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The Palace of Rogues #5
You Were Made to Be Mine: The Palace of Rogues
"I am in awe of her talent."— Julia Quinn
In the fifth installment of USA Today bestselling author Julie Anne Long’s charming Palace of Rogues series, a rakish spy finds more than he bargained for in his pursuit of an earl’s enchanting runaway fiancée.
The Find the Earl of Brundage’s runaway fiancée in exchange for a fortune. Child’s play for legendary British former spymaster, Christian Hawkes. The catch? Hawkes knows in his bones that Brundage is the traitor to England who landed him in a brutal French prison. Hawkes is destitute, the earl is desperate, and a bargain is struck.
Fleeing a savagely shattered dream, the sheltered Lady Aurelie Capet finds refuge in an alias and the warmth and kindness of the Grand Palace on the Thames—until a gorgeous, mysterious disturbance to her peace literally topples through the door.
An unexpected, fierce desire that feels destined, dangerous—and devastatingly sweet—ignites between the sheltered beauty and the jaded spy, and as they slowly unravel each other's shocking secrets Hawkes closes in on the truth about the earl. Soon it’s clear they can have no future without vanquishing the Hawkes knows that loving her means avenging her. Aurelie knows that loving Hawkes means freeing him to do that, no matter the cost.
In the fifth installment of USA Today bestselling author Julie Anne Long’s charming Palace of Rogues series, a rakish spy finds more than he bargained for in his pursuit of an earl’s enchanting runaway fiancée.
The Find the Earl of Brundage’s runaway fiancée in exchange for a fortune. Child’s play for legendary British former spymaster, Christian Hawkes. The catch? Hawkes knows in his bones that Brundage is the traitor to England who landed him in a brutal French prison. Hawkes is destitute, the earl is desperate, and a bargain is struck.
Fleeing a savagely shattered dream, the sheltered Lady Aurelie Capet finds refuge in an alias and the warmth and kindness of the Grand Palace on the Thames—until a gorgeous, mysterious disturbance to her peace literally topples through the door.
An unexpected, fierce desire that feels destined, dangerous—and devastatingly sweet—ignites between the sheltered beauty and the jaded spy, and as they slowly unravel each other's shocking secrets Hawkes closes in on the truth about the earl. Soon it’s clear they can have no future without vanquishing the Hawkes knows that loving her means avenging her. Aurelie knows that loving Hawkes means freeing him to do that, no matter the cost.
Audible Audio
First published June 28, 2022
About the author
Julie Anne Long
38 books3,035 followersWell, where should I start? I've lived in San Francisco for more than a decade, usually with at least one cat. I won the school spelling bee when I was in 7th grade; the word that clinched it was 'ukulele.' I originally set out to be a rock star when I grew up (I had a Bono fixation, but who didn't?), and I have the guitars and the questionable wardrobe stuffed in the back of my closet to prove it.
But writing was always my first love.
I was editor of my elementary school paper (believe it or not, Mrs. Little's fifth grade class at Glenmoor Elementary did have one); my high school paper (along with my best high school bud, Cindy Jorgenson); and my college paper, where our long-suffering typesetter finally forced me to learn how to typeset because my articles were usually late (and thus I probably have him to thank for all the desktop publishing jobs that ensued over the years).
Won a couple of random awards along the way: the Bank of America English Award in High School (which basically just amounted to a fancy plaque saying that I was really, really good at English); and an award for best Sports Feature article in a College Newspaper (and anyone who knows me well understands how deeply ironic that is). I began my academic career as a Journalism major; I switched to Creative Writing, which was a more comfortable fit for my freewheeling imagination and overdeveloped sense of whimsy. I dreamed of being a novelist.
But most of us, I think, tend to take for granted the things that come easily to us. I loved writing and all indications were that I was pretty good at it, but I, thank you very much, wanted to be a rock star. Which turned out to be ever-so-slightly harder to do than writing. A lot more equipment was involved, that's for sure. Heavy things, with knobs. It also involved late nights, fetid, graffiti-sprayed practice rooms, gorgeous flakey boys, bizarre gigs, in-fighting—what's not to love?
But my dream of being a published writer never faded. When the charm (ahem) of playing to four people in a tiny club at midnight on a Wednesday finally wore thin, however, I realized I could incorporate all the best things about being in a band — namely, drama, passion, and men with unruly hair — into novels, while at the same time indulging my love of history and research.
So I wrote The Runaway Duke, sent it to a literary agent (see the story here), who sold it to Warner Books a few months after that...which made 2003 one of the most extraordinary, head-spinning years I've ever had.
Why romance? Well, like most people, I read across many genres, but I've been an avid romance reader since I got in trouble for sneaking a Rosemary Rogers novel out of my mom's nightstand drawer (I think it was Sweet Savage Love). Rosemary Rogers, Kathleen Woodiwiss, Laurie McBain...I cut my romance teeth on those ladies. And in general, I take a visceral sort of pleasure in creating a hero and a heroine, putting them through their emotional paces, and watching their relationship develop on the page. And of course, there's much to be said for the happy ending. :)
And why Regency Historicals? Well, for starters, I think we can blame Jane Austen. Her inimitable wit, compassion and vision brought the Regency vividly to life for generations of readers. If Jane Austen had written romances about Incas, for instance, I think, we'd have racks and racks of Inca romances in bookstores all over the country, and Warner Forever would be the Inca Romance line.
But I'm a history FREAK, in general. I read more history, to be perfectly honest, than fiction (when I have time to read!) these days. When we were little, my sister and I used to play "Littl
But writing was always my first love.
I was editor of my elementary school paper (believe it or not, Mrs. Little's fifth grade class at Glenmoor Elementary did have one); my high school paper (along with my best high school bud, Cindy Jorgenson); and my college paper, where our long-suffering typesetter finally forced me to learn how to typeset because my articles were usually late (and thus I probably have him to thank for all the desktop publishing jobs that ensued over the years).
Won a couple of random awards along the way: the Bank of America English Award in High School (which basically just amounted to a fancy plaque saying that I was really, really good at English); and an award for best Sports Feature article in a College Newspaper (and anyone who knows me well understands how deeply ironic that is). I began my academic career as a Journalism major; I switched to Creative Writing, which was a more comfortable fit for my freewheeling imagination and overdeveloped sense of whimsy. I dreamed of being a novelist.
But most of us, I think, tend to take for granted the things that come easily to us. I loved writing and all indications were that I was pretty good at it, but I, thank you very much, wanted to be a rock star. Which turned out to be ever-so-slightly harder to do than writing. A lot more equipment was involved, that's for sure. Heavy things, with knobs. It also involved late nights, fetid, graffiti-sprayed practice rooms, gorgeous flakey boys, bizarre gigs, in-fighting—what's not to love?
But my dream of being a published writer never faded. When the charm (ahem) of playing to four people in a tiny club at midnight on a Wednesday finally wore thin, however, I realized I could incorporate all the best things about being in a band — namely, drama, passion, and men with unruly hair — into novels, while at the same time indulging my love of history and research.
So I wrote The Runaway Duke, sent it to a literary agent (see the story here), who sold it to Warner Books a few months after that...which made 2003 one of the most extraordinary, head-spinning years I've ever had.
Why romance? Well, like most people, I read across many genres, but I've been an avid romance reader since I got in trouble for sneaking a Rosemary Rogers novel out of my mom's nightstand drawer (I think it was Sweet Savage Love). Rosemary Rogers, Kathleen Woodiwiss, Laurie McBain...I cut my romance teeth on those ladies. And in general, I take a visceral sort of pleasure in creating a hero and a heroine, putting them through their emotional paces, and watching their relationship develop on the page. And of course, there's much to be said for the happy ending. :)
And why Regency Historicals? Well, for starters, I think we can blame Jane Austen. Her inimitable wit, compassion and vision brought the Regency vividly to life for generations of readers. If Jane Austen had written romances about Incas, for instance, I think, we'd have racks and racks of Inca romances in bookstores all over the country, and Warner Forever would be the Inca Romance line.
But I'm a history FREAK, in general. I read more history, to be perfectly honest, than fiction (when I have time to read!) these days. When we were little, my sister and I used to play "Littl
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 434 reviews
July 8, 2022
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Hawkes was nearly destitute. He'd been obliged to surrender the entirety of his own hard-won fortune to French authorities before he went to prison---it was either that, or face execution by firing squad.
Christian Hawkes has been free less than a week after serving three years in a French prison for his role as a British spymaster. He has the feeling that he was given up and he has his eye on the Earl of Brundage, the very man that negotiated for Hawkes to keep his life over his fortune. In a twist, Brundage has requested Hawkes help, calling on that favor Brundage thinks Hawkes owes him for saving his life. Brundage's fiancée has fled and Brundage wants Hawkes to put his skills to use to find her, in return, Brundage will pay back Hawkes some of his fortune. Hawkes takes the job as it will allow him more access and opportunity to search out if and how Brundage might of betrayed Hawkes and England.
How ironic that she'd been obliged to plunge blindly into the world the very moment she'd been made brutally aware that she knew almost nothing about it.
Lady Aurelie Capet lost her parents and older brother to the bloody French Revolution and while she still has another brother, he lives in Boston. Her guardian may have kept her well feed and clothed, he's never been attentive, so when the Earl of Brundage asks her to marry him, she thinks she's finally going to get the family she's been missing. When her eyes get horribly opened, Aurelie flees and is on the run to England and from there to try and book passage to Boston. A jaded former spy working for his possible enemy and a naïve sheltered woman having to suddenly learn the ways of the world and discovering she's stronger than she ever imagined.
Men could do such terrible harm.
And yet it was clear they could love so powerfully well.
She was glad she now knew.
If you're not a frequent reader of The Palace of the Rogues series, jumping in here at book five would not be a good idea. The Grand Palace on the Thames is where Aurelie ends up and as so, Hawkes soon follows. The inn and it's occupants, the Hardys, Bolts, Dot, and guests usually have a strong showing in the series books and that goes doubly here. I've read all the books in the series and have started to itch for a new setting, so when a lot of the first half felt more about the inn, I was very restless. If you tried to pick this up here, you obviously would find the setting and these characters fresh but I'm not sure you'd care about them, as you'd miss their emotional background. The inn and the plot about Hawkes searching, trying to learn about Brundage's involvement in his imprisonment and how it could all tie-in to treason was a large chunk of the story, to the point that I would be tempted to call this more a money laundering and treason mystery more than a romance.
But never had a woman affected him as though she were the weather. As though he could feel her in his bones, like an ache, and on his skin, like sunshine or a breeze.
If you're a get to it reader, you're going to need patience in this one, Aurelie and Hawkes don't meet until around 30%, he knows who she is, she doesn't, and I'd say the romance doesn't really get going until around 60%. There was almost too much time spent on in their head characterization, the vast majority of story is told from Aurelie and Hawkes heads and how they feel and think in almost lyrical/flowery prose. I'd also have to say their relationship foundation is instalove, Hawkes sees Aurelie for the first time and he's already thinking she's the one. I felt like I read about two people separately falling in love instead of together, if that makes any sense. It's around 70% that Aurelie learns who Hawkes is and how he fits into the whole picture with Brundage and when she again goes on the run and Hawke catches up to her, there's about 10% of them just spending time together. Time I would have loved to have seen much earlier in the book, especially since they just seem to already be in love and this is more about showing their bedroom scene and trying to get an emotional scene from Aurelie that instead came off very forced.
“You have found me, Mr. Hawkes.”
And at first, he seemed unable to speak. He was drinking in the sight of her wonderingly.
“I think I would follow you the ends of the earth.” He said it gently. Almost wryly.
Even though a lot is shown through their head talk, I'm still not sure I got a firm handle on who Aurelie was, she was sheltered and made a naive mistake of trusting the wrong man but she was all so ethereal in her essence in the story, I couldn't really see her. It was also around 30% that it's mostly made clear as to why she ran from Brundage and while the scene isn't action shown, she clearly has trauma from it and when she and Hawkes spend that alone time together later in the book, she discusses it and some of what physically happened to her.
This was a miss for me with the romance, the Grand Palace and it's occupants took up way too much time, especially in the beginning when I'm trying to get to know and get invested in two new romance leads and their romance. The story does end with a knock on the door, so we're obviously going to be staying, I just hope the new couple and their romance gets to take center stage.
Hawkes was nearly destitute. He'd been obliged to surrender the entirety of his own hard-won fortune to French authorities before he went to prison---it was either that, or face execution by firing squad.
Christian Hawkes has been free less than a week after serving three years in a French prison for his role as a British spymaster. He has the feeling that he was given up and he has his eye on the Earl of Brundage, the very man that negotiated for Hawkes to keep his life over his fortune. In a twist, Brundage has requested Hawkes help, calling on that favor Brundage thinks Hawkes owes him for saving his life. Brundage's fiancée has fled and Brundage wants Hawkes to put his skills to use to find her, in return, Brundage will pay back Hawkes some of his fortune. Hawkes takes the job as it will allow him more access and opportunity to search out if and how Brundage might of betrayed Hawkes and England.
How ironic that she'd been obliged to plunge blindly into the world the very moment she'd been made brutally aware that she knew almost nothing about it.
Lady Aurelie Capet lost her parents and older brother to the bloody French Revolution and while she still has another brother, he lives in Boston. Her guardian may have kept her well feed and clothed, he's never been attentive, so when the Earl of Brundage asks her to marry him, she thinks she's finally going to get the family she's been missing. When her eyes get horribly opened, Aurelie flees and is on the run to England and from there to try and book passage to Boston. A jaded former spy working for his possible enemy and a naïve sheltered woman having to suddenly learn the ways of the world and discovering she's stronger than she ever imagined.
Men could do such terrible harm.
And yet it was clear they could love so powerfully well.
She was glad she now knew.
If you're not a frequent reader of The Palace of the Rogues series, jumping in here at book five would not be a good idea. The Grand Palace on the Thames is where Aurelie ends up and as so, Hawkes soon follows. The inn and it's occupants, the Hardys, Bolts, Dot, and guests usually have a strong showing in the series books and that goes doubly here. I've read all the books in the series and have started to itch for a new setting, so when a lot of the first half felt more about the inn, I was very restless. If you tried to pick this up here, you obviously would find the setting and these characters fresh but I'm not sure you'd care about them, as you'd miss their emotional background. The inn and the plot about Hawkes searching, trying to learn about Brundage's involvement in his imprisonment and how it could all tie-in to treason was a large chunk of the story, to the point that I would be tempted to call this more a money laundering and treason mystery more than a romance.
But never had a woman affected him as though she were the weather. As though he could feel her in his bones, like an ache, and on his skin, like sunshine or a breeze.
If you're a get to it reader, you're going to need patience in this one, Aurelie and Hawkes don't meet until around 30%, he knows who she is, she doesn't, and I'd say the romance doesn't really get going until around 60%. There was almost too much time spent on in their head characterization, the vast majority of story is told from Aurelie and Hawkes heads and how they feel and think in almost lyrical/flowery prose. I'd also have to say their relationship foundation is instalove, Hawkes sees Aurelie for the first time and he's already thinking she's the one. I felt like I read about two people separately falling in love instead of together, if that makes any sense. It's around 70% that Aurelie learns who Hawkes is and how he fits into the whole picture with Brundage and when she again goes on the run and Hawke catches up to her, there's about 10% of them just spending time together. Time I would have loved to have seen much earlier in the book, especially since they just seem to already be in love and this is more about showing their bedroom scene and trying to get an emotional scene from Aurelie that instead came off very forced.
“You have found me, Mr. Hawkes.”
And at first, he seemed unable to speak. He was drinking in the sight of her wonderingly.
“I think I would follow you the ends of the earth.” He said it gently. Almost wryly.
Even though a lot is shown through their head talk, I'm still not sure I got a firm handle on who Aurelie was, she was sheltered and made a naive mistake of trusting the wrong man but she was all so ethereal in her essence in the story, I couldn't really see her. It was also around 30% that it's mostly made clear as to why she ran from Brundage and while the scene isn't action shown, she clearly has trauma from it and when she and Hawkes spend that alone time together later in the book, she discusses it and some of what physically happened to her.
This was a miss for me with the romance, the Grand Palace and it's occupants took up way too much time, especially in the beginning when I'm trying to get to know and get invested in two new romance leads and their romance. The story does end with a knock on the door, so we're obviously going to be staying, I just hope the new couple and their romance gets to take center stage.
June 29, 2022
ARC Provided by Edelweiss and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
DNF.
Wish I knew there would be a trigger. Realized about a third into the book.
What I did read was slow and very wordy.
The hero and heroine do not meet till about a third into the book.
A lot going on.
And once I found the trigger I couldn't go any further. This is a big no in my romance reading.
Again wish that there was a warning.
I have found this authors past books to be slow and have had difficulty to stay engaged/interested in the story. This was no different. This almost reads as women's fiction then romance.
I think that I'm done reading this authors books, they aren't for me.
DNF.
Wish I knew there would be a trigger. Realized about a third into the book.
What I did read was slow and very wordy.
The hero and heroine do not meet till about a third into the book.
A lot going on.
And once I found the trigger I couldn't go any further. This is a big no in my romance reading.
Again wish that there was a warning.
I have found this authors past books to be slow and have had difficulty to stay engaged/interested in the story. This was no different. This almost reads as women's fiction then romance.
I think that I'm done reading this authors books, they aren't for me.
March 4, 2026
Slightly shy of 5 stars, but not enough to matter
Chapter one introduced a villain, an English earl and Paris-based diplomat, so slimy he practically oozed from the page, looking to hire his former attaché to find his missing fiancé. The attaché, who not coincidentally moonlighted as an English spymaster during the war, was just released from a three year sentence in a French prison for espionage and was staring at the man he knew put him there. Christian Hawkes, simmering with hatred, toyed with the earl the way a cat plays with a rat, then took the job.
By the time Hawkes finds the fiancé, Aurelie, hiding behind an alias at The Grand Palace on the Thames, he suspects she had a good reason for fleeing from the earl. And boy, does she ever.
The author does an about-face in this fifth book of the series, and gives the reader a complicated plot and a straightforward love story. Highlights include the lovably familiar cast of scarily unique—yes, I’m looking at you, Delacorte—long-term residents and staff of The Palace, including a guest appearance by the Duke of Falkirk, Long’s usual sparkling hilarious or sensually rich writing, and two admirable main characters who waste no time recognizing the other half of their souls when they meet.
Here’s a strange twist: I’m rating it a tiny fraction under 5 stars because the hero is possibly too perfect. Look at me, being all jaded and cynical. But Hawkes never, ever said or did the wrong thing and no guy was ever THAT good.
Chapter one introduced a villain, an English earl and Paris-based diplomat, so slimy he practically oozed from the page, looking to hire his former attaché to find his missing fiancé. The attaché, who not coincidentally moonlighted as an English spymaster during the war, was just released from a three year sentence in a French prison for espionage and was staring at the man he knew put him there. Christian Hawkes, simmering with hatred, toyed with the earl the way a cat plays with a rat, then took the job.
By the time Hawkes finds the fiancé, Aurelie, hiding behind an alias at The Grand Palace on the Thames, he suspects she had a good reason for fleeing from the earl. And boy, does she ever.
The author does an about-face in this fifth book of the series, and gives the reader a complicated plot and a straightforward love story. Highlights include the lovably familiar cast of scarily unique—yes, I’m looking at you, Delacorte—long-term residents and staff of The Palace, including a guest appearance by the Duke of Falkirk, Long’s usual sparkling hilarious or sensually rich writing, and two admirable main characters who waste no time recognizing the other half of their souls when they meet.
Here’s a strange twist: I’m rating it a tiny fraction under 5 stars because the hero is possibly too perfect. Look at me, being all jaded and cynical. But Hawkes never, ever said or did the wrong thing and no guy was ever THAT good.
May 3, 2022
I think this will be another well-loved addition to the Julie Anne Long lexicon. And, indeed, it checks all the boxes with leads worth rooting for and a rewarding conclusion. I just don’t think it stands out when in comparison to some of my favorites by JAL, which admittedly are a tough act to follow.
The first chapter was really solid. Christian Hawkes quickly conveyed an intriguing, highly skilled and charismatic character. It also showed that this story was set to spend less time at the Grand Palace on the Thames than its predecessors did. I thought this was a good move, because while familiar characters that have featured in each of the previous books in the series are featured again, they do not overwhelm. Hawkes, fresh out of a French prison, after serving time for espionage, is hired to track down the Earl of Brundage’s fiancé. Brundage is a figure of Hawkes past, who Hawkes suspects has criminal dealings, while fashioning himself a friend and hero.
Aurelie is on the run. She is traveling as a widow and is trying to find her way to her brother in Boston. She has found refuge at the Grand Palace, while getting her passage secured. She has planned her flight well, but her amateur subterfuge is no match to a seasoned spy. Hawkes tracks her to the palace and suffers a life-threatening attack before passing out as he enters the palace. Uproar ensues and a bit of mistaken identity has Aurelie helping to nurse Hawkes back to health.
The romantic connection was believable. It did take a while for the romance to progress, but it fit the story. The characters were built up and the plot made sense. It ultimately is a very solid romance. I think it might be that solidness that made this one not work quite so well as some of her others. JAL has convinced me of second chances, that flawed characters are worthy of love, love triangles can lead to convincing love stories, and of pairings that don’t work on paper. This one just felt safer in that respect, less messy. It’s not that this was without trauma or drama (content warning: ), but it did feel glossed over and easier. I would say that was also my hesitation with the much-loved book 4 in the series. Too solid. Not much of a complaint, is it?
In conclusion, this was an enjoyable read with a convincing romance. JAL continues to prove she’s among the best out there. I am certainly looking forward to what she does next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book. Views are my own.
The first chapter was really solid. Christian Hawkes quickly conveyed an intriguing, highly skilled and charismatic character. It also showed that this story was set to spend less time at the Grand Palace on the Thames than its predecessors did. I thought this was a good move, because while familiar characters that have featured in each of the previous books in the series are featured again, they do not overwhelm. Hawkes, fresh out of a French prison, after serving time for espionage, is hired to track down the Earl of Brundage’s fiancé. Brundage is a figure of Hawkes past, who Hawkes suspects has criminal dealings, while fashioning himself a friend and hero.
Aurelie is on the run. She is traveling as a widow and is trying to find her way to her brother in Boston. She has found refuge at the Grand Palace, while getting her passage secured. She has planned her flight well, but her amateur subterfuge is no match to a seasoned spy. Hawkes tracks her to the palace and suffers a life-threatening attack before passing out as he enters the palace. Uproar ensues and a bit of mistaken identity has Aurelie helping to nurse Hawkes back to health.
The romantic connection was believable. It did take a while for the romance to progress, but it fit the story. The characters were built up and the plot made sense. It ultimately is a very solid romance. I think it might be that solidness that made this one not work quite so well as some of her others. JAL has convinced me of second chances, that flawed characters are worthy of love, love triangles can lead to convincing love stories, and of pairings that don’t work on paper. This one just felt safer in that respect, less messy. It’s not that this was without trauma or drama (content warning: ), but it did feel glossed over and easier. I would say that was also my hesitation with the much-loved book 4 in the series. Too solid. Not much of a complaint, is it?
In conclusion, this was an enjoyable read with a convincing romance. JAL continues to prove she’s among the best out there. I am certainly looking forward to what she does next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book. Views are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2022
The newest entry in the Palace of Rogues series is a poignant love story between two people coming to terms with the fact that the world is not the safe place it might seem to be. Of course, they are able to heal from their past trauma in part because they are staying at the Grand Palace on the Thames, the most comfortable, welcoming, tough love boarding house in London - aka TGPOTT as immortalized on some commemorative handkerchiefs.
As a romance, this is a slow (slooooow) burn of a relationship. Aurelie is escaping from her fiance (check CW on this one), while Hawkes was released from prison by said fiance with the express purpose of locating her. Hawkes is a former spymaster, so he's the perfect person to locate a missing woman... except that Brundage, her fiance, is likely the man who put Hawkes in prison, bankrupted him, and betrayed the Crown in the process. Hawkes's investigation leads him not just to Aurelie, but also uncovers the reason why she fled in the first place.
While their relationship is based on their shared understanding of pain (and thus full of external angst), the inhabitants of TGPOTT provide a soft landing place for them both. As a part of a series, this book shines, with plenty of fan service for longtime readers (we learn that Captain Hardy gets dressed trousers first, while Lord Bolt pulls on his shirt before anything else). Julie Anne Long's humor is also on display, which is a welcome counterpoint to the heart piercingly tender courtship between Aurelie and Hawkes. It's a book that both rips out your heart but also gently puts it back together for you.
CW: Rape (not between hero and heroine), violence.
30-Word Summaries:
Meg: In a world where no one can escape danger or harm, there’s one place where everyone can look for sanctuary: The Grand Palace on the Thames, land of devoted husbands.
Laine: [SPOILER WARNING and sung to the tune of Hall & Oates “Rich Girl”]
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
As a romance, this is a slow (slooooow) burn of a relationship. Aurelie is escaping from her fiance (check CW on this one), while Hawkes was released from prison by said fiance with the express purpose of locating her. Hawkes is a former spymaster, so he's the perfect person to locate a missing woman... except that Brundage, her fiance, is likely the man who put Hawkes in prison, bankrupted him, and betrayed the Crown in the process. Hawkes's investigation leads him not just to Aurelie, but also uncovers the reason why she fled in the first place.
While their relationship is based on their shared understanding of pain (and thus full of external angst), the inhabitants of TGPOTT provide a soft landing place for them both. As a part of a series, this book shines, with plenty of fan service for longtime readers (we learn that Captain Hardy gets dressed trousers first, while Lord Bolt pulls on his shirt before anything else). Julie Anne Long's humor is also on display, which is a welcome counterpoint to the heart piercingly tender courtship between Aurelie and Hawkes. It's a book that both rips out your heart but also gently puts it back together for you.
CW: Rape (not between hero and heroine), violence.
30-Word Summaries:
Meg: In a world where no one can escape danger or harm, there’s one place where everyone can look for sanctuary: The Grand Palace on the Thames, land of devoted husbands.
Laine: [SPOILER WARNING and sung to the tune of Hall & Oates “Rich Girl”]
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
July 1, 2022
“Like a magician, he turned her knees to smoke, and the room into a whirlpool, and the kiss into a world.”
Swoon and sigh. This was lovely. A little more plot- than character-driven, and pivoted on some heavy themes, but beautifully written as always and full of Grand Palace on the Thames ensemble cast goodness.
Content notes: rape (past but revisited on page), death of family (past), imprisonment (past but revisited on page), threat of physical violence (on page), blood and a knife wound (on page).
Swoon and sigh. This was lovely. A little more plot- than character-driven, and pivoted on some heavy themes, but beautifully written as always and full of Grand Palace on the Thames ensemble cast goodness.
Content notes: rape (past but revisited on page), death of family (past), imprisonment (past but revisited on page), threat of physical violence (on page), blood and a knife wound (on page).
June 14, 2022
And they both knew that if either of them should ever wake up in the middle of the night, crying out in terror or anger, fighting off the grip of a memory, they would not be alone. They would always be loved. They would always be heard. Forever
TW: SA
If you, like me, are a consistent HR reader, do not go into this expecting a traditional historical romance. This is more historical fiction with a romance subplot.
There are a couple of reasons for this: being the fifth in a series, there were many secondary characters that featured much more heavily than I would have expected. The hero and heroine did not even meet until 36% of the way through the book, and although there was tension and flirting, they did not officially get together until a little after the 80% mark, and the remaining conflict was unrelated to romance--which in general I prefer.
Aurelie and Christian both have their own, somewhat parallel goals, and both work together and independently to achieve these.
Ultimately, I found this to be a fun book, if more quirky than I originally expected.
Personally, I love a good revenge fantasy, and Hawkes beating the ever-living shit out of Aurelie's rapist was very satisfying.
________________________________
Initial review: This book was irritating at first because I was expecting a traditional historical romance structure. Once I realized this was more of a quirky tale of espionage and endurance with a romance subplot--and adjusted my expectations accordingly--I really enjoyed this.
July 25, 2023
At this point I can not choose a favorite book in this series between 5 and 6. This was an absolute delight and I can't recommend it enough!!
Protective hero, espionage, found family. Just perfect.
TW: off page SA, execution mentioned
Protective hero, espionage, found family. Just perfect.
TW: off page SA, execution mentioned
April 3, 2026
I call this book "How The Grand Palace on the Thames Got Its First Footman."
Paris, 1820. MMC Christian Hawkes, a former English spy, has just been released from a French prison by the very Englishman he believes had him incarcerated – The Earl of Brundage. The Earl’s fiancé has gone missing, and Hawkes is the only man Brundage knows that can find her. And the Earl is willing to pay handsomely for her return. Mostly because she took with her an expensive emerald necklace Brundage gave her but has not yet paid for it.
FMC 21-year-old Aurelie Capet escaped from her French guardian’s home while he was away on his honeymoon. Brundage is certain Aurelie’s lady’s maid Madame Aubert facilitated in his fiancé’s departure and tells Hawkes, “The woman was of course summarily dealt with.” This statement, among others, tells the reader that Brundage is a bully. A real dou***bag, and so far an unconfirmed traitor to England. Even though Brundage arranged for Hawkes’ release from prison, Christian still doesn’t like him. At all. One of the best parts of the first chapter is when Hawkes encounters Benjamin Pike, a servant to Brundage, on his way out of the Earl’s house. Pike is a character this reader will never forget.
Meanwhile, Lady Aurelie has donned a new persona – that of Mrs. Mary Gallagher and has landed at The Grand Palace on the Thames. Which is where Hawkes eventually finds her after almost being killed himself. (While investigating Brundage’s dealings and smugglings with the French, Hawkes becomes endangered when he steals two account books from the Earl’s financial firm.) When Christian Hawkes staggers bloodied into the Inn and collapses to the floor, Dot launches a scream that dominoes the other maids into screaming and swooning. A shirtless Capt. Hardy and pants less Lord Bolt vault over the banister armed to make sure their wives are safe. These two heroes are more active in this book than the previous two. And thanks to their assistance, the villain ultimately receives his comeuppance. (Because I don't think Christian Hawkes could have accomplished it on his own.)
Over the remaining chapters, the residents and owners of TGPOTT learn that Christian Hawkes is not the new tenant they thought he was – a vicar named Mr. Bellingham. Hawkes receives medical care and is left to be watched over by Aurelie (Mrs. Gallagher.) When he recovers, Hawkes remains at TGPOTT, confirms his suspicions that Mrs. Gallagher is in fact Aurelie Capet, gets to know her, follows and guards her, and eventually falls in love.
This story holds more mystery and suspense than romance, which is different from the previous books. And it was fun to read all the puzzle pieces the author fits together to bring the story alive. And the ending? Chef’s kiss. This author is amazing and I couldn’t wait to begin the next book in the series.
But... back to the first sentence of this review: Since the Inn had expanded, the proprietresses had been interviewing men for a footman position. Prior to the arrival of Christian Hawkes, they had not been successful. Until the end of the book. The man they hire is
“well-spoken, tall enough to reach the sconces, had proven himself brave and resourceful, able to hold a very righteous grudge, could competently read and write, never wanted to work for an earl again, liked a bit of a challenge, the sea air, possessed a fine wit, calm presence, years of excellent experience, a trust-inspiring deference and clear respect for women, shoulders for miles, very fine gray eyes, and was regrettably unequivocally handsome, from all angles.”
This reader truly hopes that Ben, Dot, and Delacorte will get their own books in the future.
Overall, this was a solid four-star novel.
Paris, 1820. MMC Christian Hawkes, a former English spy, has just been released from a French prison by the very Englishman he believes had him incarcerated – The Earl of Brundage. The Earl’s fiancé has gone missing, and Hawkes is the only man Brundage knows that can find her. And the Earl is willing to pay handsomely for her return. Mostly because she took with her an expensive emerald necklace Brundage gave her but has not yet paid for it.
FMC 21-year-old Aurelie Capet escaped from her French guardian’s home while he was away on his honeymoon. Brundage is certain Aurelie’s lady’s maid Madame Aubert facilitated in his fiancé’s departure and tells Hawkes, “The woman was of course summarily dealt with.” This statement, among others, tells the reader that Brundage is a bully. A real dou***bag, and so far an unconfirmed traitor to England. Even though Brundage arranged for Hawkes’ release from prison, Christian still doesn’t like him. At all. One of the best parts of the first chapter is when Hawkes encounters Benjamin Pike, a servant to Brundage, on his way out of the Earl’s house. Pike is a character this reader will never forget.
Meanwhile, Lady Aurelie has donned a new persona – that of Mrs. Mary Gallagher and has landed at The Grand Palace on the Thames. Which is where Hawkes eventually finds her after almost being killed himself. (While investigating Brundage’s dealings and smugglings with the French, Hawkes becomes endangered when he steals two account books from the Earl’s financial firm.) When Christian Hawkes staggers bloodied into the Inn and collapses to the floor, Dot launches a scream that dominoes the other maids into screaming and swooning. A shirtless Capt. Hardy and pants less Lord Bolt vault over the banister armed to make sure their wives are safe. These two heroes are more active in this book than the previous two. And thanks to their assistance, the villain ultimately receives his comeuppance. (Because I don't think Christian Hawkes could have accomplished it on his own.)
Over the remaining chapters, the residents and owners of TGPOTT learn that Christian Hawkes is not the new tenant they thought he was – a vicar named Mr. Bellingham. Hawkes receives medical care and is left to be watched over by Aurelie (Mrs. Gallagher.) When he recovers, Hawkes remains at TGPOTT, confirms his suspicions that Mrs. Gallagher is in fact Aurelie Capet, gets to know her, follows and guards her, and eventually falls in love.
This story holds more mystery and suspense than romance, which is different from the previous books. And it was fun to read all the puzzle pieces the author fits together to bring the story alive. And the ending? Chef’s kiss. This author is amazing and I couldn’t wait to begin the next book in the series.
But... back to the first sentence of this review: Since the Inn had expanded, the proprietresses had been interviewing men for a footman position. Prior to the arrival of Christian Hawkes, they had not been successful. Until the end of the book. The man they hire is
“well-spoken, tall enough to reach the sconces, had proven himself brave and resourceful, able to hold a very righteous grudge, could competently read and write, never wanted to work for an earl again, liked a bit of a challenge, the sea air, possessed a fine wit, calm presence, years of excellent experience, a trust-inspiring deference and clear respect for women, shoulders for miles, very fine gray eyes, and was regrettably unequivocally handsome, from all angles.”
This reader truly hopes that Ben, Dot, and Delacorte will get their own books in the future.
Overall, this was a solid four-star novel.
January 22, 2024
DNF at 16%
Julie Anne Long and I have had a sort of love/hate relationship over the years, and it's further cemented with this rough start. For me, YWMTBM just felt too wordy and tedious for me to really get into, while I never fully connected with the two MCs. Based on past experience, I'd guess my next book by Long will be a knockout. I cannot wait!✌🏽
*ARC provided by Netgalley, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
Julie Anne Long and I have had a sort of love/hate relationship over the years, and it's further cemented with this rough start. For me, YWMTBM just felt too wordy and tedious for me to really get into, while I never fully connected with the two MCs. Based on past experience, I'd guess my next book by Long will be a knockout. I cannot wait!✌🏽
*ARC provided by Netgalley, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
May 16, 2026
“Please be careful,” she said, her voice frayed. And what she meant was, “I love you.”
“I will,” he said. And he meant, “I love you, too.”
Another very good historical romance by Julie Anne Long, set in The Grand Palace of the Thames. As expected, I had a few issues with the spy plot, which (in my opinion) took up too much space compared to the romance. Also, while I have no problem with insta-love or lust, I have a hard time accepting the concept of soulmates. (I just don't believe in soulmates or predestination.)
I still liked the book, though, because I loved the heroes—and this time, both of them equally. However, I wish we’d learned more about Hawke’s time in prison and what happened to him there. I seem to have a certain penchant for voyeurism: When a character has experienced something terrible off-page, I don’t just want to know that something bad happened to them. I want to know exactly what happened and how they felt when it happened. I want to know everything about their emotions: the pain, the despair, the helplessness, the fear, the rage. It leaves me feeling a bit unsatisfied if I don’t get at least a little of that information.
As always, life at the Grand Palace of the Thames and its (whimsical) inhabitants play a significant role. This time, the integration felt a bit forced at first, but it settled down later. I loved Bolt’s and Hardy’s role in the book, and the Duke of Valkirk was masterfully woven into the story without even appearing in person. I'm looking forward to the next book and the new footman!
(Read in April 2026)
“I will,” he said. And he meant, “I love you, too.”
Another very good historical romance by Julie Anne Long, set in The Grand Palace of the Thames. As expected, I had a few issues with the spy plot, which (in my opinion) took up too much space compared to the romance. Also, while I have no problem with insta-love or lust, I have a hard time accepting the concept of soulmates. (I just don't believe in soulmates or predestination.)
I still liked the book, though, because I loved the heroes—and this time, both of them equally. However, I wish we’d learned more about Hawke’s time in prison and what happened to him there. I seem to have a certain penchant for voyeurism: When a character has experienced something terrible off-page, I don’t just want to know that something bad happened to them. I want to know exactly what happened and how they felt when it happened. I want to know everything about their emotions: the pain, the despair, the helplessness, the fear, the rage. It leaves me feeling a bit unsatisfied if I don’t get at least a little of that information.
As always, life at the Grand Palace of the Thames and its (whimsical) inhabitants play a significant role. This time, the integration felt a bit forced at first, but it settled down later. I loved Bolt’s and Hardy’s role in the book, and the Duke of Valkirk was masterfully woven into the story without even appearing in person. I'm looking forward to the next book and the new footman!
(Read in April 2026)
December 3, 2022
You Were Made To Be Mine by Julie Anne Long was such a brilliant story and I had such a fun time with this one. I bounced back and forth between the audiobook and the ebook and both were such solid forms in reading this story. I did find this one the easiest to get into in comparison to the other books in the series. I really just jumped into this one, even though I haven't read the previous two books. What I like about these books is that you can easily read these as standalones if you wanted to.
You Were Made To Be Mine starts off with our hero, Christian Hawkes, who is out for revenge for the man who put him in prison, but he needs time so he willingly offers his services as a investigator to find the man's lost fiancee who has disappeared. Christian goes on the hunt for Aurelie, who has run away from her fiancee when it was proven her life might be in danger. She is under a secret identity, hiding in the palace of rogues until she can find a way to find passage on a ship to America to be with her brother. But then a mysterious stranger, who ends up knifed arrives on their doorstep, and Aurelie having felt a connection to him, reaches out to him to tend his wounds and that connection only blossoms. But when the truth comes out, will the hero being able to prove his sincerity of intentions to Aurelie?
You Were Made To Be Mine was a super romance and I had such a blast with this one here. You won't be able to get enough of this one. If you are a JAL lover, then this will have a solid turnout for you in every way. I have really enjoyed the theme of the series and seeing how this story came together was so wondrous. There was such gentle moments that delivered in its poignant vibe that was so beautifully portrayed. There is something about spies that this author does so well. I really enjoyed how our hero and heroine come together and their journey was so satisfying. Definitely a story I am glad that I was able to pick up.
Overall I found You Were Made To Be Mine to be a fulfilling romance that was endearing and romantically sweet!
You Were Made To Be Mine starts off with our hero, Christian Hawkes, who is out for revenge for the man who put him in prison, but he needs time so he willingly offers his services as a investigator to find the man's lost fiancee who has disappeared. Christian goes on the hunt for Aurelie, who has run away from her fiancee when it was proven her life might be in danger. She is under a secret identity, hiding in the palace of rogues until she can find a way to find passage on a ship to America to be with her brother. But then a mysterious stranger, who ends up knifed arrives on their doorstep, and Aurelie having felt a connection to him, reaches out to him to tend his wounds and that connection only blossoms. But when the truth comes out, will the hero being able to prove his sincerity of intentions to Aurelie?
You Were Made To Be Mine was a super romance and I had such a blast with this one here. You won't be able to get enough of this one. If you are a JAL lover, then this will have a solid turnout for you in every way. I have really enjoyed the theme of the series and seeing how this story came together was so wondrous. There was such gentle moments that delivered in its poignant vibe that was so beautifully portrayed. There is something about spies that this author does so well. I really enjoyed how our hero and heroine come together and their journey was so satisfying. Definitely a story I am glad that I was able to pick up.
Overall I found You Were Made To Be Mine to be a fulfilling romance that was endearing and romantically sweet!
June 29, 2022
By far my least favorite of the series. There was insta love and purple prose, way more telling than showing. The characters were one dimensional. There was no progression of their relationship it was just pretty full blown right off the bat. And the heroine was superlative at knowing exactly what this strange man was thinking and feeling because she was beautiful, brave and perfect. It seemed like very little actually happened in the book. Not many scenes of life at the Grand Palace.
Read instead this author’s What I Did with a Duke to see a couple fall in love in front of your eyes.
Read instead this author’s What I Did with a Duke to see a couple fall in love in front of your eyes.
May 13, 2026
I loved this slow-burn romance about seizing your joy when you’ve been given “a box of knives.”
A courageous emigre and a hardened spy find themselves completely undone in each other’s presence- irrevocably drawn to each other from the moment of their first meeting.
This book is …
- a mission to right an unforgivable wrong,
- a blood stained handkerchief,
- a shared song in a parlor
- and the sweet savage build of stolen glances and gazes so intense they excavate the soul.
Aurelie and Hawkes’ love story is beautifully, lyrically portrayed by the deft, masterful hand of Julie Anne Long. This upcoming release in the Palace of Rogues series further cements it as a historical romance series I will cherish and read again and again and again.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC… I relished everything about this glorious romance!l
A courageous emigre and a hardened spy find themselves completely undone in each other’s presence- irrevocably drawn to each other from the moment of their first meeting.
This book is …
- a mission to right an unforgivable wrong,
- a blood stained handkerchief,
- a shared song in a parlor
- and the sweet savage build of stolen glances and gazes so intense they excavate the soul.
Aurelie and Hawkes’ love story is beautifully, lyrically portrayed by the deft, masterful hand of Julie Anne Long. This upcoming release in the Palace of Rogues series further cements it as a historical romance series I will cherish and read again and again and again.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC… I relished everything about this glorious romance!l
June 21, 2022
2.5 rounded down.
I just can't do it anymore. DNF @ 70 percent.
I just can't do it anymore. DNF @ 70 percent.
July 13, 2022
Another stunningly ridiculously amazing book by Julie Anne Long.
Emotionally intelligent characters who have made conscious choices to not allow past trauma to define their current states or their futures - the hero and heroine were truly breaths of fresh air.
Falling in love with this book is as easy as taking my next breath. 💕
Emotionally intelligent characters who have made conscious choices to not allow past trauma to define their current states or their futures - the hero and heroine were truly breaths of fresh air.
Falling in love with this book is as easy as taking my next breath. 💕
May 15, 2023
Lovely story with wounded H recognising the h who is on the run from evil OM. She's very resourceful for a 'lady' but the H knows she needs his help to defeat their mutual enemy. I liked this couple who showed kindness to others. Didn't laugh about them behind their back.
March 22, 2026
One of the most beautiful love stories I’ve ever read.
Beyond that one line, I’m having such a hard time capturing my feelings about this book, but I don’t want to leave it un-reviewed. So how about some quotes?
Aurelie (she was such a queen; kind and good and courageous and fierce):
She’d liked to imagine her parents would have approved. She could never know for certain. Unlike her brothers, she had no specific memories of them; she knew them only as a feeling as distinct as weather. It was as though their love had ignited a little hearth inside her, which burned low and eternally. Throughout her more desolately lonely days she had turned to this warmth to remind herself that she had been loved.
But she was learning new things about herself all the time. For instance, somehow she’d known how to alchemize terror and shame and rage into cold, methodical determination.
###
Her life had been pocked with violence since she was born, but today’s shock and terror had been met at once with an explosion of love and breathtaking competence. Men could do such terrible harm. And yet it was clear they could love so powerfully well. She was glad she now knew.
###
She pivoted and made for the door, then paused. “You called for your mama last night,” she said softly. She held his shocked gaze for a moment, then she arched a single eyebrow and gracefully backed from the room and closed the door.
Hawkes remained frozen, staring at the closed door. And after a moment he gave a soft, stunned laugh. If they’d been fencing, that was the moment she’d flipped the épée right out of his hand.
Hawkes (former spy, betrayed and imprisoned in France, he somehow managed to keep his heart intact, and it was a beautiful heart indeed):
The first time he saw Aurelie:
She froze. Her hand flew up to cover her heart. “Oh! Mon di—you are awake. I am so sorry!” His breath left him as though he’d been punched. He slowly, slowly lowered the lamp. He loosened, but didn’t relinquish, his hold on it. It seemed important to touch something ordinary to anchor him to earth. Wonder crescendoed into a strange sort of unspecific fury—very like he’d been captured against his will. Then receded gently again into wonder. He’d been blessed by the sight of beautiful women before, but could not recall ever before experiencing what amounted to sensual panic. As if he would be imperiled somehow if he didn’t do something about her at once. That jolt he felt was like a key turning in a lock. He instinctively knew he’d already been fundamentally altered somehow. His muscles remained tensed, absorbing her impact as if she were a rogue wave. He took a surreptitious breath.
###
It blazed in his eyes, which were a dazzling crystalline blue, like fast water dashed over rocks. They never left her face when he spoke. She was being thoroughly seen for the first time in her life, as both a person and a woman. Brundage had never looked at her this way. No one had ever looked at her this way. In this instant of epiphany, she understood that this mattered a good deal.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a romance where you don’t just read the words “I love you” but feel the love, the meant-to-be, the soulmate connection. (Bonus points, always, for the laugh out loud scenes. Mrs Pariseau and Dot were in rare form. I loved Pike’s backstory as well).
Beyond that one line, I’m having such a hard time capturing my feelings about this book, but I don’t want to leave it un-reviewed. So how about some quotes?
Aurelie (she was such a queen; kind and good and courageous and fierce):
She’d liked to imagine her parents would have approved. She could never know for certain. Unlike her brothers, she had no specific memories of them; she knew them only as a feeling as distinct as weather. It was as though their love had ignited a little hearth inside her, which burned low and eternally. Throughout her more desolately lonely days she had turned to this warmth to remind herself that she had been loved.
But she was learning new things about herself all the time. For instance, somehow she’d known how to alchemize terror and shame and rage into cold, methodical determination.
###
Her life had been pocked with violence since she was born, but today’s shock and terror had been met at once with an explosion of love and breathtaking competence. Men could do such terrible harm. And yet it was clear they could love so powerfully well. She was glad she now knew.
###
She pivoted and made for the door, then paused. “You called for your mama last night,” she said softly. She held his shocked gaze for a moment, then she arched a single eyebrow and gracefully backed from the room and closed the door.
Hawkes remained frozen, staring at the closed door. And after a moment he gave a soft, stunned laugh. If they’d been fencing, that was the moment she’d flipped the épée right out of his hand.
Hawkes (former spy, betrayed and imprisoned in France, he somehow managed to keep his heart intact, and it was a beautiful heart indeed):
The first time he saw Aurelie:
She froze. Her hand flew up to cover her heart. “Oh! Mon di—you are awake. I am so sorry!” His breath left him as though he’d been punched. He slowly, slowly lowered the lamp. He loosened, but didn’t relinquish, his hold on it. It seemed important to touch something ordinary to anchor him to earth. Wonder crescendoed into a strange sort of unspecific fury—very like he’d been captured against his will. Then receded gently again into wonder. He’d been blessed by the sight of beautiful women before, but could not recall ever before experiencing what amounted to sensual panic. As if he would be imperiled somehow if he didn’t do something about her at once. That jolt he felt was like a key turning in a lock. He instinctively knew he’d already been fundamentally altered somehow. His muscles remained tensed, absorbing her impact as if she were a rogue wave. He took a surreptitious breath.
###
It blazed in his eyes, which were a dazzling crystalline blue, like fast water dashed over rocks. They never left her face when he spoke. She was being thoroughly seen for the first time in her life, as both a person and a woman. Brundage had never looked at her this way. No one had ever looked at her this way. In this instant of epiphany, she understood that this mattered a good deal.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a romance where you don’t just read the words “I love you” but feel the love, the meant-to-be, the soulmate connection. (Bonus points, always, for the laugh out loud scenes. Mrs Pariseau and Dot were in rare form. I loved Pike’s backstory as well).
June 12, 2024
Pretty much insta-love between the leads which was just as well as they did not really meet until a third of the way in. Instead, a lot of time was devoted to the myriad of inhabitants at the Palace. As the series progresses, the number of recurrent characters grow which takes the focus away form the main couple and their storyline. Frankly, I do need a change in scenery. I never really warmed up to this series and it is starting to feel a bit like rote that not even JAL's expert writing can elevate.
I also dislike Justine Eyre's narration.
I also dislike Justine Eyre's narration.
June 26, 2022
I do not mind a slow romance, which I knew this was going to be after reading other reviews. Very quickly, it became an exercise in "learning what is getting published nowadays" since I mostly read romance novels from the mid 90s to around 2012.
A trend that I have noticed is relying heavily on perspectives outside the main characters--spending long passages or almost whole chapters from other people's POVs. I'm not opposed to this in theory--I'm sure it can be done well, though I can't think of an example. But it is jarring when you are reading from the POV of the hero and then all of the sudden some undefined narrative voice is extolling his charms to women.
This passage for example "His charm was like contraband whiskey: potent, addictive, sometimes scathing, a subversive pleasure. When he laughed, his crystalline blue eyes lit like the sun breaking through clouds. When he was furious, he could freeze a man's gizzards with a single glance." This is from a chapter based around Hawkes' 3rd person POV, but the narrative perspective is distinctly NOT the MMC--those descriptions are from someone viewing him.
So while the prose is pretty and evocative, the structure doesn't make much sense. It isn't like we commit to a distant perspective either--the narrator also slips into Hawkes' view in within paragraphs.
Maybe this is an attempt at more of a free indirect discourse like Jane Austen? But the convention of dual POV (and sticking to that primary dual POV) exists and Long doesn't seem sure if she wants to commit to the free indirect discourse's narrative voice. Instead what happens, it comes across as lazy limited POV writing.
The other side of the POV issue is the number of passages that are given over to the POV of non-main characters--again this feels like it could be innovative structurally, but here feels like laziness and lack of interest in making the dual POV convention work for this story.
This is all to say--I got up to the point where the couple FINALLY meets and then I realize that Aurelie is wearing a mauve dress. This book is set in 1820. The color mauve was famously! not invented as a chemical dye in 1856. So I DNF"d it. I'm by no means a stickler for historical accuracy, especially when it comes to social conventions, but a mistake like that just reveals to me a lack of interest in the period you are setting the book in! It seems to be more about aesthetic trapping than using the setting or conventions of the genre to explore this couple's story.
A trend that I have noticed is relying heavily on perspectives outside the main characters--spending long passages or almost whole chapters from other people's POVs. I'm not opposed to this in theory--I'm sure it can be done well, though I can't think of an example. But it is jarring when you are reading from the POV of the hero and then all of the sudden some undefined narrative voice is extolling his charms to women.
This passage for example "His charm was like contraband whiskey: potent, addictive, sometimes scathing, a subversive pleasure. When he laughed, his crystalline blue eyes lit like the sun breaking through clouds. When he was furious, he could freeze a man's gizzards with a single glance." This is from a chapter based around Hawkes' 3rd person POV, but the narrative perspective is distinctly NOT the MMC--those descriptions are from someone viewing him.
So while the prose is pretty and evocative, the structure doesn't make much sense. It isn't like we commit to a distant perspective either--the narrator also slips into Hawkes' view in within paragraphs.
Maybe this is an attempt at more of a free indirect discourse like Jane Austen? But the convention of dual POV (and sticking to that primary dual POV) exists and Long doesn't seem sure if she wants to commit to the free indirect discourse's narrative voice. Instead what happens, it comes across as lazy limited POV writing.
The other side of the POV issue is the number of passages that are given over to the POV of non-main characters--again this feels like it could be innovative structurally, but here feels like laziness and lack of interest in making the dual POV convention work for this story.
This is all to say--I got up to the point where the couple FINALLY meets and then I realize that Aurelie is wearing a mauve dress. This book is set in 1820. The color mauve was famously! not invented as a chemical dye in 1856. So I DNF"d it. I'm by no means a stickler for historical accuracy, especially when it comes to social conventions, but a mistake like that just reveals to me a lack of interest in the period you are setting the book in! It seems to be more about aesthetic trapping than using the setting or conventions of the genre to explore this couple's story.
June 26, 2022
I have loved each of the books in the Palace of Rogues series and You Were Made to be Mine was no different! The book checked off so many of my boxes and I think Aurelie and Christian’s story is my second favorite of the series. (I just love Tristan and Delilah’s story so much that Lady Derring Takes a Lover will forever be number one for me.) Please note: some aspects of the story might be triggering for readers, so please check the content warnings prior to starting.
Things to look forward to:
- Tropes like: age gap (MMC is 35 and FMC is 21), forced proximity, hidden identities, caretaker, only one bed
- I loved seeing Aurelie grow and become more confident as the book progressed. She has endured and risked so much for the chance at a better life and I really respected her grit and perseverance. Yes, she made some bad choices along the way, but given her history and level of desperation, it was understandable.
- Christian Hawkes. This starchy and clever spymaster was primed for quite the fall from the start and boy did Julie Anne Long deliver! I’m a sucker for the strong silent types, and though some of his tactics were questionable, his devotion and sense of honor were not. I did feel that his revenge/the mystery subplot overshadowed the romance a bit, but seeing Brundage get his comeuppance was very satisfying.
- Wonderful cameos from previous characters. I will always love Tristan and Delilah and there’s quite an emotional and tender scene between them in the book (as well as one featuring Lucien and Angelique). I think the author provided enough context and backstory that readers who haven’t read the previous books won’t be too lost, but I can understand the number of characters referenced and their substantial cameos might be a bit overwhelming.
I both listened to the audiobook and read the ebook of You Were Made to be Mine and Justine Eyre’s performance was wonderful. She truly elevates the story with her superb narration and I definitely recommend experiencing this series on audio! I’m still hoping that we’ll get a book for Dot before this series is over *fingers crossed*
Audiobook Review
Overall 4.5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4.5 stars
CW: sexual assault and rape (past), death of family members (past), treason, money laundering, MMC was imprisoned for 3 years after being betrayed, attempted robbery, stabbing, PTSD
*I voluntarily read and listened to a review copy of this book*
Things to look forward to:
- Tropes like: age gap (MMC is 35 and FMC is 21), forced proximity, hidden identities, caretaker, only one bed
- I loved seeing Aurelie grow and become more confident as the book progressed. She has endured and risked so much for the chance at a better life and I really respected her grit and perseverance. Yes, she made some bad choices along the way, but given her history and level of desperation, it was understandable.
- Christian Hawkes. This starchy and clever spymaster was primed for quite the fall from the start and boy did Julie Anne Long deliver! I’m a sucker for the strong silent types, and though some of his tactics were questionable, his devotion and sense of honor were not. I did feel that his revenge/the mystery subplot overshadowed the romance a bit, but seeing Brundage get his comeuppance was very satisfying.
- Wonderful cameos from previous characters. I will always love Tristan and Delilah and there’s quite an emotional and tender scene between them in the book (as well as one featuring Lucien and Angelique). I think the author provided enough context and backstory that readers who haven’t read the previous books won’t be too lost, but I can understand the number of characters referenced and their substantial cameos might be a bit overwhelming.
I both listened to the audiobook and read the ebook of You Were Made to be Mine and Justine Eyre’s performance was wonderful. She truly elevates the story with her superb narration and I definitely recommend experiencing this series on audio! I’m still hoping that we’ll get a book for Dot before this series is over *fingers crossed*
Audiobook Review
Overall 4.5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4.5 stars
CW: sexual assault and rape (past), death of family members (past), treason, money laundering, MMC was imprisoned for 3 years after being betrayed, attempted robbery, stabbing, PTSD
*I voluntarily read and listened to a review copy of this book*
July 2, 2024
I'm never going to think a Julie Anne Long book is bad—I literally don't think it's possible. So, when I say that this is one of the two weakest books in the Palace of Rogues series (the other being Angelique's story), it doesn't mean much in the grand scheme of things. I still liked it, at times loved it (especially that fantastic set piece when the new footman arrives).
In lieu of a proper review, here are some notes:
- It has possibly the most complex plot of the series, what the intrigue and alleged espionage and the thing that caused the FMC, Aurelie, to run away.
- The scene in the beginning with the MMC, Hawkes, and Aurelie's fiance, Brundage, is absolutely brilliant.
- Hawkes is hot.
- The couple doesn't meet until a third of the way through the book.
- Aurelie is not coy about the fact that she finds Hawkes hot.
- (And this is what made me drop the rating) It is a tidge instalove and even a little fated mates, the way Aurelie and Hawkes talk about their feelings--which feels like a different approach for JAL. I wonder if she ran out of space with all the other plot points going on.
- "One pence" has still not been fixed.
- The writing is still impeccable, with emotion and humor and my favorite supporting cast of characters present and correct.
So, maybe a 3.5? I could be convinced to give it a 4.
In lieu of a proper review, here are some notes:
- It has possibly the most complex plot of the series, what the intrigue and alleged espionage and the thing that caused the FMC, Aurelie, to run away.
- The scene in the beginning with the MMC, Hawkes, and Aurelie's fiance, Brundage, is absolutely brilliant.
- Hawkes is hot.
- The couple doesn't meet until a third of the way through the book.
- Aurelie is not coy about the fact that she finds Hawkes hot.
- (And this is what made me drop the rating) It is a tidge instalove and even a little fated mates, the way Aurelie and Hawkes talk about their feelings--which feels like a different approach for JAL. I wonder if she ran out of space with all the other plot points going on.
- "One pence" has still not been fixed.
- The writing is still impeccable, with emotion and humor and my favorite supporting cast of characters present and correct.
So, maybe a 3.5? I could be convinced to give it a 4.
August 10, 2023
Another easy reading tale in the Palace of Rogues series. This time former British spy master has been released from a French prison to find the Earl of Brundage's missing fiancee, Lady Aurelio Capet. He traces her to the Grand Palace on the Thames and soon all bets are off with the Earl as far as Hawke’s concerned.What’s more his investigations uncover high treason and the selling of British troop movements during the war. How to make the charges stick and rescue the lady he’s lost his heart to?
June 10, 2022
How does Julie Anne Long keep writing books like this?! I don't understand, but I am in awe at how she continues to write creative stories consistently. It blows my mind. She's amazing.
Quick synopsis: Formerly-imprisoned Agent of the Crown is hired to find the missing finance of an earl. Hawkes, the agent, seeks to find Aurelie, in London, and finds her in the most unique of places, The Palace on the Thames! How they meet and fall in love is a beautiful thing to behold. And set against the swooniest, most hilarious lodging house in London?? Yes, please. Romance novels are about a number of things to me: love, sex, lives lived. There needs to be a good story to anchor the lust, and Long always exceeds this, to me. She really GETS the way in which a romance novel needs to come together. And this newest in the series, is no exception. Long excels in showing the natural progression from meeting to love, and Hawkes and Aurelie are absolute perfection.
I never though it could be done, but Long just wrote a romance novel in which lust and spice aren't at the forefront of the story, and yet, I was 150% IN. Steam in a romance novel is important to me; it shows the compatibility of the couple AND shows an extension of their personalities. While this novel is a slow burn with some steam, I found myself more interested in the how and why of the sex (more than just watching it). This is a new experience for me, and let me tell you, You Were Made to be Mine doesn't disappoint. It is the perfect example of a couple united by tragedy who ultimately decide to take the world head on, and they start in the bedroom. Believe it or not, once you learn Aurelie's background, this makes 100% sense. Only a seasoned writer like Long could pull this off. Watching two wounded souls find each other in such impossible situations was absolutely beautiful to watch. Abuse of different kinds are explored in this story (mental, sexual) and Long handles each one with the care and properly addresses the reasons for each.
I know this review probably sounds scattered, but it's hard to put into words. The author does such a beautiful job of showing two broken souls coming together and finding the love that neither thought they'd have. She shows what happens when you take on the world with the love of your life beside you, and how whole that makes you feel. I can't recommend this book enough. Five HUGE stars for You Were Made to be Mine!!
Side note: This is also Long's funniest novel. I laughed so hard I had tears in my eyes. Expect wonderful hijinks and shenanigans from the crew at The Palace on the Thames.
**A huge thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for this ARC to read and review.**
Quick synopsis: Formerly-imprisoned Agent of the Crown is hired to find the missing finance of an earl. Hawkes, the agent, seeks to find Aurelie, in London, and finds her in the most unique of places, The Palace on the Thames! How they meet and fall in love is a beautiful thing to behold. And set against the swooniest, most hilarious lodging house in London?? Yes, please. Romance novels are about a number of things to me: love, sex, lives lived. There needs to be a good story to anchor the lust, and Long always exceeds this, to me. She really GETS the way in which a romance novel needs to come together. And this newest in the series, is no exception. Long excels in showing the natural progression from meeting to love, and Hawkes and Aurelie are absolute perfection.
I never though it could be done, but Long just wrote a romance novel in which lust and spice aren't at the forefront of the story, and yet, I was 150% IN. Steam in a romance novel is important to me; it shows the compatibility of the couple AND shows an extension of their personalities. While this novel is a slow burn with some steam, I found myself more interested in the how and why of the sex (more than just watching it). This is a new experience for me, and let me tell you, You Were Made to be Mine doesn't disappoint. It is the perfect example of a couple united by tragedy who ultimately decide to take the world head on, and they start in the bedroom. Believe it or not, once you learn Aurelie's background, this makes 100% sense. Only a seasoned writer like Long could pull this off. Watching two wounded souls find each other in such impossible situations was absolutely beautiful to watch. Abuse of different kinds are explored in this story (mental, sexual) and Long handles each one with the care and properly addresses the reasons for each.
I know this review probably sounds scattered, but it's hard to put into words. The author does such a beautiful job of showing two broken souls coming together and finding the love that neither thought they'd have. She shows what happens when you take on the world with the love of your life beside you, and how whole that makes you feel. I can't recommend this book enough. Five HUGE stars for You Were Made to be Mine!!
Side note: This is also Long's funniest novel. I laughed so hard I had tears in my eyes. Expect wonderful hijinks and shenanigans from the crew at The Palace on the Thames.
**A huge thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for this ARC to read and review.**
July 1, 2022
Beautifully written love story that only the super talented Julie Anne Long can deliver. Sweeping prose sets up a classic love story between Christian Hawkes, an English spymaster, and Lady Aurelie Capet, who is on the run from an abusive fiancé. Christian has been hired to find Aurelie when she runs. When these two are on the page together, I couldn't help but sigh in the best way. Christian is one of the most romantic characters I've met in a long time. Aurelie is young, but tough as nails in her fight for happiness.
I love The Palace of Rogues series and You Were Made to Be Mine is a wonderful addition.
I love The Palace of Rogues series and You Were Made to Be Mine is a wonderful addition.
July 8, 2022
Former British spymaster Christian Hawkes has just been released from a dreadful French prison after three years. Now to rebuild the fortune that was taken from him, he has little choice but to accept an assignment from the Earl of Brundage: to locate his runaway fiancée. Unfortunately, Hawkes knows without a doubt that Brundage is a traitor to his country and that it was his machinations that saw Hawkes imprisoned. Nonetheless, Hawkes has no money, and the earl is desperate for his own reasons, so they make a deal.
Lady Aurelie Capet sees no option other than to flee after her every dream is destroyed. She finds safety and kindness at the Grand Palace on the Thames, until a beautiful, mysterious man topples through their door and upends the peaceful routine.
An inexplicable but equally undeniable attraction crops up between the sweet beauty and the hardened spy. They grow closer and learn more and more of each other’s secrets as Hawkes also begins collecting secrets the earl wants to keep hidden. If he wants a future with Aurelie, Hawkes knows he must settle past scores, and avenge her. Though it gives her trepidation, Aurelie knows she must allow this action, even if it costs her even more of her peace.
It still amazes me that, after writing so many novels, Julie Anne Long still manages to write something that feels new each time. This story is slow burn perfection without ever feeling frustrating or boring, in my opinion. Hawkes and Aurelie had an immediate and palpable connection and I loved that they both recognized and embraced this. There was no game playing and despite circumstances very much not being on their side, Hawkes immediately conferred his loyalties on Aurelie and started quietly working to fix things for both of them. Aurelie’s story was incredibly emotional and painful, and I really appreciated the fact that Hawkes recognized this almost immediately, but pushed her to reveal her truths only gradually, and in such a way as to help her come to terms with everything and move forward. It was also adorable that anything that caused her the least distress obviously destroyed him as no physical pain to his person could. This is like the ultimate in manly, strong, protective hero for me, but I don’t want to say any more and risk spoilers.
I think this book is a must read and now I even want to reread it, which is pretty rare for me. I just loved that there was never any doubt that Hawkes and Aurelie would be together, and he was such a pro when it came to making that happen. These two were perfect together, their relationship a beautiful sort of healing and peace for them both, in which two souls recognized their mates and sought to be together with as little fuss as possible. If that’s not what romance, what life even, is all about then I don’t know what is. If you’re looking for some warm fuzzies, this one definitely produced them for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lady Aurelie Capet sees no option other than to flee after her every dream is destroyed. She finds safety and kindness at the Grand Palace on the Thames, until a beautiful, mysterious man topples through their door and upends the peaceful routine.
An inexplicable but equally undeniable attraction crops up between the sweet beauty and the hardened spy. They grow closer and learn more and more of each other’s secrets as Hawkes also begins collecting secrets the earl wants to keep hidden. If he wants a future with Aurelie, Hawkes knows he must settle past scores, and avenge her. Though it gives her trepidation, Aurelie knows she must allow this action, even if it costs her even more of her peace.
It still amazes me that, after writing so many novels, Julie Anne Long still manages to write something that feels new each time. This story is slow burn perfection without ever feeling frustrating or boring, in my opinion. Hawkes and Aurelie had an immediate and palpable connection and I loved that they both recognized and embraced this. There was no game playing and despite circumstances very much not being on their side, Hawkes immediately conferred his loyalties on Aurelie and started quietly working to fix things for both of them. Aurelie’s story was incredibly emotional and painful, and I really appreciated the fact that Hawkes recognized this almost immediately, but pushed her to reveal her truths only gradually, and in such a way as to help her come to terms with everything and move forward. It was also adorable that anything that caused her the least distress obviously destroyed him as no physical pain to his person could. This is like the ultimate in manly, strong, protective hero for me, but I don’t want to say any more and risk spoilers.
I think this book is a must read and now I even want to reread it, which is pretty rare for me. I just loved that there was never any doubt that Hawkes and Aurelie would be together, and he was such a pro when it came to making that happen. These two were perfect together, their relationship a beautiful sort of healing and peace for them both, in which two souls recognized their mates and sought to be together with as little fuss as possible. If that’s not what romance, what life even, is all about then I don’t know what is. If you’re looking for some warm fuzzies, this one definitely produced them for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 25, 2023
💗 hidden identity
💗 spymaster
💗 care-taking
I really enjoyed this fifth installment in the Palace of Rogues series! 🥰
Christian Hawkes, former British spymaster, has just been released from an awful prison sentence. Being unable to prove his innocence and with no money to his name, he's forced to accept an assignment from the Earl of Brundage - to locate his runaway fiancée.
After fleeing from her horrid fiancée, Aurelie Capet takes refuge at the Grand Palace on the Thames where she finds safety and kindness. When a handsome, mysterious man stumbles through the door, she finds herself very intrigued and slowly they unmask each others secrets.
.
.
This couple had a beautiful connection. Hawkes and Aurelie are both withholding secrets and have trauma to overcome. I loved watching their tender, slow burn romance grow as they both find healing and peace together.
And of course, it was so lovely being back with the loveable characters at the Grand Palace on the Thames and seeing the shenanigans they got up to!
"And now she knew of a certainty that just as Hawkes had survived his battle wounds, so would she. She was the heroine of her own story. She would be the victor."
tw: rape
💗 spymaster
💗 care-taking
I really enjoyed this fifth installment in the Palace of Rogues series! 🥰
Christian Hawkes, former British spymaster, has just been released from an awful prison sentence. Being unable to prove his innocence and with no money to his name, he's forced to accept an assignment from the Earl of Brundage - to locate his runaway fiancée.
After fleeing from her horrid fiancée, Aurelie Capet takes refuge at the Grand Palace on the Thames where she finds safety and kindness. When a handsome, mysterious man stumbles through the door, she finds herself very intrigued and slowly they unmask each others secrets.
.
.
This couple had a beautiful connection. Hawkes and Aurelie are both withholding secrets and have trauma to overcome. I loved watching their tender, slow burn romance grow as they both find healing and peace together.
And of course, it was so lovely being back with the loveable characters at the Grand Palace on the Thames and seeing the shenanigans they got up to!
"And now she knew of a certainty that just as Hawkes had survived his battle wounds, so would she. She was the heroine of her own story. She would be the victor."
tw: rape
March 2, 2022
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I could not get into this historical romance. The hero takes on a job to find a missing girl and while the novel has multiple points of views I felt the story dragged on more than was necessary. I found both characters to be a bit bland and the story lacked an interesting plot.
I could not get into this historical romance. The hero takes on a job to find a missing girl and while the novel has multiple points of views I felt the story dragged on more than was necessary. I found both characters to be a bit bland and the story lacked an interesting plot.
April 23, 2024
It was good. I particularly like the whole thing with the footman. The main story was good but not great necessarily. While the hotel and the setup annoyed me in books 1 and 2, now I like revisiting the characters and the drama that unfolds quite often at the Grand Palace on the Thames.
September 21, 2022
Another beautiful book in the Palace of Rogues series. Julie Anne Long's writing is exquisite. Adored Hawkes and Aurelie, both rising above their difficult pasts to come to a place of mutual understanding. Loved Hero Christian Hawke's dry wit and honour bound determination. A unique and heartfelt love story with the usual charming cast of secondary characters we've met throughout. This series is likely one of the best modern historical romance series out there...pure gold.
I can't wait for the next book!
I can't wait for the next book!
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