Rogues, Rotters, and Rubies

Paddy's Peelers Mysteries #4

by Aubrey Wynne

A fiery-haired beauty…
Clara Alberts, known affectionately as Ruby to her family and friends, has worked hard to craft her skills as a cook. When a French count moves into the influential Hatton Garden, she gets the chance to display her talent and move up in the domestic world of the ton. Add a chance encounter with a handsome young Bow Street Runner, and Ruby decides fate is finally smiling down on her.

A perplexing series of thefts…
Elijah Norton is finishing his time as on Bow Street when he’s asked to look into some recent thefts in Hatton Garden. Each jeweler questioned has found only one set of jewelry stolen and cannot say how long it has been missing. As Eli searches for answers, he meets the beautiful Clara Alberts, and she steals his heart at first glance.

Justice or love…
As the Peelers continue to search for more clues to the elusive Vicar and his vast criminal network, Eli discovers Ruby’s father is linked to the anonymous villain. If he pursues the lead, he may lose the girl. Yet ignoring the information may put the Crown in peril. Will the truth bring clarity to their relationship or create an imperfection in their gem of a romance?

Set in the hectic district of Cheapside during the Regency, Paddy’s Peelers search the dregs of London with skill and cunning to bring criminals to justice and, perhaps, unexpectedly find love along the way. A sweet but action-packed romance.

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 4, 2025

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule, and barn cats. Obsessions include wine, history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas. Her Chicago Christmas and Regency series have received multiple awards and nominated numerous times as a Rone finalist by InD’tale Magazine.

Aubrey’s first love is medieval romance but after dipping her toe in the Regency period in 2018 with the Wicked Earls’ Club, she was smitten. This inspired her spin-off series Once Upon a Widow. In 2020, she launched the Scottish Regency series A MacNaughton Castle Romance with Dragonblade Novels. Her Regency detective series, Paddy’s Peelers, will launch early 2024.

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clara Alberts, known affectionately as Ruby to her family and friends, has worked hard to craft her skills as a cook. When a French count moves into the influential Hatton Garden, she gets the chance to display her talent and move up in the domestic world of the ton. Add a chance encounter with a handsome young Bow Street Runner, and Ruby decides fate is finally smiling down on her. Elijah Norton is finishing his second year as a Runner when he’s asked to look into some recent thefts in Hatton Garden. Each jeweller questioned has found only one set of jewellery stolen and cannot say how long it has been missing. As Eli searches for answers, he meets the beautiful Clara Alberts. As the Peelers continue to search for more clues to the elusive Vicar and his vast criminal network, Eli discovers Ruby’s father is linked to the anonymous villain.
The fourth book in this very good series, it could easily be read on its own. A quick but thoroughly enjoyable book which I read in an afternoon. I loved both Eli & Clara, their attraction was immediate but they took time getting to know each other. I loved that they are both making something of their lives & aren’t afraid of hard work, their romance was a joy. The mystery is also intriguing & then there’s The Vicar who is elusive but is the net tightening? A very well written entertaining book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m enjoying this series immensely. The characters are well developed, the cases the Peelers are working on are interesting, and the stories are just flat out great. These are sweet romances, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t full of longing looks, some feels, and hot kisses.

In this installment, Elijah Norton has saved Clara Alberts from being run over by a carriage. That leads to a lot more than just friendship between these two, but there’s more to it than that.

Clara is unique because she has a job as a chef. She trained under a French chef who gave her a reference to go out on her own and work for a member of French nobility who was going to be visiting for just a short period of time.

The tension between these Eli and Clara was electric. There was no question that they would end up together, which I really liked. The cat and mouse games and the playing hard to get gets annoying. However, they had their own adversities to overcome.

I liked that there were no London ballrooms or debutants, earls, dukes, and all of that, although I do enjoy those stories too. But these were common people with real jobs and real lives. They were trying to make a go of it, and it wasn’t always easy.

I love all the characters in the books, but my favorite is actually Paddy himself. I love how the author portrays him and I especially love his brogue. He is so likable. He’s smart, sensible, and loves his family. How can you not love that?

This is such a great book and I read it in a matter of just a few hours. I’ve loved all the books before this, and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

Easy five stars

*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.

**Although this is part of a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Paddy’s Peelers Mysteries series continues to captivate with its perfect blend of mystery, intrigue, and unexpected romance set against the vibrant backdrop of London. Rogues, Rotters, and Rubies, the fourth installment in this phenomenal series, centers around Elijah Norton as he embarks on a mission to track down a cunning jewelry thief.

What truly sets this series apart is the heartwarming sense of family created by Paddy and Maggie. Their compassionate spirit shines through as they open their hearts and home to children in need, forming bonds stronger than many traditional families. This found family dynamic adds depth and warmth, enriching the thrilling mysteries with heartfelt connections.

In this installment, Eli's path crosses with Clara Alberts, known as Ruby, when he heroically saves her from a runaway carriage. From their first encounter, it’s clear their friendship is destined to evolve into something profoundly special. As Ruby confides in Eli about her father’s dubious dealings and subsequent disappearance, Eli is struck by the revelation that her father may have ties to the infamous Vicar—an elusive figure the Peelers have long been determined to unmask.

Once again, the story delivers an action-packed narrative laced with an intriguing mystery. Readers are drawn closer to uncovering the Vicar’s true identity while witnessing the blossoming romance between Eli and Ruby. Their journey from friendship to love is beautifully crafted, marked by trust, mutual support, and seamless teamwork as they pursue the elusive jewel thief.

The author’s talent for creating endearing characters cannot be overstated. Each figure is richly developed, making it effortless to become emotionally invested in their stories. This installment is no exception, offering a sweet, heartfelt, and thoroughly entertaining tale.

Rogues, Rotters, and Rubies is a testament to the series' growth—each book surpassing the last in depth and charm. You’ll find yourself enamored with this extraordinary family and eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their adventure. Don’t miss out on this delightful, captivating mystery that’s as heartwarming as it is thrilling.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elijah Norton was one of the children found and rescued by Paddy and Maggie O’Brien. He was discovered in a tavern, sitting in the arms of his mother who had just passed away. He was five at the time. Now, seventeen years later, Elijah was working for Bow Street and living with his maternal grandmother, whom his siblings had help him locate. Enroute to a case, he rescued a young woman from a runaway carriage and was instantly smitten. Clara Alberts, aka Ruby because of her red hair, had been studying with a French chef named Henri. When a temporary position arose, he encouraged her to apply. Fast forward and she is working as a cook for a Comte and his sister, and being courted by Elijah, who is working to solve a case involving stolen jewerly. Although he is successful as at Bow Street, Elijah is an artist at heart and dreams of opening up an art supply shop. His ability to make accurate sketches based on verbal descriptions has supported his success both with Bow Street and the O’Brien Investigative Services. As Ruby and Elijah’s relationship progresses, and he strives to solve the stolen jewelry case, connections to the Vicar arise, adding an undercurrent of darkness and danger. This story seems lighter than others in the series and is filled with sweet moments and familial pride. Although he is bright and good at his job, there is a gentleness and innocence to Elijah that flows from the page. Perhaps it is his artistic nature that allows him to see things differently and lends a dreamer like quality to his persona. Ruby is a delight and they make an adorable and happy couple. This is an uplifting story set in a well written and creative series that always leaves you satisfied and craving more!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since Patrick O’Brien, formerly of the Irish Constabulary, and his wife Maggie moved to London, they have taken in and raised six boys and one girl from the streets of Seven Dials. After working for Bow Street, Paddy started an investigative service. Each of the children grew up and were educated in his or her particular skill or interest, and they all became part of Paddy’s Peelers.

Elijah is one of the younger members of the O’Brien family. His dream is to one day own an art shop. Right now, he is working as a Bow Street Runner. He is also the sketch artist for the Peelers and, sometimes, Bow Street. He is currently investigating some rather odd thefts at local jewelers. Clara is an assistant to a chef, and hoping one day to become a cook in a Ton household. When Clara is nearly run down by a carriage, Eli rushes to her rescue, and walks her home. He meets her often to walk her home from her new job as a cook for a French Count. In fact, she and other she works with help him solve the jewel thefts. As they spend time together, they begin to develop feelings for each other. There is one issue that could affect their budding romance. It seems Clara’s father, who has left the country, may be connected to the Vicar. The investigation to find and stop the Vicar continues. This is another page-turner filled with mystery, intrigue, suspense, and danger. There is also a delightful romance, another visit with the wonderful O’Brien family, and a happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Gylene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Clara ‘Ruby’ Alberts was raised by her father after her mother passed away when she was younger. She is currently working as a chief’s assistant after making friends with a French chief.

Mr. Elijah ‘Eli’ Norton was raised by the O’Briens after his mother passed away when he was a boy. He is a Bow Street Runner who is investigating a series of thefts at jewelry shops.

Eli and Ruby met when he saves her from being ran over by a carriage. They start to develop a friendship that starts turning into more. Eli learns that Ruby’s father was working for The Vicar committing some very bad crimes. Eli worries what will happen when he tells Ruby the truth about her father. Will their new found love survive the truth?

I loved Ruby and Eli’s loved story and how they got their happily ever after!! Their story was oh so sweet, very charming and downright delightful!! I loved how they development a friendship and trusted each other then started falling in love together. I also liked how Eli allowed Ruby to help him with the jewel thief case and they solved it together. The secondary characters really added to the story without being a distraction. I absolutely love this series and look forward to reading the next book. I highly recommend this book!!

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well another fantastic story in this series. The author gives us another look into the family of Paddy and Margaret. They have seven children that they have taken in and made them their family. Elijah is looking into the jewel robberies that have a very strange story to them. Clara is a young woman who was almost run down by a carriage but Eli is there to pull her to safety. He helps her home to make sure she gets there but he also wants to know more about her. As they spend more time together , feelings bloom but he begins to realize her father may be involved with the Vicar, a man they have been hunted for awhile. While he solves the case of the jewel thefts he has help of Clara and her staff that she works with. The only The only trouble is her father comes home beaten and tells her to leave home and not come back as he is leaving. Eli and his family try to get closer to finding the Vicar. Lots of action that leave you wanting more of this family. Can't wait for the next story. Would strongly recommend to everyone this story and the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clara Alberts is starting her first job as a cook. A runaway coach leads her to meet Bow Street Runner, Elijah Norton, one of Paddy Peelers. Eli has been tasked with a perplexing case involving stolen jewelry from various businesses. Their sweet courtship is complicated when it’s revealed that Clara’s father has ties to the notorious underworld figure, The Vicar, who the Peelers have been tracking for some time. Does Eli have to choose between love and justice?

Another enjoyable entry in Aubrey Wynne’s Paddy’s Peelers series. Each book focuses on the happily ever after for one of Paddy and Maggie’s adopted children. My favorite part of these books is the interactions of the O’Brien’s found family and the love and support Paddy and Maggie have shown the children. Clara, nicknamed Ruby, because of her red hair, fits in quite well with the brood. Her heartbreak over her father’s livelihood and subsequent fleeing is balanced with her love for Eli. The Vicar’s menacing presence in the background brings the drama to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an uplifting story of 2 people coming from trying circumstances who manage to create productive lives for themselves, in the service of others. Clara Alberts (a.k.a Ruby due to her red hair), lives with her father, and works with a French chef to learn the art of cooking. She hopes to be able to serve as a cook in the future to bring some money to her impoverished father. Elijah Norton was left alone at the death of his mother at age 5. Taken in by a kindly Bow Street Runner, he joined the family that O’Brien was creating by taking in other children without families.
The sweet love story between them warms the heart, despite ugly facts coming to light. This encouraging story portrays how 2 people made lemonade from the lemons they were handed, while maintaining loving, responsible characters. As such, they set a good example for young readers as well as old in how to not be jaded by life’s vicissitudes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deborah Durand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elijah’s Gem

Wynne’s series always begins with a poignant prologue regarding the circumstances of a young waif who has fallen on hard times. Elijah Norton was just five years old, when Paddy O’Brien found him in a tavern cuddling with his dead mother. Abandoned by his father for another family, Elijah is welcomed into the loving arms of the O’Briens with the added bonus of “brothers” …other children found in unfortunate circumstances.
Read how this new member of the family makes a living as a Peeler, but is using his talents as a portrait artist to hope for a different future.
The common theme in these books is uncovering the machinations of the Vicar, a villain who is expanding his crimes. While Elijah is working on uncovering some jewel thefts, he runs into Clara Alberts…a young woman who is an aspiring chef. Read how these two young people hope to build a life together as they share moments together with Elijah’s large family. Also, read why Clara’s father had to abandon her.
I enjoy this series and I usually reread the prologues. They are always touching.

[Shuvai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aubrey Wynne’s Rogues, Rotters, and Rubies is another captivating entry in the Paddy’s Peelers Mysteries, blending intrigue, romance, and the warmth of found family. Bow Street Runner Elijah Norton’s pursuit of a jewel thief intertwines with his tender romance with Clara Alberts, a spirited young cook whose father’s ties to the notorious Vicar threaten their happiness. The chemistry between Eli and Clara is electric, their journey from friendship to love both heartfelt and believable, while the overarching mystery keeps the pages turning. Paddy and Maggie’s compassion and the O’Brien family’s bonds add depth and charm, making this series as heartwarming as it is thrilling. With endearing characters, suspenseful cases, and sweet romance, this installment proves why the Peelers’ adventures are such a delight— I finished it in one sitting and eagerly await the next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth book in the Paddy Peelers Mystery series. This installment features Cook Clara Alberts—affectionately known as Ruby—and Elijah Norton, who is finishing his second year as a Runner. They meet when Elijah is sent to Hatton Garden. The story is action-packed and laced with an intriguing mystery. The narrative successfully draws readers closer to uncovering the Vicar’s true identity while witnessing the blossoming romance between Eli and Ruby. Their journey from friendship to love is beautifully crafted, marked by trust, mutual support, and seamless teamwork as they pursue the elusive jewel thief. The story is exceptionally well written, featuring a compelling storyline and great, memorable characters, and a satisfying, happy ending. I want to read the next book. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Normand · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC from Booksprout and I'm willingly leaving my review.
It is Eli's story and it's a sad one - saying he wanted to be the favorite so he wouldn't be abandoned by his father. Some weird stuff like when Clara explained how her first kiss (from Eli) affected her, it was TMI; people didn't talk like that in those days, or Mr. Smalley's joke about being hungry enough to eat a scullery maid? What is this? Who wrote this book? I also never seen so many editing errors in the author's ARCs before (for ex., is she the sister, wife, or cousin?). Predictable and cheesy, more friendly romance (i.e. without the chemistry) than either mystery or suspense.

[Anne Curry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kinda a historical clean romance and mystery. Part of a series but OK as a standalone. I did not read other books in the series and a few times felt like I was missing something however the story made sense and felt whole although the ending is a lead in to the next I'm assuming.

I found it entertaining with bits of life back then thrown in. I'd read more from this author. Mystery part I did guess fairly early in book but it's not completely obvious. Romance is slow but sweet. I felt book had just the right amount of drama to keep it interesting but not too much to think it's not realistic.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each of Paddy's Peelers has a sad past that elicits sympathy for the protagonist. I liked that the story of Clara Alberts and Elijah Norton turned into a sweet romance with the continuation of a mystery yet to be solved. Clara proved to be a real asset to Elijah, and not just romantically. I found the investigation into the robberies interesting and intriguing, as well as the roles of the different characters, and I liked how everything fell into place. I remain intrigued by the character of the Vicar, and even more so now that a great danger has turned its attention to the Peelers. I love these adventures that keep me in suspense. I'm eager to get to the story of the artist.

[Marichus Real · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clara has worked hard to become a fine cook, getting a position as a temporary cook for a French count.
Elijah is about to end his time as a Bow Street Runner, but first, he needs to find out who is stealing jewels from the jewellers’.
The entanglement between the characters and the situations is amazing. You never know what the author is going to write in the next line.
I liked this series. The idea of Paddy and Maggie taking all those little ones under their wings and watching how they grow into fine and honest men is wonderful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable read. It had two lovely main characters in Ruby and Eli. They were both very hardworking and caring people. Eli is now part of the O’Brien family and they provided such a warm and welcoming home to all of the children they took in. I enjoyed the way that Ruby and Eli got to know each other. There is a mystery to solve concerning stolen jewellery and also involving Ruby’s father. This is a quick read but one which will live you with a very satisfying feeling. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been in love with this series since book 1 and I keep falling in love even more with each book..

Clara and Elijah both meet by chance on her way to work in a freak accident where she could have met an unfortunate ending however that unfortunate ending became the best day of both of their lives because that chance meeting becomes a walk home, and a love that they can't deny..

This story was filled with love laughter and mystery..

I definitely can't wait to see what happens to the Vicar!!!

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clara (Ruby) has dreams of being a chef and finally has her chance after years of working with a French chef. As it turns out the timing couldn’t have been much better as her father’s dealings have caught up with him. Enter Elijah, a young man with his own heartbreaking past, who is able to rescue Clara from a runaway carriage. Little did they know at the time how much their lives would intersect. This was an enjoyable sweet romance with mystery to be solved. These historical stories always leave me appreciating modern conveniences😜.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eli's story of how he joined the O'Brien family is engaging. I greatly enjoy reading this series. I enjoyed the Bow Street Runner case and the mystery of it. I wanted more about the ties to the Vicar which is the overarching series component. Adding more to this story would have made it a five for me, especially since it was less than two hours to read. It was be great for reading during a commute.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth book in a great series that just continues to give and give joy in its reading.
My strongest recommendation is to read the series in order to fully appreciate this authors talents.
A family of characters that meld together in such an amazing manner deserves to be savored, read again and again and to anticipate what coming next. The main characters are sweet yet determined and oh so amazing.

[Nicole Deanne Veracruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Paddy's Peelers and I love Aonarach. But back to the book, my heart broke for Elijah when he lost his mom. I had to stop reading because I was crying so hard. I adore Clara, AKA Ruby. She and Eli make a wonderful couple. I was hoping that maybe he would find his half-siblings. I really want this Viscount to be found, but on the other hand, I don't because then that might mean the end of the books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni L · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the latest HEA story in the Paddy’s Peelers series and while it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, it is probably best enjoyed as part of the series, due to an overarching storyline. I liked this story, although the language and situations were too modern in places. Eli and Ruby are wonderful characters and work well together, although I was disappointed that we weren’t given more about Eli’s original family.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eli is one of Paddy’s Peelers who is investigating the theft of jewelry when he meets Ruby who has been trained by a French chef and works for a French Comte. Their meeting helps him close his case and also changed both their life’s in unexpected ways.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the series, and they are best read in order. The Vicar is an ongoing mystery, and each book brings us closer to bringing him and his organization down. Sweet romance, just kissing, historical mystery. I love each book.

In this book, Elijah is on the hunt for a jewelry thief.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bow street runner and artist Eli saves chef Clara and starts to fall for her but what will he do when she has to flee her home because her father could be mixed up with a criminal mastermind? He is working on a jewel theft case where the culprits are closer than he thinks. This was a kisses only novella romance.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another charming story in the Paddies Peelers series. Ruby finally feels like her life is coming together until she meets Elijah and falls for him. Elijah is investigating some stolen jewels, and Ruby's father may be involved. When Ruby is put in danger, Elijah will protect her with all he has. Elijah is a dream, and Ruby is a doll.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A novella to enjoy about love at first sight with a criminal mystery to solve as well as the spectre of a villain adding another dimension to the tale.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She has got her ideal job as a cook and she hopes to impress, as well as moving upwards. She will meet him and a new life may open up for her. Love may flourish with a background of several thefts. See just what will happen next
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a lovely tale

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something’s rotten…

I really liked this historical about working class peeps. Clara is a cook with mad skills.

Elijah is a Bow Street runner looking for a notorious jewel thief.
Something is rotten.
Recommend.