A treacherous forgery. A forbidden connection. A love that risks everything.
When a wave of counterfeit currency threatens England's stability, Lord Tristan Kingston is dispatched to uncover the source. A charming rogue who is used to winning, Lord Tristan's investigation draws him far from London's glittering ballrooms to a modest charity school in the East End — and into a clash of wits with the formidable Miss Eliza.
Fiercely devoted and sharp-witted, Miss Eliza is guarding secrets far more dangerous than her circumstances suggest. As the counterfeit trail leads directly to her door, she finds herself increasingly charmed by the mysterious Lord Tristan — even as her instincts warn her that he isn't all he seems. While Lord Tristan weaves himself into Miss Eliza's world to uncover the truth, the line between his mission and his feelings begins to blur.
Standing on opposite sides of a criminal investigation, they must navigate a world of wary glances, reluctant trust, and a growing attraction neither can afford to indulge. But danger is closing in. Loyalties fracture, and lives hang in the balance. The deeper Lord Tristan falls, the harder it becomes to choose between his duty to the Crown and his devotion to the woman who has become his most dangerous adversary — and his heart's greatest desire.
If you crave:
The high-stakes friction of an investigator falling for his prime suspect.Duty vs. An honor-bound hero torn between his mission and the woman who has ensnared him.A Battle of A game of truth and lies.Slow Burn Longing threaded with mystery, danger, and the grit of the East End.The Counterfeit Conspiracy will sweep you away.
Perfect for fans of Bridgerton, Deanna Raybourn, and Stephanie Laurens, this Regency romance blends charm and mystery in a world where every coin tells a lie... and every kiss risks everything.
Another great story with the Lords and Ladies. I appreciate the way that the author doesn’t focus on the frivolous nature of the times, but develops characters that are relatable and human.
In the previous book, we were introduced to Lord Tristan, a confirmed bachelor.
This book begins with him in the task of conducting spying activities for the Crown, risking his life to achieve the mission on which he was sent to France. He proclaimed that this life has no place for marriage, and is backed up by his two lifelong friends, who (once he returned to London) meet regularly for drinks and conversation.
His new mission keeps him on home soil, investigating a counterfeit ring that threatens the financial stability of the country, as the infiltration of fake currency, done well, can lead to entire mistrust.
Without giving away the secrets, he meets a woman who is lively, adventurous and clever, such that they can work together to investigate the source of the fake currency.
There are moments of danger, humour and romance, making the story a great combination for most readers.
I thank the author for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC.