Secrets to a Gentleman's Heart

Gentlemen of Intrigue #1

by Samantha Grace

WITH UNCLE CHARLES AWAY, THE RAKES ARE OUT TO PLAY

When Regina Darlington’s globetrotting guardian doesn’t return from his latest adventure before the start of the Season, she finds herself the object of a scandalous challenge. It seems every scoundrel in London is trying to seduce her right under the nose of her nearly blind and beloved great aunt. Fortunately, her eccentric uncle taught her an ancient warrior art for just these circumstances, and she is adequately equipped to defend her virtue. Protecting her heart is another matter. When a down-and-out thief accidentally knocks himself unconscious at Wedmore House, Regina takes pity on him and becomes his nursemaid. But her patient is no ordinary thief, and Regina is woefully unprepared to defend herself against the charms of the handsome stranger.

New Orleans gadabout Xavier Vistoire made a powerful enemy during his stay in London two years ago, and he has been paying for it ever since. Imprisoned at a remote farmhouse with nothing but a burly guard with a childlike innocence and a love for pickled beets for companionship, Xavier jumps at the chance to earn his freedom. All he must do is break into an earl’s house and steal a map, which should be easy when the only male servant has resigned and the ladies of the house are attending a ball. But complications arise when he surprises a goddess during her bath and her little dog causes him to fall down the stairs. He wakes to find he has a beautiful new gaoler, and nothing about his situation is easy except falling head over heels for Miss Darlington.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Regency, Ebooks

299 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 20, 2015

About the author

Historical romance author Samantha Grace discovered the appeal of a great love story when she was just a young girl, thanks to Disney's Robin Hood. She didn't care that Robin Hood and Maid Marian were cartoon animals. It was her first happily-ever-after experience and she didn't want the warm fuzzies to end. Now Samantha enjoys creating her own happy-endings for characters that spring from her imagination. Publisher's Weekly describes her stories as "fresh and romantic" with subtle humor and charm. Samantha describes romance writing as the best job ever.

Part-time medical social worker, moonlighting author, and pilates nut, she enjoys a happy and hectic life with her real life hero and two kids in the Midwest.

FREE READ:
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Reviews

[Elis Madison · Rating 3 out of 5]

After two years' imprisonment on a false accusation, Xavier Vistoire has a chance at freedom--all he needs to do is steal something from Wedmore house while its occupants attend a ball.

After a run-in with a lecherous creep, Regina Darlington decides to skip the ball and remain at home in Wedmore house.

Naturally, the two meet and the attraction is immediate--helped along a little when Xav takes a tumble and has to convalesce at (you guessed it) Wedmore house.

The romance here is cute, the history light (and not especially careful--why bother pulling strings to get a special license if you don't plan to marry for several weeks?), but what kept my interest was the unraveling of all the intertwined mysteries--what exactly is the map Xav was sent to steal? Who wants it, and who wanted Xav imprisoned, preferably killed? The answers to some are a bit obvious, but others are not so easy, and there are a few that tie in to Wedmore (Uncle Charlie) himself that will no doubt carry through the series. The second installment in the series also receives a nice setup. 3.5 stars.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regina Darlington has decided she will remain a spinster. Her two younger sisters, Aunt Beatrice and Uncle Charles will always need her so she is resolved to stay unmarried.

Xavier Vistoire has been held hostage for the past two years at a farm outside of London. All he wants is to escape and return home to New Orleans. He has tried several times but he always gets caught.

When given a chance at freedom if he retrieves an old map from the Wedmore house, he jumps at the chance. It is set out like an easy job and he feels like he can accomplish it in no time. What he wasn't expecting was a dog and an angel to prevent this accomplishment.

The two are thrown together after a few lies and untruths. Will they find the map that will guarantee safety for both of their families?

This book is a great story with many laugh out loud moments. I loved the main characters and the side characters too.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets to a Gentleman's Heart is only the second book I have had the chance to read by Samantha Grace and I'm hooked! Ms. Grace has a writing style that reaches out to grab my attention and then holds me spellbound by her fabulous storyline and creative characters.

Regina Darlington is a fun yet serious young lady that will do anything to protect her family. She has the skills to kick rear end and then ask questions later. I admired this young lady quickly. She is what I would have wanted to be like if I had been around in that era. She's smart, has a huge heart, and is incredibly brave. She is determined not to marry. She wants to make sure she is always there to take care of Uncle Charles and Great Aunt Beatrice.

Xavier Vistoire is a handsome gentleman that has been through the mill and back again. Even after all he has been through he's kind, caring, and loves his family. He will do anything to protect his sister and her family. He is in a horrible situation that is not of his own making.

Regina and Xavier met under extremely interesting circumstance. Once they get to know each other they discover that there is more than just their extreme attraction drawing them together.

I loved how Xavier sets out to court Regina and that he includes her family in their courtship. How is not possible to adore a guy when he is not only sweet to Regina but also is kind and caring of her great aunt and her sisters.

Speaking of Aunt Beatrice, I loved this lady. She knows how to put someone in their place but in a way that is all her own style. She loves her nieces and had a quirky personality that you just have to adore.

Secrets to a Gentleman's Heart is jam packed with mystery, drama, suspense, intrigue, romance, family, and all the wonderful things that make for a fabulous story. I know that I can not wait to see what Ms. Grace has in store for the rest of this series. I will be impatiently awaiting the release of book two. I can't wait to see what The Darlington sisters are up to next and what Uncle Charles has been doing that has kept him away from his precious nieces for so long.

If you are looking for a historical romance that is going to have you clinging to edge of your seat with bated breathe while you wait to see what the next twist is going to reveal then you really should pick up Secrets to a Gentleman's Heart.

I was given the opportunity to read this great story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Secrets to a Gentleman's Heart.

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

3☆

[Elizabeth Bennet]

This is my first Samantha Grace book and while I won it in a historical contest on facebook it is my honest oppinion that follows. What can I say I love charming male lead and Xavier is dripping with it and from his first meeting Regina Darlington the banter between the pair was most enjoyable. I just love a man with a sense of humor and the way he turns that on at odd moments just made the book so addiction for me. I would have liked to keep reading but unfortunately life happens and so I kept having to set it aside. There is also a spy based theme unfolding in the background and I do appreciate the authors decision not to have secrets kept between H/h. Sometimes I can tolerate that but I always like it so much more when the H/h are open and honest and have a united force against those that would try to separate them. So since I've complimented Xavier I need to mention That Regina was his match. She is one of the first period h who is into hand to hand combat. I mean seriously she is goingat it with a bag when behind her Xavier is asking what the fellow did to deserve that. LOL. She is not your traditional run of the mill debutantes and I wanted her no other way. There are a few steamy scenes and even words like shagging are thrown in which I thought was unique because we all have heard it but I don't believe I've ever seen it in a historical. I love originality and there are also playful, naughty moments shared between X and R that brought a smile to my face but some may not like that in there period books. I would recommend this book as an enjoyable and fun read. There are no other woman and the one suitor who tried to court Regina did not leave a happy camper. Enjoy!

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Xavier has been held against his will for over two years. To earn his release his is tasked with finding and stealing a map from a household in London. His hope to get the job done quickly and return home to America is scuttled by a poodle.
Regina and her sisters live with their Aunt Beatrice in Uncle Charles' house. Charles is an archeologist, and adventurer. He is away somewhere on his travels. The women he has left behind are well able to take care of themselves. They have had a very unusual upbringing.
I won't say any more about the story because it is a mystery, and I don't want to spoil it for you. It is full of danger, adventure and humour. Our heroine is an incredible, brave and intelligent woman. Definitely not your normal Regency miss.
Our reluctant hero has had his whole life turned upside down. He also finds his family is not where he left them. He must do his best to keep everyone out of danger from the powerful men who threaten them.
This is obviously one of a series. Easily read as a stand alone, but it will intrigue you enough to want to read the others. I certainly will.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGally for this ARC for a honesty review. This is book one in the "Uncle Charlie's Angels" series. This is a great easy, fun, read that I had to finish it as soon as I started it.
Regina Darlington is the eldest of two sister. Regina and her sisters live with their Uncle who travels a lot. Regina knows how to protect herself and she does seem to be the one to look after her family. Regina has set her mind to be like her Aunt and become a spinster.
Xavier Vistoire is originally from New Orleans but some how while staying in London he made a enemy who thinks he is a spy and has held him hostage for two years. Xavier has been asked by his enemy to steal a map from the Darlington household and he will let him go. When Xavier goes there to try to steal he runs into a little dog that has alerted Regina someone is in the house. Xavier accidentally falls when the dog starts nipping at him on top of the stairs. Regina and her sister try to help Xavier when he gets hurt. This starts their love story. I have really enjoyed this book and hope that you will too.

[Sharlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regina has resigned herself to being a spinster, taking care of her aunt & uncle, and her 2 younger sisters. Xavier has been kidnapped & imprisoned in a house for 2 years. He has been let out by his captors, so that he can break into Regina's home & search for a treasure map belonging to her uncle. He ends up getting hurt, so Regina & her sisters hide him & nurse him back to health. No one really knows who the bad guys are connected to & why they want the map, so it is a mystery that Xavier & the sisters try to figure out. Meanwhile, Regina & Xavier are falling in love. There is a great cast of characters & I am looking forward to the stories of the 2 sisters & continuing mystery surrounding their Uncle Charles & his expedition. Excellent beginning to a new series!

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Ms. Grace draws us in with her witty characters having exciting adventures. This was a story that I couldn't put down as it surprised me a time or two as well. I love Regency romance stories with a heroine that doesn't quite fit the mold, and Regina Darlington is definitely one of a kind. Lucky for her and us, Xavier Vistoire comes along just in time to see what a rare gem she is. Unfortunately for him, Ms. Darlington is set on being a spinster. No stranger to a challenge, Vistoire is up to the task. The rest of the characters that make an appearance are also so charming, unique, and opinionated, I can't wait to see what Ms. Grace has in store for all of the Darlington sisters (and us) as the rest of this series unfolds.

[Heather andrews]

Regina can tempt her man, "she slid her hand to his chest and detected the violent throbbing of his heart. “Then make the trouble I’ve gotten myself into worth it.” Xavier murmured something in French—something similar to a prayer." I loved the chemistry between Xavier and Regina:
Her coiffure was beyond repair and a rosy pink stained her cheeks. “Do I look injured?”
He grinned. “You look well-shagged.”
“Well-shagged indeed.” Her smile widened to show a flash of white teeth. “Is it improper to wonder when we can do it again?”
“Probably,” he teased. “Thank God I didn’t marry a proper wife”
I loved this book I can't wait for the other sister to get a book of their own.

[LK · Rating 4 out of 5]

The truth will set you free

Regina is a fun feisty character and Xavier is a redemption seeking rogue. How can they not fall in love? A good overall book with a feel good ending. A little predictable but when it leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy does it matter? Some very witty dialogue and hot romantic interludes to boot. Overall a win. I can't wait for Evangeline's story ;)

[kathy kemmerer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always a good read.

Samantha Grace writes some great stories with great characters in them, never boring. Regina and Xavier,s story is alot fun and action. Can't wait to read the next story in this series.

[Sandra G. Coffey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting

I would have given this book a higher rating but the story was just too long, even though it was a good read. It just seemed to drag on, so I had to put it down a couple of times. I hope the others in the series are not as long.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful 4.5*
My first novel by this author. I loved this story with the unconventional Miss Regina Darlington skilled in an ancient warrior combat and her outspoken Great Aunt and sisters. Not that she can use those skills when she first meets Mr Xavier Vistoire - he is intent on robbing her house and she, being interrupted taking a bath, is trying to hold a bath sheet around her body. Xavier fell foul of an influential man and has spent the last two years imprisoned; in trying to obtain his freedom he draws both his own sister and the Darlington's into danger. Only noted two inappropriate Americanisms. Recommended read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from an author giveaway (Bookfunnel or InstaFreebie). I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.

[Cassie · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first 30% is great but after Xavier heals and leaves Wedmore House, the plot becomes a convulted rushed mess that is also really boring.

It’s not historical accurate, which isn’t a huge deal to me, but the characters are too modern. There’s also this scene:

“When the magistrate arrived, he listened to Xavier’s accounting of the evening’s events without interrupting.
“Two murders and the murderer drowned,” the man repeated when the tale came to an end. “Sounds like you told us all we need to know. I bid you a good evening.”
Apparently in Wapping, a dead duke and his son didn’t cause much of a stir.”

A British officer listens to an un-titled American man talk about the murder of a Duke and his son and just… believes it immediately? No more questioning?

The ending doesn’t resolve anything about Uncle Charles or the map and I don’t know if I’m willing to continue on to find out.

[Vana · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a novel that I could pick up and put down at will. I would have preferred a stronger Hero. Xavier was presented as a little weak at times and let his guard down once or twice when perhaps he shouldn't. I liked the fact that Regina was capable of looking after herself but she was portrayed and being invincible. Otherwise the plot was sound enough. A little more in depth input regarding the motivation of the villains and Farrin's relationship with his employer would not have come amiss. It all seemed to end rather quickly.
I liked the family dynamics in both Xavier's and Regina's family but I think my favourite character was Cupid the unruly pooch.

[Deb Diem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets To A Gentleman's Heart by Samantha Grace is a fantastic read. Ms Grace has given us a well-written book and filled it with amazing, lovable characters. Regina and Xavier's story is packed with drama, suspense, action, humor and sexy bits. I enjoyed reading Secrets To A Gentleman's Heart and look forward to my next book by Samantha Grace. Secrets To A Gentleman's Heart is book 1 of the Uncle Charlie's Angels Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.

I voluntarily read a copy of this book that I received from BookFunnel.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the story, action and Cupid

I enjoyed this more than I was expecting. I like stories with strong heroines. The description of Regina being trained in martial arts was what attracted me to read this one. It really was not a huge part of the story but was a huge part in the character of the female lead. I liked the familial support in the household. I liked the relationship between the H and h. They were supportive of one another. When the H's secrets were revealed, there was trust on both sides. I thought that was refreshing. I loved the aunt and the poodle.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part romance and part mystery this is a fun interesting book - a little different from my historical romances. Instead of meeting Xavier on the dance floor or garden party, Regina meets him when he is breaking in to her home looking for a map that he is being forced to find.
Instead of calling Bow Street she takes care of him when he accidentally falls down the stairs.
The two main characters are strong, fun, and worth reading and the best character of all is Aunt Beatrice she can hardly see but she is worth the read all by herself.

[Deborah Layne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

Strong strident language. Laughter, honour, conflict of conscience, the demonstration of a truly sexy male character who isn't the best looking on the planet, the richest in England and the most well endowed of the species are all things enjoyable about this novel. Throw in an old aunt who's both naughty and nice, a small dog with small dog syndrome and an attraction which is undeniable but doesn't dictate or destroy the book and you have a well orchestrated novel. Loved it.

[Christiane Robillard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable

I found this book very enjoyable and entertaining. The storyline was original and inventive, the characters were well developed and entirely likeable (except for the bad guys). The writing was well done with a few minor typos and grammatical errors but nothing major. The dialogue was delightful. There was much intrigue, suspense and action, as well as touching emotional content. The only thing which I disliked were the gratuitous sexual scenes. I find it detracts from the story without adding any significance.

[Eve · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring. I couldn't get into the story.
Anyway I love historical fiction because it's different than contemporary one. But the trend lately is throwing some 21th century's characters into some historical settings. Knowing that and despite the warning signs in the premise I gave a try, but it's as I predicted. Sigh.

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNF: bailing at the 31% point mostly because the writing style is too convoluted - I don't know if it is authentic or fake-historical, but it's been annoying me more than other historical romances, so I'm going to leave before I give it even fewer stars. The plot is...a little murky, besides the romance, and not all that well revealed. But I didn't finish it, so take that for what it's worth.

[Barbara "Cookie" Serfaty Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets to a Gentleman's Heart (Gentleman of Intrigue Book 1)

The love story of Xavier and Regina. Xavier met Regina when he was trying to retrieve a nap that belong to her uncle. Xavier is force to steal the map ,if he doesn't his sister will be kill. Can he do it? Great story with some fun twiat.

[Eunice · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good story with the right amount of sexual tension.

I enjoyed this story very much. The situation and lifestyle seemed to ring true, showing some knowledge/research of the era. For me, it had a right balance of intrigue and romance with just the right amount of sexual tension and detail. cey happy to continue reading this author.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love at first fall

Regina never thought she would marry. She planned on taking care of her Uncle and Aunt in their old age! Xavier is injured after he is coerced to break in and look for a map! That's when things get interesting! Mayhem, kisses, villains and moonlight walks in the garden! A madcap family leads to a HEA. Love this series!

[Sharon Eikenberry-Deary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protect and love

Regina was overseer to aunt and two sisters. The night she found Xavier I'm the house was a change in both their lives. Yet Xavier still had to find the map and worried about telling Regina. She had an idea which her sisters we part of the plan. After their yome on the docks all of their lives changed.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the series i found it enthralling it captured me from the start to the end. Its an easy fun read and romantic I found Regina super fun and determined yet sassy and loved how Xavier won her over.

[Margaret Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

This story was an absolute delight and can highly recommend. Full of adventure and love together with lots of funny moments that make the reader smile. Not read this author before but will definitely continue the series.

[Mary AF Kingsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

I love female driven stories with children and pets. They make stories more realistic. Plus life is messy and people never do what you expect so why should characters in novels.