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Rogue Hearts #4
The Suspect's Daughter
Determined to help her father with his political career, Jocelyn sets aside dreams of love. When she meets the handsome and mysterious Grant Amesbury, her dreams of true love reawaken. But his secrets put her family in peril.
Grant goes undercover to capture conspirators avowed to murder the prime minister, but his only suspect is the father of a courageous lady who is growing increasingly hard to ignore. He can’t allow Jocelyn to distract him from the case, nor will he taint her with his war-darkened soul. She seems to see past the barriers surrounding his heart, which makes her all the more dangerous to his vow of remaining forever alone.
Jocelyn will do anything to clear her father’s name, even if that means working with Grant. Time is running out. The future of England hangs in the balance...and so does their love.
Grant goes undercover to capture conspirators avowed to murder the prime minister, but his only suspect is the father of a courageous lady who is growing increasingly hard to ignore. He can’t allow Jocelyn to distract him from the case, nor will he taint her with his war-darkened soul. She seems to see past the barriers surrounding his heart, which makes her all the more dangerous to his vow of remaining forever alone.
Jocelyn will do anything to clear her father’s name, even if that means working with Grant. Time is running out. The future of England hangs in the balance...and so does their love.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2015
106 people are currently reading
620 people want to read
About the author
Donna Hatch
43 books1,037 followersMulti-award-winning author of more than twenty best-selling Regency Historical Romances, Donna Hatch is a hopeful romantic and an adventurer at heart. Each book she writes is filled with wit and heart and plenty of swoon-worthy romance. Donna sings, plays the harp, and loves to ballroom dance. Her family, including six children and two cats, recently left their native Arizona for the Pacific coast of the US. No matter where they live, she and her husband of over twenty years are proof that there truly is a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
May 1, 2020
Awesomeness with a side of swoon!
I love the Rogue Heart series, it's probably one of my all time favorite series. I love the characters, setting and writing. I love that each book can stand on its own, but characters are referenced in each others books, which helps to connect everything together. I actually started this series with book two and then went back and read the first book. I think Ms. Hatch does an excellent job having each book focus on a certain couple, but still have previous characters play a role without taking over the story. Which I think would be hard to do. Anyway, on to my review...
I have been so curious about Grant since the beginning, he's so untouchable, grumpy and mysterious. He is loyal to his family, even if at times he doesn't seem to like them much. I loved that we finally got to see things from his POV and learn his story and what makes him tick. He definitely has reasons for his many walls and my heart broke for him at times. I have also been very curious about what kind of woman could get through to him, and Jocelyn Fairly was a perfect match. I liked Jocelyn quite a bit, I loved that she was a happy person, quick to smile. Yet, she had a lot of depth and strength. She was smart and determined. It was easy to see how someone as rough and cautious as Grant would fall for someone like Jocelyn.
We know Grant helps out with Bow Street Runners, so it was fun to see him in his element trying to solve a mystery. I also liked to see that he had high standards and always tried to do the right thing and help others. Jocelyn and Grant were great together, their relationship built at a believable pace and had plenty of swoony moments.
I am still anxious to read about the Amesbury sisters and look forward to reading their books and reuniting with the whole Amesbury clan. Which is another thing I love about this series, how loyal they are to each other and always there to help in times of need. I love the scenes when they're all together.
Overall, a great regency!
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: None
Source: Part of Prism blog tour, review copy. Will be buying a hardcopy for my collection, definitely a keeper!
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
I love the Rogue Heart series, it's probably one of my all time favorite series. I love the characters, setting and writing. I love that each book can stand on its own, but characters are referenced in each others books, which helps to connect everything together. I actually started this series with book two and then went back and read the first book. I think Ms. Hatch does an excellent job having each book focus on a certain couple, but still have previous characters play a role without taking over the story. Which I think would be hard to do. Anyway, on to my review...
I have been so curious about Grant since the beginning, he's so untouchable, grumpy and mysterious. He is loyal to his family, even if at times he doesn't seem to like them much. I loved that we finally got to see things from his POV and learn his story and what makes him tick. He definitely has reasons for his many walls and my heart broke for him at times. I have also been very curious about what kind of woman could get through to him, and Jocelyn Fairly was a perfect match. I liked Jocelyn quite a bit, I loved that she was a happy person, quick to smile. Yet, she had a lot of depth and strength. She was smart and determined. It was easy to see how someone as rough and cautious as Grant would fall for someone like Jocelyn.
We know Grant helps out with Bow Street Runners, so it was fun to see him in his element trying to solve a mystery. I also liked to see that he had high standards and always tried to do the right thing and help others. Jocelyn and Grant were great together, their relationship built at a believable pace and had plenty of swoony moments.
I am still anxious to read about the Amesbury sisters and look forward to reading their books and reuniting with the whole Amesbury clan. Which is another thing I love about this series, how loyal they are to each other and always there to help in times of need. I love the scenes when they're all together.
Overall, a great regency!
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: None
Source: Part of Prism blog tour, review copy. Will be buying a hardcopy for my collection, definitely a keeper!
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
August 25, 2018
The characters in the Rogue Hearts series really come to life and Grant is no exception. As the dark and surly brother, he has physical and emotional scars that have him keeping everyone at a distance as he works to bring criminals to justice, even though the work is below his station. His point of view was fascinating as he struggles to stay indifferent to Jocelyn, a strong and poised daughter helping her father seek political election. She sees the good man he is behind his barriers of sarcasm and isolation, and humors him with wit and patience, and draws him out of his emotional isolation. I appreciated that the romance between them took time and grew slowly, they learned to like each other before they loved each other. The mystery of discovering who is behind the sinister plot to assassinate the prime minister keeps the plot moving forward swiftly and balances the emotional drama with action and excitement. There is also some subtle humor as Grant feels completely out of his element acting polite in society. My favorite of the series... so far! Can't wait for the next two books which will feature each of the Amesbury sisters!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)
December 10, 2015
*I received a copy from the tour host in exchange for an honest review*
I loved this book and I've loved this series. It's been awhile since I've read the others, but I had no trouble following along and loved seeing glimpses of the other brothers, as this one can stand alone.
Jocelyn is a very competent woman. Although she's endured a couple of London seasons, she has yet to make a match and this season, she's focusing her efforts on her father's political career, with no thought for herself. She's very good at planning out social events and is the perfect hostess. She's easy to like and even hardened Grant discovers that.
I love a great "first meet" between two characters and this one was the best! Although it is a terrifying situation, Jocelyn isn't rattled and proves her strength, which surprises Grant. He is undercover and works for the Bow Street Runners, investigating claims that Jocelyn's father is plotting to murder the prime minister. Grant is very mysterious, handsome, and intriguing and I love watching him undergo a conversion, of sorts, to some previous ways of thinking. He really does have a heart of gold, as much as he tries to cover it.
I love a good, clean romance, but when there's depth--more "meat" to the story--, I'm in heaven and this book delivers. The reader not only gets a really great, believable romance, but a fantastic story line, full of conspiracy, mystery, and suspense. Working together, Jocelyn and Grant strive to figure things out before it's too late. Walls are broken, secrets uncovered, and surprises await. The pacing is well done and the characters are developed in a way that allows me to fully visualize them. I can't wait to see what Donna Hatch writes next!
Content: mild romance (kissing, very vague talk of prostitution); mild violence (non-graphic); no language. Clean!
I loved this book and I've loved this series. It's been awhile since I've read the others, but I had no trouble following along and loved seeing glimpses of the other brothers, as this one can stand alone.
Jocelyn is a very competent woman. Although she's endured a couple of London seasons, she has yet to make a match and this season, she's focusing her efforts on her father's political career, with no thought for herself. She's very good at planning out social events and is the perfect hostess. She's easy to like and even hardened Grant discovers that.
I love a great "first meet" between two characters and this one was the best! Although it is a terrifying situation, Jocelyn isn't rattled and proves her strength, which surprises Grant. He is undercover and works for the Bow Street Runners, investigating claims that Jocelyn's father is plotting to murder the prime minister. Grant is very mysterious, handsome, and intriguing and I love watching him undergo a conversion, of sorts, to some previous ways of thinking. He really does have a heart of gold, as much as he tries to cover it.
I love a good, clean romance, but when there's depth--more "meat" to the story--, I'm in heaven and this book delivers. The reader not only gets a really great, believable romance, but a fantastic story line, full of conspiracy, mystery, and suspense. Working together, Jocelyn and Grant strive to figure things out before it's too late. Walls are broken, secrets uncovered, and surprises await. The pacing is well done and the characters are developed in a way that allows me to fully visualize them. I can't wait to see what Donna Hatch writes next!
Content: mild romance (kissing, very vague talk of prostitution); mild violence (non-graphic); no language. Clean!
February 4, 2016
Historical romance that I enjoyed reading. Will definitely look for more books by this author.
This is the fourth book in a series that reads just fine as a standalone.
Content: Clean
Source: Kindle Unlimited Download
This is the fourth book in a series that reads just fine as a standalone.
Content: Clean
Source: Kindle Unlimited Download
December 9, 2015
I just loved this book. I had to start out with that and I'll probably end with that too. This series (Rogue Heart) is one of my favorites. These Amesbury brothers are a little thick headed to begin with but their transformations are awesome and when those boys let go and love, boy are they a force to be reckoned with!
Finally Grant has his story told. I've been waiting for Grant's story- I just knew it would be good. And it was. Grant is one closed up guy. And I mean closed up. Sealed up tight. Poor Grant. He doesn't even know how shriveled up his soul has become denying himself love and comfort from family and friends. But Grant has a good heart. He tries to protect people from bad guys and he offers help to people where he can.
Jocelyn is so easy to like. Even Grant has trouble disliking her and that's something. The characters in this book are developed and I really felt like I knew them well by the end of the book. I craved interactions between Grant and Jocelyn because they always made me smile.
This book was romantic and had a bit of intrigue. I was happy to see glimpses of the Amesbury brothers throughout, still happy and well. Now Grant's story has been told and I can't wait to see where we go next with Donna Hatch. Wherever it is, I will be there. I loved this book. It took me to my happy place!
Finally Grant has his story told. I've been waiting for Grant's story- I just knew it would be good. And it was. Grant is one closed up guy. And I mean closed up. Sealed up tight. Poor Grant. He doesn't even know how shriveled up his soul has become denying himself love and comfort from family and friends. But Grant has a good heart. He tries to protect people from bad guys and he offers help to people where he can.
Jocelyn is so easy to like. Even Grant has trouble disliking her and that's something. The characters in this book are developed and I really felt like I knew them well by the end of the book. I craved interactions between Grant and Jocelyn because they always made me smile.
This book was romantic and had a bit of intrigue. I was happy to see glimpses of the Amesbury brothers throughout, still happy and well. Now Grant's story has been told and I can't wait to see where we go next with Donna Hatch. Wherever it is, I will be there. I loved this book. It took me to my happy place!
February 6, 2017
This was my second favorite of this series. The guise of a gentleman was my favorite, but I really enjoy the entire series. I was very anxious to see what kind of heroine would be able to take on Grant and his brooding darkness. I really enjoyed the chance to see him acting like a gentleman, especially since he only did it as a sort of undercover assignment. I liked the heroine, her back story, her different skills and traits that made her a strong presence. I always enjoy seeing the characters from the other books and catching up on their lives. I'm excited to read one of the sisters' stories and hope that one of them is next.
Content: clean
Tiny thing that bugged me: the cover. Violet is so not a color I would associate with Grant. It seems very much like a misfit.
Content: clean
Tiny thing that bugged me: the cover. Violet is so not a color I would associate with Grant. It seems very much like a misfit.
December 31, 2015
WOW, way to pull emotion out of my TOES! An experience within these pages had to be extracted from real life. You sit next to her and feel the raw emotional power from Jocelyn. The relief I felt at the end, palpable.
I bite my nails there for a moment (not really, figuratively). I really liked Jocelyn character. Of course she had to have a strong personality to chip away at Grant's shell. Beautifully written. LOVE IT DONNA!
I bite my nails there for a moment (not really, figuratively). I really liked Jocelyn character. Of course she had to have a strong personality to chip away at Grant's shell. Beautifully written. LOVE IT DONNA!
September 15, 2024
Reviewed for THC Reviews
"4.5 stars" Since I tend to prefer a little steam in my romances, I don't usually read a lot of sweet, PG-rated ones. However, I can definitely enjoy a romance sans love scenes as long as the writer is talented enough to make me feel something. The most important thing for me when reading any romance is the desire to sense an emotional connection between the characters within the story as well as having them connect with me as the reader. I know I'm always going to get that when I read one of Donna Hatch's stories, which is why she's become my current favorite go-to author for sweet mainstream romance. The Suspect's Daughter, her latest release and the newest book in her Rogue Hearts series fits the bill perfectly. I didn't end up liking it quite as well as the previous two books in the series, but it was still a really good read.
Oddly enough, my main reason for marking this book down a half star is probably the exact same reason most other readers are giving it the highest rating of any book in the series thus far. And that's its hero, Grant. Grant is a very cold, cynical man, a little too much so for my taste. However, this didn't really surprise me based on his appearances in the previous books of the series. He's essentially an honorary Bow Street Runner. As the son of a earl, he doesn't really have to work, but he's not the type of man to sit around indolently the way he feels many aristocratic men do. He's good friends with the magistrate who saved his life during the Napoleonic War and feels he owes the man a debt of gratitude. In part, to pay him back, Grant works with Bow Street on a number of cases as a sort of independent consultant. His latest case investigating a possible assassination plot against the Prime Minister places him in close proximity with the two types of people he dislikes the most, aristocrats and women. He has little use for either one and isn't particularly fond of going undercover among them.
I could live with Grant's internal commentary on the ton, but his thoughts about women did tend to grate on occasion. Early on, he's pretty difficult to like and I couldn't quite understand what Jocelyn saw in him. Luckily, though, the author does hint at some vulnerability in his past and perhaps a woman who did him wrong. I suppose everyone deals with things in their own way, and I'll admit that some pretty terrible things happened to Grant, but there were times when his methods of dealing seemed a little extreme. He doesn't want to have anything to do with women at all, ever again, and thinks they're all manipulative, conniving witches who always have an ulterior motive. Given that he had a mother he seemed to adore and two sisters, as well as three sisters-in-law whom he likes well enough, it was a little hard to grasp his extreme views. Thankfully, this begins to improve about halfway into the story. We see some selfless actions on his part, become privy to compassion that he's shown others, and his past starts to be revealed in bits and pieces. Because of these things I can honestly say that I gradually started liking him much better, but when he was still questioning Jocelyn's motives over ¾ of the way into the book, when she'd been nothing but sweet and kind to him, I wanted to slap him silly. Grant did grow on me and I did sympathize with him after all that he'd been though, but he was just a little too distrustful and jaded for me to wholeheartedly fall in love with him like I did with his brothers, Christian and Jared. I guess I simply like my heroes to be a little softer and more personable.
Jocelyn was the perfect foil for Grant's hard-edged, misanthropic personality. She's a sweet girl who's given up her season to act as her father's hostess to further his political career. She's upbeat and always has a genuine sunny smile for everyone. Jocelyn adores her father and when she finds out that he's the prime suspect in Grant's investigation, she knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that he wouldn't do something like that. She's no delicate shrinking violet like Grant expects her to be. In fact, she insists on helping with his investigation so that she can prove her point. She also does a lot of things, such as acting as a healer and midwife, that are completely unexpected to Grant and that don't fit his preconceived notions of what a woman of her station is like. Jocelyn is a deeply caring and compassionate person, always willing to lend a helping hand. I love how she genuinely wanted to do something when faced with the extreme poverty of her maid's sister and her children. Best of all, she exhibits the patience of Job and is extremely bold and determined in her dealings with Grant. I don't think I could have dealt with a man like him the way she did, but I admire her for it. Without her genuine sweetness and dauntless pursuit of him, he would have easily written her off as just another spoiled society miss.
Other than wishing Grant would have softened up a bit more and a bit sooner, the only other thing that bothered me were the typos. If there are only a few, I try to overlook them, but in this case there were enough to be a bit distracting. Otherwise, I very much enjoyed reading The Suspect's Daughter. The mystery was well-done, and according to the author's note at the end, it's based on factual historical events. I also enjoyed visiting with Grant's three brothers and their wives from the previous books, and his two sisters put in an appearance too. I think that Ms. Hatch has plans to write their stories as well. I really like Rachel's geekiness, and it appears that Margaret is trapped in a horrible marriage and needs an HEA of her own. I'll certainly be on the look-out for their books and hope that Ms. Hatch will be writing and releasing them soon.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
"4.5 stars" Since I tend to prefer a little steam in my romances, I don't usually read a lot of sweet, PG-rated ones. However, I can definitely enjoy a romance sans love scenes as long as the writer is talented enough to make me feel something. The most important thing for me when reading any romance is the desire to sense an emotional connection between the characters within the story as well as having them connect with me as the reader. I know I'm always going to get that when I read one of Donna Hatch's stories, which is why she's become my current favorite go-to author for sweet mainstream romance. The Suspect's Daughter, her latest release and the newest book in her Rogue Hearts series fits the bill perfectly. I didn't end up liking it quite as well as the previous two books in the series, but it was still a really good read.
Oddly enough, my main reason for marking this book down a half star is probably the exact same reason most other readers are giving it the highest rating of any book in the series thus far. And that's its hero, Grant. Grant is a very cold, cynical man, a little too much so for my taste. However, this didn't really surprise me based on his appearances in the previous books of the series. He's essentially an honorary Bow Street Runner. As the son of a earl, he doesn't really have to work, but he's not the type of man to sit around indolently the way he feels many aristocratic men do. He's good friends with the magistrate who saved his life during the Napoleonic War and feels he owes the man a debt of gratitude. In part, to pay him back, Grant works with Bow Street on a number of cases as a sort of independent consultant. His latest case investigating a possible assassination plot against the Prime Minister places him in close proximity with the two types of people he dislikes the most, aristocrats and women. He has little use for either one and isn't particularly fond of going undercover among them.
I could live with Grant's internal commentary on the ton, but his thoughts about women did tend to grate on occasion. Early on, he's pretty difficult to like and I couldn't quite understand what Jocelyn saw in him. Luckily, though, the author does hint at some vulnerability in his past and perhaps a woman who did him wrong. I suppose everyone deals with things in their own way, and I'll admit that some pretty terrible things happened to Grant, but there were times when his methods of dealing seemed a little extreme. He doesn't want to have anything to do with women at all, ever again, and thinks they're all manipulative, conniving witches who always have an ulterior motive. Given that he had a mother he seemed to adore and two sisters, as well as three sisters-in-law whom he likes well enough, it was a little hard to grasp his extreme views. Thankfully, this begins to improve about halfway into the story. We see some selfless actions on his part, become privy to compassion that he's shown others, and his past starts to be revealed in bits and pieces. Because of these things I can honestly say that I gradually started liking him much better, but when he was still questioning Jocelyn's motives over ¾ of the way into the book, when she'd been nothing but sweet and kind to him, I wanted to slap him silly. Grant did grow on me and I did sympathize with him after all that he'd been though, but he was just a little too distrustful and jaded for me to wholeheartedly fall in love with him like I did with his brothers, Christian and Jared. I guess I simply like my heroes to be a little softer and more personable.
Jocelyn was the perfect foil for Grant's hard-edged, misanthropic personality. She's a sweet girl who's given up her season to act as her father's hostess to further his political career. She's upbeat and always has a genuine sunny smile for everyone. Jocelyn adores her father and when she finds out that he's the prime suspect in Grant's investigation, she knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that he wouldn't do something like that. She's no delicate shrinking violet like Grant expects her to be. In fact, she insists on helping with his investigation so that she can prove her point. She also does a lot of things, such as acting as a healer and midwife, that are completely unexpected to Grant and that don't fit his preconceived notions of what a woman of her station is like. Jocelyn is a deeply caring and compassionate person, always willing to lend a helping hand. I love how she genuinely wanted to do something when faced with the extreme poverty of her maid's sister and her children. Best of all, she exhibits the patience of Job and is extremely bold and determined in her dealings with Grant. I don't think I could have dealt with a man like him the way she did, but I admire her for it. Without her genuine sweetness and dauntless pursuit of him, he would have easily written her off as just another spoiled society miss.
Other than wishing Grant would have softened up a bit more and a bit sooner, the only other thing that bothered me were the typos. If there are only a few, I try to overlook them, but in this case there were enough to be a bit distracting. Otherwise, I very much enjoyed reading The Suspect's Daughter. The mystery was well-done, and according to the author's note at the end, it's based on factual historical events. I also enjoyed visiting with Grant's three brothers and their wives from the previous books, and his two sisters put in an appearance too. I think that Ms. Hatch has plans to write their stories as well. I really like Rachel's geekiness, and it appears that Margaret is trapped in a horrible marriage and needs an HEA of her own. I'll certainly be on the look-out for their books and hope that Ms. Hatch will be writing and releasing them soon.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2016
Oh what a delicious book! The Suspect’s Daughter is a clean romance but that in no way means it lacks heat. I am officially adding Donna Hatch to my unofficial list of KissingBook authors to keep on retainer. Whew! It’s a wonder I am coherent enough to write this review.
Anyway… ahem … back to the review in question.
The Suspect’s Daughter, though the fourth book in Hatch’s Rogue Hearts series, can easily be read as a standalone. I had no problems at all following the characters even though I haven’t yet the preceding three books. (I can assure you that I nevertheless will be correcting this oversight at the first available opportunity! Especially if all the Rogues kiss like Grant… )
Speaking of Grant, he is one of those Mr. Darcy/Beast type heroes that for some reason we all love in fiction but would loathe in reality lol. But seeing as how we’re talking about fiction… he makes quite the dreamy gruff and reticent hero. Who fights crime. And saves lives. And has a tender heart under his grumpy exterior. I mean… SWOON!
And Jocelyn – I adored her too. She’s spunky, determined, not stick-thin (can I get an amen?) and truly cares about the people around her. Her humor and her heart were the perfect counterpart to Grant’s “Darcyishness” and created the ideal setup for some sizzling chemistry between them!
The Suspect’s Daughter has it all – romance, suspense, great characters, skilled writing, and some quite spectacular kisses. I thoroughly enjoyed each aspect of this novel and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to fans of historical fiction, particularly the Regency era. If you like Julianne Donaldson, Julie Klassen, or Sarah E. Ladd, then you will want to read Donna Hatch’s Rogue series for sure!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Anyway… ahem … back to the review in question.
The Suspect’s Daughter, though the fourth book in Hatch’s Rogue Hearts series, can easily be read as a standalone. I had no problems at all following the characters even though I haven’t yet the preceding three books. (I can assure you that I nevertheless will be correcting this oversight at the first available opportunity! Especially if all the Rogues kiss like Grant… )
Speaking of Grant, he is one of those Mr. Darcy/Beast type heroes that for some reason we all love in fiction but would loathe in reality lol. But seeing as how we’re talking about fiction… he makes quite the dreamy gruff and reticent hero. Who fights crime. And saves lives. And has a tender heart under his grumpy exterior. I mean… SWOON!
And Jocelyn – I adored her too. She’s spunky, determined, not stick-thin (can I get an amen?) and truly cares about the people around her. Her humor and her heart were the perfect counterpart to Grant’s “Darcyishness” and created the ideal setup for some sizzling chemistry between them!
The Suspect’s Daughter has it all – romance, suspense, great characters, skilled writing, and some quite spectacular kisses. I thoroughly enjoyed each aspect of this novel and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to fans of historical fiction, particularly the Regency era. If you like Julianne Donaldson, Julie Klassen, or Sarah E. Ladd, then you will want to read Donna Hatch’s Rogue series for sure!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
December 17, 2015
I was privileged to be a beta reader for this story, an invitation I was eager to accept. Grant Amesbury has always been the most intriguing of the Amesbury brothers to me. Dark, cynical, mysterious, dangerous, bitter towards his brothers, but in a pinch, always there for them. Is he a hero or a villain? We finally get to find out in Donna Hatch’s fourth Rogue Hearts romance, “The Prime Suspect’s Daughter.” Readers (including me!) who have waited long for this story will not be disappointed. The plot is filled with mystery and danger (appropriate for a mysterious, dangerous character like Grant Amesbury, of course), with twists and turns that will keep readers hooked page after wonderful page.
The beautiful Jocelyn is everything that Grant is not: joyful, optimistic, and filled with light. Can she fill the dark recesses of Grant’s nature with her light, or will his darkness overwhelm her? To her credit, the author does not take the easy road out to this answer, but makes both characters fight for every shred of happiness they achieve in the end. Which, of course, only makes that ending all the more satisfying. Wonderful in every way!
The beautiful Jocelyn is everything that Grant is not: joyful, optimistic, and filled with light. Can she fill the dark recesses of Grant’s nature with her light, or will his darkness overwhelm her? To her credit, the author does not take the easy road out to this answer, but makes both characters fight for every shred of happiness they achieve in the end. Which, of course, only makes that ending all the more satisfying. Wonderful in every way!
February 18, 2016
This is Book 4 in the Rogue Hearts series. I was planning to re-read the first three books before reading this book, but I didn't want to wait any longer to read Grant's story so I went straight to Book 4! This book could be a standalone, but I would recommend reading the other books.
Grant has always been the black sheep of the family, but he has always come and helped his family when they have needed him. In this book we learn why he keeps family and women at a distance.
His latest assignment has him investigating Lord Fairly so he has to go back to his "gentleman" roots to blend in and get closer to Lord Fairly. Which inadvertently gets him closer to Lord Fairly's daughter, Jocelyn... Grant walks a fine line between getting close enough to the family to covertly investigate the father without giving them any reason to believe he would be a desirable match for the daughter.
I loved Jocelyn! She is caring, perceptive, forgiving, and brave with a perpetually sunny disposition. She knows that Grant would make a terrible husband, but she can't help feeling attracted to him. She is always trying to get him to smile without stepping into his darkness. The more she gets to know Grant, the more clearly she sees how good his heart really is and the more determined she is to help him see it, too.
Grant has never met a woman like Jocelyn. At first he isn't sure if he's annoyed or charmed by her continual happiness. He had sworn to never place himself under the power of a woman, yet he finds himself constantly protecting Jocelyn and even confiding in her. Even as he realizes he is starting to really like her, he avoids her because he refuses to let his darkness extinguish her light.
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon.com
Grant has always been the black sheep of the family, but he has always come and helped his family when they have needed him. In this book we learn why he keeps family and women at a distance.
His latest assignment has him investigating Lord Fairly so he has to go back to his "gentleman" roots to blend in and get closer to Lord Fairly. Which inadvertently gets him closer to Lord Fairly's daughter, Jocelyn... Grant walks a fine line between getting close enough to the family to covertly investigate the father without giving them any reason to believe he would be a desirable match for the daughter.
I loved Jocelyn! She is caring, perceptive, forgiving, and brave with a perpetually sunny disposition. She knows that Grant would make a terrible husband, but she can't help feeling attracted to him. She is always trying to get him to smile without stepping into his darkness. The more she gets to know Grant, the more clearly she sees how good his heart really is and the more determined she is to help him see it, too.
Grant has never met a woman like Jocelyn. At first he isn't sure if he's annoyed or charmed by her continual happiness. He had sworn to never place himself under the power of a woman, yet he finds himself constantly protecting Jocelyn and even confiding in her. Even as he realizes he is starting to really like her, he avoids her because he refuses to let his darkness extinguish her light.
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon.com
March 10, 2016
Swoon....sigh
A beautiful ending to the Amesbury brothers stories. I was quickly drawn in and enjoyed every minute. I've been wanting to know what Grant's story was from the very beginning and I ended up absolutely adoring it. I love how the author has the ability to completely transport you to another time....another world. Beautifully written. Cherished characters. I'm just sad it's over. I would LOVE to see Jackson get his story!
A beautiful ending to the Amesbury brothers stories. I was quickly drawn in and enjoyed every minute. I've been wanting to know what Grant's story was from the very beginning and I ended up absolutely adoring it. I love how the author has the ability to completely transport you to another time....another world. Beautifully written. Cherished characters. I'm just sad it's over. I would LOVE to see Jackson get his story!
December 19, 2015
I've enjoyed all the books in this series and this is no exception. I've been dying to hear Grant's story after all the hints about him in the first three books. The love story is a great cross of "opposites attract" and love heals". This will go on my to-reread shelf.
June 1, 2017
Once again, another one of Donna's books sucked me in! I really enjoyed reading Grant's story and grew to love each of these characters. Donna has a way of writing romance that just makes you want to read more!
April 12, 2019
The Suspect’s Daughter is the fourth installment from Donna Hatch’s series, Rogue Hearts. This is my favorite of the series to date. I felt a connection to Jocelyn right the start. I loved it when she was Grant. The action, adventure, mystery, suspense and romance were a perfect combination to the story.
I give The Suspect’s Daughter five plus stars. I am excited to find out that there is a fifth book in the Rogue Hearts series. I can not wait to find out what happens next.
Great read!
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my honest opinion.
I give The Suspect’s Daughter five plus stars. I am excited to find out that there is a fifth book in the Rogue Hearts series. I can not wait to find out what happens next.
Great read!
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my honest opinion.
April 20, 2016
This was a good book that finished out the Amesbury brothers. I am hoping there will be the sisters story in this collection one day. This was about the most broken of the brothers Grant. I liked how his character never changed he was gruff and off putting throughout the book. Someone who has been threw so much doesn't change easily and Grant holds true. I love how the author even has the leading lady understand that the proposal she might one day get from him will be unconventional just like he is. I liked both characters and liked the story line. It was made more interesting when you find out it is based on true events. I really like almost anything Donna writes:}
February 8, 2016
This was a wonderful adventure through love and intrigue. Though part of a wonderful series, it can hold its own as a stand-alone. A full cast, from past books and new to this story, fill in a rich storyline. There is great action, with excellent twists and turns, and a lovely romance. Well researched and well told. The characters are rich, with good and bad characteristics that make them relatable and worthy of rooting for. Hatch has done it again with another wonderful book I'd highly recommend. It makes me want to sit and marathon read the whole series.
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June 11, 2016
Grant works undercover as a Bow Street Runner. He investigates Jocelyn's father, a suspect in plans to kill the prime minister. I love how brooding Grant finds cheerful Jocelyn annoying at first. The story advances the investigation as well as the romance in equal parts. I was curious how Jocelyn would take it when she discovered Grant's true intentions in investigating her father. The ending was well done. This was an enjoyable read.
December 31, 2015
Donna Hatch, oh how I've missed you. Sooooo good.
July 3, 2016
This entire series has been great, but I think Grant has been my favorite.... And Jocelyn was awesome. I think I need to reread the first 2 in the series again.
April 5, 2017
I love this book, this series and those macho Amesbury boys!!!! They just suck you right in and you can't stop reading! This is the last of the brothers -- the next two books will be the sisters.
One of the things I was disappointed in was that the other brothers and sisters weren't featured in this very much at all. I like it when they all get together and rescue each other as they did in the other books.
Grant has intrigued me since the beginning of the series. He has been a crusty curmudgeon who allows himself no soft feelings nor does he allow anyone to show him any soft feelings. We finally learn why in this book. Yes, much of it came from the war, but he was already primed for that because of the way his father treated them.
Since his return from the war, Grant has become a protector of the innocent by working with Bow Street Runners. In this case, he is requested to investigate a member of parliament who is trying to be the next Prime Minister. That candidate, of course, has a lovely daughter who is absolutely sure her father is innocent of the crime.
Jocelyn is full of optimism and sunshine. She always has a smile and sees only the very best in Grant. She finds all of those dark places in his heart and fills them with her sunshine. Jocelyn isn't your ordinary empty-headed miss. She's smart, courageous, steady and utterly convinced her father is innocent and she'll help Grant investigate in order to prove it.
There are a couple of really interesting characters that have been in the series and I wonder what will become of them. Maybe they'll be the ones that the two sisters end up with. James Ingle has a history of some sort with Rachel, evidently he broke her heart, but it isn't ever really spelled out. Then, there is Connor Jackson and I really like him! He's a Bow Street Runner, but he speaks like an aristocrat, has a signet ring and went to school at Cambridge. I sure would like to know more about his story.
I'm sad that I now have to wait for the next book - Margaret's - to be released. But, I am so glad I read this series!
One of the things I was disappointed in was that the other brothers and sisters weren't featured in this very much at all. I like it when they all get together and rescue each other as they did in the other books.
Grant has intrigued me since the beginning of the series. He has been a crusty curmudgeon who allows himself no soft feelings nor does he allow anyone to show him any soft feelings. We finally learn why in this book. Yes, much of it came from the war, but he was already primed for that because of the way his father treated them.
Since his return from the war, Grant has become a protector of the innocent by working with Bow Street Runners. In this case, he is requested to investigate a member of parliament who is trying to be the next Prime Minister. That candidate, of course, has a lovely daughter who is absolutely sure her father is innocent of the crime.
Jocelyn is full of optimism and sunshine. She always has a smile and sees only the very best in Grant. She finds all of those dark places in his heart and fills them with her sunshine. Jocelyn isn't your ordinary empty-headed miss. She's smart, courageous, steady and utterly convinced her father is innocent and she'll help Grant investigate in order to prove it.
There are a couple of really interesting characters that have been in the series and I wonder what will become of them. Maybe they'll be the ones that the two sisters end up with. James Ingle has a history of some sort with Rachel, evidently he broke her heart, but it isn't ever really spelled out. Then, there is Connor Jackson and I really like him! He's a Bow Street Runner, but he speaks like an aristocrat, has a signet ring and went to school at Cambridge. I sure would like to know more about his story.
I'm sad that I now have to wait for the next book - Margaret's - to be released. But, I am so glad I read this series!
April 24, 2019
Book 4 of the series! And I was super curious about this one because I wanted to understand Grant who is the hermit and detached brother of the group.
The story follows Grant who goes undercover to figure out who plans on murdering the prime minister. The number 1 suspect is Jocelyn's father. All signs point to him, BUT there are doubts. Jocelyn seems perfect for Grant, but Grant has a lot of issues especially with women so he is not at all looking for love.
This took me a long time to really get into the story. I wasn't feeling it at first, but after a certain event and after Grant did something my heart melted to him and the story. He actually reminded me a little bit of my BF.
I liked Jocelyn too even though she seemed soooo perfect to start off with. Once you get to see her more you realize she is good at putting a face of perfection.
The mystery was good! I was unsure about Jocelyn's father. I went back and forth if I thought if he was innocent or not. Yayy for keeping me on my toes! Also, the twist was good and I did NOT expect the event to happen at the end. So good! So good!
Overall, this was a quick one, but a pretty good one. The beginning was a little rough there, but you do get drawn in. It takes a hot minute to warm up to Grant and it fits, to be honest. The mystery was good and the ending was good. I shall stamp this with 4 stars.
The story follows Grant who goes undercover to figure out who plans on murdering the prime minister. The number 1 suspect is Jocelyn's father. All signs point to him, BUT there are doubts. Jocelyn seems perfect for Grant, but Grant has a lot of issues especially with women so he is not at all looking for love.
This took me a long time to really get into the story. I wasn't feeling it at first, but after a certain event and after Grant did something my heart melted to him and the story. He actually reminded me a little bit of my BF.
I liked Jocelyn too even though she seemed soooo perfect to start off with. Once you get to see her more you realize she is good at putting a face of perfection.
The mystery was good! I was unsure about Jocelyn's father. I went back and forth if I thought if he was innocent or not. Yayy for keeping me on my toes! Also, the twist was good and I did NOT expect the event to happen at the end. So good! So good!
Overall, this was a quick one, but a pretty good one. The beginning was a little rough there, but you do get drawn in. It takes a hot minute to warm up to Grant and it fits, to be honest. The mystery was good and the ending was good. I shall stamp this with 4 stars.
November 26, 2020
I was so excited to read Grant’s story. He’s brooding, rude and has quite a few skeletons in his closet. He likes his solitary and would prefer to safely lock his emotions away than risk being hurt.
Jocelyn was a ray of sunshine. She had such a cheerful and positive disposition, at the same time, she was intelligent, perceptive and possessed a great measure of courage.
Grant was so distrustful of women that it was hard for him to believe that Jocelyn was as sincere as she appeared. They were polar opposites but her personality was just what he needed to lower his emotional defenses and soften his heart.
Their relationship and feelings progressed sweetly and was believable. I admired Jocelyn’s patience and persistence, in proving to Grant that he could trust her with his heart. It was also really sweet to see how protective he was of her. I enjoyed watching his defenses slowly crumble.
Cole’s story is still my favorite but i did enjoy Grant and Jocelyn’s story.
Content: Clean, kissing
April 26, 2017
I have been savoring Donna Hatch's excellent Regency romances for several years now, and this one is no less wonderful than the others. Grant Amesbury embodies all that is swoon-worthy. He is a man of courage and passion, tough as leather but with a deep, affectionate core. I admire the way Ms. Hatch is so consistent in portraying his pain hardened character all the way through until the end when he begins to transform for love. She has also done a wonderful job portraying a heroine I could admire and relate to. I loved the book from start to finish. A beautiful romance. A must read.
September 26, 2020
Hatch always manages to wring out so much emotion in her books! Poor Grant! We've seen him in the stories of the other brothers, so we know he's got some kind of inner demon. Seeing him in action is quite the eyeopener. But what a good heart the man has in spite of the things he's done and still isn't afraid to do.
But Jocelyn's sweet heart is just what he needs to soften his rough edges. But after the betrayal by a woman he loved, he's got to trust first.
*sigh*
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was adequate.
But Jocelyn's sweet heart is just what he needs to soften his rough edges. But after the betrayal by a woman he loved, he's got to trust first.
*sigh*
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was adequate.
May 5, 2022
Loved Grant’s story! Great pace and fun chemistry with characters.
January 9, 2016
I must concede that I am a young adult book reviewer. But interestingly, my forays into reviews of adult literature have wandered smack into some form of historical fiction. Now, here I am, strolling into the realm of Regency romance novels. For my usual YA readers, you do not need to puzzle about the conventions of a Regency romance novel. Just think Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice but written now. There you go; you are ready for The Suspect’s Daughter by Donna Hatch.
And one more confession: I have not read any other books in the “Rogue Hearts” series with its interrelated characters. That will be corrected. The Suspect’s Daughter is the fourth in the series. Now, on to the review…
Jocelyn Fairley (The Suspect’s Daughter) critiques her father’s London home in her last minute walk-through ensuring all is ready for the ball that will catapult her father into the office of Prime Minister of England. As she inspects, a light in the study alarms her and she cat-paws into the room only to have her mouth clamped by a large hand, “an unyielding force push[es] her back against the wall,” and another hand at her throat….coarse coat and voice, contrasting hint of mint and bergamot, a threat, and jump from a window. Jocelyn is left alone in the study with nothing taken, not even her pearl necklace at her throat. Showing her pluck, she walks to the window to lock it, tidies herself, and marches to the drawing room to host her father’s ball, determined that this is his season to govern and to wed again. Jocelyn’s prospects are nil. In fact the man who attacked her with his big hands, broad chest and low voice is the closest she had been to man in a year.
Grant Amesbury landed outside the Fairley house, disgusted. Despite how he feels about women, he has never threatened any woman. Tonight he sunk to a new low. His mission is foiled. Nonetheless, that night he would find himself back in the same home with a vastly different mission.
And so, the game begins between Grant Amesbury, Napoleonic Wars veteran and aristocrat, and Jocelyn Fairley, the privileged and guileless daughter. In true Regency form, conversations between protagonists entertain the reader. Practices of “the ton” (The higher classes of England) juxtapose the depravity of street life. The manners of the times clash with true feelings.
Grant is the gallant but bitter war hero who is plagued by “vent du boulet” (PTSS) and scars from a personal treason. Despite his heritage, he chooses to live alone in London assisting a local magistrate, and tries to save a young local prostitute from the profession. He vents incessantly over the betrayal of women, he never smiles, he rejects his family, and he is ferociously loyal to his friend and his cause. And yes, he needs to be tempted to dance.
Jocelyn is a capable young woman, runs a peer’s household in two locations, cares for tenants, improves people’s situations without permission or blessing, shows bravery and nerve, and berates herself for not having an amazing waif-like figure like most women of the time.
Well, this is a Regency romance so there is no doubt about the building action of this plot. The joy in reading is the delicate dance to arrive at the climax of this relationship story. Luckily, there are still questions to answer at the conclusion of the novel to be tickled in another novel.
I enjoy the immersion into the society of London, and the allusions to practices of the peers. I appreciate that the chalking of ball floors, seasons, squabs, runners, wastrel, chit, light-skirts, whist, faro, vingt-et-un, loo, and other lingo of the day lightly skip as stones on a pond rather than sink in the detail of definitions on-page. Also, Regency romances prove that love off-page can be as powerful as on-page.
On the suggestions side, I grew tired of Grant’s endless venting about women. There were three prepositional typos that a spellcheck would not catch, but the story was not compromised. In chapter seven Fairley was once written as Fairly.
The runners of Bow Street intrigue me. I did a little research discovering that the runners of London preceded the peelers of London. Sir Robert Peel’s peelers started around 1829, just a few years after this novel. If you want to travel forward in time and enjoy an quirky fantasy novel with peelers, the reader might want to follow up The Suspect’s Daughter with Dodger by Sir Terry Pratchett.
I was requested to post an honest review based on my reading of the ebook.
And one more confession: I have not read any other books in the “Rogue Hearts” series with its interrelated characters. That will be corrected. The Suspect’s Daughter is the fourth in the series. Now, on to the review…
Jocelyn Fairley (The Suspect’s Daughter) critiques her father’s London home in her last minute walk-through ensuring all is ready for the ball that will catapult her father into the office of Prime Minister of England. As she inspects, a light in the study alarms her and she cat-paws into the room only to have her mouth clamped by a large hand, “an unyielding force push[es] her back against the wall,” and another hand at her throat….coarse coat and voice, contrasting hint of mint and bergamot, a threat, and jump from a window. Jocelyn is left alone in the study with nothing taken, not even her pearl necklace at her throat. Showing her pluck, she walks to the window to lock it, tidies herself, and marches to the drawing room to host her father’s ball, determined that this is his season to govern and to wed again. Jocelyn’s prospects are nil. In fact the man who attacked her with his big hands, broad chest and low voice is the closest she had been to man in a year.
Grant Amesbury landed outside the Fairley house, disgusted. Despite how he feels about women, he has never threatened any woman. Tonight he sunk to a new low. His mission is foiled. Nonetheless, that night he would find himself back in the same home with a vastly different mission.
And so, the game begins between Grant Amesbury, Napoleonic Wars veteran and aristocrat, and Jocelyn Fairley, the privileged and guileless daughter. In true Regency form, conversations between protagonists entertain the reader. Practices of “the ton” (The higher classes of England) juxtapose the depravity of street life. The manners of the times clash with true feelings.
Grant is the gallant but bitter war hero who is plagued by “vent du boulet” (PTSS) and scars from a personal treason. Despite his heritage, he chooses to live alone in London assisting a local magistrate, and tries to save a young local prostitute from the profession. He vents incessantly over the betrayal of women, he never smiles, he rejects his family, and he is ferociously loyal to his friend and his cause. And yes, he needs to be tempted to dance.
Jocelyn is a capable young woman, runs a peer’s household in two locations, cares for tenants, improves people’s situations without permission or blessing, shows bravery and nerve, and berates herself for not having an amazing waif-like figure like most women of the time.
Well, this is a Regency romance so there is no doubt about the building action of this plot. The joy in reading is the delicate dance to arrive at the climax of this relationship story. Luckily, there are still questions to answer at the conclusion of the novel to be tickled in another novel.
I enjoy the immersion into the society of London, and the allusions to practices of the peers. I appreciate that the chalking of ball floors, seasons, squabs, runners, wastrel, chit, light-skirts, whist, faro, vingt-et-un, loo, and other lingo of the day lightly skip as stones on a pond rather than sink in the detail of definitions on-page. Also, Regency romances prove that love off-page can be as powerful as on-page.
On the suggestions side, I grew tired of Grant’s endless venting about women. There were three prepositional typos that a spellcheck would not catch, but the story was not compromised. In chapter seven Fairley was once written as Fairly.
The runners of Bow Street intrigue me. I did a little research discovering that the runners of London preceded the peelers of London. Sir Robert Peel’s peelers started around 1829, just a few years after this novel. If you want to travel forward in time and enjoy an quirky fantasy novel with peelers, the reader might want to follow up The Suspect’s Daughter with Dodger by Sir Terry Pratchett.
I was requested to post an honest review based on my reading of the ebook.
March 22, 2017
Yay, Grant's story! Love these Amesbury boys. Out of all the brothers, Grant is the one who is so closed up, so it took a really special lady to crack that open in him. Jocelyn was the perfect character to do this. I loved that she wasn't depicted like the "norms of Hollywood", but as a regular person with curves! Not to mention what a good heart both Grant and Jocelyn have. Perfect match!
February 14, 2023
My favorite book of this series, and one of my all-time favorites. I love the two main characters. A story of betrayal and how unconditional love redeems a shattered soul.
January 11, 2016
I received a free copy of The Suspect’s Daughter by Loving the Book in exchange for an honest review. I have never read anything by this author, but I honestly really enjoyed this story in its entirety. The story begins with a woman named Jocelyn. She discovers that someone has broken into her father’s study and then this man threatens her against informing anyone of his whereabouts. Thinking that she may be a servant, the man dashes away leaving Jocelyn frantic—right before hosting a big event in her father’s favor. Upon uncovering a ploy to murder the prime minister, Grant Amesbury breaks into the suspect’s study in hopes of finding some evidence to back up the claim, only to discover that he is not alone but a woman has found him. After his escape, he heads back to his Bow Street office to reconsider his plan—little does he know that the plan basically falls into his lap, drunkenly disheveled and in need of assistance getting home…the one and only home that leads him back to Jocelyn. Will she suspect that he is the man that threatened her life? More importantly, with such serious political accusations arising—will Grant be able to stop the murder or is it just rumors to end someone’s political success once and for all.
My favorite characters are Grant and Jocelyn, the two main characters. Both characters have personalities that are wonderfully intriguing, yet frustrating at times as well. Jocelyn is the beautiful, curvy, kind and strong lady of the house. She is not like other women of that status who only care about their appearance and selfish behavior. Jocelyn has dedicated herself to her father’s political career. By hosting events, she has more to her than Grant’s original assumption. Grant is closed-off, strong, handsome, scarred and completely lonely. With his stand-offish demeanor, he was quite frustrating at times. I loved reading about both characters as the investigation progressed. My least favorite character was a passing memory of the woman who made Grant the way he has accustomed himself to be.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story! I can’t wait to read the others in her Rogue Hearts Series. This book is so exciting and I just couldn’t get enough of these characters. The author does a superb job with character development and the pace was fast-paced which is wonderful. The only downfall that made me reconsider my rating of this book is the grammatical and spelling errors. There were more than I would like to have seen. In my opinion, the target audience for this story would be adults who enjoy historical romance with a hint of mystery. This book can be read as a standalone and I would definitely recommend it to others. I rate The Suspect’s Daughter with four stars since it was highly enjoyable. The content is original and the plot is very creative. I look forward to going back and reading the first three installments in this series.
My favorite characters are Grant and Jocelyn, the two main characters. Both characters have personalities that are wonderfully intriguing, yet frustrating at times as well. Jocelyn is the beautiful, curvy, kind and strong lady of the house. She is not like other women of that status who only care about their appearance and selfish behavior. Jocelyn has dedicated herself to her father’s political career. By hosting events, she has more to her than Grant’s original assumption. Grant is closed-off, strong, handsome, scarred and completely lonely. With his stand-offish demeanor, he was quite frustrating at times. I loved reading about both characters as the investigation progressed. My least favorite character was a passing memory of the woman who made Grant the way he has accustomed himself to be.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story! I can’t wait to read the others in her Rogue Hearts Series. This book is so exciting and I just couldn’t get enough of these characters. The author does a superb job with character development and the pace was fast-paced which is wonderful. The only downfall that made me reconsider my rating of this book is the grammatical and spelling errors. There were more than I would like to have seen. In my opinion, the target audience for this story would be adults who enjoy historical romance with a hint of mystery. This book can be read as a standalone and I would definitely recommend it to others. I rate The Suspect’s Daughter with four stars since it was highly enjoyable. The content is original and the plot is very creative. I look forward to going back and reading the first three installments in this series.
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