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Scarlet Suffragette #1
Fearless
Nicola Claire's captivating new Gothic romance series introduces a dark and sinister early settler New Zealand at the end of the nineteenth century - brightened by a fearless and talented heroine and a loyal and secretive police inspector...
Free spirit. Brilliant. A Liability?
Doctor Anna Cassidy has been trained by the best; the former Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police Force. She knows how to dissect a body. She knows how to treat any ailment. And she knows how to find a cause of death.
But society is not ready for a female surgeon.
Fighting for what she believes in has been ingrained in Anna since she was a young child. But the battles she faces now are not all based on equality. A murderer stalks her fellow Suffragettes and the police inspector in charge of the case could be Anna's downfall.
Experienced. Dedicated. Something to hide?
Inspector Andrew Kelly holds duty and honour in the highest regard. His role as a detective proves just that; he never stops until justice is served. Love is something he has forsaken, for reasons he'd rather you didn't know.
But Anna is not a woman a man can ignore.
Fighting his instincts with cold determination is something Kelly has become accustomed to. But a murderer is loose in his adopted city, bringing memories to the fore of a killer who walked in the shadows of Whitechapel, and shining light on a dark past the Inspector is trying hard to forget.
A gritty, twisted, and authentic Victorian romantic suspense, sure to rip you apart... just like old Jack.
Free spirit. Brilliant. A Liability?
Doctor Anna Cassidy has been trained by the best; the former Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police Force. She knows how to dissect a body. She knows how to treat any ailment. And she knows how to find a cause of death.
But society is not ready for a female surgeon.
Fighting for what she believes in has been ingrained in Anna since she was a young child. But the battles she faces now are not all based on equality. A murderer stalks her fellow Suffragettes and the police inspector in charge of the case could be Anna's downfall.
Experienced. Dedicated. Something to hide?
Inspector Andrew Kelly holds duty and honour in the highest regard. His role as a detective proves just that; he never stops until justice is served. Love is something he has forsaken, for reasons he'd rather you didn't know.
But Anna is not a woman a man can ignore.
Fighting his instincts with cold determination is something Kelly has become accustomed to. But a murderer is loose in his adopted city, bringing memories to the fore of a killer who walked in the shadows of Whitechapel, and shining light on a dark past the Inspector is trying hard to forget.
A gritty, twisted, and authentic Victorian romantic suspense, sure to rip you apart... just like old Jack.
ebook
First published June 28, 2015
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About the author
Nicola Claire
137 books737 followersNicola Claire lives in beautiful Taupo, New Zealand with her husband, two teenage boys and a Miniature Schnauzer named Rudy.
A bit of a romance junkie, she can be known to devour as many as half a dozen books a week if she drinks too much coffee. But her real passion is writing sexy, romantic suspense stories with strong female leads and alpha male protagonists who know how to love them.
So far, she’s written well over 70 books. She might have caught the writing bug; here’s hoping there’s no cure!
A bit of a romance junkie, she can be known to devour as many as half a dozen books a week if she drinks too much coffee. But her real passion is writing sexy, romantic suspense stories with strong female leads and alpha male protagonists who know how to love them.
So far, she’s written well over 70 books. She might have caught the writing bug; here’s hoping there’s no cure!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
October 8, 2016
4 Jack the Ripper stars
I haven't been in the mood to write reviews lately but I felt like I had to write a few lines for this book as I'm still thinking about it.
This book has a very interesting premise. A female surgeon in an era where women were considered nothing more than convenient furniture. A woman fighting to be recognized for her skills and to take over her fathers work as Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police Force. A Suffragette demanding equality in a patriarchal and condescending society.
I think we forget how much these women fought for what we enjoy today. I'm not saying that we have gained true equality but they did give us the gift of choice when they had none and we should be grateful for it. A talk for another time. Back to the book.
Doctor Anna Cassidy and her fellow Suffragettes get in the cross hairs of a deranged murderer. In an era where there is no DNA and fingerprints one has to rely on logic, clues and determination to find a killer.
Anna is above all a fighter. Her father trained her as a doctor and she is determined to take his place after he passes away. Living with her delicate cousin Wilhelmina she struggles with her place in society and yearns for her fathers support. A staunch supporter of the Suffragette movement Anna recruits her cousin and several friends to the movement she so strongly believes in. Most follow her lead not because they are avid supporters but because they respect and love Anna. When the Suffragettes start dying Anna feels compelled to assist in saving them. She turns to Inspector Kelly to offer her assistance.
Inspector Kelly is a man with his own deep, dark secrets. Drowning in his own darkness he is unable to resist Anna but equally determined not to drag her down with him. His duty is his calling and he is driven to find the killer. After all, he has experience that not a lot of people can claim. He was part of the task force hunting down Jack the Ripper. A strong and fierce protector for Anna but also somewhat conflicted by his need to shelter Anna but also support her in her independence and fight for her rights.
It is exceptionally well written but for me it had it's ups and downs. Like the whole "I want you but I don't deserve you" trope which is something that I personally am getting tired of. There were also several points where the story lagged or slowed down for them to introspect which again I found tiring. And my final gripe is we never get a clear picture or details of how their relationship or I should say association started. We know Inspector Kelly was a very good friend of her fathers but I would have loved to read when they first met, when Anna realized she had feelings for him, all those little things. There's very much a pull and push situation between them and at times I just wanted to hug Anna and kick his shins.
I would also have loved reading more about how the colonials dealt and lived with the natives of New Zealand. I wont add spoilers* or comment on the plot it's self as I believe anything I say might detract from the enjoyment of the plot. It is after all a hunt for a murderer.
If you are fascinated with the story of Jack the Ripper I would unreservedly recommend this. It's worth a spot on the shelf next to the others of it's genre.
*
I haven't been in the mood to write reviews lately but I felt like I had to write a few lines for this book as I'm still thinking about it.
This book has a very interesting premise. A female surgeon in an era where women were considered nothing more than convenient furniture. A woman fighting to be recognized for her skills and to take over her fathers work as Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police Force. A Suffragette demanding equality in a patriarchal and condescending society.
I think we forget how much these women fought for what we enjoy today. I'm not saying that we have gained true equality but they did give us the gift of choice when they had none and we should be grateful for it. A talk for another time. Back to the book.
Doctor Anna Cassidy and her fellow Suffragettes get in the cross hairs of a deranged murderer. In an era where there is no DNA and fingerprints one has to rely on logic, clues and determination to find a killer.
Anna is above all a fighter. Her father trained her as a doctor and she is determined to take his place after he passes away. Living with her delicate cousin Wilhelmina she struggles with her place in society and yearns for her fathers support. A staunch supporter of the Suffragette movement Anna recruits her cousin and several friends to the movement she so strongly believes in. Most follow her lead not because they are avid supporters but because they respect and love Anna. When the Suffragettes start dying Anna feels compelled to assist in saving them. She turns to Inspector Kelly to offer her assistance.
Inspector Kelly is a man with his own deep, dark secrets. Drowning in his own darkness he is unable to resist Anna but equally determined not to drag her down with him. His duty is his calling and he is driven to find the killer. After all, he has experience that not a lot of people can claim. He was part of the task force hunting down Jack the Ripper. A strong and fierce protector for Anna but also somewhat conflicted by his need to shelter Anna but also support her in her independence and fight for her rights.
It is exceptionally well written but for me it had it's ups and downs. Like the whole "I want you but I don't deserve you" trope which is something that I personally am getting tired of. There were also several points where the story lagged or slowed down for them to introspect which again I found tiring. And my final gripe is we never get a clear picture or details of how their relationship or I should say association started. We know Inspector Kelly was a very good friend of her fathers but I would have loved to read when they first met, when Anna realized she had feelings for him, all those little things. There's very much a pull and push situation between them and at times I just wanted to hug Anna and kick his shins.
I would also have loved reading more about how the colonials dealt and lived with the natives of New Zealand. I wont add spoilers* or comment on the plot it's self as I believe anything I say might detract from the enjoyment of the plot. It is after all a hunt for a murderer.
If you are fascinated with the story of Jack the Ripper I would unreservedly recommend this. It's worth a spot on the shelf next to the others of it's genre.
*
scarlet-suffragette-series
May 22, 2016Oh, this was so much fun to write. And not just write, but research and live, throwing myself into early settler New Zealand, immersing myself in a time and place that forms part of my very own history.
The Scarlet Suffragette series is not your average historical romance, this one's gritty and sinister, twisted and a little dark. I like to say it's Whitechapel meets early settler New Zealand, Jack The Ripper mixed up with Suffragettes.
It's the type of historical romance I've always wanted to read, but could never find. And hopefully the type of historical romance you might love! ;)
For more information about Scarlet Suffragette and my other Romance Series, please visit my website: http://www.nicolaclairebooks.com/
The Scarlet Suffragette series is not your average historical romance, this one's gritty and sinister, twisted and a little dark. I like to say it's Whitechapel meets early settler New Zealand, Jack The Ripper mixed up with Suffragettes.
It's the type of historical romance I've always wanted to read, but could never find. And hopefully the type of historical romance you might love! ;)
For more information about Scarlet Suffragette and my other Romance Series, please visit my website: http://www.nicolaclairebooks.com/
April 25, 2016
In a word, Awesome
It's so much fun to read novels set in our end of the world, even though Auckland is NZ and I live in Australia. Nationally, we are first cousins. First off, it's well written and edited. Secondly, it's a great mystery. I first thought I knew the killer, then thought the person must be a red herring, but I never guessed the real killer.
Secondly, the world of Victorian Auckland is well realised. Even the little detail of Anna continually ruining her gloves with blood. In our world, we say, "Why bother with them" but in her world, to go outside without her gloves on marked her as NOY A LADY.
Thirdly, the characters are terrific. We get two POV, Anna's and Andrew's. Neither of them are perfect but very human, very attractive and the love between them is palpable. But. And this But will retain the tension between them for quite some time I suspect.
Panting for the second volume.
It's so much fun to read novels set in our end of the world, even though Auckland is NZ and I live in Australia. Nationally, we are first cousins. First off, it's well written and edited. Secondly, it's a great mystery. I first thought I knew the killer, then thought the person must be a red herring, but I never guessed the real killer.
Secondly, the world of Victorian Auckland is well realised. Even the little detail of Anna continually ruining her gloves with blood. In our world, we say, "Why bother with them" but in her world, to go outside without her gloves on marked her as NOY A LADY.
Thirdly, the characters are terrific. We get two POV, Anna's and Andrew's. Neither of them are perfect but very human, very attractive and the love between them is palpable. But. And this But will retain the tension between them for quite some time I suspect.
Panting for the second volume.
November 15, 2017
Hero is married. Present tense....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
November 13, 2017FREE on Amazon today (11/13/2017)!
June 25, 2018
Disappointed in that ending and I guess the ending and romance is going to span the trilogy.
March 26, 2023
4.5 stars
Initial reaction:
The ending was freaking incredible. There were so many secrets revealed as well as the twist with who the killer was. It is a blew my mind. I was enjoying the book overall but the end one is just what put it over the top. I am why I gave it a 4.5 stars. It was so good and it kind of left on a cliffhanger because because now I have to know what happens between Andrew and Anna because after this one, I don’t know where they are headed, but I need them together because I loved that part of the story.
Review:
Overall though I really liked the Jack the Ripper references. I liked the Victorian time, and all the issues with Anna being a doctor, but not given a chance, because they didn’t think a woman should do such things. I loved the relationship between Andrew and Anna. I was rooting for them all the way. And the romance that was in here between them was great and so much more after that cliffhanger wow it’s gonna be hard to see them finding a way back to each other. But I loved seeing them work to get here to solve this case and just the bond and love that they had for each other. The mystery was really good and kept me on my toes. It was just enough suspense, and mystery balanced with the romance and the issues of the time period. And I just adored it by books end. It was just so good and I am ready to read the next one in this series.
Initial reaction:
The ending was freaking incredible. There were so many secrets revealed as well as the twist with who the killer was. It is a blew my mind. I was enjoying the book overall but the end one is just what put it over the top. I am why I gave it a 4.5 stars. It was so good and it kind of left on a cliffhanger because because now I have to know what happens between Andrew and Anna because after this one, I don’t know where they are headed, but I need them together because I loved that part of the story.
Review:
Overall though I really liked the Jack the Ripper references. I liked the Victorian time, and all the issues with Anna being a doctor, but not given a chance, because they didn’t think a woman should do such things. I loved the relationship between Andrew and Anna. I was rooting for them all the way. And the romance that was in here between them was great and so much more after that cliffhanger wow it’s gonna be hard to see them finding a way back to each other. But I loved seeing them work to get here to solve this case and just the bond and love that they had for each other. The mystery was really good and kept me on my toes. It was just enough suspense, and mystery balanced with the romance and the issues of the time period. And I just adored it by books end. It was just so good and I am ready to read the next one in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2017
I'm not a historical romance reader. When Nicola announced she was writing an historical romance, I knew I'd read it and the writing would be spot on, but I never expected to love it. Fearless is the catalyst that opened my book world up to a whole new genre. This is elements of true history, with the author's brand of love mixed in. The idea is intriguing because we not only get the love story we can't live without, but we also get a peek into a time lightyears away from what we know, but that has shaped our present in both significant and insignificant ways.
Summary:
Doctor Anna Cassidy was trained by the best: the former Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police, and her father. She knows her way around the human body, whether it be diagnosing, treating, dissecting, or finding cause of death. Unfortunately, the time period isn’t conducive to a brilliant female surgeon or a woman so free spirited. Anna has the almost impossible task of showing society that she can be just as successful, if not more than, a man. Anna is a strong woman with strong beliefs, and she’s no stranger to fighting for what she believes in, but society’s idea of equality isn’t the only obstacle she must face. A vicious murderer is hunting amongst her fellow suffragettes, and the inspector in charge of the investigation could be Anna’s largest obstacle and her downfall. Inspector Andrew Kelly is a man that believes in justice. His sense of duty and honour ensure that he doesn’t quit until he finds it. With a murderer hunting in his adopted city, the search for truth and justice is even more pronounced. Despite his complete faith and support in Anna’s work and knowledge, Kelly fights to exclude her from the ongoing investigation, but Anna is hardly a woman you can ignore. Both professionally and personally, if the intense physical attraction is anything to go by. Kelly and Anna are bound by a devious killer, showing hints of the killing style utilized by The Ripper himself, and intent on exposing secrets and a past the good Inspector would rather forget and Anna may not be ready for. Can the duo unveil a killer, and do it before mental, physical, or emotional damage is inflicted?
I loved this book. I'd even go so far as to say it's a top read of 2015. From the very start, it was a whole new world, and a huge learning experience. Words, speech, appearance, behavior, laws, everything was new, yet old at the same time. Nicola did an utterly fantastic job interweaving elements of history with her patented brand of love, mystery, and danger. It's so appealing, I know I'll continue to think about the story, the characters, the possibilities, long after I shelve it for reread. I loved Anna. Nicola does not skimp on heroines, and Anna is one of the best. She was indeed fearless. I connected with her strength, courage, determination, and loyalty. Her smarts and talent were a huge draw, and her passion for her profession and cause, pure and inspiring. I found my mind working furiously along with hers, piecing together clues, information, and the scientific aspects, feeling as though a colleague. Inspector Kelly was smart, dedicated, experienced, strong, and a complete mystery. His passion for his profession was just as palpable as Anna's, and he took people's safety seriously. You could truly see his support and belief in Anna, but also his struggle to stay within the confines of society at that time. The mystery clouding his past was sometimes frustrating, not being in the know, but looking back, it was written just how it needed to be. Still, I'm very curious. The romance. Anna and Andrew had a sizzling connection that ebbed and flowed perfectly with their situation. It could be tense and taut with expectation and excitement when the longing became too much or sweetly comfortable and intimate when they were focused on the case. Nicola gives good romance, so despite the very large obstacles in front of our H/h, I have faith everything will work out eventually (*crossing my fingers*). Overall, this was a fantastic read that I will definitely be passing along to all of my reading friends. The integration of history was flawless. It has sparked a minor need for mini history lessons, and Wikipedia has been bombarded. Lol. The Suffragette movement was eye-opening for me. Of course I've studied it, seen the results of our ancestor's hard work, but it is so easy to forget, with the many freedoms we have today, how little input women were given then, and I'm thankful for all that we have today. I loved the descriptive wording. It's miraculous when you can fall into a book and specific scene just from a few words. I could almost swear I was right alongside Anna at the docks. This was like CSI/Criminal Minds, late 1800's style. I loved it! Being in the medical profession and having a love of forensic nursing, I found the murder mystery and the investigation fascinating for this time period. The differences between then and now really are light years apart. Evidence collecting, processing and analysis of a scene were barely in its infancy, and yet they made progress. The whole book was one I didn't want to put down, and yet tried to stretch out just so it wouldn't end. I cannot wait for book two and three, and to find out what happens to our Scarlet Suffragette. <3
Summary:
Doctor Anna Cassidy was trained by the best: the former Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police, and her father. She knows her way around the human body, whether it be diagnosing, treating, dissecting, or finding cause of death. Unfortunately, the time period isn’t conducive to a brilliant female surgeon or a woman so free spirited. Anna has the almost impossible task of showing society that she can be just as successful, if not more than, a man. Anna is a strong woman with strong beliefs, and she’s no stranger to fighting for what she believes in, but society’s idea of equality isn’t the only obstacle she must face. A vicious murderer is hunting amongst her fellow suffragettes, and the inspector in charge of the investigation could be Anna’s largest obstacle and her downfall. Inspector Andrew Kelly is a man that believes in justice. His sense of duty and honour ensure that he doesn’t quit until he finds it. With a murderer hunting in his adopted city, the search for truth and justice is even more pronounced. Despite his complete faith and support in Anna’s work and knowledge, Kelly fights to exclude her from the ongoing investigation, but Anna is hardly a woman you can ignore. Both professionally and personally, if the intense physical attraction is anything to go by. Kelly and Anna are bound by a devious killer, showing hints of the killing style utilized by The Ripper himself, and intent on exposing secrets and a past the good Inspector would rather forget and Anna may not be ready for. Can the duo unveil a killer, and do it before mental, physical, or emotional damage is inflicted?
I loved this book. I'd even go so far as to say it's a top read of 2015. From the very start, it was a whole new world, and a huge learning experience. Words, speech, appearance, behavior, laws, everything was new, yet old at the same time. Nicola did an utterly fantastic job interweaving elements of history with her patented brand of love, mystery, and danger. It's so appealing, I know I'll continue to think about the story, the characters, the possibilities, long after I shelve it for reread. I loved Anna. Nicola does not skimp on heroines, and Anna is one of the best. She was indeed fearless. I connected with her strength, courage, determination, and loyalty. Her smarts and talent were a huge draw, and her passion for her profession and cause, pure and inspiring. I found my mind working furiously along with hers, piecing together clues, information, and the scientific aspects, feeling as though a colleague. Inspector Kelly was smart, dedicated, experienced, strong, and a complete mystery. His passion for his profession was just as palpable as Anna's, and he took people's safety seriously. You could truly see his support and belief in Anna, but also his struggle to stay within the confines of society at that time. The mystery clouding his past was sometimes frustrating, not being in the know, but looking back, it was written just how it needed to be. Still, I'm very curious. The romance. Anna and Andrew had a sizzling connection that ebbed and flowed perfectly with their situation. It could be tense and taut with expectation and excitement when the longing became too much or sweetly comfortable and intimate when they were focused on the case. Nicola gives good romance, so despite the very large obstacles in front of our H/h, I have faith everything will work out eventually (*crossing my fingers*). Overall, this was a fantastic read that I will definitely be passing along to all of my reading friends. The integration of history was flawless. It has sparked a minor need for mini history lessons, and Wikipedia has been bombarded. Lol. The Suffragette movement was eye-opening for me. Of course I've studied it, seen the results of our ancestor's hard work, but it is so easy to forget, with the many freedoms we have today, how little input women were given then, and I'm thankful for all that we have today. I loved the descriptive wording. It's miraculous when you can fall into a book and specific scene just from a few words. I could almost swear I was right alongside Anna at the docks. This was like CSI/Criminal Minds, late 1800's style. I loved it! Being in the medical profession and having a love of forensic nursing, I found the murder mystery and the investigation fascinating for this time period. The differences between then and now really are light years apart. Evidence collecting, processing and analysis of a scene were barely in its infancy, and yet they made progress. The whole book was one I didn't want to put down, and yet tried to stretch out just so it wouldn't end. I cannot wait for book two and three, and to find out what happens to our Scarlet Suffragette. <3
July 4, 2018
I liked this book way better than I thought I was going to! It had spunk and likeable characters and just enough tension between Anna and Kelly that it kept you interested without drowning in it. I've already ordered the next book!
December 5, 2015
The year is 1891. The place is Auckland City, New Zealand.
"Hell is Auckland City on a protest rally day."
Anna Cassidy and her cousin Wilhelmina are part of the Suffragette movement and are protesting for women's right to vote when chaos breaks out. When Wilhelmina faints, and is almost strangled to death by the sandwich board she is wearing, Anna pulls out her switchblade and quickly frees her friend before she is choked to death.
This scene takes place on the first pages of FEARLESS and tells the reader quite a bit about not only the current political climate, but also about Anna. Women in 1891 did not normally carry switchblades, nor were they known for their quick thinking in a crisis. Women of that time period were more likely to swoon and faint than to face adversity head-on. Anna Cassidy is obviously not a typical woman of the 1890s.
This book however is not just a story about the Suffragettes, it is also a suspense thriller with a good dash of gothic romance mixed in."
Nicola Claire has the exceptional talent of bringing her fictional characters to life and of making them seem real to her readers. Little things are added throughout the book that add realism such as Anna's habit 0f "... chewing [her] bottom lip nervously; a habit [her] father had tried unsuccessfully to wean [her] of."
In fact, I love Anna's character. She is a strong (perhaps even willful) woman who will not compromise her beliefs even when it is to her detriment. She is in her middle twenties which was considered an extremely old age for a woman to remain unmarried in 1891. In fact, she is perilously close to being labeled a "spinster".
There is mention of Jack The Ripper in this book and I was worried that this was going to become a major portion of the plot and I am very happy to say that it did not.
I enjoyed the 'who-done-it' aspect of this book and was pleasantly surprised at the ending.
The eBook that I received had just over ten editing/proofreading errors in it which means that based on my own (made-up) rules, that I have to reduce the number of stars I give as a rating for this book. With that in mind, I give FEARLESS a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There are two more books scheduled to be released soon in the Scarlet Suffragette series and I am looking forward to reading more of Anna's adventures.
To see the full review or to read my other reviews visit my blog at http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
"Hell is Auckland City on a protest rally day."
Anna Cassidy and her cousin Wilhelmina are part of the Suffragette movement and are protesting for women's right to vote when chaos breaks out. When Wilhelmina faints, and is almost strangled to death by the sandwich board she is wearing, Anna pulls out her switchblade and quickly frees her friend before she is choked to death.
This scene takes place on the first pages of FEARLESS and tells the reader quite a bit about not only the current political climate, but also about Anna. Women in 1891 did not normally carry switchblades, nor were they known for their quick thinking in a crisis. Women of that time period were more likely to swoon and faint than to face adversity head-on. Anna Cassidy is obviously not a typical woman of the 1890s.
This book however is not just a story about the Suffragettes, it is also a suspense thriller with a good dash of gothic romance mixed in."
Nicola Claire has the exceptional talent of bringing her fictional characters to life and of making them seem real to her readers. Little things are added throughout the book that add realism such as Anna's habit 0f "... chewing [her] bottom lip nervously; a habit [her] father had tried unsuccessfully to wean [her] of."
In fact, I love Anna's character. She is a strong (perhaps even willful) woman who will not compromise her beliefs even when it is to her detriment. She is in her middle twenties which was considered an extremely old age for a woman to remain unmarried in 1891. In fact, she is perilously close to being labeled a "spinster".
There is mention of Jack The Ripper in this book and I was worried that this was going to become a major portion of the plot and I am very happy to say that it did not.
I enjoyed the 'who-done-it' aspect of this book and was pleasantly surprised at the ending.
The eBook that I received had just over ten editing/proofreading errors in it which means that based on my own (made-up) rules, that I have to reduce the number of stars I give as a rating for this book. With that in mind, I give FEARLESS a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There are two more books scheduled to be released soon in the Scarlet Suffragette series and I am looking forward to reading more of Anna's adventures.
To see the full review or to read my other reviews visit my blog at http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
July 8, 2015
Normally if you said try this book it's set in X date. I'd immediately be uninterested. I like future and present set fantasy or murder fiction. However being a huge fan of nicola when I was asked to read this as part of the ARC group I thought hey why not.
So what did I find? As this review title suggests I've really been missing out. Nicola can lay her writing hand to anything she imagines. Her use of language is realistic and sympathetic to the era. I will even be recommending this book to my other half. The plot is gripping and the romance aspect is done really well. I sometimes feel romance can overshadow other aspects of a story so you don't really care what happens. You just asking will they won't they? This was not the case in this story. Incredibly well written!
So what did I find? As this review title suggests I've really been missing out. Nicola can lay her writing hand to anything she imagines. Her use of language is realistic and sympathetic to the era. I will even be recommending this book to my other half. The plot is gripping and the romance aspect is done really well. I sometimes feel romance can overshadow other aspects of a story so you don't really care what happens. You just asking will they won't they? This was not the case in this story. Incredibly well written!
July 14, 2015
I have not read a book by Nicola Claire yet that I have not loved and this one is no exception. Anna is a strong character that I immediately fell in love with. It took me a bit longer to get behind Andrew. I admit, I wanted to slap him around a little. I have never really been too into historicals but I really got behind this one. I think it was due to the fact that the women weren't swooning all over the place, I really hate that. Anyway, can't wait for book 2.
July 9, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! I tend to find historical fiction to be a bit hit or miss, but I love Ms. Claire and decided to give it a shot. It was certainly a departure from her Sweet Seduction series, but it was a refreshing change of pace.
I loved the mystery as well as the characters. Anna is held back just because she is a woman, and Andrew sees her potential but still is forced to operate within the confines of society.
The end was great, and I can't wait until book 2!
I loved the mystery as well as the characters. Anna is held back just because she is a woman, and Andrew sees her potential but still is forced to operate within the confines of society.
The end was great, and I can't wait until book 2!
April 19, 2016
I don't give up five star reviews lightly. But this book, despite some more than slightly gritty scenes of the serial killer variety, completely deserves it. Well written, well planned and full of characters that are completely fascinating. Not only did I devour the story, wondering about all the unanswered questions presented -- I didn't figure out who the "bad guy" was until it was revealed. Impressively written! Can't wait for the next installment.
January 6, 2018
It took me a VERY LONG TIME to finish this book. Not because of the subject matter, complexity of writing, or other life obligations—I just wasn’t that interested. I wanted to know what happened, even though I’d pretty much figured out who the murderer was by chapter 3. Be forewarned: there is no payoff for the Anna/Andrew relationship at the end. Not sure if I want to continue with the series in order to find out.
May 9, 2016
This was one of those books that I knew I was going to love after the first chapter. Strong female protagonist. Brooding hero. Mystery. History. Perfect! Seriously LOVE Anna, the main character. Not only is she a suffragette, fighting for the right to vote, she aspires to be the Chief Surgeon for the police force in a time when female doctors were rare.
July 17, 2019
This book was okay for me. I hate giving only 3 stars. It was well written, maybe I just don't like gothic romance/mystery. I did like the way the author wrote so I will try another one of her books.
June 27, 2018
SOMETIMES IN HUNTING GUILTY CULPRITS, OUR INSTINCTS CAN BE THROWN WAY OFF COURSE OR NOT!
5 STARS to Nicola Claire for Fearless (Scarlet Suffragette, Book 1): A Victorian Historical Romance Suspense Series which is everything she promises it to be. A new land but well known frightening horrible murders of women, and not only the mystery of who is doing the awful deeds but what is the mystery between our main characters & Suffragette Doctor Anna and Inspector Kelly. A great intriguing murder mystery that will have you guessing the killer but you will be shocked at the twist at the end when the murderer attacks Anna & Mina, near the end wonderfully done! Also opium dens, the addiction of the opium pipe and the selling is gone over briefly as is the Suffragette Movement to try for the Women's vote in and Women's Rights in New Zealand! This is well written, the characters are definitely shown and speak in the Victorian Era Way. It's a must read, I had to finish a chapter then, just one more then I had read all night long and the whole book, and it was worth every satisfying nod at the end. Oh yeah, a lot of the men acted just like the pompous plumbed up nimwhit horses' arses who thought science, being a Doctor, and indeed Voting were just beyond the fragile brain of a Woman. Good Show that, Nicola, it helped add spirit to the storyline.
WARNING: 17& Up SEXUAL CONTENT: Kissing, Light Petting, Extreme Violence to Women's Bodies & Mutilations
5 STARS to Nicola Claire for Fearless (Scarlet Suffragette, Book 1): A Victorian Historical Romance Suspense Series which is everything she promises it to be. A new land but well known frightening horrible murders of women, and not only the mystery of who is doing the awful deeds but what is the mystery between our main characters & Suffragette Doctor Anna and Inspector Kelly. A great intriguing murder mystery that will have you guessing the killer but you will be shocked at the twist at the end when the murderer attacks Anna & Mina, near the end wonderfully done! Also opium dens, the addiction of the opium pipe and the selling is gone over briefly as is the Suffragette Movement to try for the Women's vote in and Women's Rights in New Zealand! This is well written, the characters are definitely shown and speak in the Victorian Era Way. It's a must read, I had to finish a chapter then, just one more then I had read all night long and the whole book, and it was worth every satisfying nod at the end. Oh yeah, a lot of the men acted just like the pompous plumbed up nimwhit horses' arses who thought science, being a Doctor, and indeed Voting were just beyond the fragile brain of a Woman. Good Show that, Nicola, it helped add spirit to the storyline.
WARNING: 17& Up SEXUAL CONTENT: Kissing, Light Petting, Extreme Violence to Women's Bodies & Mutilations
February 5, 2019
Dark times
Thoroughly engaging gothic mystery, mostly very well written (however with one or two editing issues that left me utterly disgruntled and cost this book half a star) and two protagonists who are well defined mixtures of dark and light. The mystery is cleverly constructed and executed, and the conclusion a complete surprise. The setting of Auckland New Zealand hooked me, being a fellow Antipodean, and the grisly details of the murders are not for the faint hearted. A nod to modern forensic analysis was well considered and welcome. Totally enjoyed this mystery, and I've already bought the two sequels, which is most unlike me! My major whinge was that the author tends to overuse favourite words which sadly lessens their impact (eg a quick Google turned up 30 alternatives to the word 'disgruntled'. Silly fact: did you know the opposite of disgruntled is gruntled? What a shame no-one uses it anymore, it's a wonderful word!). Don't be put off by this however, it's a great mystery and well worth your time.
Thoroughly engaging gothic mystery, mostly very well written (however with one or two editing issues that left me utterly disgruntled and cost this book half a star) and two protagonists who are well defined mixtures of dark and light. The mystery is cleverly constructed and executed, and the conclusion a complete surprise. The setting of Auckland New Zealand hooked me, being a fellow Antipodean, and the grisly details of the murders are not for the faint hearted. A nod to modern forensic analysis was well considered and welcome. Totally enjoyed this mystery, and I've already bought the two sequels, which is most unlike me! My major whinge was that the author tends to overuse favourite words which sadly lessens their impact (eg a quick Google turned up 30 alternatives to the word 'disgruntled'. Silly fact: did you know the opposite of disgruntled is gruntled? What a shame no-one uses it anymore, it's a wonderful word!). Don't be put off by this however, it's a great mystery and well worth your time.
November 20, 2017
I loved Anna as a character—I loved Andrew as well. Secondary characters were developed to different extents. I really enjoyed how smart Anna was, and what a good team she and Andrew made. The mystery was a good one—I thought I knew who it was but it seemed too obvious, and then I started wondering about many of the characters in the last quarter of the book. I really enjoyed it quite a lot. I just have to comment on one of the two star reviews without giving anything away, hopefully. Love is a very unpredictable thing. It happens sometimes in places you don’t expect it too, regardless of anything else. It’s messy, and in that sense, sort of parallels the murders. That sounds weird, but life is weird, and messy, and doesn’t always go the way you want it to. It just happens. Anna is an awesome heroine, and I look forward to reading more about her. Highly recommend.
July 10, 2017
I probably wouldn't have finished this book because it needs considerable proofreading, but the story was SO engaging I was able to look past bothersome sentences. I'm not sure Mina's character is entirely believable; it seems Claire needed her to serve a different purpose halfway through. But I have to give Claire credit: I totally fell for the red herring.
Overall, I found this story delightfully frustrating and can't wait to read the sequel. I hope Nicola Claire can find an editor that matches her style so that her storytelling doesn't get bogged down by strange sentence structure and typos.
Overall, I found this story delightfully frustrating and can't wait to read the sequel. I hope Nicola Claire can find an editor that matches her style so that her storytelling doesn't get bogged down by strange sentence structure and typos.
November 4, 2017
Good historical mystery.
I enjoy well studied historical fiction. Even though this one moved into a more recent time frame than I usually read, it caught my attention when it played with another idea for Jack the Ripper, brought in a strong minded, well educated woman trying to prove her place in a male dominated career, and the issues and tensions this would naturally bring with it.
I did have to adjust frequently to the different narrators, but I liked the perspectives it brought with it.
I most likely will continue on with the series, as my interest is piqued to the upcoming future of the characters.
I enjoy well studied historical fiction. Even though this one moved into a more recent time frame than I usually read, it caught my attention when it played with another idea for Jack the Ripper, brought in a strong minded, well educated woman trying to prove her place in a male dominated career, and the issues and tensions this would naturally bring with it.
I did have to adjust frequently to the different narrators, but I liked the perspectives it brought with it.
I most likely will continue on with the series, as my interest is piqued to the upcoming future of the characters.
December 30, 2017
I haven't read too many historical romances, but this was one of those books that I knew I was going to love after the first chapter. It had a strong female protagonist in Anna Cassidy, who's not your typical woman of the 1890's. She's a surgeon trained by her father in Auckland, NZ in a time when a female doctor was a rarity. Anyway, I loved Anna and Andrew. Anna is not only a Suffragette, fighting for the right to vote, she aspires to be the Chief Surgeon for the police force in a time when female doctors were a rarity. Fearless... History. Mystery. Perfect!
I certainly recommend this who done it!
Jack Murphy
I certainly recommend this who done it!
Jack Murphy
November 4, 2016
In 1891 and death comes to the streets of Auckland. Can Inspector Andrew Kelly and Anna Cassidy (trained but not qualified as a doctor by her father, the former Chief Surgeon for the Auckland Police Force) determine who the murderer is before he strikes again.
The tale is told from the view point of Cassidy and Kelly, the romance is between these two but thankfully the book was more of a mystery.
Really enjoyed this book and the characters so I am hoping there will be another, and another in this series.
The tale is told from the view point of Cassidy and Kelly, the romance is between these two but thankfully the book was more of a mystery.
Really enjoyed this book and the characters so I am hoping there will be another, and another in this series.
November 11, 2017
*4.5 stars. I truly enjoyed this. The story is dark and gritty, and I felt my heart wrenching for the characters. My only complaint is that while I do love a good twist in conclusion of a mystery, I did find myself regrettably disappointed in discovering the culprit. I found it to be so out of the blue; I still can’t buy it.
But I loved how well written the story was, although it seemed the style was less impressive in its language as the tale progressed.
I look forward to giving the next in the series a read, for sure.
But I loved how well written the story was, although it seemed the style was less impressive in its language as the tale progressed.
I look forward to giving the next in the series a read, for sure.
June 26, 2018
Fearless (Scarlet Suffragette, Book 1) A Victorian Historical Romantic Suspense seies
The story of Kelly and Ann. Ann is a suffragette and a ME, she was from by her father. Kelly is a detective in NZ and is I've with Ann.
Ann is hep Kelly on a case where suffragettes are being kill and fight with the head of the police who do not want Ann help with the case because she is a woman. Can Ann and Kelly solve the case or with the establishment of the time stop them? Great story.
The story of Kelly and Ann. Ann is a suffragette and a ME, she was from by her father. Kelly is a detective in NZ and is I've with Ann.
Ann is hep Kelly on a case where suffragettes are being kill and fight with the head of the police who do not want Ann help with the case because she is a woman. Can Ann and Kelly solve the case or with the establishment of the time stop them? Great story.
December 6, 2018
A strong female role. A Lady Doctor that the time of Jack the Ripper people were unready to accept in Aukland NZ. She was trained by her father who work as a coroner for the police department but women were not accepted. She loves a Police detective but he has secrets that keep them apart. Not a fairy tale romance but well written. There is a series of books with this heroine and I may have to give the second a try as she prepares to make the Doctor title official by returning to England and actually having the title MD.
April 22, 2019
A thrilling historic murder mystery! Anna was trained in forensic pathology by her late father and fought for women’s suffrage and acceptance as a doctor in Victorian Aukland. Inspector Andrew Kelly is trying to solve Ripper-style murders of suffragettes and reluctantly accepts Anna’s medical insights into the murders even while being adamantly protective of her. The ending is surprising and the romance is barely there but I enjoyed the book and would like to read more in the series to see if this couple has a chance at a future. Another great Nicola Claire romance!
February 16, 2020
I found this book very intriguing.
This is not the typical historical romance that one would find, and it is a book that makes you want to keep reading (the rest of the series which I intend to do). I am not a great fan of book trilogies, but Book 1 has me hooked.
The heroine is firm in her beliefs (while at the same time you just want to pull your hair out). And the hero, all he wants to do is keep her safe, especially due to the fact that she goes running headfirst into danger.
I found this an interesting read, and when I get the chance will grab Book 2 (and Book 3) to see how the story ends.
This is not the typical historical romance that one would find, and it is a book that makes you want to keep reading (the rest of the series which I intend to do). I am not a great fan of book trilogies, but Book 1 has me hooked.
The heroine is firm in her beliefs (while at the same time you just want to pull your hair out). And the hero, all he wants to do is keep her safe, especially due to the fact that she goes running headfirst into danger.
I found this an interesting read, and when I get the chance will grab Book 2 (and Book 3) to see how the story ends.
July 11, 2018
Don't care for suffragette books as a rule.
I was glad to see that this novel didn't make me suffer through a bunch of angry male hating obsessed women. With that said...
It was a good story. A bit on the overly dramatic, angst driven, end of the world communication that seemed to fill these pages. Like a high school romance; "Does he like me, or not? How can I tell? Why won't he tell me?"
To give it credit, I wanted to keep reading and will read the next book in the series.
I was glad to see that this novel didn't make me suffer through a bunch of angry male hating obsessed women. With that said...
It was a good story. A bit on the overly dramatic, angst driven, end of the world communication that seemed to fill these pages. Like a high school romance; "Does he like me, or not? How can I tell? Why won't he tell me?"
To give it credit, I wanted to keep reading and will read the next book in the series.
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