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Scarlet Suffragette #2
Breathless
Nicola Claire's captivating new Gothic romance series continues with a dark and sinister London City at the end of the nineteenth century - brightened by a fearless and talented heroine and a loyal and secretive police inspector...
Determined doctor? Interfering busybody? Fearless fighter?
The London of Anna Cassidy’s memories is not the London she faces today. Having proved her worth as a physician, Dr Cassidy finds herself pitted against the stolid attitude of a male-dominated society.
But it's not only society she has to contend with.
A criminal mastermind has set themselves up in London, England; chosen the dirty streets of Whitechapel and Lambeth as their stage. Competing against a devious and cunning opponent sets Anna and her closest friends off on a dire adventure, which could culminate in a loss so great Anna may never recover again.
Steadfast police inspector? Loyal guardian? Caring lover?
Anna, however, is not alone. Or, at least, she won’t be once Inspector Kelly finds her. Facing the ghosts of his past, Andrew Kelly rushes to face Anna’s enemies and protect the woman he loves.
But Anna is not unable to defend herself.
Proving she needs him is a task Inspector Kelly would gladly undertake. But the city of Andrew's birth is more in the grip of evil machinations than it has ever been, bringing to mind memories of a dark London, ripped to within an inch of its life by a devil known to most simply as Jack.
Andrew knows otherwise. For his secrets are unravelling and within their shadowed corners lies a murderer, a poisoner, and a villain so deceitful that nothing is what it appears to be.
A gritty, twisted, and authentic Victorian romantic suspense, sure to rip you apart... just like old Jack.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2017
63 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
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 - 25 of 25 reviews
scarlet-suffragette-series
March 12, 2017Well, this is exciting! Breathless is almost here. I haven't got an exact release date for you, as yet. But it is expected to be sometime in April 2017. So close!
And in the meantime, there's a description. And it might just leave you...Breathless!
♥︎ Nicola
And in the meantime, there's a description. And it might just leave you...Breathless!
♥︎ Nicola
April 23, 2017
A fantastic follow up to book 1! I read FEARLESS last year and have been eagerly awaiting the next installment. It was everything I was hoping for and more!
Andrew describes Anna as fierce and fiery, and that description couldn't be more accurate. She knows what she is capable of and doesn't let societal expectations hold her back from what she wants. She stands up for what is right and does not back down for anyone. She also has a profound impact on Andrew. Andrew is such a complex character and I just can't get enough of him. He has had a tortured past and will do whatever it takes to prevent his past from hurting Anna. He loves her for who she is even if he doesn't feel worthy of her. When he does let his control slip and gets close to her, the sparks fly!
This story is very character driven due to the complex and intriguing characters, but it is certainly not lacking in plot. The mystery is gripping and engaging, and I just love seeing how everything is connected. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and the romance was heartwarming.
Now I need to TRY and wait patiently for book 3!! I am so excited to see what happens!
*I received an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Andrew describes Anna as fierce and fiery, and that description couldn't be more accurate. She knows what she is capable of and doesn't let societal expectations hold her back from what she wants. She stands up for what is right and does not back down for anyone. She also has a profound impact on Andrew. Andrew is such a complex character and I just can't get enough of him. He has had a tortured past and will do whatever it takes to prevent his past from hurting Anna. He loves her for who she is even if he doesn't feel worthy of her. When he does let his control slip and gets close to her, the sparks fly!
This story is very character driven due to the complex and intriguing characters, but it is certainly not lacking in plot. The mystery is gripping and engaging, and I just love seeing how everything is connected. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and the romance was heartwarming.
Now I need to TRY and wait patiently for book 3!! I am so excited to see what happens!
*I received an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2017
I really enjoyed Breathless and it is a great addition to the Suffragette series. Anna is a strong, independant woman, she is confident in her abilities and who she is, and is not going to let society hold her back. However there are things in Anna's life that are not going quite as planned. Firstly, her cousin Mina is missing and she is worried about her. Secondly, she is in love with Andrew Kelly, a man she cannot have.
The characters in Breathless are beautifully complex and I loved delving deeper and deeper into their complexities as the book went on. Andrew has a tortured past and the choices he has to make to protect Anna are impossible, it just shows how much he loves her. Anna is fierce and loyal and her and Andrew are a perfectly matched. The chemistry between the two is off the charts and I love the romance between the them. There is also the mystery and intrigue aspect of Breathless, and Nicola Clare manages to pack in plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. This was a real page turner for me, with interesting characters, a great plot, romance and mystery - it has everything I was looking for! I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of Breathless in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in Breathless are beautifully complex and I loved delving deeper and deeper into their complexities as the book went on. Andrew has a tortured past and the choices he has to make to protect Anna are impossible, it just shows how much he loves her. Anna is fierce and loyal and her and Andrew are a perfectly matched. The chemistry between the two is off the charts and I love the romance between the them. There is also the mystery and intrigue aspect of Breathless, and Nicola Clare manages to pack in plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. This was a real page turner for me, with interesting characters, a great plot, romance and mystery - it has everything I was looking for! I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of Breathless in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2018
Breathless (Scarlet Suffragette, Book 2): A Victorian Historical Romantic
The continuous story of Andrew Kelly and Ann. Ann is in London and she has got her medical degree. On graduate day her cousin Wilhelmina hose missing.
Kelly is in London on the trail of a murderer, he come across Ann at a police station in Whitechapel. With his help can Ann find Wilhelmina?
Kelly's wife is going after him and Ann. She has try to kill him before, will she be able to it this time and take Ann and Wilhelmina with him? GreAt story and love grow noe.
The continuous story of Andrew Kelly and Ann. Ann is in London and she has got her medical degree. On graduate day her cousin Wilhelmina hose missing.
Kelly is in London on the trail of a murderer, he come across Ann at a police station in Whitechapel. With his help can Ann find Wilhelmina?
Kelly's wife is going after him and Ann. She has try to kill him before, will she be able to it this time and take Ann and Wilhelmina with him? GreAt story and love grow noe.
November 4, 2018
Book two in the Scarlet Suffragette series, Breathless did indeed steal my breath at times. The strong-willed Dr. Anna Cassidy is back, and her handsome Inspector Kelly has come along for the ride.
Summary:
It seems Anna Cassidy has been reaching for, but not quite grasping her dreams for a lifetime. Taking her place as the surgeon she knows she is and should be, being with the man she loves. It’s all been woefully just out of reach. But finally, after enduring multiple losses and escaping death once, she feels the first gossamer wings of success as she accepts her medical degree. Now she is a doctor by name and not just by trade. The only blight on this joyous occasion is the mysterious disappearance of her cousin, Miss Wilhelmina Cassidy. There is more than one reason to be worried as Mina has a fragile disposition, but more so that Anna seems to have attracted a secret admirer. An admirer with a sinister air. Mina is Anna’s responsibility, so she sets off to find her. Unfortunately, Mina’s last known whereabouts are less than desirable. Heading to 19th century Whitechapel, Anna is willingly putting herself in danger. Luckily, Inspector Andrew Kelly and Sergeant Blackmore have just arrived in England chasing Andrew’s past. Meeting up by chance, Anna, Andrew, and Blackie embark on an urgent search. Can Anna’s search and Inspector Kelly’s mission be connected?
*************************
I adored Anna in this book. I loved her in book one, too, but she was even more passionate and fiery in this book. I was excited to see her receive her degree. She again, displayed that fearless attitude and her perseverance to see women succeed in a male-dominated world. She is a strong, independent woman, who doesn’t want or need to rely on a man. I was disappointed, though, that we didn’t see much of Anna’s medical expertise in this book. Her intelligence shined throughout, as she gave example after example of just how much knowledge she could hold, but I’ve come to enjoy reading how she examines a body or gathers forensic evidence. Inspector Kelly gives me mixed feelings. I like him. He’s loyal, dedicated, and honest. I want to love him, but he frustrates me greatly. Despite seeing his care for Anna and just how good he is at his job, I was disappointed in him after learning one of his secrets in book one. I wanted him to redeem my faith in his love for Anna and make everything right. There were moments that were so close, and a decision he made that I wholeheartedly backed him on, but obstacles kept getting in the way. From the start, he had more secrets, and he willingly tried to keep them from Anna. Experience with the way of secrets between this couple has taught me that Anna is willful and determined. She will proceed whether she has all the information or not. I felt Andrew put her in more danger by keeping his knowledge close to his chest, and essentially it was for nothing. This book also brought into question Andrew’s moral integrity in regards to Anna and Eliza May. It’s an impossible decision, but, in my opinion, he was showing more loyalty to the person who didn’t deserve it while offering Anna less than she deserved. He couldn’t divorce the woman, but he could cheat on her? It didn’t make sense or make me happy. I like and want Anna and Andrew together. They have an underlying chemistry that’s hard to ignore. There were even a few steamy scenes to get your blood pumping. Overall, it was a great addition to the series. The characters were complex; each with their own difficulties and pasts. The plot kept me glued to the pages. There was suspense and murder along with the mystery of Wilhemina’s location. The twists and turns kept you guessing about the villain. Nicola’s use of description always has the unique ability to carry me away to the setting she wishes. This series gives me a little of everything I could want to read. Romance, suspense, and history. It’s entertaining and thought provoking, and I’m very much looking forward to Anna and Andrew’s conclusion. ♡
Reread: 10/10/2018
Summary:
It seems Anna Cassidy has been reaching for, but not quite grasping her dreams for a lifetime. Taking her place as the surgeon she knows she is and should be, being with the man she loves. It’s all been woefully just out of reach. But finally, after enduring multiple losses and escaping death once, she feels the first gossamer wings of success as she accepts her medical degree. Now she is a doctor by name and not just by trade. The only blight on this joyous occasion is the mysterious disappearance of her cousin, Miss Wilhelmina Cassidy. There is more than one reason to be worried as Mina has a fragile disposition, but more so that Anna seems to have attracted a secret admirer. An admirer with a sinister air. Mina is Anna’s responsibility, so she sets off to find her. Unfortunately, Mina’s last known whereabouts are less than desirable. Heading to 19th century Whitechapel, Anna is willingly putting herself in danger. Luckily, Inspector Andrew Kelly and Sergeant Blackmore have just arrived in England chasing Andrew’s past. Meeting up by chance, Anna, Andrew, and Blackie embark on an urgent search. Can Anna’s search and Inspector Kelly’s mission be connected?
*************************
I adored Anna in this book. I loved her in book one, too, but she was even more passionate and fiery in this book. I was excited to see her receive her degree. She again, displayed that fearless attitude and her perseverance to see women succeed in a male-dominated world. She is a strong, independent woman, who doesn’t want or need to rely on a man. I was disappointed, though, that we didn’t see much of Anna’s medical expertise in this book. Her intelligence shined throughout, as she gave example after example of just how much knowledge she could hold, but I’ve come to enjoy reading how she examines a body or gathers forensic evidence. Inspector Kelly gives me mixed feelings. I like him. He’s loyal, dedicated, and honest. I want to love him, but he frustrates me greatly. Despite seeing his care for Anna and just how good he is at his job, I was disappointed in him after learning one of his secrets in book one. I wanted him to redeem my faith in his love for Anna and make everything right. There were moments that were so close, and a decision he made that I wholeheartedly backed him on, but obstacles kept getting in the way. From the start, he had more secrets, and he willingly tried to keep them from Anna. Experience with the way of secrets between this couple has taught me that Anna is willful and determined. She will proceed whether she has all the information or not. I felt Andrew put her in more danger by keeping his knowledge close to his chest, and essentially it was for nothing. This book also brought into question Andrew’s moral integrity in regards to Anna and Eliza May. It’s an impossible decision, but, in my opinion, he was showing more loyalty to the person who didn’t deserve it while offering Anna less than she deserved. He couldn’t divorce the woman, but he could cheat on her? It didn’t make sense or make me happy. I like and want Anna and Andrew together. They have an underlying chemistry that’s hard to ignore. There were even a few steamy scenes to get your blood pumping. Overall, it was a great addition to the series. The characters were complex; each with their own difficulties and pasts. The plot kept me glued to the pages. There was suspense and murder along with the mystery of Wilhemina’s location. The twists and turns kept you guessing about the villain. Nicola’s use of description always has the unique ability to carry me away to the setting she wishes. This series gives me a little of everything I could want to read. Romance, suspense, and history. It’s entertaining and thought provoking, and I’m very much looking forward to Anna and Andrew’s conclusion. ♡
Reread: 10/10/2018
April 15, 2023
This was an interesting one. Even though I liked book number one more than I did this one, this was a pretty solid read with so many twists and turns and things that were mine blowing. That ending was quite the doozy of an egg and one I did not see it coming. I was not expecting the connection between Andrews wife and the mystery element. However, because the wife was involved, brought Anna and Andrew back together again. Then together they were to unravel the mystery that was torturing London of these murderers of prostitutes, as well as her missing cousin. I did not expect that Andrew and Anna would get so passionate and how amorous they would get with each other. I thought it would be a little bit more in denial and teasing back and forth throughout the story, but they were pretty upfront about it even though there was some denial aspect, it wasn’t with the true heart. I kind of wanted it to be a little bit more subtle, to be honest with you, and just up the angst and longing between them. The conclusion to this particular story kind of left off on an open ended type of thing as Anna and Andrew continue with them going back to New Zealand to fraught the wife. Overall, I did enjoy it and I am interested to continue to the last book in the series but I’m not jumping to. I just think I like the first book better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2017
This is a good follow-up to Fearless. I think Anna was a little too hard on herself, though, regarding the situation with Mina. Andrew is still a good solid character, but I did want to bop him on the head for remaining faithful to a wife who is a murderess. The thought of a divorce really hadn’t occurred to him before Anna mentioned it? Eliza May tried to kill him—those are pretty good grounds for divorce to me, even in 1897. I think the mystery got a little convoluted in this one. It’s possible one woman could control that much of London, but it doesn’t seem believable. I do buy the theory that women could have more control of things, at the time, behind the scene, but I find it so hard to believe that Anna, as brilliant as she is, wouldn’t have noticed _something_ off about Emily Tempest. The plot just seemed a little stretched, and I wish Andrew would get his act together or Anna would find someone who really did deserve her, because Andrew is starting to fall a little short.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2019
Take a deep breath
Because you'll be holding it for most of this book. Exciting and worthy sequel to Fearless, following the two protagonists to foggy old London Town, where secrets and sinners comfortably coexist. Once again very well written and no substantial complaints about editing (a handful of typos that, whilst annoying, don't really detract from the action). The characters are thrust into the seedy underbelly of this ancient city and manage to continue to get out of close shaves and scary scrapes, all beautifully painted in Gothic colours. Interesting relationship developments do not detract from their nicely drawn period personalities. Once again, great era appropriate references to forensics, and detailed descriptions that are not for the faint hearted. Another surprise ending - kudos! Well done, thoroughly recommended gothic mystery.
Because you'll be holding it for most of this book. Exciting and worthy sequel to Fearless, following the two protagonists to foggy old London Town, where secrets and sinners comfortably coexist. Once again very well written and no substantial complaints about editing (a handful of typos that, whilst annoying, don't really detract from the action). The characters are thrust into the seedy underbelly of this ancient city and manage to continue to get out of close shaves and scary scrapes, all beautifully painted in Gothic colours. Interesting relationship developments do not detract from their nicely drawn period personalities. Once again, great era appropriate references to forensics, and detailed descriptions that are not for the faint hearted. Another surprise ending - kudos! Well done, thoroughly recommended gothic mystery.
February 16, 2020
While an enjoyable read, I found the first book more interesting.
I found this story moving a lot quicker (hence also why a very quick read).
Like in the previous book, the heroine throws herself into danger, but also still very strong in her beliefs. And also like before the hero just wants her to be safe.
This story continued had me guessing who the villain was, and had me completely taken by surprise at the very end.
Look forward to what book 3 will show and how the story will end.
I found this story moving a lot quicker (hence also why a very quick read).
Like in the previous book, the heroine throws herself into danger, but also still very strong in her beliefs. And also like before the hero just wants her to be safe.
This story continued had me guessing who the villain was, and had me completely taken by surprise at the very end.
Look forward to what book 3 will show and how the story will end.
May 8, 2017
Slow at times
Eventually this novel gets going with a bit of action but there are too many early chapters droning on about love, particularly from the inspector. However, I did enjoy these characters last time and it was nice to see them again. Enough that I will give the 3rd novel a try. 3 stars or 3.5 romance stars
Eventually this novel gets going with a bit of action but there are too many early chapters droning on about love, particularly from the inspector. However, I did enjoy these characters last time and it was nice to see them again. Enough that I will give the 3rd novel a try. 3 stars or 3.5 romance stars
May 16, 2017
Breathless
This book is fabulous! I love a good mystery. This was great, I totally did not seeing this villain coming. Great characters, good dialogue and a good story. I can not wait for the next book. There has to be another. I like Nicole's style of writing and plan on trying some of her other books.I recommend this book.
This book is fabulous! I love a good mystery. This was great, I totally did not seeing this villain coming. Great characters, good dialogue and a good story. I can not wait for the next book. There has to be another. I like Nicole's style of writing and plan on trying some of her other books.I recommend this book.
March 29, 2022
This was so good I love the era and the references to Jack the Ripper and Sherlock Holmes. It has fabulous characters both good and bad. The story kept you wanting to read more. I’m not one for huge relationship storylines but this I loved. Highly recommended if you like murder mystery set in a gothic Victorian era.
June 7, 2017
Love this series
Love every thing about it.. Would be very disappointed if Book 3 is not made.. I am invested in Inspector Kelly and Dr. Cassidy love story. Need to know how it ends.
Love every thing about it.. Would be very disappointed if Book 3 is not made.. I am invested in Inspector Kelly and Dr. Cassidy love story. Need to know how it ends.
October 27, 2023
1892. Dr Anna Cassidy searches London for her missing cousin Mina Cassidy. But who is behind the death of prostitutes by poisoning in Lambeth, and the missing orphans. As Inspector Kelly searches for his wife.
An entertaining historical mystery and romance
An entertaining historical mystery and romance
August 31, 2017
Very intriguing
Was not how I expected it to end but good none the less a master mind female manipulating men as she saw fit
Was not how I expected it to end but good none the less a master mind female manipulating men as she saw fit
September 25, 2017
Good read.
I would recommend this for a beach reading or an escape from reality for a bit. Easy light reading. Have fun.
I would recommend this for a beach reading or an escape from reality for a bit. Easy light reading. Have fun.
October 12, 2017
Loved
Such a story,what love and hate.Power money ,mental illness!
But they solved it pain is there,love is too! They will keep going!
Such a story,what love and hate.Power money ,mental illness!
But they solved it pain is there,love is too! They will keep going!
June 27, 2018
Breathless
So much pain, so much deceit. The life lead in Victorian England was black and white. It was a world of haves and have nots.
So much pain, so much deceit. The life lead in Victorian England was black and white. It was a world of haves and have nots.
May 20, 2019
Love
I love this series its amazing and exilirating,definitely left me breathless that's for sure and and I can't wait to read the next one
I love this series its amazing and exilirating,definitely left me breathless that's for sure and and I can't wait to read the next one
Want to read
December 26, 2021🎁The complete series is FREE on Amazon today (12/26/2021)! 🎁
August 14, 2023
3 stars. I hate to say it but the romance almost overshadowed the plot. Hey, don’t get me wrong, I love a good heated, steamy romance but it left the mystery part of the story a bit light.
November 18, 2018
Breathless begins with Anna graduating in London and becoming a doctor. But her cousin Mina is missing, and she's worried it has something to do with Inspector Kelly. While trying to find her cousin, she runs into Andrew Kelly again. The man she loves, but can't have. These two work together again to figure out what has happened to Mina, and what Andrew's wife is doing.
I liked Anna a whole lot. I adored her will to make something of her self, and to be very strong and independent. I don't however, like Andrew. I hate how he won't "divorce" his wife, but then considers "cheating" on her, but his honor won't allow him to try to divorce a monster. To me, he's saying he must have feelings for his wife if he's going to stay by her, yet he won't do everything in his power to get rid of her to be with Anna. Because even if they catch her and she goes to "jail" they will still have the same issue.
This really annoys me, and makes me dislike the story somewhat. Other than that I thought the book was interesting, and I look forward to more. I just hope it changes somehow.
I liked Anna a whole lot. I adored her will to make something of her self, and to be very strong and independent. I don't however, like Andrew. I hate how he won't "divorce" his wife, but then considers "cheating" on her, but his honor won't allow him to try to divorce a monster. To me, he's saying he must have feelings for his wife if he's going to stay by her, yet he won't do everything in his power to get rid of her to be with Anna. Because even if they catch her and she goes to "jail" they will still have the same issue.
This really annoys me, and makes me dislike the story somewhat. Other than that I thought the book was interesting, and I look forward to more. I just hope it changes somehow.
April 30, 2017
WOW…Breathless…Nicola Claire has created another beautifully complex tale. The concept of this series had me wondering if I would enjoy them. Yes, I do. Fearless, Bk 1, was read in less than a day. I just had to find out where the story would go. I enjoy books with witty interactions between characters and mysteries that keep me guessing. Breathless, Bk 2, did not disappoint either. It continued with those twists and turns, pulling me fully into the story. Now I can hardly wait for Bk 3, and find out how Anna and Andrew will continue on their journey.
July 19, 2017
3.5
I love this heroine. And, I love the time period/framework this series is set in with the suffragette movement. Well-paced excellent sequel to the first book.
I love this heroine. And, I love the time period/framework this series is set in with the suffragette movement. Well-paced excellent sequel to the first book.
May 2, 2017
It certain May left me Breathless
A real page turner. Anna and Andrew independently return to London. And evil is afoot. There are wheels within wheels spinning crime and murder. Well written, fleshed out characters, and red herrings aplenty make this a terrific read.
A real page turner. Anna and Andrew independently return to London. And evil is afoot. There are wheels within wheels spinning crime and murder. Well written, fleshed out characters, and red herrings aplenty make this a terrific read.
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