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Sinful Suitors #5
The Secret of Flirting
The moment spymaster Baron Fulkham meets the stunning Princess Anne of Chanay, he's positive her royal persona is a ruse and that she's actually Monique Servais, the mysterious actress he met three years before in Dieppe. But as he pursues his suspicions, he uncovers a plot of attempted assassination and betrayal that could very well destroy his career, expose his own secrets...and ruin the woman he's rapidly coming to love.
The Secret of Flirting is a sizzling historical romance filled with fast-paced storytelling, an enchanting heroine, and a sexy hero, perfect for fans of Regency romance.
The Secret of Flirting is a sizzling historical romance filled with fast-paced storytelling, an enchanting heroine, and a sexy hero, perfect for fans of Regency romance.
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 27, 2018
276 people are currently reading
1584 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Jeffries
86 books4,796 followersSabrina Jeffries is the NYT bestselling author of over 50 novels and works of short fiction (some written under the pseudonyms Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas). Whatever time not spent writing in a coffee-fueled haze of dreams and madness is spent traveling with her husband and adult autistic son or indulging in one of her passions—jigsaw puzzles, chocolate, and music. With over 11 million books published in print and electronically in 25 different languages, the North Carolina author never regrets tossing aside a budding career in academics for the sheer joy of writing fun fiction, and hopes that one day a book of hers will end up saving the world.
She always dreams big.
She always dreams big.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 270 reviews
March 18, 2018
In preparation of this ARC, I read/listened to the preceding novels in the series since I could get them through my library and to make sure I didn’t miss background information that may be relevant here. Having done that, I don’t believe it is necessary. Lord Fulkham, the hero, is a present but aloof character throughout the series, and Monique, the heroine, was new to the series. Having found my opinion of the books nearly steadily decreasing with each book, I was concerned that my opinion of this one would be adversely affected as a result of having read the preceding ones too soon before this one. The thing that becomes more noticeable with each read is the formula to the romance. I am not saying they are carbon copies of the next, but they do become predictable. However, when the subplot is intriguing, they can be good fun. This was thankfully one of those.
This one centered around choosing the leader of Belgium in 1830. At the end of the book, Jeffries wrote a note on where and how she took literary license. I appreciated that. It was an interesting setting and one that I know little about. Monique is an actress, the granddaughter of a Royal princess of Chanay, who had run away with an actor and had been cast out of the family. Monique is caring for her grandmother, who has dementia. While a talented actress, she does not have time for socializing and is annoyed when an English lord requests an audience with her after one of her shows. Her and Lord Fulkhum verbally spar but do not see each other again for 3 years. Monique had been brought back into the folds of the royal family with a promise to care for her grandmother if she will impersonate her cousin, who is the front runner to be the Belgium ruler and has suddenly fallen ill right before they travel to the conferences to choose the ruler in London. Everything is going well until she meets Fulkhum again and he recognizes her immediately.
I will admit that the plot felt quite convoluted for a bit in the first half, but it worked out to my satisfaction and I found myself enjoying the story. Monique was a likable heroine, and I thought them well matched. In my opinion, this was the strongest novel of the series. It was interesting, well paced and the conflicts resolved nicely. There was also a coherent discussion on consent and consequences of an affair where the two parties are not of equal footing that I thought well done. All in all a good story that I would recommend to someone looking for intrigue to go with their historical romance.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This one centered around choosing the leader of Belgium in 1830. At the end of the book, Jeffries wrote a note on where and how she took literary license. I appreciated that. It was an interesting setting and one that I know little about. Monique is an actress, the granddaughter of a Royal princess of Chanay, who had run away with an actor and had been cast out of the family. Monique is caring for her grandmother, who has dementia. While a talented actress, she does not have time for socializing and is annoyed when an English lord requests an audience with her after one of her shows. Her and Lord Fulkhum verbally spar but do not see each other again for 3 years. Monique had been brought back into the folds of the royal family with a promise to care for her grandmother if she will impersonate her cousin, who is the front runner to be the Belgium ruler and has suddenly fallen ill right before they travel to the conferences to choose the ruler in London. Everything is going well until she meets Fulkhum again and he recognizes her immediately.
I will admit that the plot felt quite convoluted for a bit in the first half, but it worked out to my satisfaction and I found myself enjoying the story. Monique was a likable heroine, and I thought them well matched. In my opinion, this was the strongest novel of the series. It was interesting, well paced and the conflicts resolved nicely. There was also a coherent discussion on consent and consequences of an affair where the two parties are not of equal footing that I thought well done. All in all a good story that I would recommend to someone looking for intrigue to go with their historical romance.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2018
Although The Secret of Flirting is the fifth instalment in Sabrina Jeffries’
Sinful Suitors
series, it can easily be read as a standalone, as none of its storylines is related to the other books. Previous heroes and heroines make appearances within its pages, but they are brief cameos and no prior knowledge of their stories is required in order to make sense of this one. Gregory Vyse, Lord Fulkham, undersecretary of state for war and the colonies – and unofficially one of England’s most successful spymasters – appeared as an important secondary character in the previous book (The Pleasures of Passion), and now takes centre stage in a story of international politics and intrigue.
Gregory is driven, astute and ambitious, and hopes for a prestigious appointment in the new government that will shortly be formed under Lord Grey. He is currently heavily involved in the conference that has been convened in London in order to select a ruler for the new country of Belgium, formed when it was granted independence from the Netherlands. In fact, with the Foreign Secretary indisposed, the organisation of the conference and the endorsement of the chosen candidate falls wholly on Gregory’s shoulders, and he is a man who takes his responsibilities very seriously indeed.
Princess Aurore of Chanay is one of the front runners for the monarchy, but has been suddenly taken ill at Calais and is unable to travel to London – which is potentially disastrous. But all is not lost – in a stroke worthy of Alexandre Dumas or Anthony Hope, the princess’ great uncle, the Count de Beaumonde, comes up with a plan to have Aurore’s second cousin, actress Monique Servais, impersonate the princess in London until she recovers and can resume her royal position and duties.
Monique Servais has trod the boards for some years at theatres in Dieppe, where she lives with her elderly and infirm grandmother Solange, a princess of the house of Chanay who was cut off by her family when she scandalously ran away with an actor. Neither Monique nor her grandmother has had any contact with the family since, and with Solange’s health deteriorating, Monique is her sole support. When Beaumonde appears and proposes that Monique should take the place of the princess for the duration of the London conference, Monique is wary – until he explains that in exchange for her co-operation, she and Solange will be welcomed back to Chanay, the old lady will be taken care of and Monique need never worry about her – or anything else – again. The promise of care for her grandmother is too much of a temptation to resist, so in spite of her misgivings, Monique agrees to the plan.
Over the next few says, she prepares herself to nod and smile and say the right things, act the part of a princess and do her best to show Aurore to be worthy of the crown of Belgium. The masquerade begins well – until she arrives at a banquet in London and comes face to face with the handsome but cynical Lord Fulkham, whom she’d met three years earlier in Dieppe when he’d come to visit her, at the behest of a friend, after a performance. Even though they haven’t seen each other in the intervening years, Monique has never forgotten his snide remarks about comedy and the theatre and she gets angry just remembering how he’d looked down his nose at her. He could expose her and the whole charade if she lets slip even for the merest instant that she is not who she says she is – which means the discovery that he is just as handsome and far more charming than she remembers poses a danger to her. She cannot allow herself to be distracted from her role, no matter how attractive the distraction.
Even though her resemblance to the princess (of whom he has only seen a portrait) is uncanny, Gregory recognises Monique immediately. Suspicion gnaws at him, and he determines to expose her, trying to trip her up whenever they converse – but she’s as good at dissembling as he is and he realises it’s not going to be easy. Also not easy is the strong desire he feels for her, which, for a man who prides himself on his self-control, is inconvenient and unwelcome. But he has never forgotten Monique, the way her beauty and intelligence had caught him by surprise or the way she had managed to ruffle his normally un-rufflable emotions and respond so archly to his unflattering remarks.
The attraction between Gregory and Monique intensifies over the next few days as they carefully circle each other, sizing up and second-guessing one another all the time. But the stakes are raised when, on a drive through Hyde Park, shots are fired at Monique, bringing home to Gregory that it doesn’t matter if she is an actress or a princess – whoever she is, the thought of her being hurt is unbearable and he is determined to protect her at all costs.
Sabrina Jeffries often includes a mystery as a secondary plotline in her historical romances, and I confess that not all of the ones I’ve read have worked for me, but this one did. The political backdrop is interesting (the author’s note at the end is worth reading) and Gregory and Monique are a well-matched couple. The chemistry between them sizzles right from the start, their verbal sparring is witty and spry and I was pleased with the way the author addressed the issue of consent and the power imbalance between them. Both are well-drawn and likeable, and although Gregory comes from the my-father-was-a-total-git-and-my-parents-were-miserable-so-I-am-emotionally-stunted school of romance heroes, the author puts a slightly different spin on his background which turns out to have an important part to play in the story, and I was glad to see that he was prepared to go all out for what he wanted (once he’d admitted to himself what that was!). The romantic conflict is born largely of the difference in station between Monique and Gregory – a man of his political ambitions cannot possibly expect to advance in his career if he marries a woman deemed ‘unsuitable’ – and is not overplayed; both parties accept it as the way things have to be, until Gregory swings into politician/spymaster mode and solves his Monique-shaped problems at a single stroke.
My main criticisms of the book are twofold; the pacing starts to flag a little early in the second half of the novel and the first sex scene feels oddly out of place, almost as though the author thought it was about time to include one rather than because that was where it actually needed to be. And the other is that the climactic scene where all is revealed is rather overblown and whiffs of weeks old camembert.
Those criticisms apart, The Secret of Flirting is an undemanding, quick read featuring two attractive principal characters, a well-drawn secondary cast and an intriguing plot. It’s a solid addition to the Sinful Suitors series and I enjoyed it in spite of my reservations.
Gregory is driven, astute and ambitious, and hopes for a prestigious appointment in the new government that will shortly be formed under Lord Grey. He is currently heavily involved in the conference that has been convened in London in order to select a ruler for the new country of Belgium, formed when it was granted independence from the Netherlands. In fact, with the Foreign Secretary indisposed, the organisation of the conference and the endorsement of the chosen candidate falls wholly on Gregory’s shoulders, and he is a man who takes his responsibilities very seriously indeed.
Princess Aurore of Chanay is one of the front runners for the monarchy, but has been suddenly taken ill at Calais and is unable to travel to London – which is potentially disastrous. But all is not lost – in a stroke worthy of Alexandre Dumas or Anthony Hope, the princess’ great uncle, the Count de Beaumonde, comes up with a plan to have Aurore’s second cousin, actress Monique Servais, impersonate the princess in London until she recovers and can resume her royal position and duties.
Monique Servais has trod the boards for some years at theatres in Dieppe, where she lives with her elderly and infirm grandmother Solange, a princess of the house of Chanay who was cut off by her family when she scandalously ran away with an actor. Neither Monique nor her grandmother has had any contact with the family since, and with Solange’s health deteriorating, Monique is her sole support. When Beaumonde appears and proposes that Monique should take the place of the princess for the duration of the London conference, Monique is wary – until he explains that in exchange for her co-operation, she and Solange will be welcomed back to Chanay, the old lady will be taken care of and Monique need never worry about her – or anything else – again. The promise of care for her grandmother is too much of a temptation to resist, so in spite of her misgivings, Monique agrees to the plan.
Over the next few says, she prepares herself to nod and smile and say the right things, act the part of a princess and do her best to show Aurore to be worthy of the crown of Belgium. The masquerade begins well – until she arrives at a banquet in London and comes face to face with the handsome but cynical Lord Fulkham, whom she’d met three years earlier in Dieppe when he’d come to visit her, at the behest of a friend, after a performance. Even though they haven’t seen each other in the intervening years, Monique has never forgotten his snide remarks about comedy and the theatre and she gets angry just remembering how he’d looked down his nose at her. He could expose her and the whole charade if she lets slip even for the merest instant that she is not who she says she is – which means the discovery that he is just as handsome and far more charming than she remembers poses a danger to her. She cannot allow herself to be distracted from her role, no matter how attractive the distraction.
Even though her resemblance to the princess (of whom he has only seen a portrait) is uncanny, Gregory recognises Monique immediately. Suspicion gnaws at him, and he determines to expose her, trying to trip her up whenever they converse – but she’s as good at dissembling as he is and he realises it’s not going to be easy. Also not easy is the strong desire he feels for her, which, for a man who prides himself on his self-control, is inconvenient and unwelcome. But he has never forgotten Monique, the way her beauty and intelligence had caught him by surprise or the way she had managed to ruffle his normally un-rufflable emotions and respond so archly to his unflattering remarks.
The attraction between Gregory and Monique intensifies over the next few days as they carefully circle each other, sizing up and second-guessing one another all the time. But the stakes are raised when, on a drive through Hyde Park, shots are fired at Monique, bringing home to Gregory that it doesn’t matter if she is an actress or a princess – whoever she is, the thought of her being hurt is unbearable and he is determined to protect her at all costs.
Sabrina Jeffries often includes a mystery as a secondary plotline in her historical romances, and I confess that not all of the ones I’ve read have worked for me, but this one did. The political backdrop is interesting (the author’s note at the end is worth reading) and Gregory and Monique are a well-matched couple. The chemistry between them sizzles right from the start, their verbal sparring is witty and spry and I was pleased with the way the author addressed the issue of consent and the power imbalance between them. Both are well-drawn and likeable, and although Gregory comes from the my-father-was-a-total-git-and-my-parents-were-miserable-so-I-am-emotionally-stunted school of romance heroes, the author puts a slightly different spin on his background which turns out to have an important part to play in the story, and I was glad to see that he was prepared to go all out for what he wanted (once he’d admitted to himself what that was!). The romantic conflict is born largely of the difference in station between Monique and Gregory – a man of his political ambitions cannot possibly expect to advance in his career if he marries a woman deemed ‘unsuitable’ – and is not overplayed; both parties accept it as the way things have to be, until Gregory swings into politician/spymaster mode and solves his Monique-shaped problems at a single stroke.
My main criticisms of the book are twofold; the pacing starts to flag a little early in the second half of the novel and the first sex scene feels oddly out of place, almost as though the author thought it was about time to include one rather than because that was where it actually needed to be. And the other is that the climactic scene where all is revealed is rather overblown and whiffs of weeks old camembert.
Those criticisms apart, The Secret of Flirting is an undemanding, quick read featuring two attractive principal characters, a well-drawn secondary cast and an intriguing plot. It’s a solid addition to the Sinful Suitors series and I enjoyed it in spite of my reservations.
March 18, 2018
When Gregory Vyse, Baron Fulkham, met the beautiful French actress, Monique Servais in Dieppe, she was impudent and seemed not at all concerned about his rank or station. Now three years later he is certain the woman he was just introduced to as the Princess Aurore of Chanay is the woman he has not been able to forget. The question is why she is masquerading in such a position and more importantly, who is trying to kill her.
Gregory has a background that hinders his ability to give his heart freely and yet it continues to yearn for the woman who has him in turmoil. Monique, holding her own in a profession that can leave a woman’s reputation in tatters, is simply determined to provide for her grandmother in what few years she may have remaining.
This hero was charming and fun, protective and seductive, and a bit confused how he was to make things work between him and his heroine. Monique was a strong heroine who held her own against him except when he turned the heat up. Then she found herself yielding or tempting him whichever the case may be.
I really enjoyed this romance filled with political intrigue, drama and suspense. There was a sprinkling of humor throughout, a cast of characters to throw suspicion around, and a villain that was not evident until revealed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Pocket Books. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe – oh so safe! No ow/om drama. Hero was celibate from the time he had met the heroine three years prior.
No apparent triggers
Gregory has a background that hinders his ability to give his heart freely and yet it continues to yearn for the woman who has him in turmoil. Monique, holding her own in a profession that can leave a woman’s reputation in tatters, is simply determined to provide for her grandmother in what few years she may have remaining.
This hero was charming and fun, protective and seductive, and a bit confused how he was to make things work between him and his heroine. Monique was a strong heroine who held her own against him except when he turned the heat up. Then she found herself yielding or tempting him whichever the case may be.
I really enjoyed this romance filled with political intrigue, drama and suspense. There was a sprinkling of humor throughout, a cast of characters to throw suspicion around, and a villain that was not evident until revealed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Pocket Books. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe – oh so safe! No ow/om drama. Hero was celibate from the time he had met the heroine three years prior.
No apparent triggers
March 3, 2018
Love her stories! 4.5 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I enjoy standalone series. They have a similar theme and some of the characters are intertwined but not in a way where you are left out of anything. That is a beauty of this series I have been enjoying.
The newest book in this particular series is a wonderful addition. I appreciate that the author takes her time to thoroughly research her history and then enhance it to fit her plot. You get a taste for the rules and rigidity of the past and the titillating excitement of the secret romance that should never be.
I am always wondering how the author will get her characters out of the swamp, so to speak, and onto acceptable ground. This makes for an exciting and a bit of a ‘scandalous’ read in which Jeffries writing shines. There has never been a dull book I have read by her yet!
With plenty of excitement in the story, a decidedly decadent amount of steam, and even some suspenseful intrigue, The Secret of Flirting is a indulgent read for those that love a good historical romance. Jeffries is in top form and adds yet another winner to her line up!
* ARC Copy received for review consideration
Full review- http://amidlifewife.com/the-secret-of...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I enjoy standalone series. They have a similar theme and some of the characters are intertwined but not in a way where you are left out of anything. That is a beauty of this series I have been enjoying.
The newest book in this particular series is a wonderful addition. I appreciate that the author takes her time to thoroughly research her history and then enhance it to fit her plot. You get a taste for the rules and rigidity of the past and the titillating excitement of the secret romance that should never be.
I am always wondering how the author will get her characters out of the swamp, so to speak, and onto acceptable ground. This makes for an exciting and a bit of a ‘scandalous’ read in which Jeffries writing shines. There has never been a dull book I have read by her yet!
With plenty of excitement in the story, a decidedly decadent amount of steam, and even some suspenseful intrigue, The Secret of Flirting is a indulgent read for those that love a good historical romance. Jeffries is in top form and adds yet another winner to her line up!
* ARC Copy received for review consideration
Full review- http://amidlifewife.com/the-secret-of...
January 2, 2022
Hmmm…maybe a 2.5. I'm not really into royalty nor spy characters so this is hard to rate.
Good pacing during the first two-thirds then it started to drag in the last one-third. The resolution was a little anti-climatic because I thought the villain would be eviler.
Good pacing during the first two-thirds then it started to drag in the last one-third. The resolution was a little anti-climatic because I thought the villain would be eviler.
March 22, 2018
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Series: Sinful Suitors #5
Publication Date: 3/27/18
What a delightful fifth book in the Sinful Suitors series. While the book is part of a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone if you haven’t read the previous books. However, all of those books are good and I’d highly recommend reading them. The Secret of Flirting is fast-paced, interesting, well-written and the characters can easily become your new best friends. The book even comes with a lovely epilogue that has some definite sigh-worthy passages – just try this one – Gregory and Monique are speaking about her grandmother’s dementia and that she speaks about her deceased husband as if he were still with her. Gregory says to Monique -- “When you love someone, being apart is the worst punishment of all. I know that if I were here and you had gone on to the great beyond, I would pray to see your ghost every day, even if it meant I was insane.” Be still my heart!
Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham is a very self-controlled and ambitious man. You’ll learn why he’s that way as you read the book. He loves his mother and he is determined to have a successful career in politics. The English government is switching parties, Wellington lost the election and is out as Prime Minister and Earl Grey will be replacing him. That means that a number of the cabinet ministers will be leaving office as well – including Gregory’s boss. Gregory is currently undersecretary to the Foreign Office and he wants to become Foreign Secretary. On the side, Gregory takes care of other little things for the crown – as in – he’s a spymaster. You met him in the previous books, but he didn’t play a huge role – just enough for you to become curious about him.
Monique Servais is an actress in Dieppe, France. She is solely responsible for the care of her elderly grandmother who has dementia and is getting worse every day. Monique rushes home from the theater as soon as the play is over in order to care for her grandmother. She has no social life at all, but that is okay with her because she loves her grandmother above all else. Monique’s grandmother was/is Princess Solange of Chanay. When Solange was young, she fell in love, ran away with, and married an actor. They were passionately in love their entire lives. However, Solange’s family disowned her and while Solange didn’t care about that at all, it would have been much easier on Monique to have some help with Solange’s care. Then, rescue comes in the most unexpected manner. She’s offered the role of a lifetime – all she has to do is pretend to be her cousin who is very ill. If she completes her task successfully, her grandmother will be taken back to Chanay and cared for.
Gregory met Monique backstage at the theater in 1827 while he was on a mission. That meeting did not go very well. There was an instant physical attraction, but they seemed to declare battle instantly. Just imagine Gregory’s surprise when, three years later, he is introduced to Princess Aurore of Chanay and he is absolutely sure that it is really Monique. He remembered every line of her face, her walk – he’d thought of her for three years. He is sure that it is Monique, but he has no proof and he’ll need to be sure before he creates a scandal.
Monique is an amazing actress and manages to confuse Gregory. His whole career and all of his ambitions are on the line. He must find out who she really is – and then there is an attempt on her life. As he protects her and tries to find the culprit they get to know each other. How can a man with high political aspirations marry an actress? The answer is – he can’t. He can make her his mistress, but not his wife.
Can they survive the villain? Can they find a way to love and marriage? You’ll just have to read this delightful book to find all of those answers – and more.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Series: Sinful Suitors #5
Publication Date: 3/27/18
What a delightful fifth book in the Sinful Suitors series. While the book is part of a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone if you haven’t read the previous books. However, all of those books are good and I’d highly recommend reading them. The Secret of Flirting is fast-paced, interesting, well-written and the characters can easily become your new best friends. The book even comes with a lovely epilogue that has some definite sigh-worthy passages – just try this one – Gregory and Monique are speaking about her grandmother’s dementia and that she speaks about her deceased husband as if he were still with her. Gregory says to Monique -- “When you love someone, being apart is the worst punishment of all. I know that if I were here and you had gone on to the great beyond, I would pray to see your ghost every day, even if it meant I was insane.” Be still my heart!
Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham is a very self-controlled and ambitious man. You’ll learn why he’s that way as you read the book. He loves his mother and he is determined to have a successful career in politics. The English government is switching parties, Wellington lost the election and is out as Prime Minister and Earl Grey will be replacing him. That means that a number of the cabinet ministers will be leaving office as well – including Gregory’s boss. Gregory is currently undersecretary to the Foreign Office and he wants to become Foreign Secretary. On the side, Gregory takes care of other little things for the crown – as in – he’s a spymaster. You met him in the previous books, but he didn’t play a huge role – just enough for you to become curious about him.
Monique Servais is an actress in Dieppe, France. She is solely responsible for the care of her elderly grandmother who has dementia and is getting worse every day. Monique rushes home from the theater as soon as the play is over in order to care for her grandmother. She has no social life at all, but that is okay with her because she loves her grandmother above all else. Monique’s grandmother was/is Princess Solange of Chanay. When Solange was young, she fell in love, ran away with, and married an actor. They were passionately in love their entire lives. However, Solange’s family disowned her and while Solange didn’t care about that at all, it would have been much easier on Monique to have some help with Solange’s care. Then, rescue comes in the most unexpected manner. She’s offered the role of a lifetime – all she has to do is pretend to be her cousin who is very ill. If she completes her task successfully, her grandmother will be taken back to Chanay and cared for.
Gregory met Monique backstage at the theater in 1827 while he was on a mission. That meeting did not go very well. There was an instant physical attraction, but they seemed to declare battle instantly. Just imagine Gregory’s surprise when, three years later, he is introduced to Princess Aurore of Chanay and he is absolutely sure that it is really Monique. He remembered every line of her face, her walk – he’d thought of her for three years. He is sure that it is Monique, but he has no proof and he’ll need to be sure before he creates a scandal.
Monique is an amazing actress and manages to confuse Gregory. His whole career and all of his ambitions are on the line. He must find out who she really is – and then there is an attempt on her life. As he protects her and tries to find the culprit they get to know each other. How can a man with high political aspirations marry an actress? The answer is – he can’t. He can make her his mistress, but not his wife.
Can they survive the villain? Can they find a way to love and marriage? You’ll just have to read this delightful book to find all of those answers – and more.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
April 21, 2018
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Pocket in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I will always be a fan of Sabrina Jeffries, her writing is fun and sexy and even though for me, its not what it used to be, I still get a kick out of her writing and this book was so entertaining. And even though it took a while to get into, once I did, I didn't want to put it down here.
This story was pretty wonderful, and brings together the most unlikely match. Our heroine is a famous actress, Monique and upon meeting Gregory, who doesn't like her very much, but he is drawn to her. Its been three years since Gregory has seen the enchanting actress that he hasn't forgotten, and while at a ball in London, he recognizes the Princess of Chanay, and he knows that its Monique. What he doesn't know is why an actress is posing as a princess and he means to get to the bottom of the truth especially with delicate politics involved. But as they spend more time together through a game of flirting and secrets, will their love be their downfall or their salvation....
What a story and I honestly couldn't get enough of the playful banter between the two. Monique has been working as an actress and doing everything she can to provide for her grandmother who is very sick. But then a man approaches her claiming that she is the Princess's cousin, and he needs her help. So she agrees to pose as the Princess while the real Princess is recovering from an illness and in return will be guaranteed security for herself and her grandmother. There are many factors involved in the story and I really loved the political intrigue that is introduced to the story. I did love seeing the romance develop and seeing Gregory and Monique fight for one another here. I think what I loved the most though was the intimacy between our couple and seeing them find their HEA against odds that are against them in full force.
What an intriguing and fun romance with a British Spy for a hero, a Princess for our heroine, a policitical plot with some suspense....shootings, romantic trysts in the garden and a love worth fighting for!!
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I will always be a fan of Sabrina Jeffries, her writing is fun and sexy and even though for me, its not what it used to be, I still get a kick out of her writing and this book was so entertaining. And even though it took a while to get into, once I did, I didn't want to put it down here.
This story was pretty wonderful, and brings together the most unlikely match. Our heroine is a famous actress, Monique and upon meeting Gregory, who doesn't like her very much, but he is drawn to her. Its been three years since Gregory has seen the enchanting actress that he hasn't forgotten, and while at a ball in London, he recognizes the Princess of Chanay, and he knows that its Monique. What he doesn't know is why an actress is posing as a princess and he means to get to the bottom of the truth especially with delicate politics involved. But as they spend more time together through a game of flirting and secrets, will their love be their downfall or their salvation....
What a story and I honestly couldn't get enough of the playful banter between the two. Monique has been working as an actress and doing everything she can to provide for her grandmother who is very sick. But then a man approaches her claiming that she is the Princess's cousin, and he needs her help. So she agrees to pose as the Princess while the real Princess is recovering from an illness and in return will be guaranteed security for herself and her grandmother. There are many factors involved in the story and I really loved the political intrigue that is introduced to the story. I did love seeing the romance develop and seeing Gregory and Monique fight for one another here. I think what I loved the most though was the intimacy between our couple and seeing them find their HEA against odds that are against them in full force.
What an intriguing and fun romance with a British Spy for a hero, a Princess for our heroine, a policitical plot with some suspense....shootings, romantic trysts in the garden and a love worth fighting for!!
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March 29, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
What keeps me coming back to this series is how fun and unexpected the scenarios are. A bit of political intrigue and mystery. Sabrina Jeffries knows how to deliver a great mix of interesting plot and sizzling romance. THE SECRET OF FLIRTING was a perfect example of that.
The setting is England 1830. The conflict is the election of a ruler for Belgium. The heroine is a French actress with family ties to the royalty of Chanay who ends up impersonating the Princess as the candidate to rule Belgium. And the hero is a sexy English Baron and spymaster who hasn't been able to forget the actress he met years before and recognizes her scheme right away. This was such a fun concept and I think the author executed it perfectly.
Another great thing about this story is the fact that it stands alone very well. If you haven't read this series, you won't have any problems reading this book. I admit there was an easy resolution in the end, but I wasn't too mad about that.
I really liked all the political intrigue but also how there's individual struggles for each of the characters to deal with. It made this book feel very well rounded and like a complete story with a lot of dimension.
THE SECRET OF FLIRTING was a fun ride full of danger and great banter. Monique and Gregory were just a delight to read about and I can't wait to read more in this series.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
June 18, 2018
Baron Gregory Fulkham is ALLEGEDLY important to the delegation of dudes picking the ruler of newly independent Belgium in 1830. Monique Servais is ALLEGEDLY identical enough to her cousin the Princess Aurora of Chanay that she can pretend to be her for a few weeks because of blackmail. Gregory recognizes Monique and his loins are AFLAME with both ire and lust.
They bone and it's super romantic you guys except that it's NOT because he's ADAMANT that he won't marry her until he realizes she's a VIRGIN and SUDDENLY IT MATTERS THAT SHE MARRY HIM IMMEDIATELY OMG YOU GUYS.
1. Yeah, this was a trainwreck. The handling of Monique-isn't-a-whore-actress nonsense was not great. And sure, there's absolutely this sense in text that judging an actress by her vocation is GROSS which is absolutely legit, but the OVER-RELIANCE ON """""PURITY""""" as a measuring stick of worth is EVEN GROSSER. It just was bad, kids. Don't do it.
2. I had the very real discordant sensation of reading this book while ultimately imagining the book we could have had at the same time. The set up for a delicious princess-and-the-pauper-minus-some-of-the-classist-bullshit narrative was all there! The hero falls for the woman he thinks is beyond his grasp! The in-disguise-actress falls for the man who is helping decide her cousin's fate! Hijinks! Love!
Except I got none of that and a whole lotta "assassination drama" bs which was just not great.
3. I was into the semi-historically accurate "the world is our chessboard" nonsense with Belgium. Interesting!
4. It was just: not great. Not that fun. Not that exciting. And not that worth it.
They bone and it's super romantic you guys except that it's NOT because he's ADAMANT that he won't marry her until he realizes she's a VIRGIN and SUDDENLY IT MATTERS THAT SHE MARRY HIM IMMEDIATELY OMG YOU GUYS.
1. Yeah, this was a trainwreck. The handling of Monique-isn't-a-whore-actress nonsense was not great. And sure, there's absolutely this sense in text that judging an actress by her vocation is GROSS which is absolutely legit, but the OVER-RELIANCE ON """""PURITY""""" as a measuring stick of worth is EVEN GROSSER. It just was bad, kids. Don't do it.
2. I had the very real discordant sensation of reading this book while ultimately imagining the book we could have had at the same time. The set up for a delicious princess-and-the-pauper-minus-some-of-the-classist-bullshit narrative was all there! The hero falls for the woman he thinks is beyond his grasp! The in-disguise-actress falls for the man who is helping decide her cousin's fate! Hijinks! Love!
Except I got none of that and a whole lotta "assassination drama" bs which was just not great.
3. I was into the semi-historically accurate "the world is our chessboard" nonsense with Belgium. Interesting!
4. It was just: not great. Not that fun. Not that exciting. And not that worth it.
March 24, 2018
The Secret of Flirting by Sabrina Jeffries is book Five in The "Sinful Suitors" series. This is the story of Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham and Princess Anne of Chanay aka Monique Servais. I have read the previous books (and loved them!) in this series but feel this is easily a standalone book.
Monique is trying to take care of her grandmother who has dementia. Monique has taken to becoming an actress which has lead to all her money and spare time going toward helping her Grandmother. Her Grandmother was once the Princess but left family and friends behind to marry an actor. That title has now gone to a cousin and now Monique has been asked to pretend to be that cousin in exchange Monique's Grandmother will be taken care of.
Gregory and Monique had meet a few years back behind acting stage where Monique was working. There was an instant attraction from both ends but nothing further happened. Now in the present day Gregory meets the Princess who he thinks is the actress Monique that he meet and couldn't get off his mind. Monique is a great actress and has Gregory starting to doubt his theory but then an attempt is made on Monique's life that brings her safety to the forefront along with Gregory's feelings. Gregory is trying to make a name for himself in the Political world but he can't do that with an Actress as a wife so can his feelings be anything more?
Really loved their story and must say the sweet Epilogue put the 'Cherry on Top' of this story!
Monique is trying to take care of her grandmother who has dementia. Monique has taken to becoming an actress which has lead to all her money and spare time going toward helping her Grandmother. Her Grandmother was once the Princess but left family and friends behind to marry an actor. That title has now gone to a cousin and now Monique has been asked to pretend to be that cousin in exchange Monique's Grandmother will be taken care of.
Gregory and Monique had meet a few years back behind acting stage where Monique was working. There was an instant attraction from both ends but nothing further happened. Now in the present day Gregory meets the Princess who he thinks is the actress Monique that he meet and couldn't get off his mind. Monique is a great actress and has Gregory starting to doubt his theory but then an attempt is made on Monique's life that brings her safety to the forefront along with Gregory's feelings. Gregory is trying to make a name for himself in the Political world but he can't do that with an Actress as a wife so can his feelings be anything more?
Really loved their story and must say the sweet Epilogue put the 'Cherry on Top' of this story!
February 28, 2018
It is universally accepted that Sabrina Jeffries’ writing is like comfort food – warm, delightful and makes you forget the pile of flaming garbage that 2017 has brought on us, even if it’s only for a snowy afternoon. Her characters always sparkle off the page, the plot is easy flowing and the dialogue is sparking and witty. Honestly, I needed this book right now, much more that the publisher needs my review, so trust me – get a copy as soon as this becomes available and escape to regency England (and a little bit of France) for a few hours, it’s a lovely experience, as usual. Recommend!
March 20, 2018
This has been my least favorite series by Sabrina Jeffries and I just couldn’t get into this title.
May 17, 2021
4.5 stars!
What a fun story! Don’t let this book being the fifth in the series stop you from reading it... because there’s very little mention of past book characters.
This is the story of a French actress (Monique) who is asked to perform the role of her life - impersonating princess Aurore of Chaney. The actual princess is sick and therefore cannot attend an event in England that will decide the future ruler of Belgium (which she is in the running for). Unfortunately for Monique, upon her arrival, she is immediately recognized as herself by Baron Fulkham (the hero). He saw her act on stage in the past, and is certain that she is not the actual princess. Unfortunately, he has no way to prove it and Monique does a good job of denying her identity. To add to the mystery, someone is trying to kill princess Aurore, putting Monique in the line of fire. Baron Fulkham is stuck in the middle, trying to keep “the princess” safe, trying to figure out her true identity, all while also fighting his growing attraction to her.
This was one story that kept me hooked like a fish right through the end. I truly had no clue how the author planned to resolve all the issues faced by the hero & heroine. I was pleasantly surprised by how nicely everything was wrapped up.
Safe; heroine virgin, hero wasn’t a man whore... his past is barely discussed. No om/ow drama.
What a fun story! Don’t let this book being the fifth in the series stop you from reading it... because there’s very little mention of past book characters.
This is the story of a French actress (Monique) who is asked to perform the role of her life - impersonating princess Aurore of Chaney. The actual princess is sick and therefore cannot attend an event in England that will decide the future ruler of Belgium (which she is in the running for). Unfortunately for Monique, upon her arrival, she is immediately recognized as herself by Baron Fulkham (the hero). He saw her act on stage in the past, and is certain that she is not the actual princess. Unfortunately, he has no way to prove it and Monique does a good job of denying her identity. To add to the mystery, someone is trying to kill princess Aurore, putting Monique in the line of fire. Baron Fulkham is stuck in the middle, trying to keep “the princess” safe, trying to figure out her true identity, all while also fighting his growing attraction to her.
This was one story that kept me hooked like a fish right through the end. I truly had no clue how the author planned to resolve all the issues faced by the hero & heroine. I was pleasantly surprised by how nicely everything was wrapped up.
Safe; heroine virgin, hero wasn’t a man whore... his past is barely discussed. No om/ow drama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2018
French actress Monique Servais is playing in Le Mariage de Figaro at the new theater the night she meet Gregory Vyse, Baron Fulkham, the undersecretary of the foreign office. A brief encounter they'll both remember where they argued and flirted at the same time and misjudged each other. Three years later, they'll meet again. No matter what the lady says, Gregory knows that the young woman who introduced herself as Aurore, the Princess of Chanay is not the real princess. She's the same witty actress who impressed him with not only her acting talent but her beauty and her great sense of repartee. He'll try to get her to admit the truth or get caught on a lie but Monique is smarter than that. And what could have convinced her to accept to impersonate a member of royalty ? That's what Fulkham will have to figure out, besides dealing with an unpractical attraction for the lady and other dangerous stuff.
Sabrina Jeffries is one of my auto-buy author. Even when she write a book I deem is not her best, there's always something in it to please me. For me, it's all about the characters and the romance and even if I think this part wasn't totally satisfying in this case, the plot fill with mysteries and politics was entertaining enough to keep my attention. It's just that when it comes to historical romance especially, I prefer tortured heros. Gregory had secrets and misfortunes, but he was okay with all this and I feel like we didn't get a chance to really see deep enough into the characters' psyche. But it's always a great thing when a character speak an other language, whether it's Spanish, Gaelic or in this case, French.
Sabrina Jeffries is one of my auto-buy author. Even when she write a book I deem is not her best, there's always something in it to please me. For me, it's all about the characters and the romance and even if I think this part wasn't totally satisfying in this case, the plot fill with mysteries and politics was entertaining enough to keep my attention. It's just that when it comes to historical romance especially, I prefer tortured heros. Gregory had secrets and misfortunes, but he was okay with all this and I feel like we didn't get a chance to really see deep enough into the characters' psyche. But it's always a great thing when a character speak an other language, whether it's Spanish, Gaelic or in this case, French.
December 11, 2017
A flirty and fun romance between an actress playing a real life potential ruler of Belgium and the London political who recognizes her. The mystery of the assassination attempts on the princess get a bit convoluted.Otherwise, the characters and dialogue are both well drawn. A satisfying epilogue completes the whole package. This is the first romance by this author that I have read but it won't be the last.
Copy provided by the Publisher and NetGalley
Copy provided by the Publisher and NetGalley
April 12, 2018
This is the fifth installment in the series but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I’ve only read a couple of the previous books and truthfully I never felt lost or felt like something needed explained. I think that’s always a big plus when it comes to series.
I think my favorite character here was Monique. From the moment we meet her she’s witty, composed, compassionate, and loyal. She stays true to her character even when she’s posing as her cousin, Princess Aurore of Chanay, candidate for the throne of recently independent country of Belgium. Another thing I liked about the story was the witty banter. If you’ve heard rumors this author delivers when it comes to that I assure you the rumors are completely true.
The plot in itself was engrossing from the get go. We have assassination attempts, political intrigues, family secrets, and even a love story that was considered taboo at the time. Other reviews say the plot was confusing but I didn’t find it so. However, what I did find difficult to understand was Gregory’s personality.
Gregory, or Lord Fulkham, undersecretary of state (and unofficially “spymaster”) having met Monique a few years prior, and being the one responsible for deciding who would be Belgium’s new ruler, took it upon himself to unmask Monique. At any rate, it didn’t feel he was doing it because it was the right thing to do but because it would further his own political ambitions. Also, the way he treated Monique throughout most of the story felt wrong. In truth, the more I read the more I disliked the man and made it hard for me to get why she fell in love with the guy. It wasn’t until almost the end of the book that I warmed a little to him and the romance took another light.
All that being said, I won’t deny that at times it was hard to put the book down. Even with all my nitpickin, the chemistry between the main characters felt real and the suspense was enough to keep me turning the pages.
**I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.**
I think my favorite character here was Monique. From the moment we meet her she’s witty, composed, compassionate, and loyal. She stays true to her character even when she’s posing as her cousin, Princess Aurore of Chanay, candidate for the throne of recently independent country of Belgium. Another thing I liked about the story was the witty banter. If you’ve heard rumors this author delivers when it comes to that I assure you the rumors are completely true.
The plot in itself was engrossing from the get go. We have assassination attempts, political intrigues, family secrets, and even a love story that was considered taboo at the time. Other reviews say the plot was confusing but I didn’t find it so. However, what I did find difficult to understand was Gregory’s personality.
Gregory, or Lord Fulkham, undersecretary of state (and unofficially “spymaster”) having met Monique a few years prior, and being the one responsible for deciding who would be Belgium’s new ruler, took it upon himself to unmask Monique. At any rate, it didn’t feel he was doing it because it was the right thing to do but because it would further his own political ambitions. Also, the way he treated Monique throughout most of the story felt wrong. In truth, the more I read the more I disliked the man and made it hard for me to get why she fell in love with the guy. It wasn’t until almost the end of the book that I warmed a little to him and the romance took another light.
All that being said, I won’t deny that at times it was hard to put the book down. Even with all my nitpickin, the chemistry between the main characters felt real and the suspense was enough to keep me turning the pages.
**I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.**
March 9, 2018
I love the premise of this book. The Princess of Chanay is in the running to be the new Queen of Belgium, but she's fallen suddenly ill so her long-lost cousin, the French actress Monique who bears a striking resemblance to the real princess, is called upon to take the princess's place... Ooh, intrigue! The potential for mistaken identities to wreak havoc! My catnip. :)
I liked Monique a lot. She's such a strong woman, as well as caring so much for her grandmother. I do love a feisty leading lady, and I love the way she repeatedly challenges Gregory. Him, I had more problems with, but I appreciate the growth he goes through as he realizes that by shutting his emotions away to avoid painful memories, he is also shutting out the positive emotions like joy and love. Both of them let their own pride, insecurity, and fear get in the way of what they both really want, and there were a few moments that my heart positively ached for these somewhat star-crossed lovers. I also really liked the inclusion of Lady Ursula and her situation, as you don't often see many [spoilers removed] in Regency romances.
There was a section of this book where Gregory kept calling Monique "my sweet" in every dang sentence, which was like nails on a chalkboard to me for some reason. Ugh. For the most part, though, this book kept me enthralled and I hated to put it down, and I now must immediately go read the first four books in the series.
This is the fifth book in the series, but can be read as a stand alone. Characters from the previous books are minor side characters in this one, and the only real benefit to reading the other books first would be so you're not horribly confused about all these established couples chattering about. The epilogue also sets up a bit the idea that the sixth book will be about Gregory's friend Hart.
I liked Monique a lot. She's such a strong woman, as well as caring so much for her grandmother. I do love a feisty leading lady, and I love the way she repeatedly challenges Gregory. Him, I had more problems with, but I appreciate the growth he goes through as he realizes that by shutting his emotions away to avoid painful memories, he is also shutting out the positive emotions like joy and love. Both of them let their own pride, insecurity, and fear get in the way of what they both really want, and there were a few moments that my heart positively ached for these somewhat star-crossed lovers. I also really liked the inclusion of Lady Ursula and her situation, as you don't often see many [spoilers removed] in Regency romances.
There was a section of this book where Gregory kept calling Monique "my sweet" in every dang sentence, which was like nails on a chalkboard to me for some reason. Ugh. For the most part, though, this book kept me enthralled and I hated to put it down, and I now must immediately go read the first four books in the series.
This is the fifth book in the series, but can be read as a stand alone. Characters from the previous books are minor side characters in this one, and the only real benefit to reading the other books first would be so you're not horribly confused about all these established couples chattering about. The epilogue also sets up a bit the idea that the sixth book will be about Gregory's friend Hart.
December 12, 2017
While I had a little trouble getting into this book, overall it’s a quick read even though it’s over 400 pages. There’s a lot more action and suspense then I thought there’d be, which I enjoyed. And of course a romance at the heart of it all.
March 29, 2018
I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
FINAL DECISION: I really enjoyed this one. Jumping off from real historical events, this book is improbable at times, but the relationship between Fulkham and Monique is testy and witty and quite lovely.
THE STORY: Spymaster Gregory Vyse, Baron Fulkham, is at a pivotal moment of his career when he is to participate in the choosing of the first royalty of Belgium. One of the contenders, Princess Aurore of Chanay, is the favorite. But Fulkham also believes her an imposter as he thinks he met her three years before when she was Monique Servais, an accomplished actress. Fulkham is entangled with trying to figure out what she is up to when an attempted assassination and Fulkham's own attraction to the purported princess threaten his career.
OPINION: The one was very enjoyable because of the relationship between the characters. I especially enjoyed the witty banter and verbal combat between the hero and heroine. These two are working on outsmarting one another from the moment they meet.
The strength of the story in this book is clearly that it is based on real events. Although, as acknowledged in the author's note, liberties are taken with the storyline, by giving this book true historical events gives it a grounding in its historical times. The book always feels time relevant with the issues and concerns of the times.
Monique is a woman who is accomplished, but her desire to care for her grandmother leads her into intrigue and Fulkham's world. I really enjoyed the combination of her worldliness and her naivety at the machinations of others. Her dignity and cleverness was a good match for Fulkham. And while some of the events in the story seem unbelievable, her innate believable actions as a character allow the events that seem improbable to work in the story. I liked Monique.
Fulkham is a man with many secrets -- some his country's and some his own. He becomes entwined with Monique as he tries to figure out what she is doing. He is a man who acts carefully and deliberately -- except when it comes to Monique. I loved that she gets under his skin and makes him act in all the ways he never expects. Fulkham's ultimate willingness to do whatever it takes to be with Monique is romantic and a fine comeuppance for the spymaster.
I really enjoyed this book. The pacing and development of the plot and the romance just worked so well for me. It never felt rushed or lagging. The series is coming to a conclusion on a definite high note.
WORTH MENTIONING: For fans of the series, there are small updates about the other couples and the setup for the final novella of the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE SECRET TO FLIRTING is the fifth book in the Sinful Suitors series. While there are overlapping characters, this book can be read on its own as it provides all the information about the characters that you need to enjoy it.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to prepare a review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
FINAL DECISION: I really enjoyed this one. Jumping off from real historical events, this book is improbable at times, but the relationship between Fulkham and Monique is testy and witty and quite lovely.
THE STORY: Spymaster Gregory Vyse, Baron Fulkham, is at a pivotal moment of his career when he is to participate in the choosing of the first royalty of Belgium. One of the contenders, Princess Aurore of Chanay, is the favorite. But Fulkham also believes her an imposter as he thinks he met her three years before when she was Monique Servais, an accomplished actress. Fulkham is entangled with trying to figure out what she is up to when an attempted assassination and Fulkham's own attraction to the purported princess threaten his career.
OPINION: The one was very enjoyable because of the relationship between the characters. I especially enjoyed the witty banter and verbal combat between the hero and heroine. These two are working on outsmarting one another from the moment they meet.
The strength of the story in this book is clearly that it is based on real events. Although, as acknowledged in the author's note, liberties are taken with the storyline, by giving this book true historical events gives it a grounding in its historical times. The book always feels time relevant with the issues and concerns of the times.
Monique is a woman who is accomplished, but her desire to care for her grandmother leads her into intrigue and Fulkham's world. I really enjoyed the combination of her worldliness and her naivety at the machinations of others. Her dignity and cleverness was a good match for Fulkham. And while some of the events in the story seem unbelievable, her innate believable actions as a character allow the events that seem improbable to work in the story. I liked Monique.
Fulkham is a man with many secrets -- some his country's and some his own. He becomes entwined with Monique as he tries to figure out what she is doing. He is a man who acts carefully and deliberately -- except when it comes to Monique. I loved that she gets under his skin and makes him act in all the ways he never expects. Fulkham's ultimate willingness to do whatever it takes to be with Monique is romantic and a fine comeuppance for the spymaster.
I really enjoyed this book. The pacing and development of the plot and the romance just worked so well for me. It never felt rushed or lagging. The series is coming to a conclusion on a definite high note.
WORTH MENTIONING: For fans of the series, there are small updates about the other couples and the setup for the final novella of the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE SECRET TO FLIRTING is the fifth book in the Sinful Suitors series. While there are overlapping characters, this book can be read on its own as it provides all the information about the characters that you need to enjoy it.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to prepare a review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
March 20, 2018
The Secret of Flirting is the fifth book in the Sinful Suitors series by Sabrina Jeffries. Although it's part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone book.
Monique Servais is an actress. Any money she makes she puts towards looking after her darling grandmother who sadly is suffering from dementia. It's getting harder spending time away from home because her grandmother is starting to wander. It's with great relief that Monique is offered the opportunity of a lifetime. It's dangerous but the rewards are worth it because her grandmother will be accepted back into the royal family from which she was exiled years ago when she married an actor. With that acceptance, she will also be allowed home to Chanay, and be properly cared for. All Monique has to do is agree to impersonate her cousin, Princess Aurore of Chanay during a delegation where votes will be cast for the person they want to become ruler of Belgium. If Monique can't convince everybody that she is the Princess and charm them into voting for her, then her grandmother still won't be helped.
When Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham, English Spymaster attends one of the social events involved with the delegation he meets Monique as the Princess. He knows he has never met her, yet he also knows she reminds him very much of a person he has met before, but who? A little bit of thought and much watching of the Princess and Fulkham remembers who she reminds him of, and then is convinced that she is indeed that woman...Monique Servais, the actress he met 3 years ago and whom he felt an automatic pull towards. What on Earth is going on, why is she pretending to be the Princess? Where is the real Princess? As a spymaster, it's his place to find out exactly what is going on. He needs to get her to own up to who she is, or trip her up. One way or another he is going to oust her trickery!
What follows is the amazingly exciting story of how indeed Fulkham gets the truth from Monique, but he is very surprised when he finds out what it is. When attempts are made at her life, the story thickens and Fulkham has to allow Monique her farce in order to find out who the assassin is. Will he discover soon enough in order to keep her safe? Will he find out what exactly has happened to the real Princess, and on a personal note, will he be able to keep his hands off the very real, very beautiful Monique Servais?
There was never a dull moment to this story, from the very first meeting between Monique and Fulkham at the theatre to the very last pages when everything came to its conclusion I was enthralled. There was so much subterfuge, twists and turns, and of course the ever-present lust and passion between our main couple. I really enjoyed their story and can't fault it at all.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
Monique Servais is an actress. Any money she makes she puts towards looking after her darling grandmother who sadly is suffering from dementia. It's getting harder spending time away from home because her grandmother is starting to wander. It's with great relief that Monique is offered the opportunity of a lifetime. It's dangerous but the rewards are worth it because her grandmother will be accepted back into the royal family from which she was exiled years ago when she married an actor. With that acceptance, she will also be allowed home to Chanay, and be properly cared for. All Monique has to do is agree to impersonate her cousin, Princess Aurore of Chanay during a delegation where votes will be cast for the person they want to become ruler of Belgium. If Monique can't convince everybody that she is the Princess and charm them into voting for her, then her grandmother still won't be helped.
When Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham, English Spymaster attends one of the social events involved with the delegation he meets Monique as the Princess. He knows he has never met her, yet he also knows she reminds him very much of a person he has met before, but who? A little bit of thought and much watching of the Princess and Fulkham remembers who she reminds him of, and then is convinced that she is indeed that woman...Monique Servais, the actress he met 3 years ago and whom he felt an automatic pull towards. What on Earth is going on, why is she pretending to be the Princess? Where is the real Princess? As a spymaster, it's his place to find out exactly what is going on. He needs to get her to own up to who she is, or trip her up. One way or another he is going to oust her trickery!
What follows is the amazingly exciting story of how indeed Fulkham gets the truth from Monique, but he is very surprised when he finds out what it is. When attempts are made at her life, the story thickens and Fulkham has to allow Monique her farce in order to find out who the assassin is. Will he discover soon enough in order to keep her safe? Will he find out what exactly has happened to the real Princess, and on a personal note, will he be able to keep his hands off the very real, very beautiful Monique Servais?
There was never a dull moment to this story, from the very first meeting between Monique and Fulkham at the theatre to the very last pages when everything came to its conclusion I was enthralled. There was so much subterfuge, twists and turns, and of course the ever-present lust and passion between our main couple. I really enjoyed their story and can't fault it at all.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
March 17, 2018
4.5 stars
The first time Gregory Vyse, Baron Fulkham and Monique Servais meet after he sees her in a play, it is definitely not love at first sight, yet neither ever forgets the other.
Three years later Monique is still an actress in Dieppe, France, but due to the decline of her grandmother, she no longer has the lead roles, she wonders how much longer she can care for her grandmother working as an actress. Life has not always been kind to Monique and she doesn't trust love, from her perspective love equals pain. But just when it seems she will have to do the unthinkable to support her grandmother, she gets a surprise visit from her grand-uncle, Count de Beaumonde comes to see her and makes her an offer that could solve all her problems. Her grandmother is Princess Solange of the royal family of Chanay. Her family disowned her when she married an actor, but now the Count (Solange's BIL) will take them back to the palace and see to Solange's care, if Monique will impersonate her cousin Princess Aurore and travel to England for the selection of the new monarch of Belgium - Aurore is the top candidate, but is deathly ill since arriving in France. Monique agrees, she and Aurore look almost identical and she is already familiar with Chanay thanks to her grandmother - what could go wrong?
The first gathering she attends, Monique discovers exactly what could go wrong - Baron Fulkham! Gregory can't believe his eyes, the actress from Dieppe is impersonating Princess Aurore and as a member of the delegation, he cannot not let this imposter take the throne - but first he wants to know what their scheme is and sets out to unmask Monique.
Monique and Gregory are priceless together, he trying to get her to confess that she is Monique and her maintaining her role. But when her life is put in danger, Gregory doesn't care who she is, he will protect her. Monique tells Gregory the truth of her ruse and begs him not to reveal the deception. Gregory agrees, but he will find out who is trying to kill the princess.
When Gregory learns that some is looking into his past trying to uncover his secrets and another attempt on Monique's life is made, Gregory forms a plan. A plan that ends in him marrying Monique, but will she agree?
This is a very fast paced, well written story with wonderful characters, witty dialogue, steamy love scenes, a bit of intrigue, secrets and seemingly no chance for a HEA. But this is Sabrina Jeffries and she is able to make the impossible possible - with a surprising twist!
This is the fifth book in the series, but it is very loosely tied to the previous books and could easily be read as a stand alone title. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to Hart's story.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to my by NetGalley and the publisher*
The first time Gregory Vyse, Baron Fulkham and Monique Servais meet after he sees her in a play, it is definitely not love at first sight, yet neither ever forgets the other.
Three years later Monique is still an actress in Dieppe, France, but due to the decline of her grandmother, she no longer has the lead roles, she wonders how much longer she can care for her grandmother working as an actress. Life has not always been kind to Monique and she doesn't trust love, from her perspective love equals pain. But just when it seems she will have to do the unthinkable to support her grandmother, she gets a surprise visit from her grand-uncle, Count de Beaumonde comes to see her and makes her an offer that could solve all her problems. Her grandmother is Princess Solange of the royal family of Chanay. Her family disowned her when she married an actor, but now the Count (Solange's BIL) will take them back to the palace and see to Solange's care, if Monique will impersonate her cousin Princess Aurore and travel to England for the selection of the new monarch of Belgium - Aurore is the top candidate, but is deathly ill since arriving in France. Monique agrees, she and Aurore look almost identical and she is already familiar with Chanay thanks to her grandmother - what could go wrong?
The first gathering she attends, Monique discovers exactly what could go wrong - Baron Fulkham! Gregory can't believe his eyes, the actress from Dieppe is impersonating Princess Aurore and as a member of the delegation, he cannot not let this imposter take the throne - but first he wants to know what their scheme is and sets out to unmask Monique.
Monique and Gregory are priceless together, he trying to get her to confess that she is Monique and her maintaining her role. But when her life is put in danger, Gregory doesn't care who she is, he will protect her. Monique tells Gregory the truth of her ruse and begs him not to reveal the deception. Gregory agrees, but he will find out who is trying to kill the princess.
When Gregory learns that some is looking into his past trying to uncover his secrets and another attempt on Monique's life is made, Gregory forms a plan. A plan that ends in him marrying Monique, but will she agree?
This is a very fast paced, well written story with wonderful characters, witty dialogue, steamy love scenes, a bit of intrigue, secrets and seemingly no chance for a HEA. But this is Sabrina Jeffries and she is able to make the impossible possible - with a surprising twist!
This is the fifth book in the series, but it is very loosely tied to the previous books and could easily be read as a stand alone title. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to Hart's story.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to my by NetGalley and the publisher*
March 5, 2018
What could be better than action, romance, and intrigue! The Secret of Flirting, the newest addition to Sabrina Jeffries’ Sinful Suitors series, has it all. With its clever characters, political maneuverings, and titillating romance, readers won’t be able to put this one down.
Mademoiselle Monique Servaise is a talented stage actress. But lately, she’s been unable to devote as much time to her career. Caring for her grandmother who suffers from dementia is requiring more and more of her time. Though Monique loved her grandmother and was happy to care for her, she loved her career as well. When the royal family who had exiled her grandmother from Chanay years ago shows up with a proposition, it may be the answer to Monique’s prayers. The family offers to take Monique’s grandmother in and care for her in the way she deserves if Monique will impersonate the ailing Princess Aurore at the London Conference in her bid to become Belgium’s ruler. No one had seen the reclusive princess except for in pictures. Monique had played many roles but this one would be her most important yet. She must succeed for the sake of her grandmother.
When Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham, met Chanay’s Princess Aurore at a royal banquet, something about her nagged at his memory. As a spymaster with the foreign office, he noticed things about people. And he definitely remembered that voluptuous bosom and prominent chin. She’d captivated him on stage 3 years ago in Dieppe. He’d met her briefly afterwards. She was sensuous but graceful. An elegant siren. She’d seemed to assess him, to weigh his worth. Much like he did with others. The verbal sparring they’d shared had made him lose control. He never lost control. Why was she in London impersonating Princess Aurore? Of course, she denied his accusation. She was good at maintaining her role. She was sly as a courtesan. And twice as tempting. Why the masquerade? Why her? And why did she get under his skin? As undersecretary for the foreign office and overseeing the selection of the new ruler of Belgium, he needed to get to the bottom of this or his career could be ruined. One way or another, Gregory planned to unravel this mystery.
What follows is a delightful cat and mouse romp with Gregory attempting to get Monique to slip up and Monique being equally as clever. Gregory’s attempts to throw Monique off her game only heighten his attraction and desire for her. And for Monique, turning the tables on Gregory only leaves her feeling aroused and dizzy. Control was essential for both these characters and it was such a delight to see that control slip. When an attempt is made on Monique’s life, the two are thrown together even more and their feelings and desire for one another grow rapidly. Gregory soon finds himself in a situation that could destroy his career and ruin Monique as well.
I fell in love with Gregory and Monique. They were such a perfect match, both so canny and quick-witted. It was such fun to see them spar with one another. The sexual tension simmering under each encounter was delicious. Their desire for one another was obvious, but they both stood to lose a great deal if the other succeeded. The added mystery and twists and turns only added to the thrill of this captivating story. This entire series has been a real delight to read. Sabrina Jeffries weaves rich historical detail, beautiful love stories, and a twist of mystery together in a way that seduces its readers page by page.
Mademoiselle Monique Servaise is a talented stage actress. But lately, she’s been unable to devote as much time to her career. Caring for her grandmother who suffers from dementia is requiring more and more of her time. Though Monique loved her grandmother and was happy to care for her, she loved her career as well. When the royal family who had exiled her grandmother from Chanay years ago shows up with a proposition, it may be the answer to Monique’s prayers. The family offers to take Monique’s grandmother in and care for her in the way she deserves if Monique will impersonate the ailing Princess Aurore at the London Conference in her bid to become Belgium’s ruler. No one had seen the reclusive princess except for in pictures. Monique had played many roles but this one would be her most important yet. She must succeed for the sake of her grandmother.
When Gregory Vyse, Baron of Fulkham, met Chanay’s Princess Aurore at a royal banquet, something about her nagged at his memory. As a spymaster with the foreign office, he noticed things about people. And he definitely remembered that voluptuous bosom and prominent chin. She’d captivated him on stage 3 years ago in Dieppe. He’d met her briefly afterwards. She was sensuous but graceful. An elegant siren. She’d seemed to assess him, to weigh his worth. Much like he did with others. The verbal sparring they’d shared had made him lose control. He never lost control. Why was she in London impersonating Princess Aurore? Of course, she denied his accusation. She was good at maintaining her role. She was sly as a courtesan. And twice as tempting. Why the masquerade? Why her? And why did she get under his skin? As undersecretary for the foreign office and overseeing the selection of the new ruler of Belgium, he needed to get to the bottom of this or his career could be ruined. One way or another, Gregory planned to unravel this mystery.
What follows is a delightful cat and mouse romp with Gregory attempting to get Monique to slip up and Monique being equally as clever. Gregory’s attempts to throw Monique off her game only heighten his attraction and desire for her. And for Monique, turning the tables on Gregory only leaves her feeling aroused and dizzy. Control was essential for both these characters and it was such a delight to see that control slip. When an attempt is made on Monique’s life, the two are thrown together even more and their feelings and desire for one another grow rapidly. Gregory soon finds himself in a situation that could destroy his career and ruin Monique as well.
I fell in love with Gregory and Monique. They were such a perfect match, both so canny and quick-witted. It was such fun to see them spar with one another. The sexual tension simmering under each encounter was delicious. Their desire for one another was obvious, but they both stood to lose a great deal if the other succeeded. The added mystery and twists and turns only added to the thrill of this captivating story. This entire series has been a real delight to read. Sabrina Jeffries weaves rich historical detail, beautiful love stories, and a twist of mystery together in a way that seduces its readers page by page.
March 25, 2018
When I see a book by Sabrina Jeffries, I know before reading that I will be lost in a wonderful world of the imagination. I picked up a book of hers years ago, "The Truth About Lord Stoneville" and it opened up the world of historical romance for me again after a few years hiatus. I have been hooked ever since! This author has a wonderful prose that draws you quickly into the story and it is easy to get lost in the characters. Such is the case with the hero Gregory, Baron Fulkham, spymaster (yes we have a wonderful spy!) and actress, Monique Servais aka Princess Anne of Chanay (which she isn't!). Does that get your attention yet? It should because this is a story of things not being what they seem but outside forces make it seem so. Monique is the granddaughter of a Royal princess of Chanay but ran away with an actor years ago and became an actress. Estranged from her family she meets Gregory after one of her performances but nothing comes of it. Fast forward three years later, Monique is taking care of her grandmother and asked to impersonate her cousin and pretend to be a royal. Gregory steps back into the picture and just knows, Monique is the girl he met years ago. This story is full of intrigue, suspense, betrayal and yes a romance. I so enjoyed this tale and although part of a series, this can be read as a standalone. Do not let this one pass you by!
August 18, 2018
3.75 Stars!
March 27, 2018
The Secret of Flirting by Sabrina Jeffries is the first book I have read of hers. I thought it was a great read and an unexpected pleasure. This is not the first book in the series but it can be read as a stand alone. I am certainly going to read the previous books and look forward to it. I received an advanced readers copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review, and I highly recommend this book.
Baron Fulkham meets Monique Servais after one of her performances in Dieppe France. Three years later he meets Princess Anne of Chanay and just knows they are one in the same person. Princess Anne is in Britain vying for her chance to become Queen of Belgium. It is Fulham’s job to figure out if the Princess and Monique are the same person, if they are, why is Monique masquerading as the Princess.
This book has court intrigue, assassination attempts, spymasters, actresses, love, romance, blackmail, adventure. If you like any of these in a book, this one is for you.
Baron Fulkham meets Monique Servais after one of her performances in Dieppe France. Three years later he meets Princess Anne of Chanay and just knows they are one in the same person. Princess Anne is in Britain vying for her chance to become Queen of Belgium. It is Fulham’s job to figure out if the Princess and Monique are the same person, if they are, why is Monique masquerading as the Princess.
This book has court intrigue, assassination attempts, spymasters, actresses, love, romance, blackmail, adventure. If you like any of these in a book, this one is for you.
April 21, 2018
The Secret of Flirting was such a good story. Subterfuge. Assassination attempts. Conferences. I loved it!
December 3, 2024
I think this one might be my favorite in this series so far. I really enjoyed this one. It was a false identity, but it was clear right away that the MMC knew who the FMC was, so I really liked that aspect. I liked all the banter and flirting between the two characters. I liked that they worked together to try to solve something and how they kept getting close to one another. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrator. I thought this was a great read overall!
April 1, 2018
Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews (Blog post MAY have additional content such as playlists, interviews, giveaways, etc).
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? When the Baron Fulkham meets the reclusive princess of Chanay he’s absolutely certain that she’s an imposter, an actress he briefly met three years before named Monique Servais. As he investigates further he finds more than he bargained for, including some very inconvenient feelings for a woman who is either a princess beyond his reach, or a charlatan who needs to be exposed.
Overall reaction to the story?The Secret of Flirting was everything I had hoped it to be an a dash extra. A historical romance with a spy or two will always get extra points with me at the start but it’s how the author handles the plot and characters that will determine how much I enjoy the book. Fulkham and Monique were delightful characters, full of life and very engaging. I relished their verbal sparring each and every time.
Fulkham has been in and out of the Sinful Suitors series for a while and it was about time he got to have the spotlight. I’ll admit that he always seemed aloof, standoffish, and rather mechanical in previous books but it was fun to watch him show a more human side of himself. Who knew he had a soft spot for his mother? Or that he wasn’t Mr. Perfect all the time? I loved the less than perfect side of him because it made him more relatable as a character but at the same time he was still very capable of doing his job and thinking on his feet.
Monique was such a great heroine, she was as intelligent as she was talented. While she wasn’t a spy like Fulkham, she was an actress and was more than able to pull off the huge charade that was expected of her. I loved that her inner strength wasn’t without its vulnerabilities and doubts, she was terrified of disappointing the people who depended on her. That didn’t stop her from going head to head with Fulkham though and this is one of the things I love best about Sabrina Jeffries, she always has heroines who can put a man off balance emotionally and mentally. These women may be small in stature and live in a time where women were thought of as little more than cattle, but Jeffries manages to make her heroines strong in ways that don’t take away from the period they live in. Monique was competent enough with her subterfuge to make her convincing but not so good as to make her seem like a natural born spy. I enjoyed her pluck and candor immensely.
The real fireworks of the story always happened when Fulkham and Monique were together though. These two just didn’t give an inch in their war of wits. I love that Monique could easily get under Fulkham’s skin and make him feel like a newbie at just about everything. He was a man who prided himself on his self control but with just a few words, Monique could unravel him like a cat unravels a ball of yarn. I love a good enemies to lovers romance, Fulkham and Monique’s personalities clashed in the beginning but as they got to know one another that changed and all that energy they spent fighting went into the great chemistry they were building.
And I totally heard Beyond the Veil by Lindsey Sterling playing during one scene that involved dancing and some naughty flirting between Fulkham and Monique.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. Sabrina Jeffries knows how to make a reader smile and have a good time.
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? When the Baron Fulkham meets the reclusive princess of Chanay he’s absolutely certain that she’s an imposter, an actress he briefly met three years before named Monique Servais. As he investigates further he finds more than he bargained for, including some very inconvenient feelings for a woman who is either a princess beyond his reach, or a charlatan who needs to be exposed.
Overall reaction to the story?The Secret of Flirting was everything I had hoped it to be an a dash extra. A historical romance with a spy or two will always get extra points with me at the start but it’s how the author handles the plot and characters that will determine how much I enjoy the book. Fulkham and Monique were delightful characters, full of life and very engaging. I relished their verbal sparring each and every time.
Fulkham has been in and out of the Sinful Suitors series for a while and it was about time he got to have the spotlight. I’ll admit that he always seemed aloof, standoffish, and rather mechanical in previous books but it was fun to watch him show a more human side of himself. Who knew he had a soft spot for his mother? Or that he wasn’t Mr. Perfect all the time? I loved the less than perfect side of him because it made him more relatable as a character but at the same time he was still very capable of doing his job and thinking on his feet.
Monique was such a great heroine, she was as intelligent as she was talented. While she wasn’t a spy like Fulkham, she was an actress and was more than able to pull off the huge charade that was expected of her. I loved that her inner strength wasn’t without its vulnerabilities and doubts, she was terrified of disappointing the people who depended on her. That didn’t stop her from going head to head with Fulkham though and this is one of the things I love best about Sabrina Jeffries, she always has heroines who can put a man off balance emotionally and mentally. These women may be small in stature and live in a time where women were thought of as little more than cattle, but Jeffries manages to make her heroines strong in ways that don’t take away from the period they live in. Monique was competent enough with her subterfuge to make her convincing but not so good as to make her seem like a natural born spy. I enjoyed her pluck and candor immensely.
The real fireworks of the story always happened when Fulkham and Monique were together though. These two just didn’t give an inch in their war of wits. I love that Monique could easily get under Fulkham’s skin and make him feel like a newbie at just about everything. He was a man who prided himself on his self control but with just a few words, Monique could unravel him like a cat unravels a ball of yarn. I love a good enemies to lovers romance, Fulkham and Monique’s personalities clashed in the beginning but as they got to know one another that changed and all that energy they spent fighting went into the great chemistry they were building.
And I totally heard Beyond the Veil by Lindsey Sterling playing during one scene that involved dancing and some naughty flirting between Fulkham and Monique.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. Sabrina Jeffries knows how to make a reader smile and have a good time.
February 10, 2020
Huh. I enjoyed this more than I expected. Possibly because I read it right after "Devil's Love" by Julia London, and that book was awful. This book was wonderful because the two leads are smart, capable and likable.
The hero, Baron Fulkham, Gregory Vyse, is a spymaster/ undersecretary of war. He's a workaholic we've seen in past books, manipulating and managing others' lives.
The heroine is Monique Servais, an actress who is related to royalty (her grandmother was disowned by her princely family when she married an actor).
The pair first meet backstage after one of her performances. Their sparring was just lovely-- I enjoyed watching the rigidly controlled Fulkham thrown off balance.
Fast forward three years. Monique doesn't have enough money to care for her grandmother who is afflicted with dementia. Out of thin air, a distant relative shows up and asks her to impersonate the princess of Chanay, at an upcoming British conference of European powers to select the new ruler of Belgium. The real princess is afflicted by a serious illness and to keep her and her kingdom in contention, this ruse is necessary.
Of course Fulkham is in charge of the conference, and he sees through Monique, even if no one else does. The plot is a series of push-me-pull-you's, as he attempts to figure out the ruse, there are attempts made on Monique/the princess' life, and it's all quite nuts.
I enjoyed Gregory a great deal, especially more so after some of the crap books I've read preceding this one. He's a workaholic, ambitious, but underneath it a basically good person, and surprisingly moral and ethical when it comes to women. In Monique he found someone who could hold her own against him, but who also viewed him without judgment.
A couple of scenes toward the end are a bit overwrought, but par for the course in romance. Overall though, a lovely book about two smart, well-matched people finding love.
The hero, Baron Fulkham, Gregory Vyse, is a spymaster/ undersecretary of war. He's a workaholic we've seen in past books, manipulating and managing others' lives.
The heroine is Monique Servais, an actress who is related to royalty (her grandmother was disowned by her princely family when she married an actor).
The pair first meet backstage after one of her performances. Their sparring was just lovely-- I enjoyed watching the rigidly controlled Fulkham thrown off balance.
Fast forward three years. Monique doesn't have enough money to care for her grandmother who is afflicted with dementia. Out of thin air, a distant relative shows up and asks her to impersonate the princess of Chanay, at an upcoming British conference of European powers to select the new ruler of Belgium. The real princess is afflicted by a serious illness and to keep her and her kingdom in contention, this ruse is necessary.
Of course Fulkham is in charge of the conference, and he sees through Monique, even if no one else does. The plot is a series of push-me-pull-you's, as he attempts to figure out the ruse, there are attempts made on Monique/the princess' life, and it's all quite nuts.
I enjoyed Gregory a great deal, especially more so after some of the crap books I've read preceding this one. He's a workaholic, ambitious, but underneath it a basically good person, and surprisingly moral and ethical when it comes to women. In Monique he found someone who could hold her own against him, but who also viewed him without judgment.
A couple of scenes toward the end are a bit overwrought, but par for the course in romance. Overall though, a lovely book about two smart, well-matched people finding love.
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