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Spies and Lovers #3
A Reckless Redemption
Can a single night’s deception lead to a lifelong love?
On the eve of her wedding to a man she detests, Brynmore McCann can think of only one way to escape—by ruining herself—but the local lads leave her wholly uninspired. Just as she’s ready to accept her fate, she spots Maxwell Drake, home after nearly a decade. Even though he had loved her sister when they were young, Bryn has always considered him hers, and she can’t think of anyone she’d rather have bed her for the first time. Only she never intends for him to uncover her real name.
Upon returning home, Maxwell is stunned by the news that his father may have left him an inheritance. As the unacknowledged by-blow of a local nobleman, Maxwell struggles with resentment over the way he and his mother were treated by his father and the village. To add to his troubles, he discovers the lass he spent an incredibly satisfying night with was not the village whore, but the high-born sister of his first love. He insists Brynmore travel with him to Edinburgh until they determine if she is with child. Because if she is, she’ll marry him whether she wants to or not.
Along the road to Edinburgh, they are attacked by persons unknown. As the list of suspects who want them dead grows longer and his worries deepen, Maxwell prepares for an even more personal battle—how to keep from surrendering his heart to Brynmore.
Warning: Contains a broody Scotsman, a fiery-haired lass, and a night of passion that changes everything. Readers are encouraged to bring a fan.
On the eve of her wedding to a man she detests, Brynmore McCann can think of only one way to escape—by ruining herself—but the local lads leave her wholly uninspired. Just as she’s ready to accept her fate, she spots Maxwell Drake, home after nearly a decade. Even though he had loved her sister when they were young, Bryn has always considered him hers, and she can’t think of anyone she’d rather have bed her for the first time. Only she never intends for him to uncover her real name.
Upon returning home, Maxwell is stunned by the news that his father may have left him an inheritance. As the unacknowledged by-blow of a local nobleman, Maxwell struggles with resentment over the way he and his mother were treated by his father and the village. To add to his troubles, he discovers the lass he spent an incredibly satisfying night with was not the village whore, but the high-born sister of his first love. He insists Brynmore travel with him to Edinburgh until they determine if she is with child. Because if she is, she’ll marry him whether she wants to or not.
Along the road to Edinburgh, they are attacked by persons unknown. As the list of suspects who want them dead grows longer and his worries deepen, Maxwell prepares for an even more personal battle—how to keep from surrendering his heart to Brynmore.
Warning: Contains a broody Scotsman, a fiery-haired lass, and a night of passion that changes everything. Readers are encouraged to bring a fan.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2017
353 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Laura Trentham
43 books912 followersAuthor of smart, sexy Southern contemporary romance, Regency historicals, & heartfelt Women's Fiction
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 22, 2020
The beginning was so good. The kind that really holds your interest and endears the characters to you.
When Bryn said “the first bedding is on the house” and “Bootsie” I laughed aloud.
I liked that the hero was a man who felt. Sure, alpha-unfeeling heroes are cool too, but sometimes I need a switch. Maxwell was easy to like and relate to because of this. And I love injured heroes, ugh. Brynmore was a blend of strength and fragility, which isn’t often easy to achieve when writing. She was also easy to relate with. I did wish someone in the book had a Scottish brogue though -they all spoke like English people.
Really liked the adventure and during the first half, I just couldn’t wait for them to get out of Cragian. When they arrived at Edinburgh, it took a kind of “Regency-ish” turn that started losing me.
In the end, it was a decent read I believe will be loved by regency readers.
When Bryn said “the first bedding is on the house” and “Bootsie” I laughed aloud.
I liked that the hero was a man who felt. Sure, alpha-unfeeling heroes are cool too, but sometimes I need a switch. Maxwell was easy to like and relate to because of this. And I love injured heroes, ugh. Brynmore was a blend of strength and fragility, which isn’t often easy to achieve when writing. She was also easy to relate with. I did wish someone in the book had a Scottish brogue though -they all spoke like English people.
Really liked the adventure and during the first half, I just couldn’t wait for them to get out of Cragian. When they arrived at Edinburgh, it took a kind of “Regency-ish” turn that started losing me.
In the end, it was a decent read I believe will be loved by regency readers.
June 25, 2020
It started really well... kinda lost me towards the end but the beginning is great enough for me to recommend!
December 6, 2017
I'm an avid reader of Trentham's contemporary series but this is the first of her historicals I've read. (And it can easily stand on it's own so don't worry if this is your first too :) ) I found A Reckless Redemption to be a fun adventure. There's suspense and danger, love and sizzle, plus all the feels you could want. All of those wonderful things that make a good love story!
Bryn's somehow found herself in a whole mess of trouble and she's not sure why. Her step-sister is forcing her to marry (against her will) an abusive brute and Bryn's desperate to find a way out. How lucky for her an unrequited love from her childhood shows up at just the right time ... or maybe not because things get even more complicated.
Maxwell's life hasn't been easy. As a child he was treated horribly because he was the bastard son of a nobleman and only managed to survive due to kindness of others. After he left to join the military, there was war ... yeah, that's gonna leave some scars (inside and out). So while he's grown into a good man, he's got a lot of walls built up. Then he meets Bryn again and the poor man doesn't stand a chance.
I loved these two together. Maxwell tries to be all stern and standoffish but its really hard to hide that those walls are starting to crumble. All of his hardships have left him gun-shy but the man really needs someone to care for him. And no one on earth has a bigger heart that Bryn. She's forever taking care of others and it takes about two minutes for her to charm just about everyone she meets!
There's some shenanigans over the reason for the marriage and Maxwell's inheritance that lead them into all sorts of mischief and danger. Trentham makes sure it all wraps up nicely at the end but she does take you on quite the ride to get there.
While they may find themselves in a bit of trouble at the moment, if Bryn and Maxwell work together there is just about nothing that they can't overcome. As long as they are willing to take a chance with their hearts ... yeah, that leads to some troubles even more dangerous than the people trying to kill them! But you know they'll figure it out and manage to get a HEA before its all over.
*** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***
Bryn's somehow found herself in a whole mess of trouble and she's not sure why. Her step-sister is forcing her to marry (against her will) an abusive brute and Bryn's desperate to find a way out. How lucky for her an unrequited love from her childhood shows up at just the right time ... or maybe not because things get even more complicated.
Maxwell's life hasn't been easy. As a child he was treated horribly because he was the bastard son of a nobleman and only managed to survive due to kindness of others. After he left to join the military, there was war ... yeah, that's gonna leave some scars (inside and out). So while he's grown into a good man, he's got a lot of walls built up. Then he meets Bryn again and the poor man doesn't stand a chance.
I loved these two together. Maxwell tries to be all stern and standoffish but its really hard to hide that those walls are starting to crumble. All of his hardships have left him gun-shy but the man really needs someone to care for him. And no one on earth has a bigger heart that Bryn. She's forever taking care of others and it takes about two minutes for her to charm just about everyone she meets!
There's some shenanigans over the reason for the marriage and Maxwell's inheritance that lead them into all sorts of mischief and danger. Trentham makes sure it all wraps up nicely at the end but she does take you on quite the ride to get there.
While they may find themselves in a bit of trouble at the moment, if Bryn and Maxwell work together there is just about nothing that they can't overcome. As long as they are willing to take a chance with their hearts ... yeah, that leads to some troubles even more dangerous than the people trying to kill them! But you know they'll figure it out and manage to get a HEA before its all over.
*** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***
December 5, 2017
Without her consent, Brynmore McCann has been promised in marriage to a brute that makes vile promises to her. She doesn’t realise that there are manoeuvres afoot that make her a pawn in a much larger scheme, one where she hardly matters at all. Bryn will do anything in her power to avoid the marriage, to the extent of having herself ruined by a stranger. When the stranger she targets to take her most prized possession turns out to be the late Earl’s by-blow, someone she had always admired from afar, she considers herself lucky. However, the next morning when Maxwell Drake wakes up and finds the enchanting miss who spent the night in his bed has gone missing, her leaves no stone unturned to find out whom she is. The story takes the reader on an adventure, with Maxwell having to draw on all his training to keep Bryn safe in the face of danger at every turn. As the story evolves, the question of why her sister is so intent on her marrying the despicable Dugan Armstrong becomes more and more pertinent. When danger is at its peak, it is Bryn’s past that saves them and keeps her safe. A Reckless Redemption has a well written intricate plot, one that keeps the reader guessing to the end. As the story wound up, there were no loose ends and both Maxwell and Bryn get what they most need. Maxwell is a wounded warrior with a wounded soul, but he is a man of honour. Although Bryn pushes his patience to the limit he finds that he cannot take his frustration out on her, and always remains a gentleman. Brynmore on the other hand, has never stood up to her intimidating sister, but after escaping bullets and certain death, she finds that she has more backbone than she ever thought. This is a well written adventure romance, with a strong hero and a heroine who finds her destiny with him. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
February 7, 2021
He Suits Her💃💋 Purpose💕
ADULT Historical Scottish Regency Era Romance💕 with Murder💀 and Kidnapping.
Bryn's older sister and husband are determined to marry👰 her off to Dugan👺, a handsome but cruel man she detests.
Of course, she runs away to try to stop the wedding👰. She thinks if she ruins herself with another man, Dugan👺 won't want her.
At the local tavern she sees Maxwell🐺🍆⛲💪🔫🔪, a man she knew as a child. He's the by blow of a nobleman, and has been away at the war as a spy for years. At one time he was in 💘love with Bryn's sister, but she dumped him to marry an older wealthy nobleman. He doesn't recognize Bryn💃💋, which suits her purpose...
Meanwhile, Dugan👺 isn't giving up on his pursuit of Bryn💃💋. To what purpose? There must be more to This story!
This is a fun, and sweet ADULT Historical Romance with a moderate amount of angst.
ADULT Historical Scottish Regency Era Romance💕 with Murder💀 and Kidnapping.
Bryn's older sister and husband are determined to marry👰 her off to Dugan👺, a handsome but cruel man she detests.
Of course, she runs away to try to stop the wedding👰. She thinks if she ruins herself with another man, Dugan👺 won't want her.
At the local tavern she sees Maxwell🐺🍆⛲💪🔫🔪, a man she knew as a child. He's the by blow of a nobleman, and has been away at the war as a spy for years. At one time he was in 💘love with Bryn's sister, but she dumped him to marry an older wealthy nobleman. He doesn't recognize Bryn💃💋, which suits her purpose...
Meanwhile, Dugan👺 isn't giving up on his pursuit of Bryn💃💋. To what purpose? There must be more to This story!
This is a fun, and sweet ADULT Historical Romance with a moderate amount of angst.
March 3, 2021
Of the Spies and Lovers series, A Reckless Redemption is the worst.
No one likes a TSTL heroine even if she is kind and brave. Sneaking into a man's room/bed? Scaling walls? Traveling through dangerous cities alone, at night, AND IN BRITCHES?! Come on, Bryn. She nearly got Maxwell killed more times than I care to mention through her impetuous antics. The fact that he had to rescue her from the ruffians on the night-darkened streets of Edinburgh just really ticked me off. Or the fact that she left him in the bed to, again, gallivant through Edinburgh unattended because he didn't say the pretty love words she wanted to hear. I guess that's where the "Reckless" comes in.
Now lets talk about the hero, Maxwell. Brooding. Bland. That's about covers it. He was never tender towards Bryn. For the life of me, I couldn't figure out why she was in love with him. Even his untimely confession of love seemed rushed and exasperated. For at least half the book he was still blaming her for the dangers they faced. And rightly so, I might add. It was just in poor taste for this romance reader. I wanted sweet and intimate moments! I wanted huge grand gestures! I wanted a whirlwind romance that swept me off my feet, because that's what I had grown accustomed to in Laura Trentham novels. What I got was Maxwell Drake - lackluster extraordinaire. Even when he FINALLY realized that she was upset and left because he had not professed his love, he was like, "Ehh.. I'll give her a few days to let the dust settle before I go get her. I've got some things on my to-do list I need to take care of."
The best part of this book is Bryn recognizing the giant hulk, Black Crag, and having them attend the brothel party. It was something different that finally piqued my interest, but ultimately led to Maxwell killing a man and then getting shot in the arm. Again, one of Bryn's escapades causing Maxwell harm. He should have dropped her like a bad habit the moment she fell into his arms from her window! What they saw in each other is beyond my understanding.
No one likes a TSTL heroine even if she is kind and brave. Sneaking into a man's room/bed? Scaling walls? Traveling through dangerous cities alone, at night, AND IN BRITCHES?! Come on, Bryn. She nearly got Maxwell killed more times than I care to mention through her impetuous antics. The fact that he had to rescue her from the ruffians on the night-darkened streets of Edinburgh just really ticked me off. Or the fact that she left him in the bed to, again, gallivant through Edinburgh unattended because he didn't say the pretty love words she wanted to hear. I guess that's where the "Reckless" comes in.
Now lets talk about the hero, Maxwell. Brooding. Bland. That's about covers it. He was never tender towards Bryn. For the life of me, I couldn't figure out why she was in love with him. Even his untimely confession of love seemed rushed and exasperated. For at least half the book he was still blaming her for the dangers they faced. And rightly so, I might add. It was just in poor taste for this romance reader. I wanted sweet and intimate moments! I wanted huge grand gestures! I wanted a whirlwind romance that swept me off my feet, because that's what I had grown accustomed to in Laura Trentham novels. What I got was Maxwell Drake - lackluster extraordinaire. Even when he FINALLY realized that she was upset and left because he had not professed his love, he was like, "Ehh.. I'll give her a few days to let the dust settle before I go get her. I've got some things on my to-do list I need to take care of."
The best part of this book is Bryn recognizing the giant hulk, Black Crag, and having them attend the brothel party. It was something different that finally piqued my interest, but ultimately led to Maxwell killing a man and then getting shot in the arm. Again, one of Bryn's escapades causing Maxwell harm. He should have dropped her like a bad habit the moment she fell into his arms from her window! What they saw in each other is beyond my understanding.
December 5, 2017
Set your expectations about historical romance aside when you pick Reckless Redemption up, because this is NOT a stereotypical book for the genre!
Bryn is a young woman in rural Scotland, being forced into a marriage she doesn't want by her guardians (sister and brother-in-law). She tries to derail the marriage the only way she knows how which puts her in the path of Maxwell and one night changes both of their lives forever.
I loved these two and I especially loved them together! Bryn (thanks to her sister) has no idea that she's a lovely young woman with a heart of gold. Maxwell isn't must better. He does a good job of faking it, but is carrying plenty of his own emotional baggage.
It was truly a pleasure to watch these two try to behave as society expects when they were fighting their mutual attraction and also solving two mysteries. Ms. Trentham did an excellent job of balancing the intrigue elements of the story with the romantic elements. I also appreciated how she weaved Bryn and Maxwell's shared past into the story, especially since it highlighted just how special these two have been to each other without even realizing it.
This is a fast paced story with adventure and intrigue to go along with a strong heroine and dashing hero. It's definitely a story worth picking up if you are looking for something a little different in the historical romance department.
Bryn is a young woman in rural Scotland, being forced into a marriage she doesn't want by her guardians (sister and brother-in-law). She tries to derail the marriage the only way she knows how which puts her in the path of Maxwell and one night changes both of their lives forever.
I loved these two and I especially loved them together! Bryn (thanks to her sister) has no idea that she's a lovely young woman with a heart of gold. Maxwell isn't must better. He does a good job of faking it, but is carrying plenty of his own emotional baggage.
It was truly a pleasure to watch these two try to behave as society expects when they were fighting their mutual attraction and also solving two mysteries. Ms. Trentham did an excellent job of balancing the intrigue elements of the story with the romantic elements. I also appreciated how she weaved Bryn and Maxwell's shared past into the story, especially since it highlighted just how special these two have been to each other without even realizing it.
This is a fast paced story with adventure and intrigue to go along with a strong heroine and dashing hero. It's definitely a story worth picking up if you are looking for something a little different in the historical romance department.
December 22, 2017
Plotting to enrich their own coffers Bryn’s sister and her husband promise her hand in marriage to Dugan, a horrible man who takes delight in terrorizing her. She is desperate to escape this fate so she hatches a plot to find another man and ruin herself so that Dugan will no longer want to marry her.
As luck would have it, she encounters Maxwell, a man she has loved since she was a young girl. She pretends to be a prostitute and slips into his room at the inn. Maxwell has worked hard to overcome the stigma of his illegitimate birth. He has gained respect of many in the community where he grew up, but there are still those who look down on him because of the circumstances of his birth.
This story has a lot of twists and turns that keep the reader turning the pages to see what will happen next.
I definitely recommend Reckless Redemption to anyone who loves romance, suspense and a great story.
As luck would have it, she encounters Maxwell, a man she has loved since she was a young girl. She pretends to be a prostitute and slips into his room at the inn. Maxwell has worked hard to overcome the stigma of his illegitimate birth. He has gained respect of many in the community where he grew up, but there are still those who look down on him because of the circumstances of his birth.
This story has a lot of twists and turns that keep the reader turning the pages to see what will happen next.
I definitely recommend Reckless Redemption to anyone who loves romance, suspense and a great story.
October 20, 2018
Bryn decided that she would take matters into her own hands when she was to be forced to marry a man that she hated. What she did was set off a chain of events that changed everything for her and Maxwell. Maxwell was born a bastard and would not allow that to happen to a child of his. When Bryn slipped into his bed and he took her innocence, he decided he had to keep her with him until they know for sure that there isn't a baby. They were ambushed, shot at, delivered a baby and accosted by street gangs. Through it all, Bryn is tough as nails and charms everyone she meets. Maxwell had long ago encased his heart in ice, but Bryn seems to be thawing it out. Not knowing if the danger is coming from her family or his father's family, they try to get information to solve the riddle. In the end, will Maxwell be able to keep Bryn with him or will she want her freedom?
December 6, 2017
** I have received an Arc for a honest review!! **
Laura's book is the first book I have read in the Spies and Lovers series. I will check into the first and second.
To let me say I did enjoy this Historical Romance. I usually don't read this type of book but was different and I absolutely loved it! I have read Laura's other series and I really liked them as well.
I fully enjoyed to read about Brynmore McCann and Captain Maxwell Drake story.
Maxwell was in love with Brynmore's sister but Brymore always considered her as his and would love to get him into bed. Maxwell's father passes away and he thinks he might have some inheritance. What happens next is up to you to read.
Please one-click. You won't be disappointed!
Laura's book is the first book I have read in the Spies and Lovers series. I will check into the first and second.
To let me say I did enjoy this Historical Romance. I usually don't read this type of book but was different and I absolutely loved it! I have read Laura's other series and I really liked them as well.
I fully enjoyed to read about Brynmore McCann and Captain Maxwell Drake story.
Maxwell was in love with Brynmore's sister but Brymore always considered her as his and would love to get him into bed. Maxwell's father passes away and he thinks he might have some inheritance. What happens next is up to you to read.
Please one-click. You won't be disappointed!
December 6, 2017
I love Laura Trentham's new historical romance. I love her writing style and her characters. Brynmore McCann wants to ruin herself so she does not have to marry a man she dislikes. So she decides to sleep with Maxwell, but she never want him to know her name.Maxwell is stunned that his father left him an inheritance. Maxwell is not a legitimate child and has hard feelings with the local people. The lady he sleeted with is the sister of his first love. He wants Brynmore travel with him to Edinburgh to see if she is with child or not. I loved this book.
November 27, 2017
Loved it! I fell into the series a newbie, having not read the other 2, and Trentham provides not only a bashing good main storyline, but also enough of the back tales that even the unexposed can keep up. A tale full of society, matchmaking, rules of decorum (and how to get around them), spies, mystery, romance, and more. It is a quickly paced tale and an enjoyable one.
December 5, 2017
This is the first historical romance I have read and I loved it. Once I started it was hard to put down because I fell in love with both Bryn and Maxwell. I enjoyed watching Bryn grow and Maxwell tear down his walls. I can't wait to read book one and two.
February 13, 2018
Read this book after reading the second in the series which was great. I look forward to reading the first one!
August 25, 2023
Not as good as the one before. Too long with too many subplots.
Read
September 3, 2025This wasn't for me.
May 22, 2019
Perfection
This was my first Laura Trentham book and I sure am glad I purchased it. I could barely put it down. Aside from minor editing issues I can say that her writing and plot is seamless and spectacular. There was intrigue and evil plots and twists and turns but it complemented the romance instead of overshadowed it. There were emotional baggages but it did not translate to stubbornness and irrational behavior. Instead, the characters were molded and as a reader I appreciated how they developed, how they interacted and how they were portrayed by the author.
I love the main characters. And I love how the minor characters complemented and highlighted the romance. The hero carried the burden of illegitimacy. He was portrayed as a strong and noble person. And I for one am grateful that the author did not overemphasize how handsome and virile and strong the hero is. Some authors tend to sensationalize the handsomeness and virility of the hero of a book. This book has a hero who was not a rake, nor a rogue, nor a womanizing bachelor. The hero in this book is a man honed by his life experience and made something of himself and just overall became a self-made man. He has a hesitation to commit his heart due to his experience in life but it did not overrule his life decisions. The heroine is perfection even with her flaws (I honestly want to be her lol). She has a good heart and helps the underprivileged. She is selfless and resourceful and has inner strength. She has insecurities inflicted by her half sister. She has inner beauty and also physical beauty but once again the author did not focus on the physical traits. I love the history between the hero and heroine. She has loved him and watched over him since she was barely a teenager until he went off to become a soldier. They meet again after ten years.
The heroine was trying to find a way out of an arranged marriage by giving up her virginity. In the process, she compromises herself with the hero. They ended up traveling together and avoiding getting killed by the villains plotting against them because of greed. Their journey was adventurous. And their romance was simply breathtaking. They do have lovemaking scenes but despite being steamy it was not overly vulgar or graphic. I like how the conflicts and issues were resolved. It got all tied up together really well. The romance was the highlight and what a romantic journey it is. The epilogue was almost perfection. I say almost because I adore epilogues that are months or years into the future instead of just weeks. I like that even though this was part of the series it is a standalone. The heroes and heroines of the previous books did not make an appearance. Authenticity to the time period or language may not be the strength of this book but the romance was conveyed nonetheless. And that is what I purchased this book for, a love story.
This book was perfectly balanced. A light read and yet tugs at the emotions.
This was my first Laura Trentham book and I sure am glad I purchased it. I could barely put it down. Aside from minor editing issues I can say that her writing and plot is seamless and spectacular. There was intrigue and evil plots and twists and turns but it complemented the romance instead of overshadowed it. There were emotional baggages but it did not translate to stubbornness and irrational behavior. Instead, the characters were molded and as a reader I appreciated how they developed, how they interacted and how they were portrayed by the author.
I love the main characters. And I love how the minor characters complemented and highlighted the romance. The hero carried the burden of illegitimacy. He was portrayed as a strong and noble person. And I for one am grateful that the author did not overemphasize how handsome and virile and strong the hero is. Some authors tend to sensationalize the handsomeness and virility of the hero of a book. This book has a hero who was not a rake, nor a rogue, nor a womanizing bachelor. The hero in this book is a man honed by his life experience and made something of himself and just overall became a self-made man. He has a hesitation to commit his heart due to his experience in life but it did not overrule his life decisions. The heroine is perfection even with her flaws (I honestly want to be her lol). She has a good heart and helps the underprivileged. She is selfless and resourceful and has inner strength. She has insecurities inflicted by her half sister. She has inner beauty and also physical beauty but once again the author did not focus on the physical traits. I love the history between the hero and heroine. She has loved him and watched over him since she was barely a teenager until he went off to become a soldier. They meet again after ten years.
The heroine was trying to find a way out of an arranged marriage by giving up her virginity. In the process, she compromises herself with the hero. They ended up traveling together and avoiding getting killed by the villains plotting against them because of greed. Their journey was adventurous. And their romance was simply breathtaking. They do have lovemaking scenes but despite being steamy it was not overly vulgar or graphic. I like how the conflicts and issues were resolved. It got all tied up together really well. The romance was the highlight and what a romantic journey it is. The epilogue was almost perfection. I say almost because I adore epilogues that are months or years into the future instead of just weeks. I like that even though this was part of the series it is a standalone. The heroes and heroines of the previous books did not make an appearance. Authenticity to the time period or language may not be the strength of this book but the romance was conveyed nonetheless. And that is what I purchased this book for, a love story.
This book was perfectly balanced. A light read and yet tugs at the emotions.
October 29, 2022
Destiny travels many paths, but has only one final destination
Brynmore had lived for years under her half sister’s tyranny, but she would do anything to stop her from marrying her off to the depraved Dugan Armstrong. On the night she went to the local inn to find a man who would bed, and therefore ruin her, she found her destiny, in a man she had loved since she was twelve.
Maxwell Drake was a bastard, by birth. When he was a young man working for her father, he had fallen under her beautiful sister’s, Mary, spell. He had loved her, but Mary coveted power, social standing and wealth. She had toyed with Maxwell’s love, then tossed it aside for a much older wealthy lord.
After ten years in the military, Maxwell had returned to the small town of his birth. His intentions were to visit his mother’s grave and brush the dust, of the place of all his shame and pain, from his boots, never to return. Bryn, saw him, recognized him, chose him to take her maidenhead. Then, leaving him afterward to travel on his way. But destiny had other ideas. For Maxwell had lived the life of a bastard, while there was the possibility that the woman he had taken to his bed could be with child, he would marry her, making some sort of life together.
Bryn and Maxwell would face danger, dig up answers to long buried secrets and learn that destiny would not be cheated or turned away from her final destination for them.
I enjoyed this book that was more than a romantic adventure with it’s secrets, duplicity, jealousies and villains. There are also those who work towards making life better for some who have less. Hiding in the shadows, never taking credit for their good deeds, people who share their friendship and help without judgement. The are some spicy scenes between Bryn and Maxwell. However, there is one death scene between two characters that may disturb some readers. It can easily be pasted by turning a page. This is a romance that shimmers slowly, with a heroine that has a lot of spunk and heart; a strong hero with flaws and sometimes a bit clueless when handling the heroine but is a rollicking good read.
Brynmore had lived for years under her half sister’s tyranny, but she would do anything to stop her from marrying her off to the depraved Dugan Armstrong. On the night she went to the local inn to find a man who would bed, and therefore ruin her, she found her destiny, in a man she had loved since she was twelve.
Maxwell Drake was a bastard, by birth. When he was a young man working for her father, he had fallen under her beautiful sister’s, Mary, spell. He had loved her, but Mary coveted power, social standing and wealth. She had toyed with Maxwell’s love, then tossed it aside for a much older wealthy lord.
After ten years in the military, Maxwell had returned to the small town of his birth. His intentions were to visit his mother’s grave and brush the dust, of the place of all his shame and pain, from his boots, never to return. Bryn, saw him, recognized him, chose him to take her maidenhead. Then, leaving him afterward to travel on his way. But destiny had other ideas. For Maxwell had lived the life of a bastard, while there was the possibility that the woman he had taken to his bed could be with child, he would marry her, making some sort of life together.
Bryn and Maxwell would face danger, dig up answers to long buried secrets and learn that destiny would not be cheated or turned away from her final destination for them.
I enjoyed this book that was more than a romantic adventure with it’s secrets, duplicity, jealousies and villains. There are also those who work towards making life better for some who have less. Hiding in the shadows, never taking credit for their good deeds, people who share their friendship and help without judgement. The are some spicy scenes between Bryn and Maxwell. However, there is one death scene between two characters that may disturb some readers. It can easily be pasted by turning a page. This is a romance that shimmers slowly, with a heroine that has a lot of spunk and heart; a strong hero with flaws and sometimes a bit clueless when handling the heroine but is a rollicking good read.
September 19, 2021
While I still enjoy Laura Trentham's writing, this wasn't my favorite of the series so far. Compared with last book this novel lacked some connection for me.
Book 3 in the series features Maxwell Drake, whom we've met in the previous books, and Brynn McCann who has known Drake for years and secretly had a tendre for him. However, Maxwell had eyes for her older sister and upon being snubbed he left their hometown to make something of himself. They reunite when Maxwell returns home trying to see his sire's will and encounters Brynn who is trying to escape a marriage she isn't consenting to.
This book had more adventure than the last I'd say, but the romantic connection was missing for me. I was hoping for more from Maxwell in terms of his romance as he was a character I'd liked in the other books. I just didn't feel that he and Brynn were a good fit. I think the author tried to make her come off as compassionate and adventurous, but it felt more like she was childish and foolish and comparative with Max's gruff demeanor it didn't fit.
My favorite parts were when they were working with the older generation of spies where there was more action and adventure.
I'd still like to continue with the series, but right now this is my least favorite. Hopefully there's more 4 and 5 star books ahead.
Book 3 in the series features Maxwell Drake, whom we've met in the previous books, and Brynn McCann who has known Drake for years and secretly had a tendre for him. However, Maxwell had eyes for her older sister and upon being snubbed he left their hometown to make something of himself. They reunite when Maxwell returns home trying to see his sire's will and encounters Brynn who is trying to escape a marriage she isn't consenting to.
This book had more adventure than the last I'd say, but the romantic connection was missing for me. I was hoping for more from Maxwell in terms of his romance as he was a character I'd liked in the other books. I just didn't feel that he and Brynn were a good fit. I think the author tried to make her come off as compassionate and adventurous, but it felt more like she was childish and foolish and comparative with Max's gruff demeanor it didn't fit.
My favorite parts were when they were working with the older generation of spies where there was more action and adventure.
I'd still like to continue with the series, but right now this is my least favorite. Hopefully there's more 4 and 5 star books ahead.
February 4, 2021
This is my first time reading, and finishing, a historical romance. I’ve always been a firm believer that they just weren’t for me but after falling into the Bridgerton craze I knew I needed to try again. Low and behold, this book shows up in a sale email and since Laura Trentham is an author I trust and love, I knew that this was the book that I needed to read.
I’m so glad that I did!! I loved everything about this story.
The innocent but brave heroine, the moody hero, the tension and chemistry between them, the action, a touch of suspense and a just the right amount of humor made this a really great read!
I’m so glad that I did!! I loved everything about this story.
The innocent but brave heroine, the moody hero, the tension and chemistry between them, the action, a touch of suspense and a just the right amount of humor made this a really great read!
January 27, 2018
Third book in the series. Just as great as the first two books. I'm waiting for Simon's story if there is going to be one. Loved that the elders played a part in this one
Great story kept everyone guessing who was really after them. Would love to see more stories about them. Keep writing
Great story kept everyone guessing who was really after them. Would love to see more stories about them. Keep writing
February 8, 2021
Loved this book!!!
Two of my favorite genres Romance and intrigue rolled seamlessly into one. I was glued to the book from beginning to end. I loved the characters, they were so real. And the villains were so bad yet believable. Thank you Laura Grantham for a great story. I wanted more.
Two of my favorite genres Romance and intrigue rolled seamlessly into one. I was glued to the book from beginning to end. I loved the characters, they were so real. And the villains were so bad yet believable. Thank you Laura Grantham for a great story. I wanted more.
February 13, 2021
Another brilliant story
This is another brilliantly written story in an amazing series.The plot is one of emotional turmoil, with a bit of mystery. The characters are strong and portrayed with great determination to prevail over their fears and enemies. This is a steamy historical romance that will provide wonderful entertainment to anybody who loves this type of story.
This is another brilliantly written story in an amazing series.The plot is one of emotional turmoil, with a bit of mystery. The characters are strong and portrayed with great determination to prevail over their fears and enemies. This is a steamy historical romance that will provide wonderful entertainment to anybody who loves this type of story.
June 28, 2021
I really liked the first book in this series but this one just dragged. The plot felt so contrived and then seemingly just petered out into nothing. I would have liked to see either more commitment to the mystery/spying/action plot or the danger should have been scaled down, because as it played out I found it very unsatisfying.
January 23, 2022
Fabulous story
This story kept my attention and I loved the characters. This story of Bryn and her child hood crush Maxwell, has many twists and turns but you will love each word of it. I was on a cruise and couldn't to read it in my down time and finished it today we got back from the cruise thus morning. Great storyline, characters and author. Loved this strory.
This story kept my attention and I loved the characters. This story of Bryn and her child hood crush Maxwell, has many twists and turns but you will love each word of it. I was on a cruise and couldn't to read it in my down time and finished it today we got back from the cruise thus morning. Great storyline, characters and author. Loved this strory.
October 25, 2022
Something about the endings to these books that pushes it down a star for me. I also am not a fan of repeated endings (the ending to this is almost the same as the ending to the previous in spirit if not event). Shame as was really enjoying the book until 80% mark. Think I will leave the series with this one.
September 8, 2024
This was a decent read. For the first 3/4 of the book I was hooked. I liked the relationship between Bryn and Maxwell. The story had adventures and some mystery. However the last 1/4 was kinda boring. I also feel like it all cleaned itself up way too fast and easy. Like the author was over the story and just wanted it to end. For this reason I am giving it at 4/5. Spice was a 6/10.
April 24, 2021
The writing wasn't as good as previous books, so the characters didn't have the same depth of character as in previous books. The h was a overwrought, a bit too perfectly pathetic. The H was a little too casual, a bit sullen, and too willing to let her go. It was a good adventure.
February 13, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up. Seemed like a good story, but there were lots of things that didn't make sense. One example: sex a couple of days after a knife cut on his side that needed stitches. Some events seemed quite forced.
July 8, 2023
Outstanding Series
This maybe the best of the series. The very cleverly written story brings people and events together and finally full circle for the story. Lots of adventure and suspense balanced by a wonderful love story. Highly recommend.
This maybe the best of the series. The very cleverly written story brings people and events together and finally full circle for the story. Lots of adventure and suspense balanced by a wonderful love story. Highly recommend.
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