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Vanza #1
With This Ring
Leo Drake, the "Mad Monk of Monkcrest," is notoriously eccentric and unquestionably reclusive. But he is also a noted antiquities expert, which is why Beatrice Poole has demanded his reluctant assistance. The freethinking authoress of "horrid novels," Beatrice is searching for the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite, a mythic treasure she suspects played a role in her uncle's death. Beatrice finds Leo every bit as fascinating as one of the heroes in her novels-and she's convinced he's the only one who can help her. But after only five minutes in her company, Leo is sure he's never met a woman more infuriating...and more likely to rescue him from boredom. Yet the alliance may well prove to be the biggest mistake of their lives. For a villain lurks in London, waiting for the pair to unearth the Forbidden Rings-knowing that when they do, that day will be their last....
358 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
832 people are currently reading
2454 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Quick
93 books5,493 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
October 31, 2019
What a performance...
I absolutely LOVED listening to With This Ring. It has been yonky donks since I've read an Amanda Quick story and now I'm kicking myself that I've waited so long in between. Her characters are original, quirky and extremely lovable. The storyline is captivating and I'm drawn into the intrigue and mystery. The love story was set at a perfect pace without it being either insta or drawn out. I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish.
Everything about this historical romance left me satisfied but my favourite part was that the hero and heroine had been around the bush a time or two. No rakes or blushing debutantes in this one. Both the hero and heroine are widows (not the ruined for all eternity kind either, thank goodness) who are not especially looking for love. There's an attraction between them but neither are inclined to rush into acting on it.
This was one of the very best narrations I've ever listened to. Barbara Rosenblat brought every character to life. Her talents as a voice actor were proven almost immediately. Each character had it's own distinct voice and personality. If the story wasn't so good, I'd recommend it for the narration alone. Together, With This Ring would definitely be hard to beat.
If you're looking for an audiobook with an interesting storyline, plenty of intrigues and fantastic narration, I highly recommend giving With This Ring a try.
I absolutely LOVED listening to With This Ring. It has been yonky donks since I've read an Amanda Quick story and now I'm kicking myself that I've waited so long in between. Her characters are original, quirky and extremely lovable. The storyline is captivating and I'm drawn into the intrigue and mystery. The love story was set at a perfect pace without it being either insta or drawn out. I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish.
Everything about this historical romance left me satisfied but my favourite part was that the hero and heroine had been around the bush a time or two. No rakes or blushing debutantes in this one. Both the hero and heroine are widows (not the ruined for all eternity kind either, thank goodness) who are not especially looking for love. There's an attraction between them but neither are inclined to rush into acting on it.
This was one of the very best narrations I've ever listened to. Barbara Rosenblat brought every character to life. Her talents as a voice actor were proven almost immediately. Each character had it's own distinct voice and personality. If the story wasn't so good, I'd recommend it for the narration alone. Together, With This Ring would definitely be hard to beat.
If you're looking for an audiobook with an interesting storyline, plenty of intrigues and fantastic narration, I highly recommend giving With This Ring a try.
September 14, 2025
A good mix of mystery, suspense and romance makes With This Ring by Amanda Quick an entertaining read. 2.5 stars.
May 18, 2019
Quickie Review for With This Ring by Amanda Quick
Amanda Quick is the master of the universe. The first 13 pages of With This Ring are absolute perfection. Her writing never ceases to amaze me...she can nail an entire scene with a single word. Everything about this book is perfect...the storyline is tight, the characters are larger than life, the mystery engaging, the humor is spot on. Leo, the Mad Monk of Monkcrest, and Beatrice, secret author of "horrid novels," are a fantastic pairing. Honestly, I just cannot get enough of Amanda Quick's romances. Grade: A+
Penelope
**Just re-read it 5/17/19...I love this book so much! Amanda Quick writes the perfect romance for me. Adore!
Amanda Quick is the master of the universe. The first 13 pages of With This Ring are absolute perfection. Her writing never ceases to amaze me...she can nail an entire scene with a single word. Everything about this book is perfect...the storyline is tight, the characters are larger than life, the mystery engaging, the humor is spot on. Leo, the Mad Monk of Monkcrest, and Beatrice, secret author of "horrid novels," are a fantastic pairing. Honestly, I just cannot get enough of Amanda Quick's romances. Grade: A+
Penelope
**Just re-read it 5/17/19...I love this book so much! Amanda Quick writes the perfect romance for me. Adore!
October 29, 2022
I really enjoy an author that seems to be having as much fun writing a book as I do reading it!
November 14, 2020
.
Leo the 'Mad Monk' and Beatrice... er Mrs. York the salacious novelist.
I'm going to round this one up to 4 stars because I quite enjoyed it, but it wasn't amazing. Just another comfortable crime solving drama with humour and sex.
Beatrice's uncle dies under mysterious circumstances at a kinky brothel. All she knows is that just before he died he spent a fortune on an urban legend; Aphrodite's rings. But where are the rings?
So she travels into the wilds of England to ask a noted authority on the subject. But he REALLY doesn't like visitors.
The mystery is not so much about who the villains are but why they do the things they do ; )
Both the Mad Monk and Beatrice are strong characters. I love that about AQ's books. The h manages to hold her own in a man's world without coming across as a bitch.
There's just enough sexy times to spice it up but in this book it was a little extra spicy!
It helps that there's no virgins here and even though they were both married before, they weren't happily married. So I really felt like both MCs were on even footing all through the tale.
There's a wonderful little epilogue to round it out after the villains are defeated. And enough of a wind down so that nothing feels rushed about the romance.
Safety is good
Leo the 'Mad Monk' and Beatrice... er Mrs. York the salacious novelist.
I'm going to round this one up to 4 stars because I quite enjoyed it, but it wasn't amazing. Just another comfortable crime solving drama with humour and sex.
Beatrice's uncle dies under mysterious circumstances at a kinky brothel. All she knows is that just before he died he spent a fortune on an urban legend; Aphrodite's rings. But where are the rings?
So she travels into the wilds of England to ask a noted authority on the subject. But he REALLY doesn't like visitors.
The mystery is not so much about who the villains are but why they do the things they do ; )
Both the Mad Monk and Beatrice are strong characters. I love that about AQ's books. The h manages to hold her own in a man's world without coming across as a bitch.
There's just enough sexy times to spice it up but in this book it was a little extra spicy!
It helps that there's no virgins here and even though they were both married before, they weren't happily married. So I really felt like both MCs were on even footing all through the tale.
There's a wonderful little epilogue to round it out after the villains are defeated. And enough of a wind down so that nothing feels rushed about the romance.
Safety is good
July 8, 2015
I have always been amazed at how Ms. Amanda Quick manages to create a certain degree of mystery in her stories without making them too dark or maudlin, and With This Ring is definitely not an exception. The elements of a romance novel and a thriller are combined together in a perfectly balanced book, which is further augmented by its lovable hero and heroine. I enjoyed reading this and could not put it down.
I loved Beatrice and Leo. Both were headstrong and stubborn individuals, and from my experience in reading historical romance novels, that could only mean one of two things: it's either they're a perfect match, or they're just totally wrong for each other. There's no in-between for this type of pairing. Usually the main determining factor in the equation is the writer; it all boils down to how well the writer penned their story, and fortunately for Beatrice and Leo, Ms. Quick convinced me that they were made for each other. I loved the chemistry between the two, and the mature way they handled their blossoming relationship. The buildup was nice, as well.
I loved Beatrice and Leo. Both were headstrong and stubborn individuals, and from my experience in reading historical romance novels, that could only mean one of two things: it's either they're a perfect match, or they're just totally wrong for each other. There's no in-between for this type of pairing. Usually the main determining factor in the equation is the writer; it all boils down to how well the writer penned their story, and fortunately for Beatrice and Leo, Ms. Quick convinced me that they were made for each other. I loved the chemistry between the two, and the mature way they handled their blossoming relationship. The buildup was nice, as well.
May 18, 2018
This was a good mix of mystery and romance! I figured out who was behind the murder of Beatrice's uncle before the revealing but I still enjoyed this more then I thought!
I really liked both characters.
Leo Drake was eccentric and an enjoyable character to read.
I loved Beatrice being a secret, horror book writer and her love of mystery. She also did not put up with fools or Leo being domineering at times. I loved that about her character.
I've read many books by Amanda Quick over the years and they're usually hit and miss with me. This one was definitely a hit and hope to read more books of hers in the future!
I really liked both characters.
Leo Drake was eccentric and an enjoyable character to read.
I loved Beatrice being a secret, horror book writer and her love of mystery. She also did not put up with fools or Leo being domineering at times. I loved that about her character.
I've read many books by Amanda Quick over the years and they're usually hit and miss with me. This one was definitely a hit and hope to read more books of hers in the future!
October 27, 2022
4.5 stars. It has been a while since I’ve read anything by this author, but I do believe that this is one of AQ’s best.
Safe; no virgins, both widowed, neither had good marriages, hero has two grown sons. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating, no major OM/OW drama.
Safe; no virgins, both widowed, neither had good marriages, hero has two grown sons. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating, no major OM/OW drama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2024
When will GR ever update its star rating? This one is 3.5 stars. A typical Ms. Quick's novel. Sometimes, it's good to be on familiar ground. Nothing groundbreaking. A decent enough read.
April 23, 2018
Beatrice and Leo
Beatrice Poole's uncle Reggie, Lord Glassonby, has recently died. Beatrice feels it wasn't his heart which caused his death. She knows he was murdered because of the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite, a two hundred year old antiquity. Beatrice seeks out an expert in old legends and antiquities -- the Mad Monk of Monkcrest, Leo Drake. Leo feels the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite is a legend and not a physical antiquity. Beatrice is determined to find the rings and then sell them to reimburse her sister's dowry. Leo realizes Beatrice will search for the fabled rings on her own. He decides to join her in the hunt. Little do they know that someone else is searching for the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite, and she or he is willing to kill to obtain them.
Another romantic mystery by Amanda Quick. Ms. Quick's characters are well developed and flawed. The mystery plot is expertly developed and solved. The romance is developed over time and adventures. Though I figured out who the villain was halfway through the novel, I still wanted to see how the characters solved the mystery. This is a light-hearted read which would be perfect for a beach read.
Beatrice Poole's uncle Reggie, Lord Glassonby, has recently died. Beatrice feels it wasn't his heart which caused his death. She knows he was murdered because of the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite, a two hundred year old antiquity. Beatrice seeks out an expert in old legends and antiquities -- the Mad Monk of Monkcrest, Leo Drake. Leo feels the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite is a legend and not a physical antiquity. Beatrice is determined to find the rings and then sell them to reimburse her sister's dowry. Leo realizes Beatrice will search for the fabled rings on her own. He decides to join her in the hunt. Little do they know that someone else is searching for the Forbidden Rings of Aphrodite, and she or he is willing to kill to obtain them.
Another romantic mystery by Amanda Quick. Ms. Quick's characters are well developed and flawed. The mystery plot is expertly developed and solved. The romance is developed over time and adventures. Though I figured out who the villain was halfway through the novel, I still wanted to see how the characters solved the mystery. This is a light-hearted read which would be perfect for a beach read.
March 1, 2016
I've read worse by Amanda Quick, but I've also read better. The story featured a widow and a widower, rather than a virginal "original" and the two were older than her characters usually are (the book actually featured several jokes poking at their "advanced" ages). Otherwise, this one didn't break any molds. Beatrice was the usual headstrong, indomitable female, plunging headlong into wacky situations that Leo had to occasionally rescue her from and more frequently, yell at her for getting herself into -- in the usual way Quick's heroes do. There were a couple of references to the cringeworthy "Ancient Zamar" but thankfully that boringly plotted place didn't feature much in this book. Instead the mystery had to do with a statue and the key to the statue.
The villain of the piece wasn't hard to figure out but then, Quick's villains never are.
All in all, a fun read, but not necessarily one of my favorites by this incarnation of Jayne Ann Krentz. It also wasn't one I had too much trouble putting down.
The villain of the piece wasn't hard to figure out but then, Quick's villains never are.
All in all, a fun read, but not necessarily one of my favorites by this incarnation of Jayne Ann Krentz. It also wasn't one I had too much trouble putting down.
July 14, 2022
There are high reviews for this title, so I don't want to rain on its parade for those of you who like the blending of the mystery/romance genre, but for those of you who are wondering exactly what that is like, I'm here for you.
It starts out so well! I was totally into the mystery of the rings of Aphrodite (GIMMIE THOSE!), and I liked how assertive and no-nonsense the female protagonist is. Unfortunately, she sounds much more like an elder woman--like the protagonist in a Jessica Fletcher novel. This would be perfectly fine if she *were* that age; however, the juxtaposition of this being a (young?) woman being pursued by the stuffy older man seems--totally out of joint? It brought me out of the story altogether. Plus: I didn't give a rip about their romantic flutterings--I wanted to know about the rings!
So, while I'm all for old people getting their hormones up for fun times, the description of these particular characters getting it on was awkward and will have you reaching for the fast forward button. I so wish this book would have been more focused on the lore and myth of the missing object instead of the (non) mystery of what is in Monsieur's old pants. Yeah, yeah. We know; a tweed boner. How craptastic for them both.
I would be interested in reading more by this offer if she stuck to mysteries!
File Under: The Mystery of the Tweed Boner
p.s. The cover for this book on Audible was TOTALLY misleading--look at how cool that Monk looks? He is not that cool. The other covers for this novel are much more indicative of the in-dick-a-tive tension: a swirly font with a ring dangling from the letters. Like I said: I was not prepared for the mood shift.
It starts out so well! I was totally into the mystery of the rings of Aphrodite (GIMMIE THOSE!), and I liked how assertive and no-nonsense the female protagonist is. Unfortunately, she sounds much more like an elder woman--like the protagonist in a Jessica Fletcher novel. This would be perfectly fine if she *were* that age; however, the juxtaposition of this being a (young?) woman being pursued by the stuffy older man seems--totally out of joint? It brought me out of the story altogether. Plus: I didn't give a rip about their romantic flutterings--I wanted to know about the rings!
So, while I'm all for old people getting their hormones up for fun times, the description of these particular characters getting it on was awkward and will have you reaching for the fast forward button. I so wish this book would have been more focused on the lore and myth of the missing object instead of the (non) mystery of what is in Monsieur's old pants. Yeah, yeah. We know; a tweed boner. How craptastic for them both.
I would be interested in reading more by this offer if she stuck to mysteries!
File Under: The Mystery of the Tweed Boner
p.s. The cover for this book on Audible was TOTALLY misleading--look at how cool that Monk looks? He is not that cool. The other covers for this novel are much more indicative of the in-dick-a-tive tension: a swirly font with a ring dangling from the letters. Like I said: I was not prepared for the mood shift.
July 1, 2021
I really enjoyed the addition of mystery and treasure hunting in this one. Unfortunately, I wasn't always a big fan of the main lead she was a bit irritating and unnecessarily hard-headed (not uncommon in his rom. but nonetheless irritating). The male lead was also a bit dramatic at times.
April 14, 2018
Slightly ridiculous but highly enjoyable
April 14, 2016
With This Ring
4 Stars
Impoverished following the death of her husband, Beatrice Pool earns her living writing “Horrid" novels. When her uncle dies under suspicious circumstances, Beatrice approaches the notoriously anti-social Leo Drake, Earl of Monkcrest “The Mad Monk” for assistance, and soon finds herself immeshed in a plot not unlike one of her books.
Amanda Quick’s writing is somewhat formulaic but her stories never fail to entertain. The eccentric and enigmatic Leo has more than met his match in the intelligent and resilient Beatrice. She shocks him out of his loneliness and complacency while he teaches her to love and trust again. Their romance is sensual and relatively angst free, and their banter is witty and charming.
The mystery is interesting with some intense and suspenseful moments. Nevertheless, the villains are quite predictable right up until the end where there is a surprising twist.
All in all, a light and fun historical romance with engaging characters and an enjoyable plot. The 2nd book in the series focuses on different characters but I’m sure I will be no less entertained.
4 Stars
Impoverished following the death of her husband, Beatrice Pool earns her living writing “Horrid" novels. When her uncle dies under suspicious circumstances, Beatrice approaches the notoriously anti-social Leo Drake, Earl of Monkcrest “The Mad Monk” for assistance, and soon finds herself immeshed in a plot not unlike one of her books.
Amanda Quick’s writing is somewhat formulaic but her stories never fail to entertain. The eccentric and enigmatic Leo has more than met his match in the intelligent and resilient Beatrice. She shocks him out of his loneliness and complacency while he teaches her to love and trust again. Their romance is sensual and relatively angst free, and their banter is witty and charming.
The mystery is interesting with some intense and suspenseful moments. Nevertheless, the villains are quite predictable right up until the end where there is a surprising twist.
All in all, a light and fun historical romance with engaging characters and an enjoyable plot. The 2nd book in the series focuses on different characters but I’m sure I will be no less entertained.
April 14, 2020
A fun romance/mystery by a writer that I enjoy.
September 25, 2025
Books I Own. Mad About Series HRBC Challenge 2025. Tropes: Regency Romance, Romance Mystery, Mature Romance (h.29,H39). Widow/Widower.
MC's h. Beatrice Poole, 29, widow and author (mystery/romance/gothic). Parent's retired. Cousins. One mysteriously murdered after purchasing "The Forbidden Rings".
H. Leo Drake,Earl of Monkcrest, 39, aka Mad Monk of Monkcrest, 2 sons on the Grand tour, authority on antiquities and legends.
Another great romance/mystery novel by Amanda Quick written in the Regency period with MC's the author Mrs. York (Mrs. Poole) and the Earl of Monkcrest (Mad Monk), antiquities expert and renowned collector. Beatrice Poole's uncle L. Glassonby is dead (heart seizure) and the Eternal Rings missing, Beatrice engages L.Monkcrest's assistance in locating them. As they begin looking for clues they are followed, almost kidnapped, lured into a museum & trapped, Mr. Cox murdered, Clarissa almost murdered (helped them hide & spied on Sibson's antiquities shop) and finally confronted at gunpoint by all the thieves. In the end 4 people died in finding the lost "Forbidden Rings". Meanwhile Beatrice and Leo found moments of passion, ended up engaged by accident and produced a baby girl Elizabeth a year later.
The mystery took precedence over the romance in this book. The romance was woven into the story tucked in the corners and secret passage and locked doors. Both MC's were logical thinkers but people of action. Beatrice had a purpose to solve the mystery and find the rings and Leo wanted to protect her from harm and wanted the adventure. It was engaging and well written. I gave it 4 stars.
MC's h. Beatrice Poole, 29, widow and author (mystery/romance/gothic). Parent's retired. Cousins. One mysteriously murdered after purchasing "The Forbidden Rings".
H. Leo Drake,Earl of Monkcrest, 39, aka Mad Monk of Monkcrest, 2 sons on the Grand tour, authority on antiquities and legends.
Another great romance/mystery novel by Amanda Quick written in the Regency period with MC's the author Mrs. York (Mrs. Poole) and the Earl of Monkcrest (Mad Monk), antiquities expert and renowned collector. Beatrice Poole's uncle L. Glassonby is dead (heart seizure) and the Eternal Rings missing, Beatrice engages L.Monkcrest's assistance in locating them. As they begin looking for clues they are followed, almost kidnapped, lured into a museum & trapped, Mr. Cox murdered, Clarissa almost murdered (helped them hide & spied on Sibson's antiquities shop) and finally confronted at gunpoint by all the thieves. In the end 4 people died in finding the lost "Forbidden Rings". Meanwhile Beatrice and Leo found moments of passion, ended up engaged by accident and produced a baby girl Elizabeth a year later.
The mystery took precedence over the romance in this book. The romance was woven into the story tucked in the corners and secret passage and locked doors. Both MC's were logical thinkers but people of action. Beatrice had a purpose to solve the mystery and find the rings and Leo wanted to protect her from harm and wanted the adventure. It was engaging and well written. I gave it 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2024
Exciting, Regency, romantic suspense from 1998
Leo Drake, the Earl of Monkcrest, is 39 (a typical age for a JAK MMC). He married at 19 and is a widower with two sons, ages 19 and 17 (a marital and parental status I have never seen before for a JAK MMC in any of her novels, and I have read virtually every one of them). Leo's hobby is chasing down highwaymen who invade the territory of his country estate and the nearby village and highways. On his exciting forays, he carries two concealed pistols, dresses all in black, rides an enormous black stallion, and is accompanying by his huge wolfhound, Elf.
Beatrice Poole is 29 (a typical age for a Krentz FMC, who range between 26-29 in her historicals and 28-31 in her contemporaries). Beatrice wed at 21, was married for 3 years, and has been widowed for 5 years. She makes a comfortable living writing "horrid" novels under the pseudonym, Mrs Amelia York. She also runs a small charity school, through which she rescues prostitutes from the street by training them to become lady's maids or seamstresses, via the primary means of teaching them French. Female members of the aristocracy are fond of hiring Frenchwomen for those positions, and there aren't nearly enough actual Frenchwomen to meet the demand.
Beatrice has multiple relatives who are members of the aristocracy, but no one in her extended family had very much money until her Uncle Reggie, Lord Glassonby, recently received a moderate inheritance. He promised to give Beatrice's 19-year-old cousin, Arabella, a dowry. Unfortunately, he squandered virtually all of his inheritance purchasing a famous antiquity, the "forbidden rings of Aphrodite." Shortly afterwards, he died of a presumed heart attack in a bawdy house, and the rings were stolen. Beatrice wants Leo's help to find the rings, so she can sell them to provide a dowry to her cousin, of whom she is extremely fond. She also suspects that her uncle was actually murdered, and she would like to figure out who murdered her uncle, so they can be brought to justice.
Accompanied by one of the repurposed prostitutes as her temporary maid, the redoubtable Beatrice travels far into a remote region of England and knocks on the door of Leo's castle abode which, along with the current "dark and stormy night," feels like a scene out of one of her novels. Beatrice refuses to be intimidated by the Earl's sneering butler, who refuses her demand to see the Earl, and simply walks past him into Leo's home.
Leo has been feeling lonely and bored, after his two sons recently left for the continent on their grand tour, and he ignores the impertinence of his uninvited guest, because Beatrice intrigues him. After some witty back and forth between them, Leo agrees to become her investigation partner and states that, if the rings are found, he will buy them from her. Then he seals the deal with a passionate kiss. Beatrice is only frozen in shock for a moment before she responds to the devilishly attractive Earl's sensual overture with matching fervor. But immediately afterwards, she primly declares that they must avoid any future repeat of this behavior, because it would interfere with the two of them being appropriately focused on their quest.
This novel has a terrific Meet Cute, and Beatrice and Leo are highly sympathetic protagonists, both individually and as a couple. Their sensual chemistry is exciting, and I particularly enjoyed their witty repartee.
It is always the case in JAK's romantic-suspense novels that, in order to solve a central mystery, the FMC and MMC form what the FMC demands must be a co-equal partnership. During their exciting adventures, they encounter many different villains, ultimately defeat a Big Bad and, of course, fall madly in love. What makes each story special is the uniqueness of the romantic pairing and the nature of the mystery. In this particular story, both are quite engaging.
I obtained access to the audiobook version of this novel through Hoopla. It is narrated by the fabulous Barbara Rosenblat, who is my all-time favorite voice talent. Her performance tremendously enhanced my enjoyment of a novel that was already quite good.
Leo Drake, the Earl of Monkcrest, is 39 (a typical age for a JAK MMC). He married at 19 and is a widower with two sons, ages 19 and 17 (a marital and parental status I have never seen before for a JAK MMC in any of her novels, and I have read virtually every one of them). Leo's hobby is chasing down highwaymen who invade the territory of his country estate and the nearby village and highways. On his exciting forays, he carries two concealed pistols, dresses all in black, rides an enormous black stallion, and is accompanying by his huge wolfhound, Elf.
Beatrice Poole is 29 (a typical age for a Krentz FMC, who range between 26-29 in her historicals and 28-31 in her contemporaries). Beatrice wed at 21, was married for 3 years, and has been widowed for 5 years. She makes a comfortable living writing "horrid" novels under the pseudonym, Mrs Amelia York. She also runs a small charity school, through which she rescues prostitutes from the street by training them to become lady's maids or seamstresses, via the primary means of teaching them French. Female members of the aristocracy are fond of hiring Frenchwomen for those positions, and there aren't nearly enough actual Frenchwomen to meet the demand.
Beatrice has multiple relatives who are members of the aristocracy, but no one in her extended family had very much money until her Uncle Reggie, Lord Glassonby, recently received a moderate inheritance. He promised to give Beatrice's 19-year-old cousin, Arabella, a dowry. Unfortunately, he squandered virtually all of his inheritance purchasing a famous antiquity, the "forbidden rings of Aphrodite." Shortly afterwards, he died of a presumed heart attack in a bawdy house, and the rings were stolen. Beatrice wants Leo's help to find the rings, so she can sell them to provide a dowry to her cousin, of whom she is extremely fond. She also suspects that her uncle was actually murdered, and she would like to figure out who murdered her uncle, so they can be brought to justice.
Accompanied by one of the repurposed prostitutes as her temporary maid, the redoubtable Beatrice travels far into a remote region of England and knocks on the door of Leo's castle abode which, along with the current "dark and stormy night," feels like a scene out of one of her novels. Beatrice refuses to be intimidated by the Earl's sneering butler, who refuses her demand to see the Earl, and simply walks past him into Leo's home.
Leo has been feeling lonely and bored, after his two sons recently left for the continent on their grand tour, and he ignores the impertinence of his uninvited guest, because Beatrice intrigues him. After some witty back and forth between them, Leo agrees to become her investigation partner and states that, if the rings are found, he will buy them from her. Then he seals the deal with a passionate kiss. Beatrice is only frozen in shock for a moment before she responds to the devilishly attractive Earl's sensual overture with matching fervor. But immediately afterwards, she primly declares that they must avoid any future repeat of this behavior, because it would interfere with the two of them being appropriately focused on their quest.
This novel has a terrific Meet Cute, and Beatrice and Leo are highly sympathetic protagonists, both individually and as a couple. Their sensual chemistry is exciting, and I particularly enjoyed their witty repartee.
It is always the case in JAK's romantic-suspense novels that, in order to solve a central mystery, the FMC and MMC form what the FMC demands must be a co-equal partnership. During their exciting adventures, they encounter many different villains, ultimately defeat a Big Bad and, of course, fall madly in love. What makes each story special is the uniqueness of the romantic pairing and the nature of the mystery. In this particular story, both are quite engaging.
I obtained access to the audiobook version of this novel through Hoopla. It is narrated by the fabulous Barbara Rosenblat, who is my all-time favorite voice talent. Her performance tremendously enhanced my enjoyment of a novel that was already quite good.
October 26, 2011
Personally I don't consider With This Ring part of the Vanza series since the island of Vanzagara is only mentioned once as the origin of a plant Monkcrest posesses. Just saying.
I read this book after reading the more recent books by Amanda Quick and I felt as if things were a bit slow to get off the ground. Something about characters being stuck in the boondocks during a storm must have that effect on me. The story picked up once the characters started moving, though.
I liked reading about characters that are a little bit older; a widow (30) and a widower (40) get a second chance at love. If I had read this when it was first published in 1998, I don't think I would have been able to relate as easily or have enjoyed it as much as I did.
The Vanza linked books are I Thee Wed, Wicked Widow, and Lie by Moonlight.
I read this book after reading the more recent books by Amanda Quick and I felt as if things were a bit slow to get off the ground. Something about characters being stuck in the boondocks during a storm must have that effect on me. The story picked up once the characters started moving, though.
I liked reading about characters that are a little bit older; a widow (30) and a widower (40) get a second chance at love. If I had read this when it was first published in 1998, I don't think I would have been able to relate as easily or have enjoyed it as much as I did.
The Vanza linked books are I Thee Wed, Wicked Widow, and Lie by Moonlight.
November 16, 2021
Sheer perfection!
September 3, 2021
3 stelle e 1/2
Riprendo questa serie dopo un po' di tempo e devo dire che ho trovato questo primo capitolo della serie Vanza, in quanto ho letto prima il secondo volume, un po' al di sotto dell’altro volume ma non per questo con meno attrattive.
In questo inizio di serie l’attrattiva l’ho trovata principalmente nelle “interazioni” di Leo e Beatrice i due protagonisti che o trovato molto piacevoli anche se come ho scritto prima mancavano di incisività; ma la trama intrisa di mistero fa si che la storia non risulti noiosa.
In poche parole una lettura scorrevole e piacevole ma che poteva essere decisamente qualcosa di più.
Riprendo questa serie dopo un po' di tempo e devo dire che ho trovato questo primo capitolo della serie Vanza, in quanto ho letto prima il secondo volume, un po' al di sotto dell’altro volume ma non per questo con meno attrattive.
In questo inizio di serie l’attrattiva l’ho trovata principalmente nelle “interazioni” di Leo e Beatrice i due protagonisti che o trovato molto piacevoli anche se come ho scritto prima mancavano di incisività; ma la trama intrisa di mistero fa si che la storia non risulti noiosa.
In poche parole una lettura scorrevole e piacevole ma che poteva essere decisamente qualcosa di più.
May 4, 2025
Se ti fossi mai preso il disturbo di leggere uno dei miei romanzi, sapresti che le mie eroine adorano una buona leggenda.
Un romanzo che non esiterei a definire in perfetto stile Quick, romantico, avventuroso e cosparso da una vena d’ironia.
Beatrice si presenta senza invito al castello di Leo, detto il Monaco Folle, visto che discende da generazioni di nobili burberi, amanti della quieta solitudine, tra libri e manufatti antichi. Un parente di Beatrice potrebbe essere stato coinvolto in un brutto affare e si dà il caso che, poco prima di morire, abbia sperperato le fortune di famiglia e messo in concreto pericolo i destini delle donne di casa. L’unica possibilità è ritrovare il tesoro che ha causato un tale scompiglio, anche se la sua ricerca potrebbe produrre ulteriori rischi e inaspettati decessi.
Pur essendo determinata ad arrangiarsi, Bea ha bisogno dell’aiuto di Leo e lui, già vedovo e con figli grandi, stava cominciando ad annoiarsi, rinchiuso nel suo maniero, pieno di silenzio, ma anche di muffa. Come non farsi tentare?
Una bella coppia, con una lei intrepida e un lui sexy orso.
Aggiungete un’indagine rocambolesca e divertente, tra musei, pozioni contro l’impotenza, bordelli dove le dominatrici frustano i loro clienti, balli e corteggiamenti con cugine da far sposare.
E ho detto che Beatrice scrive romanzi gotici dove le sue eroine vincono sempre?
Un romanzo che non esiterei a definire in perfetto stile Quick, romantico, avventuroso e cosparso da una vena d’ironia.
Beatrice si presenta senza invito al castello di Leo, detto il Monaco Folle, visto che discende da generazioni di nobili burberi, amanti della quieta solitudine, tra libri e manufatti antichi. Un parente di Beatrice potrebbe essere stato coinvolto in un brutto affare e si dà il caso che, poco prima di morire, abbia sperperato le fortune di famiglia e messo in concreto pericolo i destini delle donne di casa. L’unica possibilità è ritrovare il tesoro che ha causato un tale scompiglio, anche se la sua ricerca potrebbe produrre ulteriori rischi e inaspettati decessi.
Pur essendo determinata ad arrangiarsi, Bea ha bisogno dell’aiuto di Leo e lui, già vedovo e con figli grandi, stava cominciando ad annoiarsi, rinchiuso nel suo maniero, pieno di silenzio, ma anche di muffa. Come non farsi tentare?
Una bella coppia, con una lei intrepida e un lui sexy orso.
Aggiungete un’indagine rocambolesca e divertente, tra musei, pozioni contro l’impotenza, bordelli dove le dominatrici frustano i loro clienti, balli e corteggiamenti con cugine da far sposare.
E ho detto che Beatrice scrive romanzi gotici dove le sue eroine vincono sempre?
June 9, 2021
This has always been one of my favorite AQ novels.
August 22, 2022
3.5 stars With This Ring is formulaic fun, in that light-gothic romantic-suspense subgenre that Amanda Quick does so well. To save her family’s finances, Beatrice needs to find the legendary relics on which her uncle spent his fortune. She consults Leo, who is known for his interest in legends and artifacts. He promptly tries to take over her investigation; determined and independent, Beatrice is in no wise prepared to let him do so. The ensuing partnership is half cooperative, half confrontational, though not in an antagonistic way, and it was amusing to watch them each try to assert control.
Both hero and heroine are mature (Leo is about 40 and and Beatrice is 30), giving them each more confidence and worldliness than a younger character might have. Both are widowed, and have vowed not to marry again; you can guess how that particular resolution will end! There are the usual physical sparks, but it’s not until there are no more secrets between them that Leo and Beatrice can admit their feelings for each other go deeper than a simple affair.
Since this is Amanda Quick (aka Jayne Ann Krentz), the plot is convoluted, with several twists and turns that are meant to be unexpected. I’ve read enough of her work by now that I saw a lot of them coming, which is one reason I’m giving With This Ring 3.5 stars instead of 4. Still, I enjoyed the book for what it is: light escape reading with a healthy dose of romance and a soupçon of suspense.
Review originally published on The Bookwyrm's Hoardin 2018.
Both hero and heroine are mature (Leo is about 40 and and Beatrice is 30), giving them each more confidence and worldliness than a younger character might have. Both are widowed, and have vowed not to marry again; you can guess how that particular resolution will end! There are the usual physical sparks, but it’s not until there are no more secrets between them that Leo and Beatrice can admit their feelings for each other go deeper than a simple affair.
Since this is Amanda Quick (aka Jayne Ann Krentz), the plot is convoluted, with several twists and turns that are meant to be unexpected. I’ve read enough of her work by now that I saw a lot of them coming, which is one reason I’m giving With This Ring 3.5 stars instead of 4. Still, I enjoyed the book for what it is: light escape reading with a healthy dose of romance and a soupçon of suspense.
Review originally published on The Bookwyrm's Hoardin 2018.
January 31, 2016
I liked this book quite a bit. The main characters were likeable and engaging. The heroine, Beatrice, was strong and capable without being bossy and annoying and the hero was supportive and take-charge without being an overbearing brute. The romantic tension built realistically throughout the book so that when they finally did sleep together, it made sense (although the choice of where was a bit unconventional).
The mystery plot was well done too, although there were some decisions that seemed done for plot convenience rather than logic. For example,
The mystery plot was well done too, although there were some decisions that seemed done for plot convenience rather than logic. For example,
December 27, 2023
I'm been exploring Amanda Quick's canon lately. This one is very good! The male lead is a sexy badass antiquarian whose best friend is a dog. The female lead is a Gothic novelist who also helps manage a school for preparing sex workers for an alternative trade. Both leads have been married before, and are older (29 and 39) than many romance leads.
WITH THIS RING has a mystery, a touch of the supernatural, and a lot of foggy, atmospheric, gaslit suspense. It also has a good deal of humor and some banter between strong-willed leads who have to learn to work together. I recommend it, especially if you like geeky-but-deadly male leads.
In addition to open door sex scenes, the book contains multiple murders and other deaths by violence, some of them on page.
WITH THIS RING has a mystery, a touch of the supernatural, and a lot of foggy, atmospheric, gaslit suspense. It also has a good deal of humor and some banter between strong-willed leads who have to learn to work together. I recommend it, especially if you like geeky-but-deadly male leads.
In addition to open door sex scenes, the book contains multiple murders and other deaths by violence, some of them on page.
February 11, 2018
An enjoyable audiobook, with a plot combining romance, adventure, and mystery. Barbara Rosenblatt is not my favorite narrator, primarily because she goes in for too many long pauses.
June 17, 2012
Leo Drake and Beatrice Poole form an interesting alliance to find a lost ring, which leads them into a murder mystery. And of course, there is some hot sex and romance along the way.
I want to go back in time so I can have carriage sex...
This is Amanda Quick at her best.
I loved the banter between Leo and Beatrice as they spar off each other.
Ms. Quick creates such interesting male characters--alpha, and sexy-hot.
Her female leads are always intelligent, strong, and daring.
They always give the guy in thier lives more than he bargained for.
My favorite line in the book, "Hells teeth, I want to seduce her."
This book has romance, intrigue, sex, great dialog and a fast moving plot.
Amanda Quick, I salute you.
Just writing this makes me want to read it again...
I want to go back in time so I can have carriage sex...
This is Amanda Quick at her best.
I loved the banter between Leo and Beatrice as they spar off each other.
Ms. Quick creates such interesting male characters--alpha, and sexy-hot.
Her female leads are always intelligent, strong, and daring.
They always give the guy in thier lives more than he bargained for.
My favorite line in the book, "Hells teeth, I want to seduce her."
This book has romance, intrigue, sex, great dialog and a fast moving plot.
Amanda Quick, I salute you.
Just writing this makes me want to read it again...
March 26, 2016
As per usual, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Whenever I haven't a clue what to read next but want something I know I am going to enjoy I always pick up either an Amanda Quick, J D Robb or (early) Julia Garwood. Guaranteed satisfaction
Re-read July/10
Re-read July/10
August 30, 2016
I liked the romance and the mystery kept me going. However, what was with the paranormal feelings of the heroine? She had a sixth sense about old items. Not what I look for with my historical romance.
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