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The Restitution League #1
Rejecting the Rogue
Thieves make the best rogues. And the worst heartbreakers.
Philomena Sweet, Victorian London's finest safecracker, knows it better than most. The worst rogue of them all, dashing jewel thief Spencer Crane, smashed hers long ago. And now he's back, fleeing danger from their past. Danger he won't survive without her help.
She'd love to refuse. She'd kill to stab him with her parasol. But she can't leave him for dead.
Spencer Crane would sooner steal costume jewelry than ask talented, wickedly bright Meena Sweet for help. He's well aware she'd rather dice him into small pieces. He might even deserve it. But revenge stalks them both. He needs her artistry. She needs his skills.
Neither needs the desire that sparks to life between them.
While they dodge criminals, carriages, and the occasional flying cabbage, who will protect these two notorious thieves from each other?
—Meet The Restitution League—
Thieves, rogues, and well-armed adventuresses, the crew of the Restitution League fights injustice while wrestling with love and desire—and the occasional throwing knife—one romance at a time.
And there's tea.
Philomena Sweet, Victorian London's finest safecracker, knows it better than most. The worst rogue of them all, dashing jewel thief Spencer Crane, smashed hers long ago. And now he's back, fleeing danger from their past. Danger he won't survive without her help.
She'd love to refuse. She'd kill to stab him with her parasol. But she can't leave him for dead.
Spencer Crane would sooner steal costume jewelry than ask talented, wickedly bright Meena Sweet for help. He's well aware she'd rather dice him into small pieces. He might even deserve it. But revenge stalks them both. He needs her artistry. She needs his skills.
Neither needs the desire that sparks to life between them.
While they dodge criminals, carriages, and the occasional flying cabbage, who will protect these two notorious thieves from each other?
—Meet The Restitution League—
Thieves, rogues, and well-armed adventuresses, the crew of the Restitution League fights injustice while wrestling with love and desire—and the occasional throwing knife—one romance at a time.
And there's tea.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2017
475 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
March 17, 2019
This was a great story and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!
October 29, 2019
This started out so well for me. Then we meet the putative hero.
Hmm... he was weak. he was selfish, not especially smart and had little or no moral compass. The heroine had it all over him. what she saw in him apart from a strong sexual attraction was anybody's guess.
The book was too long for me. There was way too much detail, and events kept repeating themselves, as the characters consistently stuffed up their attempts to fix their problems. Each time that happened, I was like
The hero, Spencer, was a thief and a womaniser. the heroine, Meena, was a bit unbelievable. She had been a thief, as had her cousins, forced to steal for her father who ran a thieving gang. After he died, they"reformed", and stole from the rich to support worthy causes. They felt that in this way they were atoning for their sins. Because that makes stealing right. Ever heard of investing/starting business/ doing a decent day's work, kids? Not all rich people are evil and deserve to be robbed, either.
Spencer came across as vacillating, indecisive and shallow. Although he was supposed to undergo a massive change in personality during the course of this (long) book, I remained unconvinced of his new persona. I think Meena would remain the driving force in that relationship.
Also, I found the sex scenes uninspiring. All the mechanics were described but I was missing the spark. Perhaps because they had been lovers before? Perhaps because Meena was the boss, really, and Spencer had no alpha qualities? That's probably my personal preference colouring my impressions, so if you are not as fussy as I am, you will probably find those scenes fine.
Warning: if you are in the Safety Gang-
Hmm... he was weak. he was selfish, not especially smart and had little or no moral compass. The heroine had it all over him. what she saw in him apart from a strong sexual attraction was anybody's guess.
The book was too long for me. There was way too much detail, and events kept repeating themselves, as the characters consistently stuffed up their attempts to fix their problems. Each time that happened, I was like
The hero, Spencer, was a thief and a womaniser. the heroine, Meena, was a bit unbelievable. She had been a thief, as had her cousins, forced to steal for her father who ran a thieving gang. After he died, they"reformed", and stole from the rich to support worthy causes. They felt that in this way they were atoning for their sins. Because that makes stealing right. Ever heard of investing/starting business/ doing a decent day's work, kids? Not all rich people are evil and deserve to be robbed, either.
Spencer came across as vacillating, indecisive and shallow. Although he was supposed to undergo a massive change in personality during the course of this (long) book, I remained unconvinced of his new persona. I think Meena would remain the driving force in that relationship.
Also, I found the sex scenes uninspiring. All the mechanics were described but I was missing the spark. Perhaps because they had been lovers before? Perhaps because Meena was the boss, really, and Spencer had no alpha qualities? That's probably my personal preference colouring my impressions, so if you are not as fussy as I am, you will probably find those scenes fine.
Warning: if you are in the Safety Gang-
November 17, 2018
Reviewed @ Thoughts By Tash
Review copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for a honest review
It’s hard to describe this well put together historical romance. It has a bit of everything and whilst the basis of this book is a second chance romance. There is much more to this story then another romance and in the process of this story, the romance becomes part of the natural course . As it hard to deny that feelings and chemistry has gone away.
Specially when it’s the person who you loved is being threatened and danger is lurking at every corner. This is a romping historical romance of a difference. Involving a more seedy side to England, this book jumps from side to side with easy without a second glance. Painting a world that not many can exist in and what makes the league and it’s members unique. Cole’s charming story has everything you expect both of a historical novel and a suspense novel. There is no clear boundaries and the ideas seem endless.
It’s an adventure that keeps you hooked to the dying pages with it’s twist and turns. It never gets dull this adventure and the stakes are high so don’t expect any less. Plus all the characters are not your typical society members. They are in a class of their own with stories that tread into grey territories with their anti-heroes tendencies. Yet they are lovable and redeemable with their determination to help the wrong be righted. However expect the unexpected to be the norm here, as it is inbreeded into these characters and they haven’t lost their charms or their way in the process.
It’s a charming novel not because of the story but the characters, it’s obvious that a reformed thief/rogue Spencer maybe , he was the right hero for Meena. She had a lot riding on her shoulders and she was trying to fix a past she rather forget. Their romance was no easy path and whilst it took it time to come to it’s satisfying point that it is . Meena and Spencer both showed what characters they are with their talents and skills. Rejecting the Rogue is daring historical romance that full of wonders and temptations that is begging to be explored
For more of my reviews, visit Thoughts by Tash.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Review copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for a honest review
It’s hard to describe this well put together historical romance. It has a bit of everything and whilst the basis of this book is a second chance romance. There is much more to this story then another romance and in the process of this story, the romance becomes part of the natural course . As it hard to deny that feelings and chemistry has gone away.
Specially when it’s the person who you loved is being threatened and danger is lurking at every corner. This is a romping historical romance of a difference. Involving a more seedy side to England, this book jumps from side to side with easy without a second glance. Painting a world that not many can exist in and what makes the league and it’s members unique. Cole’s charming story has everything you expect both of a historical novel and a suspense novel. There is no clear boundaries and the ideas seem endless.
It’s an adventure that keeps you hooked to the dying pages with it’s twist and turns. It never gets dull this adventure and the stakes are high so don’t expect any less. Plus all the characters are not your typical society members. They are in a class of their own with stories that tread into grey territories with their anti-heroes tendencies. Yet they are lovable and redeemable with their determination to help the wrong be righted. However expect the unexpected to be the norm here, as it is inbreeded into these characters and they haven’t lost their charms or their way in the process.
It’s a charming novel not because of the story but the characters, it’s obvious that a reformed thief/rogue Spencer maybe , he was the right hero for Meena. She had a lot riding on her shoulders and she was trying to fix a past she rather forget. Their romance was no easy path and whilst it took it time to come to it’s satisfying point that it is . Meena and Spencer both showed what characters they are with their talents and skills. Rejecting the Rogue is daring historical romance that full of wonders and temptations that is begging to be explored
For more of my reviews, visit Thoughts by Tash.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
December 16, 2017
I went into this story inflated with the anxiety and anticipation of unearthing what unforgivable sin the hero had perpetrated against the heroine all those years gone by.I had my suspicions though it took some reading to confirm it.I unfortunately became somewhat deflated upon the manner in which this heinous crime was unfolded.
I would have liked the hero's explanation to have been more believable than just fear and the heroine not to have been so accepting of blame though forgiveness was rightly the only acceptable outcome in this instance considering the amount of time that had elapsed since the fallout.And as we all know time that does blunt all wounds
So other than my own personal peeve,this historical romance is a fine start to what promises to be a great series.
I would have liked the hero's explanation to have been more believable than just fear and the heroine not to have been so accepting of blame though forgiveness was rightly the only acceptable outcome in this instance considering the amount of time that had elapsed since the fallout.And as we all know time that does blunt all wounds
So other than my own personal peeve,this historical romance is a fine start to what promises to be a great series.
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December 4, 2017
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. Philomena (Meena) and Spencer Crane have a previous history from several years ago. They are brought back together through outside factors. Both of them are accomplished thieves and need to work together to defeat a common enemy. Can they manage to put their past behind them? The secondary characters of Meena’s cousins, Edison and Briar were an intriguing addition and I hope to read more of them in the series. There is danger, times when I was on the edge of my seat and of course, romance. Can a rogue change his outlook for the right woman? It was also an exciting time for new inventions and Edison is out to prove their worth. Altogether an excellent read. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it.
January 4, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. Philomena (Meena) and Spencer Crane have a previous history several years ago, highly entertaining story with a second chance at love.
The story is full of action, adventure, suspense,humour,intrigue not a moment u feel bored...it is so entertaining dat it grabs u till d end... it is fast paced & very well scripted... the plot is so captivating dat u r on d go since d 1st page ...The side characters r also so well placed r quite unique ... every character plays a important role in d book... The author's ability to make every character in d book other den d main protoganists is applaudable... Riley's grasp on her story is outstanding ...she has maintained d pace & flow of story in d book...
Meena and Spencer get seperated due to Circumstances, misunderstanding and fear for many years. wen dey come together again sparks fly & dey ve a 2nd chance at love... wat nicked my interest was d unsual concept of A female safe cracker and a rouge of a jewel thief...
I loved Riley"s portrayal of strong women in d victorian era... quite unconventional in a orthodox time where women didnt ve any say & importance ...a very unsual & unique storiline indeed !!!!
REJECTING THE ROGUE is the first book of her Restitution League series and I cannot wait to read the next title.she has become one of my favourite authors in d Histotiral romance genre...though it is my 1st book written by Riley i m really bowled over & very impressed by her writing ...Kuddos to u Riley ...keep up d good work ...
*I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review
The story is full of action, adventure, suspense,humour,intrigue not a moment u feel bored...it is so entertaining dat it grabs u till d end... it is fast paced & very well scripted... the plot is so captivating dat u r on d go since d 1st page ...The side characters r also so well placed r quite unique ... every character plays a important role in d book... The author's ability to make every character in d book other den d main protoganists is applaudable... Riley's grasp on her story is outstanding ...she has maintained d pace & flow of story in d book...
Meena and Spencer get seperated due to Circumstances, misunderstanding and fear for many years. wen dey come together again sparks fly & dey ve a 2nd chance at love... wat nicked my interest was d unsual concept of A female safe cracker and a rouge of a jewel thief...
I loved Riley"s portrayal of strong women in d victorian era... quite unconventional in a orthodox time where women didnt ve any say & importance ...a very unsual & unique storiline indeed !!!!
REJECTING THE ROGUE is the first book of her Restitution League series and I cannot wait to read the next title.she has become one of my favourite authors in d Histotiral romance genre...though it is my 1st book written by Riley i m really bowled over & very impressed by her writing ...Kuddos to u Riley ...keep up d good work ...
*I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review
January 5, 2018
A female safe cracker and a rouge of a jewel thief! What could be more entertaining? Not much I'd say!. The Restitution League is brilliant combination of well trained thieves, all trained for different jobs but with a different twist. Formed by Philomeena Sweet's father, Meena, her two cousins and Spencer were trained to steal for him using a lot of ingenuous weapons and techniques. Now they are more about righting wrongs and doing good. Full of adventure, suspense, really bad people and unique situations I was thoroughly entertained!, Meena and Spencer had a past and he had gone on his own and left her with a broken heart. Hoping to never see him again, Meena of course runs into him on their current venture and they end up together again, needing each others help. The idea of this series and the wonderful characters are brought alive by the author. The dialogue and descriptions make you feel you are there with them. I cannot wait until the next installment of the Restitution League and I highly recommend you read this book! Well done!
January 25, 2018
A fantastic story, full of surprises and funny.
The story is well written, deep with strong and surprising characters.
It will kept captive until the last page!
I recommend this book to all that love historical romance with strong women. You will love it!
I received this book as gift and this is my voluntary and honest review.
The story is well written, deep with strong and surprising characters.
It will kept captive until the last page!
I recommend this book to all that love historical romance with strong women. You will love it!
I received this book as gift and this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 30, 2019
Stealing His Heart💖
Adult HistoricalThriller and Romance
England 1881
Meena💃 and her cousin, Edison, are involved in a life of theft, her specialty is opening safes. Lord Crane🐺🍆🌋, Her former fiance is also involved in thefts, mainly because he is being blackmailed. They meet again after some years at a ball given by a Lord Blackborough to show off his Egyptian artifacts.
Meena💃 is there to retrieve a stolen journal from the Lord's safe, an incriminating journal. Lord Crane🐺🍆🌋 is there to get the same journal, when they meet again.
Crane🐺🍆🌋 is a serious rake, which was what caused the breakup in the first place, yet he finally realized what he lost when Meena💃💔 caught him in bed with another woman. OOPS!
Meena💃💋 realizes she still has feelings for Lord Crane🐺🍆🌋, even though he is a baaaad, naaasssty man!
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
The book was $3.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
This review is solely my own opinion.
I liked The book, it's very different than most of the historical romances I've read. The book is well written and flowed well. I was never confused about what was happening, or about characters. Recommend for those who Love The Adult historical romance genre.
Adult HistoricalThriller and Romance
England 1881
Meena💃 and her cousin, Edison, are involved in a life of theft, her specialty is opening safes. Lord Crane🐺🍆🌋, Her former fiance is also involved in thefts, mainly because he is being blackmailed. They meet again after some years at a ball given by a Lord Blackborough to show off his Egyptian artifacts.
Meena💃 is there to retrieve a stolen journal from the Lord's safe, an incriminating journal. Lord Crane🐺🍆🌋 is there to get the same journal, when they meet again.
Crane🐺🍆🌋 is a serious rake, which was what caused the breakup in the first place, yet he finally realized what he lost when Meena💃💔 caught him in bed with another woman. OOPS!
Meena💃💋 realizes she still has feelings for Lord Crane🐺🍆🌋, even though he is a baaaad, naaasssty man!
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
The book was $3.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
This review is solely my own opinion.
I liked The book, it's very different than most of the historical romances I've read. The book is well written and flowed well. I was never confused about what was happening, or about characters. Recommend for those who Love The Adult historical romance genre.
November 17, 2018
Meena, aka Philomena Sweet, is the best safecracker in all of London. When a man comes to her, desperate to retrieve the journal with all of his secrets, she knows that she will be able to pull it off. Little does she know that her old flame Spencer will get in the way of her perfect heist. She wants to help him get an old enemy off his back, but she might be betraying her client in the process. Not to mention the fact that every time he looks at her or touches her, sparks fly up and down her spine. Will she and Spencer be able to escape from Ramsay, and will they be able to escape from each other?
I love Victorian historical fiction novels, as they like to mix a bit of modern in with the history. Meena is definitely a modern character. Having the rather unusual upbringing that she did, she never fit the proper society description of a woman. She was too headstrong, and her line of work wasn't exactly ladylike. She keeps convincing herself that she wants a normal yet interesting husband, but she isn't normal enough to even know where to find those. Then, Spencer waltzes back into her life at the wrong time and sets her world on fire. How is she supposed to focus when he keeps turning up around her?
Spencer had forced himself to forget about Meena. Even though they had a relationship in the past, the past was the past. He was trying to be a good man, less of a thief. Then, Ramsay comes back into his life, threatening all he has. What is he supposed to do, fight him off? Ramsay has all of London wrapped around his finger. So he does what he knows best, his job. Then Meena comes back into his life, and he starts to see light again. All they have to do is defeat Ramsay, and they might just get the happy ending that they wanted.
These characters were some of the most unique that I had seen in a Victorian historical fiction novel, so I was definitely impressed. No rich girls born into money were written here! This was also a historical fiction novel of considerable length, which I appreciated even more. I hate nothing more than to read an extra short book and feel like saying "That's it?" when I get to the end. None of that here! Even the e-version was long enough to feel satisfying.
Nevertheless, the length of this book had nothing to do with the pace the story moved at. There wasn't a dull moment with these characters, I just felt myself flying through the story with ease. I only wish that there was a prequel to this little series so I could get to know the lives (and possibly the previous relationships) of Meena and Spencer before the events of this novel occurred.
I did not notice any grammar or formatting errors as I read the advance version of this novel. It fit very nicely on my large Kindle tablet and had none of those weird text wrapping issues that some ebooks have.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a new romantic mystery historical fiction novel set in the Victorian era.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
I love Victorian historical fiction novels, as they like to mix a bit of modern in with the history. Meena is definitely a modern character. Having the rather unusual upbringing that she did, she never fit the proper society description of a woman. She was too headstrong, and her line of work wasn't exactly ladylike. She keeps convincing herself that she wants a normal yet interesting husband, but she isn't normal enough to even know where to find those. Then, Spencer waltzes back into her life at the wrong time and sets her world on fire. How is she supposed to focus when he keeps turning up around her?
Spencer had forced himself to forget about Meena. Even though they had a relationship in the past, the past was the past. He was trying to be a good man, less of a thief. Then, Ramsay comes back into his life, threatening all he has. What is he supposed to do, fight him off? Ramsay has all of London wrapped around his finger. So he does what he knows best, his job. Then Meena comes back into his life, and he starts to see light again. All they have to do is defeat Ramsay, and they might just get the happy ending that they wanted.
These characters were some of the most unique that I had seen in a Victorian historical fiction novel, so I was definitely impressed. No rich girls born into money were written here! This was also a historical fiction novel of considerable length, which I appreciated even more. I hate nothing more than to read an extra short book and feel like saying "That's it?" when I get to the end. None of that here! Even the e-version was long enough to feel satisfying.
Nevertheless, the length of this book had nothing to do with the pace the story moved at. There wasn't a dull moment with these characters, I just felt myself flying through the story with ease. I only wish that there was a prequel to this little series so I could get to know the lives (and possibly the previous relationships) of Meena and Spencer before the events of this novel occurred.
I did not notice any grammar or formatting errors as I read the advance version of this novel. It fit very nicely on my large Kindle tablet and had none of those weird text wrapping issues that some ebooks have.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a new romantic mystery historical fiction novel set in the Victorian era.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
March 9, 2019
Delicious Victorian Romantic Suspense
We're in a slightly fantastical Victorian England. The heroine, Philomena Sweet, has done numerous despicable deeds with her cousins at the insistence of her father. She is now determined to make restitution, one case at a time. Renowned for her safe-cracking skills, she now uses them for good and not for evil.
A client comes to the group, asking for help to retrieve a journal that contains many secrets that could be damaging and is now being held for potential future use as blackmail. This is precisely the type of work that the Restitution League does.
Unbeknownst to the group, another one of London's underbelly is being asked to steal this journal. None other than Spencer Crane, master jewel thief and Philomena's former betrothed whom she caught in flagrante delicto, has also been charged to retrieve this by a former associate who threatens both Philomena and Spencer’s sister if he refuses to do the job.
What happens when these two cross paths? Will sparks other than those caused by anger result? Will Philomena and her group be able to help the client?
This book was well written. While there is more than one narrator, I love the section from Philomena’s perspective. She comes across as a lady with a jaded but hopeful, slightly snarky attitude, and it is delicious to read. The book has an edgy yet humorous, not-quite-real vibe to it.
We're in a slightly fantastical Victorian England. The heroine, Philomena Sweet, has done numerous despicable deeds with her cousins at the insistence of her father. She is now determined to make restitution, one case at a time. Renowned for her safe-cracking skills, she now uses them for good and not for evil.
A client comes to the group, asking for help to retrieve a journal that contains many secrets that could be damaging and is now being held for potential future use as blackmail. This is precisely the type of work that the Restitution League does.
Unbeknownst to the group, another one of London's underbelly is being asked to steal this journal. None other than Spencer Crane, master jewel thief and Philomena's former betrothed whom she caught in flagrante delicto, has also been charged to retrieve this by a former associate who threatens both Philomena and Spencer’s sister if he refuses to do the job.
What happens when these two cross paths? Will sparks other than those caused by anger result? Will Philomena and her group be able to help the client?
This book was well written. While there is more than one narrator, I love the section from Philomena’s perspective. She comes across as a lady with a jaded but hopeful, slightly snarky attitude, and it is delicious to read. The book has an edgy yet humorous, not-quite-real vibe to it.
March 29, 2019
Victorian England comes alive within the pages of this series!
I have to admit that I started reading this series out of order by reading the third book first. I enjoyed that book so much I just had to get books 1 and 2 so I could start from the very beginning. I love the whole Sweet family of reformed thieves and their adventurous life as they each meet their soul mates.
I especially liked the vivid depiction of the Victorian era and the industrialization occurring in that time period. If any of you fellow readers have been following and enjoying the series Victoria on PBS, this series of books will be of specific interest to you. Ms. Cole does a wonderful job of remaining true to that era and the inventions that had been developed and were starting to be used by many of the population.
I definitely recommend this series and sincerely hope there will be more books in the future to keep this wonderful series going!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have to admit that I started reading this series out of order by reading the third book first. I enjoyed that book so much I just had to get books 1 and 2 so I could start from the very beginning. I love the whole Sweet family of reformed thieves and their adventurous life as they each meet their soul mates.
I especially liked the vivid depiction of the Victorian era and the industrialization occurring in that time period. If any of you fellow readers have been following and enjoying the series Victoria on PBS, this series of books will be of specific interest to you. Ms. Cole does a wonderful job of remaining true to that era and the inventions that had been developed and were starting to be used by many of the population.
I definitely recommend this series and sincerely hope there will be more books in the future to keep this wonderful series going!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2019
I have never read anything by this author before, but I will definitely be reading more in the future. This is a thrilling historical romance with a refreshing bit of a twist. This is the first book in the author’s Restitution Series and this first story centres on Philomena Sweet and her former fiancé, Spencer Crane. All of the are all engaging and charming and a little bit unique, but very likeable and entertaining. The romance is a slow teasing build throughout the story - incredibly steamy and breathtaking - and suits the tone of the story completely. This story isn’t just a romance though - it is a full on, action packed adventure with a touch of humour. I loved the camaraderie between all the characters. Superb writing, a sharp wit and exceptional attention to detail makes this a delightful read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2017
Rejecting the Rogue is a well written, highly entertaining story with a second chance at love for Meena and Spencer. It has intrigue, suspense, action, adventure, some steamy scenes and best of all a happily ever after love story.
The author weaves the tale in such a way as to bring the reader along for the ride through an abundant supply of well described action, love and family scenes. The love story between Spencer and Meena is believable and well developed throughout the book. Meena’s family and the supporting cast of characters are well fledged out and work in the telling of the tale.
The action scenes and Edison’s inventions put me in mind of a combination of Indiana Jones and The Wild Wild West meets Victorian England.
This is my first book by this author and definitely not the last. I look forward to reading the next installment.
The author weaves the tale in such a way as to bring the reader along for the ride through an abundant supply of well described action, love and family scenes. The love story between Spencer and Meena is believable and well developed throughout the book. Meena’s family and the supporting cast of characters are well fledged out and work in the telling of the tale.
The action scenes and Edison’s inventions put me in mind of a combination of Indiana Jones and The Wild Wild West meets Victorian England.
This is my first book by this author and definitely not the last. I look forward to reading the next installment.
January 10, 2018
Customer Review
5.0 out of 5 starsA well written story
Bysewsummoreon January 10, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I loved this story, it was full of drama and suspense as Spencer and Meena manage to thwart the efforts of vengeful criminal to frame them for crimes they did not commit. It had been many years since Meena had last seen Spencer and she was not happy to involved with him again but events forced them into working together. It was not until she faced deadly peril that she acknowledged that what she felt for him was love. Spencer always felt he was not good enough for her but in the end knew that he must make her his. A well written story full of detail and intense emotion as two lovers finally come togther as one.
5.0 out of 5 starsA well written story
Bysewsummoreon January 10, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I loved this story, it was full of drama and suspense as Spencer and Meena manage to thwart the efforts of vengeful criminal to frame them for crimes they did not commit. It had been many years since Meena had last seen Spencer and she was not happy to involved with him again but events forced them into working together. It was not until she faced deadly peril that she acknowledged that what she felt for him was love. Spencer always felt he was not good enough for her but in the end knew that he must make her his. A well written story full of detail and intense emotion as two lovers finally come togther as one.
December 22, 2017
Exciting story, set in Victorian England. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of all the new inventions used in this family’s escapades. Riley has quite a way with words and ensures that her characters are realistic in their dealings with each other and Society itself. Meena and Spencer are star-crossed lovers who get a second chance to make things right. Circumstances, misunderstanding and fear kept them apart for many years. When they are brought together again, the sparks are still there, but can they overcome the issues from their past to see a way through to their future? I really enjoyed their journey and am looking forward to more of this series. I will be recommending this book to friends and family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 19, 2018
Stellar! There is no other way to describe it. The book has all the elements that are appealing to me: a good entertaining plot, well-fleshed leads and wonderful supportive characters. Without giving much away from the plot, I love that the conflict between them was *real* and it took them years, conversations and a lot of soul-searching on both sides to overcome it. Meena is wonderful and her family is just a fantastic band of highly qualified misfits! Crane was great and the little insight into his family also helped shape his character.
I loved the incorporation of steampunk elements without them being the sole center of the story or overwhelming the rest of the plot and characters.
4 stars and I'm excited to read about the rest of Meena's family finding love :)
I loved the incorporation of steampunk elements without them being the sole center of the story or overwhelming the rest of the plot and characters.
4 stars and I'm excited to read about the rest of Meena's family finding love :)
November 13, 2018
Philomena Sweet, what a great character. I look forward to more excitement with Meena and her cousins! She is witty, strong, intelligent, beautiful and down right naughty when the occasion arises.
Spencer Crane is so swoony. He messed up in a big way and he knows it. He is trying to make amends in his life. Another exciting adventurous and yes, oh so sexy character.
I enjoyed the historical factor to this book as I am a sucker for a good historical story. The author did a great job of setting the scene. The abilities and inventions were make to be of the knowledge that they would have had at the time.
A grand adventure that I look forward to reading more about in the future.
Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks
Spencer Crane is so swoony. He messed up in a big way and he knows it. He is trying to make amends in his life. Another exciting adventurous and yes, oh so sexy character.
I enjoyed the historical factor to this book as I am a sucker for a good historical story. The author did a great job of setting the scene. The abilities and inventions were make to be of the knowledge that they would have had at the time.
A grand adventure that I look forward to reading more about in the future.
Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks
December 26, 2017
A new historical romance author to love!
With REJECTING THE ROGUE, Riley Cole has joined my list of favorite historical romance authors. Her characters are well-crafted. Their quirkiness is delightful. And there are enough twists and turns to the mystery to keep my clicking my Kindle to advance the page!
REJECTING THE ROGUE is the first book of her Restitution League series and I cannot wait to read the next title. There were so many characters in this first book to follow that I see at least three more books to come!
*I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
With REJECTING THE ROGUE, Riley Cole has joined my list of favorite historical romance authors. Her characters are well-crafted. Their quirkiness is delightful. And there are enough twists and turns to the mystery to keep my clicking my Kindle to advance the page!
REJECTING THE ROGUE is the first book of her Restitution League series and I cannot wait to read the next title. There were so many characters in this first book to follow that I see at least three more books to come!
*I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
January 2, 2018
Loved It!
This is a great Victorian Era Story. How Philomeena, her two cousins, and the handsome Spencer, were taught by her father, how to be the best in their field! That the field happened to be pickpockets, safe cracking, different types of Oriental weapons, inventing ingenious Bond type devices, well, that's just a bonus. What a unique, entertaining story! I deducted one star, for the use of the term giggling, to describe an intelligent twenty six year olds laughter. She is smart, kind, considered over the hill, not a ten year old. Other than that, a very good adventure story.
I highly recommend! Thanks! Enjoy!
carolintallahassee
This is a great Victorian Era Story. How Philomeena, her two cousins, and the handsome Spencer, were taught by her father, how to be the best in their field! That the field happened to be pickpockets, safe cracking, different types of Oriental weapons, inventing ingenious Bond type devices, well, that's just a bonus. What a unique, entertaining story! I deducted one star, for the use of the term giggling, to describe an intelligent twenty six year olds laughter. She is smart, kind, considered over the hill, not a ten year old. Other than that, a very good adventure story.
I highly recommend! Thanks! Enjoy!
carolintallahassee
January 9, 2019
I won a copy of this book from this amazing, and talented Author:)
I enjoyed reading this Victorian romance. It is action packed and a page turner!
Meena and Spencer have a past and let's just say, she is not too happy yo see this handsome rogue again. I enjoyed the characters, the attention to details, and the dialogue.
You can slowly see the attraction between Meena and Spencer throughout the story! It could have had sizzling love scenes, but I still loved this book.
I liked this book because it was different from the romance's I read. It had so much going on, in a very good way, I couldn't stop reading it and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Cole!
I enjoyed reading this Victorian romance. It is action packed and a page turner!
Meena and Spencer have a past and let's just say, she is not too happy yo see this handsome rogue again. I enjoyed the characters, the attention to details, and the dialogue.
You can slowly see the attraction between Meena and Spencer throughout the story! It could have had sizzling love scenes, but I still loved this book.
I liked this book because it was different from the romance's I read. It had so much going on, in a very good way, I couldn't stop reading it and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Cole!
April 4, 2019
I loved this sexy historical romance with great characters, romance and lots of intrigue. Meena and her brother and cousins were forced by her father to steal and kill. When he finally went to prison, they began helping those that could benefit from their skills but couldn't afford to pay. She went to a ball in order to steal an incriminating diary and replace it with a fake one. In the process, her ex fiance took it away since he was forced to steal it. This started a huge collaboration of her family and her ex. There was so much intrigue I couldn't put it down. The ending was great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2019
Outstanding!
This is not your typical historical romance. Although romance, and a steamy second chance romance at that, is a great part of the storyline, mystery, intrigue and suspense are so intertwined, that the story grabbed me from page one and led me on a merry dance till the end. The characters are amazing, well-developed and with a depth that made me feel as if I was really aqcuainted with them, while the writing was wonderful, making me feel every and each of the characters' emotions. I can't wait to see what Riley Cole has in store for the rest of the characters!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is not your typical historical romance. Although romance, and a steamy second chance romance at that, is a great part of the storyline, mystery, intrigue and suspense are so intertwined, that the story grabbed me from page one and led me on a merry dance till the end. The characters are amazing, well-developed and with a depth that made me feel as if I was really aqcuainted with them, while the writing was wonderful, making me feel every and each of the characters' emotions. I can't wait to see what Riley Cole has in store for the rest of the characters!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2019
Book one of the Restitution League Series a well written book I enjoyed reading. This is a new Author to me.
Philomena Sweet is the best safe cracker in London and dashing jewel thief Spencer Crane is her ex who broke her heart a long time ago. Spencer is running for his life and needs her help. A second chance Victorian historical fiction novel with suspense. I recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Philomena Sweet is the best safe cracker in London and dashing jewel thief Spencer Crane is her ex who broke her heart a long time ago. Spencer is running for his life and needs her help. A second chance Victorian historical fiction novel with suspense. I recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2018
Highly intriguing with a Victorian setting headed by a badass female protagonist. The POV switch between the male lead added to the heart and ache. Liked the communication that was carried out between the two after their fallout. The other side characters added to the story. As for the plot it was simple and interesting enough. I liked this more for the setting and the sometimes fun scenes.
Special thanks to InkSlingerPR and the author for this review copy.
Special thanks to InkSlingerPR and the author for this review copy.
October 16, 2018
I have read this book on my smartphone, and enjoyed it with its female safecracking protagonist and her tales of dating a bad-un! I enjoy historical fiction, and although the characters are not (I don't think) based on real people, it is written of the time. It reminded me of the TV series 'Ripper Street' in a good way.
March 31, 2019
Philomena is a world renowned safe cracker and Spencer is a thief who has crossed paths with her before and now he is running from danger and right into her arms. Will their love story prevail or will they catch up with them and kill them. I loved this book and can't wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2019
This is the 1st book I've read written Riley Cole; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I will definitely be reading more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2018
I have been trying to expand my Historical Romance horizons but it has been hard for me to do so but I really loved this book. The mystery, the angst, the romance all of it just loved it. Can't wait to read the second book in this series and hope to read more from this author.
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