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The King's Rogues #1
Live and Let Spy
England, 1804
Refused his rightful promotion, Adam Hardacre quits the Royal Navy in disgust and is quickly approached with an intriguing proposition to serve his country undercover.
His first assignment takes him home to Cornwall to expose traitors plotting a French invasion of England. There, he meets newly unemployed governess, Olivia Collins, who has stumbled upon a hidden secret from Adam’s past—his youthful summer love affair with the local squire’s daughter. It is a tragic history that brings Adam and Olivia closer than is wise.
However, with the attraction deepening to something more, neither realize that Olivia unwittingly holds the key to his mission.
As Adam infiltrates the plot, Olivia finds out the shocking truth behind his lost love’s death many years ago, and both their lives are in danger. But their growing relationship is clouded by suspicion. Who can and cannot be trusted—anyone or no one?
Or... even each other?
Refused his rightful promotion, Adam Hardacre quits the Royal Navy in disgust and is quickly approached with an intriguing proposition to serve his country undercover.
His first assignment takes him home to Cornwall to expose traitors plotting a French invasion of England. There, he meets newly unemployed governess, Olivia Collins, who has stumbled upon a hidden secret from Adam’s past—his youthful summer love affair with the local squire’s daughter. It is a tragic history that brings Adam and Olivia closer than is wise.
However, with the attraction deepening to something more, neither realize that Olivia unwittingly holds the key to his mission.
As Adam infiltrates the plot, Olivia finds out the shocking truth behind his lost love’s death many years ago, and both their lives are in danger. But their growing relationship is clouded by suspicion. Who can and cannot be trusted—anyone or no one?
Or... even each other?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2018
278 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
59 books354 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Ellen Carter is an award-winning historical romance writer who pens richly detailed historical romantic adventures. A former newspaper journalist, Carter ran an award-winning PR agency for 12 years. She lives in Australia.
On the publication of her debut novel in 2013, Carter was heralded by critics as ‘a writer worth keeping an eye on’ with a style reminiscent of classic suspense novelist Daphne du Maurier. This impression has been borne out in her subsequent work.
Her full-length novels frequently feature psychologically complex relations between the central characters and often delve into dark themes.
Nonetheless, she also occasionally turns her hand to sweet romance (always with a touch of adventure) suitable for younger readers as well as older fans looking for a change of pace.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter’s full-length titles and several novellas have been published by Dragonblade Publishing since 2017. She also regularly contributes to various multi-author anthologies and is a member of The Bluestocking Belles group of Regency romance authors.
On the publication of her debut novel in 2013, Carter was heralded by critics as ‘a writer worth keeping an eye on’ with a style reminiscent of classic suspense novelist Daphne du Maurier. This impression has been borne out in her subsequent work.
Her full-length novels frequently feature psychologically complex relations between the central characters and often delve into dark themes.
Nonetheless, she also occasionally turns her hand to sweet romance (always with a touch of adventure) suitable for younger readers as well as older fans looking for a change of pace.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter’s full-length titles and several novellas have been published by Dragonblade Publishing since 2017. She also regularly contributes to various multi-author anthologies and is a member of The Bluestocking Belles group of Regency romance authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 19, 2019
4.5 assigned
Very impressive!
Very impressive!
January 27, 2022
4.5 stars --- good all the way through
December 22, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋
Tension , adventure, romance ,
That’s what you will find in this book , and it’s awesome!
Elizabeth has begun this new series in stunning style.
Adam Hardacre , is the father of Kit (from Captain of the Corsairs) and Olivia is a Governess to the family of Adams lost love and Kits Mother, it may sound confusing but it’s not honestly.
What it is ,is totally brilliant and one of the best reads this year .
This is all set way before the Corsairs series, and is just as good , Adam is drafted into the Kings Rogues , it’s a spy network looking for traitors , those in positions of power working for France , he can’t trust anyone, not strangers or acquaintances, not his friends , and not Olivia .
To do so puts all their lives at risk.
Please do buy this book, especially if your a fan of the Corsairs.
It’s not a cliffhanger, but there will be more adventures for Adams and his friends.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Tension , adventure, romance ,
That’s what you will find in this book , and it’s awesome!
Elizabeth has begun this new series in stunning style.
Adam Hardacre , is the father of Kit (from Captain of the Corsairs) and Olivia is a Governess to the family of Adams lost love and Kits Mother, it may sound confusing but it’s not honestly.
What it is ,is totally brilliant and one of the best reads this year .
This is all set way before the Corsairs series, and is just as good , Adam is drafted into the Kings Rogues , it’s a spy network looking for traitors , those in positions of power working for France , he can’t trust anyone, not strangers or acquaintances, not his friends , and not Olivia .
To do so puts all their lives at risk.
Please do buy this book, especially if your a fan of the Corsairs.
It’s not a cliffhanger, but there will be more adventures for Adams and his friends.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
December 29, 2018
An adventure that grabs hold until the end! Adam, previously of the Royal Navy, is approached by and ends up working for the Kings Rouges, the Crowns spy network who look for traitors. His first assignment is to root out a group of French planning an invasion. Going to Cornwall, his home, he runs into Olivia, who finds out some information about Adam’s past.
The story takes off with secrets, intrigue and truths that come out that could harm those near. As Adam and Olivia work together, they grow close but have a hard time trusting each other. Can the real traitors be exposed? Will the two come together?
If you have read The Corsairs series by Elizabeth, this was actually set before that time. Prepare to be enthralled in this fantastic story! Cannot wait for more!
The story takes off with secrets, intrigue and truths that come out that could harm those near. As Adam and Olivia work together, they grow close but have a hard time trusting each other. Can the real traitors be exposed? Will the two come together?
If you have read The Corsairs series by Elizabeth, this was actually set before that time. Prepare to be enthralled in this fantastic story! Cannot wait for more!
March 16, 2020
No Ian Fleming
The title itself should have warned me off. (Really? A James Bond allusion?) But I forged ahead, thinking a good spy thriller with a Victorian setting might be worth a read. The fact is I didn’t hate the characters. What didn’t cut it for me was the spy aspects of the plot.
I was onboard right up to the first meeting of Adam with the French spy ring. The guy lists a couple of tests that Adam must fulfill before they will trust him, but for some reason they are never mentioned again. Instead the plot abruptly switches to Adam getting the spy ring phony ship plans. Huh? Where did that come from?
And then story ends with a bunch of unresolved issues (who is the spy master, why did Adam’s friend betray him, where did the semaphore code book come from, etc) which I find annoying to say the least — especially since the author makes it a point to say the books are a series but are stand alone. Ian Fleming could make that claim, this author? Not so much.
The title itself should have warned me off. (Really? A James Bond allusion?) But I forged ahead, thinking a good spy thriller with a Victorian setting might be worth a read. The fact is I didn’t hate the characters. What didn’t cut it for me was the spy aspects of the plot.
I was onboard right up to the first meeting of Adam with the French spy ring. The guy lists a couple of tests that Adam must fulfill before they will trust him, but for some reason they are never mentioned again. Instead the plot abruptly switches to Adam getting the spy ring phony ship plans. Huh? Where did that come from?
And then story ends with a bunch of unresolved issues (who is the spy master, why did Adam’s friend betray him, where did the semaphore code book come from, etc) which I find annoying to say the least — especially since the author makes it a point to say the books are a series but are stand alone. Ian Fleming could make that claim, this author? Not so much.
December 28, 2018
Live and Let Spy
(The King's Rogues #1)
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adam Hardacre is refused the promotion that he deserves so he quits the royal navy and is quickly offered an intriguing proposition to keep serving his country while undercover. He has now been drafted into the King's Rogues which is a Spy Network looking for traitors.His first assignment takes him back home to Cornwall to expose traitors plotting a French invasion of England.
Olivia Collins is a newly unemployed governess who has accidentally stumbled upon a secret from Adam's past - his youthful summer tryst with the local squire's daughter. It's a sad history that brings Adam and Olivia closer then they should be. With the attraction deepening to something more, neither of them seem to realize that Olivia unwittingly holds the key to his mission.
While Adam is infiltrating the plot, Olivia finds out the shocking truth behind his lost love's death so long ago, and now both their lives are in danger. But their growing relationship is clouded by suspicion. Who can and cannot be trusted? Anyone or no one? Or can they even trust eachother?
Elizabeth Ellen Carter has such talent. I found Adam to be a strong character with some wonderful traits. He is so upset at the start of the book. When I read why he was in the navy and the mystery surrounding his past memories I felt bad for him however that didn't last long as he seemed to have no problem taking a bad situation and turning it into something that worked for him. Olivia is a great character as well. An out of work governess who seemed to to feel very compassionate for a lady who died many years before. Put these two together and they just lit up the book. I really enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to other historical romance readers. For those of you who have read Captain of the Corsairs this is set before that as Adam is Kit's Father.
(The King's Rogues #1)
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adam Hardacre is refused the promotion that he deserves so he quits the royal navy and is quickly offered an intriguing proposition to keep serving his country while undercover. He has now been drafted into the King's Rogues which is a Spy Network looking for traitors.His first assignment takes him back home to Cornwall to expose traitors plotting a French invasion of England.
Olivia Collins is a newly unemployed governess who has accidentally stumbled upon a secret from Adam's past - his youthful summer tryst with the local squire's daughter. It's a sad history that brings Adam and Olivia closer then they should be. With the attraction deepening to something more, neither of them seem to realize that Olivia unwittingly holds the key to his mission.
While Adam is infiltrating the plot, Olivia finds out the shocking truth behind his lost love's death so long ago, and now both their lives are in danger. But their growing relationship is clouded by suspicion. Who can and cannot be trusted? Anyone or no one? Or can they even trust eachother?
Elizabeth Ellen Carter has such talent. I found Adam to be a strong character with some wonderful traits. He is so upset at the start of the book. When I read why he was in the navy and the mystery surrounding his past memories I felt bad for him however that didn't last long as he seemed to have no problem taking a bad situation and turning it into something that worked for him. Olivia is a great character as well. An out of work governess who seemed to to feel very compassionate for a lady who died many years before. Put these two together and they just lit up the book. I really enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to other historical romance readers. For those of you who have read Captain of the Corsairs this is set before that as Adam is Kit's Father.
March 21, 2021
Well written
I liked this book. No vulgar sex scenes, just enough spy thriller without being tedious. Can’t wait to read the next book!
I liked this book. No vulgar sex scenes, just enough spy thriller without being tedious. Can’t wait to read the next book!
April 10, 2021
Disappointing
When he is turned down for a promotion because of his commoner roots, Adam Hardacre resigns in protest. Immediately there after he is approached by a man Daniel Ridgeway to join his Majesty’s Secret Service. Napoleon is looking to invade England. It is up to Daniel Ridgeway and his cadre of spies to stop him. And to do so he needs Adam. Since the conspirators are utilizing his old hometown as their base.
Meanwhile, former governess Olivia is helping her soon to be ex employer finish up the preparation’s to sell their home. While on the hunt for a new job as well as fending off Romantic gestures from the family solicitor, Olivia stumbles into a mystery. It turns out that the long lost daughter of the family had an illicit affair with one Adam Hardacre. And set affair resulted in a son.
Eventually the to run into each other and stuff happens.
—
I really wanted to like this book. But I didn’t. And it just wasn’t for one reason but multiple reasons which I will go into in this review.
This book has a pacing problem.
The romantic leads don’t even encounter each other until page 55 of a 310 page book. That is way too late. Additionally for much of the book, the romantic leads don’t have much interaction. They’re often doing their separate things. Adam is off being a spy. While Olivia is fending off another suitor trying to find another post and attempting to hunt down what happened to Adam’s illegitimate son. Then once the action starts to reach its head, everything moves too fast to the point where stuff gets lost. I don’t want to spoil the ending of the book but let’s just say that there are lots of steps I just that happened that don’t make any logical sense.
This book has a romance problem.
What little time they do spend together is all lust and instalove. And I don’t really buy it. The romance felt tacked on to the spy story that the author wanted to tell. Additionally a lot of the language used to convey the romantic leads attraction to each other is fear language words like trembling shivering shaking stocking predatory things like that things that could be used to describe negative interactions. And worse there is a non-consensual kiss fairly early on in their meeting.
This book needed better editing.
And not just copy editing. Which it did need. They were missing words,wrong words, and weird punctuation all over the place. But there are also anachronisms, like tons of anachronisms. Like for instance the term heebie-jeebies, a term that was not coined until 1923. Or the word push-ups, which wasn’t in use to describe the exercise until the 1880s at the earliest. Or the fact they’re having orange pekoe tea. Which Was invented by James Lipton and he wasn’t born until 1840. The book takes place in 1804. These are things that should have been caught.
Then there’s also the seriously problematic language. Not just the fear language. But also the use of a slur a racist slur to refer to the Romani people. The book was published in 2018. There is no excuse for using the G slur anymore. Especially when it was very much not needed. There’s also othering and problematic language to describe people of Welsh descent. This alone drops the book a star.
Worse, it appears as though this book is sandwiched in between two of her other novels, and so there’s lots of Easter eggs for people who read her other books, but if this is the first book that you’re starting with, like I am, you feel sort of lost. It also limits the story in a way. And frankly it bothers me because this is the first book of a series it shouldn’t be dependent on knowledge of other books or other series.
And while I mentioned the ending before, I need to bring it up again. It was that bad. The ending which was both confusing and disjointed and unsatisfactory. There’s a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this. Plus there’s a point in this where I just literally screamed out oh goody it’s the cavalry riding to the rescue like in the old westerns. It didn’t make any sense. It was a pure deus ex machina ending and it was done badly.
Honestly I had such high hopes for this book and I’m walking away utterly disappointed.
One star
When he is turned down for a promotion because of his commoner roots, Adam Hardacre resigns in protest. Immediately there after he is approached by a man Daniel Ridgeway to join his Majesty’s Secret Service. Napoleon is looking to invade England. It is up to Daniel Ridgeway and his cadre of spies to stop him. And to do so he needs Adam. Since the conspirators are utilizing his old hometown as their base.
Meanwhile, former governess Olivia is helping her soon to be ex employer finish up the preparation’s to sell their home. While on the hunt for a new job as well as fending off Romantic gestures from the family solicitor, Olivia stumbles into a mystery. It turns out that the long lost daughter of the family had an illicit affair with one Adam Hardacre. And set affair resulted in a son.
Eventually the to run into each other and stuff happens.
—
I really wanted to like this book. But I didn’t. And it just wasn’t for one reason but multiple reasons which I will go into in this review.
This book has a pacing problem.
The romantic leads don’t even encounter each other until page 55 of a 310 page book. That is way too late. Additionally for much of the book, the romantic leads don’t have much interaction. They’re often doing their separate things. Adam is off being a spy. While Olivia is fending off another suitor trying to find another post and attempting to hunt down what happened to Adam’s illegitimate son. Then once the action starts to reach its head, everything moves too fast to the point where stuff gets lost. I don’t want to spoil the ending of the book but let’s just say that there are lots of steps I just that happened that don’t make any logical sense.
This book has a romance problem.
What little time they do spend together is all lust and instalove. And I don’t really buy it. The romance felt tacked on to the spy story that the author wanted to tell. Additionally a lot of the language used to convey the romantic leads attraction to each other is fear language words like trembling shivering shaking stocking predatory things like that things that could be used to describe negative interactions. And worse there is a non-consensual kiss fairly early on in their meeting.
This book needed better editing.
And not just copy editing. Which it did need. They were missing words,wrong words, and weird punctuation all over the place. But there are also anachronisms, like tons of anachronisms. Like for instance the term heebie-jeebies, a term that was not coined until 1923. Or the word push-ups, which wasn’t in use to describe the exercise until the 1880s at the earliest. Or the fact they’re having orange pekoe tea. Which Was invented by James Lipton and he wasn’t born until 1840. The book takes place in 1804. These are things that should have been caught.
Then there’s also the seriously problematic language. Not just the fear language. But also the use of a slur a racist slur to refer to the Romani people. The book was published in 2018. There is no excuse for using the G slur anymore. Especially when it was very much not needed. There’s also othering and problematic language to describe people of Welsh descent. This alone drops the book a star.
Worse, it appears as though this book is sandwiched in between two of her other novels, and so there’s lots of Easter eggs for people who read her other books, but if this is the first book that you’re starting with, like I am, you feel sort of lost. It also limits the story in a way. And frankly it bothers me because this is the first book of a series it shouldn’t be dependent on knowledge of other books or other series.
And while I mentioned the ending before, I need to bring it up again. It was that bad. The ending which was both confusing and disjointed and unsatisfactory. There’s a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this. Plus there’s a point in this where I just literally screamed out oh goody it’s the cavalry riding to the rescue like in the old westerns. It didn’t make any sense. It was a pure deus ex machina ending and it was done badly.
Honestly I had such high hopes for this book and I’m walking away utterly disappointed.
One star
April 5, 2019
4.5/5.0
Danger, intrigue and romance! Oh my!
Read full review in the 2019 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Danger, intrigue and romance! Oh my!
Read full review in the 2019 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 25, 2024
Early Regency set in Cornwall - 4 and 1/2 Stars!
The story begins in 1804 when Adam Hardacre, a seaman in the Royal Navy, is refused a promotion to officer he well deserves. He quits in disgust and is then approached by a senior spy who wants him to serve his country undercover. It was all a setup to put Adam in the place the government agents want him.
Adam takes up his work as a spy and is assigned to Cornwall where he spent his youth. There he is to ferret out traitors plotting a French invasion of England. While about this task, he meets a governess between jobs, Olivia Collins. Interested in Adam, she finds a secret from his past—a youthful summer love affair with the local squire’s daughter that led to a child he is not aware of.
Olivia gets tangled up in Adam’s spying and both end up in trouble. The story is well-written and has enough twists to hold your attention. While the hero is a seaman turned spy, there are no scenes aboard a ship. It’s more of an early Regency, but the Cornwall setting adds flavor. The characters are well drawn and the bad guy(s) deceptive.
A good story.
The story begins in 1804 when Adam Hardacre, a seaman in the Royal Navy, is refused a promotion to officer he well deserves. He quits in disgust and is then approached by a senior spy who wants him to serve his country undercover. It was all a setup to put Adam in the place the government agents want him.
Adam takes up his work as a spy and is assigned to Cornwall where he spent his youth. There he is to ferret out traitors plotting a French invasion of England. While about this task, he meets a governess between jobs, Olivia Collins. Interested in Adam, she finds a secret from his past—a youthful summer love affair with the local squire’s daughter that led to a child he is not aware of.
Olivia gets tangled up in Adam’s spying and both end up in trouble. The story is well-written and has enough twists to hold your attention. While the hero is a seaman turned spy, there are no scenes aboard a ship. It’s more of an early Regency, but the Cornwall setting adds flavor. The characters are well drawn and the bad guy(s) deceptive.
A good story.
December 28, 2018
In anger Adam Hardacre quits the Royal Navy after he’s denied another promotion, but another surprising offer comes from an unexpected source asking him if he want to spy for the government. He returns to Cornwall and meets Olivia Collins a governess who has just lost her job. Olivia has been asked to clean up the estate when she stumbles upon a diary of her former employer’s daughter, Constance who fell in love with Adam and reads a hidden secret from his past. You can’t help but root for Adam and Olivia to fall in love, even as neither of them seem to realize that Olivia unwittingly holds the key to his mission. A good book with mystery, intrigue and romance all thrown into this book. This my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
December 28, 2018
Becoming a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy was what dreams are made of, especially for Adam Hardacre. He had passed the testing twice and was denied again because his social standing. Adam was the son of a carpenter and not a member of society; so, he was refused a higher rank. In disgust he quits the Navy and is approached with an offer to serve his country undercover. Olivia Collins had been a governess at Kenstec House for Squire Denton’s daughter for ten years and after his death; she stayed to help his lawyer close the estate. Adam and Olivia become friends as they both adjust to surviving the obstacles in their lives. Elizabeth Ellen Carter has written a lively account of mystery, hidden secrets, wonderful characters, romance and of course, spies. This is one you do not want to miss.
December 31, 2018
Adam Hardacre was pressed into the navy as a sixteen year old boy. Now twenty years later he is hoping to win a good promotion. There is a war going on with France and the Navy needs all it's experienced men.
Olivia Collins is no longer needed as a governess. The girl she has looked after for the last ten years is off to London with her mother. Olivia will help the lawyer and servants prepare the house for sale, while applying for another post.
There are lots of mysteries to solve in this story and a great deal of danger for our main characters . It's nice to have our hero and heroine come from ordinary working class stock. Their struggles are something we can all relate to.
This is part of a series but easily read on it's own. It will however tempt you to read the others.
I loved it.
Olivia Collins is no longer needed as a governess. The girl she has looked after for the last ten years is off to London with her mother. Olivia will help the lawyer and servants prepare the house for sale, while applying for another post.
There are lots of mysteries to solve in this story and a great deal of danger for our main characters . It's nice to have our hero and heroine come from ordinary working class stock. Their struggles are something we can all relate to.
This is part of a series but easily read on it's own. It will however tempt you to read the others.
I loved it.
December 30, 2018
A couple that spies together...
Terrific story about a man, Adam, is a twenty year English navy man denied promotion because of his lack of social standing. At least, that is part of the reason. He becomes engaged in intrigue as a result of changes in his life and meets Olivia, a young governess whose charges have moved on and she is in between positions.
Olivia discovers information regarding Adam’s past that she shares with him which only adds to their increasing bond. The two are attracted to each other and their relationship becomes more than just a case of mutual lust as they are drawn into a world of spying and danger during a time of war.
This is the first in a series and I really enjoyed it, I am looking forward to the next!
Terrific story about a man, Adam, is a twenty year English navy man denied promotion because of his lack of social standing. At least, that is part of the reason. He becomes engaged in intrigue as a result of changes in his life and meets Olivia, a young governess whose charges have moved on and she is in between positions.
Olivia discovers information regarding Adam’s past that she shares with him which only adds to their increasing bond. The two are attracted to each other and their relationship becomes more than just a case of mutual lust as they are drawn into a world of spying and danger during a time of war.
This is the first in a series and I really enjoyed it, I am looking forward to the next!
June 24, 2019
Olivia Collins is a governess who is left behind to help the family solicitor clean up her deceased employer's estate. Adam Hardacre was impressed in the Royal Navy 20 years ago. He made it his life's work and tried for Lieutenant three times. At his last hearing for promotion, he is denied his wish and resigns on the spot. But before Adam can think what to do next, he is approached by a civilian who sat in on his promotion hearing. This man holds his future in his hands but Adam won't know it until he heads back to Pensnowyth, his home so many years ago. He goes to the Squire's estate, looking for the girl he had loved so long ago and thought he had found her when he saw Olivia. But life has many new surprises for him and Olivia. True love being the best surprise of all.
July 30, 2020
I loved reading Live and Let Spy. The story and the main characters are great, and the suspense is cleverly crafted to keep readers interested until the end.
There are, however, a few loose ends in the plot - maybe they will become clear in the next two books in the series but when you're going through book one it's a bit frustrating, to be honest.
So overall a good book, especially for lovers of historical romance mixed with action and suspense, but I have the feeling we need to read the the other two books in the series to get the full picture.
Live and Let Spy is book one in the King's Rogues series by Elizabeth Ellen Carter and yes, all three books have titles that remind you of that famous spy.
There are, however, a few loose ends in the plot - maybe they will become clear in the next two books in the series but when you're going through book one it's a bit frustrating, to be honest.
So overall a good book, especially for lovers of historical romance mixed with action and suspense, but I have the feeling we need to read the the other two books in the series to get the full picture.
Live and Let Spy is book one in the King's Rogues series by Elizabeth Ellen Carter and yes, all three books have titles that remind you of that famous spy.
May 14, 2023
An enjoyable King's Rogue
Adam is in the King's Navy, hoping to break through to the officers' rank of Lieutenant. Despite being the best of his class, his lower birth precludes him from being considered for this position. Class apparently matters in Naval ranks as elsewhere. However, this setback sets up Adam for an even better adventure, as a King's Rogue under the guidance of Sir Daniel Ridgeway. As he navigates his first assignment, it becomes complicated by Olivia, a former governess for the Denton family. Add in a handmade puzzle box, a former lover, a current beau, a betrayal and the women's arm of the Rogues and you have this suspenseful story which was hard to put down until "The End."
Adam is in the King's Navy, hoping to break through to the officers' rank of Lieutenant. Despite being the best of his class, his lower birth precludes him from being considered for this position. Class apparently matters in Naval ranks as elsewhere. However, this setback sets up Adam for an even better adventure, as a King's Rogue under the guidance of Sir Daniel Ridgeway. As he navigates his first assignment, it becomes complicated by Olivia, a former governess for the Denton family. Add in a handmade puzzle box, a former lover, a current beau, a betrayal and the women's arm of the Rogues and you have this suspenseful story which was hard to put down until "The End."
March 1, 2025
Start of a series
Adam Hardacre has been refused the promotion he deserves and resigns from the Royal Navy. He is then recruited to help unmask a spy ring in Cornwall (his home county).
Olivia Collins has been the governess to the family living in the house to which Adam has old connections.
Whilst clearing old documents Olivia makes some discoveries which bring the two of them together and which place them both in danger.
There are several betrayals during this story, some of which I suspect will have repercussions in upcoming books. I am looking forward to reading not just the other books in this series but the other series by Elizabeth Ellen Carter as they are linked by various characters.
Adam Hardacre has been refused the promotion he deserves and resigns from the Royal Navy. He is then recruited to help unmask a spy ring in Cornwall (his home county).
Olivia Collins has been the governess to the family living in the house to which Adam has old connections.
Whilst clearing old documents Olivia makes some discoveries which bring the two of them together and which place them both in danger.
There are several betrayals during this story, some of which I suspect will have repercussions in upcoming books. I am looking forward to reading not just the other books in this series but the other series by Elizabeth Ellen Carter as they are linked by various characters.
May 16, 2023
This is a well-written, very detailed if not somewhat complicated Regency spy story. It centers around Bosom Adam Hardacre who is refused an advancement due to lack of status and Governess Olivia whose position just concluded. While cleaning out the remains of a house, she comes across Adam's history and chooses to share this with him, not knowing a past lover had his child. While Adam is employed in Cornwall to spy on a radical group undermining the King, he and Olivia become entwined, then endangered in the cause. Again, many twists and turns if one can keep up with them but entertaining to those who can.
December 28, 2018
Adam Hardacre has managed to make his way up the ranks, despite not being a titled gentleman. When his promotion is denied, he tenders his resignation and leaves his position in the Royal Navy. Returning to his home, he begins to suspect a very sinister plot against England. Olivia has always wondered about the daughter that was never acknowledged. She finds this a very sad, but interesting mystery. This mystery brings Adam and Olivia together in a joint quest. The story is a very intriguing read, one that will keep you guessing the identity of the villain until the end.
December 28, 2018
Adam Hardacre was passed over for for a promotion to Lieutenant in the Navy again. Angry and disgusted he resigns. Wondering what he is going to do with his life he is approached by men wanting him to spy for the government. Olivia is a governess who is soon to be without a job. When she stays at an inn she meets Adam whom she has heard lots of stories about. This story is full of mystery and intrigue. Very enjoyable to read. Adam and Olivia were destined to be in love. I would definitely recommend reading this one!
March 18, 2020
Commoner romance in the regency era
Good regency romance with suspense. Good scenery, good plot, good character development, good romance. It was nice to read a regency that was about plain folk, not nobles.
Sex: 1 scene
Language: 0 F words, 13 Lord's name in vain, 2 S words
Violence: punches, kidnapping, knives, guns, bloody murder, shooting murder, fights
Cliffhanger: not for the romance; the spying, yes
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: probably
Good regency romance with suspense. Good scenery, good plot, good character development, good romance. It was nice to read a regency that was about plain folk, not nobles.
Sex: 1 scene
Language: 0 F words, 13 Lord's name in vain, 2 S words
Violence: punches, kidnapping, knives, guns, bloody murder, shooting murder, fights
Cliffhanger: not for the romance; the spying, yes
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: probably
December 28, 2018
Adam and Olivia's story is one you will thoroughly enjoy! If you love Regency romances you are in for a treat. Just know that this author can create a grand scenario of intrigue and romance. Pick this up now and enjoy! This is a must read for all those who are looking to sit down with a historical regency romance, but one that has intrigue as well. The spy aspect draws you in.
I received this a gift and I am so happy I did.
I received this a gift and I am so happy I did.
April 7, 2020
At his last exam for Navy Lieutenant, Petty Officer Adam Hardacre is told that becoming a Lieutenant is out of his reach, due to him not being a gentleman and in anger he quits the Navy. Not long after that he is offered a position as a spy. His very public resignation may lead to French spies and their English agents contacting him and that could give the British the information about dissent and treachery on the English soil. In the meantime, newly unemployed governess Olivia Collins discovers the reasons her former employer's daughter from his first marriage is not mentioned by anyone at the house. Then, she meets Adam, who came back to his old village from where he was press ganged into the Navy years before.
This is very much a Regency Romance with some spying included. I liked that the hero was a carpenter's son who despite his obvious advantages could not be promoted beyond a Petty officer because he was of the wrong social class. Similarly, Olivia wasn't a daughter of an impoverished earl fleeing from some gothic villain.
Unfortunately, the spying was incredibly convoluted. If this is how spying was done, any half decent French spy of the era could have easily outwitted the resident British spymaster. I struggled to follow that story. However, the romance portion was nicely done and I liked the easy rapport between the two leads.
The spying plotline maybe floundering, but as a background for the romance and the uncovering of history between Adam and the squire's daughter it worked well. A solid 3 stars. For a more believable spying storylines, Rose Melikan's "Blackstone key" and it's follow up books are a better read.
This is very much a Regency Romance with some spying included. I liked that the hero was a carpenter's son who despite his obvious advantages could not be promoted beyond a Petty officer because he was of the wrong social class. Similarly, Olivia wasn't a daughter of an impoverished earl fleeing from some gothic villain.
Unfortunately, the spying was incredibly convoluted. If this is how spying was done, any half decent French spy of the era could have easily outwitted the resident British spymaster. I struggled to follow that story. However, the romance portion was nicely done and I liked the easy rapport between the two leads.
The spying plotline maybe floundering, but as a background for the romance and the uncovering of history between Adam and the squire's daughter it worked well. A solid 3 stars. For a more believable spying storylines, Rose Melikan's "Blackstone key" and it's follow up books are a better read.
April 3, 2020
Believable characters, interesting plot
Olivia and Adam are relatable characters, each grappling with their changing circumstances. We get to know and root for them before they are attracted to each other, which makes them and their relationship more believable and interesting. As they commit to each other they discover life is more than it seems and their future is stranger than could have ever imagined. An intriguing beginning to a spy series.
Olivia and Adam are relatable characters, each grappling with their changing circumstances. We get to know and root for them before they are attracted to each other, which makes them and their relationship more believable and interesting. As they commit to each other they discover life is more than it seems and their future is stranger than could have ever imagined. An intriguing beginning to a spy series.
April 17, 2020
Well Written But Slow To Unravel
The element of mystery was intriguing, but the plot wasn't very suspenseful. The writing did well at painting pictures of events, but the pacing was slow, and I found myself nearing boredom at times. Also, although Adam had a fiery spirit and Olivia was smart and resourceful, both seemed dull somehow. The spy operation carried more weight than the romance in this one.
The element of mystery was intriguing, but the plot wasn't very suspenseful. The writing did well at painting pictures of events, but the pacing was slow, and I found myself nearing boredom at times. Also, although Adam had a fiery spirit and Olivia was smart and resourceful, both seemed dull somehow. The spy operation carried more weight than the romance in this one.
January 22, 2019
Trouble
was I read this as she is a new author to me without realising the Heart of the Corsairs boxed set came first. I therefore read the boxed set after the rogues one so everything sort of fell into place. Can very much recommend these books as thoroughly enjoyed them. Excellent reads.
was I read this as she is a new author to me without realising the Heart of the Corsairs boxed set came first. I therefore read the boxed set after the rogues one so everything sort of fell into place. Can very much recommend these books as thoroughly enjoyed them. Excellent reads.
May 18, 2020
Full of twist and turns
A delightful romance with twists and turns, who can you trust. As romance develops between a governess and a recently discharge sailor there are underlying intrigues related to the war with France. Enjoyed reading the book look forward to reading another from the author
A delightful romance with twists and turns, who can you trust. As romance develops between a governess and a recently discharge sailor there are underlying intrigues related to the war with France. Enjoyed reading the book look forward to reading another from the author
September 30, 2020
A wonderful start to the series
This is a wonderful first book in a series that shows great promise. The plot is full of , twists and turns, as well as a surprise or two. The characters are strong and portrayed wonderfully. This book will suit all those who love risky historical romances that have a bit of suspense.
This is a wonderful first book in a series that shows great promise. The plot is full of , twists and turns, as well as a surprise or two. The characters are strong and portrayed wonderfully. This book will suit all those who love risky historical romances that have a bit of suspense.
May 17, 2021
I really wanted to enjoy this book and mostly I did, but there were large parts that just dragged on and, while i felt the connection between Olivia and Adam, their conflict and resolution just wasn't quite there. I do still intend to read the others in the series so I'd count that a 3.5 more than 3. Hoping their spy stories pick up a bit though!
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