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Pressley-Coombes #1
Catherine's Intrigue
To fulfill her mother's last request, twenty-four-year-old historic design specialist Catherine Pressley-Coombes travels to England in order to investigate an elusive family line. Armed with an illegible diary, she is determined to discover the identity of her mysterious ancestress. Distracted by an Elizabethan manor and unused to British country roads, Catherine runs her car into a ditch. Luckily, Nick Davidson, a handsome, hard-working local rides in on his tractor to save the day. As the down-to-earth manager of his family's estate, Nick also happens to be one of England's most eligible aristocrats.
Nick is certainly not the kind of man Catherine would fall for a man dogged by media and rumor. So why does she find the English lord so irresistible? Even though she can't overlook their differing values and beliefs, as she and Nick spend time together, their attraction deepens. While she battles through romantic turmoil, Catherine is beleaguered with far more sinister concerns: a series of unexplainable misfortunes that are not mere accidents. With her heart on the line, Catherine discovers her life is in jeopardy, and she has no idea who the perpetrator is but she has a growing suspicion that the danger might be connected to whatever secrets lie hidden in her ancestor's diary.
Nick is certainly not the kind of man Catherine would fall for a man dogged by media and rumor. So why does she find the English lord so irresistible? Even though she can't overlook their differing values and beliefs, as she and Nick spend time together, their attraction deepens. While she battles through romantic turmoil, Catherine is beleaguered with far more sinister concerns: a series of unexplainable misfortunes that are not mere accidents. With her heart on the line, Catherine discovers her life is in jeopardy, and she has no idea who the perpetrator is but she has a growing suspicion that the danger might be connected to whatever secrets lie hidden in her ancestor's diary.
311 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2019
30 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Paige Edwards
10 books693 followersPaige Edwards is an award-winning and best-selling author of inspirational romantic suspense novels. Due to her deep British roots, Paige’s books are often set in the UK, and she hops the pond whenever she gets the chance. When she isn’t writing, she and the hubs have converted their Sprinter van into a camper and are visiting all the US National Parks. Paige loves to connect with readers. You can reach her by visiting her website @authorpaigeedwards.com. Be sure to follow her on BookBub for the latest on sales:). [https://tinyurl.com/5n7euw68]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
March 9, 2019
Loved it! A modern day twist between contemporary romance and mystery/suspense with a touch of British royalty thrown in. Very well written with rich description and deep characterization. I look forward to the next book by this author.
March 21, 2019
This book was different than I expected. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but this book surprised me in some ways. First off, Catherine is visiting her brother in England. She is trying to solve the family mystery that genealogists have not been able to unravel. Armed with an illegible diary, a first name, and a general location she is set to find her family roots.
The book holds romance and suspense elements. Catherine and the local noble are drawn to each other from the moment they meet. Nick is the kind of man that makes romance fun to read. He is a hero who swoops in on his tractor to save the day. (Yes, tractor.) There are religious differences that are a concern and the romance doesn't run smoothly.
Catherine is also being targeted by a villain. This person wants to claim the inheritance that comes to the descendants of the ancestor mentioned above. You know from the start who the "bad guy" is. You also know what is being planned to take Catherine out of the running for the inheritance. You see the disaster about to happen and can't stop it, because it is a book and the events have been predetermined. Ugh!
I really enjoyed this book. This book contains religious aspects. Catherine and her brother are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The book holds romance and suspense elements. Catherine and the local noble are drawn to each other from the moment they meet. Nick is the kind of man that makes romance fun to read. He is a hero who swoops in on his tractor to save the day. (Yes, tractor.) There are religious differences that are a concern and the romance doesn't run smoothly.
Catherine is also being targeted by a villain. This person wants to claim the inheritance that comes to the descendants of the ancestor mentioned above. You know from the start who the "bad guy" is. You also know what is being planned to take Catherine out of the running for the inheritance. You see the disaster about to happen and can't stop it, because it is a book and the events have been predetermined. Ugh!
I really enjoyed this book. This book contains religious aspects. Catherine and her brother are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
March 19, 2019
First I have to say that this book is LDS fiction with lots of the story revolving around the LDS religion (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) . Praying, reading scripture and other things specific to the LDS religion are a prominent part of this story.
I love a good mystery/suspense story! Usually in a mystery/suspense book I am as clueless as the characters, waiting until the very end for the big reveal. But not this book. From the very beginning I had a clear idea of the "bad guy" and every single move they made. It made me feel both knowledgeable and crazy. I was always cringing and thinking: Don't talk on that phone! Don't go there! Don't do that! Look over there! Watch out! And those characters never, ever listened to me! 😖
The story had a good build in intensity and the story moved along with decent pacing. The religious aspects slowed the pacing down a bit but still, the build was there and I felt it. I liked the story, the concept and characters.
Content: some violence, human trafficking, death. Religious aspects mentioned above. Kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I love a good mystery/suspense story! Usually in a mystery/suspense book I am as clueless as the characters, waiting until the very end for the big reveal. But not this book. From the very beginning I had a clear idea of the "bad guy" and every single move they made. It made me feel both knowledgeable and crazy. I was always cringing and thinking: Don't talk on that phone! Don't go there! Don't do that! Look over there! Watch out! And those characters never, ever listened to me! 😖
The story had a good build in intensity and the story moved along with decent pacing. The religious aspects slowed the pacing down a bit but still, the build was there and I felt it. I liked the story, the concept and characters.
Content: some violence, human trafficking, death. Religious aspects mentioned above. Kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 5, 2019
A suspense novel centered around family history makes for one wild ride. It was fun to delve into the story of Catherine and Nick. My favorite scene was one involving a treasure box. I felt like the author captured so well the things that are important to us as individual and spiritual beings. If you are in the mood for romantic suspense, this is a good one!
March 21, 2019
Wow! This book was quite the ride and I really liked it. I enjoyed the English setting and terms. This book is centered in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' principles and they are mentioned throughout. There is a different twist of knowing the antagonist right from the start and their motives. It was maddening (in a good way) to see this interaction between the "bad" and the "good". It did take away a little suspense since we knew what would/could happen, but there was one scene where they had a "thought" of what to do to Catherine, and it didn't turn out how they wanted. This book has a great balance of suspense and romance. Nick is a dreamy to-the-rescue suitor. While Catherine is battling her feelings for him and wanting to date those of her faith. Things moved fast for them at the beginning, but I appreciated the development of their relationship as the book progressed. I did feel, at times, some scenes were not needed and I wanted more focus on the mystery of Catherine's family line, but all in all the book is well done.
March 15, 2019
This book was interesting and took many unexpected turns. I couldn’t put it down- I HAD to see how everything would play out and I read long into the night to finish it.
I loved the element of suspense with the danger/romance. There were some great supporting characters, and the third person perspective allowed the reader to get inside the heads of our two main protagonists and our antagonist as well. Religion is interwoven throughout this book, and plays a big role in the progression of the story. If you aren’t familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, some parts could be confusing.
Catherine and Nick were such fantastic main characters. I loved their romance and the deep love they felt for one another. I also loved her brother Jack and the fun sparring between the siblings.
Catherine is on a quest to find information about her family history while visiting her brother in the UK, but at times it really felt like that was only brought up when they needed to move the story along.
Getting inside the antagonist’s perspective lent some insight into the story, but I often felt like it took away much of the suspense since we always knew what the antagonist was thinking and planning.
There were many parts in the story where the danger reached a climax, only to end the chapter and start the next one with “Four days later”. It drove me nuts how often this seemed to happen! Just because the immediate danger or threat is over doesn’t mean we as readers don’t want to see how the characters react to and deal with the aftermath of a difficult situation.
I still really liked the overall story, and am interested to see what this author writes next. She definitely has a talent for keeping your attention and on the edge of your seat!
I loved the element of suspense with the danger/romance. There were some great supporting characters, and the third person perspective allowed the reader to get inside the heads of our two main protagonists and our antagonist as well. Religion is interwoven throughout this book, and plays a big role in the progression of the story. If you aren’t familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, some parts could be confusing.
Catherine and Nick were such fantastic main characters. I loved their romance and the deep love they felt for one another. I also loved her brother Jack and the fun sparring between the siblings.
Catherine is on a quest to find information about her family history while visiting her brother in the UK, but at times it really felt like that was only brought up when they needed to move the story along.
Getting inside the antagonist’s perspective lent some insight into the story, but I often felt like it took away much of the suspense since we always knew what the antagonist was thinking and planning.
There were many parts in the story where the danger reached a climax, only to end the chapter and start the next one with “Four days later”. It drove me nuts how often this seemed to happen! Just because the immediate danger or threat is over doesn’t mean we as readers don’t want to see how the characters react to and deal with the aftermath of a difficult situation.
I still really liked the overall story, and am interested to see what this author writes next. She definitely has a talent for keeping your attention and on the edge of your seat!
February 15, 2019
Edwards does a fabulous job engaging the reader. Fascinating details, fresh vocabulary, and a twisting plot that will pull you in till the end make Catherine's Intrigue worth the read.
March 24, 2019
Catherine's Intrigue is the debut novel of author Paige Edwards. This romantic mystery suspense novel takes place in England and includes a speedy romance, an English Lord, murder, and action. This book had so many elements that surprised me full of twists and turns, even though the reader knows who the "bad guy" is from the beginning.
The romance is sweet and I loved the hero, Nick, and I also loved main character Catherine who is a strong and a very likable female character who is no "Mary Sue".This novel's main character is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and has elements where aspects of the religion are discussed and shown to motivate Catherine in her life choices.
As Catherine investigates a family secret, her life is threatened and she finds herself is danger quite often. This novel also has the very serious subject matters of human trafficking, some violence, and mild kissing. At 311 pages, this novel with good pacing and exciting action will keep you reading non-stop all afternoon.
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The romance is sweet and I loved the hero, Nick, and I also loved main character Catherine who is a strong and a very likable female character who is no "Mary Sue".This novel's main character is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and has elements where aspects of the religion are discussed and shown to motivate Catherine in her life choices.
As Catherine investigates a family secret, her life is threatened and she finds herself is danger quite often. This novel also has the very serious subject matters of human trafficking, some violence, and mild kissing. At 311 pages, this novel with good pacing and exciting action will keep you reading non-stop all afternoon.
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March 25, 2025
Catherine Pressley-Coombes goes on what should be a simple journey to England—unraveling a family mystery tied to an old diary. However, she finds an adventure filled with romance, aristocratic charm, and a growing sense of danger. When she crashes her car in the countryside, she meets Nick Davidson, a rugged yet refined aristocrat whose down-to-earth nature contradicts his high-profile reputation. Though their values and beliefs differ, Catherine is drawn to him in ways she never expected.
As Catherine digs deeper into her ancestor’s past, strange and alarming incidents make it clear that someone doesn’t want her to uncover the truth. The author weaves romance with suspense, keeping readers intrigued as Catherine navigates both her heart and the hidden threats surrounding her. "Catherine’s Intrigue" is a captivating read for those who love romantic suspense.
As Catherine digs deeper into her ancestor’s past, strange and alarming incidents make it clear that someone doesn’t want her to uncover the truth. The author weaves romance with suspense, keeping readers intrigued as Catherine navigates both her heart and the hidden threats surrounding her. "Catherine’s Intrigue" is a captivating read for those who love romantic suspense.
March 18, 2019
It’s always fun when you find a brand new author that you love! Paige Edward’s debut novel Catherine’s Intrigue is amazing!
This book is romantic suspense. And, wow, it was super suspenseful! I loved every bit of it.
Catherine has just graduated from college. She’s gone to England to visit her brother and fulfill her mother’s last wish to find a missing ancestor. I really loved the way you could almost feel Catherine’s apprehension about telling Jack why she was really in England at the beginning. She knew he would be against her working on the family history problem. And he was….but she was determined. Catherine is a strong female character!
The way she and Nick meet was so fun! Jack had Catherine drive his car home from the airport where he picked her up, I have no idea why?! Catherine wasn’t used to driving on the wrong side of the road. And they ended up in the ditch. That’s where Nick comes in, saving her from the cold. Nick saves her so many times in this book. I loved that! What’s better than being saved by a handsome English gentleman?
The plot of this one is full of intrigue. I loved the way I never knew what was going to happen next. There were tons of things I never would have even imagined could have happened in this book. It really kept my attention.
Make sure you read this great book! You won’t regret it.
This book is romantic suspense. And, wow, it was super suspenseful! I loved every bit of it.
Catherine has just graduated from college. She’s gone to England to visit her brother and fulfill her mother’s last wish to find a missing ancestor. I really loved the way you could almost feel Catherine’s apprehension about telling Jack why she was really in England at the beginning. She knew he would be against her working on the family history problem. And he was….but she was determined. Catherine is a strong female character!
The way she and Nick meet was so fun! Jack had Catherine drive his car home from the airport where he picked her up, I have no idea why?! Catherine wasn’t used to driving on the wrong side of the road. And they ended up in the ditch. That’s where Nick comes in, saving her from the cold. Nick saves her so many times in this book. I loved that! What’s better than being saved by a handsome English gentleman?
The plot of this one is full of intrigue. I loved the way I never knew what was going to happen next. There were tons of things I never would have even imagined could have happened in this book. It really kept my attention.
Make sure you read this great book! You won’t regret it.
March 21, 2019
Debut author Paige Edwards has written an intriguing contemporary romantic suspense novel that readers will enjoy. The story is well-written with a captivating story and interesting characters. This novel will be sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats wondering what will happen next. One idea that might help readers better understand the main character is to better introduce her religion (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) earlier in the story. Also, the cover does not match the story; it tends to give the idea that the story is a thrilling murder mystery, where instead it is a romantic suspense novel. Overall readers will enjoy this edge of your seat contemporary romantic suspense.
Genre: romantic suspense, mystery, contemporary, LDS
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 1, 2019
Number of pages: 240
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: romantic suspense, mystery, contemporary, LDS
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 1, 2019
Number of pages: 240
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
June 29, 2021
I found myself very interested in the book from the beginning. My mom and I listened to it on a road trip, and it was a really good book to pass the time. My biggest complaint with it was the it was longer than it could have been. I wasn't super fond of the differing religions aspect -- those things always just work out too pat. I also felt like some of the villainous activities at the end could have easily been cut. There were other elements of the story that I felt like should have either had a bigger role, or been left out. All of that said, it was a fun book that did hold my interest, and I look forward to reading others by this author.
March 25, 2025
3.5 stars
March 7, 2019
I was so impressed with Paige Edwards's debut novel. The characters were well developed and I was attached to them from beginning to end. There were twists and turns that I wasn't expecting, which kept me fully engaged until the last page. I really hope there is a companion book in the works because I need to know what happens in Catherine's brothers' lives.
February 28, 2022
I really enjoyed the suspense throughout this book. While you know who the villain is, the suspense of not knowing how or when she will strike, or what the outcome will be, made this an edge-of-your-seat story.
I like Catherine’s tenacity and innate desire to do the right thing. I might have wanted to shake her a little when it came to Nick and their relationship (communication, people!), but I liked how hard she tried.
Nick is so good! Though I wanted to shake him a little, too (communication, people!). Especially because Catherine is clearly bringing up God and religion regularly because they matter to her, and then he acts shocked when she tells him as much. Come on, dude. At least he wisens up.
Major eye roll for Catherine’s brother. Pick where you stand, dude! I would have liked to see more support from her family. I get where they’re coming from, but relationships matter more than expectations.
I am a big fan of character development in books, and I think it’s so interesting that while we see developments happening with Catherine, Nick, and their relationship, we also see the villain “developing” into a worse kind of person. That was really interesting to watch!
Overall very suspenseful book, with great characters.
*Note/CW/TW: human trafficking; attempted murder; plots to kill; mentions of blood; thievery; some swoony kisses (but otherwise clean); LDS romance, with a lot of Mormon jargon and references (I believe this book can be enjoyed by those who aren’t members of the Church of z Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but be aware that there is a significant amount of jargon specific to the religion and members of it and if you aren’t familiar with the terminology, some things may be confusing)
Quotes I loved:
Chapter 8, marriage
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I like Catherine’s tenacity and innate desire to do the right thing. I might have wanted to shake her a little when it came to Nick and their relationship (communication, people!), but I liked how hard she tried.
Nick is so good! Though I wanted to shake him a little, too (communication, people!). Especially because Catherine is clearly bringing up God and religion regularly because they matter to her, and then he acts shocked when she tells him as much. Come on, dude. At least he wisens up.
Major eye roll for Catherine’s brother. Pick where you stand, dude! I would have liked to see more support from her family. I get where they’re coming from, but relationships matter more than expectations.
I am a big fan of character development in books, and I think it’s so interesting that while we see developments happening with Catherine, Nick, and their relationship, we also see the villain “developing” into a worse kind of person. That was really interesting to watch!
Overall very suspenseful book, with great characters.
*Note/CW/TW: human trafficking; attempted murder; plots to kill; mentions of blood; thievery; some swoony kisses (but otherwise clean); LDS romance, with a lot of Mormon jargon and references (I believe this book can be enjoyed by those who aren’t members of the Church of z Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but be aware that there is a significant amount of jargon specific to the religion and members of it and if you aren’t familiar with the terminology, some things may be confusing)
Quotes I loved:
Chapter 8, marriage
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 1, 2019
Ms. Edwards nails the intrigue and romance in this book, and impressed me with all the fascinating details of British high society. With a plot that kept me guessing and great emotion, this is a well-written debut!
February 1, 2021
This story really pulled me in. English countryside, intriguing premise, LDS references, interesting characters, and some British royalty, all put together well. I look forward to reading the author's next book, Deadly by Design, that has some of the same characters in it.
March 1, 2019
Such a fast paced book, with sweet romance, real emotion, and a twisty plot. I was particularly impressed with how well the author nailed both the American and British mindsets!
September 6, 2019
Looking at the cover I expected a suspense, but was surprised when I read the blurb to discover it's a romantic suspense, which is one of my favorite genres. As others mentioned this is LDS fiction and those not familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may not understand or appreciate some aspects of this book. My daughter has just been introduced to geneology this last week and so it was fun to read this at a time when it's so relevant in my family. I love a good mystery and was anxious to find out more about this Glorianne. I enjoyed the premise of the story and the suspense aspect. Yes we know who the bad guy is early on, but we don't know what they'll do or what lengths they will go to, so there is still that suspense. There were times things were moving too slow for me and other times I couldn't put it down. Nick and Catherine are great characters and I really enjoyed their relationship wasn't all based on attraction, but on a much deeper love and understanding of each other. This was a good read and I kind of hope this is a series. I'd love to read Jack and the twins stories as well.
July 28, 2021
Fabulous!!! I was caught up in this story from the very beginning. I loved the genealogy aspects as well as the intrigue, suspense, mystery and sweet romance. *Happy Sigh*
I listened to the audiobook of this one and really loved the narrator and the way that the story was brought to life.
If you haven't read this series, you are missing out! A story set in Scotland, royals, family history, danger, and the Presley-Coombes family. A win all around!
I've already enjoyed the next two books in this series and will patiently be waiting for any more books set around this family.
Content: Clean. Some mild suspense and mystery.
My own personal copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I listened to the audiobook of this one and really loved the narrator and the way that the story was brought to life.
If you haven't read this series, you are missing out! A story set in Scotland, royals, family history, danger, and the Presley-Coombes family. A win all around!
I've already enjoyed the next two books in this series and will patiently be waiting for any more books set around this family.
Content: Clean. Some mild suspense and mystery.
My own personal copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 3, 2023
I have very mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, I appreciated the story, the plot and the characters. On the other hand, I did not appreciate the close-mindedness of the main protagonist regarding religion (she belongs to LDS Church and cannot countenance marrying someone who does not belong to it either). There really was too much of a focus on religion for me, and the author relied too much on stereotypes (the Yankees in the UK, etc.).
I did appreciate the rest of the story, the setting, but all this talk about religion doesn't make me want to read the rest of the series unfortunately.
I did appreciate the rest of the story, the setting, but all this talk about religion doesn't make me want to read the rest of the series unfortunately.
August 18, 2019
This book was suspenseful and fun and even a little romantic. It was also religious and picturesque.
Catherine goes to London to try to find her ancestor's roots as her mother's dying wish. Her ancestor came to America fleeing her family decades before and there wasn't any record of her, so Catherine was trying to find any trace of evidence that she did in fact exist and who her family was.
She moves in with her workaholic brother and finds herself in trouble with someone who realizes how she's related to their family before she does and doesn't like it.
Catherine goes to London to try to find her ancestor's roots as her mother's dying wish. Her ancestor came to America fleeing her family decades before and there wasn't any record of her, so Catherine was trying to find any trace of evidence that she did in fact exist and who her family was.
She moves in with her workaholic brother and finds herself in trouble with someone who realizes how she's related to their family before she does and doesn't like it.
February 28, 2025
Catherine is a girl boss. If I could be like Catherine, I could take on the world. She's a gem and Nick is quite the catch. This novel is a can't put down, the action is too good read. I read this book at least a couple of times a year.
January 6, 2020
4.5 Stars
CATHERINE'S INTRIGUE is a story full of romance and suspense with an aspect of religion weaved in. The heroine is easily likable and the hero charming, with some wonderful family dynamics, a small-town feel, and a simmering suspense plot, it makes for an entertaining read from beginning to end! Definitely recommended to LDS romantic suspense fans!
I can't express how much I enjoyed these characters! Catherine is smart, beautiful, humble, and just a girl that anyone would love as a best friend. I loved her frankness and her passion. Nick is the perfect charming English gentleman, but with a down-to-earth personality and genuine warmth that you can't help fall for. I also adored Catherine's brother, Jack, and her best friend, Gillian, as well as some other fun characters.
The romance starts from an instantaneous attraction that is almost love-at-first-sight, but it progresses over time, which I appreciated. I also loved the crazy chemistry and the relationship between Catherine and Nick. It was seriously swoon worthy.
The religious aspect was a tough one. These types of stories, where one main character is very religious and another is not and that creates a separation between them, can be difficult to pull off. It is a fairy tale in so many ways and unrealistic, but in so many other ways the exact opposite as it does happen in reality. There were so many ways this could have gone and I don't want to give anything away. I thought the author managed the situation fairly well, but I know it won't be for everyone.
The suspense was an interesting counterpart to the romance. The villains are somewhat amateur, but a real threat. I could see how circumstances made someone feel threatened and then turn sinister. There was some very intense and somewhat violent moments towards the climatic conclusion. Overall, the suspense worked for me and drove the plot. I couldn't have asked for more.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Mix an American heiress in her own right who could be the girl-next-door and a charming English aristocrat, throw in plenty of romantic sparks, and some intense suspense and you have a story guaranteed to be enjoyable. You also end up with a new fan and a reader who can't wait for this debut author's next release!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the tour host/NetGalley, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
CATHERINE'S INTRIGUE is a story full of romance and suspense with an aspect of religion weaved in. The heroine is easily likable and the hero charming, with some wonderful family dynamics, a small-town feel, and a simmering suspense plot, it makes for an entertaining read from beginning to end! Definitely recommended to LDS romantic suspense fans!
I can't express how much I enjoyed these characters! Catherine is smart, beautiful, humble, and just a girl that anyone would love as a best friend. I loved her frankness and her passion. Nick is the perfect charming English gentleman, but with a down-to-earth personality and genuine warmth that you can't help fall for. I also adored Catherine's brother, Jack, and her best friend, Gillian, as well as some other fun characters.
The romance starts from an instantaneous attraction that is almost love-at-first-sight, but it progresses over time, which I appreciated. I also loved the crazy chemistry and the relationship between Catherine and Nick. It was seriously swoon worthy.
The religious aspect was a tough one. These types of stories, where one main character is very religious and another is not and that creates a separation between them, can be difficult to pull off. It is a fairy tale in so many ways and unrealistic, but in so many other ways the exact opposite as it does happen in reality. There were so many ways this could have gone and I don't want to give anything away. I thought the author managed the situation fairly well, but I know it won't be for everyone.
The suspense was an interesting counterpart to the romance. The villains are somewhat amateur, but a real threat. I could see how circumstances made someone feel threatened and then turn sinister. There was some very intense and somewhat violent moments towards the climatic conclusion. Overall, the suspense worked for me and drove the plot. I couldn't have asked for more.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Mix an American heiress in her own right who could be the girl-next-door and a charming English aristocrat, throw in plenty of romantic sparks, and some intense suspense and you have a story guaranteed to be enjoyable. You also end up with a new fan and a reader who can't wait for this debut author's next release!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the tour host/NetGalley, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
December 2, 2023
This book was very suspenseful. You know who the villain is from the start bc she has a pov too. So there is no major plot twists but the suspenseful scenes will get your heart pounding. It is also very romantic. Nick is smooooth. He pulls some slick moves on Catherine that she rather enjoys Bahah. And Catherine is really cool too. She was raised with three older brothers so she is one tough cookie. The Christian elements of this book remind me of Traci Hunter Abramson books. So if you want some good solid Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint faith and missionary work then read this book.
SPOILERS and book notes:
I love that the first time they meet Nick he rolls up on his tractor after Catherine and Jack hydroplane. Nick is an English farmer! Jack is a formula one engineeer in London. Coooool. and Catherine is an interior designer for historical homes!! He isn’t a farmer!! Nick is an earl!!! Lord Ansley. I love that nick noticed a light in cstherines eyes. Coming from her soul. He noticed her light of Christ shining in her eyes. Ooo Catherine is a sporty girl! Running dancing baseball! An nick bikes! I love that he is this filthy rich earl and he is the one perusing normal Catherine. Who has the light of Christ. Ooo Nick is smoooooth. He pulls some slick moves on Catherine and I like it. She is researching an ancestor (glorianne) that was born in the 1760. That is why she is there in England. She is LDS! So she wants a man of faith!! I love the tradition of the generations of earls of their marriage was a love match they would carve their names in this tree. Now Nick has a beautiful voice and is singing to everyone in a pub! Now they are fishing. And it’s a competition. I love how competitive Catherine is. I’m dead that she hooked is nose by accident when casting. That exact thing happened to my parents when they were dating. Except my mom hooked my dad’s back. oh man that cars broken brakes was an intense scene for sure. Oh man and then Catherine almost gets human trafficked!!! I like that Nick takes the missionary discussions. He finds the gospel. And saves her multiple times first from human traffickers and then from certain death. And then he proposes!!! And now they can get married in the temple and live hea.
SPOILERS and book notes:
I love that the first time they meet Nick he rolls up on his tractor after Catherine and Jack hydroplane. Nick is an English farmer! Jack is a formula one engineeer in London. Coooool. and Catherine is an interior designer for historical homes!! He isn’t a farmer!! Nick is an earl!!! Lord Ansley. I love that nick noticed a light in cstherines eyes. Coming from her soul. He noticed her light of Christ shining in her eyes. Ooo Catherine is a sporty girl! Running dancing baseball! An nick bikes! I love that he is this filthy rich earl and he is the one perusing normal Catherine. Who has the light of Christ. Ooo Nick is smoooooth. He pulls some slick moves on Catherine and I like it. She is researching an ancestor (glorianne) that was born in the 1760. That is why she is there in England. She is LDS! So she wants a man of faith!! I love the tradition of the generations of earls of their marriage was a love match they would carve their names in this tree. Now Nick has a beautiful voice and is singing to everyone in a pub! Now they are fishing. And it’s a competition. I love how competitive Catherine is. I’m dead that she hooked is nose by accident when casting. That exact thing happened to my parents when they were dating. Except my mom hooked my dad’s back. oh man that cars broken brakes was an intense scene for sure. Oh man and then Catherine almost gets human trafficked!!! I like that Nick takes the missionary discussions. He finds the gospel. And saves her multiple times first from human traffickers and then from certain death. And then he proposes!!! And now they can get married in the temple and live hea.
May 4, 2019
This book is better than the so-so title and the awful cover would lead one to believe. I read it because it got a good review from Traci Hunter Abramson, whose books I love. This book is set in England, involves clean romance and credible suspense. and has a genealogy mystery as one element--what's not to love? The story is great and the obstacles to true love are credible. It's the characters who are lacking a little bit--in some ways it's a fairytale with a princess and prince (obvious from the beginning that these two will end up together, somehow), a wicked witch and her evil henchman, a wise old counselor, and plucky, resourceful servants. The characters are only a little deeper than that, with the Good Guys being Very Good and the Bad Guys being Very Evil. Nevertheless, the plot is really fine and the dangers to the princess are credible. A few problems: Catherine is able to impress her sweetie's grouchy grandfather much too easily--I read the scene over a couple of times and couldn't see what she did that was so impressive. Also, Catherine and her brother are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; the brother lives in a small village in England, and when Catherine is attracted to the main guy in town, her brother says, "I don't know if he's a member of the Church." Anyone who lives in a small town like that would know every other Latter-day Saint within a many miles radius. Unfortunately, the genealogy problem gets solves "offstage," when I would have liked to see the process and the discovery, which are reported secondhand in the book. Some readers might think it incredible that a person could read the Book of Mormon, gain a testimony, and be baptized into the Church in the space of three or four weeks--that part I can testify from personal experience is possible. But will someone please, please tell the editors at Covenant Communications that readers are tired of physical romantic reactions feeling like an electric surge running through one's body? And that we are tired of men who take a woman's hand and rub the back of that hand by making circles with his thumb, which is supposed to be a great sensual experience? These have popped up in almost every romance by a Latter-day Saint writer that I have read, and especially those published by Covenant Communications, and it's getting really old. And can they call and editorial meeting and teach the editors (and perhaps the authors) the difference between council and counsel? Pretty please? Good debut, Paige Edwards--I look forward to more, but please get another cover artist and learn the difference between council and counsel.
March 20, 2019
We are told that we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, and while that is true, I can't help it (at least at first glance). Even now as I type this review I had to turn Catherine's Intrigue over because I REALLY don't like the cover. If you feel the same way, please don't give up on the book!
Sometimes a book description will really throw me too. And honestly, it should have an impact on what you decide to read, but if you find yourself cringing at the uber cheesiness of the back cover's first paragraph, please (once again) don't give up on this book!
Paige Edwards did a very nice job with her debut novel. The story was well crafted and intriguing. The loose ends were tied up nicely, and while there is violence, I would classify this as clean suspense as it wasn't overly graphic.
The romance is clean, and although it develops rather quickly, the story is spread out and we get to see the relationship build and become much more solid.
The religious aspect plays a significant role, but flows fairly well with the rest of the story.
Catherine's Intrigue is worth the read, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Sometimes a book description will really throw me too. And honestly, it should have an impact on what you decide to read, but if you find yourself cringing at the uber cheesiness of the back cover's first paragraph, please (once again) don't give up on this book!
Paige Edwards did a very nice job with her debut novel. The story was well crafted and intriguing. The loose ends were tied up nicely, and while there is violence, I would classify this as clean suspense as it wasn't overly graphic.
The romance is clean, and although it develops rather quickly, the story is spread out and we get to see the relationship build and become much more solid.
The religious aspect plays a significant role, but flows fairly well with the rest of the story.
Catherine's Intrigue is worth the read, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
March 21, 2019
Catherine is intrigued with family history and old historic homes and their designs. She travels to England to visit her brother so she can work on their family history and find clues in locating a missing ancestor. Her family has spent generations researching their missing heritage but to no avail.
This story had a good, interesting pace with a strong female lead character. Despite opposition and danger, she keeps going! I also enjoyed the other main characters Nick and Jack (her brother). Since this story is set in England the characters use alot of British terms, which sometimes made it difficult to to understand what they were talking about, but I caught on quickly. I loved reading about the homes in that area and descriptions of the countryside.
I enjoyed this historical suspense with clean romance novel. It is also a LDS fiction which means some religious beliefs and references to "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints" are mentioned throughout the book.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
This story had a good, interesting pace with a strong female lead character. Despite opposition and danger, she keeps going! I also enjoyed the other main characters Nick and Jack (her brother). Since this story is set in England the characters use alot of British terms, which sometimes made it difficult to to understand what they were talking about, but I caught on quickly. I loved reading about the homes in that area and descriptions of the countryside.
I enjoyed this historical suspense with clean romance novel. It is also a LDS fiction which means some religious beliefs and references to "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints" are mentioned throughout the book.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2020
I read this book after I’d read Deadly By Design which follows on from this story- so had already been introduced to many of the characters, I have been wanting to read Catherine & Nick’s story.
Again, some of the usage of English words felt a bit misplaced, but I’d agree most readers won’t notice. Overwhelming this author does an incredible job of recreating the UK and it’s places and people. I really enjoyed the locations and plot for this story, and it was very cleverly executed.
I found the inclusion of human trafficking well done, highlighting the issue that it is today. One thing I would have liked to see- would be an acknowledgement of the post-trauma one would be dealing with after the intense situations Catherine was exposed to. The story kind of finishes without “going there”, which would have felt a little more realistic.
I am so excited to read the next story about a Pressley-Coombes sibling! Paige Edwards writes a compelling and packed full adventure, with a beautiful romance interwoven throughout. The pace is consistent and keeps the pages turning.
March 21, 2019
It's always refreshing to see a contemporary romance set in England with all the right vernacular and context. With a light plug of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint beliefs, a taste of English high-society romance, and enough near-death/contemporary horrors to satisfy action lovers, "Catherine's Intrigue" is a good mix of genres. Paige Edwards took an 'intriguing' story, and expressed it well, especially for her first novel.
I didn't give it 5 stars because I skipped all the scenes from Lady Theodoria Hadley's perspective during my first read through. I included them for my second read, but found they're filled with spoilers galore. (By the way, a second read scores high on my account, but my #1 pet peeve is dramatic irony). Skip her sections, and save yourself the trouble of waiting till chapter 50 for the main characters to catch on what you learn in chapter 2. I think it's much more fun and interesting to learn with the main characters, but maybe that's just me.
I didn't give it 5 stars because I skipped all the scenes from Lady Theodoria Hadley's perspective during my first read through. I included them for my second read, but found they're filled with spoilers galore. (By the way, a second read scores high on my account, but my #1 pet peeve is dramatic irony). Skip her sections, and save yourself the trouble of waiting till chapter 50 for the main characters to catch on what you learn in chapter 2. I think it's much more fun and interesting to learn with the main characters, but maybe that's just me.
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