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Marstone #3
Playing with Fire
France 1793
Phoebe's future holds little more than the prospect of a tedious season of balls and routs, forever in the shadow of her glamorous cousin and under the critical eye of her shrewish aunt. She yearns for a useful life, and a love match like her parents', if such a thing could ever be possible for an unwanted, poor relation.
But first she has to endure the hazards of a return home through revolutionary France -- a nation suddenly at war with the English. Her aunt's imperious insensitivity soon arouses a suspicion that quickly develops into mortal danger. Can a stranger encountered on the road prove to be their unlikely salvation?
Alex uses many names, and is used to working alone. A small act of kindness leads him to assist Phoebe's party, even though it might come at the expense of his own, vital mission in France. Ignoring his own peril, he is willing to risk all in the hope of getting them safely back to England. Unexpectedly, as he and Phoebe face many dangers together, he finds his affections growing towards the resourceful and quick-witted red-head, despite their hopeless social differences.
Even if they escape France alive, many troubles may still lie ahead.
Playing with Fire is Book 3 in the Marstone series, but can also be read as a standalone novel with no cliffhangers.
Phoebe's future holds little more than the prospect of a tedious season of balls and routs, forever in the shadow of her glamorous cousin and under the critical eye of her shrewish aunt. She yearns for a useful life, and a love match like her parents', if such a thing could ever be possible for an unwanted, poor relation.
But first she has to endure the hazards of a return home through revolutionary France -- a nation suddenly at war with the English. Her aunt's imperious insensitivity soon arouses a suspicion that quickly develops into mortal danger. Can a stranger encountered on the road prove to be their unlikely salvation?
Alex uses many names, and is used to working alone. A small act of kindness leads him to assist Phoebe's party, even though it might come at the expense of his own, vital mission in France. Ignoring his own peril, he is willing to risk all in the hope of getting them safely back to England. Unexpectedly, as he and Phoebe face many dangers together, he finds his affections growing towards the resourceful and quick-witted red-head, despite their hopeless social differences.
Even if they escape France alive, many troubles may still lie ahead.
Playing with Fire is Book 3 in the Marstone series, but can also be read as a standalone novel with no cliffhangers.
490 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2020
242 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Jayne Davis
20 books123 followersI was born in England, near the Welsh border, and lived in several places while I was growing up, including a spell in Singapore and in Malta. Malta was where I got hooked on historical romances - my parents rented a furnished house, and the owners had left most of their books there, including a whole set of Georgette Heyer novels.
Loving Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, I longed to write similar novels myself. I toyed with the idea several times over the years, but real life intervened and I've had several careers, including as a non-fiction author under another name. That wasn’t quite the writing career I had in mind…
So here I am, finally publishing my stories. I hope you enjoy them!
Loving Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, I longed to write similar novels myself. I toyed with the idea several times over the years, but real life intervened and I've had several careers, including as a non-fiction author under another name. That wasn’t quite the writing career I had in mind…
So here I am, finally publishing my stories. I hope you enjoy them!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 6, 2020
2.75 stars.
This was ok. It was quite long and also had quite a few subplots; however, at some point it started to drag.
I liked the historical details of this time period in France, and I liked the heroine. She was wonderful and fierce, without having to be a shrew to know her own self worth. I also really loved her uncle. He was a genuinely decent man, owning up to his mistakes and making amends where he could.
However, the aunt in this story is too much to be believed. She's a terrible excuse for a human being and had absolutely no redeeming qualities. The cousin, while not as bad, was not a nice human being either. I felt bad for the poor comte and Georges, the only decent people of the lot.
Then there's the issue of the hero's parentage. This book made me doubly glad that I chose to skip the first book of the series. I know that illegitimate children were common in those days, but it's nothing I want to read about. It was no fault of the hero's own of course, but it definitely puts a bad light on the kind of life he's been living as a spy. What I'd like to read about is an illegitimate son refusing to sleep around because he might be fathering his own illegitimate children. There have been a couple of HR books featuring such heroes, and of course Jon Snow in the Game of Thrones series was one too. I admire that in a character, but unfortunately the hero in this story didn't seem to care that he might be inflicting that kind of life on some poor child.
Unfortunately this book wasn't my favourite of the author. One for for an awesome heroine, one star for her uncle and young cousin, Georges, a quarter star for her positive relationships (albeit a bit superficial) with other women, a quarter star for the lack of OP drama, and a quarter star for the historical details.
This was ok. It was quite long and also had quite a few subplots; however, at some point it started to drag.
I liked the historical details of this time period in France, and I liked the heroine. She was wonderful and fierce, without having to be a shrew to know her own self worth. I also really loved her uncle. He was a genuinely decent man, owning up to his mistakes and making amends where he could.
However, the aunt in this story is too much to be believed. She's a terrible excuse for a human being and had absolutely no redeeming qualities. The cousin, while not as bad, was not a nice human being either. I felt bad for the poor comte and Georges, the only decent people of the lot.
Then there's the issue of the hero's parentage. This book made me doubly glad that I chose to skip the first book of the series. I know that illegitimate children were common in those days, but it's nothing I want to read about. It was no fault of the hero's own of course, but it definitely puts a bad light on the kind of life he's been living as a spy. What I'd like to read about is an illegitimate son refusing to sleep around because he might be fathering his own illegitimate children. There have been a couple of HR books featuring such heroes, and of course Jon Snow in the Game of Thrones series was one too. I admire that in a character, but unfortunately the hero in this story didn't seem to care that he might be inflicting that kind of life on some poor child.
Unfortunately this book wasn't my favourite of the author. One for for an awesome heroine, one star for her uncle and young cousin, Georges, a quarter star for her positive relationships (albeit a bit superficial) with other women, a quarter star for the lack of OP drama, and a quarter star for the historical details.
June 25, 2020
This story was jam packed, full of adventure and intrigue. It also has a gentle romance between two very engaging characters. Phoebe was so brave, resourceful and intelligent, despite being the put upon poor relation. The action begins in France in 1793, not a good time to be an outspoken aristocrat. There were times I could cheerfully have gagged her aunt! Luckily Alex comes to their aid but their troubles are not over. The character of Alex had many of the same qualities of Phoebe, he seemed so capable and commanding but I liked that he let Phoebe make her own decisions. This will keep you reading until the end, just when you think everything is running smoothly, something else happens. I’m really looking forward to the next in the series.
June 5, 2020
I very much enjoyed Playing with Fire and almost gave it 5 starts, but I hardly ever give a book 5 stars, so 4 it is. Phoebe is one of my all-time favorite female lead characters and Alex is up there in the ranks of favorite male characters as well (dashing, considerate, and honorable). Phoebe is level-headed and even-tempered, as well as humble, but still with a strong sense of self, which I really admire. I especially enjoyed Phoebe’s handling of difficult situations. I also really enjoyed the mantua-maker scenes and Phoebe’s increasing self-confidence. Perhaps the highest praise for the book I can give is that I read it weeks ago and the characters and story are still with me, even though I read one Regency romance every 2-3 days and thus they tend to run together and I lose track of the characters and the plots. That isn't try in this case. The characters and plot are very memorable.
November 13, 2020
This was another of the author’s historical novels with a romantic subplot. The book was not bad, but it had a strange structure.
The first part (about 25%) thrums with tension, and the pace is very fast. The action takes place in France in 1793, soon after the French revolution. The country is boiling with suspicion and uncertainty. Every aristocrat is an enemy. After France declared the war on England, every Englishman is considered a spy.
Our hero and heroine, both English, are caught in the middle of this cauldron of danger, as they try to find their way safely out of France and back to England. There are spies and smugglers involved, and the story has every promise to be a thriller.
Then the heroine gets back to England, and the action … stops. No thriller manifested. The heroine finds herself a dressmaker. She attends balls. She contemplates marriage. There is still some spying involved, but strictly in the background, as an afterthought. This second part is the longest and the most boring.
The third part, where the resolution takes place, is short. There is a splash of peril again, and the HEA in the end, but overall, the protagonists’ happy ending is not nearly as satisfying as in other romances. Maybe because after the first part of the novel, our would-be-lovers spend their time apart, thinking about each other with longing but never meeting again until the very end. What kind of a romance is that?
The first part (about 25%) thrums with tension, and the pace is very fast. The action takes place in France in 1793, soon after the French revolution. The country is boiling with suspicion and uncertainty. Every aristocrat is an enemy. After France declared the war on England, every Englishman is considered a spy.
Our hero and heroine, both English, are caught in the middle of this cauldron of danger, as they try to find their way safely out of France and back to England. There are spies and smugglers involved, and the story has every promise to be a thriller.
Then the heroine gets back to England, and the action … stops. No thriller manifested. The heroine finds herself a dressmaker. She attends balls. She contemplates marriage. There is still some spying involved, but strictly in the background, as an afterthought. This second part is the longest and the most boring.
The third part, where the resolution takes place, is short. There is a splash of peril again, and the HEA in the end, but overall, the protagonists’ happy ending is not nearly as satisfying as in other romances. Maybe because after the first part of the novel, our would-be-lovers spend their time apart, thinking about each other with longing but never meeting again until the very end. What kind of a romance is that?
June 24, 2020
Wow! What an amazing story! I’ve always loved Jayne Davis, but this has to be her best book yet! And it felt like two books in one, as there were two main story arcs interconnected, each enthralling. It was so exciting I didn’t want to put it down, and I read almost straight through for two days. The hero and heroine have such attractive personalities, and their journey to get to know each other was the best kind of romance - funny, interesting, sweetly romantic and subtly sexy. The story is also a dramatic one, with lots of adventure that feels exciting but also realistic, with the main characters at the centre of the story, the best kind!
August 4, 2021
A good story.
More espionage than I like but the story was good. Also did not get how Alex was so reluctant to say anything to the heroine. I mean it was obvious she cared for him. That was more drawn out than necessary. One other thing for those who read the book that introduced Will before he became Lord Marstone. Will had been human and approachable and his relationship with his wife very close. In this book he was distant and calculated with him being in London and his wife in Cornwall and literally no mention or contact with her or their children. Just seemed uncharacteristic from their history. Seemed very much like power and control went to his head.
More espionage than I like but the story was good. Also did not get how Alex was so reluctant to say anything to the heroine. I mean it was obvious she cared for him. That was more drawn out than necessary. One other thing for those who read the book that introduced Will before he became Lord Marstone. Will had been human and approachable and his relationship with his wife very close. In this book he was distant and calculated with him being in London and his wife in Cornwall and literally no mention or contact with her or their children. Just seemed uncharacteristic from their history. Seemed very much like power and control went to his head.
July 10, 2020
Well, that was awesome. Jayne Davis is my favourite kind of author, partly because I never know what she’s going to come up with next and partly because she allows the story to expand and grow and unfurl its petals in whatever way feels right. So many authors constrain their characters to conform to the needs of the plot, but Davis’s tales always feel completely natural and organic, as if they were always meant to be. This one starts with a tense escape from revolutionary France, morphs into a first London season, complete with visits to the mantua-maker, drives in the park and assorted suitors, veers off into a brilliantly funny piece of trickery worthy of Georgette Heyer, lurches back into tension again and then ends with a delicious romantic denouement. Utterly wonderful.
Here’s the premise: Phoebe Deane is the little-regarded poor relation, living with her aunt and uncle, who are French emigres. When her aunt and cousin decide to return to their chateau to recover some possessions, Phoebe accompanies them, but it’s 1793, the revolution is in full swing, aristocrats are not welcome and Phoebe can’t make her aunt understand the urgency of escaping as quickly as possible. Her aunt’s arrogant manners soon get them into trouble, but they find help from an unlikely source.
Alex Westbrook finds himself drawn to help the family, even though it might hamper his own secret mission in France. But he finds that Phoebe is quick-witted and resourceful enough to be a trusted ally, and more than willing to take risks when necessary. So begins an unlikely friendship, but can it ever be anything more? Well, we can guess the answer to that, but there’s a long and winding road to reach it.
I confess that for the first few chapters, I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book. The difficulties in France are so intense and so relentless, that it almost felt like Game of Thrones. What horrible event was coming next? Even though I knew that the protagonists would survive (because romance) it was a little too intense for comfort. However, once Phoebe reached London and dived into the more familiar ground of preparations for the season, it was a lot more comfortable. Phoebe’s a fantastic character - smart and plucky, with a ton of initiative. Sometimes she seemed almost too smart, and a bit too lucky, but that was OK. Alex - well, who could not like Alex? A great hero, who risks everything to save the mysterious redhead, and treats her like a real person not a helpless female who needs a man to tell her what to do and to protect her.
Of the side-characters, some we’ve seen before (this is the third book in the Marstone series), although it’s not necessary to have read them all. I very much like that the three books are spread out over about twenty years, so this one acts as an extended epilogue to the earlier books, for those who enjoy such catchups. The new characters tended to fall into the helpful yokels or villainous villains categories, although some were just plain irritating (Comtesse de Calvac, I’m looking at you). Phoebe’s uncle, the Comte, who had been distant and uninterested before, suddenly and implausibly becomes a sort of fairy-goduncle to Phoebe, and naturally the dowdy poor relation instantly becomes an attractive and desirable potential bride. This was great fun.
But of course, things soon go pear-shaped and we’re off into all sorts of unexpected twists and turns, and all the time the romance is simmering on the back burner, never ever forgotten and gradually coming to the fore. The ending is lovely and perfectly in keeping with the various characters involved, and if some things seemed unnecessarily convoluted, it was all too much fun to quibble over. The only slight complaint I have is that towards the end, some of the dramatic events happen off-screen. I would like to have seen them up close. But it’s a trivial point.
A wonderful read, whether you like thriller-type tension, something more traditional or a quirky mixture - this book has it all! Not to mention a lovely romance, with some swoon-worthy kisses (and nothing more than that). As always with this author, the writing is top-notch with an effortless evocation of the era, in both England and France. Five stars.
Here’s the premise: Phoebe Deane is the little-regarded poor relation, living with her aunt and uncle, who are French emigres. When her aunt and cousin decide to return to their chateau to recover some possessions, Phoebe accompanies them, but it’s 1793, the revolution is in full swing, aristocrats are not welcome and Phoebe can’t make her aunt understand the urgency of escaping as quickly as possible. Her aunt’s arrogant manners soon get them into trouble, but they find help from an unlikely source.
Alex Westbrook finds himself drawn to help the family, even though it might hamper his own secret mission in France. But he finds that Phoebe is quick-witted and resourceful enough to be a trusted ally, and more than willing to take risks when necessary. So begins an unlikely friendship, but can it ever be anything more? Well, we can guess the answer to that, but there’s a long and winding road to reach it.
I confess that for the first few chapters, I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book. The difficulties in France are so intense and so relentless, that it almost felt like Game of Thrones. What horrible event was coming next? Even though I knew that the protagonists would survive (because romance) it was a little too intense for comfort. However, once Phoebe reached London and dived into the more familiar ground of preparations for the season, it was a lot more comfortable. Phoebe’s a fantastic character - smart and plucky, with a ton of initiative. Sometimes she seemed almost too smart, and a bit too lucky, but that was OK. Alex - well, who could not like Alex? A great hero, who risks everything to save the mysterious redhead, and treats her like a real person not a helpless female who needs a man to tell her what to do and to protect her.
Of the side-characters, some we’ve seen before (this is the third book in the Marstone series), although it’s not necessary to have read them all. I very much like that the three books are spread out over about twenty years, so this one acts as an extended epilogue to the earlier books, for those who enjoy such catchups. The new characters tended to fall into the helpful yokels or villainous villains categories, although some were just plain irritating (Comtesse de Calvac, I’m looking at you). Phoebe’s uncle, the Comte, who had been distant and uninterested before, suddenly and implausibly becomes a sort of fairy-goduncle to Phoebe, and naturally the dowdy poor relation instantly becomes an attractive and desirable potential bride. This was great fun.
But of course, things soon go pear-shaped and we’re off into all sorts of unexpected twists and turns, and all the time the romance is simmering on the back burner, never ever forgotten and gradually coming to the fore. The ending is lovely and perfectly in keeping with the various characters involved, and if some things seemed unnecessarily convoluted, it was all too much fun to quibble over. The only slight complaint I have is that towards the end, some of the dramatic events happen off-screen. I would like to have seen them up close. But it’s a trivial point.
A wonderful read, whether you like thriller-type tension, something more traditional or a quirky mixture - this book has it all! Not to mention a lovely romance, with some swoon-worthy kisses (and nothing more than that). As always with this author, the writing is top-notch with an effortless evocation of the era, in both England and France. Five stars.
June 29, 2025
Jayne Davis has nailed another historical. This one has a bit more history than romance, but she excels at blending the two without overwhelming the reader with historical facts.
There are villains to despise, dislike and those that you are not sad to find lying outside the taverns where they have attempted to escape capture, and those you are pleased to see thwarted.
I hope that in the next Marstone adventure, we might finally learn who the spy is in the Foreign Office, which is the only disappointment in this book. However, that tidbit left out assures us that we will find Will, The Earl of Marstone, in the next one.
If you haven't read them in order, you might find yourself lost at times when you discover the details that were left hanging in Sauce for the Gander. The Marstone series is the first I've read by Ms. Davis, but I'm learning that the hanging tidbits in one book will be revealed in the next one. They seem, at first and for the most part, unrelated to the romance, but if you are a deep reader, you're left a bit irritated that everything wasn't buttoned up. Now I know just to wait for the next in the series.
I know I haven't provided you with many details about this book, but it's challenging to do so without giving away spoilers, which I try to avoid. This book begins in France, where the danger of being in the wrong place at the wrong time is more prevalent than not. Our heroine is another of Davis' strong-minded young women who defy the norm and are bored by the proprieties of society.
Alex is the best type of hero, the one who isn't looking for pretty arm candy and is as dumb as the proverbial rock, and can only speak regarding fripperies and ballrooms.
I became familiar with Jayne Davis and her expert knowledge of the Georgian Era through a Romance group for authors, and am glad I did. She has the research skills to elevate her writing to the next level, not just a feel-good romance, set in the era of ballrooms, soirees, and glittering candlelight.
There are villains to despise, dislike and those that you are not sad to find lying outside the taverns where they have attempted to escape capture, and those you are pleased to see thwarted.
I hope that in the next Marstone adventure, we might finally learn who the spy is in the Foreign Office, which is the only disappointment in this book. However, that tidbit left out assures us that we will find Will, The Earl of Marstone, in the next one.
If you haven't read them in order, you might find yourself lost at times when you discover the details that were left hanging in Sauce for the Gander. The Marstone series is the first I've read by Ms. Davis, but I'm learning that the hanging tidbits in one book will be revealed in the next one. They seem, at first and for the most part, unrelated to the romance, but if you are a deep reader, you're left a bit irritated that everything wasn't buttoned up. Now I know just to wait for the next in the series.
I know I haven't provided you with many details about this book, but it's challenging to do so without giving away spoilers, which I try to avoid. This book begins in France, where the danger of being in the wrong place at the wrong time is more prevalent than not. Our heroine is another of Davis' strong-minded young women who defy the norm and are bored by the proprieties of society.
Alex is the best type of hero, the one who isn't looking for pretty arm candy and is as dumb as the proverbial rock, and can only speak regarding fripperies and ballrooms.
I became familiar with Jayne Davis and her expert knowledge of the Georgian Era through a Romance group for authors, and am glad I did. She has the research skills to elevate her writing to the next level, not just a feel-good romance, set in the era of ballrooms, soirees, and glittering candlelight.
June 27, 2020
A spy comes in from the cold
I love Jayne Davis' newest Marstone series novel. Playing with Fire is a fabulous spy story as well as a delicious slow-burn romance. Hero Alex Westbrook is a spy for England, carrying g out a dangerous mission on French soil, when his life and career intersect with Phoebe Deane, whose overbearing aunt and cousin have dragged her on a senseless trip to their former French estate. When the aunt flaunts her status as the Comtesse de Calvac, French revolutionary officials accuse the party of spying, and the real spy, Alex, intervenes. The aunt is loudly clueless, the cousin a silly pretty twit, and it is Phoebe's quick thinking, careful observation, and spot-on deductions that keep Alex' mission safe as he escorts the Calvac family safely out of France. From there, the fallout from Alex's mission continues to involve Phoebe - with family, society, and politics making it all more complicated. The book is full of stealth, secrets, codes, criminals, double dealing and entrapment - political and personal. Who knew that snobby English society could be as full of factions, gossip, and trickery as the world of the French Revolution? Alex is a master spy, grown tired of the lonely and dangerous life. Phoebe negotiates political spy craft and the London social season equally well, as she captures Alex' heart - but will he risk proposing? (A voluntary ARC review)
I love Jayne Davis' newest Marstone series novel. Playing with Fire is a fabulous spy story as well as a delicious slow-burn romance. Hero Alex Westbrook is a spy for England, carrying g out a dangerous mission on French soil, when his life and career intersect with Phoebe Deane, whose overbearing aunt and cousin have dragged her on a senseless trip to their former French estate. When the aunt flaunts her status as the Comtesse de Calvac, French revolutionary officials accuse the party of spying, and the real spy, Alex, intervenes. The aunt is loudly clueless, the cousin a silly pretty twit, and it is Phoebe's quick thinking, careful observation, and spot-on deductions that keep Alex' mission safe as he escorts the Calvac family safely out of France. From there, the fallout from Alex's mission continues to involve Phoebe - with family, society, and politics making it all more complicated. The book is full of stealth, secrets, codes, criminals, double dealing and entrapment - political and personal. Who knew that snobby English society could be as full of factions, gossip, and trickery as the world of the French Revolution? Alex is a master spy, grown tired of the lonely and dangerous life. Phoebe negotiates political spy craft and the London social season equally well, as she captures Alex' heart - but will he risk proposing? (A voluntary ARC review)
April 14, 2021
Well, I do enjoy a good eighteenth-century romance, and this one was no exception. Our young couple are a likeable pair in what I found to be an enthralling story. Phoebe and Alex were delightful characters, and I even enjoyed (although I'm not sure that 'enjoyed' is the right word!) the unkind aunt because the author portrayed her very well as an unlikeable person! Don't we all love a villain occasionally!
I also enjoyed meeting up with characters from Ms Davis's other books in this series (Will Marstone, for instance), although perhaps the author could have reminded us with a little more backstory about who they were and what significance they held - it has been quite a while since I read Sauce For The Gander, for instance, so it took me a while to remember the details.
It is a big book at 500 or so pages, so not a one-off cosy afternoon's reading in front of the fire, (ha ha despite it's title!) and there were a couple of passages that flagged a little, but even so this was a most enjoyable adventure. An adult read, for there are references to violence, including sexual violence, but there is nothing explicit.
If you like your romance reading to be full of adventure, with quick-witted heroines and rather nice heroes, with an added touch of well-researched historical background, this one is for you - it is a stand-alone, no need to have read the other two in the series, although I would recommend that you do.
Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
I also enjoyed meeting up with characters from Ms Davis's other books in this series (Will Marstone, for instance), although perhaps the author could have reminded us with a little more backstory about who they were and what significance they held - it has been quite a while since I read Sauce For The Gander, for instance, so it took me a while to remember the details.
It is a big book at 500 or so pages, so not a one-off cosy afternoon's reading in front of the fire, (ha ha despite it's title!) and there were a couple of passages that flagged a little, but even so this was a most enjoyable adventure. An adult read, for there are references to violence, including sexual violence, but there is nothing explicit.
If you like your romance reading to be full of adventure, with quick-witted heroines and rather nice heroes, with an added touch of well-researched historical background, this one is for you - it is a stand-alone, no need to have read the other two in the series, although I would recommend that you do.
Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
July 31, 2021
Phoebe Deane as the poor relation to the de Calvac's as her aunt continuously reminded her, not her uncle by marriage though... the Comte de Calvac treated her as family and gave her an allowance which her aunt appropriated for herself and for her daughter, Phoebe's cousin, Hélène. The three women and their retainers were caught up in France during the outbreak of the Revolution and due to the aunt's overt uncompromising and entitlement demeanor along the way in a country rejecting the aristocracy... a simple trip to their French estate to gather forgotten keepsakes turned into a nightmare. Enter Alexander Westbrook a reluctant rescuer given the Comtesse's cavalier attitude... he was also a spy for the English Crown and was accompanied by a French aristocrat of dubious alliance ~ friend or foe?... royalist or revolutionary? Phoebe's quick wits and pragmatism helped save their lives yet jeopardised her reputation to her great mortification just when she had been experiencing a real Season in London (thanks to her fair and just uncle with her dress allowance fully restored thus no more cast~offs from the fair Hélène plus confidence~inducing clothes made for a redhead) as well as being courted by the Marquess of Harlford. During their time as allies in France, Phoebe and Westbrook had formed a bond against her obnoxious aunt and against those unable to direct their hatred to the real culprits and thus an unbridled murderous prejudice against all aristocrats that characterized the Reign of Terror. So when both of them were in England, Phoebe was presented a conundrum ~ money and title or True Love?... given that Westbrook was also constrained by his own accident of birth. A good prose peppered with spiced layers to make the story a fuller treat.
August 10, 2025
Fabulous plot--hard to put down. I love watching the main characters have to figure out complex situations on the fly.
I am very impressed by what the book said about the role of women. The strength of a woman isn't shown because she refuses to be left behind. She is truly strong because she wisely evaluates what she can contribute, whether that means to step into danger or to hold the fort while someone else does.
And women should be allowed to make their own decisions. She wants to learn to drive a team of horses. One man tells her that she shouldn't worry about that. Another man goes and gets an easy set of horses and talks her through it. Sound good? It was well-intentioned, but also condescending. Our hero asks what she wants. In case you are curious, our hero knows she has a little experience and brings a good set of horses (not fancy) and asks if she wants to drive and whether she wants to just practice or if she wants instruction. He trusts her to know her own limits.
It is difficult to describe, but so well done.
I am very impressed by what the book said about the role of women. The strength of a woman isn't shown because she refuses to be left behind. She is truly strong because she wisely evaluates what she can contribute, whether that means to step into danger or to hold the fort while someone else does.
And women should be allowed to make their own decisions. She wants to learn to drive a team of horses. One man tells her that she shouldn't worry about that. Another man goes and gets an easy set of horses and talks her through it. Sound good? It was well-intentioned, but also condescending. Our hero asks what she wants. In case you are curious, our hero knows she has a little experience and brings a good set of horses (not fancy) and asks if she wants to drive and whether she wants to just practice or if she wants instruction. He trusts her to know her own limits.
It is difficult to describe, but so well done.
December 5, 2020
Wonderful Book
This book is a very big cut above most historical romance books, and kind of in a class by itself. It’s like a suspenseful, action-packed historical action adventure combined with a regency romance. The characters and dialogue are pitch-perfect. It’s a clean romance without a single insipid moment, which is a rarity these days. The heroine is a wonder - smart and resourceful, coming up with one brilliant plan after another without ever seeming unrealistic or cartoony. It’s wonderful to see a hero and heroine working together as such a great team. This was an un-putdownable read. Also, and I appreciate this, it was a good long read, at almost 500 pages, with never a dull moment. I could read another 500 pages about the further adventures of Alex and Phoebe - I loved them that much. I will read all this author’s other books—if they’re half as good as this one they’ll still be better than 90% of the other books I’ve been reading, and I read almost a book a day since the pandemic started. I have Kindle Unlimited, and the book was free to read, but it’s a keeper, so I turned around and bought a copy to keep forever.
This book is a very big cut above most historical romance books, and kind of in a class by itself. It’s like a suspenseful, action-packed historical action adventure combined with a regency romance. The characters and dialogue are pitch-perfect. It’s a clean romance without a single insipid moment, which is a rarity these days. The heroine is a wonder - smart and resourceful, coming up with one brilliant plan after another without ever seeming unrealistic or cartoony. It’s wonderful to see a hero and heroine working together as such a great team. This was an un-putdownable read. Also, and I appreciate this, it was a good long read, at almost 500 pages, with never a dull moment. I could read another 500 pages about the further adventures of Alex and Phoebe - I loved them that much. I will read all this author’s other books—if they’re half as good as this one they’ll still be better than 90% of the other books I’ve been reading, and I read almost a book a day since the pandemic started. I have Kindle Unlimited, and the book was free to read, but it’s a keeper, so I turned around and bought a copy to keep forever.
December 5, 2020
If you like your period romances to contain plenty of adventure, or if you like your adventure stories to have a strong romantic flavour, this is a book for you. Phoebe Dean is traveling through Revolutionary France with her unpleasant aunt, whose arrogant ways nearly get the group arrested. Intervention by a pair of fellow-travellers only throws them into more adventure, though. Fortunately, Phoebe is brave and quick-witted, a match for the adventurer Alex.
This is the third of the Marstone series, and it was a pleasure to be reunited with old friends and introduced to new ones. Alex actually has a mention in the first book of the series, but not by name, and I enjoyed working out who he was as the story swept Phoebe - and me, as I follwed - from France to England, onto a smuggler’s boat, into crowded ballrooms and onto a coach held prisoner by an old enemy. How will she escape? And will she ever be able to be more than an acquaitance to Alex?
This is the third of the Marstone series, and it was a pleasure to be reunited with old friends and introduced to new ones. Alex actually has a mention in the first book of the series, but not by name, and I enjoyed working out who he was as the story swept Phoebe - and me, as I follwed - from France to England, onto a smuggler’s boat, into crowded ballrooms and onto a coach held prisoner by an old enemy. How will she escape? And will she ever be able to be more than an acquaitance to Alex?
July 20, 2020
I absolutely adored this tale. It was full of adventure, danger, romance, and clever witted characters. I don’t know if I can say how much I love Bella, her wit and style are just fantastic. Honestly though I related with Phoebe right off the bat because, while my hair has darkened with age, it was just as fiery red through middle school and I hated it. I feel the struggle with clothing colors, it drove my mom batty that I only liked dark colors. Forrest green and that beautiful deep blue. Yes. I related very much to Phoebe. I was engaged the entirety of the story, going to bed was a struggle. I cannot wait for The Fourth Marchioness. I look forward to the lead-up emails and of course the release.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2021
Much better than Book 2. Amusing, entertaining, with Intrigue, mystery, and wicked plots galore! I do love how this author presents her readers with such excellent Dastardly Villains (yes plural in a single volume). The worst villain is not necessarily entangled in Wicked Intrigue!
Great hero, wonderful heroine & an uncle to cherish!
My one complaint is the length. A great deal of judicious editing would have gone a long way - maybe cut one of the sub-plots?
Still … I thoroughly enjoyed it so …
Highly recommended.
Great hero, wonderful heroine & an uncle to cherish!
My one complaint is the length. A great deal of judicious editing would have gone a long way - maybe cut one of the sub-plots?
Still … I thoroughly enjoyed it so …
Highly recommended.
July 5, 2020
Exceptionally good
Davis has gifted us with a marvellous Regency with meat on its bones. As heroes often prefer girls who can talk about more than ribbon laces, I prefer a book that has depth and complexity. Phoebe and Alex are wonderful characters and the plot is interesting and intriguing. I read it with my kindle unlimited subscription, but it’s so good I intend to buy it. Very highly recommended.
Davis has gifted us with a marvellous Regency with meat on its bones. As heroes often prefer girls who can talk about more than ribbon laces, I prefer a book that has depth and complexity. Phoebe and Alex are wonderful characters and the plot is interesting and intriguing. I read it with my kindle unlimited subscription, but it’s so good I intend to buy it. Very highly recommended.
September 8, 2021
Exciting!
Wow I didn't think this series could get any better, but it certainly did. This tale involves the illegitimate son (Alex) of Lord Marstone. There is a traitor in the home office. Phoebe the poor relation living with her spiteful aunt, is treated as a maid. Kidnappings, attempted rapes, high society, spying, are just a few of the intrigues in the story. The tale is definitely enthralling.
Wow I didn't think this series could get any better, but it certainly did. This tale involves the illegitimate son (Alex) of Lord Marstone. There is a traitor in the home office. Phoebe the poor relation living with her spiteful aunt, is treated as a maid. Kidnappings, attempted rapes, high society, spying, are just a few of the intrigues in the story. The tale is definitely enthralling.
April 13, 2023
Clean Regency Romance
A great addition to the Marstone series. We get to meet Will and Bella more than a decade after their books - his intelligence and undemonstrative yet caring nature and her kindness and vivacity were a pleasure to come across again. This more than 400 page book kept my attention all through with its plot, characters, spycraft, voyages, locations and the time period around and immediately after the beheading of King Louis. I really came to like and admire Phoebe and Alex.
A great addition to the Marstone series. We get to meet Will and Bella more than a decade after their books - his intelligence and undemonstrative yet caring nature and her kindness and vivacity were a pleasure to come across again. This more than 400 page book kept my attention all through with its plot, characters, spycraft, voyages, locations and the time period around and immediately after the beheading of King Louis. I really came to like and admire Phoebe and Alex.
June 29, 2020
Great historical setting
Loved these characters, Phoebe and Alex, who meet in France amid the confusion and danger of the revolution. Both are quick witted, resourceful, and courageous. How can they not fall in love?
Loved these characters, Phoebe and Alex, who meet in France amid the confusion and danger of the revolution. Both are quick witted, resourceful, and courageous. How can they not fall in love?
September 12, 2020
Education
Historical romance too often has a few factoids dropped in here and there to gain the 'historical ' designation. Not so in Jayne Davis novels. History comes alive with adventure and color woven into a tapestry to be studied as well as enjoyed.the fact
Historical romance too often has a few factoids dropped in here and there to gain the 'historical ' designation. Not so in Jayne Davis novels. History comes alive with adventure and color woven into a tapestry to be studied as well as enjoyed.the fact
June 14, 2024
Good book
I really like Jayne Davis's writing. She puts you into the story from the beginning page. I have really enjoyed reading this series of books, how each one is tied to someone from the earlier books but can be read as a standalone. I highly recommend this book.
I really like Jayne Davis's writing. She puts you into the story from the beginning page. I have really enjoyed reading this series of books, how each one is tied to someone from the earlier books but can be read as a standalone. I highly recommend this book.
July 5, 2020
I swear the series keeps getting better. I loved Alex and Phoebe! Jayne Davis is fast becoming a favorite author.
July 17, 2020
Good story, strong characters, this was a little Cinderella mixed with war and more- nice historical background included.. I liked this series
October 16, 2020
Another really good book by this author. The mother from hell, the heroine we all wish we were, and a hero we all wish we had.
November 18, 2020
2.5 stars. Too long, some words misused.
February 8, 2021
Lots of excitement
Phoebe has some adventures and realizes she likes being useful. She would like to marry a man who let's her be useful!
Fun, clean romance
Phoebe has some adventures and realizes she likes being useful. She would like to marry a man who let's her be useful!
Fun, clean romance
February 23, 2021
Playing with Fire has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Premier Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
www.chillwithabook.com
April 26, 2021
Excellent piece of writing
A thoroughly good story with intrigue and romance, keeping the pages turning. Believable well written characters who become involved in espionage.
A thoroughly good story with intrigue and romance, keeping the pages turning. Believable well written characters who become involved in espionage.
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