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The Hadfields #1
Revealing a Rogue
How do you safeguard your heart from the rogue you’ve sworn to protect?
As secretary at Neale & Sons barristers, an unusual job for a woman, little surprises Miss Bronwyn Cadby. But nothing could prepare Bronwyn for the day Landon Neale, the Earl of Hadfield, waltzes into the office and proposes marriage — to her.
Ready to fulfill his duty and marry, Landon decides the only woman who suits his needs is the brilliant and fiery Miss Bronwyn. But the woman is no blushing debutante. Rather than accept his proposal outright and marry properly, she insists they elope to Gretna Green.
Landon has one carriage ride to reveal his inner rogue and convince Bronwyn she is worthy of being his countess. With every scandalous mile that passes, he will work to win over his reluctant bride.
But will her plan to divert him from the altar succeed?
Revealing a Rogue is a fun, steamy regency romance. If you like unconventional heroines and rogues in disguise, then you’ll adore Rachel Ann Smith’s fast-paced series-opener.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2020
204 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Ann Smith
53 books170 followersRachel Ann Smith writes steamy historical romances with a twist. Her debut series, Agents of the Home Office, features female protagonists that defy convention.
When Rachel isn’t writing, she loves to read and spend time with the family. She is frequently found with her Kindle by the pool during the summer, on the sidelines of the soccer field in the spring and fall or curled up on the couch during the winter months.
She currently lives in Colorado with her extremely understanding husband and their two very supportive children.
Visit Rachel's website for updates on cover reveals and new releases - www.rachelannsmith.com
When Rachel isn’t writing, she loves to read and spend time with the family. She is frequently found with her Kindle by the pool during the summer, on the sidelines of the soccer field in the spring and fall or curled up on the couch during the winter months.
She currently lives in Colorado with her extremely understanding husband and their two very supportive children.
Visit Rachel's website for updates on cover reveals and new releases - www.rachelannsmith.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 6, 2020
Series: The Hadfields #1
Publication Date: 10/20/20
Number of Pages: 187
This was a lovely first book in a new series – a trilogy I believe. We learned of the organization to which our hero and heroine belong in the previous series, Agents of the Home Office. Most, if not all of the characters from those books appear in this book and it was lovely to have a nice visit with them. You can certainly read this as a stand-alone book, but to truly understand the organization, its origins, its structure, and its purpose, then reading the previous series – especially Mysteries Of Lady Theo – is something you’ll want to do. I specifically mention Lady Theo’s book because that is where our current hero is introduced. The books in both series are good, but the first series was more exciting because they had villains, mysteries, spies, etc. This book and I assume the next, Tempting a Gentleman, are romances without the wild chases, villains, etc. It was an excellent read and I was delighted to meet both the hero and heroine.
Landon Neale, Earl of Hadfield, had never expected to inherit a title, but he’s now been the Earl of Hadfield for two years. He inherited a crumbling, penniless estate and has worked at rebuilding it. One thing he needs to do is provide an heir because he may not have a lot of years on this earth. His father, his cousin, his uncle (the former Earl), all died from a lung condition – and Landon has that same lung condition. He’s looked over his mother’s list of ladies from the ton, and he doesn’t want any of them. The ONLY woman he’s ever wanted – and still wants – is Bronwyn Cadby. Bronwyn was his secretary when he was a barrister, and her intelligence, quick understanding of a case and challenging arguments always held his interest. He knew back then – six years ago – that she was the one for him, but he never acted upon it. Now – well – now it is time.
Bronwyn is a much-respected member of The Network – an organization that acts solely in support of PORFs (Protectors of the Royal Family). Bronwyn was assigned to keep an eye on Landon several years ago because The Network thought he’d surely end up becoming the earl and a PORF. She’d cared about Landon since the first day she met him and by the time he inherited his title, she was totally in love with him. She made every effort to keep that well hidden because they were from very different backgrounds – he would be an earl and she was the daughter of a shopkeeper.
Landon has rehearsed his proposal, he has all of his arguments lined up, and he’s ready to act. Then, when he sees her, every coherent thought goes right out of his head. He was a brilliant barrister and now he can’t even speak much less make a case for himself. He bungles it royally, but she does agree to think about it and will let him know her answer the following day.
Landon loves Bronwyn – and Bronwyn loves Landon – you’d think it would be cut and dried, wouldn’t you. Well, it isn’t. Landon is totally committed, but Bronwyn feels unworthy. She doesn’t see the same beauty and abilities in herself as everyone else sees in her. She loves Landon and doesn’t want to reflect poorly on him. It was lovely to watch Landon and others bring Bronwyn to see where she is of value to him – that he truly does love her, and that she will be an asset rather than a liability.
I enjoyed this read and am looking forward to the next book in the series. That said, this book – like the previous series – is filled with anomalies. I hope those are all fixed prior to the release of the book. An example – she refers to Bronwyn’s friend, Emma, as Ms. Lennox. Ms. Is a modern construct – dating to about 1900 and not something you’d see in Regency England. Anyway, it was a fun read and I enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 10/20/20
Number of Pages: 187
This was a lovely first book in a new series – a trilogy I believe. We learned of the organization to which our hero and heroine belong in the previous series, Agents of the Home Office. Most, if not all of the characters from those books appear in this book and it was lovely to have a nice visit with them. You can certainly read this as a stand-alone book, but to truly understand the organization, its origins, its structure, and its purpose, then reading the previous series – especially Mysteries Of Lady Theo – is something you’ll want to do. I specifically mention Lady Theo’s book because that is where our current hero is introduced. The books in both series are good, but the first series was more exciting because they had villains, mysteries, spies, etc. This book and I assume the next, Tempting a Gentleman, are romances without the wild chases, villains, etc. It was an excellent read and I was delighted to meet both the hero and heroine.
Landon Neale, Earl of Hadfield, had never expected to inherit a title, but he’s now been the Earl of Hadfield for two years. He inherited a crumbling, penniless estate and has worked at rebuilding it. One thing he needs to do is provide an heir because he may not have a lot of years on this earth. His father, his cousin, his uncle (the former Earl), all died from a lung condition – and Landon has that same lung condition. He’s looked over his mother’s list of ladies from the ton, and he doesn’t want any of them. The ONLY woman he’s ever wanted – and still wants – is Bronwyn Cadby. Bronwyn was his secretary when he was a barrister, and her intelligence, quick understanding of a case and challenging arguments always held his interest. He knew back then – six years ago – that she was the one for him, but he never acted upon it. Now – well – now it is time.
Bronwyn is a much-respected member of The Network – an organization that acts solely in support of PORFs (Protectors of the Royal Family). Bronwyn was assigned to keep an eye on Landon several years ago because The Network thought he’d surely end up becoming the earl and a PORF. She’d cared about Landon since the first day she met him and by the time he inherited his title, she was totally in love with him. She made every effort to keep that well hidden because they were from very different backgrounds – he would be an earl and she was the daughter of a shopkeeper.
Landon has rehearsed his proposal, he has all of his arguments lined up, and he’s ready to act. Then, when he sees her, every coherent thought goes right out of his head. He was a brilliant barrister and now he can’t even speak much less make a case for himself. He bungles it royally, but she does agree to think about it and will let him know her answer the following day.
Landon loves Bronwyn – and Bronwyn loves Landon – you’d think it would be cut and dried, wouldn’t you. Well, it isn’t. Landon is totally committed, but Bronwyn feels unworthy. She doesn’t see the same beauty and abilities in herself as everyone else sees in her. She loves Landon and doesn’t want to reflect poorly on him. It was lovely to watch Landon and others bring Bronwyn to see where she is of value to him – that he truly does love her, and that she will be an asset rather than a liability.
I enjoyed this read and am looking forward to the next book in the series. That said, this book – like the previous series – is filled with anomalies. I hope those are all fixed prior to the release of the book. An example – she refers to Bronwyn’s friend, Emma, as Ms. Lennox. Ms. Is a modern construct – dating to about 1900 and not something you’d see in Regency England. Anyway, it was a fun read and I enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 20, 2020
I did enjoy this story and I found the characters to be engaging. Landon Neale, Earl of Hadfield had known that the only bride for him was Miss Bronwyn Cadby. Bronwyn has known Landon for a good number of years and has always loved him. However, although she is an intelligent woman, she is unaware of her own self worth and considers herself unworthy of him. I loved the way that Landon was patient with Bronwyn and encourage her to value herself. However, would this be enough to overcome her own self doubts. The next in the series looks to be an interesting read too. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 19, 2020
I had a difficult time connecting to this novel. To begin with, there is a whole secondary plot that revolves around these characters. A "secret society" called the Network and another even more secret society that are known as the Protectors of the Royal Family (or PROFs for short). Time and again, we see this moniker used (as Landon also happens to be the head PROF), but we never actually learn about what they do, or what makes him so important. In fact, there are so many people thrown into this story that are members of one or the other of these societies that it becomes muddled just who is who.
I also struggled a lot with Bronwyn. We are lead to believe that this is a character unlike any other heroine of the time period, with her fiery personality and keen mind (she holds a position that until her had been held only by men for crying out loud). And for awhile she is everything she was promised to be. But then she marries Landon and completely loses herself. Instead of being the woman we have gotten to know up until this point she starts seconds guessing herself, and allowing what she perceives as others opinions of her to be dictate that she isn't good enough to be Landon's wife. First, she hides away during a house party, refusing to be introduced until the last couple arrives, and even then she waits until the last possible moment so that introductions cannot be made until after dinner. A dinner of course, where she decides she can never live up to the other ladies and flees in the night. Also, we are lead to believe that she is somehow meant to protect Landon, but we never see an instances of this either.
Overall, I believe there were a lot of missed opportunities with this one. Chances to show off Bronwyn in her role as protector (which also may have helped with her lack of self-esteem) or even the PROFs or the Network in action). Or heck, even just the two of them settling into their roles as husband and wife OUTSIDE of the bedroom. Because I mean, don't get me wrong, I'm no prude by any stretch of the imagination, but if you read one sex scene in a book, well you've read all the sex scenes in that book. Nothing really changes. We get it, they enjoy bed sport. Nothing wrong with that, but give us more to go on. And a little more explanation as to how Bronwyn's father can refuse to "recognize" the marriage until his daughter gets the PROF tattoo would have been enjoyed as well. For all the talk of Landon being the highest ranking among the group, they sure seemed to be able to ignore what he said with no problem.
Even with these things, I would give this author another shot later on down the road if I happen to come across another of her stories just to see how they might compare to this one.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
September 24, 2022
I didn't gel with this book. I felt like the story started in the middle of Brownwyn and Landan's relationship. It was just a weird start for the book and didn't work for me. It was hard after that to connect to the relationship happening between the main characters and I found it a struggle to continue. Disappointing.
Reading Challenge 2022
Month: September Letters: Q/R
Reading Challenge 2022
Month: September Letters: Q/R
April 18, 2022
I was so bored! There was no character development whatsoever and it felt like chunks of storyline were missing.
October 6, 2022
I just didn't like it.
October 16, 2020
Revealing a Rogue: Steamy Regency Romance
The Hadfields Series #1
Rachel Ann Smith
https://www.facebook.com/rachelannsmi...
Release date 10/20/2020
Publisher Penford Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
How do you safeguard your heart from the rogue you’ve sworn to protect?
As secretary at Neale & Sons barristers, an unusual job for a woman, little surprises Miss Bronwyn Cadby. But nothing could prepare Bronwyn for the day Landon Neale, the Earl of Hadfield, waltzes into the office and proposes marriage — to her.
Ready to fulfill his duty and marry, Landon decides the only woman who suits his needs is the brilliant and fiery Miss Bronwyn. But the woman is no blushing debutante. Rather than accept his proposal outright and marry properly, she insists they elope to Gretna Green.
Landon has one carriage ride to reveal his inner rogue and convince Bronwyn she is worthy of being his countess. With every scandalous mile that passes, he will work to win over his reluctant bride.
But will her plan to divert him from the altar succeed?
Revealing a Rogue is a fun, steamy regency romance. If you like unconventional heroines and rogues in disguise, then you’ll adore Rachel Ann Smith’s fast-paced series-opener.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he be able to prove her he made no mistake by singling her out ...
Firstly while it is a standalone story, I would recommend to read the series this one is the sequel, Agents of the Home Office, because while I have read the last two in this series, the PORF and the web behind them are still quite a conundrum to me.
Maybe the author could had a note to explain the working of this network and its meaning.
Outside the fact, I am yet to comprehend the whys behind this system, the romance was a cute even if I mentally berated the heroine for her stubbornness to deny her husband to have been right to choose her.
Landon is a man to admire, he is one to plan ahead, he never acts harshly, so he took his time to advise the woman he wants to marry of his choice, but he made a muddle of it, because if he needed time to propose, he had known for years whom he loved.
Bronwyn like Landon has admire him from afar since their first encounter, but since he inherited his title, he became out of reach. Why she is unable to accept his proposal. How can she believe herself to be worthy of him when she sees herself as not fit for the role.
Because the true impediment to the happiness of their union is one can’t truly love another if one does not have a minimum of respect for oneself.
And Bronwyn with all her successes and achievements is mindless of them, she is so set on proving he is wrong to want her, she does not question the reasons Landon has to seek her instead of any society’s debutante.
This book is a lovely romance in the true meaning of the word without the spies/betrayals/cheating from the previous stories. It is a tale of what feeds the mind and how it can tear apart lovers in spite of their attachments.
4 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
The Hadfields Series #1
Rachel Ann Smith
https://www.facebook.com/rachelannsmi...
Release date 10/20/2020
Publisher Penford Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
How do you safeguard your heart from the rogue you’ve sworn to protect?
As secretary at Neale & Sons barristers, an unusual job for a woman, little surprises Miss Bronwyn Cadby. But nothing could prepare Bronwyn for the day Landon Neale, the Earl of Hadfield, waltzes into the office and proposes marriage — to her.
Ready to fulfill his duty and marry, Landon decides the only woman who suits his needs is the brilliant and fiery Miss Bronwyn. But the woman is no blushing debutante. Rather than accept his proposal outright and marry properly, she insists they elope to Gretna Green.
Landon has one carriage ride to reveal his inner rogue and convince Bronwyn she is worthy of being his countess. With every scandalous mile that passes, he will work to win over his reluctant bride.
But will her plan to divert him from the altar succeed?
Revealing a Rogue is a fun, steamy regency romance. If you like unconventional heroines and rogues in disguise, then you’ll adore Rachel Ann Smith’s fast-paced series-opener.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he be able to prove her he made no mistake by singling her out ...
Firstly while it is a standalone story, I would recommend to read the series this one is the sequel, Agents of the Home Office, because while I have read the last two in this series, the PORF and the web behind them are still quite a conundrum to me.
Maybe the author could had a note to explain the working of this network and its meaning.
Outside the fact, I am yet to comprehend the whys behind this system, the romance was a cute even if I mentally berated the heroine for her stubbornness to deny her husband to have been right to choose her.
Landon is a man to admire, he is one to plan ahead, he never acts harshly, so he took his time to advise the woman he wants to marry of his choice, but he made a muddle of it, because if he needed time to propose, he had known for years whom he loved.
Bronwyn like Landon has admire him from afar since their first encounter, but since he inherited his title, he became out of reach. Why she is unable to accept his proposal. How can she believe herself to be worthy of him when she sees herself as not fit for the role.
Because the true impediment to the happiness of their union is one can’t truly love another if one does not have a minimum of respect for oneself.
And Bronwyn with all her successes and achievements is mindless of them, she is so set on proving he is wrong to want her, she does not question the reasons Landon has to seek her instead of any society’s debutante.
This book is a lovely romance in the true meaning of the word without the spies/betrayals/cheating from the previous stories. It is a tale of what feeds the mind and how it can tear apart lovers in spite of their attachments.
4 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
April 28, 2022
Major issues not resolved
He picks a wife because of health concerns. That is never resolved or addressed. She has major reservations about being suited to the part and that to is never fixed. Instead it's lots of love scenes that aren't very imaginative. She's a woman after my own heart with how she likes it but their bedroom play is very basic.
He picks a wife because of health concerns. That is never resolved or addressed. She has major reservations about being suited to the part and that to is never fixed. Instead it's lots of love scenes that aren't very imaginative. She's a woman after my own heart with how she likes it but their bedroom play is very basic.
June 19, 2022
DNF @ 53%. I am confusion. I was just put in the middle of a story, and I have no idea what’s going on. I don’t understand the 2 organizations, and I can’t differentiate them.
I also wish I would have seen some of the previous interaction between the hero and the heroine, before he had to leave the law firm. That would have been interesting.
I also wish I would have seen some of the previous interaction between the hero and the heroine, before he had to leave the law firm. That would have been interesting.
April 16, 2022
You know, this was a novel story and quite amusing until the H and h engaged in intimate talk and touching en route to Gretna Greene that never in a million years would have occurred back then. DNF
October 19, 2020
There was only one woman that Landon Neale, the Earl of Hadfield, deemed worthy of being his wife and Countess. Working as a secretary in the family law offices for over six years, little surprised Bronwyn. But when Landon returns from the Continent demanding they marry - Bronwyn has to prevent the man she pledged to safeguard, from making the biggest mistake of his life. When Bronwyn suggests they elope to Gretna Green, Landon believes it a twist of good luck - he’d use the time to show her how good it could be between them.
This is the first in a new series but is a spin off from an earlier series so whilst it’s easily read on its own we do encounter previous characters & it was great to catch up with them. A well written lovely romance, with both Landon & Bronwyn being in love with each other for years but they didn't realise how the other felt until after they were married. There were no mysteries, no intrigues just a delightful romance. I loved how Bronwyn grew in confidence & how she came to value herself
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the first in a new series but is a spin off from an earlier series so whilst it’s easily read on its own we do encounter previous characters & it was great to catch up with them. A well written lovely romance, with both Landon & Bronwyn being in love with each other for years but they didn't realise how the other felt until after they were married. There were no mysteries, no intrigues just a delightful romance. I loved how Bronwyn grew in confidence & how she came to value herself
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 15, 2020
I enjoyed this book. Revealing A Rogue is the first book in The Hadfields series. It can be read as a stand alone but I suggest reading the Agents of the Home Office series first to get a good understanding of PORFs and all of the characters. In this book Landon Neale, the Earl of Hadfield wants to marry Bronwyn Cadby. He is an ex-lawyer and the head PORF, she was his secretary and agent assigned to watch over him. This is the classic tale where Bronwyn doesn't feel worthy to marry Landon but he is determined to prove her wrong! I would definitely recommend this book!
October 23, 2020
Such a fun book to read.
This one started off in such a cute way with the Earl proposing to Bronwyn now mind you this gentleman does not even know her last name only that she is what he wants for a wife. So unexpected it was that Bronwyn was thrown for a loop. This was the man of her dreams and the man she sworn to protect. Thinking she is not right for the job she seeks advice but no one agrees with her and I mean no one. What’s a lady to do? I am not going to give you a clue it just may spoil the tale for you and it is a grand tale I must say. I loved the book the steam, the twists, the interaction, and dialogue this charmer grabbed me on the first page and before I knew it I was finished with the book. I highly recommend this book! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This one started off in such a cute way with the Earl proposing to Bronwyn now mind you this gentleman does not even know her last name only that she is what he wants for a wife. So unexpected it was that Bronwyn was thrown for a loop. This was the man of her dreams and the man she sworn to protect. Thinking she is not right for the job she seeks advice but no one agrees with her and I mean no one. What’s a lady to do? I am not going to give you a clue it just may spoil the tale for you and it is a grand tale I must say. I loved the book the steam, the twists, the interaction, and dialogue this charmer grabbed me on the first page and before I knew it I was finished with the book. I highly recommend this book! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 18, 2020
A very awesome story. Landon knows what he wants and he goes directly after her. Bronwyn is a fiery and determined female. She is a protector and is very loyal. The story is about the journey that these two take as they discover how well suited they are together as a couple. It is filled with witty conversations as well as steamy scenes as they explore and get to know each other. It is a really fun read as these two fall totally in love.
October 31, 2020
Revealing a Rogue will guide you on a journey filled with sizzling passion, head-strong individuals who become embedded in your heart. As Bronwyn searches within herself for her-esteem Landon, a rogue with dimples, helps Bronwyn find her way and she realizes just how lucky she is to have the love of Landon. Rachel Ann Smith has written a wonderful story filled with characters that come off the pages and pulls you into their tale, excellently written and well-paced, with a superb plott, and great dialogue. It will hook you from the start and keep you turning the pages to the very end. Looking forward to reading about Landon's brother Christopher in Tempting a Gentleman.
October 20, 2020
I liked the fact that Landon knew who he loved and wanted to marry. Only his love didn't feel she could be the wife for him. He had inherited a title and she thought that marrying her would be his mistake. She didn't love herself enough to believe in him. How he would work everything out is worth reading.
October 27, 2020
Review coming very soon!
November 8, 2020
A reluctant lady agrees to marry the man she's loved for several years. Working as his secretary in his profession as a barrister changes when he becomes an Earl and rises to the top of the PORF. Insecurities for their different social positions haunt her, but the man she loves with some help from family and friends are determined to change her mind. The bedroom door, plus the carriage and the library are wide open and leave very little to the imagination.
Reads very quickly with an HEA. Interesting series with interconnecting characters.
Reads very quickly with an HEA. Interesting series with interconnecting characters.
October 22, 2020
Revealing a Rogue: Steamy Regency Romance (The Hadfields Book 1)
Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2020
Really enjoyed reading this book, Things were so different back then. But the love between Landon and Bronwyn grows and hopefully ends with a HEA!
Very well written story and well worth reading.
Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2020
Really enjoyed reading this book, Things were so different back then. But the love between Landon and Bronwyn grows and hopefully ends with a HEA!
Very well written story and well worth reading.
October 23, 2020
Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Simply a GREAT read!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
October 21, 2020
Smart.
A smart historical that is refreshing and different.
Landon is a barrister turned Earl who is in want of a wife and heir (he has a lung disease). He selects Miss Bronwyn, despite not knowing her surname and not seeing her for two years, though they did work together for the six years previous.
Bronwyn is a protector of a secret society PORF. She was first protecting Landon. She’s clever and at odds if she should accept his proposal.
Recommend.
A smart historical that is refreshing and different.
Landon is a barrister turned Earl who is in want of a wife and heir (he has a lung disease). He selects Miss Bronwyn, despite not knowing her surname and not seeing her for two years, though they did work together for the six years previous.
Bronwyn is a protector of a secret society PORF. She was first protecting Landon. She’s clever and at odds if she should accept his proposal.
Recommend.
October 21, 2020
I enjoyed the romance side between different class people.
But I found the secret society side a bit odd.
Nevertheless a pleasant read, with enjoyable main characters.
I received the book in exchange for an honest review.
But I found the secret society side a bit odd.
Nevertheless a pleasant read, with enjoyable main characters.
I received the book in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2020
Revealing a Rogue is a fun, steamy regency romance. If you like unconventional heroines and rogues in disguise, then you’ll adore Rachel Ann Smith’s fast-paced series-opener.
October 28, 2020
I thought this story would have more suspense for being about a super secret society, but the most suspense was Bronwyn's stress over not being the perfect society lady that Landon, Lord Hatfield needs. Bronwyn was Landon's legal secretary before he succeeded to the title and she got rid of her cockney accent and learned a lot about the law while working for him and he decides that she would make a much better wife than any of the society ladies he's met. She spends most of the book brushing up on her ladylike skills and wondering why he married her. The supporting characters, who were interesting in their various skills and roles are also part of this society, which I never really grasped the purpose for.
October 10, 2020
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review The Hatfields #1 Bronwyn is a secretary at Neale & Sons barristers and Landon Neale, an Earl wants to marry her even though she is below his station in life. She may accept if they elope and they will need to take a carriage ride to a destination to do so. Landon will do his best to secure her love for himself on the trip. Will everything work out and love prevail? This book has an interesting yet I found it a little cumbersome twist, if you are into secret organizations. A group call the protectors of the Royal family PORFs and the network. Overall I did enjoy this book.
October 14, 2020
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Revealing a Rogue is the first in her spinoff series, The Hadfields. And while I struggled starting off with the last book in the previous series due to it feeling like there were some continuing plot threads, this one strikes a better balance between being set in the same world and featuring some recurring characters, while also working fairly well as a stand-alone work.
I enjoyed both Landon and Bronwyn as characters, and liked this unique take on a cross-class dynamic, mixed with a marriage-of-convenience. I like that she challenged him about why he was proposing, and he really worked to win her affections, as opposed to her being grateful to receive the attention of a handsome lord from the get-go. It’s a fairly common setup in HR, but it still feels fresh in the way it’s conveyed.
The PORF organization is still a factor, although much less so than in the first series. I am still interested in going back when I am able to grasp some of the nuance I missed, but am glad that not being as well-versed in the goings-on of this world did not hinder my enjoyment as much this time around.
This is a promising start to a new series that will delight Rachel Ann Smith’s established reader base, and also serve as a great entry point for historical romance lovers into Smith’s imaginative world.
Revealing a Rogue is the first in her spinoff series, The Hadfields. And while I struggled starting off with the last book in the previous series due to it feeling like there were some continuing plot threads, this one strikes a better balance between being set in the same world and featuring some recurring characters, while also working fairly well as a stand-alone work.
I enjoyed both Landon and Bronwyn as characters, and liked this unique take on a cross-class dynamic, mixed with a marriage-of-convenience. I like that she challenged him about why he was proposing, and he really worked to win her affections, as opposed to her being grateful to receive the attention of a handsome lord from the get-go. It’s a fairly common setup in HR, but it still feels fresh in the way it’s conveyed.
The PORF organization is still a factor, although much less so than in the first series. I am still interested in going back when I am able to grasp some of the nuance I missed, but am glad that not being as well-versed in the goings-on of this world did not hinder my enjoyment as much this time around.
This is a promising start to a new series that will delight Rachel Ann Smith’s established reader base, and also serve as a great entry point for historical romance lovers into Smith’s imaginative world.
December 2, 2020
The first book in The Hadfields series a Steamy Regency Romance that is well written and held my interest until the end. I enjoyed reading Miss Bronwyn Cadby a secretary at Neale & Sons barristers, and Landon Neale, the Earl of Hadfield's story which I found myself smiling as I read. I received a copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2023
Landon Neale, Earl of Hadfield, brother Christopher, mother Lady Henrietta who loves her family.
Miss Bronwyn Cadby, oldest child to one of the council families and member of the PORF Network, first to seek a position outside normal function for a woman, to protect the next head PORF. (Protectors of the Royal Family)
Graham Drummond, Lord Archbroke, Theo, Lady Archbroke, his cousin, Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Waterford, “Mrs. Lennox daughter Emma is their modiest, Mrs. Cornwell, whose family has served in the Marquess of Burke’s, Mrs. Barnwell, she and her husband own a coaching inn, the Lone Dove, Rutherford a jeweler, and Cadby tobacco shop owner, make up the council members.
Lady Mary, Lady Frances a close companion and advisor to Lady Mary. Lady Mary can see and talk to the dead.
Duchess of Fairmont. Lady Dorinda, A formidable lady in the ton, most want her good grace and strive to stay there.
Graham Drummond, Earl of Archbroke and Head of the Home Office, Matthew Stanford, Marquis of Harrington, formally a dual agent of the Home and Foreign Offices, and his wife, Lady Grace, who was the acting head of the Foreign Office. Blake Gower, Earl of Devonton, agent of the Foreign Office. His wife, Lucille Stanford Gower, Countess Devonton, worked for the Home Office. Blake Gower, Earl of Devonton, agent of the Foreign Office. His wife, Lucille Stanford Gower, Countess Devonton, worked for the Home Office.
Landon has waited eight years to ask Bronwyn to marry him, he wanted to make sure it was right, good for both of them, and that it would not interfere with his barrister work. Until he inherited the title of Earl of Hatfield after his uncle died. Now not only does he have that but the position of protecting the royal family. He know Bronwyn his the strength, intelligence, and gumpshion. She looks at things from all angles to formulate what would be best. However, Bronwyn does not see herself that way. She does agree to marry him with a few requests of her own.
So join the sealing of a woman who likes the shadows more than the limelight as she traverses this new role and find out what her request are. Does Landon agree to all and does he has his own? What does the Network do to help? Or do they hinder? How does Lady Theo, Lady Mary, and Henrietta all fit into her life? Will she succeed or fail?
This is a good series starter and keeps you wanting to find out what happens next. Great plot line with compelling characters. The interaction give this story depth and pulls you in. Wonderfully done
Miss Bronwyn Cadby, oldest child to one of the council families and member of the PORF Network, first to seek a position outside normal function for a woman, to protect the next head PORF. (Protectors of the Royal Family)
Graham Drummond, Lord Archbroke, Theo, Lady Archbroke, his cousin, Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Waterford, “Mrs. Lennox daughter Emma is their modiest, Mrs. Cornwell, whose family has served in the Marquess of Burke’s, Mrs. Barnwell, she and her husband own a coaching inn, the Lone Dove, Rutherford a jeweler, and Cadby tobacco shop owner, make up the council members.
Lady Mary, Lady Frances a close companion and advisor to Lady Mary. Lady Mary can see and talk to the dead.
Duchess of Fairmont. Lady Dorinda, A formidable lady in the ton, most want her good grace and strive to stay there.
Graham Drummond, Earl of Archbroke and Head of the Home Office, Matthew Stanford, Marquis of Harrington, formally a dual agent of the Home and Foreign Offices, and his wife, Lady Grace, who was the acting head of the Foreign Office. Blake Gower, Earl of Devonton, agent of the Foreign Office. His wife, Lucille Stanford Gower, Countess Devonton, worked for the Home Office. Blake Gower, Earl of Devonton, agent of the Foreign Office. His wife, Lucille Stanford Gower, Countess Devonton, worked for the Home Office.
Landon has waited eight years to ask Bronwyn to marry him, he wanted to make sure it was right, good for both of them, and that it would not interfere with his barrister work. Until he inherited the title of Earl of Hatfield after his uncle died. Now not only does he have that but the position of protecting the royal family. He know Bronwyn his the strength, intelligence, and gumpshion. She looks at things from all angles to formulate what would be best. However, Bronwyn does not see herself that way. She does agree to marry him with a few requests of her own.
So join the sealing of a woman who likes the shadows more than the limelight as she traverses this new role and find out what her request are. Does Landon agree to all and does he has his own? What does the Network do to help? Or do they hinder? How does Lady Theo, Lady Mary, and Henrietta all fit into her life? Will she succeed or fail?
This is a good series starter and keeps you wanting to find out what happens next. Great plot line with compelling characters. The interaction give this story depth and pulls you in. Wonderfully done
November 21, 2020
So this book had so much potential to be a fun and exciting read. The characters back ground was all set up for an entertaining read. Yet, that was not what the reader got. We have a strong, talented, intelligent woman turn into an unconfident, impulsive and pathetic heroine. Then we have our hero, who we are supposed to believe is some rogue, but is shown is hero who was devoted to his work, putting in long and late hours as a barrister then as an Earl. Really, rogue isn't the word at any point in this story to describe this man. The inconsistency in the characters really bugged me, and even with the nice ending, I did not feel either of them really grew.
Next off, the secret society that drew me to this book in the first place, seemed, well underdeveloped, or perhaps the details of what they actually DO was better shown in the previous series about this organization. My understanding was their role was to protect the royal family.... yet when one of them made an appearance it was met with utter disdain, which made the whole organization seem like a joke, a group of people that claim to do something to make themselves seem important. I also kept waiting for something to happen related to society business, since her job was to protect him.... yet there was never any danger to him, her or anyone else. As for him being the head of the org, he sure didn't seem to be the way that the society acted towards him.
The story did deliver on the "steamy" part of its title. Yet I found overall this book to be a bit on the boring side. I don't know if it was my expectations going in or if it was the execution of the book, but it seemed to plod on with a lot of inner negative dialogue. On a whole, this book was ok, I will probably try the next novel. *I received an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and this is my voluntary and honest review.
Next off, the secret society that drew me to this book in the first place, seemed, well underdeveloped, or perhaps the details of what they actually DO was better shown in the previous series about this organization. My understanding was their role was to protect the royal family.... yet when one of them made an appearance it was met with utter disdain, which made the whole organization seem like a joke, a group of people that claim to do something to make themselves seem important. I also kept waiting for something to happen related to society business, since her job was to protect him.... yet there was never any danger to him, her or anyone else. As for him being the head of the org, he sure didn't seem to be the way that the society acted towards him.
The story did deliver on the "steamy" part of its title. Yet I found overall this book to be a bit on the boring side. I don't know if it was my expectations going in or if it was the execution of the book, but it seemed to plod on with a lot of inner negative dialogue. On a whole, this book was ok, I will probably try the next novel. *I received an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 11, 2021
I enjoyed this first book in a new series (it is a spin-off of an earlier series) & we met up with some past characters which was fun. Landon Neale, Earl of Hadfield & former barrister, has decided to marry after being on the Continent for a couple of years & has found that his secretary of six years, Bronwyn Cadby, would be the perfect wife & countess for him - she is lovely, intelligent, puts him in his place & he has a tender for her; now he must convince her to marry him. Bronwyn is shocked when the man she has loved for years but does not know her feeling, demands their marriage saying she fits his perfect wife & countess requirements. She has been sworn to safeguard him for all these years & she must keep him from making the biggest mistake of his life in choosing her instead of a society lady. Her ploy to elope to Gretna Green using the time to sway his opinion turns into a wonderful & steamy romance but it is not until they are married that they realize how they both had felt about each other for years! I highly recommend this book for an entertaining read with no drama or angst & just a lovely romance between two people.
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