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Royal Four #3
One Night with a Spy
For years, Lady Julia Barrowby has acted the part of an old man's ornamental bride, never revealing that she has secretly helped the ailing Lord Barrowby in his work with the Royal Four. Now that her husband has died, Julia believes his place in the Four is hers by right. But convincing the remaining members will not be easy, especially with Marcus Ramsay, Lord Dryden, distracting her at every turn. Somehow, the mysterious Marcus seems to see into her very soul, effortlessly satisfying all her secret, forbidden longings…
Marcus stood next in line to be chosen for the Four, and he is not willing to be displaced by a woman, no matter how intriguing or beautiful she may be. Under orders to investigate Julia, Marcus discovers her diary, overflowing with years of loneliness and yearning. Fulfilling Julia's fantasies is the perfect way to get closer to her, but seducing this fascinating creature is fast becoming more than a means to an end--it is his soul's deepest desire…
Marcus stood next in line to be chosen for the Four, and he is not willing to be displaced by a woman, no matter how intriguing or beautiful she may be. Under orders to investigate Julia, Marcus discovers her diary, overflowing with years of loneliness and yearning. Fulfilling Julia's fantasies is the perfect way to get closer to her, but seducing this fascinating creature is fast becoming more than a means to an end--it is his soul's deepest desire…
321 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
About the author
Celeste Bradley
42 books1,813 followersVisit me at www.CelesteBradley.com or facebook.com/CelesteBradleyAuthor :)
Go to CelesteBradley.com/newsletter for my Voice of Society newsletter.
Hi, my name is Celeste Bradley and I write "brain chocolate." That is, I write fun and sexy escapism is for hardworking women everywhere. We deserve a little man-candy, too!
Reviewers like to say I write about misfit heroines getting the man of their dreams. Maybe that's true, but don't we all feel like misfits sometimes? Even if the rest of the world thinks we have all our balls in the air, aren't we juggling like mad on the inside, desperately trying not to drop one?
I love this manic, scattered life I lead. I love to write, craft, garden, bake and mother, even if I don't always do it all perfectly. I love living in the Southwest, with its big sky and vast desert views. I love venturing out of my quiet life to meet readers and other writers, and then I love to come back to my haven, full of ideas and renewed passion and creativity.
Maybe one of those times I'll meet you!
Hugs,
and thanks for reading!
Go to CelesteBradley.com/newsletter for my Voice of Society newsletter.
Hi, my name is Celeste Bradley and I write "brain chocolate." That is, I write fun and sexy escapism is for hardworking women everywhere. We deserve a little man-candy, too!
Reviewers like to say I write about misfit heroines getting the man of their dreams. Maybe that's true, but don't we all feel like misfits sometimes? Even if the rest of the world thinks we have all our balls in the air, aren't we juggling like mad on the inside, desperately trying not to drop one?
I love this manic, scattered life I lead. I love to write, craft, garden, bake and mother, even if I don't always do it all perfectly. I love living in the Southwest, with its big sky and vast desert views. I love venturing out of my quiet life to meet readers and other writers, and then I love to come back to my haven, full of ideas and renewed passion and creativity.
Maybe one of those times I'll meet you!
Hugs,
and thanks for reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 24, 2008
One Night with a Spy is the third book in the Royal Four series, which is an offshoot of the Liars Club series. It's been years since I last read any books by Celeste Bradley. I glommed her big-time, and then I decided to take a break so that I wouldn't get tired of her and Regency historicals (I don't like to get burned out on different genres). Now I am reminded why I am a fan of her writing.
Normally I have a low saturation point for witty, lighter Regency historical romances. Not that they are bad, I just prefer intense, darker romances. I think the Regency lord who happens to be a spy is a very trite, dull subject, so I am at the point now where I mostly give those a miss. But I have a few writers that I will read those by, Celeste Bradley would be high on the list. Ms. Bradley is able to write books that are a good balance of witty and intense. She also has a very good hand for a steamy read. And One Night with a Spy doesn't disappoint on any of those fronts.
Initially, I was predisposed to dislike Marcus. He was arrogant and a bit chauvinistic. Seemingly blinded by his ambitions, he had no problem insinuating himself in the widow, Lady Barrowby's affections with the ulterior motive of disproving her eligibility as the Fox, the member of the Royal Four who needed a replacement since Julia, Lady Barrowby's husband had died. He is low down enough to read her diaries, in an attempt to use it against her, but finds himself enthralled by the erotically detailed, sensual fantasies she has written down. Of course, he assumes that she is recording her true sexual adventures, and that makes him want to dislike her even more. However, his time 'seducing' Lady Barrowby culminates in his own seduction. He realizes that Julia is emminently qualified to serve as the Fox, having been her husband's groomed replacement, and in fact, acting as the Fox for the three years he was incapacitated with a stroke prior to his death. She's also very qualified to be the woman who steals his heart. Having seen this man gain a realization that he was way wrong in his estimations of Julia, I found myself shocked at his actions.
I do have admire that the author doesn't go the predictable route here. I wasn't sure how this would end, and that added a level of suspense to this story, along with the question about who and where the Chimera (a fierce antagonist of the Liar's Club) was. I was pretty much on Julia's team. I thought she earned the right to be Fox. Just because Marcus was a man didn't make him more qualified. And she was a lot more honorable and self-sacrificing than he was, although they both had their reasons for wanting the position as the Fox.
Although this didn't end up being as much of a favorite as the first two books in the Royal Four series, I really enjoyed it. I liked seeing Julia and Marcus' courtship, how Julia showed the great woman she was by her actions, and had Marcus falling deeply in love with her. The love scenes were very hot and sensual. Even though Marcus annoyed me, I could see why Julia loved him, and I understood why he was so ruthless in getting what he wanted. And he realized what was more important in the long run and went after it like a good hero should. The humor was good (as always), and the espionage elements were pretty intense. I also liked the aspects of the story involving Julia's adopted kin, the Fair Folk (who she had grown up with before she married Aldus, Lord Barrowby), and Julia's aged, toothless lion Sebastian's antics. Although brief, I liked the cameos from members of the Royal Four and a few of the characters from the Liar's Club books. I still mourn that she isn't writing those anymore. I loved that series. However, the Royal Four series is great too, and the good news is I still have one more book in this series to read. I think I'll be reading it soon.
Normally I have a low saturation point for witty, lighter Regency historical romances. Not that they are bad, I just prefer intense, darker romances. I think the Regency lord who happens to be a spy is a very trite, dull subject, so I am at the point now where I mostly give those a miss. But I have a few writers that I will read those by, Celeste Bradley would be high on the list. Ms. Bradley is able to write books that are a good balance of witty and intense. She also has a very good hand for a steamy read. And One Night with a Spy doesn't disappoint on any of those fronts.
Initially, I was predisposed to dislike Marcus. He was arrogant and a bit chauvinistic. Seemingly blinded by his ambitions, he had no problem insinuating himself in the widow, Lady Barrowby's affections with the ulterior motive of disproving her eligibility as the Fox, the member of the Royal Four who needed a replacement since Julia, Lady Barrowby's husband had died. He is low down enough to read her diaries, in an attempt to use it against her, but finds himself enthralled by the erotically detailed, sensual fantasies she has written down. Of course, he assumes that she is recording her true sexual adventures, and that makes him want to dislike her even more. However, his time 'seducing' Lady Barrowby culminates in his own seduction. He realizes that Julia is emminently qualified to serve as the Fox, having been her husband's groomed replacement, and in fact, acting as the Fox for the three years he was incapacitated with a stroke prior to his death. She's also very qualified to be the woman who steals his heart. Having seen this man gain a realization that he was way wrong in his estimations of Julia, I found myself shocked at his actions.
I do have admire that the author doesn't go the predictable route here. I wasn't sure how this would end, and that added a level of suspense to this story, along with the question about who and where the Chimera (a fierce antagonist of the Liar's Club) was. I was pretty much on Julia's team. I thought she earned the right to be Fox. Just because Marcus was a man didn't make him more qualified. And she was a lot more honorable and self-sacrificing than he was, although they both had their reasons for wanting the position as the Fox.
Although this didn't end up being as much of a favorite as the first two books in the Royal Four series, I really enjoyed it. I liked seeing Julia and Marcus' courtship, how Julia showed the great woman she was by her actions, and had Marcus falling deeply in love with her. The love scenes were very hot and sensual. Even though Marcus annoyed me, I could see why Julia loved him, and I understood why he was so ruthless in getting what he wanted. And he realized what was more important in the long run and went after it like a good hero should. The humor was good (as always), and the espionage elements were pretty intense. I also liked the aspects of the story involving Julia's adopted kin, the Fair Folk (who she had grown up with before she married Aldus, Lord Barrowby), and Julia's aged, toothless lion Sebastian's antics. Although brief, I liked the cameos from members of the Royal Four and a few of the characters from the Liar's Club books. I still mourn that she isn't writing those anymore. I loved that series. However, the Royal Four series is great too, and the good news is I still have one more book in this series to read. I think I'll be reading it soon.
December 7, 2010
2.5 - 3 stars
My feelings about this book are a bit conflicted. On the one hand, I hated the premise of the book: betrayal, manipulation, the level of deception, etc. In fact, I had to force myself to read it months after I'd read all the others in the series, including the Liars' Club series, by placing it as one of the books in a reading challenge. On the other hand, I liked the HEA and the certain level of heartache involved when the hero makes a major goof.
I couldn't like Marcus whole-heartedly. The level of deception and betrayal he dealt Julia did not sit well with me. I would have liked a whole lot more grovelling and to have him suffer more - a lot more. But perhaps Julia is a better person than I. I don't know if I would have forgiven him so easily even if I did love him and understand that he was doing what he thought was right.
To be honest, although Julia is supposedly this intelligent, tough-minded, sharp-witted woman, I felt like I was told all this more than shown it. There seemed to be too much evidence of her gullibility and naivety that simply did not match up with her persona as the Fox. I was especially displeased when she turned into a gullible, lovesick woman who rattled off her history prior to becoming Lady Barrowby after her first orgasm. While I could understand that Julia the Fox was also Julia the sexually frustrated young widow and woman, I saw too little of the former to be willing to accept the latter.
I did not like the torrid, erotic diary entries although it seemed to fit her character as a lonely, sexually frustrated young wife. However, I did like Marcus's initial reaction to finding what the diaries were about.
After Julia learned of Marcus's betrayal, although it was evident that he had regretted his actions, I really disliked how quickly she seemed to forgive him and to fall back into his arms, if only to experience the pleasures of sex with him one last time. I felt ready to throw the book against the wall at that point because all I could think of was, "Girl, don't you have any pride?"
While the author described Marcus's misery rather well, I still would have preferred to have him suffer more than internally. I wanted Julia to take longer to forgive him. I wanted to feel more of the impact of his realization at what his actions had cost him. No, I just wanted him to suffer for what he did longer than he did. It wasn't enough for me. (Yes, I am a teeny bit vindictive.)
So where was my conflict? About halfway through Marcus's deception, he realized that he could not complete it - or at least not easily. He was falling in love. He was ready to admit the truth of his identity and purpose to Julia. He kind of seemed desperate for a way out of the situation he found himself in after the betrayal. So when the HEA occurred, it was satisfactory enough - and he was rather sweet in his suffering and his lovesickness.
Unfortunately, the ending was a bit too tidy. Marcus thinking that he wasn't ready for the position too easily made way for allowing Julia regain her position as the Fox. It felt too contrived. There should have been a better way to show why Marcus was willing to give up the position he'd betrayed his lover for.
So while the negatives drag my rating of this book down to 1.5-2 stars, the pang I felt for Marcus and the happier note at the end raises it up to 2.5 - 3 stars.
My feelings about this book are a bit conflicted. On the one hand, I hated the premise of the book: betrayal, manipulation, the level of deception, etc. In fact, I had to force myself to read it months after I'd read all the others in the series, including the Liars' Club series, by placing it as one of the books in a reading challenge. On the other hand, I liked the HEA and the certain level of heartache involved when the hero makes a major goof.
I couldn't like Marcus whole-heartedly. The level of deception and betrayal he dealt Julia did not sit well with me. I would have liked a whole lot more grovelling and to have him suffer more - a lot more. But perhaps Julia is a better person than I. I don't know if I would have forgiven him so easily even if I did love him and understand that he was doing what he thought was right.
To be honest, although Julia is supposedly this intelligent, tough-minded, sharp-witted woman, I felt like I was told all this more than shown it. There seemed to be too much evidence of her gullibility and naivety that simply did not match up with her persona as the Fox. I was especially displeased when she turned into a gullible, lovesick woman who rattled off her history prior to becoming Lady Barrowby after her first orgasm. While I could understand that Julia the Fox was also Julia the sexually frustrated young widow and woman, I saw too little of the former to be willing to accept the latter.
I did not like the torrid, erotic diary entries although it seemed to fit her character as a lonely, sexually frustrated young wife. However, I did like Marcus's initial reaction to finding what the diaries were about.
After Julia learned of Marcus's betrayal, although it was evident that he had regretted his actions, I really disliked how quickly she seemed to forgive him and to fall back into his arms, if only to experience the pleasures of sex with him one last time. I felt ready to throw the book against the wall at that point because all I could think of was, "Girl, don't you have any pride?"
While the author described Marcus's misery rather well, I still would have preferred to have him suffer more than internally. I wanted Julia to take longer to forgive him. I wanted to feel more of the impact of his realization at what his actions had cost him. No, I just wanted him to suffer for what he did longer than he did. It wasn't enough for me. (Yes, I am a teeny bit vindictive.)
So where was my conflict? About halfway through Marcus's deception, he realized that he could not complete it - or at least not easily. He was falling in love. He was ready to admit the truth of his identity and purpose to Julia. He kind of seemed desperate for a way out of the situation he found himself in after the betrayal. So when the HEA occurred, it was satisfactory enough - and he was rather sweet in his suffering and his lovesickness.
Unfortunately, the ending was a bit too tidy. Marcus thinking that he wasn't ready for the position too easily made way for allowing Julia regain her position as the Fox. It felt too contrived. There should have been a better way to show why Marcus was willing to give up the position he'd betrayed his lover for.
So while the negatives drag my rating of this book down to 1.5-2 stars, the pang I felt for Marcus and the happier note at the end raises it up to 2.5 - 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2016
I was so mad at lots of parts during this book. If you are the kind of person, like me, who HATES it when the Hero does not grovel after he has been a piece of shit the whole book or does some stupid shit to the Heroine, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. I wanted to put it down but unfortunately, like many others, I have been reading the entire series, including the Liars Club. This has been Celeste's worst in both series. I am so mad at the Heroine. There was never a point where the Heroine showed self-respect by being mad at the Hero for betraying her. NONE. Someone betrays u and takes away a goal you have dedicated yourself to for 3 years and you are never mad at them simply because you love them? C'mon Ms. Bradley, stop playing these games. Most normal women are not doormats.
And even doormats have their moments. She did such a disservice to both hero and heroine. Hero never at any point feels rejection from Heroine, does not show growth of character at end of book.
Heroine never displays her strength and intelligence, we are only TOLD she is these things. Heroine was made to be too good to be true. There was too many disappointments with this book.
And even doormats have their moments. She did such a disservice to both hero and heroine. Hero never at any point feels rejection from Heroine, does not show growth of character at end of book.
Heroine never displays her strength and intelligence, we are only TOLD she is these things. Heroine was made to be too good to be true. There was too many disappointments with this book.
June 8, 2010
This book was fun, since it deals with this idea of a woman being a member of the Royal Four. And there were all those fun circus performers! And I was excited to see what Marcus was up to in this book, after his supporting role in the last book... And it was pretty cute, overall... I just think that if anyone did to me what Marcus did to Julia... HOLY COW! But she just falls right back into his arms...
I dunno... I feel like there's a pattern developing in Celeste Bradley's books: characters who fall deeply, yet inexplicably in love with no real basis for their feelings other than an intense physical attraction to one another... And what kind of basis is THAT for a long-lasting relationship? Not a very good one, IMO.
Oh, and the random fantasies at the beginnings of the chapters? Could we cut those out, please?
I dunno... I feel like there's a pattern developing in Celeste Bradley's books: characters who fall deeply, yet inexplicably in love with no real basis for their feelings other than an intense physical attraction to one another... And what kind of basis is THAT for a long-lasting relationship? Not a very good one, IMO.
Oh, and the random fantasies at the beginnings of the chapters? Could we cut those out, please?
July 13, 2010
The premise for this one was great. A female super-spy wannabe with an intriguing background and an ambitious and attractive rival. Unfortunately, the book just didn't live up to the outline and, frustratingly, it was only for want of a few tweaks. The heroine was clearly super-smart, but I really struggled to think that she wouldn't see through the hero's "disguise". It could have been really entertaining if she had and then strung him along. Also, why make her The World's Most Beautiful? Why not make her ordinary-looking? It would have made the interactions with the hero really interesting. The excerpts from the heroine's erotica were rather long and tedious, although it added a nice earthiness to her, and the secondary characters were good, particularly her unusual household. The hero was a bit weak and disappointing, although not completely. So, the weakest of the Royal Four so far, but I still enjoyed it, just not as much.
April 15, 2010
Ms. Bradley is back on her game. This story is rich in romance, mystery and suspense. Her writing has a depth that draws the reader into the emotions of each character then takes them on a ride you can't put down.
September 14, 2020
I'm going to be blunt here and just lead with the fact that I wasn't really into this book either. Beginning the book with the main female character's diary and its intimate desires did not strike a positive chord with me. After flipping through several pages, I felt a little excited about the prospect of Julia becoming the first woman spy on the Royal Four team, but that plot piece was quickly overshadowed by the conflicts which arose.
Her relationship with her husband and taking over for him in his capacity as The Fox was kinda sweet and held promise, but after he died and she goes before the rest of the Royal Four as well as the Prime Minister, she promises to show she is the right candidate to continue the spy line. However, she doesn't really show what she can do. Her home is the main center of the story, and beyond someone trying to destroy her land and take her out -- she thinks it's the Royal Four trying to test her, and Marcus showing up to see what she's made of and tricks her out of the role.
To be honest, I was irritated by this story. I thought there could be more focus on Julia's talents, skills as a spy, and ability to get the case figured out for herself. The fact that Marcus tricked her so easily upset me. Also, Marcus's attitude and using Julia for his own selfish gain kinda set me against him as a hero from the start. The addition of her gypsy-like, circus family was adorable, and I'd have loved to see more of them used in the plot as well, but it felt as if they were the frosting on the cake and not an integral part.
Usually, I'm all for Bradley's strong female leads and her agents at work, but this fell a little flat for me. There was a lot of potential and room to grow the characters, but it felt as if the whole point of the story was to fulfill Julia's secret diary desires and for Marcus to win the role of The Fox through deplorable means. Overall, it didn't strike the satisfying chord that The Liars Club, and even book one of this series, has done. 2/5
Find out more about my thoughts on the series: https://rebeccaswriteinspirations.blo...
Her relationship with her husband and taking over for him in his capacity as The Fox was kinda sweet and held promise, but after he died and she goes before the rest of the Royal Four as well as the Prime Minister, she promises to show she is the right candidate to continue the spy line. However, she doesn't really show what she can do. Her home is the main center of the story, and beyond someone trying to destroy her land and take her out -- she thinks it's the Royal Four trying to test her, and Marcus showing up to see what she's made of and tricks her out of the role.
To be honest, I was irritated by this story. I thought there could be more focus on Julia's talents, skills as a spy, and ability to get the case figured out for herself. The fact that Marcus tricked her so easily upset me. Also, Marcus's attitude and using Julia for his own selfish gain kinda set me against him as a hero from the start. The addition of her gypsy-like, circus family was adorable, and I'd have loved to see more of them used in the plot as well, but it felt as if they were the frosting on the cake and not an integral part.
Usually, I'm all for Bradley's strong female leads and her agents at work, but this fell a little flat for me. There was a lot of potential and room to grow the characters, but it felt as if the whole point of the story was to fulfill Julia's secret diary desires and for Marcus to win the role of The Fox through deplorable means. Overall, it didn't strike the satisfying chord that The Liars Club, and even book one of this series, has done. 2/5
Find out more about my thoughts on the series: https://rebeccaswriteinspirations.blo...
January 12, 2023
I cannot count how many times I have rolled my eyes while reading this. One thing I know though, it was a hard one to finish. I still tried though, but in the end I didn't really like it. I had hope, but there is nothing in the story plot that interested me. Most of the time I was confused while reading because there is just no proper transitioning when it comes to the events of the scene. Poorly described characters, and confusing dialogue.. the overall execution I would sadly say is boring. I just forced myself to finish this to not waste another book.
I'm quite surprised it has a high rating though.. to each their own I guess. I just didn't really connect with the story and its characters and the writing style isn't just for me. This is even the first time that I wish the main characters don't end up together, which is crazy lol. There's just toxicity in the later scenes, I just think it was too much betrayal that could have been written differently. Even the delivery of the scenes that could be considered as the climax was poorly written. And the female MC being fine with the 'betrayal' and still prioritizes her desire and lust for him rather than herself just didn't sit right with me. Just doesn't add to her strong woman character niche. Nevertheless, I don't hate it as much so I'm giving it 2/5.
I'm quite surprised it has a high rating though.. to each their own I guess. I just didn't really connect with the story and its characters and the writing style isn't just for me. This is even the first time that I wish the main characters don't end up together, which is crazy lol. There's just toxicity in the later scenes, I just think it was too much betrayal that could have been written differently. Even the delivery of the scenes that could be considered as the climax was poorly written. And the female MC being fine with the 'betrayal' and still prioritizes her desire and lust for him rather than herself just didn't sit right with me. Just doesn't add to her strong woman character niche. Nevertheless, I don't hate it as much so I'm giving it 2/5.
July 20, 2010
This book received 3 stars simply because she attempted to put a woman into a very powerful position...
BUT
In the middle of the book this powerful heroine turns into a simpering sex craved idiot, who doesn't care that she was completly and utterly betrayed by the hero. What does she do when she is confronted with his betrayal? She sleeps with him yet again.
Give me a break.
BUT
In the middle of the book this powerful heroine turns into a simpering sex craved idiot, who doesn't care that she was completly and utterly betrayed by the hero. What does she do when she is confronted with his betrayal? She sleeps with him yet again.
Give me a break.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2016
She forgave him too easily but they were easy enough to like. Can't wait for the end of the Chimera
January 21, 2017
I really enjoy this series. The reason for only two stars: what to me was clearly rape, even if the heroine did end up participating and feeling pleasure.
January 2, 2026
3.5 stars. I really liked the first 100 pages and I loved the middle too but then the third act happened. He needed to grovel. She forgave him way too easily. Ugh.
October 5, 2026
Valutazione: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Metto due stelle solo ed esclusivamente per la prima metà del romanzo, che aveva una premessa intrigante e si faceva leggere con interesse. Per il resto, una delusione enorme e una gestione dei personaggi e della trama che non mi ha soddisfatto.
Ci sono incongruenze logiche e buchi narrativi che mi hanno fatto innervosire.
Nel romanzo compaiono i diari intimi di Julia. Viene da chiedersi come potesse una giovane donna dell'epoca Regency, con un'esperienza pratica poco dissimile da quella di una debuttante, dimostrare una padronanza così teoricamente dettagliata della sfera sensuale. Quando poi prova l'orgasmo con Marcus è sbalordita e la sua incredulità e sorpresa di fronte all'appagamento fisico stridono nettamente con la consapevolezza teorica sfoggiata tra le pagine del suo diario, dove sembrava già sapere tutto.
I buchi nello spionaggio. Il defunto marito di Julia era la vecchia Volpe dei Royal Four. Risulta difficile credere che, per un triennio, l'intera rete abbia ritenuto l'uomo in perfetta salute mentre interagiva a sua insaputa con la moglie. Possibile che nessun membro dell'organizzazione abbia mai rilevato le evidenti difformità calligrafiche o la variazione di registro stilistico nelle missive? E com'è possibile che la Volpe non sia mai stata sollecitata a partecipare di persona alle riunioni dei Royal Four, visto che gli altri membri si incontrano continuamente?
Ma il vero disastro è la gestione delle dinamiche interpersonali, in particolare il comportamento di Marcus e la reazione di Julia. Marcus la tradisce nel modo più meschino possibile, correndo a rivelare tutti i suoi segreti ai Royal Four e a Lord Liverpool, al solo scopo di rubarle il titolo di Volpe per pura ambizione personale. E lei? Lo perdona quasi subito e quasi lo giustifica. E, cosa rivoltante, Julia ridimensiona la scorrettezza subita, continuando a cedere all'attrazione fisica. Questo progressivo cedimento, non accompagnato da un adeguato percorso di espiazione da parte del protagonista maschile, priva il personaggio femminile di qualsiasi residuo di dignità, acume e rispetto di sé. La narrazione finisce così per scambiare la dipendenza emotiva e la resa sensuale per grande passione, trasformando quello che doveva essere un brillante romance d'intreccio in un teatrino di sottomissione affettiva che vanifica del tutto le buone intuizioni dei primi capitoli.
Un vero peccato, considerate le intriganti premesse iniziali.
Metto due stelle solo ed esclusivamente per la prima metà del romanzo, che aveva una premessa intrigante e si faceva leggere con interesse. Per il resto, una delusione enorme e una gestione dei personaggi e della trama che non mi ha soddisfatto.
Ci sono incongruenze logiche e buchi narrativi che mi hanno fatto innervosire.
Nel romanzo compaiono i diari intimi di Julia. Viene da chiedersi come potesse una giovane donna dell'epoca Regency, con un'esperienza pratica poco dissimile da quella di una debuttante, dimostrare una padronanza così teoricamente dettagliata della sfera sensuale. Quando poi prova l'orgasmo con Marcus è sbalordita e la sua incredulità e sorpresa di fronte all'appagamento fisico stridono nettamente con la consapevolezza teorica sfoggiata tra le pagine del suo diario, dove sembrava già sapere tutto.
I buchi nello spionaggio. Il defunto marito di Julia era la vecchia Volpe dei Royal Four. Risulta difficile credere che, per un triennio, l'intera rete abbia ritenuto l'uomo in perfetta salute mentre interagiva a sua insaputa con la moglie. Possibile che nessun membro dell'organizzazione abbia mai rilevato le evidenti difformità calligrafiche o la variazione di registro stilistico nelle missive? E com'è possibile che la Volpe non sia mai stata sollecitata a partecipare di persona alle riunioni dei Royal Four, visto che gli altri membri si incontrano continuamente?
Ma il vero disastro è la gestione delle dinamiche interpersonali, in particolare il comportamento di Marcus e la reazione di Julia. Marcus la tradisce nel modo più meschino possibile, correndo a rivelare tutti i suoi segreti ai Royal Four e a Lord Liverpool, al solo scopo di rubarle il titolo di Volpe per pura ambizione personale. E lei? Lo perdona quasi subito e quasi lo giustifica. E, cosa rivoltante, Julia ridimensiona la scorrettezza subita, continuando a cedere all'attrazione fisica. Questo progressivo cedimento, non accompagnato da un adeguato percorso di espiazione da parte del protagonista maschile, priva il personaggio femminile di qualsiasi residuo di dignità, acume e rispetto di sé. La narrazione finisce così per scambiare la dipendenza emotiva e la resa sensuale per grande passione, trasformando quello che doveva essere un brillante romance d'intreccio in un teatrino di sottomissione affettiva che vanifica del tutto le buone intuizioni dei primi capitoli.
Un vero peccato, considerate le intriganti premesse iniziali.
January 16, 2026
4.5 stars rounded to 5
I cannot stress enough how great the lake scene was. Or perhaps it's simply my overwhelming love of men who are down so bad they lose all forms of control. Either way, outstanding. Spies, acrobatics, hidden identities, and sky high emotional (and physical) stakes collide in this instalment of The Royal Four.
Julia's spy husband, The Fox, has passed away, leaving the question as to who will succeed him. The obvious answer is his wife, Julia, who has taken over the role in all but name 3 years ago, but has to fight for it because she has the audacity to be a woman. Marcus has second son syndrome a.k.a. desperate need to prove himself, and his eyes are on succeeding The Fox. He goes undercover in her household, and in a move noone saw coming, falls heads over heels for her.
This is one of those stories where they establish the inevitability of betrayal early on in the piece, so you spend most of the book caught up in the suspense of how it will go down. Julia and Marcus both recognise that their relationship is doomed, so the time they have together is intense and bittersweet. Marcus' gradual realisation that Julia is the woman of his dreams is masterful, and even though he's a big ol' dum dum, I did appreciate the lengths to which he went to to fix his muck up.
Without having read the final book in the series, this is my favourite so far, thanks to Julia's strength and Marcus' sweetness. Compared to the previous book, this one has more focus on the relationship itself, rather than the steam (although there is definitely that too - hello betrayal s*x). It also has a fast paced plot and humour interwoven through it, making it perfectly tailored to my tastes. I'm a little sad I have only one story in the series remaining.
I cannot stress enough how great the lake scene was. Or perhaps it's simply my overwhelming love of men who are down so bad they lose all forms of control. Either way, outstanding. Spies, acrobatics, hidden identities, and sky high emotional (and physical) stakes collide in this instalment of The Royal Four.
Julia's spy husband, The Fox, has passed away, leaving the question as to who will succeed him. The obvious answer is his wife, Julia, who has taken over the role in all but name 3 years ago, but has to fight for it because she has the audacity to be a woman. Marcus has second son syndrome a.k.a. desperate need to prove himself, and his eyes are on succeeding The Fox. He goes undercover in her household, and in a move noone saw coming, falls heads over heels for her.
This is one of those stories where they establish the inevitability of betrayal early on in the piece, so you spend most of the book caught up in the suspense of how it will go down. Julia and Marcus both recognise that their relationship is doomed, so the time they have together is intense and bittersweet. Marcus' gradual realisation that Julia is the woman of his dreams is masterful, and even though he's a big ol' dum dum, I did appreciate the lengths to which he went to to fix his muck up.
Without having read the final book in the series, this is my favourite so far, thanks to Julia's strength and Marcus' sweetness. Compared to the previous book, this one has more focus on the relationship itself, rather than the steam (although there is definitely that too - hello betrayal s*x). It also has a fast paced plot and humour interwoven through it, making it perfectly tailored to my tastes. I'm a little sad I have only one story in the series remaining.
November 11, 2016
Abgebrochen bei Seite 110.
Schon von Beginn an bin ich nicht so richtig in die Handlung reingekommen.
INHALT:
Julia Barrowby ist gerade erst Witwe geworden und übernahm in letzter Zeit heimlich die Aufgaben ihres Mannes bei den Royal Four. Die Royal Four oder besser gesagt jetzt "drei" sind alles andere als begeistert, dass ihr verstorbener Mann seiner Frau zu seiner Nachfolgerin ausgebildet hat. Lord Marcus soll sie auskundschaften. Als Marcus bei Julia auftaucht ist sie von Verehrern umschwärmt. Außerdem scheinen ihre Bediensteten ehemalige Zirkusartisten gewesen zu sein und auch ihr Haustier ist sehr außergewöhnlich - ein zahnloser Löwe.
Der Schreibstil war überhaupt nicht meins und generell mag ich Spionageromane eigentlich auch nicht so gern - auch in diesem Buch.
Dazu kommt noch, dass es für mich kaum Chemie zwischen dem Pärchen gab und ich ihre Interaktionen nicht gut fand. Ich könnte gewiss noch ein paar Seiten lesen, aber für mehr als ein Okay würd es wohl auch im Endeffekt nicht ausreichen. Ich hab ein paar Seiten weitergeblättert und leider war keine Besserung der Erzählweise und der spröden Interaktionen in Sicht. Zudem mochte ich auch nicht ihre erotischen Tagebucheinträge.
Mein erstes Celeste Bradley Buch hat mich also ziemlich enttäuscht!
Also - Schluss - Abbruch!
August 1, 2018
De todas…esta fue la menos que me gustó. Tal vez porque Marcus seduce a Julia para hundirla y quitarle su puesto, porque utiliza su intimidad contra ella o porque en el momento de la verdad no la protegió a pesar de los que sentía por ella. No sé. Encontré esta relación algo forzada y poco creíble. Julia es genial, es una prota adelantada a su tiempo y es muyyyyy inteligente, sin embargo, Marcus no me gustó, y ahí radica mi descontento con esta novela. Claro, no faltaron los momentos graciosos y las escenas sensuales, así que igual es refrescante y fácil de leer. Si eres de esas que prefieren leer a las mujeres empoderadas, seguras de sí mismas y listas para enfrentar el machismo y a los hombres que intentan detenerlas, entonces, esta es la tuya.
August 7, 2021
แทนที่ทายาทของสุนัขจิ้งจอกหนึ่งในสายลับอังกฤษ รอยัลโฟ จะเป็นชายสูงศักดิ์ มากสามารถ กลับกลายเป็นภรรยาม่ายสาวทรงเสน่ห์ของอดีตสุนัขจิ้งจอกผู้ล่วงลับ ชายหนุ่มที่ถูกวางตัวไว้เพื่อสืบทอดจะทำอย่างไร เมื่อทายาทตัวจริงปรากฎขึ้น เสียงคัดค้านและข้อกังขาในตัวม่ายสาวเกิดขึ้นมากมาย ความขัดแย้งนี้จะทำให้เธอเป็นที่ยอมรับได้หรือไม่ตัวเธอจะต้องพิสูจน์ความสามารถนั้นด้วยตัวเอง ส่วนเขาต้องหาข้อบกพร่องของเธอเพื่อแย่งตำแหน่งที่ควรเป็นของเขากลับมา ทั้งสองเผชิญหน้ากันพร้อมเล่ห์เหลี่ยม เพื่อโค่นล้มกันและกัน แต่ทั้งสองต้องเผชิญหน้ากับอันตรายเกือบถึงชีวิตอย่างไม่คาดคิด ใครคือมือที่สาม ที่สร้างสถานะการณ์อันตรายนี้ จากคู่แข่ง พวกเขาต้องพักรบและร่วมมือกันชั่วคราวเพื่อหาตัวคนร้าย..
July 6, 2018
I needed to read a book by Celeste Bradley for a challenge and this was one of two that was at my library. Apparently since it’s book 3 in a series, I needed to read the first two because I was so lost between the journal entries and the talk of the royals and the liars, the fair folk, the lords and the ladies and the fox, the chimera, the lion, tigers and bears, oh my. Pass. Maybe the series as a whole is better but I wouldn’t recommend reading this as a stand alone as the author doesn't bother to recap who anyone is to help the reader jump into the series at this point.
December 1, 2022
I read a lot of books, mostly romance genre. This is one of the best historical romances I have read in a long time. It had me on the edge of my seat, so engrossed I didn't pay attention to anything but the book and I wanted to keep reading and not stop. I haven't read any other books in the series, but I think I might now. It had it all, romance, mystery, intrigue, an unexpected villain and a bit if a surprise at the end.
April 8, 2023
The English are on the hunt for a spy and Julia has some secrets in her background, she wants to take on a position of the power behind the throne, but there will be competition and tests before she is allowed to assume her role. Not believable at all, for sure silly, but a nice little escape read.
August 18, 2017
Strong heroine, spies, and sex. Life is good. There were some unnecessary plot twists towards the end and a few unexplained parts, but still a good read. I look forward the the last in the series
September 23, 2017
I felt so sorry for the toothless house cat. ;-)
January 5, 2020
Good book
This book was not my favorite. Quite honestly I think there was to much fluff in there. I mean it was good and it follows the rest of the series.
This book was not my favorite. Quite honestly I think there was to much fluff in there. I mean it was good and it follows the rest of the series.
September 3, 2021
The books worth reading in this series is 1 and 3. This was the redemption arc of a hero.
February 5, 2023
อีตามาร์คัสคือซื่อบื้ออออออ แต่สนุกนดีนะเล่มนี้ ชอบที่สุดของชุดนี้ละ ไม่รวมเล่มสี่ที่ยังไม่ได้อ่าน555
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2024
เล่มนี้น่าสนใจตรงที่นางเอกเป็นสายลับ พระเอกก็เป็นแคนดิเดทสายลับ มีความสนุกแตกต่างจากสองเล่มแรก แต่ก็รู้สึกว่าตัวละครไม่ค่อยฉลาดเท่าที่ควรจะเป็นตามเซ็ตติ้ง มันน่าจะมีการชิงไหวชิงพริบได้มากกว่านี้
January 26, 2022
2.5 stars
August 19, 2008
Marcus Ramsay’s day has finally come. With the death of Lord Barrowby, the former “Fox”, member of the elite (and mysterious) Royal Four, it’s Marcus’ turn to take the coveted seat.
Unfortunately, he didn’t count with the competition. There is someone else “applying” for the position of the most cunning of the Four. To add insult to injury, the upstart is a woman.
Lady Julia Barrowby has been acting as the Fox for the past three years, ever since her elderly husband’s collapse. She knows full well her gender alone will keep her from being readily accepted into the Royal Four, but she would never suspect they’d send someone to infiltrate her house.
Marcus’ initial plan is to find all the dirty secrets the beautiful, tempting widow keeps and use them to discredit her. So when he finds a stash of explicit-content diaries, he jumps at the opportunity to use them against her...Little does he expect that after only one kiss, he’d forget about his nefarious plan and want to help her fulfill her fantasies instead.
Of all the books in the Royal Four Series this was by far the worst. The plot was too slow (the “chapters” from Julia’s steamy diaries didn’t help at all), the humor flat and the action kept to a bare minimum (until the last few chapters).
I just couldn’t relate with the characters, there seemed to be no drive behind their actions, no great motivation – not even Marcus could inspire more than a yawn with his mercurial changes, endearing as they might be.
Julia was a total bore (thank Celeste for the little insight into the Jilly alter-ego) and her diaries were a little too much. She was nearly a virgin, how could she have such profound knowledge (and vocabulary) of what goes on between lovers? I don’t think they sold erotica novels in the Regency period.
Out of all the characters, Elliot (a supporting character) was the most fun “to spend time with”. He was hilarious and the tension and male-banter between him and Marcus was one of the few bright points of this novel.
Another good thing about this one was the character-from-previous-novel cameo. Dalton just gets better and better with every novel and the romance between him and Clara is still strong...Stronger and “cuter” than in his own book (The Impostor), unfortunately and much, much better than what was between the leads in this book.
Although Ms. Bradley tried valiantly to pick up the pace with the action-packed ending, this book just couldn’t muster enough stamina to stay afloat. I just skimmed the pages, hoping for the Chimera to just get it over with already! *yawn*
This is sort-of recommended only to those who (like me) are adamant at reading the series from first to last book, but other than that this one doesn’t have much going for it.
I hope Falcon’s story - Seducing the Spy - will end the series with the bang it deserves.
Unfortunately, he didn’t count with the competition. There is someone else “applying” for the position of the most cunning of the Four. To add insult to injury, the upstart is a woman.
Lady Julia Barrowby has been acting as the Fox for the past three years, ever since her elderly husband’s collapse. She knows full well her gender alone will keep her from being readily accepted into the Royal Four, but she would never suspect they’d send someone to infiltrate her house.
Marcus’ initial plan is to find all the dirty secrets the beautiful, tempting widow keeps and use them to discredit her. So when he finds a stash of explicit-content diaries, he jumps at the opportunity to use them against her...Little does he expect that after only one kiss, he’d forget about his nefarious plan and want to help her fulfill her fantasies instead.
Of all the books in the Royal Four Series this was by far the worst. The plot was too slow (the “chapters” from Julia’s steamy diaries didn’t help at all), the humor flat and the action kept to a bare minimum (until the last few chapters).
I just couldn’t relate with the characters, there seemed to be no drive behind their actions, no great motivation – not even Marcus could inspire more than a yawn with his mercurial changes, endearing as they might be.
Julia was a total bore (thank Celeste for the little insight into the Jilly alter-ego) and her diaries were a little too much. She was nearly a virgin, how could she have such profound knowledge (and vocabulary) of what goes on between lovers? I don’t think they sold erotica novels in the Regency period.
Out of all the characters, Elliot (a supporting character) was the most fun “to spend time with”. He was hilarious and the tension and male-banter between him and Marcus was one of the few bright points of this novel.
Another good thing about this one was the character-from-previous-novel cameo. Dalton just gets better and better with every novel and the romance between him and Clara is still strong...Stronger and “cuter” than in his own book (The Impostor), unfortunately and much, much better than what was between the leads in this book.
Although Ms. Bradley tried valiantly to pick up the pace with the action-packed ending, this book just couldn’t muster enough stamina to stay afloat. I just skimmed the pages, hoping for the Chimera to just get it over with already! *yawn*
This is sort-of recommended only to those who (like me) are adamant at reading the series from first to last book, but other than that this one doesn’t have much going for it.
I hope Falcon’s story - Seducing the Spy - will end the series with the bang it deserves.
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