What do you think?
Rate this book
Love and Let Spy #2
One Thing Leads to a Lover
Opposites attract more than trouble in the latest captivating Regency romance from Susanna Craig.
Amanda Bartlett, widowed Countess of Kingston, is a woman beyond reproach. Married at nineteen, she dutifully provided the Earl with an heir and a spare before his death three years ago. Since then, Amanda has lived a simple, quiet life. A life that, if she were honest, has become more than a trifle dull. So when an adventure literally drops into her lap, in the shape of a mysterious book, she intends to make the most of it—especially if it brings her closer to a charismatic stranger...
Major Langley Stanhope, an intelligence officer and master mimic known as the Magpie, needs to retrieve the code book that has fallen into Amanda’s hands. The mistaken delivery has put them both in grave danger and in a desperate race to unearth a traitor. It’s also stirred an intense, reckless attraction. Langley believes the life he leads is not suitable for a delicate widow, but it seems he may have underestimated the lady’s daring...and the depths of their mutual desire.
Amanda Bartlett, widowed Countess of Kingston, is a woman beyond reproach. Married at nineteen, she dutifully provided the Earl with an heir and a spare before his death three years ago. Since then, Amanda has lived a simple, quiet life. A life that, if she were honest, has become more than a trifle dull. So when an adventure literally drops into her lap, in the shape of a mysterious book, she intends to make the most of it—especially if it brings her closer to a charismatic stranger...
Major Langley Stanhope, an intelligence officer and master mimic known as the Magpie, needs to retrieve the code book that has fallen into Amanda’s hands. The mistaken delivery has put them both in grave danger and in a desperate race to unearth a traitor. It’s also stirred an intense, reckless attraction. Langley believes the life he leads is not suitable for a delicate widow, but it seems he may have underestimated the lady’s daring...and the depths of their mutual desire.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2021
116 people are currently reading
1042 people want to read
About the author
Susanna Craig
30 books482 followersAlmost as soon as she could hold a pencil, Susanna Craig began writing stories. Today, she pens award-winning Regency-era romance novels that blend history and heart with a dash of heat. An English professor, wife, and mom, she’s currently finding her happily ever after in Kentucky while holding onto her Midwestern roots. Find her online at http://www.susannacraig.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
June 22, 2021
My learning curve is not very impressive with regard to what authors not to read anymore. I already knew that Craig's most recent HRs have not been to my taste. But pickings were slim and this book was being offered for only 99 cents. Sometimes I just can't resist a bargain. So I suppose I should not complain about not really liking this. But then, what fun would that be?
I was once fond of Susanna Craig's historical romances. Unfortunately, her plots and characters have become too been-there, done-that. This one has a youngish widow with two adolescent sons who accidentally gets involved in a spy caper and falls into a relationship with the British spy who needs to retrieve the code book our widow accidentally finds herself in possession of. Yada, yada.
She's unawakened sexually, her late husband having been a lot older than she and apparently not very talented in bed. So our spy hero is the caffeine jolt to passion that she needs. Yada, yada.
The hero, of course, has several issues from his past he needs to get over before he can fully commit to a real relationship with her. Yada, yada.
I'll give this three stars because Craig writes well enough and, in addition, I was the chump who bought it. Craig didn't force me to. No reason to punish the author for my sins.
I was once fond of Susanna Craig's historical romances. Unfortunately, her plots and characters have become too been-there, done-that. This one has a youngish widow with two adolescent sons who accidentally gets involved in a spy caper and falls into a relationship with the British spy who needs to retrieve the code book our widow accidentally finds herself in possession of. Yada, yada.
She's unawakened sexually, her late husband having been a lot older than she and apparently not very talented in bed. So our spy hero is the caffeine jolt to passion that she needs. Yada, yada.
The hero, of course, has several issues from his past he needs to get over before he can fully commit to a real relationship with her. Yada, yada.
I'll give this three stars because Craig writes well enough and, in addition, I was the chump who bought it. Craig didn't force me to. No reason to punish the author for my sins.
March 8, 2021
I really love this series! Fun, slow burn romances with plenty of tension and intrigue. One Thing Leads to a Lover follows Amanda, a widow with two young sons and an overprotective mother who shares guardianship of her children with one of her late husbands friends. A rather dull man (it's literally part of his name which was funny) who intends to make her his bride. But Amanda is tired of having her behavior constrained and is excited by the prospect of a small adventure where unforeseen circumstances throw her in the path of an intelligence officer who serves the crown.
I really enjoyed this entire story. The romance was just lovely and seeing both the hero and heroine open up and become more fully themselves was a delight. I love the intrigue of a mystery plot here too, as it allows for external conflict that the couple must work together to solve. Not to mention, one always enjoys a forbidden kiss to avoid being discovered snooping in the wrong place. I also thought this very deftly navigated the push-pull of motherhood where you might have both a desire to protect your children and a desire to form your own identity independent of simply being a mother. This author's writing really works for me and I look forward to more in the series! I received an advance copy for review via netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this entire story. The romance was just lovely and seeing both the hero and heroine open up and become more fully themselves was a delight. I love the intrigue of a mystery plot here too, as it allows for external conflict that the couple must work together to solve. Not to mention, one always enjoys a forbidden kiss to avoid being discovered snooping in the wrong place. I also thought this very deftly navigated the push-pull of motherhood where you might have both a desire to protect your children and a desire to form your own identity independent of simply being a mother. This author's writing really works for me and I look forward to more in the series! I received an advance copy for review via netgalley. All opinions are my own.
March 21, 2023
Sometimes you start a book and five minutes in you realize that it’s absolutely not for you but it’s #2 in a series and need to read it for plot reasons 🥴
The relationship itself was fine, but I wasn’t a fan of the heroine or her situation. She let everyone else manage her and I just despise dead husbands assigning the BIGGEST twats as co-guardians of their children, with little regard to their wives. Hate it. HATE IT. Her mother also hovered incessantly and nothing was done about it. I think the guardian twat had a mild redemption arc which pissed me off.
Everything else didn’t really have depth. For example, fucking against the door as a makeshift lock (hot) was a move. Unfortunately the actuality of the scene was so quick and random?? Why were the sex scenes so short and vague???
The relationship itself was fine, but I wasn’t a fan of the heroine or her situation. She let everyone else manage her and I just despise dead husbands assigning the BIGGEST twats as co-guardians of their children, with little regard to their wives. Hate it. HATE IT. Her mother also hovered incessantly and nothing was done about it. I think the guardian twat had a mild redemption arc which pissed me off.
Everything else didn’t really have depth. For example, fucking against the door as a makeshift lock (hot) was a move. Unfortunately the actuality of the scene was so quick and random?? Why were the sex scenes so short and vague???
March 3, 2021
MYSTERY AND INTRIGUE COUPLED WITH ROMANCE
With the first book in this series I expressed my disappointment that the 'spyness' of the book was practically non-existing. It seems that Craig had it all bottled up for this book, because she certainly brought it here! However, there was one thing that... confused me. And I am not certain whether it is a 'plot hole' or just me, who missed some vital information. No matter what, it bothered me and lessened the reading experience for me...
👍 What I Liked 👍
Mystery: The first book in this series was so light on the mystery and intrigue that these two books hardly feel like they belong together. Because here the mystery was cranked up to the max! I enjoyed the intrigue, the subterfuge, the lies and the hidden agendas. It was nice to see a plot that went beyond romance.
Langley: Langley was a really great hero, I actually liked how insecure he was. It was different than other HR heroes. I really found it relatable how he tried to blend in to the scenery, tried hard not to stand out and be recognized. And how he struggled with figuring out, who he really was underneath all the disguises. And I liked that he wore glasses 😅
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Hopkins:
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 15 Books to Read if You Love Jane Austen
With the first book in this series I expressed my disappointment that the 'spyness' of the book was practically non-existing. It seems that Craig had it all bottled up for this book, because she certainly brought it here! However, there was one thing that... confused me. And I am not certain whether it is a 'plot hole' or just me, who missed some vital information. No matter what, it bothered me and lessened the reading experience for me...
👍 What I Liked 👍
Mystery: The first book in this series was so light on the mystery and intrigue that these two books hardly feel like they belong together. Because here the mystery was cranked up to the max! I enjoyed the intrigue, the subterfuge, the lies and the hidden agendas. It was nice to see a plot that went beyond romance.
Langley: Langley was a really great hero, I actually liked how insecure he was. It was different than other HR heroes. I really found it relatable how he tried to blend in to the scenery, tried hard not to stand out and be recognized. And how he struggled with figuring out, who he really was underneath all the disguises. And I liked that he wore glasses 😅
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Hopkins:
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 15 Books to Read if You Love Jane Austen
March 28, 2021
Amanda Bartlett, widowed Countess of Kingston, has led a somewhat dull life. She had a respectable society marriage, birthed an heir and a spare, and always followed her mother's guidance to "mind her step." When a mysterious book comes into her possession, she's more than a bit excited for the unexpected consequences. Sir Langley Stanhope is a major, an intelligence officer, and a master mimic. He's tasked with retrieving said book. But when it ends up in someone else's hands, Langley has to protect Amanda and her sons from danger.
This is the second book in the Love and Let Spy series. Craig is a new-to-me author, so I have not read the previous book. Except for the epilogue, which sets up the next book, this story can stand alone.
I was attracted to the cover and the premise of this novel. I liked how it started, with a "simple" book mix-up. Amanda didn't know she needed an adventure in her life, but she was excited to get involved when it fell into her lap. I enjoyed this book, but the tone felt too light for me. The intrigue was light - not particularly dangerous or desperate - and the romance was light too - feeling more like an attraction of convenience than a deeper connection. The chemistry was there but, overall, I wanted more showing than telling. I would definitely try this author again in the future.
Tropes: Widow, Spy/Govt Work, Class Difference, Protector
Eggplant Rating: 3 (two scenes, double oral)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #OneThingLeadsToALover #NetGalley
This is the second book in the Love and Let Spy series. Craig is a new-to-me author, so I have not read the previous book. Except for the epilogue, which sets up the next book, this story can stand alone.
I was attracted to the cover and the premise of this novel. I liked how it started, with a "simple" book mix-up. Amanda didn't know she needed an adventure in her life, but she was excited to get involved when it fell into her lap. I enjoyed this book, but the tone felt too light for me. The intrigue was light - not particularly dangerous or desperate - and the romance was light too - feeling more like an attraction of convenience than a deeper connection. The chemistry was there but, overall, I wanted more showing than telling. I would definitely try this author again in the future.
Tropes: Widow, Spy/Govt Work, Class Difference, Protector
Eggplant Rating: 3 (two scenes, double oral)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #OneThingLeadsToALover #NetGalley
March 31, 2021
4.25 stars - Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
A widowed countess’s dull life gets a lot more exciting in One Thing Leads to a Lover . Amanda Bartlett, Countess of Kingston, has always done her duty, acted the perfect lady, and never put one toe out of line. Then a mysterious French cookbook winds up in her possession instead of the geometry book she had purchased and her life is upended. For the book in question is a codebook both the French and the English would kill to get their hands on. Enter Major Langley Stanhope, known by his fellow spies as the Magpie. Langley needs to get his hands on the book, but what should have been a simple exchange gets a lot more complicated. Langley fears Amanda and family are now in danger, but if he expects the well-bred lady to simply idly stand by, he’s in for a shock.
One Thing Leads to a Lover is a fun and engaging read, thanks to author Susanna Craig’s delightful storytelling. Amanda and Langley are both incredibly likeable characters who are at a crossroads in their lives. Amanda loves her sons and her mother, but her life is beginning to feel suffocating. She takes charge of her life and I loved watching her break out of the rut she’s in. She’s a kind and caring person; definitely the kind of character you’d like to be friends with, were she real. Langley is a master mimic, but only Amanda sees the true man. An orphan taken in from the streets and raised to be a gifted spy, Langley has an interesting backstory that I loved diving into. He also is haunted by a mistake he made and I definitely wanted him to find peace. Langley fits right into Amanda’s family and I adored watching him with her sons. Separately and together, Amanda and Langley are endearing and I was rooting for them every step of the way. Their chemistry is fantastic and their romance made me smile. They made an excellent team as they worked together to catch a traitor and get the codebook before it could fall into enemy hands. I felt like the pages of this book flew by and I hated whenever I had to put it down.
One Thing Leads to a Lover is the second book in the Love and Let Spy series but it can easily be read as a standalone. The series is tied together by the matchmaking General Scott who is determined to help his agents find love. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed both books in this series so far and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next Love and Let Spy novel!
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A widowed countess’s dull life gets a lot more exciting in One Thing Leads to a Lover . Amanda Bartlett, Countess of Kingston, has always done her duty, acted the perfect lady, and never put one toe out of line. Then a mysterious French cookbook winds up in her possession instead of the geometry book she had purchased and her life is upended. For the book in question is a codebook both the French and the English would kill to get their hands on. Enter Major Langley Stanhope, known by his fellow spies as the Magpie. Langley needs to get his hands on the book, but what should have been a simple exchange gets a lot more complicated. Langley fears Amanda and family are now in danger, but if he expects the well-bred lady to simply idly stand by, he’s in for a shock.
One Thing Leads to a Lover is a fun and engaging read, thanks to author Susanna Craig’s delightful storytelling. Amanda and Langley are both incredibly likeable characters who are at a crossroads in their lives. Amanda loves her sons and her mother, but her life is beginning to feel suffocating. She takes charge of her life and I loved watching her break out of the rut she’s in. She’s a kind and caring person; definitely the kind of character you’d like to be friends with, were she real. Langley is a master mimic, but only Amanda sees the true man. An orphan taken in from the streets and raised to be a gifted spy, Langley has an interesting backstory that I loved diving into. He also is haunted by a mistake he made and I definitely wanted him to find peace. Langley fits right into Amanda’s family and I adored watching him with her sons. Separately and together, Amanda and Langley are endearing and I was rooting for them every step of the way. Their chemistry is fantastic and their romance made me smile. They made an excellent team as they worked together to catch a traitor and get the codebook before it could fall into enemy hands. I felt like the pages of this book flew by and I hated whenever I had to put it down.
One Thing Leads to a Lover is the second book in the Love and Let Spy series but it can easily be read as a standalone. The series is tied together by the matchmaking General Scott who is determined to help his agents find love. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed both books in this series so far and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next Love and Let Spy novel!
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
February 17, 2021
Susanna Craig, a new to me author, writes a great story about a widow, Amanda, who has no control of her own life. Amanda is dictated to by her children’s guardian as well as her own widowed mother who lives with her. When her family is accidently put in danger an intelligence officer named Langley is sent to protect her. Amanda realizes that she not only wants more control of the decisions in her life, but she also wants Langley. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington Books for my honest review.
March 29, 2021
Amanda Bartlett has always done what was expected of her, which has resulted in a rather dull life. Now the eminently respectable widowed Countess of Kingston and mother of two young boys, she craves a bit of adventure. When just such a thing quite literally bumps into her on a London street in the form of a small book, she takes advantage of the situation and the closeness it brings her with a fascinating man.
Major Sir Langley Stanhope, expert mimic better known to his fellow intelligence operatives as Magpie, has lost the confidence of his colleagues and his faith in his own abilities since a mission went horribly awry. Now he’s charged with the seemingly simple task of retrieving a codebook from the hands of a Mayfair matron. But things aren’t so simple and when the enemy learns the book is in Amanda’s possession, she and her family find themselves in danger from which Langley must protect them. He also must contend with his dangerous attraction to her. His life isn’t conducive to taking a wife, but he may be underestimating Amanda’s determination and her mutual feelings for him.
I love the premise of this series and was very excited for the setup of this book, but it sadly left me underwhelmed. I loved the insecure beta hero, but he was let down by a weak, rather air-headed heroine. Amanda lamented the dreariness of her life but refused to stand up for herself to anyone, even her own mother or the servants in her employ. She was described as being clever, but I never saw any evidence of that, especially when her behavior and poor decision-making, in the name of interest and adventure, endangered several lives, not to mention her own and those of her sons. There was an excellent opportunity for her to redeem herself by more or less saving the day but instead the heroics were executed by Langley, mostly off page, and just wound up being incredibly anticlimactic.
I also wanted more emotion and vulnerability from Amanda, especially since poor Langley had his feelings and pain dragged out and discussed openly in front of Amanda by third parties, with little input or by your leave from him. That was one of the more cringy scenes I’ve read and put me off the heroine and some of the side characters, as well as, for me, representing a lost opportunity for some endearing insight for the hero. As it was, the concept of this book was excellent but to me consisted of too much missed opportunity and fell short. Nonetheless, I love the premise of this series and there was nothing wrong with the writing itself, so I’ll likely try the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Major Sir Langley Stanhope, expert mimic better known to his fellow intelligence operatives as Magpie, has lost the confidence of his colleagues and his faith in his own abilities since a mission went horribly awry. Now he’s charged with the seemingly simple task of retrieving a codebook from the hands of a Mayfair matron. But things aren’t so simple and when the enemy learns the book is in Amanda’s possession, she and her family find themselves in danger from which Langley must protect them. He also must contend with his dangerous attraction to her. His life isn’t conducive to taking a wife, but he may be underestimating Amanda’s determination and her mutual feelings for him.
I love the premise of this series and was very excited for the setup of this book, but it sadly left me underwhelmed. I loved the insecure beta hero, but he was let down by a weak, rather air-headed heroine. Amanda lamented the dreariness of her life but refused to stand up for herself to anyone, even her own mother or the servants in her employ. She was described as being clever, but I never saw any evidence of that, especially when her behavior and poor decision-making, in the name of interest and adventure, endangered several lives, not to mention her own and those of her sons. There was an excellent opportunity for her to redeem herself by more or less saving the day but instead the heroics were executed by Langley, mostly off page, and just wound up being incredibly anticlimactic.
I also wanted more emotion and vulnerability from Amanda, especially since poor Langley had his feelings and pain dragged out and discussed openly in front of Amanda by third parties, with little input or by your leave from him. That was one of the more cringy scenes I’ve read and put me off the heroine and some of the side characters, as well as, for me, representing a lost opportunity for some endearing insight for the hero. As it was, the concept of this book was excellent but to me consisted of too much missed opportunity and fell short. Nonetheless, I love the premise of this series and there was nothing wrong with the writing itself, so I’ll likely try the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
April 1, 2021
One Thing Leads to a Lover
Love and Let Spy Series #2
Susanna Craig
https://www.facebook.com/susannacraig...
Release Date 04/06/2021
Publisher Kensington Books / Lyrical Press
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Opposites attract more than trouble in the latest captivating Regency romancefromSusanna Craig.
Amanda Bartlett, widowed Countess of Kingston, is a woman beyond reproach. Married at nineteen, she dutifully provided the Earl with an heir and a spare before his death three years ago. Since then, Amanda has lived a simple, quiet life. A life that, if she were honest, has become more than a trifle dull. So when an adventure literally drops into her lap, in the shape of a mysterious book, she intends to make the most of it—especially if it brings her closer to a charismatic stranger. . . .
Major Langley Stanhope, an intelligence officer and master mimic known as the Magpie, needs to retrieve the code book that has fallen into Amanda’s hands. The mistaken delivery has put them both in grave danger and in a desperate race to unearth a traitor. It’s also stirred an intense, reckless attraction. Langley believes the life he leads is not suitable for a delicate widow, but it seems he may have underestimated the lady’s daring . . . and the depths of their mutual desire. . . .
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she finally find her inner strength in time...
Oh my!
I do not mind a demure heroine if she finds her voice along the story, and one thing is sure, what a doormat Amanda is.
She gave people leave to walk on her without a fight and now despite her inner thoughts, she let them box her and decide for her again and again.
For the first third of the story I was upset at her for accepting dullness as her life’s goal.
So sad.
By minding her steps, she buried herself in a life of no expectation, no adventure, no passion, only safety and predictability.
Until a mix up with a parcel changes everything and disrupt her tern and boring existence.
Yet she is not one to take charge, like everything else she leaves others solve her problems.
But slowly, she get to finally see that safeness is more than boring, and for once get things for herself.
I loved Langley, with a little help from fate his life was upturned and it took advantage of it to become the better version of himself.
With such a bad beginning in life, he had quite a journey to be get to where he is today.
He used his mastering of disguise to help his country when he could have followed a different path more easily rewarding but less legal and right.
At time I felt a bit lost in the subplot, not really understanding how could the villains pinpoint to Amanda when it was for what I thought a game of hazard.
Their romance is sweet but lack a bit of sparks.
3.75 rounded up.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scene.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Love and Let Spy Series #2
Susanna Craig
https://www.facebook.com/susannacraig...
Release Date 04/06/2021
Publisher Kensington Books / Lyrical Press
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Opposites attract more than trouble in the latest captivating Regency romancefromSusanna Craig.
Amanda Bartlett, widowed Countess of Kingston, is a woman beyond reproach. Married at nineteen, she dutifully provided the Earl with an heir and a spare before his death three years ago. Since then, Amanda has lived a simple, quiet life. A life that, if she were honest, has become more than a trifle dull. So when an adventure literally drops into her lap, in the shape of a mysterious book, she intends to make the most of it—especially if it brings her closer to a charismatic stranger. . . .
Major Langley Stanhope, an intelligence officer and master mimic known as the Magpie, needs to retrieve the code book that has fallen into Amanda’s hands. The mistaken delivery has put them both in grave danger and in a desperate race to unearth a traitor. It’s also stirred an intense, reckless attraction. Langley believes the life he leads is not suitable for a delicate widow, but it seems he may have underestimated the lady’s daring . . . and the depths of their mutual desire. . . .
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she finally find her inner strength in time...
Oh my!
I do not mind a demure heroine if she finds her voice along the story, and one thing is sure, what a doormat Amanda is.
She gave people leave to walk on her without a fight and now despite her inner thoughts, she let them box her and decide for her again and again.
For the first third of the story I was upset at her for accepting dullness as her life’s goal.
So sad.
By minding her steps, she buried herself in a life of no expectation, no adventure, no passion, only safety and predictability.
Until a mix up with a parcel changes everything and disrupt her tern and boring existence.
Yet she is not one to take charge, like everything else she leaves others solve her problems.
But slowly, she get to finally see that safeness is more than boring, and for once get things for herself.
I loved Langley, with a little help from fate his life was upturned and it took advantage of it to become the better version of himself.
With such a bad beginning in life, he had quite a journey to be get to where he is today.
He used his mastering of disguise to help his country when he could have followed a different path more easily rewarding but less legal and right.
At time I felt a bit lost in the subplot, not really understanding how could the villains pinpoint to Amanda when it was for what I thought a game of hazard.
Their romance is sweet but lack a bit of sparks.
3.75 rounded up.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scene.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
March 25, 2021
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Amanda Bartlett, the Countess of Kingston has been widowed for nearly three years and her life has become somewhat boring and predictable. She lives with her two young sons and her mother, who came to “help” after her husband’s death and hasn’t left since. Her mother has taken over the role of chatelaine and Amanda doesn’t want to upset her by resuming her duties. The same goes for her boys, her husband named her and his friend George, Lord Dulsworthy as guardians, but with the exception of refusing to let him send her elder son Jamie off to Harrow, she has let him dictate things too. Her mother is a stickler for propriety and has even gone as far as to decide what invitations Amanda accepts – which is practically none, it is clear that her mother and George expect Amanda to marry George and let things continue as they have for the past few years. But all that changes when Amanda accidentally and unknowingly gets caught up in espionage!
Sir Langley Stanhope is a spy known as the Magpie, thanks to his ability to mimic anyone, so he is the perfect choice to be sent to retrieve a codebook that was passed to Lady Kingston by an agent on the street. The agent was captured but was able to send word of what he did with the codebook. Langley goes to Amanda’s house disguised as a shop clerk – but is brushed off by George. Later George takes the book and tells Amanda it will be returned. When it isn’t, Langley takes a chance and goes back to Amanda’s house – planning to break-in, but instead finds Amanda, who tells him George took the book, she offers to help him get it back – help that he reluctantly agrees to accept.
Langley feels like he has something to prove to his boss, not long ago he let himself become distracted while on a mission and another agent died – he carries that guilt and doesn’t feel worthy of the honors bestowed on him and he has sworn to never let himself be distracted again – but his feelings for Amanda make that almost impossible and after sharing a kiss with her, he knows he needs to get as far away as he can – but his boss has other ideas and commands Langley to personally see to Amanda’s protection. Langley tries to keep his distance – but Amanda has never felt so alive and isn’t about to let Langley shut her out!
This was such a delightful read, it is well-written and paced nicely, with a great blend of intrigue and sexual tension. Langley and Amanda are both likable, have great on-page chemistry and they each have their own issues to overcome before they find a HEA together. The book has mystery, secrets, betrayal, intrigue, spies, warm love scenes, abductions, and finally a hard-won HEA as well as a sweet epilogue that nicely sets up the next installment of the series. This is the second book in the series, but it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone title with no problems.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
Amanda Bartlett, the Countess of Kingston has been widowed for nearly three years and her life has become somewhat boring and predictable. She lives with her two young sons and her mother, who came to “help” after her husband’s death and hasn’t left since. Her mother has taken over the role of chatelaine and Amanda doesn’t want to upset her by resuming her duties. The same goes for her boys, her husband named her and his friend George, Lord Dulsworthy as guardians, but with the exception of refusing to let him send her elder son Jamie off to Harrow, she has let him dictate things too. Her mother is a stickler for propriety and has even gone as far as to decide what invitations Amanda accepts – which is practically none, it is clear that her mother and George expect Amanda to marry George and let things continue as they have for the past few years. But all that changes when Amanda accidentally and unknowingly gets caught up in espionage!
Sir Langley Stanhope is a spy known as the Magpie, thanks to his ability to mimic anyone, so he is the perfect choice to be sent to retrieve a codebook that was passed to Lady Kingston by an agent on the street. The agent was captured but was able to send word of what he did with the codebook. Langley goes to Amanda’s house disguised as a shop clerk – but is brushed off by George. Later George takes the book and tells Amanda it will be returned. When it isn’t, Langley takes a chance and goes back to Amanda’s house – planning to break-in, but instead finds Amanda, who tells him George took the book, she offers to help him get it back – help that he reluctantly agrees to accept.
Langley feels like he has something to prove to his boss, not long ago he let himself become distracted while on a mission and another agent died – he carries that guilt and doesn’t feel worthy of the honors bestowed on him and he has sworn to never let himself be distracted again – but his feelings for Amanda make that almost impossible and after sharing a kiss with her, he knows he needs to get as far away as he can – but his boss has other ideas and commands Langley to personally see to Amanda’s protection. Langley tries to keep his distance – but Amanda has never felt so alive and isn’t about to let Langley shut her out!
This was such a delightful read, it is well-written and paced nicely, with a great blend of intrigue and sexual tension. Langley and Amanda are both likable, have great on-page chemistry and they each have their own issues to overcome before they find a HEA together. The book has mystery, secrets, betrayal, intrigue, spies, warm love scenes, abductions, and finally a hard-won HEA as well as a sweet epilogue that nicely sets up the next installment of the series. This is the second book in the series, but it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone title with no problems.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
April 8, 2021
The Regency spy is always a fun character. In One Thing Leads to a Lover, Amanda, Lady Kingston, mistakenly brings home a codebook. Recently knighted Sir Langley Stanhope (aka the Magpie) is sent by his matchmaking superior officer to retrieve it. Along the way, he masquerades as a store clerk, a footman, and a tutor.
Amanda begins the book as a silently suffering widow, bowing to her mother's controlling tendencies and her children's co-guardian's demands. We were afraid that she would be too passive of a heroine, but luckily she turns out to be intelligent and assertive at the right moments. We also loved that the spy reveal was not too prolonged, giving Stanhope time to reconcile his feelings of inadequacy throughout the text instead of being crammed into the end. Added to that - this book is really sexy! We all know that libraries are the sexiest rooms in any manor house, and so does Susanna Craig.
24-Word Summaries:
Meg: What to do when a sexy spy shows up at your house? If you didn’t say “make out in the library” check your sources.
Laine: Bored widow/doormat finds excitement when she accidentally possesses a code book. The spy who needs it back has imposter syndrome and sex skills.
This objective review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy of the novel.
Amanda begins the book as a silently suffering widow, bowing to her mother's controlling tendencies and her children's co-guardian's demands. We were afraid that she would be too passive of a heroine, but luckily she turns out to be intelligent and assertive at the right moments. We also loved that the spy reveal was not too prolonged, giving Stanhope time to reconcile his feelings of inadequacy throughout the text instead of being crammed into the end. Added to that - this book is really sexy! We all know that libraries are the sexiest rooms in any manor house, and so does Susanna Craig.
24-Word Summaries:
Meg: What to do when a sexy spy shows up at your house? If you didn’t say “make out in the library” check your sources.
Laine: Bored widow/doormat finds excitement when she accidentally possesses a code book. The spy who needs it back has imposter syndrome and sex skills.
This objective review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy of the novel.
April 6, 2021
She was his assignment. He was her opportunity for adventure.
One Thing Leads to a Lover is a lovely story of a gentle and proper widow that finds herself involved in a case of espionage and can't help but fall for the brave but insecure spy assigned to the case.
Amanda was a 32yo widow of a man she admired but never loved. With her kids growing up and about to leave for school, she struggled to accept the imminent empty nest and the dullness of her life.
Inadvertently getting involved in a case of espionage, Amanda was approached by Major Langley Stanhope, the agent placed by the Crown to investigate the case and protect Amanda's family.
I love Amanda so very much! She was strong and brave but did not hide from her fears and insecurities.
It was special to see her undying respect for her mother despite their disagreements. In time, she understood her mother's motives and avoided making the same mistakes with her sons.
Stanhope is my kind of hero! Who can resist a man who is good with kids? Not me. He was sweet, troubled, and loyal. He had me after a few pages.
The relationship between them was sensual and romantic. They felt very right together.
My favorite side characters were Amanda's sons, Jamie and Philip. They were so different, and yet, so lovely. I'm also hoping that Mrs. Drummond, a determined widow who worked for the spies, will have a book of her own in the series.
The book has a great combination of romance, adventure, family, and friendship.
My favorite so far in the series!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*This review will be posted on https://lureviewsbooks.com on 04/07/2021*
One Thing Leads to a Lover is a lovely story of a gentle and proper widow that finds herself involved in a case of espionage and can't help but fall for the brave but insecure spy assigned to the case.
Amanda was a 32yo widow of a man she admired but never loved. With her kids growing up and about to leave for school, she struggled to accept the imminent empty nest and the dullness of her life.
Inadvertently getting involved in a case of espionage, Amanda was approached by Major Langley Stanhope, the agent placed by the Crown to investigate the case and protect Amanda's family.
I love Amanda so very much! She was strong and brave but did not hide from her fears and insecurities.
It was special to see her undying respect for her mother despite their disagreements. In time, she understood her mother's motives and avoided making the same mistakes with her sons.
Stanhope is my kind of hero! Who can resist a man who is good with kids? Not me. He was sweet, troubled, and loyal. He had me after a few pages.
The relationship between them was sensual and romantic. They felt very right together.
My favorite side characters were Amanda's sons, Jamie and Philip. They were so different, and yet, so lovely. I'm also hoping that Mrs. Drummond, a determined widow who worked for the spies, will have a book of her own in the series.
The book has a great combination of romance, adventure, family, and friendship.
My favorite so far in the series!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*This review will be posted on https://lureviewsbooks.com on 04/07/2021*
February 13, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Amanda Bartlett, the widowed Countess of Kingston, has always been told to watch her step. Married at 19, she is finally free to be herself, but with two young children in her care, her mother living in her home, and a suitor dogging her heels, she is still trapped in some way. While out shopping for a birthday present from her eldest son, she is jolted in the street, and the book she thinks she bought turns out to be a book full of French war codes, valuable to the war effort, and embroiled in an adventure than just could be the making for her. Sir Langley Stanley, a major and intelligence officer, feels guilt over the death of his comrade, and now that another has been kidnapped, and the code book holds the key to his recovery, he needs to get Amanda to help him retrieve it, and find the traitor who is in their midst. Masquerading as the tutor for the young boys, Langley moves into Amanda's home, for protection, and it's soon clear that their attraction may just be one thing they need to overcome.
I was completely blown away by Who's That Earl when I read it last year, and as soon as I spotted this one on NetGalley, I requested it. Amanda's life has been boring since she married during her first season, with a husband old enough to be her father, not allowed to do anything more straining than picking the meal options for dinner. Now widowed, she's still young, and wants her chance at freedom, but is stopped at every turn. Her two boys, Jamie and Pip, are her entire life, but she shares guardianship of them with her late husband's friend, Lord Dulsworthy, who is adamant they should be off at Harrow, and also wants to marry her too. It doesn't help, either, that Amanda's mother has moved in, and has taken over everything, from answering invitations, or creating the menu at dinner, to stating what Amanda should wear, even. It's too much, and I really felt for Amanda here - she deserves to be her own person, and have a little fun. Becoming embroiled in intrigue and espionage may not have been what I was expecting for her, but she took to it like a duck out of water, and was perfectly aided by Langley. Langley was an amazing love interest, with his own complex backstory as an orphan on the streets of London, to being adopted by a loving couple, and raised to join the military and help with the intelligence services. He's only once let down his guard, and that's when his friend was killed, and he won't make the same mistake again. He fights his attraction to Amanda almost as much as she does for him, but it's inevitable, and swoony, and downright perfect for them both. There were twists and turns that I didn't see coming, and I was again blown away by the brilliance of Susanna's writing, and her story telling. I can't wait for the next book, hinted at in the final pages of this one.
Amanda Bartlett, the widowed Countess of Kingston, has always been told to watch her step. Married at 19, she is finally free to be herself, but with two young children in her care, her mother living in her home, and a suitor dogging her heels, she is still trapped in some way. While out shopping for a birthday present from her eldest son, she is jolted in the street, and the book she thinks she bought turns out to be a book full of French war codes, valuable to the war effort, and embroiled in an adventure than just could be the making for her. Sir Langley Stanley, a major and intelligence officer, feels guilt over the death of his comrade, and now that another has been kidnapped, and the code book holds the key to his recovery, he needs to get Amanda to help him retrieve it, and find the traitor who is in their midst. Masquerading as the tutor for the young boys, Langley moves into Amanda's home, for protection, and it's soon clear that their attraction may just be one thing they need to overcome.
I was completely blown away by Who's That Earl when I read it last year, and as soon as I spotted this one on NetGalley, I requested it. Amanda's life has been boring since she married during her first season, with a husband old enough to be her father, not allowed to do anything more straining than picking the meal options for dinner. Now widowed, she's still young, and wants her chance at freedom, but is stopped at every turn. Her two boys, Jamie and Pip, are her entire life, but she shares guardianship of them with her late husband's friend, Lord Dulsworthy, who is adamant they should be off at Harrow, and also wants to marry her too. It doesn't help, either, that Amanda's mother has moved in, and has taken over everything, from answering invitations, or creating the menu at dinner, to stating what Amanda should wear, even. It's too much, and I really felt for Amanda here - she deserves to be her own person, and have a little fun. Becoming embroiled in intrigue and espionage may not have been what I was expecting for her, but she took to it like a duck out of water, and was perfectly aided by Langley. Langley was an amazing love interest, with his own complex backstory as an orphan on the streets of London, to being adopted by a loving couple, and raised to join the military and help with the intelligence services. He's only once let down his guard, and that's when his friend was killed, and he won't make the same mistake again. He fights his attraction to Amanda almost as much as she does for him, but it's inevitable, and swoony, and downright perfect for them both. There were twists and turns that I didn't see coming, and I was again blown away by the brilliance of Susanna's writing, and her story telling. I can't wait for the next book, hinted at in the final pages of this one.
April 8, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series, Who’s That Earl, but don’t worry if you missed it; the main characters from that barely get a mention here, so it stands perfectly well alone. Although they’re part of the same series, this one feels different tonally; I’m not sure if it’s the setting - the first book was set in a remote location, this one in the heart of busy Regency London.
It’s definitely nice to see a heroine who’s a little bit older and more worldly for once. Amanda, Lady Kingston, is in her thirties, the widowed mother of two sons aged ten and eleven. Widowed three years now, she’s beginning to chafe under the rules imposed on her by polite society, and especially by her extremely stifling and rule-bound mother, who’s determined Amanda musn’t put a foot wrong, and oh, just incidentally, should immediately remarry suitably, and by suitably she means the older man who is her sons’ co-guardian, Lord Dull. I can’t even remember Dull’s full name, because he was that dull, but it conveniently abbreviated to Dull, which was very helpful!
It’s entirely chance that sees Amanda caught up in the world of spies and intrigue; a spy, faced with being caught with a stolen codebook, switches parcels with Amanda in a moment of desperation. Major Langley Stanhope, also known as the Magpie for both his skill with thievery and extraordinary skills of mimicry, is tasked with getting the codebook back. An interfering mother and Officious Lord Dull make things far more complicated than they need to be, though, and Stanhope is thrown repeatedly into the company of Amanda… who quickly figures out he’s not what he’s pretending to be, leaving him no choice but to take her into his confidence.
I really felt for Amanda. She was so obviously feeling utterly stifled in her proscribed little world, not even permitted to make choices for her sons like when or where they should go to school. Stanhope must have felt like suddenly starting to see the world in colour. I’m definitely intrigued if they will appear later in the series, since General Scott set them to infiltrate the Ton.
Susanna Craig writes such great stories, and every bit about them feels authentic to the period. There’s never anything which feels jarring or anachronistic. This is no exception, taking us deep into the underground network of spies during the Napoleonic wars at the same time we see the painful reality for a woman who is, in theory, in an excellent position - a wealthy widow - who is still legally trapped by her position and circumstances into almost being forced to marry a man she doesn’t want just to keep her children safe.
Though there is a serious threat to the lives of Amanda’s children late in the book, it’s dealt with fairly briefly and the story is otherwise not all that suspenseful; it’s a fun, escapist and thoroughly immersing read. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
It’s definitely nice to see a heroine who’s a little bit older and more worldly for once. Amanda, Lady Kingston, is in her thirties, the widowed mother of two sons aged ten and eleven. Widowed three years now, she’s beginning to chafe under the rules imposed on her by polite society, and especially by her extremely stifling and rule-bound mother, who’s determined Amanda musn’t put a foot wrong, and oh, just incidentally, should immediately remarry suitably, and by suitably she means the older man who is her sons’ co-guardian, Lord Dull. I can’t even remember Dull’s full name, because he was that dull, but it conveniently abbreviated to Dull, which was very helpful!
It’s entirely chance that sees Amanda caught up in the world of spies and intrigue; a spy, faced with being caught with a stolen codebook, switches parcels with Amanda in a moment of desperation. Major Langley Stanhope, also known as the Magpie for both his skill with thievery and extraordinary skills of mimicry, is tasked with getting the codebook back. An interfering mother and Officious Lord Dull make things far more complicated than they need to be, though, and Stanhope is thrown repeatedly into the company of Amanda… who quickly figures out he’s not what he’s pretending to be, leaving him no choice but to take her into his confidence.
I really felt for Amanda. She was so obviously feeling utterly stifled in her proscribed little world, not even permitted to make choices for her sons like when or where they should go to school. Stanhope must have felt like suddenly starting to see the world in colour. I’m definitely intrigued if they will appear later in the series, since General Scott set them to infiltrate the Ton.
Susanna Craig writes such great stories, and every bit about them feels authentic to the period. There’s never anything which feels jarring or anachronistic. This is no exception, taking us deep into the underground network of spies during the Napoleonic wars at the same time we see the painful reality for a woman who is, in theory, in an excellent position - a wealthy widow - who is still legally trapped by her position and circumstances into almost being forced to marry a man she doesn’t want just to keep her children safe.
Though there is a serious threat to the lives of Amanda’s children late in the book, it’s dealt with fairly briefly and the story is otherwise not all that suspenseful; it’s a fun, escapist and thoroughly immersing read. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
September 4, 2021
I constantly want to read romance novels and then I get my hands on some and it feels like I am never satisfied, which is probably just an ordinary experience but is growing increasingly frustrating for me, who wants to read romance but not like that, not like that, and not like this. So my reaction to this book was pretty lukewarm but I don't think it was the book's fault really, it was simply ordinary and I am simply never as undiscerning as I think I am. I adore spies so much which is why I requested this on Netgalley sight unseen but unfortunately there was really not a lot of spying done, more a lot of fuss over a misplaced code book which as you can imagine was a little less exciting for me. This book falls into what I am confidently and probably incorrectly going to declare is a recent trend of having everything be soft, by which I mean the hero is overprotective of the heroine who is in turn overprotective of her sons, and she has an unhappy relationship with her mother and the legal co-guardian of her sons, the hero has made enemies of half his spy ring and his best friend's ex-wife - there's a lot going on, is my point, a lot of fraught relationships, and somehow I still wound up by the end of the book going please.... please..... can someone have a fight..... I am begging for some conflict, a little bit of interpersonal drama. Instead the legal co-guardian gets soused and apologises for being a cad, the hero is told like 2 times to stop being overprotective and somehow follows this instruction, the heroine actually facilitates a totally civil reconciliation between hero and his ex, and at the end of the book the heroine looks at her sons and is like it's fine boys :) we shall send you off to boarding school presently :). There's even this miscommunication where the hero thinks he's just a bit of excitement for the higher-class heroine and somehow they DON'T fight about this at all??? He's barely even resentful! Sir! The heroine has a tiff with her mother early on and this is never mentioned again... They are still cohabiting by the end of the book. I don't know man I hate fights in real life and will do anything to avoid them but in a book it is wildly unsatisfying to have none?? Even the actual villains barely featured, I don't know who they were working for. I think one of them might have been French?? Maybe this was a French revolution book? Actually maybe I'm doing this book an injustice because due to the aforementioned lack of interpersonal conflict my eyes were glazing over a lot during this reading. Obviously other peoples' mileages may vary on this. Maybe 0 fights is what some people want out of a book and in that case this one would be perfect. Unfortunately it was not perfect for me. Nevertheless thank you to Netgalley & Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2022
This series is growing on me! I love that the thread in the series is a nest of spies and their commander’s attempts to “retire” them by matching them up during missions.
In this installment, a coded book makes its way into the hands of a widow, Amanda. To get the book back, spy Langley poses as the tutor to her sons. Later, the villains seeking the book are a threat to Amanda’s family and Langley is charged with keeping them safe.
The stories are short but complete. While there are primary and secondary characters, there aren’t so many that it gets confusing. Other spies in the network are introduced through the epilogue, making you want to start the next book immediately…which I’m doing!
In this installment, a coded book makes its way into the hands of a widow, Amanda. To get the book back, spy Langley poses as the tutor to her sons. Later, the villains seeking the book are a threat to Amanda’s family and Langley is charged with keeping them safe.
The stories are short but complete. While there are primary and secondary characters, there aren’t so many that it gets confusing. Other spies in the network are introduced through the epilogue, making you want to start the next book immediately…which I’m doing!
March 17, 2022
Loved this so much. Why did I wait to read it?
August 11, 2025
Just barely okay
It was an okay read but just barely, a bit boring to be honest. I felt like I was just in the motion to just finish it. It wasn’t a difficult read at all and I enjoyed Stanhope’s character. I eventually came to like Amanda as well and of course Pip & Jamie. I don’t have an inclination to read the next book in the series.
It was an okay read but just barely, a bit boring to be honest. I felt like I was just in the motion to just finish it. It wasn’t a difficult read at all and I enjoyed Stanhope’s character. I eventually came to like Amanda as well and of course Pip & Jamie. I don’t have an inclination to read the next book in the series.
February 25, 2021
I really like the premise of this series! It's spies and adventure, but not too dark or angsty. I do enjoy a meddling matchmaker, and General Scott gets to order his men around while scheming to get them settled with just the right woman.
In this second book, the hero is a knighted agent to the crown, Sir Langley Stanhope, known as Magpie. He is skilled in mimicry and disguise, and he's the first historical romance hero I've read who wears glasses. (I never knew what I was missing until now.) His mission is to find a valuable French code book, which unexpectedly fell into the lap of the Countess of Kingston, a sheltered widow with an overbearing mother and two young sons.
Magpie has to retrieve the book, make sure the Countess and her boys are kept safe from dangerous men who are after the same book, and somehow manage not to fall in love with Amanda, the Countess of Kingston.
In this second book, the hero is a knighted agent to the crown, Sir Langley Stanhope, known as Magpie. He is skilled in mimicry and disguise, and he's the first historical romance hero I've read who wears glasses. (I never knew what I was missing until now.) His mission is to find a valuable French code book, which unexpectedly fell into the lap of the Countess of Kingston, a sheltered widow with an overbearing mother and two young sons.
Magpie has to retrieve the book, make sure the Countess and her boys are kept safe from dangerous men who are after the same book, and somehow manage not to fall in love with Amanda, the Countess of Kingston.
April 9, 2021
A huge thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the fact that this book featured a mature hero and heroine. Amanda is a devoted mother who has lived a shrouded life since her husband's death. But Amanda is sick and tired of shadows. She is sick and tired of decisions being made on her behalf about what she can wear, how she raises her children, even what she instructs her cook to prepare for dinner.
When she opens up the birthday present she purchased for her son, she is confused to discover the bookshop wrapping concealed a cookbook written entirely in French. When a mysterious gentleman appears demanding an exchange happen, Amanda is intrigued. Finally, a bit of excitement has landed in her lap!
The only life Langley Stanhope knows is one of espionage and subterfuge. He is determined to retrieve the seemingly innocuous cookbook and redeem himself in the eyes of his comrades in arms. His retrieval is thwarted by a series of mishaps and contrivances, and he and Lady Amanda are thrown into situations of forced proximity and assumed identities.
The closer they become, the more he unravels. He cannot resist her caring, brave heart and she tumbles head over heels for his deceptively impenetrable mask.
The plot was deftly executed, the characters were fully developed and compelling, the love story unfolded with both steam and tenderness, and the dialogue was filled with lovely innuendo.
I loved the fact that this book featured a mature hero and heroine. Amanda is a devoted mother who has lived a shrouded life since her husband's death. But Amanda is sick and tired of shadows. She is sick and tired of decisions being made on her behalf about what she can wear, how she raises her children, even what she instructs her cook to prepare for dinner.
When she opens up the birthday present she purchased for her son, she is confused to discover the bookshop wrapping concealed a cookbook written entirely in French. When a mysterious gentleman appears demanding an exchange happen, Amanda is intrigued. Finally, a bit of excitement has landed in her lap!
The only life Langley Stanhope knows is one of espionage and subterfuge. He is determined to retrieve the seemingly innocuous cookbook and redeem himself in the eyes of his comrades in arms. His retrieval is thwarted by a series of mishaps and contrivances, and he and Lady Amanda are thrown into situations of forced proximity and assumed identities.
The closer they become, the more he unravels. He cannot resist her caring, brave heart and she tumbles head over heels for his deceptively impenetrable mask.
The plot was deftly executed, the characters were fully developed and compelling, the love story unfolded with both steam and tenderness, and the dialogue was filled with lovely innuendo.
April 14, 2021
This was a really fun-to-read spy romance. I loved the adventure, the danger, and the plot in this book. Many times I find spy books disappointing me because I just didn't get enough. this book gave me a perfect amount of spy stuff happening in the plot and romance.
I will note that my enjoyment was a little hindered by the heroine at times, there were times where I just wished she wasn't so passive. I understand she is a sheltered widow with a kid, she has to be cautious, but it doesn't really fit in an action, spy book if the main character is so passive. She didn't hinder my enjoyment as much as she did for others though. I definitely liked reading her most of the time, she was pretty relatable, badass, and assertive at many points.
I didn't read the first book in this series but after really enjoying this one, I would like to go back and read that one. I am a big sucker for spy historical romances, especially a series of spy romances.
The premise for this book was super interesting, the hero was extremely hot, the steam was great, and the plot was super engaging. I would definitely check this book out if I were you.
- 4 stars -
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books, and Susanna Craig for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I will note that my enjoyment was a little hindered by the heroine at times, there were times where I just wished she wasn't so passive. I understand she is a sheltered widow with a kid, she has to be cautious, but it doesn't really fit in an action, spy book if the main character is so passive. She didn't hinder my enjoyment as much as she did for others though. I definitely liked reading her most of the time, she was pretty relatable, badass, and assertive at many points.
I didn't read the first book in this series but after really enjoying this one, I would like to go back and read that one. I am a big sucker for spy historical romances, especially a series of spy romances.
The premise for this book was super interesting, the hero was extremely hot, the steam was great, and the plot was super engaging. I would definitely check this book out if I were you.
- 4 stars -
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books, and Susanna Craig for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 23, 2021
I very much enjoyed this story. Langley is a spy who has a hard time becoming his true self and connecting with people. Amanda is a widow with a over protective mother, she longs for adventure and passion. The two meet and have a almost instant connection. I really enjoyed the family dynamic of this story. I also liked that Amanda was a older heroine, which is rare in historical romance. There was just enough passion, danger, and intrigue to keep me turning the pages. I’ve read the first book in this series, but this one is my favorite so far. I will say I wish there was a little more background into Langley. Overall this was a great read and I look forward to reading the books that come after this one.
March 7, 2021
Finding adventure and love lead Amanda to decide of her own path and future and fight for her family and happiness without doubt or fear, with the help of a sexy dashing military spy...
"Til tomorrow night, Lady Kingston. Don’t look for me. I’ll find you.” Excitement surged through her, like flames roaring up a chimney. “Really?”
One thing leads to a lover is the second instalment of a regency spy romance serie by Susanna Craig and oh, it was exciting, compelling and sexy!
After picking up a french cookbook and not the mathematic treaty she wanted, Amanda becomes entangled into a plot against one of the agent of the crown. The agent Magpie is tasked to retrieve the cookbook in order to save his friend and repair a mistake of the past... Hence begins the drama plot. As you can easily guess, retrieving the cookbook will not be easy as it changes hands and will involve late night plotting in a library with kisses against a desk, late night kissing in a Lord house while a ball is going on to avoid being caught, late rainy night meeting in gardens to secretly discuss plans of action in fine white chemises (the choice of clothes in this situation, amazing thinking from both our heroes) and afternoon sexy times in the countryside to allow children to be kidnapped and create additional drama... Our two heroes really did everything they could (not) to successfully retrieve this code book and that was such a delight! Susanna Craig wrote a strong chemistry between the two heroes and quality passionate scenes, where you are seduced by Magpie's accent foreplay as much as the delicate undressing of all the layers Amanda wears (a correct description of regency lingerie is so sexy).
Amanda is a widow and a mother of two. Her first marriage lacked passion and since the death of her husband, she lives in a very secluded and dull world that she is resenting more and more (the threat of another mariage is also an unwelcomed prospect). At first, Amanda appears to be neither very brave, confident or assertive. However, as the story enfolds and she slowly opens up to the world outside her quiet domestic life and to the excitement and thrill of Magpie's character, her bright spirit strengthens itself and she shows a fierceness unsuspected. Feeling quite exhausted of lockdown and curfew measures, i deeply connected with Amanda thoughts and feelings of wanting more, of being restricted... And i found myself craving for that surprising turn of event of a stranger to subvert everything and taking me on a thrilling adventure.
What a seducing stranger Magpie was, with his little glasses, his accent and his old age of thirty eight years. His character was quite well written as i can't quite put him in a classic romance hero category... except maybe tortured hero who wants to be forgiven for his wrong doings? Being a military spy, doing sexy accents and having a tortured soul is a great combination for any romance hero but here is the real thirst trap are the well thought, amazing executed rescue plans of his :
“Kiss. Me.” He almost growled the command the second time, no opportunity to explain his plan as the door swung inward. For once, she didn’t babble or ask questions. She did as she was told.
Besides two enjoyable romances heroes and the comedy aspect to the romance they bring, Susanna Craig also adds depth to her story, with more delicate and thoughtful scenes when writing about Amanda and her wants and thoughts of life (i adored all of Amanda's scenes in her garden) or about her characters thinking they don't deserve forgiveness or love... It was a delightful sparkly romance! It will be out on April 6th and i strongly encourage you to add it your to be read list!
ARC kindly provided by netgalley.
"Til tomorrow night, Lady Kingston. Don’t look for me. I’ll find you.” Excitement surged through her, like flames roaring up a chimney. “Really?”
One thing leads to a lover is the second instalment of a regency spy romance serie by Susanna Craig and oh, it was exciting, compelling and sexy!
After picking up a french cookbook and not the mathematic treaty she wanted, Amanda becomes entangled into a plot against one of the agent of the crown. The agent Magpie is tasked to retrieve the cookbook in order to save his friend and repair a mistake of the past... Hence begins the drama plot. As you can easily guess, retrieving the cookbook will not be easy as it changes hands and will involve late night plotting in a library with kisses against a desk, late night kissing in a Lord house while a ball is going on to avoid being caught, late rainy night meeting in gardens to secretly discuss plans of action in fine white chemises (the choice of clothes in this situation, amazing thinking from both our heroes) and afternoon sexy times in the countryside to allow children to be kidnapped and create additional drama... Our two heroes really did everything they could (not) to successfully retrieve this code book and that was such a delight! Susanna Craig wrote a strong chemistry between the two heroes and quality passionate scenes, where you are seduced by Magpie's accent foreplay as much as the delicate undressing of all the layers Amanda wears (a correct description of regency lingerie is so sexy).
Amanda is a widow and a mother of two. Her first marriage lacked passion and since the death of her husband, she lives in a very secluded and dull world that she is resenting more and more (the threat of another mariage is also an unwelcomed prospect). At first, Amanda appears to be neither very brave, confident or assertive. However, as the story enfolds and she slowly opens up to the world outside her quiet domestic life and to the excitement and thrill of Magpie's character, her bright spirit strengthens itself and she shows a fierceness unsuspected. Feeling quite exhausted of lockdown and curfew measures, i deeply connected with Amanda thoughts and feelings of wanting more, of being restricted... And i found myself craving for that surprising turn of event of a stranger to subvert everything and taking me on a thrilling adventure.
What a seducing stranger Magpie was, with his little glasses, his accent and his old age of thirty eight years. His character was quite well written as i can't quite put him in a classic romance hero category... except maybe tortured hero who wants to be forgiven for his wrong doings? Being a military spy, doing sexy accents and having a tortured soul is a great combination for any romance hero but here is the real thirst trap are the well thought, amazing executed rescue plans of his :
“Kiss. Me.” He almost growled the command the second time, no opportunity to explain his plan as the door swung inward. For once, she didn’t babble or ask questions. She did as she was told.
Besides two enjoyable romances heroes and the comedy aspect to the romance they bring, Susanna Craig also adds depth to her story, with more delicate and thoughtful scenes when writing about Amanda and her wants and thoughts of life (i adored all of Amanda's scenes in her garden) or about her characters thinking they don't deserve forgiveness or love... It was a delightful sparkly romance! It will be out on April 6th and i strongly encourage you to add it your to be read list!
ARC kindly provided by netgalley.
April 9, 2021
One Thing Leads to a Lover by Susanna Craig
Love and Let Spy #2
Wonderful way to escape! Thoroughly enjoyed this book that might not be very realistic but was definitely a fun and engaging read!
What I liked:
* Amanda: good mother, good wife-widowed, good daughter, complies with societal rules, non-assertive, bored, wants “more” – ripe for…what is coming her way.
* Magpie: major, spy, knight, mimic, good with disguises, more than he appears to be, interesting past, carrying heavy guilt, a good man – deserving of so much more.
* Major Zebadiah Scott: spymaster, matchmaker, interesting, good man, looks out for his operatives, likable.
* Jamie and Philip: Amanda’s sons, loving, intelligent, opposites, added something special to the story
* Mrs. West: Amanda’s mother, caring, overprotective, controlling, loving, put society before her daughter’s wellbeing (in my opinion)
* The plot, writing, and series
* The romance as it grew between the main characters…so much fun! Both Amanda and Langley were matched well, both said what they thought and acted assertively to achieve their goals in life and in their relationship.
* That neither of the main characters were easily cowed by the other
* The growth in both characters
* It made me smile and care and hope there would be a happy ending for everyone
* Hearing about the other spies and people working with The Magpie…wondering about them, would Hopkins be okay, Fanny, Collins, Jeremy, and others – hope to hear about them in the future.
* The intriguing snippet that is a lead into the next book
* That this book stands alone and is not a cliffhanger
* The smile it left on my face when I finished the book.
* All of it except…
What I didn’t like:
* Those I was meant not to like…they were easy to dislike and wish the worst upon
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington-Lyrical for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Love and Let Spy #2
Wonderful way to escape! Thoroughly enjoyed this book that might not be very realistic but was definitely a fun and engaging read!
What I liked:
* Amanda: good mother, good wife-widowed, good daughter, complies with societal rules, non-assertive, bored, wants “more” – ripe for…what is coming her way.
* Magpie: major, spy, knight, mimic, good with disguises, more than he appears to be, interesting past, carrying heavy guilt, a good man – deserving of so much more.
* Major Zebadiah Scott: spymaster, matchmaker, interesting, good man, looks out for his operatives, likable.
* Jamie and Philip: Amanda’s sons, loving, intelligent, opposites, added something special to the story
* Mrs. West: Amanda’s mother, caring, overprotective, controlling, loving, put society before her daughter’s wellbeing (in my opinion)
* The plot, writing, and series
* The romance as it grew between the main characters…so much fun! Both Amanda and Langley were matched well, both said what they thought and acted assertively to achieve their goals in life and in their relationship.
* That neither of the main characters were easily cowed by the other
* The growth in both characters
* It made me smile and care and hope there would be a happy ending for everyone
* Hearing about the other spies and people working with The Magpie…wondering about them, would Hopkins be okay, Fanny, Collins, Jeremy, and others – hope to hear about them in the future.
* The intriguing snippet that is a lead into the next book
* That this book stands alone and is not a cliffhanger
* The smile it left on my face when I finished the book.
* All of it except…
What I didn’t like:
* Those I was meant not to like…they were easy to dislike and wish the worst upon
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington-Lyrical for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
April 7, 2021
Susanna Craig's main characters are among some of my favorites in historical romance. I love that they're multi-layered, frequently flawed, and typically not ton-obsessed members of society. They intrigue me, pulling me into their hearts and minds with ease, and immersing me in their stories.
In her current series, which is inspired by (some of my favorite) 1980's television shows, the blend of mystery and romance, with her always impeccable historical research, has been especially enjoyable. Once again, in book two, One Thing Leads to a Lover, there's adventure, danger, sensual chemistry, heartwarming romance, and bad guys intent on causing harm to some of our favorite characters. It's a twisty journey with a few surprises along the way that kept me flipping pages from start to finish.
Langley and Amanda are both characters who spoke to me, engaging both my interest and my affection. I enjoyed the spark between them, the banter, and the fact that they were each intellectually challenged by the other. Respect and desire is a potent combination, and these two have an abundance of both. It was fun to watch Amanda gain confidence throughout her journey, finally taking control of her life and standing her ground, with both her family and Langley. And speaking of our hero, I adored his many disguises, his fascination with Amanda, his integrity, and his relationship with Pip and Jamie, Amanda's sons. In fact, his relationship with the boys was one of my favorite parts of the book. Langley also has emotional baggage to deal with before he can have a happy ending with Amanda and Craig does a good job of guiding him through that process. I was delighted with the outcome and especially, the peek into the future found in the epilogue which already has me eagerly anticipating book three.
4.5 Stars
ARC received via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
In her current series, which is inspired by (some of my favorite) 1980's television shows, the blend of mystery and romance, with her always impeccable historical research, has been especially enjoyable. Once again, in book two, One Thing Leads to a Lover, there's adventure, danger, sensual chemistry, heartwarming romance, and bad guys intent on causing harm to some of our favorite characters. It's a twisty journey with a few surprises along the way that kept me flipping pages from start to finish.
Langley and Amanda are both characters who spoke to me, engaging both my interest and my affection. I enjoyed the spark between them, the banter, and the fact that they were each intellectually challenged by the other. Respect and desire is a potent combination, and these two have an abundance of both. It was fun to watch Amanda gain confidence throughout her journey, finally taking control of her life and standing her ground, with both her family and Langley. And speaking of our hero, I adored his many disguises, his fascination with Amanda, his integrity, and his relationship with Pip and Jamie, Amanda's sons. In fact, his relationship with the boys was one of my favorite parts of the book. Langley also has emotional baggage to deal with before he can have a happy ending with Amanda and Craig does a good job of guiding him through that process. I was delighted with the outcome and especially, the peek into the future found in the epilogue which already has me eagerly anticipating book three.
4.5 Stars
ARC received via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
May 11, 2021
Thanks to Kensington Books for making this book available to me via #Netgalley.
I read the first book in the Love and Let Spy series last year and I really enjoyed it. This book is no different. We follow Amanda Bartlett, the Countess of Kingston. She is the perfect Countess and she is just coming out of her mourning period for the late Count with who she had two sons. She has lived a simple life so far, with no fuss. Marrying a man who was over two decades older than she was when she just debut. She is still being sheltered by her mother who does not want her to get a bad name like other widowed women of high society do. I mean, the scandal that could be attached.
In comes Major Langley Stanhope, an intelligence officer who has been dispatched to retrieve a book that contains information highly valuable. In search for the book, he meets Amanda and the attraction they both feel is instantaneous. They go on a little spy rendezvous, that result in an inappropriate kiss in a public space. She soon finds out that he is also the newly employed Tutor for her sons.
The search for the book turns dangerous when sex, love and kidnapping get added to the mix. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it for people looking for a crossmatch of Bridgerton and Kingsman: The Secret Service.
I read the first book in the Love and Let Spy series last year and I really enjoyed it. This book is no different. We follow Amanda Bartlett, the Countess of Kingston. She is the perfect Countess and she is just coming out of her mourning period for the late Count with who she had two sons. She has lived a simple life so far, with no fuss. Marrying a man who was over two decades older than she was when she just debut. She is still being sheltered by her mother who does not want her to get a bad name like other widowed women of high society do. I mean, the scandal that could be attached.
In comes Major Langley Stanhope, an intelligence officer who has been dispatched to retrieve a book that contains information highly valuable. In search for the book, he meets Amanda and the attraction they both feel is instantaneous. They go on a little spy rendezvous, that result in an inappropriate kiss in a public space. She soon finds out that he is also the newly employed Tutor for her sons.
The search for the book turns dangerous when sex, love and kidnapping get added to the mix. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it for people looking for a crossmatch of Bridgerton and Kingsman: The Secret Service.
July 1, 2021
This was SO much dang fun. Older/mature widow meets handsome bespectacled spy when she accidentally picks up a codebook intended for someone else and he needs to get it into the right hands on behalf of the secret organization he works for. The attraction levels between these two were off the charts, and I think the thing that made it stand out so distinctively as a spy romance is that Amanda knew Stanhope was a spy from pretty much the beginning of their relationship, so it wasn’t really something established on a lie, even if he often had to lie about who he really was to other people. It gave their dynamic a more even footing from the jump and they felt like a very strong couple throughout. Plus I kind of adored Stanhope ending up a “tutor” to Amanda’s sons and other sweet moments like that where you could tell they were slowly moving towards becoming a family. And the whole premise of the series being based around Stanhope’s commanding officer thinking of ways to set his men up with new romances! So lovely and diverting.
content notes: kidnapping of children/young characters in peril, hero suffers bullet wound
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
content notes: kidnapping of children/young characters in peril, hero suffers bullet wound
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 14, 2021
This is my first book from this author. The pace was a little slow but i soldiered on, thinking it would pick up soon. But alas, it didn’t. There was so little scenes of the hero and heroine together, there was no chemistry between them at all and then they were having sex out of nowhere. I couldn’t connect or relate with the hero or heroine and couldn’t love them because their stories were boring and they themselves were boring people.
The writing was not my cup of tea, the long paragraphs about them just overthinking and the spies plot which took up majority of the plot. I felt the spy part compromised the romance building between the hero and heroine. It was so boring that i was surprised i even finished it. Guess i was just hoping for it to miraculously get better which it did not.
Probably wouldn’t read another book by this author unless the author improves on the chemistry, the banter and the relationship building between the hero and heroine.
The writing was not my cup of tea, the long paragraphs about them just overthinking and the spies plot which took up majority of the plot. I felt the spy part compromised the romance building between the hero and heroine. It was so boring that i was surprised i even finished it. Guess i was just hoping for it to miraculously get better which it did not.
Probably wouldn’t read another book by this author unless the author improves on the chemistry, the banter and the relationship building between the hero and heroine.
February 20, 2021
While the writing, and story was perfectly adequate, I did have some trouble getting into it. I also can't quite put my finger on it, might have had too much other stuff on my mind to really escape.
I like Amanda's mind, unfortunately with a mother like hers, she turned out to be a bit of a pushover. I kept waiting for that moment where she truly stood up for herself, and I didn't feel like it was ever there. The one time where it was crucial, Langley came to the rescue, and I understood plot wise why, but I would have loved for Amanda to have shown what she was made off.
Langley Stanhope was interesting, definitely a humble white knight in shining armour. I liked exploring the many facets of his life. I do love a romance that comes with a bit of mystery.
*I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I like Amanda's mind, unfortunately with a mother like hers, she turned out to be a bit of a pushover. I kept waiting for that moment where she truly stood up for herself, and I didn't feel like it was ever there. The one time where it was crucial, Langley came to the rescue, and I understood plot wise why, but I would have loved for Amanda to have shown what she was made off.
Langley Stanhope was interesting, definitely a humble white knight in shining armour. I liked exploring the many facets of his life. I do love a romance that comes with a bit of mystery.
*I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
April 13, 2021
It took a bit to get into this book, but it was worth it. The plot developed into a lot of intrigue within the character development. It was interesting to see how the education of female versus males/ rich versus poor.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews