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The Mad Morelands #8
His Improper Lady
Some family secrets were never meant to be disturbed.
It’s been a year since Tom Quick became a partner at the detective agency Moreland & Quick, which he operates with his lifelong friend Constantine Moreland. When he catches an intruder breaking in to the agency, obviously looking for something, it’s clear that a new case is afoot. But this intruder wears an alluring scent, moves like a trained acrobat…and is an attractive woman.
After a hardscrabble childhood, Desiree Sullivan grew up to be a talented performer, and now she wants to find her real rather. All she knows is that he was an aristocrat, and he abandoned her and her brothers when they were small. When she finds something at Moreland & Quick that gives her a lead, she must follow it.
Tom wants to help Desiree, but he’s still a little suspicious of her, even though he can’t help but be drawn to her. But as Desiree and Tom dig deeper into Desiree’s roots, they stumble on a mystery larger than either of them imagined—a mystery that threatens both their lives.
It’s been a year since Tom Quick became a partner at the detective agency Moreland & Quick, which he operates with his lifelong friend Constantine Moreland. When he catches an intruder breaking in to the agency, obviously looking for something, it’s clear that a new case is afoot. But this intruder wears an alluring scent, moves like a trained acrobat…and is an attractive woman.
After a hardscrabble childhood, Desiree Sullivan grew up to be a talented performer, and now she wants to find her real rather. All she knows is that he was an aristocrat, and he abandoned her and her brothers when they were small. When she finds something at Moreland & Quick that gives her a lead, she must follow it.
Tom wants to help Desiree, but he’s still a little suspicious of her, even though he can’t help but be drawn to her. But as Desiree and Tom dig deeper into Desiree’s roots, they stumble on a mystery larger than either of them imagined—a mystery that threatens both their lives.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2021
48 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Candace Camp
121 books1,251 followersCandace Camp is the New York Times bestselling author of over sixty books.
Her first novel, *Bonds of Love*, was published by Jove Publishing in 1978, under the pseudonym Lisa Gregory. Two pseudonyms (Kristin James and Sharon Stephens)and many books later, Candace writes under her own name Candace Camp and still loves creating stories.
Candace lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband and is the mother of Young Adult author Anastasia Hopcus.
Her first novel, *Bonds of Love*, was published by Jove Publishing in 1978, under the pseudonym Lisa Gregory. Two pseudonyms (Kristin James and Sharon Stephens)and many books later, Candace writes under her own name Candace Camp and still loves creating stories.
Candace lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband and is the mother of Young Adult author Anastasia Hopcus.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 29, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
2.7 stars
The thief was a woman.
Tom Quick awakens to an intruder in his detective offices one night and during a tussle, learns the thief is a woman. When he discovers a necklace that got left behind, a gambling token from a casino on a chain, he has a clue to find her.
Desiree Malone has always had “funny” feelings and they're telling her to search out who her real father was. When the man who caught her searching his office finds her, he doesn't believe that a clue she found there proves her father was a Moreland, the family that saved him from the rookery.
Desiree and Tom work together to find out the truth about Desiree's father but as their trust is building, so is the attraction between them.
And like him, she didn't belong in either place.
His Improper Lady is the eight installment of the Mad Morelands series but I haven't read the others and I had no problems understanding the world. The Moreland family and members make a strong showing, they try to steal the show sometimes in the middle and latter half, but, for the most part, the spotlight is brightly on Desiree and Tom together. Desiree, her twin brother Wells, and their older brother Brock know their mother was a mistress to a rich man. When the twins were babies and Brock around seven, their mother and the man ran away together and were never seen again. Brock was transported to Australia while the twins were taken in by a friend of their mothers who was a circus performer and eventually ended up with a kidsman named Falk until Brock managed to make his way back and save them. The Magnificent Malones were popular acrobatic and tumbling acts and very efficient thieves for Falk. The story definitely involves this aspect of Desiree's life with having her teaching Tom some tumbling moves in a special room they have equipped to train in and incorporating it in chase scenes. I thought it was a fun, different element to add in, especially since it wasn't once mentioned, then done but actually utilized.
“I plan to do a great deal more than look.” He planted his hands on the bed on either side of her, crawling slowly up her body.
Desiree searching out if her father really was a Moreland (she found a Moreland ring in Tom's partner's desk that matches the one her brother Brock said their father gave him when he was a child) and Tom wanting to protect the Morelands from grifters, because of how they took him in as a child, had these two together from the beginning. The vast majority of the time is taken up by Desiree and Tom together going from person to person from her mother's past and Alistair, the Moreland cousin they learn and think could be Desiree's father, looking for clues. The investigation plot pace was very well-regulated, sometimes painstakingly as I thought around the 70% mark things needed to be wrapped up. This is not a story that has a quick pace and you're going to rush through, it's more sink in and spend a couple days with. Overall, I wouldn't call it slow, but towards the end I did start to get a bit antsy as a sex scene was put in and delayed some action after they learned an important clue. These two had a pretty even keeled vibe to them, Tom doesn't trust her in the beginning but as he gets to know her, he mellows (takes him a wee bit too long) and trusts her. Desiree was the open warm book we all probably wish we could be and I did find myself loving the honesty between them, no hidden truths, angst, or thee drama for this couple.
And he knew, with his body as much as his mind, that he could not live without this woman.
The pace and tone of this made me think of instead of taking a plane from Minneapolis to New Orleans, you took a raft down the Mississippi river, slower but probably more idyllic. The mystery and danger aspect never felt too urgent and you'll probably be able to glean some of the whys and hows of Desiree's parents. Tom gets a little bit of the shaft, story wise, because it's all about Desiree but I thought he complimented Desiree sweetly on her journey. If you're a frequent reader of this series, you'll enjoy past couple appearances and looks at this mad Moreland family. There was a very slight paranormal aspect to this with Desiree's inner eye “telling” her about liars and dangers, which seems to be a theme for the Morelands as there were mentions of other family members having some abilities (even mention of a witch who invaded dreams!). Desiree's twin brother Wells, who seems to be a spy for the government, and her older brother Brock, who owns casinos, each have enough charisma to make me want to read their books. You probably won't race through this one but it does have sinkable quality and sweet romance that believably builds.
2.7 stars
The thief was a woman.
Tom Quick awakens to an intruder in his detective offices one night and during a tussle, learns the thief is a woman. When he discovers a necklace that got left behind, a gambling token from a casino on a chain, he has a clue to find her.
Desiree Malone has always had “funny” feelings and they're telling her to search out who her real father was. When the man who caught her searching his office finds her, he doesn't believe that a clue she found there proves her father was a Moreland, the family that saved him from the rookery.
Desiree and Tom work together to find out the truth about Desiree's father but as their trust is building, so is the attraction between them.
And like him, she didn't belong in either place.
His Improper Lady is the eight installment of the Mad Morelands series but I haven't read the others and I had no problems understanding the world. The Moreland family and members make a strong showing, they try to steal the show sometimes in the middle and latter half, but, for the most part, the spotlight is brightly on Desiree and Tom together. Desiree, her twin brother Wells, and their older brother Brock know their mother was a mistress to a rich man. When the twins were babies and Brock around seven, their mother and the man ran away together and were never seen again. Brock was transported to Australia while the twins were taken in by a friend of their mothers who was a circus performer and eventually ended up with a kidsman named Falk until Brock managed to make his way back and save them. The Magnificent Malones were popular acrobatic and tumbling acts and very efficient thieves for Falk. The story definitely involves this aspect of Desiree's life with having her teaching Tom some tumbling moves in a special room they have equipped to train in and incorporating it in chase scenes. I thought it was a fun, different element to add in, especially since it wasn't once mentioned, then done but actually utilized.
“I plan to do a great deal more than look.” He planted his hands on the bed on either side of her, crawling slowly up her body.
Desiree searching out if her father really was a Moreland (she found a Moreland ring in Tom's partner's desk that matches the one her brother Brock said their father gave him when he was a child) and Tom wanting to protect the Morelands from grifters, because of how they took him in as a child, had these two together from the beginning. The vast majority of the time is taken up by Desiree and Tom together going from person to person from her mother's past and Alistair, the Moreland cousin they learn and think could be Desiree's father, looking for clues. The investigation plot pace was very well-regulated, sometimes painstakingly as I thought around the 70% mark things needed to be wrapped up. This is not a story that has a quick pace and you're going to rush through, it's more sink in and spend a couple days with. Overall, I wouldn't call it slow, but towards the end I did start to get a bit antsy as a sex scene was put in and delayed some action after they learned an important clue. These two had a pretty even keeled vibe to them, Tom doesn't trust her in the beginning but as he gets to know her, he mellows (takes him a wee bit too long) and trusts her. Desiree was the open warm book we all probably wish we could be and I did find myself loving the honesty between them, no hidden truths, angst, or thee drama for this couple.
And he knew, with his body as much as his mind, that he could not live without this woman.
The pace and tone of this made me think of instead of taking a plane from Minneapolis to New Orleans, you took a raft down the Mississippi river, slower but probably more idyllic. The mystery and danger aspect never felt too urgent and you'll probably be able to glean some of the whys and hows of Desiree's parents. Tom gets a little bit of the shaft, story wise, because it's all about Desiree but I thought he complimented Desiree sweetly on her journey. If you're a frequent reader of this series, you'll enjoy past couple appearances and looks at this mad Moreland family. There was a very slight paranormal aspect to this with Desiree's inner eye “telling” her about liars and dangers, which seems to be a theme for the Morelands as there were mentions of other family members having some abilities (even mention of a witch who invaded dreams!). Desiree's twin brother Wells, who seems to be a spy for the government, and her older brother Brock, who owns casinos, each have enough charisma to make me want to read their books. You probably won't race through this one but it does have sinkable quality and sweet romance that believably builds.
June 10, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up
When Tom Quick thwarts a break-in to his offices, he is shocked to realize the would-be thief is a woman! She escapes but leaves a clue to her identity – a token from the Farrington Club. It isn’t hard for Tom to track her down and confront her, but never in his wildest dreams could he have anticipated the story she has to tell.
Desiree Malone thought she had left her days of crime behind her, but when the opportunity to learn the truth of who her father is comes up, she can’t resist. When she breaks into the offices of Moreland and Quick looking for an envelope that Falk, the kidsman she used to work for wants, she doesn’t find it, but she does find something that might lead her to her father without having to work with Falk. She is so absorbed in her find, that she doesn’t hear Tom and is nearly caught, she barely gets away and takes to the rooftops to escape. It isn’t until later that she realizes she lost her token – the first one she ever won at her brother Brock’s gaming hell. But she is so excited about her find that she doesn’t worry overmuch about it. While in the office, she found a ring in the desk – with the Moreland crest, she immediately recognizes the ring as the same one her brother Brock has, that was given to him as a small child. Desiree and her twin brother Wells, remember nothing of their parents, but Brock was old enough to know some things, such as their parents were not married, their mother was their father’s mistress, and that they ran away together when the twins were still babies. Brock doesn’t know who their father was, but the man had given him a ring and that ring is an exact replica of the one she found in the office! She is sure her father was a Moreland, which in her mind, explains so much especially since she seems to possess a “gift” and has heard the whispers about the Mad Morelands and their “abilities”. She is trying to figure out how to proceed when she is confronted by Tom.
At first, Tom is sure that Desiree is trying to scam the Morelands and there is no way he will let that happen. Tom too worked for Falk, a fact that surprises them both, but he was saved by Reed Moreland and given a new life, which makes him very protective of the family. But as evidence begins to mount, Tom realizes that Desiree is not trying to hurt the family, she is just looking for answers. He agrees to help her and after visiting the Morelands, it becomes clear that while she is not from the Duke’s immediate family, she is in fact a Moreland. But even that knowledge doesn’t quell the uneasiness she is feeling and there is still the mystery of why her parents left without making provisions for them. But the more she and Tom begin to grow closer and to dig for answers, the more her uneasiness increases and it is clear that someone doesn’t want them finding the answers!
This was a well-written and interesting story that was more mystery than romance. The mystery was well-paced and perfectly executed with plenty of suspects and motives, the romance was a bit more subtle, which worked wonderfully for this book. My only real complaint was the constant incorrect use of the titles Lord and Lady Moreland, there would actually not be anyone addressed as Lord/Lady Moreland, but the author used it for everyone with the last name Moreland, so not only is it incorrect usage, but it makes it confusing to know which Moreland she is referencing. I enjoyed this book and I am hoping that there will be more installments that include Desiree’s brothers, This is the eighth book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problem, and while it is not necessary, to really understand the “Mad Morelands” I would recommend reading the books in order.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
When Tom Quick thwarts a break-in to his offices, he is shocked to realize the would-be thief is a woman! She escapes but leaves a clue to her identity – a token from the Farrington Club. It isn’t hard for Tom to track her down and confront her, but never in his wildest dreams could he have anticipated the story she has to tell.
Desiree Malone thought she had left her days of crime behind her, but when the opportunity to learn the truth of who her father is comes up, she can’t resist. When she breaks into the offices of Moreland and Quick looking for an envelope that Falk, the kidsman she used to work for wants, she doesn’t find it, but she does find something that might lead her to her father without having to work with Falk. She is so absorbed in her find, that she doesn’t hear Tom and is nearly caught, she barely gets away and takes to the rooftops to escape. It isn’t until later that she realizes she lost her token – the first one she ever won at her brother Brock’s gaming hell. But she is so excited about her find that she doesn’t worry overmuch about it. While in the office, she found a ring in the desk – with the Moreland crest, she immediately recognizes the ring as the same one her brother Brock has, that was given to him as a small child. Desiree and her twin brother Wells, remember nothing of their parents, but Brock was old enough to know some things, such as their parents were not married, their mother was their father’s mistress, and that they ran away together when the twins were still babies. Brock doesn’t know who their father was, but the man had given him a ring and that ring is an exact replica of the one she found in the office! She is sure her father was a Moreland, which in her mind, explains so much especially since she seems to possess a “gift” and has heard the whispers about the Mad Morelands and their “abilities”. She is trying to figure out how to proceed when she is confronted by Tom.
At first, Tom is sure that Desiree is trying to scam the Morelands and there is no way he will let that happen. Tom too worked for Falk, a fact that surprises them both, but he was saved by Reed Moreland and given a new life, which makes him very protective of the family. But as evidence begins to mount, Tom realizes that Desiree is not trying to hurt the family, she is just looking for answers. He agrees to help her and after visiting the Morelands, it becomes clear that while she is not from the Duke’s immediate family, she is in fact a Moreland. But even that knowledge doesn’t quell the uneasiness she is feeling and there is still the mystery of why her parents left without making provisions for them. But the more she and Tom begin to grow closer and to dig for answers, the more her uneasiness increases and it is clear that someone doesn’t want them finding the answers!
This was a well-written and interesting story that was more mystery than romance. The mystery was well-paced and perfectly executed with plenty of suspects and motives, the romance was a bit more subtle, which worked wonderfully for this book. My only real complaint was the constant incorrect use of the titles Lord and Lady Moreland, there would actually not be anyone addressed as Lord/Lady Moreland, but the author used it for everyone with the last name Moreland, so not only is it incorrect usage, but it makes it confusing to know which Moreland she is referencing. I enjoyed this book and I am hoping that there will be more installments that include Desiree’s brothers, This is the eighth book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problem, and while it is not necessary, to really understand the “Mad Morelands” I would recommend reading the books in order.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
August 29, 2021
Another completely satisfying read swirling around the delightfully eccentric / prescient Moreland family. This time with the endearing Tom Quick and an enterprising formidable young woman who might be a threat to those he loves, if not to himself. An unusual meeting leads down a long road to the past.
June 14, 2021
Series: The Mad Morelands #8
Publication Date: 6/29/21
Period: Victorian
Number of Pages: 384
Goodness, I do love the Mad Morelands. I love their quirky, fun-loving, happy family filled with strong, intelligent, courageous females and the men who are enlightened enough to let them soar. I also love their ‘odd’ talents that get them into as much trouble as it gets them out of. In this book, we step outside our regular set of Morelands and enjoy the story of Tom Quick (business partner of Con Moreland) and Desiree Malone of the Magnificent Malones. We might even have met the male leads in the next book or two – at least I hope so because I liked them very much!
We’ve met and gotten to know Tom Quick through several books. The Morelands rescued him when he was just a young boy, but he had already been through more than any ten children should have to endure in a lifetime. He had no idea who his parents were nor how to came to be living with a gang run by Falk. Tom was forced to be a pick-pocket and he knew he’d end up dead or jailed at some point. Then, Falk directed him to pick the pocket of Reed Moreland – and was caught. Reed, however, didn’t turn him in – he rescued him. To Tom Quick, the Morelands can do no wrong – they are on the highest of pedestals. So then, just imagine his outrage and anger when a woman who had broken into his office explains who she is and how she came to be – and not only her, but her two brothers as well.
Desiree Malone, her twin brother Wells, and their older brother, Brock weren’t exactly orphans, but they had been abandoned by their mother and her lover when they were just babes. A friend of their mother took them in, but as circus performers, they didn’t always have enough to make ends meet, so they were often loaned out to Falk who used them to do jobs perfectly suited to their unique set of talents. Then, they finally ended up in Falk’s gang full time and it was a miserable existence.
Desiree has always wanted to know who her father was. She didn’t really want to do anything about it, she just wanted to know. That need-to-know has been getting stronger and stronger over the last few months. When Falk approaches her again and tells her that he will disclose her father’s name to her if she will break into the offices of Moreland and Quick Detective Agency and ‘retrieve’ a document for him. What can it hurt? She knows Falk is probably lying, but she can’t see a reason not to do as he asks. Then, she is caught! Uh-Oh! How did that happen? She had just been distracted by the evidence she’d just uncovered – evidence of the name of her father.
When Desiree escapes from Tom, he quickly tracks her down and demands to know what she was looking for and why. Once she tells him, she can just see the anger and dislike radiating off him. What she says is absolutely impossible. When Desiree and Tom team up to discover who her father really was, they certainly never expected to run into danger, but there it was at every turn. Will they survive to actually identify her father AND what was in the package she was supposed to ‘retrieve’ from Tom’s office?
There are threats and villains everywhere and Desiree and Tom will have to work hard to sort through all of them to solve the mystery of her parentage – and to keep each other safe. Will they live long enough to find their HEA? It is a very close thing!
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can hardly wait for the next one. It was fun to have at least short visits with all of the Morelands, but it was especially fun to have Con and Alex show up with their delightful antics. The characters are delightful, the story is well-written, and the solution will keep you guessing right till the end.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 6/29/21
Period: Victorian
Number of Pages: 384
Goodness, I do love the Mad Morelands. I love their quirky, fun-loving, happy family filled with strong, intelligent, courageous females and the men who are enlightened enough to let them soar. I also love their ‘odd’ talents that get them into as much trouble as it gets them out of. In this book, we step outside our regular set of Morelands and enjoy the story of Tom Quick (business partner of Con Moreland) and Desiree Malone of the Magnificent Malones. We might even have met the male leads in the next book or two – at least I hope so because I liked them very much!
We’ve met and gotten to know Tom Quick through several books. The Morelands rescued him when he was just a young boy, but he had already been through more than any ten children should have to endure in a lifetime. He had no idea who his parents were nor how to came to be living with a gang run by Falk. Tom was forced to be a pick-pocket and he knew he’d end up dead or jailed at some point. Then, Falk directed him to pick the pocket of Reed Moreland – and was caught. Reed, however, didn’t turn him in – he rescued him. To Tom Quick, the Morelands can do no wrong – they are on the highest of pedestals. So then, just imagine his outrage and anger when a woman who had broken into his office explains who she is and how she came to be – and not only her, but her two brothers as well.
Desiree Malone, her twin brother Wells, and their older brother, Brock weren’t exactly orphans, but they had been abandoned by their mother and her lover when they were just babes. A friend of their mother took them in, but as circus performers, they didn’t always have enough to make ends meet, so they were often loaned out to Falk who used them to do jobs perfectly suited to their unique set of talents. Then, they finally ended up in Falk’s gang full time and it was a miserable existence.
Desiree has always wanted to know who her father was. She didn’t really want to do anything about it, she just wanted to know. That need-to-know has been getting stronger and stronger over the last few months. When Falk approaches her again and tells her that he will disclose her father’s name to her if she will break into the offices of Moreland and Quick Detective Agency and ‘retrieve’ a document for him. What can it hurt? She knows Falk is probably lying, but she can’t see a reason not to do as he asks. Then, she is caught! Uh-Oh! How did that happen? She had just been distracted by the evidence she’d just uncovered – evidence of the name of her father.
When Desiree escapes from Tom, he quickly tracks her down and demands to know what she was looking for and why. Once she tells him, she can just see the anger and dislike radiating off him. What she says is absolutely impossible. When Desiree and Tom team up to discover who her father really was, they certainly never expected to run into danger, but there it was at every turn. Will they survive to actually identify her father AND what was in the package she was supposed to ‘retrieve’ from Tom’s office?
There are threats and villains everywhere and Desiree and Tom will have to work hard to sort through all of them to solve the mystery of her parentage – and to keep each other safe. Will they live long enough to find their HEA? It is a very close thing!
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can hardly wait for the next one. It was fun to have at least short visits with all of the Morelands, but it was especially fun to have Con and Alex show up with their delightful antics. The characters are delightful, the story is well-written, and the solution will keep you guessing right till the end.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 2, 2021
Tom Quick is well on his way to establishing the stable life he’s always wanted now that he’s become a partner at the Moreland and Quick detective agency working alongside his lifelong friend Constantine Moreland. When Tom hears an intruder breaking into the office late at night, he’s instantly on the alert, even more so when the would-be thief turns out to be a beautiful woman.
Desiree Malone was raised by circus performers, learning daring acrobatics and working with not so savory characters at times when money was short. Now she feels inexplicably driven to find her true father. Armed with the knowledge that he was a member of the aristocracy, and that he abandoned her and her two brothers when they were very young, she sets out to uncover the truth at last. When she finds a clue at the offices of Moreland and Quick, she runs with it.
Tom wants to help but can’t help but be wary of Desiree and protective of the Morelands lest her intentions toward them be less than honest. Even as he tries to maintain his distance, Tom can’t help the pull he feels toward Desiree. Tom ends up helping Desiree investigate her past, only for them to stumble upon a much larger secret than they had envisioned and find their lives endangered by it.
It took me quite a while to really get into this book, but once I did, I enjoyed the story very much. The mystery and suspense aspects were lovely, as was the development of the relationship between Tom and Desiree. At first, Desiree was a bit hard to like given her sanctimonious attitude and prickliness toward Tom, who was rightfully suspicious of her after the way they met. Once the communication between these two opened up, especially on her part, I really loved them together. I liked that Desiree and Tom both had strengths they brought to the table, each respected the other’s skills, and they worked as a team to get to the bottom of the mystery. The twists of the plot, especially when things started coming together towards the end, held my attention and the ending wasn’t quite what I had anticipated, but in a good way. Perhaps my most favorite aspect here was the openness between Tom and Desiree with regards to their future together. Neither tried to play games or feign indifference and I loved that honesty.
Parts of this story were a little heavy on descriptions and bogged down the flow a bit, but once the mystery finally picked up, I became invested in the outcome, the strong writing really had a chance to shine, and my rating got bumped up. It was at times easy to lose the threads of the mystery, but once everything picked up, it all fell into place nicely. I enjoyed the scenes with the Morelands and especially those with Desiree’s two brothers. I’m hoping those two get their own stories now and I think Brock has enormous potential to be one of those broody heroes who’s never known love, which is like catnip to me. Overall, things were a bit slow with both the mystery and the romance between Tom and Desiree but once the different aspects of the plot began to come together, this was a very enjoyable story with likable characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Desiree Malone was raised by circus performers, learning daring acrobatics and working with not so savory characters at times when money was short. Now she feels inexplicably driven to find her true father. Armed with the knowledge that he was a member of the aristocracy, and that he abandoned her and her two brothers when they were very young, she sets out to uncover the truth at last. When she finds a clue at the offices of Moreland and Quick, she runs with it.
Tom wants to help but can’t help but be wary of Desiree and protective of the Morelands lest her intentions toward them be less than honest. Even as he tries to maintain his distance, Tom can’t help the pull he feels toward Desiree. Tom ends up helping Desiree investigate her past, only for them to stumble upon a much larger secret than they had envisioned and find their lives endangered by it.
It took me quite a while to really get into this book, but once I did, I enjoyed the story very much. The mystery and suspense aspects were lovely, as was the development of the relationship between Tom and Desiree. At first, Desiree was a bit hard to like given her sanctimonious attitude and prickliness toward Tom, who was rightfully suspicious of her after the way they met. Once the communication between these two opened up, especially on her part, I really loved them together. I liked that Desiree and Tom both had strengths they brought to the table, each respected the other’s skills, and they worked as a team to get to the bottom of the mystery. The twists of the plot, especially when things started coming together towards the end, held my attention and the ending wasn’t quite what I had anticipated, but in a good way. Perhaps my most favorite aspect here was the openness between Tom and Desiree with regards to their future together. Neither tried to play games or feign indifference and I loved that honesty.
Parts of this story were a little heavy on descriptions and bogged down the flow a bit, but once the mystery finally picked up, I became invested in the outcome, the strong writing really had a chance to shine, and my rating got bumped up. It was at times easy to lose the threads of the mystery, but once everything picked up, it all fell into place nicely. I enjoyed the scenes with the Morelands and especially those with Desiree’s two brothers. I’m hoping those two get their own stories now and I think Brock has enormous potential to be one of those broody heroes who’s never known love, which is like catnip to me. Overall, things were a bit slow with both the mystery and the romance between Tom and Desiree but once the different aspects of the plot began to come together, this was a very enjoyable story with likable characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
May 24, 2021
I received a copy of this book directly from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't have high hopes for this book when I first picked it up - the beginning sequence was slow and not at all what I expected, and I had very little understanding of what was going on. I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series, so I didn't know what I was getting myself into.
And to be honest, I didn't love everything about the book. The characters had a penchant for going on long monologues when they weren't necessary, and I could have done without that bit. The romance, while steamy, didn't stand out from the romance in any other historical romance. It wasn't what drew me to the book.
But put all that aside, and it was a solid book regardless.
I loved the characters, the fierce main female lead, and her slightly less sure male lead. I enjoyed the quirky Morelands and their supernatural powers. My favorite part by far though was the mystery and thriller aspect of the plot. It took me a good long while to hone in on what had happened to Desiree's parents and how it was connected to the shenanigans going on around them during the majority of the plot. It was this aspect of the plot that kept me enthralled with the book until the very end - and that's saying something. I don't read a lot of mysteries.
If you're looking for a solid historical romance, this will certainly pass in that department… but if you're looking for something a little unusual wrapped in a good historical romance, I would definitely recommend you pick this up.
I didn't have high hopes for this book when I first picked it up - the beginning sequence was slow and not at all what I expected, and I had very little understanding of what was going on. I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series, so I didn't know what I was getting myself into.
And to be honest, I didn't love everything about the book. The characters had a penchant for going on long monologues when they weren't necessary, and I could have done without that bit. The romance, while steamy, didn't stand out from the romance in any other historical romance. It wasn't what drew me to the book.
But put all that aside, and it was a solid book regardless.
I loved the characters, the fierce main female lead, and her slightly less sure male lead. I enjoyed the quirky Morelands and their supernatural powers. My favorite part by far though was the mystery and thriller aspect of the plot. It took me a good long while to hone in on what had happened to Desiree's parents and how it was connected to the shenanigans going on around them during the majority of the plot. It was this aspect of the plot that kept me enthralled with the book until the very end - and that's saying something. I don't read a lot of mysteries.
If you're looking for a solid historical romance, this will certainly pass in that department… but if you're looking for something a little unusual wrapped in a good historical romance, I would definitely recommend you pick this up.
June 29, 2021
As with all the Mad Moreland stories, you can’t put this one down. This story has humor, excitement and adventure galore. Desiree knows who she is as a person and her place in society. She has had a lot happen to her in her life and her tumbling skills are so fun to read in this story. Tom also has had a rough life, but everything came together when he met Reed Moreland. Desiree want to find her father, Tom wants to protect the Morelands at any cost... even his own heart. Together they find the answers they both seek. Love this series!
July 1, 2021
It’s been a year since Tom Quick became a partner in the detective agency, Moreland & Quick, that he operates with his lifelong friend Constantine Moreland. When he catches an intruder breaking into the agency, obviously looking for something, it’s clear that a new case is afoot. But this intruder wears an alluring scent, moves like a trained acrobat…and is clearly an attractive woman. Desiree Malone grew up to be a talented performer part of the Magnificent Malones troop, and now, she wants to find her real father. All she knows is that he’s an aristocrat, and he abandoned her and her brothers when they were small. When she finds something at Moreland & Quick that gives her a lead. Tom wants to help Desiree, but he’s still a little suspicious of her, even though he can’t help but be drawn to her. But as Desiree and Tom dig deeper into Desiree’s roots, they stumble on a mystery larger than either of them imagined—a mystery that threatens both their lives.
I love the Mad Morelands & pleased that there were cameo appearances from some of them. Tom has featured in earlier books & I loved his story. Another well written page turner with strong characters. I love a romance with a mystery & this book didn’t disappoint. I loved both Tom & Desiree & was totally caught up in their quest to find her father, there were edge of the seat moments & an attraction that sizzled. I didn’t manage to work out the solution to the mystery so I was guessing all the way through. Roll on the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I love the Mad Morelands & pleased that there were cameo appearances from some of them. Tom has featured in earlier books & I loved his story. Another well written page turner with strong characters. I love a romance with a mystery & this book didn’t disappoint. I loved both Tom & Desiree & was totally caught up in their quest to find her father, there were edge of the seat moments & an attraction that sizzled. I didn’t manage to work out the solution to the mystery so I was guessing all the way through. Roll on the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 29, 2021
The Mad Morelands are one of my favorite families. I was thrilled to see that we were blessed with another look at the family with His Improper Lady, #8 in the series. This one is about a long lost Moreland and Tom Quick who is partners with Con Moreland. I loved revisiting old familiar faces and getting to know new faces.
This story has a love affair, murder, heartbreak, vengeance, love and acceptance, finding who you are, heartbreak, a beautiful journey to HEA. This will definitely go on the re-read pile.
This story has a love affair, murder, heartbreak, vengeance, love and acceptance, finding who you are, heartbreak, a beautiful journey to HEA. This will definitely go on the re-read pile.
June 25, 2021
This was the first Moreland related book I've read from Candace Camp and I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy it! I'm a fan of Camp's other novels but when I first encountered the Mad Morelands series and saw that it had a fantasy element I wasn't overly interested, since I enjoy historical romance without fantasy or paranormal elements. After giving this one a try though I see that the fantasy element is very light indeed and that I did not find it as uninteresting as I'd expected. The mystery and suspense of this story was really good, I definitely was on pins and needles waiting to see the outcome, though the villain seemed pretty obvious fairly early on, certainly by the 60% point it seemed clear who it was going to be but there was still a lot of other parts that kept me on pins and needles. I especially enjoyed the introduction of the brothers and I'm intrigued to get their stories in the future. Overall the Malone's were much more interesting to me than the Morelands so I'm not upset to have come in to the series at this point. I thought the mystery was more engaging than the romance, though it was fine and developed at a believable pace, which I liked. It was not inta-love or even insta-lust-fall-into-bed-right-away so that made me happy. I did not feel that the characters were as deeply developed as I like, which left the story feeling a bit more light-hearted than my preference, I do enjoy a bit more emotionality and angst, but that's just personal preference. All in all this was excellent and certainly captured my attention, I read it all within 24 hours.
June 18, 2021
Tom Quick, a co-partner in a detective agency, is determined to solve the mystery of who broke into the agency's office. He nearly caught the intruder and much to his surprise he finds out it's a woman, Desiree Malone. Desiree has agreed to "steal" correspondence in exchange for information about who her father was. Much against his better judgment, Tom agrees to help Desiree and little did they know, they would be thrown into a larger and more deadly quest to find the truth.
This was another ambitious mystery/romance from Ms. Camp involving the Moreland family. Tom has always been protective of the family ever since he was rescued from the streets of London when he was a child and given the opportunity to change his life. He resists every attempt by Desiree to paint the family of deception and wrongdoing. I really liked Tom. He was such an upstanding guy, but it took someone like Desiree who has a strong "intuition" about people and things to really unleash his romantic self. The romance in the book is second behind the mystery driving the plot. I wasn't interested in the sex scenes and skipped most of them so I could find out exactly who the Malone children are. Some of the book is a bit long-winded, but overall, this is another winner from Ms. Camp.
This was another ambitious mystery/romance from Ms. Camp involving the Moreland family. Tom has always been protective of the family ever since he was rescued from the streets of London when he was a child and given the opportunity to change his life. He resists every attempt by Desiree to paint the family of deception and wrongdoing. I really liked Tom. He was such an upstanding guy, but it took someone like Desiree who has a strong "intuition" about people and things to really unleash his romantic self. The romance in the book is second behind the mystery driving the plot. I wasn't interested in the sex scenes and skipped most of them so I could find out exactly who the Malone children are. Some of the book is a bit long-winded, but overall, this is another winner from Ms. Camp.
January 1, 2022
When Tom Quick catches a thief in the office of his detective agency, he does not expect to fall in love with her. Mind you, he does admire the agility with which she escapes; and when he tracks her down to a gambling club, the attraction between the two is instantaneous. Desiree Malone is trying to discover the identity of her father, an aristocrat who disappeared with her mother (his mistress) while she was still a child, and when she suggests they work on it together, he reluctantly agrees. They soon identify the father, but why did both parents abandon their children so abruptly? And who is trying to discourage their inquiries?
This is an involving story, and as the pair unravel the mysteries and elude danger, they fall more deeply in love, despite their determination to protect their hearts and independence. Both are admirable and sympathetic figures; they are surrounded by an intriguing and eccentric cast of characters; and the plot is fast-moving and satisfying, despite the extensive description of their sexual encounters. It does drift towards melodrama at times, but that is not unexpected in a Victorian romance. Book 8 in the Mad Morelands series. Strongly recommended.
Issue 97 (August 2021)
This is an involving story, and as the pair unravel the mysteries and elude danger, they fall more deeply in love, despite their determination to protect their hearts and independence. Both are admirable and sympathetic figures; they are surrounded by an intriguing and eccentric cast of characters; and the plot is fast-moving and satisfying, despite the extensive description of their sexual encounters. It does drift towards melodrama at times, but that is not unexpected in a Victorian romance. Book 8 in the Mad Morelands series. Strongly recommended.
Issue 97 (August 2021)
June 1, 2021
Suspend disbelief and you can really enjoy this Victorian-age romance. This is an enjoyable new entry in Camp’s series about various members of the eccentric Moreland family. In this one, the hero, Tom Quick, is the orphan boy that the family brought into their fold when he was caught picking the pocket of one of the family. Now he’s all grown up and working in a detective agency. He gets involved helping that enticing Desiree Malone track down clues trying to figure out the mystery of her father and what happened to her parents when they seemingly abandoned her and her brothers when they were little. Throw in some mysterious extra-sensory powers and Cirque du Soleil-like acrobatic skills and Desiree is one very attractive woman for Tom. Yes, she’s improper, but then Tom would never have wanted a proper lady so they’re just right for each other.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
June 16, 2021
We've seen Tom Quick grow up from a street urchin rescued by one of the Morelands to a man who is running a detective agency. When he sees an intruder one night, he's immediately intrigued. She's a woman! But why has she invaded his agency?
Desiree Sullivan and her brothers have worked hard for every penny that they have. Granted, a lot of their pennies came from thievery but they've had a hard life. At least until her oldest brother came back from Australia with a fortune. Now he owns a casino and Desiree uses her talent (an inner eye for lack of a better word) to determine when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em. But she and Tom decide to join forces to figure out how her past intersects his.
As long as most of the other books in this series, this definitely follows the same path and regular readers will enjoy it. I don't think you need to have read the rest of the books in the series but it certainly does help to know who everyone is.
Desiree Sullivan and her brothers have worked hard for every penny that they have. Granted, a lot of their pennies came from thievery but they've had a hard life. At least until her oldest brother came back from Australia with a fortune. Now he owns a casino and Desiree uses her talent (an inner eye for lack of a better word) to determine when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em. But she and Tom decide to join forces to figure out how her past intersects his.
As long as most of the other books in this series, this definitely follows the same path and regular readers will enjoy it. I don't think you need to have read the rest of the books in the series but it certainly does help to know who everyone is.
June 21, 2021
PERFECTION!!!! His Improper Lady by Candace Camp is book 8 in tThe Mad Morelands series and this book is perfection!! Mystery, adventure, chases across roof tops and of course love… what more could you ask for. Though in a series this book can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend your read the whole series so you can get to know the whole Mad Moreland’s family. Candace is one of the top authors of today and this book will not disappoint. I can’t say enough it is so good. I couldn’t put it down. This story has a very strong women, orphans, looking for one’s father, a good and honorable man, pickpockets as children, a loving family, acceptance, wanting to find the truth, an acrobat, twins, a gambling hell, a break in, missing persons and finding love. This book has it all and I am highly recommending you read this book…You won’t be able to put it down either!!
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
August 29, 2021
I think this is the first historical romance I've read where both people involved weren't lords/ladies? which was cool... but at the same time I think I like the fantasy of being wealthy, influential blah blah blah. I say this while completely recognizing that all of these HR are whitewashed/making it seem like these people were actually good people etc and I know that's not always true/they're racist/sexist etc. but in my romance reading, I want to have a fantasy where I'm benefiting from capitalism instead of being exhausted and oppressed by it okay?
wow that was probably too random for this let's get back to the book...
I didn't love it. Camp has written some of my favorite HR books, though again I'm having a real issue recently with the naiveté that HR authors love to give their heroines. I just don't believe it. ever.
this was overall cool but definitely not my favorite of her books. I'd definitely recommend it though, especially if you enjoy this series, as I have.
wow that was probably too random for this let's get back to the book...
I didn't love it. Camp has written some of my favorite HR books, though again I'm having a real issue recently with the naiveté that HR authors love to give their heroines. I just don't believe it. ever.
this was overall cool but definitely not my favorite of her books. I'd definitely recommend it though, especially if you enjoy this series, as I have.
June 29, 2021
His Improper Lady is book #8 in The Mad Morelands series, but it can be read a stand-alone story - it was my case and what a pleasant surprise!
Tom Quick had no idea how his life would change when he stopped an intruder from stealing something in the detective agency he shares with long-time friend Con Moreland. After some investigation, he finds out that the intruder was Desiree Malone, a young woman who had a similar past, which means they grew up in East End, "working" for a swindler.
Yet Tom isn't sure whether he can trust Desiree after such a beginning. Especially because Desiree insists that her father may be a Moreland, and Tom is afraid that she only wants to take advantage of his foster family.
I loved reading this book and I'm running to catch up with this series.
Tom Quick had no idea how his life would change when he stopped an intruder from stealing something in the detective agency he shares with long-time friend Con Moreland. After some investigation, he finds out that the intruder was Desiree Malone, a young woman who had a similar past, which means they grew up in East End, "working" for a swindler.
Yet Tom isn't sure whether he can trust Desiree after such a beginning. Especially because Desiree insists that her father may be a Moreland, and Tom is afraid that she only wants to take advantage of his foster family.
I loved reading this book and I'm running to catch up with this series.
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February 1, 2025Interesting choice of professions for protagonists - one a former acrobat and the other a private detective. But both of them are former criminals as children. Therefore, they both have within them the delicate balance of "proper" and "improper" - that is, lower class vs. upper class. They feel they don't fit in either world. They also have a quest unlike most in romance novels - Desiree wants to know who her parents are and what happened to them. So these factors make this a very original story. It was pretty obvious to me what happened to her mother, but still the conclusion is somewhat shocking. I found it very entertaining.
May 21, 2021
His Improper Lady is an exciting mystery that often seems like a trip through a maze. There are numerous versions of “the truth,” threats of blackmail, physical attacks, a heated romance, a little mysticism, and naturally, a lot of Morelands...some series fans are familiar with and some more distant relatives. Fans know that Candace Camp’s Regency period main characters never are stuffy or particularly stifled by propriety which makes the series so enjoyable. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.
July 1, 2021
A little romance and a lot of mystery. That's the best way to describe the book. I have to admit I have never been a Moorland fan. Maybe it's because there were long periods of time between reading one book and then the next one. This one I absolutely love! There is such a great mystery to solve with so many suspects and lots of twists and turns. Top that off with some sweet romance and you have a book you can't let go of. It's a great read and now I'm convinced I need to go back to the previous books and reread them all and I'll end up loving them, too.
August 31, 2021
This romantic suspense Victorian historical begins with Tom Quick of the Moreland & Quick Detective Agency discovering an intruder in his office in the dead of night. He is astonished to discover that not only is the potential thief a woman but an acrobat as well. Desiree Malone is trying to discover her paternity. Tom is intrigued by her and goes on a search of his own. The two join forces and discover they have much in common. Desiree's paternity search puts them both in danger. These are fascinating characters. A page-turner!
October 18, 2021
I enjoyed this. It's not often, in this genre, that one finds a story about those between the aristocracy and the poor. Desiree seeks the identity of her father. That mystery twists and turns into other mysteries which need to be solved along the way. Tom is just the man to help since her first action was to break into his office. All the characters are engaging and the mystery/mysteries are intriguing. This well written story flows well with no stumbles or hiccups.
Excellent.
Excellent.
March 10, 2022
I enjoyed the main couple and the FMC’s brothers, but there are too many red herrings in this book’s main mystery. The dialogue is occasionally repetitive and it takes a little too long for the couple to work out their differences. It is a good read and I will definitely read some of the others, but it’s not an A+
March 11, 2022
Coming in cold to the eighth book in a series left me confused at points, and while I loved the quirkiness and background of the main character, she can't help but fade once brought into the titular mad family. A romantic-suspense, the suspense plot threatens to overwhelm the romance as things rush to the end, but it's a breezy fun read, despite a few sombre notes.
June 28, 2021
How great. We get three new Morelands. Desiree Malone is one of the new Morelands and Tom Quick is out to get her. Funny how it turned out. The closer he got the more he liked then loved. Great story with a mystery that brings on the romance. I did know who done it but no spoilers.
September 9, 2021
This book was a disappointment
No fun no warmth no passion this book held nothing.
I loved all the other book and I mean all the other books Ms. Camp writes.
I not sure Ms. Camp wrote this book, it was nothing like her other books.
This book just makes me sad.
No fun no warmth no passion this book held nothing.
I loved all the other book and I mean all the other books Ms. Camp writes.
I not sure Ms. Camp wrote this book, it was nothing like her other books.
This book just makes me sad.
January 22, 2022
If Candace Camp hasn’t already, she would be fantastic at writing mysteries. I would love a detective series featuring Tom and Desiree.
But seriously, a historical mystery romance? I didn’t know I needed this in my life so much. If I ever get to it, I’ll likely read more from her!!
But seriously, a historical mystery romance? I didn’t know I needed this in my life so much. If I ever get to it, I’ll likely read more from her!!
December 3, 2022
I enjoyed this book more than I originally expected!
I thought it was going to be a cliche romance, but I was actually hooked by the plot. The romance between the main characters is fine and well, but the mystery that they solve together had me on the edge of my seat!
I thought it was going to be a cliche romance, but I was actually hooked by the plot. The romance between the main characters is fine and well, but the mystery that they solve together had me on the edge of my seat!
August 30, 2021
Another strong 4 stars for this series. I didn’t realize Tom would get his book, too. Love this 😍
October 7, 2021
since even the reviews cannot summon my memory of how i liked this, have randomly assigned the mid range. sorry.
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