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Lords of the Armory #3
An Extraordinary Lord
A steamy historical romance set in Anna Harrington's star-studded Regency world.
Soldier turned solicitor Lord Merritt Rivers has dedicated his life to upholding the law. He patrols the streets faithfully, hoping to stop crimes before they can happen. While hunting an escaped convict, he encounters a woman also hunting thieves. She's a delicious distraction, until he discovers that she is the criminal he's after. She's smart, challenging, and everything he finds attractive, but he cannot trust her.
Veronica Chase has hidden her past as a nobleman's daughter. She confesses to a crime to keep her adopted brother out of prison. She now lives in London's underworld, trapped between worlds, belonging nowhere.
Forming an uneasy alliance, Veronica and Merritt work together to protect innocent Londoners during the city's riots. Moving between her world and his, they grow closer to each other and to the mob's dangerous leaders. But their newfound trust won't be enough, until each face their demons and ask what's worth saving―the lives they've chosen to lead or the love that leaves them yearning for more.
Soldier turned solicitor Lord Merritt Rivers has dedicated his life to upholding the law. He patrols the streets faithfully, hoping to stop crimes before they can happen. While hunting an escaped convict, he encounters a woman also hunting thieves. She's a delicious distraction, until he discovers that she is the criminal he's after. She's smart, challenging, and everything he finds attractive, but he cannot trust her.
Veronica Chase has hidden her past as a nobleman's daughter. She confesses to a crime to keep her adopted brother out of prison. She now lives in London's underworld, trapped between worlds, belonging nowhere.
Forming an uneasy alliance, Veronica and Merritt work together to protect innocent Londoners during the city's riots. Moving between her world and his, they grow closer to each other and to the mob's dangerous leaders. But their newfound trust won't be enough, until each face their demons and ask what's worth saving―the lives they've chosen to lead or the love that leaves them yearning for more.
312 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 29, 2021
51 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
Anna Harrington
41 books772 followersI fell in love with historical romances and all things Regency—and especially all those dashing Regency heroes—while living in England, where I spent most of my time studying the Romantic poets, reading Jane Austen, and getting lost all over the English countryside.
When I read my first Regency romance in 2012, I was hooked and longed to create my own independent and spirited heroines and dashing heroes. The best part of writing historical romances is falling into history—to live in the world of Regency England through my characters, with dazzling balls, beautiful dresses, and gorgeous houses that I would otherwise never be able to experience. I love the period’s rich history and find that all those rules of etiquette and propriety can be worked to the heroine’s advantage…if she’s daring enough to seize her dreams.
In addition to earning my degrees in the U.S., I have studied theatre in London, Mexican history in Guadalajara, and Spanish in Ecuador. I am an avid traveler and have enjoyed visiting schools and volunteering with children's organizations in Peru, Ecuador, Thailand, and Mexico, and I have amassed thousands of photos I unleash on unsuspecting friends who dare to ask about my travels.
I love to be outdoors! I've been hiking in Alaska, the Andes, and the Alps, including one week spent dangling off the via ferrata in the Italian Dolomites, and I love whitewater rafting (when I don't fall in!). I earned my pilot’s license at Chicago Midway (To all the controllers in Chicago Center—I greatly apologize for every problem I caused for you and Southwest Airlines), and it is my dream to one-day fly in a hot-air balloon over Africa.
I adore all things chocolate, shamelessly dive into ice cream of any flavor, and guzzle Kona coffee by the gallon. A Doctor Who fanatic (everyone says my house is bigger on the inside), I am a terrible cook who hopes to one day use my oven for something other than shoe storage. When I'm not writing, I like to spend my time trying not to kill the innocent rose bushes in my garden.
When I read my first Regency romance in 2012, I was hooked and longed to create my own independent and spirited heroines and dashing heroes. The best part of writing historical romances is falling into history—to live in the world of Regency England through my characters, with dazzling balls, beautiful dresses, and gorgeous houses that I would otherwise never be able to experience. I love the period’s rich history and find that all those rules of etiquette and propriety can be worked to the heroine’s advantage…if she’s daring enough to seize her dreams.
In addition to earning my degrees in the U.S., I have studied theatre in London, Mexican history in Guadalajara, and Spanish in Ecuador. I am an avid traveler and have enjoyed visiting schools and volunteering with children's organizations in Peru, Ecuador, Thailand, and Mexico, and I have amassed thousands of photos I unleash on unsuspecting friends who dare to ask about my travels.
I love to be outdoors! I've been hiking in Alaska, the Andes, and the Alps, including one week spent dangling off the via ferrata in the Italian Dolomites, and I love whitewater rafting (when I don't fall in!). I earned my pilot’s license at Chicago Midway (To all the controllers in Chicago Center—I greatly apologize for every problem I caused for you and Southwest Airlines), and it is my dream to one-day fly in a hot-air balloon over Africa.
I adore all things chocolate, shamelessly dive into ice cream of any flavor, and guzzle Kona coffee by the gallon. A Doctor Who fanatic (everyone says my house is bigger on the inside), I am a terrible cook who hopes to one day use my oven for something other than shoe storage. When I'm not writing, I like to spend my time trying not to kill the innocent rose bushes in my garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
June 30, 2021
I REALLY WANTED TO LOVE THIS BUT THE AWFUL FACT IS THAT I JUST DIDN'T
The first book in this series was SO amazing! One of my favourite historical romance reads ever. So perhaps I had too high hopes for the rest of the series. But the fact remains that since that first book, none of the rest have impressed me. And this one, the 3rd in the series, least of all.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Lust: Our two MCs, Merrit and Veronica, have an instant attraction but as far as I am concerned, it never moved past lust. I didn't feel any romance between the two, only raw attraction.
Repetition: This story repeated itself time and time again. Either there was fighting or there was sex. Very little else happened.
No depth: This felt like a smoke and mirrors situation. There's a lot going on all the time - with the sex and the action - but underneath that there really isn't all that much to get into. There's hardly any emotions or plot at all, so it just felt slightly shallow.
Characters: Shallow is, coincidentally, also the word I would use to describe the characters. At least in the sense that didn't feel that fleshed out. They felt glossed over and without any content.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Blog Post: 15 Bookworm Problems
The first book in this series was SO amazing! One of my favourite historical romance reads ever. So perhaps I had too high hopes for the rest of the series. But the fact remains that since that first book, none of the rest have impressed me. And this one, the 3rd in the series, least of all.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Lust: Our two MCs, Merrit and Veronica, have an instant attraction but as far as I am concerned, it never moved past lust. I didn't feel any romance between the two, only raw attraction.
Repetition: This story repeated itself time and time again. Either there was fighting or there was sex. Very little else happened.
No depth: This felt like a smoke and mirrors situation. There's a lot going on all the time - with the sex and the action - but underneath that there really isn't all that much to get into. There's hardly any emotions or plot at all, so it just felt slightly shallow.
Characters: Shallow is, coincidentally, also the word I would use to describe the characters. At least in the sense that didn't feel that fleshed out. They felt glossed over and without any content.
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 Bookworm Problems
June 15, 2021
Series: Lords of the Armory #3
Publication Date: 6/29/21
Period: Regency London - 1816
Number of Pages: 384
OMGoodness! What an exciting, wild ride this was! With non-stop action, engrossing mystery, and fascinating characters you’ll find yourself totally unable to put this book down. Seriously, don’t start reading it in the evening if you need to get up the next morning! While this book can be read as a standalone, to get the full understanding and enjoyment of the overarching story of the series, you’ll want to read them all.
Rioting has become rampant in London and it is getting more and more violent. The Home Office and the men of the Armory are sure that Scepter is behind the riots just as they have been behind all of the plots in London over the last while. As they investigate more, they learn the ultimate goal of the Scepter organization – just not WHO is behind it. The goal is diabolical and if it is successful, it will be the end of everything England is and everything it stands for.
Merritt Rivers had a life-altering tragedy in his life five years ago and it has driven his every move since then. He immediately left London and bought himself a commission in the army where he spent the next several years fighting Napoleon. He used those years to hone his fighting skills and now that he has returned, he prowls the night looking for the man who changed his life. When he finds him …
Merritt is a gifted barrister, and now he has become a blasted baron thanks to Prinny. He is, essentially, two men – one who upholds the law and fights for justice during the day – and another who prowls the lowliest neighborhoods in London by night. He’s also a member of the Armory, a group of returned soldiers who are still fighting for England – just behind the scenes. On one of his nightly prowls, he hears raised voices and heads toward them – only to find a woman, dressed as a man, holding a thief at bay. Not only is she dressed as a man, she is wielding a sword and is armed to the teeth with knives. She asserts she is a thief-taker – which, of course, is ridiculous. Women aren’t thief-takers. Then – shock of all shocks – he discovers she is the escaped convict the Home Office has asked him to find. Uh-Oh! He apprehends her and takes her to the Armory. This woman is all of the things he despises – primarily, a criminal.
Veronica Chase’s life has changed dramatically in the last ten years and she’s escaped from the war-torn continent to London to try to make a life for herself. What she has certainly isn’t anything close to what she had, but it is the best she can do. She does her best to protect the innocents who live at the Court of Miracles with her. She even confessed to a crime she didn’t commit in order to help keep them safe. She managed to escape Newgate after six months imprisonment and she’ll never, ever go back there – even if it means working with the infuriating man who has just apprehended her.
We’ve already met and loved Merritt in previous books in the series and now we get an even better understanding of him and what drives him. Now, we meet Veronica Chase and you will absolutely LOVE her. She’s extremely talented, smart, wise, strong, and resilient – all without any of those TSTL moments we see in most of the female leads we read. I admired her pragmatism and tenacity as well as her fighting prowess and street-smarts. She was definitely as formidable as Merritt and they made a perfect match for each other
I highly recommend this entire series – and definitely this book. It is well-written, excellently plotted, and perfectly paced. Of course, having visits from the characters featured in the first two books was a bonus. I can hardly wait to see what happens next and how the group will finally put an end to Specter.
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: Regency London - 1816
Number of Pages: 384
OMGoodness! What an exciting, wild ride this was! With non-stop action, engrossing mystery, and fascinating characters you’ll find yourself totally unable to put this book down. Seriously, don’t start reading it in the evening if you need to get up the next morning! While this book can be read as a standalone, to get the full understanding and enjoyment of the overarching story of the series, you’ll want to read them all.
Rioting has become rampant in London and it is getting more and more violent. The Home Office and the men of the Armory are sure that Scepter is behind the riots just as they have been behind all of the plots in London over the last while. As they investigate more, they learn the ultimate goal of the Scepter organization – just not WHO is behind it. The goal is diabolical and if it is successful, it will be the end of everything England is and everything it stands for.
Merritt Rivers had a life-altering tragedy in his life five years ago and it has driven his every move since then. He immediately left London and bought himself a commission in the army where he spent the next several years fighting Napoleon. He used those years to hone his fighting skills and now that he has returned, he prowls the night looking for the man who changed his life. When he finds him …
Merritt is a gifted barrister, and now he has become a blasted baron thanks to Prinny. He is, essentially, two men – one who upholds the law and fights for justice during the day – and another who prowls the lowliest neighborhoods in London by night. He’s also a member of the Armory, a group of returned soldiers who are still fighting for England – just behind the scenes. On one of his nightly prowls, he hears raised voices and heads toward them – only to find a woman, dressed as a man, holding a thief at bay. Not only is she dressed as a man, she is wielding a sword and is armed to the teeth with knives. She asserts she is a thief-taker – which, of course, is ridiculous. Women aren’t thief-takers. Then – shock of all shocks – he discovers she is the escaped convict the Home Office has asked him to find. Uh-Oh! He apprehends her and takes her to the Armory. This woman is all of the things he despises – primarily, a criminal.
Veronica Chase’s life has changed dramatically in the last ten years and she’s escaped from the war-torn continent to London to try to make a life for herself. What she has certainly isn’t anything close to what she had, but it is the best she can do. She does her best to protect the innocents who live at the Court of Miracles with her. She even confessed to a crime she didn’t commit in order to help keep them safe. She managed to escape Newgate after six months imprisonment and she’ll never, ever go back there – even if it means working with the infuriating man who has just apprehended her.
We’ve already met and loved Merritt in previous books in the series and now we get an even better understanding of him and what drives him. Now, we meet Veronica Chase and you will absolutely LOVE her. She’s extremely talented, smart, wise, strong, and resilient – all without any of those TSTL moments we see in most of the female leads we read. I admired her pragmatism and tenacity as well as her fighting prowess and street-smarts. She was definitely as formidable as Merritt and they made a perfect match for each other
I highly recommend this entire series – and definitely this book. It is well-written, excellently plotted, and perfectly paced. Of course, having visits from the characters featured in the first two books was a bonus. I can hardly wait to see what happens next and how the group will finally put an end to Specter.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 9, 2021
Fierce!
Anna Harrington, became “ hooked [on Regency romance] and longed to create...independent and spirited heroines and dashing heroes.” (Goodreads) Well, she’s done just that with this fabulous episode in the “Lords of the Armory” series. In my mind Lord Merritt Rivers ex-soldier, and now a solicitor and Veronica Chase, (think Regency Marvel heroine type) thief hunter, protector of the innocent and daughter of Count.
A captivating couple of characters! Dynamic and fascinating. Their introduction is thunderous. Their continuing attraction and activities are fraught, dangerous and definitely steamy.
Merritt and his fellow Armory members chase for Scepter continues with happenings taking on new perspectives.
Not only does it seem that riots on the streets might be linked to and manipulated by Scepter, but there’s a strong indication that the poison leads right to the top powers in the land. As events come to a head, Merritt and Veronica have their hands full trying to stem a bloodbath on the streets of London, whilst simultaneously avoiding attempts to be captured by unknown minions.
Meanwhile Merritt keeps reliving the fact that he couldn’t keep his fiancé safe during a riot. This goads him to track down those who kill and maim for pleasure. It is this that keeps him roaming the streets seeking to bring justice and vengeance, always looking for the face of the monster who destroyed his love.
These two, with their deep secrets, just kept me enthralled!
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley
Anna Harrington, became “ hooked [on Regency romance] and longed to create...independent and spirited heroines and dashing heroes.” (Goodreads) Well, she’s done just that with this fabulous episode in the “Lords of the Armory” series. In my mind Lord Merritt Rivers ex-soldier, and now a solicitor and Veronica Chase, (think Regency Marvel heroine type) thief hunter, protector of the innocent and daughter of Count.
A captivating couple of characters! Dynamic and fascinating. Their introduction is thunderous. Their continuing attraction and activities are fraught, dangerous and definitely steamy.
Merritt and his fellow Armory members chase for Scepter continues with happenings taking on new perspectives.
Not only does it seem that riots on the streets might be linked to and manipulated by Scepter, but there’s a strong indication that the poison leads right to the top powers in the land. As events come to a head, Merritt and Veronica have their hands full trying to stem a bloodbath on the streets of London, whilst simultaneously avoiding attempts to be captured by unknown minions.
Meanwhile Merritt keeps reliving the fact that he couldn’t keep his fiancé safe during a riot. This goads him to track down those who kill and maim for pleasure. It is this that keeps him roaming the streets seeking to bring justice and vengeance, always looking for the face of the monster who destroyed his love.
These two, with their deep secrets, just kept me enthralled!
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley
May 2, 2021
Merritt Rivers wears many hats: solicitor, soldier, and newly minted Baron. He is helping the War Office investigate riots when he encounters a female thief-taker in the night. Veronica Chase has a hidden past, living in the shadows of London's underworld. She trades her skills for a pardon, teaming up with Merritt to find the dangerous leaders behind the city attacks.
This is the third book in the Lords of the Armory series. It is named for the training facility/social club that the first hero establishes for former military men. This book can mostly stand alone, but there is an overarching intrigue throughout the series. The individual pieces are resolved at the end of each book, but the larger investigation continues.
I really enjoyed this book! Merritt is still trying to recover from the trauma of losing his fiancée in a riot...it causes him to enlist, to train as a fighter, and to seek vengeance. Veronica is scrappy and loyal, desperately trying to make a home when she feels like she belongs nowhere. This book had many elements that kept me invested through the whole story: action, humor, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry between the main characters!
Tropes: Spy/Govt Work, Revenge, Class Difference
Eggplant Rating: 3
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AnExtraordinaryLord #NetGalley
This is the third book in the Lords of the Armory series. It is named for the training facility/social club that the first hero establishes for former military men. This book can mostly stand alone, but there is an overarching intrigue throughout the series. The individual pieces are resolved at the end of each book, but the larger investigation continues.
I really enjoyed this book! Merritt is still trying to recover from the trauma of losing his fiancée in a riot...it causes him to enlist, to train as a fighter, and to seek vengeance. Veronica is scrappy and loyal, desperately trying to make a home when she feels like she belongs nowhere. This book had many elements that kept me invested through the whole story: action, humor, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry between the main characters!
Tropes: Spy/Govt Work, Revenge, Class Difference
Eggplant Rating: 3
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AnExtraordinaryLord #NetGalley
May 23, 2021
Lord Merrit Rivers is a distinguished barrister by day and vigilante by night, prowling the streets of London to protect the innocent citizens. Veronica Chase is a woman with many secrets she is running from who is currently a thief taker by night, also trying to rid the streets of criminals. Veronica and Merrit meet one night completely by chance when Merrit realizes she is the criminal he's been looking for.
They work out a deal, if she helps him bring down the group of people responsible for the riots that are threatening all of London he will clear her name and give her freedom from the law. They fight a powerful attraction for each other while trying to stop the violence tearing their city apart while also trying to keep a few jaw dropping secrets from each other.
I really enjoyed this book, it had one of the most exciting and intriguing opening chapters that I've read in a historical in a long time. The sexual tension between Merrit and Veronica was scorching, and the vulnerabilities they allowed each other to see was deeply emotional.
I do think the plot overtook the romance a bit during the last 20% of the book but other than that this was nearly perfect.
Steamy, mysterious, swoony. A delightful historical romance!
They work out a deal, if she helps him bring down the group of people responsible for the riots that are threatening all of London he will clear her name and give her freedom from the law. They fight a powerful attraction for each other while trying to stop the violence tearing their city apart while also trying to keep a few jaw dropping secrets from each other.
I really enjoyed this book, it had one of the most exciting and intriguing opening chapters that I've read in a historical in a long time. The sexual tension between Merrit and Veronica was scorching, and the vulnerabilities they allowed each other to see was deeply emotional.
I do think the plot overtook the romance a bit during the last 20% of the book but other than that this was nearly perfect.
Steamy, mysterious, swoony. A delightful historical romance!
June 20, 2021
*Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for a review copy in exchange for an honest review."
This book had a fun premise and a great meet cute. The chemistry between the leads was very exciting and I wish it had been enough to keep me engaged in the story.
Merritt and Victoria are both trying to get to the bottom of some riots that are happening and causing havoc. There was a distinct vibe of Phoebus and Esmerelda from the two of them. There was a court of miracles and a man of the law who wants to do good in his own way and everything. It was very enjoyable up to a point.
For me the chemistry promised between these two characters didn't hold up all the way through and I felt like I was missing vital pieces to make their romance a success.
3.5/5 stars.
This book had a fun premise and a great meet cute. The chemistry between the leads was very exciting and I wish it had been enough to keep me engaged in the story.
Merritt and Victoria are both trying to get to the bottom of some riots that are happening and causing havoc. There was a distinct vibe of Phoebus and Esmerelda from the two of them. There was a court of miracles and a man of the law who wants to do good in his own way and everything. It was very enjoyable up to a point.
For me the chemistry promised between these two characters didn't hold up all the way through and I felt like I was missing vital pieces to make their romance a success.
3.5/5 stars.
July 6, 2021
Since the war against Napoleon has finally come to an end, Lord Merritt Rivers has returned to his life as a barrister dedicated to the law. A war hero made a baron for his service to the Prince Regent upon his return, Merritt spends his evenings roaming the streets trying to prevent crimes in real time. His vigilante efforts have earned him notice but he’s not the only one hunting criminals. One night’s hunt turns up a woman also seeking would-be thieves and Merritt is instantly attracted to her, until he realizes she’s the criminal he’s been trying to find. The woman is clever, beautiful, everything that draws Merritt in, but he knows she can’t be trusted.
Veronica Chase is the illegitimate daughter of a Portuguese nobleman, but that no longer matters since she and her adopted brother were forced to flee to England in the wake of Napoleon’s invasion. She’s spent time in Newgate, but not for her own crimes, rather she confessed to crimes she did not commit in order to ensure her brother remained free. Now Veronica is trapped between worlds, living in one of London’s poorest neighborhoods, but having nowhere she truly belongs.
When he promises to secure her pardon in exchange for her help, Veronica and Merritt work as tentative partners to keep innocents safe and learn who’s behind the violent riots wreaking havoc in London. They move between the dangerous rookeries and the glittering Carlton House, growing closer to each other as they draw closer to revealing the dangerous group behind the riots. The tentative trust between them is tested when each must confront the demons of their past and align their priorities for the future.
I really loved this one. The action and romance were so well placed, and I never felt like too much time was spent on either. The relationship between Veronica and Merritt developed quickly but very believably given how intense the situations they faced were. I really loved these two as a couple and I loved that it was Veronica who pursued Merritt and took risks for what she wanted, without compromising herself either. I loved that Merritt was on the alpha hero side while still having so much depth and layers to unpack in his character’s backstory. I thought it was so nice and refreshing to have a strong heroine who didn’t need the hero to survive but wasn’t a brat about her independence and never demurred about how much she wanted him. I think Merritt and Veronica brought out the best in each other and helped each other grow and overcome their pasts to begin again as a team. I also really loved the fact that both Merritt and Veronica were willing to take risks for each other and trust in each other's capabilities and competence. They each had painful pasts to work through, but were open and honest with each other and I am always a fan of that sort of communication. This book really sucked me into the story and is my favorite of the series thus far.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Veronica Chase is the illegitimate daughter of a Portuguese nobleman, but that no longer matters since she and her adopted brother were forced to flee to England in the wake of Napoleon’s invasion. She’s spent time in Newgate, but not for her own crimes, rather she confessed to crimes she did not commit in order to ensure her brother remained free. Now Veronica is trapped between worlds, living in one of London’s poorest neighborhoods, but having nowhere she truly belongs.
When he promises to secure her pardon in exchange for her help, Veronica and Merritt work as tentative partners to keep innocents safe and learn who’s behind the violent riots wreaking havoc in London. They move between the dangerous rookeries and the glittering Carlton House, growing closer to each other as they draw closer to revealing the dangerous group behind the riots. The tentative trust between them is tested when each must confront the demons of their past and align their priorities for the future.
I really loved this one. The action and romance were so well placed, and I never felt like too much time was spent on either. The relationship between Veronica and Merritt developed quickly but very believably given how intense the situations they faced were. I really loved these two as a couple and I loved that it was Veronica who pursued Merritt and took risks for what she wanted, without compromising herself either. I loved that Merritt was on the alpha hero side while still having so much depth and layers to unpack in his character’s backstory. I thought it was so nice and refreshing to have a strong heroine who didn’t need the hero to survive but wasn’t a brat about her independence and never demurred about how much she wanted him. I think Merritt and Veronica brought out the best in each other and helped each other grow and overcome their pasts to begin again as a team. I also really loved the fact that both Merritt and Veronica were willing to take risks for each other and trust in each other's capabilities and competence. They each had painful pasts to work through, but were open and honest with each other and I am always a fan of that sort of communication. This book really sucked me into the story and is my favorite of the series thus far.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 26, 2021
"Damn everything else but you and me"
This will go down as one of my favorite historical romances of 2021 & possibly one of my favorite HR ever. I cannot explain how much I loved and enjoyed this.
Veronica is one of my favorite heroines. I haven't read many HR where the heroine is a criminal. Veronica is a thief-taker and deeply interconnected to the criminal underworld. She is a character that lives in the gray area & I ate it up. She is fiercely loyal and incredibly intelligent. The first time we meet Veronica she is threatening a man with a sword! As we learn more about her story, we see that she is a survivor. I love how strong and soft she is at the same time. Her counterpart, Merrit is a barrister during the day but like batman at night. The first time they meet is hilarious and one of my favorite meet-cutes. Veronica and Merrit have the BEST witty banter. Their relationship felt very cat and mouse which was very sexy and intriguing. it sucked me right into the story. Merrit enlists the help of Veronica to find the mastermind behind a series of riots. They form a partnership despite their intense attraction to one another. It was everything that I wanted in a historical romance. It had the angst, the steam, and banter!!
Tropes included are:
- class difference
- spies
- secret identities (elements of it)
*Thank you Netgalley for the eARC of this book!
This will go down as one of my favorite historical romances of 2021 & possibly one of my favorite HR ever. I cannot explain how much I loved and enjoyed this.
Veronica is one of my favorite heroines. I haven't read many HR where the heroine is a criminal. Veronica is a thief-taker and deeply interconnected to the criminal underworld. She is a character that lives in the gray area & I ate it up. She is fiercely loyal and incredibly intelligent. The first time we meet Veronica she is threatening a man with a sword! As we learn more about her story, we see that she is a survivor. I love how strong and soft she is at the same time. Her counterpart, Merrit is a barrister during the day but like batman at night. The first time they meet is hilarious and one of my favorite meet-cutes. Veronica and Merrit have the BEST witty banter. Their relationship felt very cat and mouse which was very sexy and intriguing. it sucked me right into the story. Merrit enlists the help of Veronica to find the mastermind behind a series of riots. They form a partnership despite their intense attraction to one another. It was everything that I wanted in a historical romance. It had the angst, the steam, and banter!!
Tropes included are:
- class difference
- spies
- secret identities (elements of it)
*Thank you Netgalley for the eARC of this book!
June 21, 2021
I liked Merritt and Veronica and I really enjoyed reading their story. This is the third book in this fun series while I think you could enjoy this book quite easily on its own, personally, I recommend you read the full series and in order because there is an overarching story unfolding throughout. Action, excitement, intensity and intrigue give the storyline a sharp edge that dazzles as it captures and keeps your attention. On the romance side of things, I felt this couple worked very well together. I felt that their differences were offset nicely by the surprising similarities they shared and I found it easy to feel for them both. You can expect plenty of emotions, inner turmoil, humor, drama, heat and heart as this couple strives to work through their baggage, let go of their pasts and find the courage to open their hearts to love. I am electing to post a forthright review.
August 17, 2021
Themes, imagery, and content may be a trigger for some readers. Discussion death appear within the novel. Scenes depicting graphic violence/death also appear. they could be considered triggering to you, please take note.
An Extraordinary Lord, by Anna Harrington. This book was everything that I loved about reading and then some. I enjoyed the fast pace of the story. I like how the writer told the story with a lot of excitement, entertainment and action. These combined had me glued to the book.
I was anxious to see who was going to get theirs in the end. I found the plot very interesting and modern to historical romance writing. For me the book wasn’t boring or dull. Each chapter kept the storyline moving and getting better as the book progressed. The hot and spicy romance was a big bonus that plucks at the readers emotions for loving a good romantic book. The heroine, Veronica is kick butt awesome.
I love how her character is written. Her personality matched Witt with Merritt and won every time. Her skills with swords, knives and hand to hand combat were sweet. Then there’s the soft side to her that she lets only those that are close to her see. Her character is to go above and beyond to help others that need more help then she does.
And that is how Merritt finds himself in a dark alley, brandishing a sword. Merritt is very charming and somewhat of a rogue. Always working to master is sword skills and his lawyering skills, to be a better protector for those that are not able to protect themselves. The lust that he has for Veronica is like a burning flame to his loins that drives him over the edge as an aroused man. Thank you to the writer for writing Veronica’s age range older than twenty four.
This is a story that I was glad to read. Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
An Extraordinary Lord, by Anna Harrington. This book was everything that I loved about reading and then some. I enjoyed the fast pace of the story. I like how the writer told the story with a lot of excitement, entertainment and action. These combined had me glued to the book.
I was anxious to see who was going to get theirs in the end. I found the plot very interesting and modern to historical romance writing. For me the book wasn’t boring or dull. Each chapter kept the storyline moving and getting better as the book progressed. The hot and spicy romance was a big bonus that plucks at the readers emotions for loving a good romantic book. The heroine, Veronica is kick butt awesome.
I love how her character is written. Her personality matched Witt with Merritt and won every time. Her skills with swords, knives and hand to hand combat were sweet. Then there’s the soft side to her that she lets only those that are close to her see. Her character is to go above and beyond to help others that need more help then she does.
And that is how Merritt finds himself in a dark alley, brandishing a sword. Merritt is very charming and somewhat of a rogue. Always working to master is sword skills and his lawyering skills, to be a better protector for those that are not able to protect themselves. The lust that he has for Veronica is like a burning flame to his loins that drives him over the edge as an aroused man. Thank you to the writer for writing Veronica’s age range older than twenty four.
This is a story that I was glad to read. Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
March 14, 2025
This is only my 15th book by Anna Harrington. I read Dukes Are Forever (The Secret Life of Scoundrels book 1) way back in Oct, 2021 but never got more of her books after that one. Not sure why! I ended up getting her new release, The Duke and the Darkness (The Dukes of Darkness Book 1) in Aug, 2024 and really liked it a lot so I went back and read the rest of the Secret Life of Scoundrels series and then picked up Capturing the Carlisles series. Now I am reading this series. All the books in this series were a tad more than I like to pay for a book but it was Kindle Double Rewards day plus a few of the books in the series were on sale. :)
I am loving this series. I loved reading Merritt and Veronica’s story, especially Merritt. I love all the intrigue and suspense. I love that these powerful men don't care about the past of the women they love or care about what society thinks. I just love all these strong couples. Plus the sex is hot too :) Really good read.
I am loving this series. I loved reading Merritt and Veronica’s story, especially Merritt. I love all the intrigue and suspense. I love that these powerful men don't care about the past of the women they love or care about what society thinks. I just love all these strong couples. Plus the sex is hot too :) Really good read.
May 4, 2021
Settle in with some food and drink because you are not going to want to put this down until you're finished reading. Lord Merritt Rivers, a barrister and former soldier, patrols the streets to apprehend criminals. Veronica Chase is one of those criminals, but so much more. The relationship between these these two is amazing and especially the banter is incredible (even their friends notice). Fighting together to try and stop the riots is quite suspenseful and had me holding my breath at times. Part of a series but can be read as a standalone. Thoroughly enjoyable read!
February 11, 2023
Found myself a new must-read author!
July 14, 2021
4.5 Stars of Pure Anna Harrington!
So, I will freely admit that the first two books in this series didn't sit well because they simply struck me as not feeling...Anna Harrington-esque enough. I can't pinpoint wherein lies the magic of her books, whether it be her main characters, her story archs, or her style but I can say it is there and it is great. I always know when I read a book of hers and they always left me satisfied. For some indefinable reason I have not felt this way for the series so far. Here? Oh, I felt it.
The banter and camaraderie were there. We had an independent and well-defined heroine and hero. The steam and sexual tension were suitably illicit and fraught with emotion and desperation. I just kept hearing Harrington's voice in the writing again and again and kept thinking--YES! There she is! There is that something special I want from her books! Annnndddd.... I absolutely loved it.
Merritt and Veronica were this delicious team from the outset that got on and worked well but also genuinely liked each other from the get-go and were panting over each other too. Their being drawn to each other and never questioning it was great and Harrington conveyed it masterfully.
The mystery and investigating is a continuation of the series’ elusive antagonist(s): Scepter. As expected, we get nowhere closer to solving the Scepter question, but the present threat that Scepter presents during this story is, of course, resolved.
My one gripe about this, which hinders my awarding a full 5 stars, is that I felt that Merritt’s issues weren’t actually confronted throughout the story and felt a little rushed/tacked on at the end. I think it would have made Veronica’s being upset over when Merrit screws up. I really liked the dynamic, and the choice to have Veronica and Merrit struggle with this, but it felt like an afterthought when it could have been woven throughout. It probably would have landed a little better.
Otherwise? Yeah, this is a great read! It’s fun, it’s sexy, it’s interesting. Anna Harrington is an auto-buy for me, so I will be returning for the next book… Clayton’s maybe? If he falls in love with Madam Noir I will die with joy. I hope she gets a book with him, they shared some chemistry, and yeah. I’d be down to clown with them as a couple.
Highly recommend this book… this is where the series is stretching its legs!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I review this freely!
Ps. I liked this book so much I got the audiobook, as I love Justine Eyre's narration for Harrington's work. It was awesome and fun and Veronica's Portugese accent was actually pretty good!!!! So. There you go.
So, I will freely admit that the first two books in this series didn't sit well because they simply struck me as not feeling...Anna Harrington-esque enough. I can't pinpoint wherein lies the magic of her books, whether it be her main characters, her story archs, or her style but I can say it is there and it is great. I always know when I read a book of hers and they always left me satisfied. For some indefinable reason I have not felt this way for the series so far. Here? Oh, I felt it.
The banter and camaraderie were there. We had an independent and well-defined heroine and hero. The steam and sexual tension were suitably illicit and fraught with emotion and desperation. I just kept hearing Harrington's voice in the writing again and again and kept thinking--YES! There she is! There is that something special I want from her books! Annnndddd.... I absolutely loved it.
Merritt and Veronica were this delicious team from the outset that got on and worked well but also genuinely liked each other from the get-go and were panting over each other too. Their being drawn to each other and never questioning it was great and Harrington conveyed it masterfully.
The mystery and investigating is a continuation of the series’ elusive antagonist(s): Scepter. As expected, we get nowhere closer to solving the Scepter question, but the present threat that Scepter presents during this story is, of course, resolved.
My one gripe about this, which hinders my awarding a full 5 stars, is that I felt that Merritt’s issues weren’t actually confronted throughout the story and felt a little rushed/tacked on at the end. I think it would have made Veronica’s being upset over when Merrit screws up. I really liked the dynamic, and the choice to have Veronica and Merrit struggle with this, but it felt like an afterthought when it could have been woven throughout. It probably would have landed a little better.
Otherwise? Yeah, this is a great read! It’s fun, it’s sexy, it’s interesting. Anna Harrington is an auto-buy for me, so I will be returning for the next book… Clayton’s maybe? If he falls in love with Madam Noir I will die with joy. I hope she gets a book with him, they shared some chemistry, and yeah. I’d be down to clown with them as a couple.
Highly recommend this book… this is where the series is stretching its legs!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I review this freely!
Ps. I liked this book so much I got the audiobook, as I love Justine Eyre's narration for Harrington's work. It was awesome and fun and Veronica's Portugese accent was actually pretty good!!!! So. There you go.
July 7, 2021
An Extraordinary Lord is the third book in Anna Harrington's exciting and oh-so-romantic Lords of the Armory series. I swear with every new book in the series I declare that the latest one is my favorite. I guess I love them all equally. Sometimes a series loses steam by the third book; I am thrilled to find this one is still as strong as ever. If you love Regency Romance - and military men - you do NOT want to miss any of this series. Though I recommend reading from the beginning (you won't want to miss anything!), each individual book stands alone perfectly well. Yes, I am gushing...but I really love this author's work.
Lord Merritt Rivers was formerly a solider but now is a successful solicitor who works with his father. Haunted by a past incident in which he could not save someone he loved, Merritt stalks the night in an effort to stop crimes in their tracks. While searching for an escaped convict, he runs into a female thief taker; Merritt is smitten with this smart, sassy and challenging woman...until he discovers SHE is the convict he is searching for! Veronica Chase confessed to a crime she didn't commit in order to protect her adopted brother, so she hides her past as a nobleman's daughter and lives between two worlds. When she's caught she's offered a bargain: if she helps the Lords of the Armory protect London's citizens from riots that have broken out over the city, she will receive a pardon. Things become incredibly dangerous as they begin to discover the the leaders of the mob. Will they both survive and be able to overcome their pasts to build a new life together?
I just loved this book; not only did we have steamy romance, but there was lots of fighting, blending together for an exciting story. Merritt was a hero type I particularly love - the tortured hero. He has spent years trying to absolve himself of being unable to save a loved one, plus he's been searching for that killer while trying to protect the citizens of London. Veronica was certainly the perfect woman for him, challenging him mentally and physically, while also trying to overcome her own past. Veronica was the equal of any man in a sword or knife fight. You go, girl! I adored they often came to the same conclusions on matters and finished each other's thoughts. In a story full of past agonies, it was refreshing to have the humor between the two. And the intimate moments were incredibly swoon-worthy. As with the other books, though the romance between the leads was utterly compelling, steamy and loving, it was the relationship between the Lords of the Armory that tugged at my heartstrings the most. They were not only the best of friends, but brothers-in-arms whose relationship was forged in the fires of battle. I was stoked to see on Goodreads that there would be at least one other book in the series. Squeeeeeeeee! Call me greedy, but I'd like to see many more!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
(Actually 300 reviews!)
Lord Merritt Rivers was formerly a solider but now is a successful solicitor who works with his father. Haunted by a past incident in which he could not save someone he loved, Merritt stalks the night in an effort to stop crimes in their tracks. While searching for an escaped convict, he runs into a female thief taker; Merritt is smitten with this smart, sassy and challenging woman...until he discovers SHE is the convict he is searching for! Veronica Chase confessed to a crime she didn't commit in order to protect her adopted brother, so she hides her past as a nobleman's daughter and lives between two worlds. When she's caught she's offered a bargain: if she helps the Lords of the Armory protect London's citizens from riots that have broken out over the city, she will receive a pardon. Things become incredibly dangerous as they begin to discover the the leaders of the mob. Will they both survive and be able to overcome their pasts to build a new life together?
I just loved this book; not only did we have steamy romance, but there was lots of fighting, blending together for an exciting story. Merritt was a hero type I particularly love - the tortured hero. He has spent years trying to absolve himself of being unable to save a loved one, plus he's been searching for that killer while trying to protect the citizens of London. Veronica was certainly the perfect woman for him, challenging him mentally and physically, while also trying to overcome her own past. Veronica was the equal of any man in a sword or knife fight. You go, girl! I adored they often came to the same conclusions on matters and finished each other's thoughts. In a story full of past agonies, it was refreshing to have the humor between the two. And the intimate moments were incredibly swoon-worthy. As with the other books, though the romance between the leads was utterly compelling, steamy and loving, it was the relationship between the Lords of the Armory that tugged at my heartstrings the most. They were not only the best of friends, but brothers-in-arms whose relationship was forged in the fires of battle. I was stoked to see on Goodreads that there would be at least one other book in the series. Squeeeeeeeee! Call me greedy, but I'd like to see many more!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
(Actually 300 reviews!)
June 24, 2021
The third book in the Lords of the Armory series, An Extraordinary Lord follows Veronica and Merritt, a pair from very different worlds who work together to stop the violence in their city and the threats to the monarchy. Merritt, an ex-soldier and current solicitor, is one of the Lords of the Armory, and Veronica is a convicted criminal, though she is innocent of the crime for which she served time. With the promise of a pardon, Veronica begrudgingly helps Merritt figure out who is inciting violence and riots on the streets.
This is such a good story, and I love Merritt and Veronica. Their story is intense, action-packed, and riddled with sexual tension. Though they are seemingly different, they are similar in many ways. They both seem trapped between two different worlds, and they are both compelled to help others. I love that Merritt and Veronica are equally skilled in defending themselves and others. They make a good team, and they both work in different ways to rid the streets of criminal activity. They are both strong and capable characters with secrets, and they are also both slow to trust.
Veronica has had a hard life, and she’s wise for her years. There’s so much more to her than meets the eye, and Merritt quickly sees through her tough exterior. However, he can’t reconcile the skilled criminal with the intelligent, cultured woman he sees glimpses of. She is a puzzle, and he wants to solve it.
Life and loss have changed Merritt. His priorities have changed, and he sees his life going in a different direction than he initially planned. It’s interesting to learn more about what happened to his character and what fuels his decisions. The same is true for Veronica. I love how their pasts are slowly revealed as the story progresses, and how they help each other heal. I also love their amazing chemistry!
While fighting, working together and flirting, Veronica and Merritt have a fantastic connection. Their banter is charming and filled with innuendo, and they play off each other well. Of course, they resist their shared connection and pull back when things become too serious, as both are afraid of the depth of their feelings. This makes for some great angst and tension, as well as some swoon-worthy scenes. Their romance is steamy and fun and exciting, and their story is wonderful!
This is a great addition to the Lords of the Armory series and is filled with suspense, intrigue, and an epic romance. Though it’s the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. However, all of the books are fantastic, and I totally recommend the entire series. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Anna Harrington, and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
This is such a good story, and I love Merritt and Veronica. Their story is intense, action-packed, and riddled with sexual tension. Though they are seemingly different, they are similar in many ways. They both seem trapped between two different worlds, and they are both compelled to help others. I love that Merritt and Veronica are equally skilled in defending themselves and others. They make a good team, and they both work in different ways to rid the streets of criminal activity. They are both strong and capable characters with secrets, and they are also both slow to trust.
Veronica has had a hard life, and she’s wise for her years. There’s so much more to her than meets the eye, and Merritt quickly sees through her tough exterior. However, he can’t reconcile the skilled criminal with the intelligent, cultured woman he sees glimpses of. She is a puzzle, and he wants to solve it.
Life and loss have changed Merritt. His priorities have changed, and he sees his life going in a different direction than he initially planned. It’s interesting to learn more about what happened to his character and what fuels his decisions. The same is true for Veronica. I love how their pasts are slowly revealed as the story progresses, and how they help each other heal. I also love their amazing chemistry!
While fighting, working together and flirting, Veronica and Merritt have a fantastic connection. Their banter is charming and filled with innuendo, and they play off each other well. Of course, they resist their shared connection and pull back when things become too serious, as both are afraid of the depth of their feelings. This makes for some great angst and tension, as well as some swoon-worthy scenes. Their romance is steamy and fun and exciting, and their story is wonderful!
This is a great addition to the Lords of the Armory series and is filled with suspense, intrigue, and an epic romance. Though it’s the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. However, all of the books are fantastic, and I totally recommend the entire series. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Anna Harrington, and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
June 29, 2021
After his service in the army, Merritt was made a baron by the prince regent. He spends his days as a barrister and his nights hunting criminals on the streets of London. He’s also been tasked by the Home Office to find out who is organizing the riots in the city. On his hunt for an escaped convict, Merritt runs into a female thief-taker. Sparks fly. They are equally matched in sword play. He is immediately attracted to her. But when he asks her name, he finds out she is the criminal he’s hunting.
Veronica lives on the streets after moving to London from Portugal. She is innocent of wrongdoing, but confessed to the crime of another to protect her foster brother Filipe, who guards their community of poor. After being caught by Merritt, she agrees to help the Home Office discover who is behind the riots in exchange for a full pardon.
An Extraordinary Lord is the third title in Ms. Harrington’s delightful Lords of the Armory series. I’m enjoying the overarching storyline following the mysterious and devious group, Scepter. I enjoy its darker aspect and how it gives mystery to the stories, and especially how it connects each book. Merritt and his brothers at the Armory are determined to discover Scepter’s connection to the unusual riots. However, Merritt has a personal stake in the his search for answers: his fiancée was brutally killed in a mob riot five years ago. He is determined to have his revenge, and this drive takes his heart to a dark place. His motives, while justified, are a bit one-dimensional and honestly, I wish he’d been able to get past Joanna’s death sooner than he did.
Veronica is a wonderful, modern heroine. The daughter of a Portuguese Count, she lost everything when invaders killed her father. She’s surviving in London, but being with Merritt, she recognizes that she doesn’t fit into her current life, but she can’t upgrade into society either. Veronica is a three-dimensional character, full of life and experiencing so many emotions. She gives herself to Merritt, knowing he will never fully accept her, a criminal, and knowing he is still haunted by his deceased fiancée. In fact, Merritt’s conflict over the fact that she’s a criminal becomes repetitive as he constantly must remind himself in order to counter his attraction to Veronica.
An Extraordinary Lord is another engrossing adventure with ties to Scepter. The Lords of the Armory still don’t know who is the ultimate mastermind, but they do know Scepter’s end game. I liked the match of Veronica and Merritt - both unique individuals and hardened fighters. They work together well, a team, once he gets over his need to protect her and his haunted memories of Joanna.
My Rating: B
Review copy provided by Netgalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Veronica lives on the streets after moving to London from Portugal. She is innocent of wrongdoing, but confessed to the crime of another to protect her foster brother Filipe, who guards their community of poor. After being caught by Merritt, she agrees to help the Home Office discover who is behind the riots in exchange for a full pardon.
An Extraordinary Lord is the third title in Ms. Harrington’s delightful Lords of the Armory series. I’m enjoying the overarching storyline following the mysterious and devious group, Scepter. I enjoy its darker aspect and how it gives mystery to the stories, and especially how it connects each book. Merritt and his brothers at the Armory are determined to discover Scepter’s connection to the unusual riots. However, Merritt has a personal stake in the his search for answers: his fiancée was brutally killed in a mob riot five years ago. He is determined to have his revenge, and this drive takes his heart to a dark place. His motives, while justified, are a bit one-dimensional and honestly, I wish he’d been able to get past Joanna’s death sooner than he did.
Veronica is a wonderful, modern heroine. The daughter of a Portuguese Count, she lost everything when invaders killed her father. She’s surviving in London, but being with Merritt, she recognizes that she doesn’t fit into her current life, but she can’t upgrade into society either. Veronica is a three-dimensional character, full of life and experiencing so many emotions. She gives herself to Merritt, knowing he will never fully accept her, a criminal, and knowing he is still haunted by his deceased fiancée. In fact, Merritt’s conflict over the fact that she’s a criminal becomes repetitive as he constantly must remind himself in order to counter his attraction to Veronica.
An Extraordinary Lord is another engrossing adventure with ties to Scepter. The Lords of the Armory still don’t know who is the ultimate mastermind, but they do know Scepter’s end game. I liked the match of Veronica and Merritt - both unique individuals and hardened fighters. They work together well, a team, once he gets over his need to protect her and his haunted memories of Joanna.
My Rating: B
Review copy provided by Netgalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
June 28, 2021
Soldier turned solicitor & recently received a life peerage, Lord Merritt Rivers has dedicated his life to upholding the law. He patrols the streets faithfully, hoping to stop crimes before they can happen. While hunting an escaped convict, he encounters a woman also hunting thieves. She's a delicious distraction, until he discovers that she is the criminal he's after. She's smart, challenging, and everything he finds attractive, but he cannot trust her. Veronica Chase has hidden her past as a nobleman's daughter. She confesses to a crime to keep her adopted brother Filipe out of prison. She now lives in London's underworld, trapped between worlds, belonging nowhere. Forming an uneasy alliance, Veronica and Merritt work together to protect innocent Londoners during the city's riots. Moving between her world and his, they grow closer to each other and to the mob's dangerous leaders.
The third book in this page turning series, it’s easily read on its own. I’ve liked Merritt in the earlier books & quickly grew to love him in this book, he’s a man of many parts, barrister, night time vigilante & member of the Armoury, he's also still carrying the guilt of not saving his fiancée from an attack. Veronica is strong, feisty, intelligent & has secrets. I loved how their relationship developed & the formidable team they made. The pace is fast & I found the pages flew by. A very well written engrossing read & now eagerly await the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in this page turning series, it’s easily read on its own. I’ve liked Merritt in the earlier books & quickly grew to love him in this book, he’s a man of many parts, barrister, night time vigilante & member of the Armoury, he's also still carrying the guilt of not saving his fiancée from an attack. Veronica is strong, feisty, intelligent & has secrets. I loved how their relationship developed & the formidable team they made. The pace is fast & I found the pages flew by. A very well written engrossing read & now eagerly await the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 21, 2021
This is the third book in the series about the Armory, set up by a group of friends and returning veteran officers to aid their men in returning to life in London. It is a sanctuary for the men who the government has abandoned. They also have the mission to find and destroy Scepter, a criminal organization, whose goal is to take over the government.
This book focuses on Merritt Rivers, barrister and Baron by day and a city guardian at night. His fiancée had been murdered by a rioter, shortly before their wedding. That is what then drove him to the Army and now keeps him on the streets at night, to protect the innocent but also to look for her murderer. It is on one of these nights that he comes upon Veronica Chase, falsely accused and sentenced to prison, from which she escaped. She is a thief taker and skilled with sword, knives and recon among others, skilled honed in her native Portugal, before she became a refugee. Merritt blackmails her into helping him find the people behind the resent riots, but working together their feelings for each other grow, because this is a romance story after all.
This book as the previous ones has vivid descriptions, intriguing characters and wonderful historic background exploring the social issues of the day, how the poor and especially women fared in society and the corruption of the government (which seems to be timeless). I read an ARC provided by NetGally.com. this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
This book focuses on Merritt Rivers, barrister and Baron by day and a city guardian at night. His fiancée had been murdered by a rioter, shortly before their wedding. That is what then drove him to the Army and now keeps him on the streets at night, to protect the innocent but also to look for her murderer. It is on one of these nights that he comes upon Veronica Chase, falsely accused and sentenced to prison, from which she escaped. She is a thief taker and skilled with sword, knives and recon among others, skilled honed in her native Portugal, before she became a refugee. Merritt blackmails her into helping him find the people behind the resent riots, but working together their feelings for each other grow, because this is a romance story after all.
This book as the previous ones has vivid descriptions, intriguing characters and wonderful historic background exploring the social issues of the day, how the poor and especially women fared in society and the corruption of the government (which seems to be timeless). I read an ARC provided by NetGally.com. this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
July 15, 2021
Another knock out read from Harrington. This time we leave society a bit more and explore the the poorest parts of London, where criminals and crime run supreme. It is here that Merritt meets Veronica, on his nightly stalks of London. Veronica is like no woman he has ever met, she can wield a sword as well as he can, he is hooked from the first fight. They soon strike a bargain to end the riots and we soon find ourselves out of the slums and into Carlton House with society, the ton, and the prince.
Merritt is such a tortured soul who has faced loss and devastation at the hands of Sceptor and the war, he is determined to make London safer but he also bent on revenge. Veronica has also faced loss but she is also trying to find a home and a place she belongs. As these two battle the evil of Sceptor but also each other sparks fly, passion ignites, and danger lurks. Just do yourself a favor and read this! :)
Merritt is such a tortured soul who has faced loss and devastation at the hands of Sceptor and the war, he is determined to make London safer but he also bent on revenge. Veronica has also faced loss but she is also trying to find a home and a place she belongs. As these two battle the evil of Sceptor but also each other sparks fly, passion ignites, and danger lurks. Just do yourself a favor and read this! :)
July 1, 2022
The deeper I get in this series, the more I love it! These men have such a great bond. I loved that they worry about each other. And honestly, Merritt needed to be worried about. His actions seeking revenge were understandable but they broke my heart with how they made Veronica feel. I wanted to smack him.
I love the women in this series. Veronica was another great example of a strong woman who knew her own mind. But I think the woman who steals the scenes is Madame Noir. I really like her! Is it too much to hope she gets a book? Maybe with Clayton?
All in all a very enjoyable read. It was made even better by listening to it. Justine Eyre is one of my favs.
I love the women in this series. Veronica was another great example of a strong woman who knew her own mind. But I think the woman who steals the scenes is Madame Noir. I really like her! Is it too much to hope she gets a book? Maybe with Clayton?
All in all a very enjoyable read. It was made even better by listening to it. Justine Eyre is one of my favs.
June 13, 2021
Merritt is a solider turned solicitor who does anything to uphold the law.
Veronica is a bastard daughter of a nobleman convicted of a crime she never committed.
Together they form an uneasy alliance working together to protect Londoners during the riots.
This is a poignant story which makes you want to laugh and cry.
Anna Harrington writes a sumptuous romance book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Veronica is a bastard daughter of a nobleman convicted of a crime she never committed.
Together they form an uneasy alliance working together to protect Londoners during the riots.
This is a poignant story which makes you want to laugh and cry.
Anna Harrington writes a sumptuous romance book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
May 6, 2022
There was so much I loved about this romance: the meet-cute between the hero and heroine that involved a sword fight, working together to stop innocent people from getting hurt, the character development of the two MCs, particularly of Veronica and her desire for a better life and knowing she wants to be with the hero early on, the appearance of previous characters, and the action! This was a fun, well-paced romance, and I love these two characters!
September 9, 2021
Too much violence and nonsense going on in the book.
February 14, 2022
Didn't really feel any kind of connection to the characters🤷
December 19, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this series. The second was good as well. This just no . So many icks
May 19, 2021
4.25 stars
An Extraordinary Lord is the third installment in Anna Harrington's Lords of the Armory, a series about ex-soldiers who join forces to stop a secret organization's plan to overthrown the monarchy.
This book features Lord Merrit Rivers, barrister by day, city watchman at night. He prowls the street, stops criminals from doing trouble. In one of the nights he stalk the street, Merritt meets a mysterious female thief taker, who matches his talent with swords and knives. Miss Veronica Chase. After finding out that Veronica is also an ex-prisoner at Newgate, Merritt reluctantly makes a deal that Veronica will be given pardon as long as she helps Merritt to look for the masterminds behind current riots that threat London.
This is definitely my favorite book of the series so far. It is all due to the SIZZLING chemistry between Merritt and Veronica. OH. MY. GOD. Veronica is no wallflower. She lives in the street, with the poor and the criminals. She has to use her talent with weapons and her wits to survive. She is a potent combination who is perfect partner for Merritt. No matter how Merritt tries to resist - him being a peer of His Majesty's realm, her being a criminal, him still having memory of dead fiancée - he is taken with Veronica.
I'm in love with their banters and their sexual atractions towards one another. Veronica's quick way to flirt back, to outmatch Merritt, results in delightful scenes that make laugh in glee. I just LOVE them together. I think Veronica is currently my favorite woman of the series too!
Merritt is a fine hero -- but he also suffers from that dead lover trope. You know, trying to revenge her death, hiding his pain, endangering himself and not telling his friends about it. Luckily, Merritt's friends are ex-soldiers and a general. They don't easily steps back when he pushes hard.
There is no BIG development regarding the secret organization, Scepter, though. Yes, these soldiers manage to stop the riots. But there are no more clues about who are the important people behind Scepter. It's starting to annoy me because it's book #3 already. Is Miss Harrington keeping ALL of the answers for book #4? Because if that's the case, I'm worried if the romance will be overshadowed by the mystery by then.
Hopefully not. Until then, I'll be awaiting for news about the next book -- which I'm sure will be about Clayton.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
An Extraordinary Lord is the third installment in Anna Harrington's Lords of the Armory, a series about ex-soldiers who join forces to stop a secret organization's plan to overthrown the monarchy.
This book features Lord Merrit Rivers, barrister by day, city watchman at night. He prowls the street, stops criminals from doing trouble. In one of the nights he stalk the street, Merritt meets a mysterious female thief taker, who matches his talent with swords and knives. Miss Veronica Chase. After finding out that Veronica is also an ex-prisoner at Newgate, Merritt reluctantly makes a deal that Veronica will be given pardon as long as she helps Merritt to look for the masterminds behind current riots that threat London.
This is definitely my favorite book of the series so far. It is all due to the SIZZLING chemistry between Merritt and Veronica. OH. MY. GOD. Veronica is no wallflower. She lives in the street, with the poor and the criminals. She has to use her talent with weapons and her wits to survive. She is a potent combination who is perfect partner for Merritt. No matter how Merritt tries to resist - him being a peer of His Majesty's realm, her being a criminal, him still having memory of dead fiancée - he is taken with Veronica.
I'm in love with their banters and their sexual atractions towards one another. Veronica's quick way to flirt back, to outmatch Merritt, results in delightful scenes that make laugh in glee. I just LOVE them together. I think Veronica is currently my favorite woman of the series too!
Merritt is a fine hero -- but he also suffers from that dead lover trope. You know, trying to revenge her death, hiding his pain, endangering himself and not telling his friends about it. Luckily, Merritt's friends are ex-soldiers and a general. They don't easily steps back when he pushes hard.
There is no BIG development regarding the secret organization, Scepter, though. Yes, these soldiers manage to stop the riots. But there are no more clues about who are the important people behind Scepter. It's starting to annoy me because it's book #3 already. Is Miss Harrington keeping ALL of the answers for book #4? Because if that's the case, I'm worried if the romance will be overshadowed by the mystery by then.
Hopefully not. Until then, I'll be awaiting for news about the next book -- which I'm sure will be about Clayton.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
April 24, 2025
⫷ The ARC copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange of an honest review ⫸
My Rating - ★★★½
Merritt + Veronica
✔ Historical Romance
✔ Hate to Love
✔ Secret Identity
✔ Barrister/ Thief-taker
✔ Dead Fiancée
✔ Push/ Pull
✔ Insta-lust
✔ Both Experienced I think
✔ Dual POV [Third Person]
✔ HEA
Feelings :
- The chemistry between Merritt and Veronica was hot. The way they met and flirted with each other was something I totally enjoyed. Their passion for each other was sensual even I could feel it while I was reading.
- I liked Clayton, Merritt's bestfriend and Madame Noir, the brothel owner. They're fun and nice people. And Ivy was so cute.
-In second book of this series An Unexpected Earl I read about Scepter but the author didn't explain much about it but in this book, I got a better understanding about it.
- I don't like the dead fiancée or ex trope. Because Merritt was hung up on his fiancée throughout the whole book. He only let go when Veronica was hurt and confessed her feelings. And it happened on the last chapter. Ugh! It was a deal breaker for me. I would've given this book a five star if it wasn't for this fact.
- I was crying my hearts out when Filipe was bidding his goodbyes to Veronica for good. I know it wasn't that emotional but I did hear a bad news before reading this book. So I guess it finally triggered my emotions. Sigh!
- I would've liked some interaction between Merritt's father and Veronica. Also, I really wanted to know why Merritt worshipped him and what he went through.
- Merritt was such a hypocrite though. Because he detested Veronica thinking she was a criminal. But then he kept hunting down the man who killed his fiancée to kill that person himself. Was that not criminally? To give justice when it's not his place to do so? She was a criminal if she did it but for him, it was okay? Ugh!
Anyway, this third installment was way better than the second one. I liked how strong Veronica was physically and emotionally. I did wish she let Merritt groveled a bit. Another thing bothered me Merritt clinging onto his dead fiancée even though he said he wanted Veronica more than he even wanted that fiancée of his. I would've been okay if the topic screeched up to 50% of the book. What I was not okay with was it dragged out till the end. So yeah, I was annoyed and disappointed. Aside from that, the writing was pretty good. I really enjoyed reading it.
Trigger Warning : Violence.
"It must be so easy in your world," she mused somberly, "where everything is black and white, guilty or innocent, with no blurring of the ground in between. But believe me that the world is filled with shades of gray." She looked away. "Whether we like it or not."
My Rating - ★★★½
Merritt + Veronica
✔ Historical Romance
✔ Hate to Love
✔ Secret Identity
✔ Barrister/ Thief-taker
✔ Dead Fiancée
✔ Push/ Pull
✔ Insta-lust
✔ Both Experienced I think
✔ Dual POV [Third Person]
✔ HEA
Feelings :
- The chemistry between Merritt and Veronica was hot. The way they met and flirted with each other was something I totally enjoyed. Their passion for each other was sensual even I could feel it while I was reading.
- I liked Clayton, Merritt's bestfriend and Madame Noir, the brothel owner. They're fun and nice people. And Ivy was so cute.
-In second book of this series An Unexpected Earl I read about Scepter but the author didn't explain much about it but in this book, I got a better understanding about it.
- I don't like the dead fiancée or ex trope. Because Merritt was hung up on his fiancée throughout the whole book. He only let go when Veronica was hurt and confessed her feelings. And it happened on the last chapter. Ugh! It was a deal breaker for me. I would've given this book a five star if it wasn't for this fact.
- I was crying my hearts out when Filipe was bidding his goodbyes to Veronica for good. I know it wasn't that emotional but I did hear a bad news before reading this book. So I guess it finally triggered my emotions. Sigh!
- I would've liked some interaction between Merritt's father and Veronica. Also, I really wanted to know why Merritt worshipped him and what he went through.
- Merritt was such a hypocrite though. Because he detested Veronica thinking she was a criminal. But then he kept hunting down the man who killed his fiancée to kill that person himself. Was that not criminally? To give justice when it's not his place to do so? She was a criminal if she did it but for him, it was okay? Ugh!
Anyway, this third installment was way better than the second one. I liked how strong Veronica was physically and emotionally. I did wish she let Merritt groveled a bit. Another thing bothered me Merritt clinging onto his dead fiancée even though he said he wanted Veronica more than he even wanted that fiancée of his. I would've been okay if the topic screeched up to 50% of the book. What I was not okay with was it dragged out till the end. So yeah, I was annoyed and disappointed. Aside from that, the writing was pretty good. I really enjoyed reading it.
Trigger Warning : Violence.
"It must be so easy in your world," she mused somberly, "where everything is black and white, guilty or innocent, with no blurring of the ground in between. But believe me that the world is filled with shades of gray." She looked away. "Whether we like it or not."
July 6, 2021
An Extraordinary Lord is book three of the Lords of the Armory series by Anna Harrington and if you haven't started this series, you definitely should. I recommend starting with book one before diving in because there is a storyline that is threaded throughout all of these books and if you pick this one up first, you are going to miss some critical points of the story. With that said, each book focuses on different characters and this one is focused on Lord Merritt Rivers and Veronica Chase who happen to be on different sides of the law.
Veronica is an interesting character. She confessed to a crime to keep her adopted brother out of prison but Merritt doesn't 100% believe she is innocent (at first) and she isn't about to go out of her way to prove herself to him. As they build an alliance to protect the people of London from the rioters, they realize how attracted they are to each other despite their supposed differences.
Definitely consider picking this series up. I look forward to the next book in the series to see what comes next for these Lords and their Ladies.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Veronica is an interesting character. She confessed to a crime to keep her adopted brother out of prison but Merritt doesn't 100% believe she is innocent (at first) and she isn't about to go out of her way to prove herself to him. As they build an alliance to protect the people of London from the rioters, they realize how attracted they are to each other despite their supposed differences.
Definitely consider picking this series up. I look forward to the next book in the series to see what comes next for these Lords and their Ladies.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2021
Merritt stumble upon Veronica in the middle of thief-taking and they are instantly attracted to and intrigued by each other. Veronica not only matched Merritt in wit but with a sword. However, they can never be together as she is a convicted criminal, he is a barrister, and both also have darkness in their pasts that are keeping them apart. However, they are forced to work together to figure out why a series of destructive and dangerous riots have been popping up around London. Forced together, their attraction for each other is obvious but the closer they get, the more they fight their feelings.
Firstly, I really loved the premise of this book. We very much have this fight of the wills between what is good and what is bad and the if there is a grey space. Merritt is very much of the opinion that it is black and white but as he gets to know Veronica, his misconceptions are slowly torn down. Veronica was a great character. Super sarcastic, strong and independent. She also had an interesting back story and I wish we got to see more of the Court of Miracles.
However, I felt that Merritt fought against his past too long for my liking (up to the very end) so it was hard for me to believe they loved each other when he was still hurting over another woman. The plot in general overtook the romance and relationship too much for me. I believed they wanted each other sexually but not that they loved each other. They fought their attraction to each other - Merritt more so than Veronica - for so long that I didnt feel like he really allowed himself to know her enough to love her by then end.
This book will great for readers who like a lot of action and intrigue in their romances and I really enjoyed it overall. Not a new favorite but fun while I was reading it.
* I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *
Firstly, I really loved the premise of this book. We very much have this fight of the wills between what is good and what is bad and the if there is a grey space. Merritt is very much of the opinion that it is black and white but as he gets to know Veronica, his misconceptions are slowly torn down. Veronica was a great character. Super sarcastic, strong and independent. She also had an interesting back story and I wish we got to see more of the Court of Miracles.
However, I felt that Merritt fought against his past too long for my liking (up to the very end) so it was hard for me to believe they loved each other when he was still hurting over another woman. The plot in general overtook the romance and relationship too much for me. I believed they wanted each other sexually but not that they loved each other. They fought their attraction to each other - Merritt more so than Veronica - for so long that I didnt feel like he really allowed himself to know her enough to love her by then end.
This book will great for readers who like a lot of action and intrigue in their romances and I really enjoyed it overall. Not a new favorite but fun while I was reading it.
* I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *
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