Untitled: Crimes Against the Crown

by Wendy Bayne

2021 WINNER of the Independent Press Award in Historical Fiction

Untitled: Crimes Against the Crown follows Clarissa Turner’s exploits, a young woman born into a family of privilege and embroiled in a world full of intrigue and suspense in the decades following the Napoleonic Wars.
As Clarissa comes of age, she meets Miles Johnson, a bitter but handsome man searching for his identity as the wrongfully
Untitled son of Lord Shellard.
Under the direction of Britain’s master of spies, they strive to bring down a consortium of smugglers, taking them from London to Paris and back as they seek to protect the nation.

Unbridled Spirit, Untold Family Secrets, Unlike Spy, Love Undeterred by Fate. Unsettled Scores and Unknown dangers.
Murder, Mayhem, intrigue and Romance. Follow their adventures in the Crimes Against the Crown Series.

Warning: Graphic violence and rape is alluded to but not described.

Genres: Historical

Paperback

First published May 4, 2020

About the author

Wendy Bayne weaves themes reflecting her interests and passions in history and social justice throughout her debut novel Untitled: Crimes Against the Crown. Set in 1827 England a young girl coming of age finds herself embroiled in the world of espionage to find not only love but that family secrets are sometimes dark and terrible as she is recruited by England's master of spies as an Agent of the Crown.

Books have been a large part of Wendy's life and she enjoys multiple genres. She is also an avid fan of Toronto Maple Leafs Hockey and Blue Jays Baseball.

You can find Wendy here on Goodreads and on twitter @bayne_wendy

Reviews

[P.L. Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely diversion in my fantasy-heavy reading list took me to a historical fiction-romance-thriller: an excellent novel by author Wendy Bayne which is the first untitled installment in the "Crimes Against the Crown" series.

The novel takes place in the post-Napoleonic War / Victorian England of the 19th century. The teenaged protagonist, Clarissa (Lissa for short) Turner is being raised in a somewhat sheltered environment on her family’s estate as a privileged young aristocrat.

Lissa is headstrong, but clever and resourceful. Her nominal father, “The General”, is cold and callous towards Lissa, however Lissa is surrounded by other loving relatives including siblings and her aunt.

Lissa’s sister Irene suddenly announces changes that will cause Lissa’s life significant upheaval. Irene plans to marry the love of her life, a gentlemen named Colin, and intends to take Lissa with her to start a new life in London. Lissa, while not close to The General, is still reticent to leave behind the only surroundings she has ever known.

It is soon shockingly revealed that Irene and Colin’s relationship to Lissa is not what was initially believed by the young protagonist. Lissa must adjust to one startling revelation after another, as she must re-locate to the big city, and come to terms with her new family circumstances.

Then, further astounding disclosures happen, as Lissa finds out that her family are involved in high level espionage for the British Government. As she becomes more deeply involved in the family spy business and begins to apprentice in their clandestine activities, murder, danger, intrigue, and even burgeoning romance become part of the whirlwind that is Lissa’s new life as she tries to prevent crimes against the crown.

Along the way, Lissa finds love, and the love interests of the secondary characters are also explored, as all the players attempt to find, or keep their soulmates. But happiness is never straightforward or easy for spies. The reader will wonder if any of those looking for romance or already in romantic pairings will be able to find or maintain happiness and domestic bliss at the end of the book.

I found the character development in the book to be outstanding. Lissa and her family of spies are all well-drawn, very quirky, at times temperamental, and realistic. Their specialized and secretive line of work puts unique pressures on them, requiring great sacrifice, and Bayne does a fantastic job of portraying the complexities of the relationships between the characters that are often directly a result of working for the government as secret agents.

Lissa in particular was fun to read about. She chafes against convention imposed upon a noblewoman, and is determined to not be constrained by her social status. Lissa is bravely resolved to serve her country, alongside her family, in a meaningful way, exposing herself to all the perils that come with the job, as the family works to expose and dismantle a dangerous smuggling cartel.

The secondary characters were lively, and I loved the family dynamics, and the fascinating drama that takes place around the family of spies.

The novel is very well written, engaging, witty, and endearing. Bayne’ research into the period is extensive and exemplary. The author truly captures the period, with all its idiosyncrasies, conventions regarding high society, and complications of life in the Victorian Era regarding gender, class, sex, religion, and science, and government / law enforcement.

Crimes Against the Crown is a highly recommended read for fans of Arthur Conan Doyle, Jane Austen, and any who enjoy a great blend of Regency-era romance with enthralling murder-mystery / espionage / police procedural. Five stars!

[Kelly Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the beginning of "Untitled," the main character, Clarissa (Lissa), tugged at my heartstrings, and I identified with her in many ways. Despite growing up at the tail end of the Georgian Era, Lissa is not restricted to the activities and subjects acceptable to ladies-an unusual privilege of which she takes full advantage. When she learns the truth about her family situation and the valuable service her father gives to their country, she soon becomes an active participant in the family "business." Along the way, a love interest emerges, but the path ahead is not smooth; Lissa and her family and friends, uncover secrets and face dangers that threaten their lives. I recommend this book to any fan of historical fiction. (Trigger warning: One of the main characters is raped.)

[Ivy Logan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book !
I would recommend Untitled as a great read on account of the mastery and prowess of the talented Wendy Bayne to meld historical fiction with romance and wed it with a world of intrigue and villains.
The author's fascination with the 19th century is evident in her writing. This is historical fiction at its best. The attention to detail in describing the society of that period, the social norms, the customs , the traditions, the beautiful mansions is tremendous.
Young Lissa spends her life believing she is illegitimate but it all changes when she is sixteen years old. Her hurt, her sense of betrayal, her loyalty, her ability to sense things unsaid stand out. when she learns the truth. The author has brought out different shades of her character beautifully. Lissa is cast into a world of intrigue at a young age and adapts to it like a fish to water.
I am a romantic at heart. What I love about the book is the chemistry between Lissa and Miles. I was rooting for them from the beginning. As soon as he is introduced one senses that something may happen between the two of them even though they come from two very apparently different worlds.
The author explores all the characters in the book in great detail - their aspirations, their fears, their connections with each other. She creates a sense of empathy in the reader. She makes you feel for the characters as they are injured or face many a high and low.
Crimes Against The Crown is a series that I'm looking forward to exploring. Untitled is only the beginning. As Lissa finds her happily ever after amid chaos, bullets and deaths I wonder what is in store for the lovely young lady, her wonderful Miles and the rest of the family in future books. May there be more happy times and less sorrow !

[Elizabeth Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book and I look forward to reading more from this author.

What a fantastic book. I honestly didn't think it was possible for me to enjoy historical fiction this much. From the first few pages, I loved Lissa and was intrigued to find out what direction her life was about to take. Untitled is an incredibly well-plotted book with twists and turns to keep you guessing. The Turner family are simply wonderful. Their modern mindset regarding the ladies immediately hooked me. Smugglers' plots are unravelled putting everyone's life at risk and yet in the midst of it is a romance.

Each character, plot point and setting has been well-researched and expertly woven into the story. The character's banter is effortless and entertaining to read. As much as I loved Lissa, Miles was my favourite character with his humour.

A great book and I look forward to reading more from this author.

[Eva Alton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story set in Victorian England, one of my favourite settings for a novel. It tells the story of Clarissa, who is a young but very brave and smart girl about to reach adulthood. All characters are extremely real and lovable, starting with Lissa's parents and also her love interest. Clarissa/Lissa has a very modern way of thinking, which is refreshing to find in a story of this kind: but the story seems to fit the time period perfectly, nevertheless. This is a espionage story, so expect action, fights and intrigue. The author keeps you on the tips of your toes up to the last chapter. I loved the descriptions of the locations and the wry humour scattered cunningly throughout the chapters. I would recommend this book to people who enjoyed Downton Abbey, historical espionage and period dramas.

[Helen Garraway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this regency thriller. More mystery and espionage than history- though these headstrong ladies had to work around the social constraints of the time.
Highly recommended, very entertaining and you’ll be routing for Lissa who continually surprises.
Read this as part of the #tweetbookclub on twitter and we all had a great time!

[Christine Letizia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy historical fiction and am always impressed with the dedication to detail and amount of research that is involved to effectively write it well. Wendy Bayne is one of those writers.

This first novel in the Crimes Against the Crown series takes place in post-Napoleonic Europe. Bayne has a remarkable understanding of this time period. It feels like we are instantly transported there. Each detail of the setting and lives of her characters feels authentic.

In this setting, she develops a plot of intrigue which makes us wonder if these sorts of historical figures were hidden in the past, always working and moving in the shadows. The main character, Clarissa (Lissa), has to face many challenges as the truth of her past is revealed and the demands of the present threaten her family's well being. But what I loved about Lissa is how she transcends the structure and inhibitions of the time period. She is an engaging heroine and the heart of this story.

Crimes Against the Crown is a beautiful achievement and a must-read for those who love historical fiction.

[Charlotte Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a bit of historical fiction, and Wendy Bayne has not disappointed. Rich in intrigue and devilishness, this story is a true saga involving mystery and dirty deeds set in the past. Just when you think you have all the pieces in place, Bayne throws another spanner in the works and the plot takes another twist! Her characters are very well crafted, and the settings are beautifully envisioned. I would recommend this book to anyone who would like a foray into the past and who enjoys plot twists and the unexpected. I look forward to the next book in the series to see what Lissa, Miles and the others get up to next!

[Danni Connelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mere two pages into this novel, and I was completely hooked! It’s a delightful and authentic-feeling escape into an earlier and very intriguing time period. I absolutely love historical fiction, and this book has EVERYTHING that I look for in a novel of this genre! However, even if you are not normally a fan of historical fiction, I would still recommend giving Untitled a try, as Bayne’s writing style, the engaging, well-rounded characters, and the exciting plot would likely appeal to a very wide range of readers! I will definitely be checking out the sequel!!

[Eileen Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical fiction will have you on the edge of your seat. Set in the 1800’s England, the story centers on a girl named Lissa, whose origins are murky and whose childhood has been difficult, to say the least.

She moves to London and becomes a spy. This book has plot twists, derring-do, and thrilling fight scenes. Oh, and romance.

Great saga that I heartily recommend.

[T.R. Hamby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Bayne does a wonderful job engaging you in the spy world during the early 19th century. There is never a dull moment with Alissa’s adventures. Some good twists and turns to make it exciting. I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next in the series!

[Sloane McClain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It kept me entertained from the first page. Filled with intrigue and adventure, plus romance, it had everything I love and more. The second one is in my TBR pile now!

[Patty Gilman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Marian Thorpe]

A post-Napoleonic war story full of twists and turns, unacknowledged children, secret marriages, espionage and danger. I was thoroughly entertained; it would make a mini-series to rival Bridgerton!

[Eve Koguce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beau monde of London and smugglers of the Dorset coast. Dark secrets and suddenly answered hopes. Aristocracy and working class. Unpunished crimes and long-overdue justice. All of it and more is found in “Untitled: Crimes Against the Crown” by Wendy Bayne, the first instalment of this exciting historical series.

The beginning of the story lulls you into believing you are about to read one kind of book, something like “Jane Eyre” or “Mansfield Park”. You prepare yourself to read the story of a young girl’s coming-of-age struggle in a somewhat familiar setting of a big, rich house with an uncaring and cruel father and them, in a matter of several pages, you simply get blown away by the story moving into the direction you could have never foreseen.

The book is full of diverse characters; some of them are likeable, others – absolutely adorable, with quite a significant number of those who can fight for the number one villain status. I liked that there are also such characters who astonished me by showing their true faces. Another thing I liked about the book is that it offers some deeply satisfying turns in the characters’ lives.

Reading this book was like being transported back in time and transplanted into characters’ reality. I woke up and went to bed with them, enjoyed tasty meals in the warm circle of friends and family, and felt my insides shiver with fright that we – pardon, they! – won’t make it through yet another dangerous trouble.

In the most unique way, “Untitled: Crimes Against the Crown” combines a page-turner, which doesn’t let you stop reading, with a rich narrative that draws detailed pictures of the events and also offers a deep understanding of the characters.

“Untitled: Crimes Against the Crown” is a multi-dimensional book full of adventure, risky endeavours, heart-melting love stories, and high society intrigues. I won’t even try to guess what the next instalment of the series hides between its pages since the author has confidently proved that it would be a futile attempt.

In addition to the intriguing plot twists and compelling characters, it was a special pleasure visualising pirates and smugglers roaming the familiar coast of Dorset and Cornwall. Many years ago, walking along the winding coast paths, my imagination drew exactly such scenes amidst the dangerous cliffs and angry, frothy waves of the majestic Jurassic Coast.

[Veronica Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dramatic, life change is in store for sixteen year old, Clarissa 'Lissa' Hughes when her sister, Irene makes a shocking announcement. She's marrying Colin Turner and taking Clarissa away from the family estate and the man she knew as her father to live with them in London. As they prepare for the exodus, deep, family secrets emerge that shift relationships and explain to some extent the troubled environment with its bittersweet past in which Lissa was raised. Will she adjust to newly revealed, family roles with Irene and Colin, and the formidable, societal norms in London?

A violent act threatens the newly formed family, leading yet to more revelations of the dangerous work Colin and his team of family and friends perform on behalf of the Crown. Lissa receives a unique and rather unorthodox education for a young lady entering society. When she meets Colin's cohort, Miles Johnson, the beginnings of a new friendship warm their hearts as they share similar, troubled, childhood experiences. As the dangerous workings evolve and close-in, it will take everyone working in synch to catch the evil masterminds. Will the newly formed relationships survive?

Author Bayne has written a epoch tale filled with family drama, dangerous endeavors and the changes that result and evolve in the family with their friends and colleagues over the years. Love, hate, greed and revenge run rampant throughout, leading to many heartwarming, bittersweet, and danger-filled moments for the reader. I am so looking forward to continuing with this incredible series, highly recommended!

[Daisy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful read

Wendy Bayne’s remarkable gambol through the early years of 19th Century, chronicles the young life of Clarissa Turner who has a very articulate and enquiring mind, which to my mind, equals that of ‘Enola Holmes’. Her early life has taught her, that to find out anything, one must resort to subterfuge. Brought up in the wilds of Northumberland, she has learnt to be seen but not heard, and it is only when she is spirited away from Northumberland, that she discovers her true parentage, and thence becomes embroiled in the world of subterfuge, spies, danger, and a ring of smugglers where many lives are threatened.
The story takes us on a wild ride from the streets of London to the post-Napoleonic times in France, then back to Cornwall. There is danger, love, but there is also humour, which is what makes this story so enjoyably unique. Wendy Bayne’s writing engages you completely, and her descriptions of that era are beautifully written, allowing you to become immersed in the story from the beginning.
It is an amazing read, I loved!

[Elana MCDougall · Rating 5 out of 5]

AN EXCITING ROLLERCOASTER RIDE OF MYSTERY, INTRIGUE and ADVENTURE

Wendy Bayne draws you into Georgian England where a noble family and its staff of rogues serve the Crown as diplomats and spies

Clarissa Hughes' world is shaken to its core when she learns her true identity. Long held family secrets are laid bare and she suddenly thrust into a world of espionage and danger. No one can be trusted. Deception and danger threaten. No one is as they appear even the man she comes to love.

The author deftly juggles multiple plot lines taking the reader from the salons of London's Beau Monde to the prisons of France. Clarissa's spunky nature allows her to participate as an equal whether it is fighting off home invaders with local Roma in Cornwall or investigating mysteries in France.

Those who enjoy plot twists and historical romances will happily lose themselves in this fascinating story.

[Cathleen Maza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This engaging story opens with a somewhat sullen, sixteen-year-old Clarissa (Lissa) Hughes trying to prepare herself for some very unexpected life changes that will carry her away from the life she's always known. From that point on, readers are continually drawn deeper into the unfolding plot by a myriad of family secrets, shifting alliances, and dangerous undertakings. These three elements are woven in with bits of action and suspense to keep the overall storyline well paced through every twist and turn. (And there are many!) Readers will find it a delightful experience to follow Lissa's story and to witness her evolve throughout the changing circumstances of her life. At over seven-hundred pages, this is a hefty read, but highly recommended for fans of historical fiction!

[Jami Fairleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Untitled is a book Jane Austen might have written if she'd grown up watching James Bond films. Author Wendy Bayne takes her characters on a roller coaster of a journey. Just when you think the characters will stroll away into their happily-ever-afters, Bayne throws in another plot twist. Although the protagonist comes from a privileged background, I enjoyed how Bayne mixed classes, cultures, and showed the Roma in a positive light. Note, this book is very long, so if you enjoy historical fiction set during the Pax Britannica era, family dramas, and watching villains get what is coming to them, you'll more than get your money's worth with this book!

[K.T. McGivens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully intriguing historical novel full of intricate plot twists, suspense, and romance. The main character, Clarissa Hughes, is a loveable strong independent young woman from a wealthy family. But there is much more to her story than meets the eye! Enter plots, spies, gypsies, and people with questionable pasts. Wendy Bayne engages the reader from the very first page and you will not want to put the book down until all is revealed! A wonderful story for those who enjoy a timeless tale set in a world of horses, carriages, pistols, swords, gallantry, and romance!

[B.L. Cagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

To never have read this genre until now. I found myself completely drawn in and intrigued with this story.
I felt like I was a part of the story. And the story and the characters are so well developed and brought to life.
There is so much in this book to love. It will leave you with so many emotions.
I could easily see this as a series on Netflix.
I recommend this series to anyone who wants to be taken away into the past brought to life.
And even better… there are a lot more books in this series to continue.

[E.P. Stavs · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful story that follows the life of a young woman named Clarissa as she adjusts to life with her newly discovered (and somewhat mysterious) parents. With plenty of action, romance, and espionage, this is the perfect book for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and long, in-depth stories. Well done!

[Eli B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful historical adventure

Although I enjoyed the story immensely and could have read it twice the length it is and not complained. The typos were annoying and were throughout the book. If you can get passed them it’s a delightful story. If the author ever chooses to edit it again look for homonym errors and the like.

[Tess P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets and spies, espionage and excitement, loyalty and betrayal. Untitled by Bayne, first in her Crimes against the Crown series, packs a punch from the beginning until the end with a swathe of complex characters and hidden agendas. Historical drama at its best.

[H.G. Ahedi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Filled with mystery and excitement from the beginning. I really enjoyed this book. Lissa grew on me pretty quickly and I love the fact that she is so brave, smart and quiet capable of thinking on her feet.
Highly recommend.

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this adventurous book, which evoked a good Jane Austen novel, though with a bit more violence and thrills.

[Erica · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story rambled and could have benefited from a dev edit. It might fit better in the YA category.

It was an amusing read, but I won't continue the series.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

UNTITLED: CRIMES AGAINST THE CROWN is such a great book! It’s a mix of historical fiction, suspense and a lovely slow-burn romance that doesn’t appear right away but once it does, you’re completely engrossed in shipping Clarissa and Miles and have to have more of their romance. Set in 1820’s England, UNTITLED chronicles the story of a family that has many secrets, some of which come to light as Clarissa, our main character, turns sixteen and learns her parents are not who she always believed them to be. The title is very fitting as in this time period, your fate is tied to the circumstances of your birth—for better or worse, and hanging on to property and wealth can often force one into circumstances they would never choose. As I finished this novel, which is absolutely excellent in its historical detail, I found that what I came away with was how attached I was to the characters. Irene and Colin. Clarissa and Miles. Samuel. This is an interesting and complex cast and there’s lots going on to keep them on their toes. I loved the devotion the characters had to one another, and especially Irene and Colin to Clarissa. I loved Clarissa and Miles together and definitely want to see what happens next for them. 5/5 stars.

[J.C. Paulson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Untitled is an epic saga . . . and this book is just the first in a series.
I took it to bed with me every night, becoming increasingly absorbed in the intrigue, complexities and secrets of Lissa Hughes' life.
Told from her perspective, Untitled references Miles Johnson, who creeps into the story in its early goings but becomes a main character as we move through questions of heritage, battles and travels, family dinners and shifting alliances, smuggling and spying.
Set in 1820s Victorian England and France, we also wander moors and arrive agape at manor homes by carriage or on horseback. The settings of Untitled add that sense of place and time so crucial to an elegant work of historical fiction.
I have to say the long, rather slow-burn main romance was perhaps my favourite part of this sweeping story. Ahhh . . . love.
One reviewer has described this novel as something "Jane Austen might have written if she'd grown up watching James Bond films." Ha! Love that. I would also say Untitled is the perfect read for historical fiction fans of works like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey.