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The Other Trents #2
Lord Maxwell's Quest
Lord Maxwell Trent has never remained in one place for long. His fascination for history and quest for antiquities have taken him from Pompeii to Greece to India to Egypt, and now the search of an ancient sword has brought him to London—and back into Miss Rosemary Fairview’s orbit.
Miss Fairview has always valued her independence. Raised by travel-mad parents and fascinated by her mother’s archaeological journals, she knew that she’d never be content to settle into the dull life of running a household. When word of the lost sword brings Rosemary to London, she finds herself in pursuit of the same relic as her nemesis, Lord Maxwell Trent.
They know it’s impossible the sword once belonged to The Maid of Orléans. But that one sliver of hope, the what-if, propels them on the quest to discover the truth.
Danger stalks them from Mayfair’s drawing rooms to the maze of London’s rookeries. Can they work together to find the sword—and to survive? And will they realize that perhaps they shouldn’t have been competitors at all, but something more?
Miss Fairview has always valued her independence. Raised by travel-mad parents and fascinated by her mother’s archaeological journals, she knew that she’d never be content to settle into the dull life of running a household. When word of the lost sword brings Rosemary to London, she finds herself in pursuit of the same relic as her nemesis, Lord Maxwell Trent.
They know it’s impossible the sword once belonged to The Maid of Orléans. But that one sliver of hope, the what-if, propels them on the quest to discover the truth.
Danger stalks them from Mayfair’s drawing rooms to the maze of London’s rookeries. Can they work together to find the sword—and to survive? And will they realize that perhaps they shouldn’t have been competitors at all, but something more?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2021
8 people are currently reading
1060 people want to read
About the author
Jane Charles
175 books390 followersUSA Today bestselling author Jane Charles is a prolific writer of over fifty historical and contemporary romance novels. Her love of research and history lends authenticity to her Regency romances, and her experience directing theatre productions helps her craft beautiful, touching stories that tug at the heartstrings. Jane is an upbeat and positive author dedicated to giving her characters happy-ever-afters and leaving the readers satisfied at the end of an emotional journey. She is a lifelong Cubs fan, loves wine tastings, and lives in Central Illinois with her two huskies and husband. She is currently writing her next book while planning her dream trip to Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 14, 2021
3.5 stars, rounded up
Lord Maxwell Trent and Miss Rosemary Fairview have known each other for ages and have been bickering for almost as long – they are both well-known antiquity hunters and have long been rivals in that field, but what neither knows is that they each have harbored a secret attraction to the other, but deny said attraction for various reasons, but primarily they both believe that they are not suited, Max believes Rosemary too reckless, and she believes he is too controlling. They are cordial and polite but go out of their way to avoid each other – a plan that has worked until now.
When a mutual friend invites them to find what may be one of Joan of Arc’s swords and return it to the rightful owner before their mutual nemesis – Rylan, a mercenary of sorts who works for Mr. Otto Fernsby, a reclusive collector who will stop at nothing to get what he wants, they will have to learn to work together or lose the sword to Fernsby. They reluctantly agree and set off, but almost immediately they realize Rylan is hot on their trail and isn’t content on waiting for them to find the sword before coming after them.
While dodging Ryland and searching for the sword, Rosemary and Max realize that there is a lot they don’t know about each other and find a new respect for one another, but even that knowledge isn’t enough to make either of them share their secret admiration. It isn’t until they find the sword and confront Fernsby that they finally admit their feelings, but by then, it might be too late for them to have a HEA.
This was a good read, with interesting characters and cameos from not only the “Other Trents”, but the Tenacious Trents too, as well as a nod to “The Wiggons’ School for Elegant Young Ladies” series. The story was good, but I felt it dragged a bit in the middle, and Rosemary and Max’s constant bickering got tedious after a while. The mystery of the sword was OK, the love scenes were very mild, but the ending is what makes this book – it was a fantastic twist that leads to a nail-biter ending! This is the second book in the series, but they are definitely standalone titles.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Lord Maxwell Trent and Miss Rosemary Fairview have known each other for ages and have been bickering for almost as long – they are both well-known antiquity hunters and have long been rivals in that field, but what neither knows is that they each have harbored a secret attraction to the other, but deny said attraction for various reasons, but primarily they both believe that they are not suited, Max believes Rosemary too reckless, and she believes he is too controlling. They are cordial and polite but go out of their way to avoid each other – a plan that has worked until now.
When a mutual friend invites them to find what may be one of Joan of Arc’s swords and return it to the rightful owner before their mutual nemesis – Rylan, a mercenary of sorts who works for Mr. Otto Fernsby, a reclusive collector who will stop at nothing to get what he wants, they will have to learn to work together or lose the sword to Fernsby. They reluctantly agree and set off, but almost immediately they realize Rylan is hot on their trail and isn’t content on waiting for them to find the sword before coming after them.
While dodging Ryland and searching for the sword, Rosemary and Max realize that there is a lot they don’t know about each other and find a new respect for one another, but even that knowledge isn’t enough to make either of them share their secret admiration. It isn’t until they find the sword and confront Fernsby that they finally admit their feelings, but by then, it might be too late for them to have a HEA.
This was a good read, with interesting characters and cameos from not only the “Other Trents”, but the Tenacious Trents too, as well as a nod to “The Wiggons’ School for Elegant Young Ladies” series. The story was good, but I felt it dragged a bit in the middle, and Rosemary and Max’s constant bickering got tedious after a while. The mystery of the sword was OK, the love scenes were very mild, but the ending is what makes this book – it was a fantastic twist that leads to a nail-biter ending! This is the second book in the series, but they are definitely standalone titles.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
July 18, 2021
Max an Rosemary are a team that sometimes work well together. Then there’s other times why would you put these two in the same room? The book reads with a fast pace. It’s a page turner for people who enjoys the mystery and adventures of a love story. The dialogue and conversations wasn’t confusing. I was able to follow the story very well. The characters were definitely funny to me, but they were written well fir the story. The details of the settings was clear allowing me to have a good visual of what the writer conveys to her readers.
August 17, 2021
Lord Maxwell Trent has never remained in one place for long. His fascination for history and quest for antiquities have taken him from Pompeii to Greece to India to Egypt, and now the search of an ancient sword has brought him to London and back into Miss Rosemary Fairview’s orbit. Miss Fairview has always valued her independence. Raised by travel-mad parents and fascinated by her mother’s archaeological journals, she knew that she’d never be content to settle into the dull life of running a household. When word of the lost sword brings Rosemary to London, she finds herself in pursuit of the same relic as her nemesis, Lord Maxwell Trent. They know it’s impossible the sword once belonged to The Maid of Orléans. But that one sliver of hope, the what-if, propels them on the quest to discover the truth. Danger stalks them from Mayfair’s drawing rooms to the maze of London’s rookeries.
A well written fast paced book with lots of adventure & a lovely romance. I loved both Max & Rosemary whose attraction sizzled even when they were at odds. I loved their verbal banter & their internal doubts. I also loved that there wasn’t a ballroom in sight. I also loved that the story started in Jerusalem, where the pace was fast & I was kept on the edge of my seat all the way through. An enthralling read, which I just devoured
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A well written fast paced book with lots of adventure & a lovely romance. I loved both Max & Rosemary whose attraction sizzled even when they were at odds. I loved their verbal banter & their internal doubts. I also loved that there wasn’t a ballroom in sight. I also loved that the story started in Jerusalem, where the pace was fast & I was kept on the edge of my seat all the way through. An enthralling read, which I just devoured
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 23, 2021
This story is an amazing mix of romance and mystery... We have two characters who are in love with each other but they speak on their feelings so neither one knows how the other one feels. Both characters are absolutely amazing.. I loved this story from beginning to end.
I received this as a gift from the Author in exchange for an honest review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's views
I received this as a gift from the Author in exchange for an honest review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's views
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August 22, 2021 Coming 8/24/21
The two hurried through the narrow, crooked streets of Jerusalem while Max also kept a lookout for Rylan or one of his men until Rosemary rounded a corner and paused at a ladder. After she hiked the front of her skirts and tucked them into her waist, she began to climb. Max followed but stayed close enough so as not to see beneath her skirts, but far enough down so that he wasn’t looking at her bum. At the most, he glimpsed black stockinged legs as she lifted herself onto the roof.
He also wished he hadn’t seen her shapely legs because for five years his imagination had been bad enough. He’d fought his desire, even when arguing with her, because Max also knew that they’d never suit and if he pursued her, he’d likely end up in Bedlam. She was far too headstrong, far too beautiful, far too independent, and far too desirable. A lethal combination for a gentleman who wished to retain freedom from matrimony.
https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
Coming 8/24/21
Playing at being Rosemary’s husband was rather enjoyable, especially when she blushed at Madame LeFante’s assumption that they’d made good use of the bed the night before. Max wished that they had, but he also reminded himself that Rosemary was an innocent miss, despite her travels and worldly knowledge, and he’d not touch her.
So, what had possessed him to smack her on the behind? It was as if an imp poked him, and Max had reacted before he stopped to consider what he was about to do.
He shook away the question as it was likely he’d never know why he’d acted in such an impulsive manner.
“Don’t you ever smack me on the bum again,” she hissed once they stepped out onto the street.
“Aren’t husbands supposed to do so?” he asked innocently.
“I’ve no idea what they do in private, but certainly not in a public room in front of others.”
“I’m certain a good deal of bum slapping and other things went on in Madame LeFante’s home prior to it becoming a respectful boarding house,” he reminded her, simply for a reaction.
“Yes, I’ve no doubt, but I’m not a tart.” With a huff, Rosemary stuck her nose in the air and marched off.
Oh, he did so love vexing her.
Max hurried to catch up then took her arm. “This way, dear.”
“Oh, quit calling me that. I am not your dear.”
Though he wished she were.
Max stilled for a moment. Where had that thought come from? Rosemary certainly was not his dear, nor would she ever be.
It was the playacting, that was all and once they found the sword and parted ways, he’d not think of her as such again.
https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
Meet Miss Rosemary Fairview
Miss Rosemary Fairview – Traveler, Independent, Adventurer, Competitive —A Regency Era relic hunter.
Rosemary is the only daughter of Sir William and Caroline* Fairview. He is a former Lieutenant Colonel, and his wife followed the drum. When he retired, Sir William and Caroline continued their travels and participated in archeological excavations. During this time, Caroline journaled daily of their adventures. When the journals were full, she mailed them to her daughter who was still back in England.
That daughter was Miss Rosemary Fairview, tucked safely away at the Wiggons’ School for Elegant Young Ladies. If you read this series, you will know that Rosemary was part of the Terrible Trio because she was often getting up to mischief usually instigated by her dear friend Eliza.
Back then, Rosemary was indecisive, often pulled in two directions. One being Eliza who often threw caution to the wind and often taking dangerous chances. The other, Lady Sophia Trent, who was reasonable and cautious. Eliza’s strong personality usually won.
That was then.
Much has changed for Rosemary since she left school and joined her parents in Egypt. She was ready for her own adventure after reading her mother’s journals, but now she realized that it was in her blood, and there was no looking back.
In time, she overcame being timid, indecisive, and found independence.
There is only one thing she has not been able to let go of from her past, and that is her infatuation for Lord Maxwell Trent. It took root when she was all of thirteen, and never let go. He has never seen Rosemary as anything other than a friend to his younger sister, and he was as protective as how she assumed an older brother would be. So much so that the first time Max saw Rosemary in Egypt, he tried to send her back to the safety of England where innocent misses belonged. Hurt, and irritated, Rosemary vowed to forget Lord Maxwell Trent and embrace her next adventure.
This is also the very reason she announced that she’d be the first to find a stolen antiquity while they were both present at the Babylon Exhibition. That was the first challenge, and many more followed with Lord Maxwell Trent being her constant nemesis.
*I’m not certain that I ever gave Rosemary’s mother a name. If I did, I can’t locate it so for the purpose of this post, she is now Caroline.
Lord Maxwell's Quest will be available on all sites 8/24/21 and available for preorder now. Books2Read: https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
To stay up to date on characters, books, or just to have fun, please join my private reader group Romance & Rosé: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roman...
Fact-Finding Friday ~ Missing Relics of Joan of Arc
When I first added Maxwell Trent to the family tree of The “Other” Trents, I knew that he was off somewhere and traveled, but I hadn’t committed to a reason until I wrote Kissing the Lass, when his brother Gideon stated, “Maxwell is an Antiquarian. He loves history and relics and has gone on a number of digs.”
That was all well and good for Max until it was time to write his story. I could have placed him at any number of excavations like Pompeii, Babylon, Athens, and many more. But I also wanted him to be a Regency Era Relic Hunter, which meant, I needed a “relic” for him to go after.
I could have invented a fictional antiquity and given it a backstory of why it was sought after, but I like to dip my toe into history and began research into relics never found and still sought. The first site I landed on was https://historycollection.com/religio....
This site lists the following items:
1) The Holy Foreskin from when Jesus was circumcised. While interesting, I couldn’t see Max and Rosemary going on a quest for foreskin, so I moved on.
2) The Ring of Saint Edward. Having Max and Rosemary search for the ring didn’t feel right, so I moved one.
3) The True Cross. Many churches claim to have a piece of the Cross, and I’m sure some have gone missing through history, I didn’t spend a lot of time trying to find information on one. However, there is a mention of some pieces of the cross in Lord Maxwell’s Quest and will be the subject in a future post.
4) Veil of Veronica. This has been missing since the Sack of Rome in 1527.
5) The Ark of the Covenant. Max may be a relic hunter, but he’s not Indiana Jones.
6) Relic of Saint Christopher. I’m not real clear on what this is, but it had been placed in a small box of crystals at the base of a statue of St. Christopher.
7) Holy Grail. Who hasn’t searched for this?
8) Relics of Joan of Arc. “There was also a sword that belonged to Joan and was kept by the descendants of her brother Pierre until it was lost during the chaos of the revolutionary period in France.” This intrigued me.
Joan of Arc was a peasant and at the age of 19 rose to be a leader of French forces in 1431. Many of us are familiar with her story, but I never gave any consideration to what became of her belongings until I read this article and dug deeper.
“[The standard] remained [in the cathedral of Orleans] for three hundred and sixty years, and then was destroyed in a public bonfire, together with two swords, a plumed cap, several suits of state apparel, and other relics of the Maid, by a mob in the time of the Revolution. Nothing which the hand of Joan of Arc is known to have touched remains in existence except a few preciously guarded military and state papers which she signed, her pen being guided by her clerk or her secretary…a boulder exists from which she is known to have mounted her horse when she was once setting out upon a campaign. Up to a quarter of a century ago [c.1860] there was a single hair from her head still in existence. It was drawn through the wax of a seal attached to the parchment of a state document. It was surreptitiously snipped out, seal and all, by some vandal relic-hunter and carried off. Doubtless it still exists, but only the thief knows where” (Mark Twain, Joan of Arc (Ignatius Press: San Francisco, 1988), pp. 314-315).
http://unamsanctamcatholicam.blogspot...
Other research indicated that during the Revolution, a sword and ring in the possession of Pierre’s descendants disappeared, but her letters survived.
This had me questioning how many swords were owned by The Maid of Orléans, and sent me down a rabbit hole of seeking out information on these swords.
According to some articles I read, one sword she’d captured from a Burgundian during a battle, one was given to her in Vaucouleurs by Sir Robert de Baudricourt, and the third, found buried behind the altar in the chapel of Saint Catherine.
While there is nothing unusual about how she came about the first two swords, it is the third that holds the most interest.
The story is that after she received her armor and horse, Joan was offered a sword, which she refused. It is said that voices instructed Joan where her sword would be found. After it was unearthed in Saint Catherine, the priest set to clean it, but the rust fell away. There are many legends about the sword. Some say that it belonged to Charles Martel, grandfather of Charlemagne, and it was secretly buried for the next person whom God would choose to find it and save France.
She did not carry this sword into battle but wore it only for ceremony until after she left St. Denis after the attack on Paris. Some report that she also used the sword when she chased down prostitutes and camp followers, swatting them with it. Some say that it was broken during such an incident, which was upsetting to everyone, and some considered it a bad omen.
By the way, if you are keeping count – we are now up to 4 swords
2 swords destroyed during the Revolution
1 sword disappeared from Pierre’s descendants
1 sword broken on a trollop’s back
Nobody knows for certain if it was the St. Catherine sword that was broken, however, and from what I found, she never said. In fact, when questioned during her trial, Joan stated, “to tell what became of my other sword does not concern this case, and I will not answer about it now. My brothers have all my goods – my horses, my sword, so far as I know, and the rest, which are worth more than twelve thousand crowns’.”
While she wouldn’t say what became of the sword, she also answered that her brother had all her goods, including her sword. So, did she answer and not answer?
I’m certain there are other stories and rumors involving her swords, but the above is what my characters chose to believe. Given that one disappeared during the French Revolution (1789-1799) and Lord Maxwell’s Quest takes place in 1815, I decided that my characters would believe it possible that the sword had been found and made it’s way to England. Thus, the quest was on.
Lord Maxwell’s Quest will be made available on all sites 8/24/21. https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
If you want to keep up with news of upcoming novels, talk characters, or just have fun, join my private reader group Romance & Rosé: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roman...
COMING 8/24/21
“It’s a pleasure to see you again, Miss Fairview.” His tone cool and polite.
He was still angry. “But we both know that it is not,” she smiled at him.
“Yes well, it’s best not to deceive oneself,” Maxwell muttered and strode toward the sideboard and poured a glass of brandy. “Did you make good on your promise and deliver the scroll you stole from me to the Vatican.”
She gasped. “I did not steal from you, Lord Maxwell. I simply found it before you had a chance to do so. And yes, I delivered it to the good Father.”
Maxwell snorted. “Stole,” he muttered under his breath.
Rosemary had found it first, as he well knew, so why was he grumbling about her stealing?
Except, Max didn’t really mean him. He was angry that she had taken the scroll from Jerusalem. However, she had more faith in the priests at the Vatican than he did, and as soon as the translation was provided, she’d return the scroll to Palestine and deliver it to the rightful owner. It was that simple.
Max returned to her side, now holding a glass of brandy, and stared down at her. Rosemary’s breath hitched as she looked up into his blue eyes.
Blast, she shouldn’t react to him at all, but she did. He was both aggravating and handsome and it irritated her that she was affected by his presence at all. It was an attraction she was almost able to set aside when seeking and finding antiquities, but in settings such as this, taking tea, she became all too aware of how much she desired him, and had for several years. This was also the very setting when she’d first met him. She’d only been a girl of thirteen, but infatuation for the rogue had taken root and remained a constant companion.
She’d also never let him know that he had any effect on her whatsoever.
“A word, Miss Fairview,” Max ground out.
Rosemary blew out a sigh and set her tea aside before she followed him out onto the terrace.
“Why did you just lie to everyone and accuse me of theft?” she demanded.
“Because I couldn’t tell them the true reason why I’m angry because it would put your reputation in jeopardy.”
Rosemary blinked at him. “Reputation?”
He hitched a brow.
“Oh, you mean that I snuck out of your chamber, with the scroll, after spending the night with you and without so much as a by your leave?” She grinned. “Like a lover sneaking away after a night of passion?”
He quickly glanced around. “Please lower your voice before someone thinks we are lovers.”
It stung that he’d be embarrassed or ashamed if someone thought he’d been with her. Or it could be because he was respectable. Sometimes Max was more prudish than the few matrons she’d met in Society.
“That is exactly to what I’m referring. Your disappearance that is,” he added.
“I left you a note,” Rosemary reminded him.
https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
Meet Lord Maxwell Trent
Coming 8/24/21
Lord Maxwell Trent - A scholar, antiquarian, traveler, archeologist—A Regency Era relic hunter.
He is the second son of Lord Jonas Trent, Marquess Hopkins and Heloise Billaud, and carries the unofficial title of the spare. Max is quite happy with the order of his birth and never wanted to be the heir, as he knew before he was ever out of short pants that he did not want to have the title nor the responsibility of being the next marquess. And, if we are being completely honest, he breathed a sigh of relief when his brother, Tristan (The Forgotten Marquess ~ The “Other” Trents) was blessed with an heir of his own. Max also secretly hopes that Tristan will have more sons, pushing him further away from the title.
Following Maxwell’s arrival in this world came his twin brother, Gideon (Kissing the Lass ~ Scot to the Heart Series). Perhaps the order of their birth was a sign of their future. While Gideon is more settled and enjoys staying in England, and penning novels, it was Maxwell who wished to venture out into the world.
Max is a lover of history but assumed that his future was that of a fellow at Oxford or Harvard, teaching what he loved most. His father, however, hoped that Max and Gideon would follow in his footsteps and work in the Home Office, spying on France on behalf of England. The twins did attempt to do so. However, Gideon was soon captured by the French, which led to the need to rescue him, and both determining that neither were suited for the life of espionage.
Two life changing decisions occurred during this time. The first, their younger sister, Sophia*, secretly traveled to France because she did want to be a spy too. There, she met a spy of her own, fell in love, married, and moved to Italy.
The second decision was the one that Max made. He didn’t want to return to England to study antiquities found by others, and only read about history in the pages of a book. He wanted his own adventures and to make his own discoveries and set out on a journey that took him to excavations in Pompeii, Greece, Egypt, just to name a few, and has sought missing antiquities on his own. Max soon earned a reputation for locating and retrieving that which had been stolen and returning it to the rightful owner, and for following rumors of relics discovered by others. At one time he’d given found religious antiquities to the Vatican but halted that practice after a short time as he believed that any antiquity discovered should remain within the country in which it was found as they were the rightful owner.
Though others have often sought the same relic as he, only one has ever been a thorn in his side—Miss Rosemary Fairview, who also happens to be one of his sisters’ dearest friends.
https://books2read.com/u/bQZ7D3
The two hurried through the narrow, crooked streets of Jerusalem while Max also kept a lookout for Rylan or one of his men until Rosemary rounded a corner and paused at a ladder. After she hiked the front of her skirts and tucked them into her waist, she began to climb. Max followed but stayed close enough so as not to see beneath her skirts, but far enough down so that he wasn’t looking at her bum. At the most, he glimpsed black stockinged legs as she lifted herself onto the roof.
He also wished he hadn’t seen her shapely legs because for five years his imagination had been bad enough. He’d fought his desire, even when arguing with her, because Max also knew that they’d never suit and if he pursued her, he’d likely end up in Bedlam. She was far too headstrong, far too beautiful, far too independent, and far too desirable. A lethal combination for a gentleman who wished to retain freedom from matrimony.
https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
Coming 8/24/21
Playing at being Rosemary’s husband was rather enjoyable, especially when she blushed at Madame LeFante’s assumption that they’d made good use of the bed the night before. Max wished that they had, but he also reminded himself that Rosemary was an innocent miss, despite her travels and worldly knowledge, and he’d not touch her.
So, what had possessed him to smack her on the behind? It was as if an imp poked him, and Max had reacted before he stopped to consider what he was about to do.
He shook away the question as it was likely he’d never know why he’d acted in such an impulsive manner.
“Don’t you ever smack me on the bum again,” she hissed once they stepped out onto the street.
“Aren’t husbands supposed to do so?” he asked innocently.
“I’ve no idea what they do in private, but certainly not in a public room in front of others.”
“I’m certain a good deal of bum slapping and other things went on in Madame LeFante’s home prior to it becoming a respectful boarding house,” he reminded her, simply for a reaction.
“Yes, I’ve no doubt, but I’m not a tart.” With a huff, Rosemary stuck her nose in the air and marched off.
Oh, he did so love vexing her.
Max hurried to catch up then took her arm. “This way, dear.”
“Oh, quit calling me that. I am not your dear.”
Though he wished she were.
Max stilled for a moment. Where had that thought come from? Rosemary certainly was not his dear, nor would she ever be.
It was the playacting, that was all and once they found the sword and parted ways, he’d not think of her as such again.
https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
Meet Miss Rosemary Fairview
Miss Rosemary Fairview – Traveler, Independent, Adventurer, Competitive —A Regency Era relic hunter.
Rosemary is the only daughter of Sir William and Caroline* Fairview. He is a former Lieutenant Colonel, and his wife followed the drum. When he retired, Sir William and Caroline continued their travels and participated in archeological excavations. During this time, Caroline journaled daily of their adventures. When the journals were full, she mailed them to her daughter who was still back in England.
That daughter was Miss Rosemary Fairview, tucked safely away at the Wiggons’ School for Elegant Young Ladies. If you read this series, you will know that Rosemary was part of the Terrible Trio because she was often getting up to mischief usually instigated by her dear friend Eliza.
Back then, Rosemary was indecisive, often pulled in two directions. One being Eliza who often threw caution to the wind and often taking dangerous chances. The other, Lady Sophia Trent, who was reasonable and cautious. Eliza’s strong personality usually won.
That was then.
Much has changed for Rosemary since she left school and joined her parents in Egypt. She was ready for her own adventure after reading her mother’s journals, but now she realized that it was in her blood, and there was no looking back.
In time, she overcame being timid, indecisive, and found independence.
There is only one thing she has not been able to let go of from her past, and that is her infatuation for Lord Maxwell Trent. It took root when she was all of thirteen, and never let go. He has never seen Rosemary as anything other than a friend to his younger sister, and he was as protective as how she assumed an older brother would be. So much so that the first time Max saw Rosemary in Egypt, he tried to send her back to the safety of England where innocent misses belonged. Hurt, and irritated, Rosemary vowed to forget Lord Maxwell Trent and embrace her next adventure.
This is also the very reason she announced that she’d be the first to find a stolen antiquity while they were both present at the Babylon Exhibition. That was the first challenge, and many more followed with Lord Maxwell Trent being her constant nemesis.
*I’m not certain that I ever gave Rosemary’s mother a name. If I did, I can’t locate it so for the purpose of this post, she is now Caroline.
Lord Maxwell's Quest will be available on all sites 8/24/21 and available for preorder now. Books2Read: https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
To stay up to date on characters, books, or just to have fun, please join my private reader group Romance & Rosé: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roman...
Fact-Finding Friday ~ Missing Relics of Joan of Arc
When I first added Maxwell Trent to the family tree of The “Other” Trents, I knew that he was off somewhere and traveled, but I hadn’t committed to a reason until I wrote Kissing the Lass, when his brother Gideon stated, “Maxwell is an Antiquarian. He loves history and relics and has gone on a number of digs.”
That was all well and good for Max until it was time to write his story. I could have placed him at any number of excavations like Pompeii, Babylon, Athens, and many more. But I also wanted him to be a Regency Era Relic Hunter, which meant, I needed a “relic” for him to go after.
I could have invented a fictional antiquity and given it a backstory of why it was sought after, but I like to dip my toe into history and began research into relics never found and still sought. The first site I landed on was https://historycollection.com/religio....
This site lists the following items:
1) The Holy Foreskin from when Jesus was circumcised. While interesting, I couldn’t see Max and Rosemary going on a quest for foreskin, so I moved on.
2) The Ring of Saint Edward. Having Max and Rosemary search for the ring didn’t feel right, so I moved one.
3) The True Cross. Many churches claim to have a piece of the Cross, and I’m sure some have gone missing through history, I didn’t spend a lot of time trying to find information on one. However, there is a mention of some pieces of the cross in Lord Maxwell’s Quest and will be the subject in a future post.
4) Veil of Veronica. This has been missing since the Sack of Rome in 1527.
5) The Ark of the Covenant. Max may be a relic hunter, but he’s not Indiana Jones.
6) Relic of Saint Christopher. I’m not real clear on what this is, but it had been placed in a small box of crystals at the base of a statue of St. Christopher.
7) Holy Grail. Who hasn’t searched for this?
8) Relics of Joan of Arc. “There was also a sword that belonged to Joan and was kept by the descendants of her brother Pierre until it was lost during the chaos of the revolutionary period in France.” This intrigued me.
Joan of Arc was a peasant and at the age of 19 rose to be a leader of French forces in 1431. Many of us are familiar with her story, but I never gave any consideration to what became of her belongings until I read this article and dug deeper.
“[The standard] remained [in the cathedral of Orleans] for three hundred and sixty years, and then was destroyed in a public bonfire, together with two swords, a plumed cap, several suits of state apparel, and other relics of the Maid, by a mob in the time of the Revolution. Nothing which the hand of Joan of Arc is known to have touched remains in existence except a few preciously guarded military and state papers which she signed, her pen being guided by her clerk or her secretary…a boulder exists from which she is known to have mounted her horse when she was once setting out upon a campaign. Up to a quarter of a century ago [c.1860] there was a single hair from her head still in existence. It was drawn through the wax of a seal attached to the parchment of a state document. It was surreptitiously snipped out, seal and all, by some vandal relic-hunter and carried off. Doubtless it still exists, but only the thief knows where” (Mark Twain, Joan of Arc (Ignatius Press: San Francisco, 1988), pp. 314-315).
http://unamsanctamcatholicam.blogspot...
Other research indicated that during the Revolution, a sword and ring in the possession of Pierre’s descendants disappeared, but her letters survived.
This had me questioning how many swords were owned by The Maid of Orléans, and sent me down a rabbit hole of seeking out information on these swords.
According to some articles I read, one sword she’d captured from a Burgundian during a battle, one was given to her in Vaucouleurs by Sir Robert de Baudricourt, and the third, found buried behind the altar in the chapel of Saint Catherine.
While there is nothing unusual about how she came about the first two swords, it is the third that holds the most interest.
The story is that after she received her armor and horse, Joan was offered a sword, which she refused. It is said that voices instructed Joan where her sword would be found. After it was unearthed in Saint Catherine, the priest set to clean it, but the rust fell away. There are many legends about the sword. Some say that it belonged to Charles Martel, grandfather of Charlemagne, and it was secretly buried for the next person whom God would choose to find it and save France.
She did not carry this sword into battle but wore it only for ceremony until after she left St. Denis after the attack on Paris. Some report that she also used the sword when she chased down prostitutes and camp followers, swatting them with it. Some say that it was broken during such an incident, which was upsetting to everyone, and some considered it a bad omen.
By the way, if you are keeping count – we are now up to 4 swords
2 swords destroyed during the Revolution
1 sword disappeared from Pierre’s descendants
1 sword broken on a trollop’s back
Nobody knows for certain if it was the St. Catherine sword that was broken, however, and from what I found, she never said. In fact, when questioned during her trial, Joan stated, “to tell what became of my other sword does not concern this case, and I will not answer about it now. My brothers have all my goods – my horses, my sword, so far as I know, and the rest, which are worth more than twelve thousand crowns’.”
While she wouldn’t say what became of the sword, she also answered that her brother had all her goods, including her sword. So, did she answer and not answer?
I’m certain there are other stories and rumors involving her swords, but the above is what my characters chose to believe. Given that one disappeared during the French Revolution (1789-1799) and Lord Maxwell’s Quest takes place in 1815, I decided that my characters would believe it possible that the sword had been found and made it’s way to England. Thus, the quest was on.
Lord Maxwell’s Quest will be made available on all sites 8/24/21. https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
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COMING 8/24/21
“It’s a pleasure to see you again, Miss Fairview.” His tone cool and polite.
He was still angry. “But we both know that it is not,” she smiled at him.
“Yes well, it’s best not to deceive oneself,” Maxwell muttered and strode toward the sideboard and poured a glass of brandy. “Did you make good on your promise and deliver the scroll you stole from me to the Vatican.”
She gasped. “I did not steal from you, Lord Maxwell. I simply found it before you had a chance to do so. And yes, I delivered it to the good Father.”
Maxwell snorted. “Stole,” he muttered under his breath.
Rosemary had found it first, as he well knew, so why was he grumbling about her stealing?
Except, Max didn’t really mean him. He was angry that she had taken the scroll from Jerusalem. However, she had more faith in the priests at the Vatican than he did, and as soon as the translation was provided, she’d return the scroll to Palestine and deliver it to the rightful owner. It was that simple.
Max returned to her side, now holding a glass of brandy, and stared down at her. Rosemary’s breath hitched as she looked up into his blue eyes.
Blast, she shouldn’t react to him at all, but she did. He was both aggravating and handsome and it irritated her that she was affected by his presence at all. It was an attraction she was almost able to set aside when seeking and finding antiquities, but in settings such as this, taking tea, she became all too aware of how much she desired him, and had for several years. This was also the very setting when she’d first met him. She’d only been a girl of thirteen, but infatuation for the rogue had taken root and remained a constant companion.
She’d also never let him know that he had any effect on her whatsoever.
“A word, Miss Fairview,” Max ground out.
Rosemary blew out a sigh and set her tea aside before she followed him out onto the terrace.
“Why did you just lie to everyone and accuse me of theft?” she demanded.
“Because I couldn’t tell them the true reason why I’m angry because it would put your reputation in jeopardy.”
Rosemary blinked at him. “Reputation?”
He hitched a brow.
“Oh, you mean that I snuck out of your chamber, with the scroll, after spending the night with you and without so much as a by your leave?” She grinned. “Like a lover sneaking away after a night of passion?”
He quickly glanced around. “Please lower your voice before someone thinks we are lovers.”
It stung that he’d be embarrassed or ashamed if someone thought he’d been with her. Or it could be because he was respectable. Sometimes Max was more prudish than the few matrons she’d met in Society.
“That is exactly to what I’m referring. Your disappearance that is,” he added.
“I left you a note,” Rosemary reminded him.
https://books2read.com/u/bzdpV9
Meet Lord Maxwell Trent
Coming 8/24/21
Lord Maxwell Trent - A scholar, antiquarian, traveler, archeologist—A Regency Era relic hunter.
He is the second son of Lord Jonas Trent, Marquess Hopkins and Heloise Billaud, and carries the unofficial title of the spare. Max is quite happy with the order of his birth and never wanted to be the heir, as he knew before he was ever out of short pants that he did not want to have the title nor the responsibility of being the next marquess. And, if we are being completely honest, he breathed a sigh of relief when his brother, Tristan (The Forgotten Marquess ~ The “Other” Trents) was blessed with an heir of his own. Max also secretly hopes that Tristan will have more sons, pushing him further away from the title.
Following Maxwell’s arrival in this world came his twin brother, Gideon (Kissing the Lass ~ Scot to the Heart Series). Perhaps the order of their birth was a sign of their future. While Gideon is more settled and enjoys staying in England, and penning novels, it was Maxwell who wished to venture out into the world.
Max is a lover of history but assumed that his future was that of a fellow at Oxford or Harvard, teaching what he loved most. His father, however, hoped that Max and Gideon would follow in his footsteps and work in the Home Office, spying on France on behalf of England. The twins did attempt to do so. However, Gideon was soon captured by the French, which led to the need to rescue him, and both determining that neither were suited for the life of espionage.
Two life changing decisions occurred during this time. The first, their younger sister, Sophia*, secretly traveled to France because she did want to be a spy too. There, she met a spy of her own, fell in love, married, and moved to Italy.
The second decision was the one that Max made. He didn’t want to return to England to study antiquities found by others, and only read about history in the pages of a book. He wanted his own adventures and to make his own discoveries and set out on a journey that took him to excavations in Pompeii, Greece, Egypt, just to name a few, and has sought missing antiquities on his own. Max soon earned a reputation for locating and retrieving that which had been stolen and returning it to the rightful owner, and for following rumors of relics discovered by others. At one time he’d given found religious antiquities to the Vatican but halted that practice after a short time as he believed that any antiquity discovered should remain within the country in which it was found as they were the rightful owner.
Though others have often sought the same relic as he, only one has ever been a thorn in his side—Miss Rosemary Fairview, who also happens to be one of his sisters’ dearest friends.
https://books2read.com/u/bQZ7D3
Read
December 7, 2021I really enjoyed 'Lord Maxwell's Quest' by Jane Charles. I am sorry it took me so long to post it and review it. This was the first Jane Charles novel that I have read, I am thankful for getting a chance to read it through GR's Give Aways. I will be reading more of Jane Charles I am sure, because I am now hooked on the time period as well the main characters, Miss Rosemary Fairview and the flame of her childhood years the older brother of Sofia Trent one of her best friends. She still longs to know him now, years later in a more personal way and for him to want her as much as she does him, but who is Lord Maxwell Trent other than Sofia's brother? At the same time Rosemary is very resentful of his always turning up and treating her like a child and that he can't seem to see her as an adult. He is slightly older than Rosemary, but he is very attracted to her and overly protective of her safety, while she is very independent and wishes it to remain that way. Maxwell keeps his feelings for her on the downside not wanting to appear too forward, which she only sees as him trying to be bossy even a bully at times, even-though he means well she always feels slighted and bruised. Through the years they see less of each-other as they do become adults, but when they do see each other, it seems he reverts back to the way he treated her when they were children and in-turn she reacts the same way she had before, never clearing the air. They are always expressing how they feel about the other to themselves but keep their real feelings tucked away to themselves and suffer for it alone.
But in the meantime, they both have the same interests in searching for fascinating archaeological digs and quests for antiquities, which are quests they look to find lost artifacts for museums or country officials, but this is a dangerous undertaking, with evil people watching every move they make together or separately. Needless to say, this a nail-biting adventure with many exciting and terrifying happenings. You just have to read to get hooked
But in the meantime, they both have the same interests in searching for fascinating archaeological digs and quests for antiquities, which are quests they look to find lost artifacts for museums or country officials, but this is a dangerous undertaking, with evil people watching every move they make together or separately. Needless to say, this a nail-biting adventure with many exciting and terrifying happenings. You just have to read to get hooked
July 20, 2021
I was surprised this held my interest as much as it did. I enjoy mysteries, historical's, and romance but to find one so well planned out was fabulous. You get great detail and action with this book it feels like you right in the think of things.
Miss Rosemary Fairview, a woman of fierce independence and courage. She has enjoyed a life that has allowed her to choose how and where she goes. Even though she has two strong "titans", as she calls them, for bodyguards. Tis being a compromise with her father. She enjoys the hunt and finding of antiquities. Weather she is being paid to retrieve them or heard about one. When on the hunt for one she has heard about she always wants to be her childhood infatuation nemesis Lord Maxwell Trent. Brother to her school friend and antagonist, she will show him what she found and vise a versa.
Lord Maxwell Trent, knew that he was not cut of for society, the church, or being a spy (though he tried once). He had wanderlust in his veins. Rosemary was his sister's friend and a nuisance to him, until he has seen her working an excavation site. Now he has dreamed about her from afar only. He enjoys the way they argue, hunt for reliques as a competition, but long to take it further. While he is near, he watches her back to protect her as much as he can.
Now on the hunt as partners for the possibility of receiving a list sword of Joan of Arc, they are being pursued by bad, dangerous, violent men. By day the check and follow leads. By night they hide from henchmen out to harm them. Little do they know a more devious, demented man is wanting them kidnapped for a quest he wants at any cost. Even their lives could be at stake.
Will they find the sword first and will it be what they hope? Will they survive or wounded or worse, due trying to find the sword first. Will this madman get them and what is this quest he wants.
These and many more await you in The race through rookeries, pawn shops, and the back streets, allies, and taverns of the less fashionable parties of London. Great characters, world building, and imagery abound in the fascinating tale.
Miss Rosemary Fairview, a woman of fierce independence and courage. She has enjoyed a life that has allowed her to choose how and where she goes. Even though she has two strong "titans", as she calls them, for bodyguards. Tis being a compromise with her father. She enjoys the hunt and finding of antiquities. Weather she is being paid to retrieve them or heard about one. When on the hunt for one she has heard about she always wants to be her childhood infatuation nemesis Lord Maxwell Trent. Brother to her school friend and antagonist, she will show him what she found and vise a versa.
Lord Maxwell Trent, knew that he was not cut of for society, the church, or being a spy (though he tried once). He had wanderlust in his veins. Rosemary was his sister's friend and a nuisance to him, until he has seen her working an excavation site. Now he has dreamed about her from afar only. He enjoys the way they argue, hunt for reliques as a competition, but long to take it further. While he is near, he watches her back to protect her as much as he can.
Now on the hunt as partners for the possibility of receiving a list sword of Joan of Arc, they are being pursued by bad, dangerous, violent men. By day the check and follow leads. By night they hide from henchmen out to harm them. Little do they know a more devious, demented man is wanting them kidnapped for a quest he wants at any cost. Even their lives could be at stake.
Will they find the sword first and will it be what they hope? Will they survive or wounded or worse, due trying to find the sword first. Will this madman get them and what is this quest he wants.
These and many more await you in The race through rookeries, pawn shops, and the back streets, allies, and taverns of the less fashionable parties of London. Great characters, world building, and imagery abound in the fascinating tale.
August 2, 2021
Max and Rosemary both had adventurous personalities, and they were often in competition to find ancient artifacts. Since they had known each other for quite a while, they had many occasions to compare notes on their adventures, exchange witty banter, and try to outsmart the other in their search for the next artifact. When a mutual friend engages them both to find the missing sword of Joan of Arc, the search is on.
They both turn to the rookeries of London (basically the most corrupt slums) where anything can be bought or sold for a price. It soon becomes apparent that they are going to have to work together if they want to find the sword and make it out of this adventure alive.
This is a fun, fast-paced story with lots of action and an interesting look at the seamy side of London. There is a lot of humor as the two banter back and forth and get into some sticky situations. Of course, they develop feelings for one another as the story unfolds. We also get to see several characters from some of the author's previous books in the Trents and Wiggons School series. I really enjoyed this story.
They both turn to the rookeries of London (basically the most corrupt slums) where anything can be bought or sold for a price. It soon becomes apparent that they are going to have to work together if they want to find the sword and make it out of this adventure alive.
This is a fun, fast-paced story with lots of action and an interesting look at the seamy side of London. There is a lot of humor as the two banter back and forth and get into some sticky situations. Of course, they develop feelings for one another as the story unfolds. We also get to see several characters from some of the author's previous books in the Trents and Wiggons School series. I really enjoyed this story.
July 29, 2021
Lord Maxwell Trent is a second son of a marquess & his wanderlust & love of history took him to many foreign countries in search of antiquities - now he is in London in search of a sword claiming to belong to Joan of Arc. Rosemary Fairview is his friend's younger sister who was a pest in her younger years but has grown to a desirable young woman who also hunts for antiquities, usually the same one he is looking to find.
Miss Rosemary Fairview is brave, independent, curious, & has grown up with parents that were & are still "travel mad". She has been to many places & it only intensified her love of the search, whether paid or not, for a new artifact. She also has had a love for her brother's friend, Max, since she met him at thirteen & he was sixteen, but he doesn't even notice her.
They both are contacted to come to London to search for a sword & they cannot be in the same room with each other without arguing & now they are going to have to work together. Neither one will admit their feelings for each other as they are sure their romantic feelings are not returned. This has a great mystery, an action-packed search for the sword with villains galore but most of all, their romance is such a fun, a little spicy & exciting adventure to their HEA. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Miss Rosemary Fairview is brave, independent, curious, & has grown up with parents that were & are still "travel mad". She has been to many places & it only intensified her love of the search, whether paid or not, for a new artifact. She also has had a love for her brother's friend, Max, since she met him at thirteen & he was sixteen, but he doesn't even notice her.
They both are contacted to come to London to search for a sword & they cannot be in the same room with each other without arguing & now they are going to have to work together. Neither one will admit their feelings for each other as they are sure their romantic feelings are not returned. This has a great mystery, an action-packed search for the sword with villains galore but most of all, their romance is such a fun, a little spicy & exciting adventure to their HEA. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
September 1, 2021
England, 1815
They were both on a mission to find the relic, a sword, only he did not want her to know. It seemed they always ended up in the same place regardless!
An adventure fraught with danger, intrigue and a journey that brings romance and an attraction that cannot be denied!
Wonderful characters that have to build trust and work together, with witty dialogue and a great ending! Don't miss this fabulous story!
They were both on a mission to find the relic, a sword, only he did not want her to know. It seemed they always ended up in the same place regardless!
An adventure fraught with danger, intrigue and a journey that brings romance and an attraction that cannot be denied!
Wonderful characters that have to build trust and work together, with witty dialogue and a great ending! Don't miss this fabulous story!
July 20, 2021
Two adventure seeking people finally find love after eight years of dancing around each other. Fun read with the pair chasing around London’s seedier areas, followed by villains.
Not sure that either of them will make very good parents, lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Not sure that either of them will make very good parents, lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 6, 2024
Max- second son same as Rosemary and is in competition with her.
Rosemary- Spinster who loves to travel and find antiques to return to their origin
I enjoyed reading this entertaining story that is well written with charismatic characters. This story read as an Indiana Jones story ( movie), lots adventures, drama, and romance tucked in here and there. Their story has a wonderful and loving HEA!
Rosemary- Spinster who loves to travel and find antiques to return to their origin
I enjoyed reading this entertaining story that is well written with charismatic characters. This story read as an Indiana Jones story ( movie), lots adventures, drama, and romance tucked in here and there. Their story has a wonderful and loving HEA!
August 13, 2021
🗡 Lord Maxwell's Quest 🗡
The "Other" Trents Series #2
✒️ Jane Charles
https://www.facebook.com/JaneCharlesA...
Release Date 08/24/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099DFFLSC/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Lord Maxwell Trent has never remained in one place for long. His fascination for history and quest for antiquities have taken him from Pompeii to Greece to Egypt, and now the search of an ancient sword has brought him to London—and back into Miss Rosemary Fairview’s orbit.
Miss Fairview has always valued her independence. Raised by travel-mad parents and fascinated by her mother’s archaeological journals, she knew that she’d never be content to settle into the dull life of running a household. When word of the lost sword brings Rosemary to London, she finds herself in pursuit of the same relic as her nemesis, Lord Maxwell Trent.
They know it’s impossible the sword once belonged to The Maid of Orléans. But that one sliver of hope, the what-if, propels them on the quest to discover the truth.
Danger stalks them from Mayfair’s drawing rooms to the maze of London’s rookeries. Can they work together to find the sword—and to survive? And will they realize that perhaps they shouldn’t have been competitors at all, but something more?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to see past their fears and miscommunications …
Three books in a row I have read about travelers, sure the setting of this one is mostly in England but as both main heroes are always roaming the world, London looks like a foreign city through their eyes.
The book opens on one of their multiple encounters, when Rosamary defies Maxwell once more. It portrays perfectly their unconventional relationship, nemesis in their quest, colleagues in their line of work, friends in their studies.
They chalenge one another to do better, to be faster, but never renege the victory of the other as the chase and competition are what unit them from time to time.
So they believed.
Until they truly have to work together to find a missing mythic sword.
Max search for lost artefacts to return them to their true owners. He was never destined to be a scholar, it is the hunt that speeds up his blood. Yet from the moment, he learned Rosemary was like him scouring the earth, he made himself her knight in a not so shining armor, dusty by the road but still lurking in the shadow in case Rosemary might need a hand. He was forceful in his fear to see her harmed, which conveyed the wrong impression.
Since he keeps his emotions in check but is still afraid of what might befall on her.
Rosemary follows in her parents’ footsteps, she too visits the world, looking for lost precious traces of the past. Max was her dreams’ man for all her life but he never saw her, always pestering her for the dangers she faces, it is only in the chase and the knowledge they find a common peace.
When they stop their bickering and work together, they are good as a team. But they will have to trust one another, something they struggle at more oft than less.
But are they too stubborn to truly acknowledge their feelings, unable to project themselves together in the future, so set they are on their path, even if it follows parallel roads.
This new quest will test their sentiments, chalenge their talent and unravel their secrets as they face a common enemy and maybe fight for their life.
The author offers us a second chance romance of two head-strong and bullheaded persons who were so afraid to loose themselves in the way they nearly let their chance pass, letting miscommunication and misconceptions keep them apart.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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The "Other" Trents Series #2
✒️ Jane Charles
https://www.facebook.com/JaneCharlesA...
Release Date 08/24/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099DFFLSC/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Lord Maxwell Trent has never remained in one place for long. His fascination for history and quest for antiquities have taken him from Pompeii to Greece to Egypt, and now the search of an ancient sword has brought him to London—and back into Miss Rosemary Fairview’s orbit.
Miss Fairview has always valued her independence. Raised by travel-mad parents and fascinated by her mother’s archaeological journals, she knew that she’d never be content to settle into the dull life of running a household. When word of the lost sword brings Rosemary to London, she finds herself in pursuit of the same relic as her nemesis, Lord Maxwell Trent.
They know it’s impossible the sword once belonged to The Maid of Orléans. But that one sliver of hope, the what-if, propels them on the quest to discover the truth.
Danger stalks them from Mayfair’s drawing rooms to the maze of London’s rookeries. Can they work together to find the sword—and to survive? And will they realize that perhaps they shouldn’t have been competitors at all, but something more?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to see past their fears and miscommunications …
Three books in a row I have read about travelers, sure the setting of this one is mostly in England but as both main heroes are always roaming the world, London looks like a foreign city through their eyes.
The book opens on one of their multiple encounters, when Rosamary defies Maxwell once more. It portrays perfectly their unconventional relationship, nemesis in their quest, colleagues in their line of work, friends in their studies.
They chalenge one another to do better, to be faster, but never renege the victory of the other as the chase and competition are what unit them from time to time.
So they believed.
Until they truly have to work together to find a missing mythic sword.
Max search for lost artefacts to return them to their true owners. He was never destined to be a scholar, it is the hunt that speeds up his blood. Yet from the moment, he learned Rosemary was like him scouring the earth, he made himself her knight in a not so shining armor, dusty by the road but still lurking in the shadow in case Rosemary might need a hand. He was forceful in his fear to see her harmed, which conveyed the wrong impression.
Since he keeps his emotions in check but is still afraid of what might befall on her.
Rosemary follows in her parents’ footsteps, she too visits the world, looking for lost precious traces of the past. Max was her dreams’ man for all her life but he never saw her, always pestering her for the dangers she faces, it is only in the chase and the knowledge they find a common peace.
When they stop their bickering and work together, they are good as a team. But they will have to trust one another, something they struggle at more oft than less.
But are they too stubborn to truly acknowledge their feelings, unable to project themselves together in the future, so set they are on their path, even if it follows parallel roads.
This new quest will test their sentiments, chalenge their talent and unravel their secrets as they face a common enemy and maybe fight for their life.
The author offers us a second chance romance of two head-strong and bullheaded persons who were so afraid to loose themselves in the way they nearly let their chance pass, letting miscommunication and misconceptions keep them apart.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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August 27, 2021
Rosemary Fairview has developed a passion for travel and adventure....to be more specific treasure hunting. Lord Maxwell Trent, a second son, loves to travel and hunt for antiquities. The two are forever crossing paths and dodging the evil henchmen of a recluse Otto Fernsby (also a treasure seeker)...While Rosemary and Max's intent on seeking such items are much more honorable than the recluses, the recluse's henchmen (Rylan) sometimes wins...
Rosemary and Max's friend asks the both of them to find a stolen artifact, Joan of Arc's sword. It is rumored to be in London. The two set off separately but realize if they want to defeat Rylan they must work together....Now the adventure begins.
Add in the hilarious characters of Elegant Ladies School...Oh my are these ladies (with speckled pasts) are hilarious. I loved them all and agree Max's color is green...
Jane Charles writes with such detail and the character's conversations give such life to her stories. You feel like you are right in the middle. The banter, comedy, seriousness...it's all there in the story. Such writing makes the book a fast paced and can't put down kind of a story. I am always wanting more. Book two of the "Other" Trent Book will not disappoint.
PS....I think Beatrice would make a great daughter name....
Rosemary and Max's friend asks the both of them to find a stolen artifact, Joan of Arc's sword. It is rumored to be in London. The two set off separately but realize if they want to defeat Rylan they must work together....Now the adventure begins.
Add in the hilarious characters of Elegant Ladies School...Oh my are these ladies (with speckled pasts) are hilarious. I loved them all and agree Max's color is green...
Jane Charles writes with such detail and the character's conversations give such life to her stories. You feel like you are right in the middle. The banter, comedy, seriousness...it's all there in the story. Such writing makes the book a fast paced and can't put down kind of a story. I am always wanting more. Book two of the "Other" Trent Book will not disappoint.
PS....I think Beatrice would make a great daughter name....
August 30, 2021
Jane Charles’ “Lord Maxwell's Quest” is book 2 in “The Other" series. Ms Charles has quickly become a favorite author of mine and this latest swashbuckling adventure is pure excitement on all fronts.
Both Lord Maxwell Trent and Miss Rosemary Fairview love the thrill of the chase as they trot across the globe in search of lost or stolen antiquities.
Rosemary is far too independent to settle for the dull life of a wife. She’s spent a lifetime traveling with her parents and has long since been fascinated with her mother’s archeological journals. Max is ever the dashing gentleman and though they’ve been rivals for ages in their search and recovery of antiquities their attraction to one another is undeniable, except to them for neither will admit to it. When The sword of The Maid of Orleans is rumored to be in London and their dastardly, villainous rival turns up they find they must work together.
I enjoyed the story immensely! With fantastic characters, an intriguing fast paced plot, witty dialogue and humor, sizzling chemistry, romance, a rollicking adventure and search for the sword, dastardly villains and a superb ending, the author renders a wonderful story.
Thank you so much Ms Charles for this delightful adventure and romance. I’d very much like to see more of this couple, perhaps there’s another adventure in the cards for them?
Both Lord Maxwell Trent and Miss Rosemary Fairview love the thrill of the chase as they trot across the globe in search of lost or stolen antiquities.
Rosemary is far too independent to settle for the dull life of a wife. She’s spent a lifetime traveling with her parents and has long since been fascinated with her mother’s archeological journals. Max is ever the dashing gentleman and though they’ve been rivals for ages in their search and recovery of antiquities their attraction to one another is undeniable, except to them for neither will admit to it. When The sword of The Maid of Orleans is rumored to be in London and their dastardly, villainous rival turns up they find they must work together.
I enjoyed the story immensely! With fantastic characters, an intriguing fast paced plot, witty dialogue and humor, sizzling chemistry, romance, a rollicking adventure and search for the sword, dastardly villains and a superb ending, the author renders a wonderful story.
Thank you so much Ms Charles for this delightful adventure and romance. I’d very much like to see more of this couple, perhaps there’s another adventure in the cards for them?
August 24, 2021
This is an interesting story than your usual regency romance. Both Lord Maxwell and Rosemary travel the world hunting for treasure and artifacts. At times, they are in competition for the same item. Unlike most treasure hunters, they find artifacts and return them to the original owners/ countries.
On this quest, they team up to find the possible sword of Joan of Arc. Working together, they are having a hard time ignoring their attraction to each other. Since Rosemary is a friend of his younger sister, they have know each other since she was 13 but now she is a grown woman.
As any good treasure hunt story, there is an evil villian. Rylan and his gang are on their trail. They think he is wanting to steal the sword from them but his goal is even more deadly. He is working for Lord Fornsby who is the real evil one.
Max and Rosemary need to work together to get out of the situation they find themselves in and the danger allows them to finally admit their true feelings. When they find their happily ever after it is worth the wait.
I received an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.
On this quest, they team up to find the possible sword of Joan of Arc. Working together, they are having a hard time ignoring their attraction to each other. Since Rosemary is a friend of his younger sister, they have know each other since she was 13 but now she is a grown woman.
As any good treasure hunt story, there is an evil villian. Rylan and his gang are on their trail. They think he is wanting to steal the sword from them but his goal is even more deadly. He is working for Lord Fornsby who is the real evil one.
Max and Rosemary need to work together to get out of the situation they find themselves in and the danger allows them to finally admit their true feelings. When they find their happily ever after it is worth the wait.
I received an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.
August 24, 2021
Lord Maxwell Trent and Miss Rosemary Fairview have both traveled the world looking for antiquities that have been stolen from their rightful owners. They both compete to see who can find the treasure first. And they bicker so much, you would think they were an old married couple. But beneath that bickering is an emotion even deeper that they both are afraid to admit to each other fearing the other doesn’t feel the same way.
I really enjoyed going on the journey with them to find the lost sword that might/might not have belonged to Joan of Arc. At the end when they finally met up with the culprit, it was a nail biter. I did think though that the bickering between Max and Rosemary was a bit repetitive. Also, the romance was on the lighter side. Only a few kisses. I did enjoy the story and would recommend it to others.
I really enjoyed going on the journey with them to find the lost sword that might/might not have belonged to Joan of Arc. At the end when they finally met up with the culprit, it was a nail biter. I did think though that the bickering between Max and Rosemary was a bit repetitive. Also, the romance was on the lighter side. Only a few kisses. I did enjoy the story and would recommend it to others.
August 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this adventure. Rosemary is so independent and Max knows that she won't want to tie herself to him. Rosemary has loved him for years but knows he doesn't want to be tied to someone like her. They fight all the time when they are together and they compete with each other to see who can get to an antiquity before the other. If they would only realize they were made for each other. When a sword needs to be found, they decide to join forces to find it. But, danger stalks them. Can they find the sword and keep each other safe or will they be killed before they can start a life together?
July 30, 2021
Miss Rosemary Fairview was on a quest for a document in the middle of the night, she needed to find it before Lord Maxwell Trent could find it. They were both in Jerusalem and Maxwell was searching for Rosemary. She found the documents and she found Maxwell. She could not read the document as it was written in either He-brew or Aramaic, she couldn't tell which. They were being followed by a man named Ryan and went to hypo they decided what to do with the document. Ms. Charles has written wonderful little book with a wonderful ro-mance to go with it. You should take the time to read it...
August 23, 2021
I really enjoyed the story of Rosemary and Max. They both knew they were in love with the other, but didn't think they were loved back. Their restraint with each other when in close quarters was funny to watch as well. The descriptions in the book about the places they were at or had been, you could picture it in your mind. Loved that we get a story where the heroine has been traveling as much as the hero, and bests him on most occasions with the antiquities! Thank you for the advanced copy, the story was a pleasure to read!
October 26, 2024
A wonderful adventure!
Another great read that's I couldn't put down! It has everything you want in a book that will take you to a place in the past that makes you envious of the people involved in this exciting story. Thank you Jane.
Another great read that's I couldn't put down! It has everything you want in a book that will take you to a place in the past that makes you envious of the people involved in this exciting story. Thank you Jane.
August 24, 2021
Loved the tension - sexual and otherwise - between the hero and heroine. Good intrigue, and a good mystery to solve. I received an ARC of this book.
August 24, 2021
Lord Maxwell's Quest is an adventurous and exciting romance. A wonderful mix of adventure and action with plenty of romance between. Max and Rosemary are strong and independent characters and find they are quite rightly and perfectly made for each other. Their journey is engaging all the way and well crafted by Jane Charles.
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