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The Duke of Strathmore #5
Meine Liebe, der Gentleman und Spion
Die Welt des ehemaligen Spions William Saunders steht Kopf, als er eines harmlosen Tages die Missionarin Hattie Wright aus dem tiefblauen Wasser vor der Küste Gibraltars zieht.
Die Umstände verschwören sich gegen sie, und sie sehen sich gezwungen, auf der Schiffsreise zurück nach London eine beengte Kabine zu teilen, wo Verlangen und Leidenschaft unvermeidlich zwischen ihnen aufflammen. Harriet sieht die Zeit mit Will als eine kurze Affäre, bevor sie sich wieder ihrer Arbeit mit den Armen und Benachteiligten in den Slums von London widmen wird.
Will allerdings hält es für eine Frage der Ehre, ihr die Ehe anzutragen und sie zurückzuführen in ein Leben von Wohlstand und Privilegien, wie sie es einst kannte. Obwohl ihr Herz ihm nur zu gern gehören möchte, ist Hattie fest entschlossen, mit ihrer wichtigen Arbeit fortzufahren. Sie lehnt seinen Antrag ab.
Doch im Zuge dieser Arbeit macht Hattie sich mächtige Feinde in den kriminellen Banden, die in den Armenvierteln das Sagen haben, und es gibt jene, die ihren Tod wünschen. Als Hattie entführt wird, muss Will sich schließlich seiner eigenen Vergangenheit stellen, um die Frau retten zu können, die er liebt.
Die Umstände verschwören sich gegen sie, und sie sehen sich gezwungen, auf der Schiffsreise zurück nach London eine beengte Kabine zu teilen, wo Verlangen und Leidenschaft unvermeidlich zwischen ihnen aufflammen. Harriet sieht die Zeit mit Will als eine kurze Affäre, bevor sie sich wieder ihrer Arbeit mit den Armen und Benachteiligten in den Slums von London widmen wird.
Will allerdings hält es für eine Frage der Ehre, ihr die Ehe anzutragen und sie zurückzuführen in ein Leben von Wohlstand und Privilegien, wie sie es einst kannte. Obwohl ihr Herz ihm nur zu gern gehören möchte, ist Hattie fest entschlossen, mit ihrer wichtigen Arbeit fortzufahren. Sie lehnt seinen Antrag ab.
Doch im Zuge dieser Arbeit macht Hattie sich mächtige Feinde in den kriminellen Banden, die in den Armenvierteln das Sagen haben, und es gibt jene, die ihren Tod wünschen. Als Hattie entführt wird, muss Will sich schließlich seiner eigenen Vergangenheit stellen, um die Frau retten zu können, die er liebt.
332 pages, Paperback
First published January 8, 2018
153 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Sasha Cottman
49 books248 followersBorn in England, but raised in Australia, Sasha has a love for both countries. Having her heart in two places has created a love for travel, which at last count was to over 55 countries. A travel guide is always on her pile of new books to read.
Sasha lives with her husband, her university student daughter and a cat who demands a starring role in the next book. She has found new hiding spots for her secret chocolate stash.
Sasha lives with her husband, her university student daughter and a cat who demands a starring role in the next book. She has found new hiding spots for her secret chocolate stash.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 23, 2018
Series: The Duke of Strathmore #5
Publication Date: 2/1/18
Gibraltar 1817 - ‘Hattie Wright sucked in a deep breath before slowly letting the air back out. The long drop over the side of the ship to the water below was a heart-rending distance.’ Thus begins our adventure in this well written and well-plotted novel. This is the first time I’ve read anything by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. While this book is part of a series, I felt it could easily be read as a stand-alone. I liked that almost the entire cast of characters were non-titled.
Up until a couple of years ago, Hattie led a happy, privileged life with loving parents and a caring, supportive brother. Then her parents had a religious conversion to a much more zealous sect of the church. They also seemed to be deeply under the influence of Reverend Peter Brown. Their zealotry caused a rift with Hattie’s brother and they became totally estranged. To make matters even worse, they betrothed Hattie to Reverend Brown. Her parents renounced everything and they were all headed – against Hattie’s will – to be missionaries in Africa. Hattie knew she had to escape and the only way she could see to do it was to jump overboard while the ship was near enough to Gibraltar for her to swim to shore. It seems that the normally compliant Hattie had grown a spine.
William Saunders, a former spy for the crown, is a lonely widower on his way home to England. He longed to return to England and his large, loving, supportive family, but he knew he was going to miss the warm weather of the continent. He was treating himself to a farewell tour of the now peaceful cities of lower France and Spain before he returned home. Thus, he was sitting on the beach when he noticed a ship far out in the water and – what was that – there was someone, a female, who just went overboard! He had to save her!
Will and Hattie are attracted to each other, but each has secrets – he shares his – she doesn’t. I love that she outmaneuvers him at every turn. The vaunted spy outdone by the amateur – that is good. Once they reach England, she manages to outsmart him and escape. He has to find her and make her his wife – can he? Will she have him? What made her so desperate to run away from him? What is she hiding? What danger does she face? All questions that can be answered when you read the book. So happy reading!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 2/1/18
Gibraltar 1817 - ‘Hattie Wright sucked in a deep breath before slowly letting the air back out. The long drop over the side of the ship to the water below was a heart-rending distance.’ Thus begins our adventure in this well written and well-plotted novel. This is the first time I’ve read anything by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. While this book is part of a series, I felt it could easily be read as a stand-alone. I liked that almost the entire cast of characters were non-titled.
Up until a couple of years ago, Hattie led a happy, privileged life with loving parents and a caring, supportive brother. Then her parents had a religious conversion to a much more zealous sect of the church. They also seemed to be deeply under the influence of Reverend Peter Brown. Their zealotry caused a rift with Hattie’s brother and they became totally estranged. To make matters even worse, they betrothed Hattie to Reverend Brown. Her parents renounced everything and they were all headed – against Hattie’s will – to be missionaries in Africa. Hattie knew she had to escape and the only way she could see to do it was to jump overboard while the ship was near enough to Gibraltar for her to swim to shore. It seems that the normally compliant Hattie had grown a spine.
William Saunders, a former spy for the crown, is a lonely widower on his way home to England. He longed to return to England and his large, loving, supportive family, but he knew he was going to miss the warm weather of the continent. He was treating himself to a farewell tour of the now peaceful cities of lower France and Spain before he returned home. Thus, he was sitting on the beach when he noticed a ship far out in the water and – what was that – there was someone, a female, who just went overboard! He had to save her!
Will and Hattie are attracted to each other, but each has secrets – he shares his – she doesn’t. I love that she outmaneuvers him at every turn. The vaunted spy outdone by the amateur – that is good. Once they reach England, she manages to outsmart him and escape. He has to find her and make her his wife – can he? Will she have him? What made her so desperate to run away from him? What is she hiding? What danger does she face? All questions that can be answered when you read the book. So happy reading!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
February 12, 2018
My Gentleman Spy by Sasha Cottman is the Fifth book in "The Duke of Strathmore". This is the story of William Saunders and Hattie Wright. I haven't yet read the previous book so for me this was easily a standalone book.
Will has been a undercover operative for His Majesty government but now has moved past that to work his way home to London and be reacquainted with the town.
Hattie is with her parents and Reverend Peter Brown is now her future husband. They are all going through West coast of Africa to their destination of Serra Leone to be missionaries bring the word of God. But Hattie gets cold feet and doesn't want to leave London, her friends or her work there. So she jumps ship and tries to swim to shore. Will sees Hattie jump and goes to help her in the water. This leads him to help her work her way back to London.
Will wife Yvette died about 4 years ago and it has left him alone and feeling guilty but now he is starting to have feelings for Hattie. Hattie feelings for Will are growing but they are so different can they work to have their happy ending.
Really enjoyed their story!
Will has been a undercover operative for His Majesty government but now has moved past that to work his way home to London and be reacquainted with the town.
Hattie is with her parents and Reverend Peter Brown is now her future husband. They are all going through West coast of Africa to their destination of Serra Leone to be missionaries bring the word of God. But Hattie gets cold feet and doesn't want to leave London, her friends or her work there. So she jumps ship and tries to swim to shore. Will sees Hattie jump and goes to help her in the water. This leads him to help her work her way back to London.
Will wife Yvette died about 4 years ago and it has left him alone and feeling guilty but now he is starting to have feelings for Hattie. Hattie feelings for Will are growing but they are so different can they work to have their happy ending.
Really enjoyed their story!
August 8, 2018
A Regency with a Side Trip to Gibraltar
An unusual Regency romance that begins in an exotic locale and then takes you back to London.
Set in 1817, beginning in Gibraltar, this is the story of Hattie Wright, the daughter of missionaries who sail to Africa with Hattie and a fiancé forced upon her. Hattie rebels and jumps ship. Swimming to Gibraltar, she is rescued by William Saunders, a British former spy, who is headed home to England.
Sharing a small cabin on the ship back to London, Hattie gives herself to the man she’s just met, not because she’s in love but because she wants to experience pleasurable lovemaking (her fiancé was cold) before returning to her work among the poor in London. Meanwhile, Will, offers her marriage. She refuses because she doesn’t trust him to allow her to work in the rookeries.
Both Hattie and Will have issues with their past they must overcome. She leads him on a merry chase but he will catch her in the end. Some interesting developments and a gang of thugs add danger and excitement to the story.
An unusual Regency romance that begins in an exotic locale and then takes you back to London.
Set in 1817, beginning in Gibraltar, this is the story of Hattie Wright, the daughter of missionaries who sail to Africa with Hattie and a fiancé forced upon her. Hattie rebels and jumps ship. Swimming to Gibraltar, she is rescued by William Saunders, a British former spy, who is headed home to England.
Sharing a small cabin on the ship back to London, Hattie gives herself to the man she’s just met, not because she’s in love but because she wants to experience pleasurable lovemaking (her fiancé was cold) before returning to her work among the poor in London. Meanwhile, Will, offers her marriage. She refuses because she doesn’t trust him to allow her to work in the rookeries.
Both Hattie and Will have issues with their past they must overcome. She leads him on a merry chase but he will catch her in the end. Some interesting developments and a gang of thugs add danger and excitement to the story.
February 18, 2019
She’s Untrustworthy
I have enjoyed several of this author’s books, but this one was very disappointing. I’m still trying to figure out why the hero fell in love with the heroine. She lies and deceives him at every turn. The hero knows this, but we are supposed to believe that he is okay with it. Each time she agrees not to put herself in danger, she does exactly that. I get that she is compelled to help the poor, but this level of willful defiance and ignorance of danger borders on the ridiculous.
The epilogue is a letter from the heroine’s mother, as though even the author knows it would have been almost impossible to write a believable epilogue regarding a “happy ever after” with this couple.
I have enjoyed several of this author’s books, but this one was very disappointing. I’m still trying to figure out why the hero fell in love with the heroine. She lies and deceives him at every turn. The hero knows this, but we are supposed to believe that he is okay with it. Each time she agrees not to put herself in danger, she does exactly that. I get that she is compelled to help the poor, but this level of willful defiance and ignorance of danger borders on the ridiculous.
The epilogue is a letter from the heroine’s mother, as though even the author knows it would have been almost impossible to write a believable epilogue regarding a “happy ever after” with this couple.
February 19, 2018
From the very first page Sasha Cottman captured my attention and it never waivered until “the end”.
Hattie Wright is determined to take charge of her life and definitely makes a splash in doing so. In her struggle to survive she is rescued by a gentleman that she soon comes to have feelings for; however, in fear of being sent back to the life she is escaping she’s not willing to give details of her life. A voyage to the empty home she was forced to leave with her handsome savior as her companion awakens feelings she thought she would never be lucky enough to have. Alas, her secrets haunt her and she soon flees leaving him confused and angry. Feeling alone when reality starts to sink in, Hattie digs deep for the strength she needs to survive.
William Saunders is abiding his time until the voyage that will take him home; leaving his former occupation behind and towards the arms of his loving family. Things take an unexpected turn when he witnesses a woman jump into deep waters. Rescuing the damsel soon sets Will’s world spinning as he strives to discover her secrets while keeping his own. Sailing home soon proves to be more than he bargained for. Then his mysterious lady disappears and he’ll do anything to find her.
The search is on with near misses and surprising revelations. Will these two be willing to give up all their secrets for a chance at love?
My Gentleman Spy is the first book I have read of Ms. Cottman’s. It will not be my last.
Hattie Wright is determined to take charge of her life and definitely makes a splash in doing so. In her struggle to survive she is rescued by a gentleman that she soon comes to have feelings for; however, in fear of being sent back to the life she is escaping she’s not willing to give details of her life. A voyage to the empty home she was forced to leave with her handsome savior as her companion awakens feelings she thought she would never be lucky enough to have. Alas, her secrets haunt her and she soon flees leaving him confused and angry. Feeling alone when reality starts to sink in, Hattie digs deep for the strength she needs to survive.
William Saunders is abiding his time until the voyage that will take him home; leaving his former occupation behind and towards the arms of his loving family. Things take an unexpected turn when he witnesses a woman jump into deep waters. Rescuing the damsel soon sets Will’s world spinning as he strives to discover her secrets while keeping his own. Sailing home soon proves to be more than he bargained for. Then his mysterious lady disappears and he’ll do anything to find her.
The search is on with near misses and surprising revelations. Will these two be willing to give up all their secrets for a chance at love?
My Gentleman Spy is the first book I have read of Ms. Cottman’s. It will not be my last.
February 3, 2018
This is a story that is fast paced with lots of action, danger and of course a very sensual romance. Hero William Saunders is heading home from Europe after the war, as a spy he has been through a lot, he is in Gibraltar waiting passage home to England when he sees a woman fall from a ship, and this will turn his world upside down as he rescues Miss Harriet Wright.
Hattie is desperate to get away from her fiancé and the life her parents want for her in Africa and this calls for drastic action, she needs to get off the ship before it gets too far away from land. Yes Hattie is stubborn and strong willed but often doesn’t think about her actions, she is rescued by a very handsome stranger and this will be life changing for her as her feelings grow for Will, there are so many circumstances that seem to push them together.
Will is ever the gentleman and goes out of his way to help Hattie even though he knows that she is keeping things from him but when they are forced to share a cabin on the return trip to England which turns into a very sensual journey home Will being the gentleman he is plans on marrying Hattie oh but she has other plans.
There were times that I could have yelled at Hattie she has the most caring handsome hero wanting her but Hattie wants to help the poor she is over being told what she should and should not do and with Will being so protective their personalities clash but that sensual pull never leaves. There are a lot from both of their pasts that needs to be bought out in the open. However when the gangs from the rookeries come after Hattie Will is there to save her and they come to together with so much love. I loved Will what a hero and Hattie is sure to keep him on his toes. This is a story that I highly recommend it had me turning the pages and smiling thank you MS Cottman for a fabulous story.
Hattie is desperate to get away from her fiancé and the life her parents want for her in Africa and this calls for drastic action, she needs to get off the ship before it gets too far away from land. Yes Hattie is stubborn and strong willed but often doesn’t think about her actions, she is rescued by a very handsome stranger and this will be life changing for her as her feelings grow for Will, there are so many circumstances that seem to push them together.
Will is ever the gentleman and goes out of his way to help Hattie even though he knows that she is keeping things from him but when they are forced to share a cabin on the return trip to England which turns into a very sensual journey home Will being the gentleman he is plans on marrying Hattie oh but she has other plans.
There were times that I could have yelled at Hattie she has the most caring handsome hero wanting her but Hattie wants to help the poor she is over being told what she should and should not do and with Will being so protective their personalities clash but that sensual pull never leaves. There are a lot from both of their pasts that needs to be bought out in the open. However when the gangs from the rookeries come after Hattie Will is there to save her and they come to together with so much love. I loved Will what a hero and Hattie is sure to keep him on his toes. This is a story that I highly recommend it had me turning the pages and smiling thank you MS Cottman for a fabulous story.
July 29, 2024
This is only my 9th book my Sasha Cottman. I just started reading her the beginning of this year. I am really enjoying this series. I noticed the first couple books the beginning chapters were a bit slow but really picked up in the middle and then has such great finishes. Probably me just learning how she writes. I hate she isn't KU but I was able to snag this book on Kindle double points day :) It’s funny now that I am reading more of her books back to back, at least in this series, her characters talk out loud to themselves. Usually those thoughts are written as inner monologue. Just something funny I noticed.
I enjoyed reading about William and Hattie. William intrigued me after reading Lucy and Avery's story. I liked the drama with the gang members. They caused some heavy scenes. Overall a good read.
I enjoyed reading about William and Hattie. William intrigued me after reading Lucy and Avery's story. I liked the drama with the gang members. They caused some heavy scenes. Overall a good read.
June 4, 2018
I enjoyed this story. I found it to be entertaining and full of dramatic action. The hero is extremely likable and the heroine a good mix of bravery and insecurity as most of us are!
February 5, 2018
I was hooked when I read the blurb for this story. Secret agents, danger, and passion in a historical romance! What could be better? I’m a sucker for passion and adventure and this book had it in spades.
It seemed Hattie Wright’s life was planned out for her. After her parents experienced a sudden conversion to a puritan sect of the church, Hattie found herself in Spain on a boat bound for mission work in Africa along with her parents and her newly acquired fiancé, Peter. A dour fiancé not of her choosing but one her parents had selected for her. While Hattie was passionate about her missionary work in St. Giles, was a life in Africa what she truly wanted? A life away from her friends? A life married to a man who thought women should be obedient and know their place in the world? A life of duty with no laughter or happiness? Hattie contemplated all these things. And then jumped from the ship into the sea below.
William Saunders had lived the last 5 years working as an undercover operative for His Majesty’s government. He’d enjoyed the thrill of danger. But after the death of his wife, 3 years earlier, he was planning to return home to London and re-establish himself within the haute ton. But his plans took an unexpected turn when he spied a woman jumping into the sea.
After her escape, Hattie was breathless. And not just from the exertion of her swim to shore. Her rescuer was the handsomest man she’d ever seen. His kindness and warmth made her want to reveal her story to him, but instinct cautioned her to keep as much about herself hidden as she could. Will found Hattie to be a conundrum. He suspected she was holding back the truth about her circumstances. “He wanted to know all he could about her. A woman possessed of the courage to leap over the side of a ship into a dangerous and unknown future, was a woman he needed to understand.” Not to mention he found her lovely. She was the first girl to stir his longing since his wife died.
As Hattie was thousands of miles from home with no money or possessions, she accepted Will’s offer to aid her in returning home to London. And so Hattie and Will spent the next two weeks sailing for home. With only one cabin available, they were forced to share quarters. As time passed aboard ship, Hattie and Will grew fonder of each other. Hattie liked Will’s friendly and relaxed demeanor and he liked her strong will and cleverness. He hadn’t realized how lonely his life had been. They grew accustomed to sleeping in each other’s arms. And of course, the desire for more built in both of them. With Will, Hattie felt the passion she’d longed for. But as much as she loved spending each night in his arms, he was born and bred for the life of the ton. A world she’d left behind. Her work with the poor in St. Giles meant everything to her and no gentleman would allow his wife to walk the streets of St. Giles, ministering to the poor. Once they arrived in London, she needed to disappear. Will would forget her but she’d never forget the first man to hold her heart. But, just as Hattie was hiding her true identity, so was Will. He’d spent his career tracking down those who didn’t want to be found. And if Hattie thought she’d slip through his fingers, she was mistaken.
Hattie and Will were a perfect pair. Both were so clever and resourceful. I think Will was surprised at how resourceful Hattie could be. She outwitted him frequently and “she could turn on an acting display worthy of the stage when it suited her”. At times, she exasperated him. He wanted to throttle her and kiss her at the same time. Her need to risk her safety by caring for the poor worried him. Though she did face danger, Hattie thought Will’s overprotectiveness was his desire to control her. She didn’t know about the life he’d led before and how the death of his wife affected him. They had to learn the wisdom of compromise and I loved watching them learn that lesson. It was fun to guess who would win each battle.
I was most impressed with the historical detail and accuracy of this story. Ms. Cottman deftly combines accurate historical detail with a wonderful love story. She embraces the cultural period. I especially loved the detail during Hattie and Will’s time in Spain. Her descriptions of the landscape and culture truly enhanced the story.
Sometimes trying a new author is a real gamble. But, like Hattie, I took a leap. And I’m so glad I did. I’m anxious to see what’s next in this story.
It seemed Hattie Wright’s life was planned out for her. After her parents experienced a sudden conversion to a puritan sect of the church, Hattie found herself in Spain on a boat bound for mission work in Africa along with her parents and her newly acquired fiancé, Peter. A dour fiancé not of her choosing but one her parents had selected for her. While Hattie was passionate about her missionary work in St. Giles, was a life in Africa what she truly wanted? A life away from her friends? A life married to a man who thought women should be obedient and know their place in the world? A life of duty with no laughter or happiness? Hattie contemplated all these things. And then jumped from the ship into the sea below.
William Saunders had lived the last 5 years working as an undercover operative for His Majesty’s government. He’d enjoyed the thrill of danger. But after the death of his wife, 3 years earlier, he was planning to return home to London and re-establish himself within the haute ton. But his plans took an unexpected turn when he spied a woman jumping into the sea.
After her escape, Hattie was breathless. And not just from the exertion of her swim to shore. Her rescuer was the handsomest man she’d ever seen. His kindness and warmth made her want to reveal her story to him, but instinct cautioned her to keep as much about herself hidden as she could. Will found Hattie to be a conundrum. He suspected she was holding back the truth about her circumstances. “He wanted to know all he could about her. A woman possessed of the courage to leap over the side of a ship into a dangerous and unknown future, was a woman he needed to understand.” Not to mention he found her lovely. She was the first girl to stir his longing since his wife died.
As Hattie was thousands of miles from home with no money or possessions, she accepted Will’s offer to aid her in returning home to London. And so Hattie and Will spent the next two weeks sailing for home. With only one cabin available, they were forced to share quarters. As time passed aboard ship, Hattie and Will grew fonder of each other. Hattie liked Will’s friendly and relaxed demeanor and he liked her strong will and cleverness. He hadn’t realized how lonely his life had been. They grew accustomed to sleeping in each other’s arms. And of course, the desire for more built in both of them. With Will, Hattie felt the passion she’d longed for. But as much as she loved spending each night in his arms, he was born and bred for the life of the ton. A world she’d left behind. Her work with the poor in St. Giles meant everything to her and no gentleman would allow his wife to walk the streets of St. Giles, ministering to the poor. Once they arrived in London, she needed to disappear. Will would forget her but she’d never forget the first man to hold her heart. But, just as Hattie was hiding her true identity, so was Will. He’d spent his career tracking down those who didn’t want to be found. And if Hattie thought she’d slip through his fingers, she was mistaken.
Hattie and Will were a perfect pair. Both were so clever and resourceful. I think Will was surprised at how resourceful Hattie could be. She outwitted him frequently and “she could turn on an acting display worthy of the stage when it suited her”. At times, she exasperated him. He wanted to throttle her and kiss her at the same time. Her need to risk her safety by caring for the poor worried him. Though she did face danger, Hattie thought Will’s overprotectiveness was his desire to control her. She didn’t know about the life he’d led before and how the death of his wife affected him. They had to learn the wisdom of compromise and I loved watching them learn that lesson. It was fun to guess who would win each battle.
I was most impressed with the historical detail and accuracy of this story. Ms. Cottman deftly combines accurate historical detail with a wonderful love story. She embraces the cultural period. I especially loved the detail during Hattie and Will’s time in Spain. Her descriptions of the landscape and culture truly enhanced the story.
Sometimes trying a new author is a real gamble. But, like Hattie, I took a leap. And I’m so glad I did. I’m anxious to see what’s next in this story.
February 9, 2018
***I voluntarily reviewed this book which I received from the author in exchange for a true and honest review.***
Hattie Wright was young woman who was tired of things being decided for herself. So when you she took a leap of faith (literally) her life changed directions completely. She was woman who wanted to make a difference but without the support of family and friends, things looked very bleak. She wanted to have control over her destiny and she honestly felt most men of the ton would not understand her desire to help those less fortunate.
William Saunders could not believe his eyes when he saw a young woman take a leap of faith. Will did not know how empty his life was until he met Hattie. He just had to get her to trust him enough to know that life together was possible. Will realized with Hattie he was going have to let her be who she was and he had to be okay with that.
I like how the story developed with backstory of why Hattie was so stubborn to have her own way. As well as, understanding the backstory of why Will was protective. In the end, love wins. The author did a wonderful job of going from scene to scene with the mystery of their previous lives. I look forward to reading about Eve and Freddie’s story.
April 15, 2018
I'm a huge fan of historicals that feature outside-the-box settings and premises and this one succeeded on both counts. I doubt I've ever read a story that begins with the heroine taking the action that Hattie does at the beginning of this wonderful story and it had me hooked straight away.
My Gentleman Spy is romance at it's best; Intelligent, with well-rounded characters and a unique perspective on the era it's set in. I particularly loved Cottman's take on Hattie's family and why she was driven to run away from them. I can say much without giving anything away, but the way the story deals with people of different classes in English society was both fresh and fascinating.
I also enjoyed the cat and mouse game between Will and Hattie that started off almost playful but turned so deliciously suspenseful. I read this book during a train journey in one sitting and I was literally on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what happened next.
This is a definite re-reader and I'd recommend it to anyone who likes their historical romance smart.
My Gentleman Spy is romance at it's best; Intelligent, with well-rounded characters and a unique perspective on the era it's set in. I particularly loved Cottman's take on Hattie's family and why she was driven to run away from them. I can say much without giving anything away, but the way the story deals with people of different classes in English society was both fresh and fascinating.
I also enjoyed the cat and mouse game between Will and Hattie that started off almost playful but turned so deliciously suspenseful. I read this book during a train journey in one sitting and I was literally on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what happened next.
This is a definite re-reader and I'd recommend it to anyone who likes their historical romance smart.
March 16, 2018
Sasha Cottman has yet to disappoint. She writes of love, adventure, heartache and redemption. The hero William Saunders is a spy. He's couregous and loving but gives the appearance of being overprotective at times. The heroine Hattie Wright has always been a dutiful daughter til one day she found her spark. She discovered her self worth, her independence, her strength, and her voice. Ms. Cottman takes the reader on an adventure, starting leaps of faith and an abundance of courage to little twists and turns and ending with compromise and compassion as well as love. Relationships are built and torn apart, families are destroyed and reborn, trust is shattered then put back together. The book is chalk full of emotions and keeps the reader hooked.
When's the next one 😉
When's the next one 😉
November 22, 2020
Oh the disappointment :(
At 42% I had to stop; I couldn’t bear to read another page.
I like William, a lot! He is an intriguing & fascinating character. Yes he’s a man with a secret past, but kind, likeable, and (given his profession) reasonably honest.
Hattie I started off feeling sympathy for, and quite liking her. By the point in which I gave up, I found her utterly self-centred and annoying. I won’t go into detail, in case you read this book, but she treats her ‘saviour’ with an ungracious and selfish disregard for his name, his honour, or his safety.
I did so expect better from the author.
At 42% I had to stop; I couldn’t bear to read another page.
I like William, a lot! He is an intriguing & fascinating character. Yes he’s a man with a secret past, but kind, likeable, and (given his profession) reasonably honest.
Hattie I started off feeling sympathy for, and quite liking her. By the point in which I gave up, I found her utterly self-centred and annoying. I won’t go into detail, in case you read this book, but she treats her ‘saviour’ with an ungracious and selfish disregard for his name, his honour, or his safety.
I did so expect better from the author.
May 27, 2024
This book is in need of a serious copy edit.
Not a ton of proofreading errors, but for the majority of the chapters where the hero, William, is unaware of the heroine’s real name (Hattie) he manages to think of and refer to her using her name anyways, rather than using the false name she’s given him every time. One paragraph William will be thinking of her as “Hattie” and in the next he’ll think of her as “Sarah” again.
Totally breaks immersion in the story for the first third of the book, and makes it feel like the author published a draft. Given that I’m reading the latest edition, this… is disappointing.
Not a ton of proofreading errors, but for the majority of the chapters where the hero, William, is unaware of the heroine’s real name (Hattie) he manages to think of and refer to her using her name anyways, rather than using the false name she’s given him every time. One paragraph William will be thinking of her as “Hattie” and in the next he’ll think of her as “Sarah” again.
Totally breaks immersion in the story for the first third of the book, and makes it feel like the author published a draft. Given that I’m reading the latest edition, this… is disappointing.
August 15, 2019
This is a very good story of Hattie and Will. Hattie is from a. Good family who have turned from Church of England to a more plain church. Her mother and father have decided to go to Africa as missionaries. They arrange a marriage for Hattie to another missionary. Hattie literally jumps off the ship near Gibraltar. Will swims out to rescue her. He provides her passage back to England. He also falls in love with her and she with him. But Hattie is a strong character who will not marry if she cannot continue her work with the poor of St. Giles. Can these two find a way to make things work?
September 28, 2020
My Gentleman Spy is an entertaining, hot period romance about a desperate girl who finds love in the man who rescues her. While Hattie strikes me as a reckless and fool hearty girl who in an effort to help others behaves most selfishly herself, I still found myself entranced by her story and wanting the best for her. Will truly is a wonderful man. I truly enjoy the books in this series, even though I have listened to them out of order.
The narrator is well suited to this audiobook and does a nice job with it.
The narrator is well suited to this audiobook and does a nice job with it.
November 11, 2023
2.75 stars: It was okay. I kept anticipating and hoping it would get good. I very much liked the first two books in the series. The plot had a lot of promise. It kept my attention thinking the book would reach its potential. The female lead in the this book just made bad decision after bad decision. I don't even understand why she agreed to marry the male lead (what finally changed her mind). She lied for good reason, she lied for no reason, she just lied. I did not enjoy this book. I like the author but not this book.
September 27, 2019
Entertaining!
I like this author & have read many of her books! This book is one of my favorites! The plot is well developed and the characters ' personalities are communicated thoroughly making the book an enjoyable read! The historical regency setting only adds to the pleasure! The dialogue and setting description flows naturally throughout the story and doesn't bog down the storyline! Outdoes many other authors of similar books! Highly recommended!
I like this author & have read many of her books! This book is one of my favorites! The plot is well developed and the characters ' personalities are communicated thoroughly making the book an enjoyable read! The historical regency setting only adds to the pleasure! The dialogue and setting description flows naturally throughout the story and doesn't bog down the storyline! Outdoes many other authors of similar books! Highly recommended!
March 2, 2018
I have not read the other books in this series but that did not take away from this book. I thought the story was a little predictable but I did enjoy the cat and mouse back and fourth between the main characters. It was addicting as I finished it in one sitting. Definitely recommend to someone who enjoys romance and comedy.
March 5, 2018
Although this is book number 5, I was able to enjoy it as a stand-alone. If you like a heroine who knows her own mind and a dashing love interest who is commanding at the right times, then I think you will enjoy this historical romance.
I recommend the book, and will be looking forward to reading numbers 1 to 5. 😊
I recommend the book, and will be looking forward to reading numbers 1 to 5. 😊
April 9, 2018
Hattie and Will's story is a page turner from start to finish. It is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. The drama, angst, and romance kept me on the edge of my seat right from the beginning. I fell in love with Will; and Hattie—a determined, strong heroine—won my heart. As secrets unfold it becomes clear these two belong together. Highly recommend this love story.
March 13, 2020
This one was okay.. Both characters for me just didn't seem to connect with each until the end of the book.. And it seemed the story kind of was all over the place in the beginning.. It did get better towards the middle of it though.. Overall a decent story.. Just a struggle at the beginning of the book..
May 24, 2018
Another exciting book
I enjoyed My Gentleman Spy. So far Ms. Coleman's stories have been very entertaining. This one was not my favorite; however, it was still enjoyable. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
I enjoyed My Gentleman Spy. So far Ms. Coleman's stories have been very entertaining. This one was not my favorite; however, it was still enjoyable. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 15, 2022
A romance with travel adventures.
This is a Regency romance without a single ballroom scene! I did find the story progression a bit slow. Lots of travel descriptions and some sexy times.
This is a Regency romance without a single ballroom scene! I did find the story progression a bit slow. Lots of travel descriptions and some sexy times.
February 23, 2018
Loved it! In the process of writing my review, but safe to say it was fabulous!
July 13, 2018
Bloody Brilliant! Wonderful story. I loved it!
5☆
5☆
March 19, 2019
My Gentleman Spy (The Duke of Strathmore Book 5)
A great Regency Romance that you will not want to put down. I tried my best to read it straight through! Enjoy
A great Regency Romance that you will not want to put down. I tried my best to read it straight through! Enjoy
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