The Meadows

by Cynthia Keyes

Lady Katherine is a woman ahead of her time---thumbing her nose at society’s strictures, as an entrepreneur in the fashion industry. In a search for adventure and profit she has Empress Josephine’s designs smuggled into England. But when collecting her prize at the secluded docks, Kate gets more than she bargained for. Tucked into her pattern books is Napoleon’s code key. Unaware of the panoply of pursuers she has triggered, she endures a series of break-ins, muggings and finally an attempt on her life.

The gallant Ambrose St. Claire has been assigned by England’s Home Office to retrieve the codes and monitor Kate. He soon finds himself embroiled in more than surveillance, as his passion for the lady ignites.

Together the two of them embark on a journey of danger and romance which takes them from the streets of London to her cherished country home, The Meadows.

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 16, 2022

Reviews

[Margaret · Rating 2 out of 5]

So for two stars I quite liked Kate and lady Carstairs and Ambrose. Best person was the flower boy who sold violets. Dialogue was mostly adequate and the plot almost passable for a light read,

But, the sex scenes were not only improbable and also cringe worthy and badly written and the lack of knowledge of how people socialised grated frequently.

Finally it lost at least two stars for ignorant use of American words. How hard can it be to use an atlas to discover that Brighton is actually south of London not north and, even today, it is well beyond an hours journey. We don’t have pastures and ride on the range. We do not call a farm a ranch or have an office of Homeland Security. Horses are in stables not barns.

Maybe US readers will not notice these slips but UK readers cannot fail to be annoyed by them. Or at least this one was.

[Rachel Maiwald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to give this book 5 stars because the story itself was wonderful. It's the first book I haven't been able to put down in a long time. But the author's knowledge of the Regency Era is sadly lacking. It's full of historical inaccuracies.

[Chelz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely recommend for anyone who loves Historical Romance. The timeline and period were obviously well researched and detailed. I loved the underlying theme of horses. The characters were well developed and their chemistry together was great. There were times when I actually laughed out loud. Great sense of humour. A lovely romance novel for anyone looking. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

[Dorothey Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Meadows

This was a really great story. Katherine, or Kate, was a designer of ladies gowns. She traveled to the coast to get a package containing, plates of the empress of France designs . From this. She met Dubois. He worked for the Crown and was interested in what Katherine had received from the smugglers. So much intrigue, a little romance, even danger to Katherine. Enjoy.

[Shirley Hamlod · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it was really good. I like the combination of mystery, intrigue and romance. Ambrose and Kate become linked through their association with coded documents but the plot is wider than first thought. There are two mysteries to solve in this story. A really good read.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy regency romance and this book didn't disappoint. The characters were compelling and the storyline intriguing. I loved the thread of mystery that ran throughout. I look forward to reading more from this author!

[craig wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every word. Cannot wait for the next one!

Anyone who loves a good love affair, mystery and a ending that leaves you wanting more. Would enjoy this book.

[Elaine Bromley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, kept me interested the whole way through the book. I have now read all 4 books by this author and am eagerly waiting for more.