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Pleasure Garden #5
Unmasking the Thief
Thief or gentleman, he is uniquely dangerous!
Governess Matty Mather has grown to love her pupils of the Dove family. When a borrowed ring is stolen from Catherine Dove and her friend, now in their first London Season, the redoubtable Matty goes alone to Maida Pleasure Gardens to confront the thief – who turns out to be outrageous, charming and utterly mysterious.
Francisco de Salgado has been long employed by the British government to take care of insoluble problems, both home and abroad. Returning to England to resign before he loses his soul entirely, he accepts one final mission that he regards as both foolish and beneath him. Making a rare mistake, he returns to Maida to right it – only to be faced with a severe young woman demanding he return the ring he stole.
So begins an attraction that is both unwise and irresistible. Mutual suspicion dissolves eventually into an alliance to discover who is behind a plot to overthrow the British government and why. And the eventual solution will involve several old friends from the previous Pleasure Garden books.
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Pleasure Garden
Unmasking the Hero
Unmasking Deception
Unmasking Sin
Unmasking the Duke
Unmasking the Thief
Governess Matty Mather has grown to love her pupils of the Dove family. When a borrowed ring is stolen from Catherine Dove and her friend, now in their first London Season, the redoubtable Matty goes alone to Maida Pleasure Gardens to confront the thief – who turns out to be outrageous, charming and utterly mysterious.
Francisco de Salgado has been long employed by the British government to take care of insoluble problems, both home and abroad. Returning to England to resign before he loses his soul entirely, he accepts one final mission that he regards as both foolish and beneath him. Making a rare mistake, he returns to Maida to right it – only to be faced with a severe young woman demanding he return the ring he stole.
So begins an attraction that is both unwise and irresistible. Mutual suspicion dissolves eventually into an alliance to discover who is behind a plot to overthrow the British government and why. And the eventual solution will involve several old friends from the previous Pleasure Garden books.
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
Pleasure Garden
Unmasking the Hero
Unmasking Deception
Unmasking Sin
Unmasking the Duke
Unmasking the Thief
287 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2022
228 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Mary Lancaster
139 books519 followersMary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 28, 2022
Governess Matty Mather has grown to love her pupils of the Dove family. When a borrowed ring is stolen from Catherine Dove and her friend Hope, now in their first London Season, the redoubtable Matty goes alone to Maida Pleasure Gardens to confront the thief – who turns out to be outrageous, charming and utterly mysterious. Francisco de Salgado has been long employed by the British government to take care of insoluble problems, both home and abroad. Returning to England to resign before he loses his soul entirely, he accepts one final mission that he regards as both foolish and beneath him. Making a rare mistake, he returns to Maida to right it – only to be faced with a severe young woman demanding he return the ring he stole. So begins an attraction that is both unwise and irresistible.
The fifth & final book in the series, it could be easily read on its own but if you have read the earlier books it makes for a wonderful finale as past characters do make appearances & help in the denouement. Matty & Francisco have made appearances & I love that these secondary characters came into their own. A very well written fast paced story, which I read in a sitting. I loved the verbal banter between the pair & the chemistry between them sizzled. I was totally invested in their journey to a HEA, which was strewn with obstacles but made for an engrossing read. I've thoroughly enjoyed the series & sad to see it finish
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The fifth & final book in the series, it could be easily read on its own but if you have read the earlier books it makes for a wonderful finale as past characters do make appearances & help in the denouement. Matty & Francisco have made appearances & I love that these secondary characters came into their own. A very well written fast paced story, which I read in a sitting. I loved the verbal banter between the pair & the chemistry between them sizzled. I was totally invested in their journey to a HEA, which was strewn with obstacles but made for an engrossing read. I've thoroughly enjoyed the series & sad to see it finish
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 28, 2022
What is lost can be found... Plus a whole lot more!
Another delightful addition to this fabulous series and this time it involves Matty, governess to the Dove children.
When a ring goes missing, she is determined to retrieve it from the last place seen. The Maiden Pleasure Gardens, where of course, anything can happen... She does find the thief.
Francisco is a "fixer" for the Crown and is ready to retire, but decides to do one more job. Unfortunately he ends up with the wrong ring and is confronted by Matty. Really? He has to find out who is trying to overthrow the government and now he finds himself entangled with this lady...
A partnership begins and so does the sparks of attraction!
Another delightful addition to this fabulous series and this time it involves Matty, governess to the Dove children.
When a ring goes missing, she is determined to retrieve it from the last place seen. The Maiden Pleasure Gardens, where of course, anything can happen... She does find the thief.
Francisco is a "fixer" for the Crown and is ready to retire, but decides to do one more job. Unfortunately he ends up with the wrong ring and is confronted by Matty. Really? He has to find out who is trying to overthrow the government and now he finds himself entangled with this lady...
A partnership begins and so does the sparks of attraction!
May 1, 2022
From the very first book, this series has been a delight. I found myself engrossed in the plot of this book from the opening chapter and time stood still for me as I immersed myself in the Maida Pleasure Gardens' latest adventure. Just one last job, he said. Little did Francisco de Salgado realize that his life was about to be turned upside down. Mistaking two young ladies masquerading in the Gardens for his intended mark, he later comes face to face with their governess, who demands the return of the property he stole from them. Matty Mather has had her disappointments, but having made her choice, she is satisfied with the way in which her life has turned out. She enjoys her charges, lesson planning, and outings with the children, accompanied by their massive hound named Pup, who brings humor and entertainment to the story. The interaction between Francis and Matty is tangible and I loved both their characters, especially as Francis was protective towards Matty without smothering her. He appreciated her intelligence and humor, as well as her bravery. Together they unravel a plot meant to cause chaos, whilst at the same time bringing justice to Matty's own family. I received a copy of this heartwarming romance, which comes to a delightful conclusion, as a gift through Dragonblad and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
August 17, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Miss Matty Mather loves being a governess for the Dove family, so much so that she is willing to go to Maida Gardens, risking her reputation, to help her charges. There, she meets the mysterious Francisco de Salgado, the thief who stole the opal ring she is looking for, and there's more to him than meets the eye. Francisco has been involved in many things, from Spain, to England, and even further afield, but he's ready to retire. For his final job, he's tasked with discovering who is plotting against the government, and stop them before it's too late. Crossing paths with Matty, though sh'es very much not involved in the case, it seems she might be close to the villain, and Francisco can't help but be drawn to her.
This is the final book in the Pleasure Garden series, and I really felt as if it tied up a lot of loose ends. We see many of the couples from previous books, and Matty and Francisco were good characters in their own right. Matty was from a respectable family, but after her father died, and she was jilted, she became a governess, and had a great position with the Dove family. However, her family - recently come into some money, and her sister engaged to her former partner - want her to return to them, and stop being an embarrassment as a governess. She really doesn't want that, and meeting Francisco has shown her that she doesn't have to be beholden to them. Francisco has always been a mysterious character, and we learn a lot about his background, which makes sense with what we already know. I liked his character arc, and the epilogue really tied up the whole series well for me. A fitting end to the series.
Miss Matty Mather loves being a governess for the Dove family, so much so that she is willing to go to Maida Gardens, risking her reputation, to help her charges. There, she meets the mysterious Francisco de Salgado, the thief who stole the opal ring she is looking for, and there's more to him than meets the eye. Francisco has been involved in many things, from Spain, to England, and even further afield, but he's ready to retire. For his final job, he's tasked with discovering who is plotting against the government, and stop them before it's too late. Crossing paths with Matty, though sh'es very much not involved in the case, it seems she might be close to the villain, and Francisco can't help but be drawn to her.
This is the final book in the Pleasure Garden series, and I really felt as if it tied up a lot of loose ends. We see many of the couples from previous books, and Matty and Francisco were good characters in their own right. Matty was from a respectable family, but after her father died, and she was jilted, she became a governess, and had a great position with the Dove family. However, her family - recently come into some money, and her sister engaged to her former partner - want her to return to them, and stop being an embarrassment as a governess. She really doesn't want that, and meeting Francisco has shown her that she doesn't have to be beholden to them. Francisco has always been a mysterious character, and we learn a lot about his background, which makes sense with what we already know. I liked his character arc, and the epilogue really tied up the whole series well for me. A fitting end to the series.
May 2, 2022
Another delightful addition to the Pleasure Garden series. Miss. Matty Mathers was the perfect understated heroine. A governess not quite a lady, leaving her connected yet separate from the world of upper society. Lending her an air of knowledge while lacking the confidence to be a part of that world. And yet, she remains a strong-willed, fiercely loyal woman leading her into the chaos of intrigue. Protecting her young charges, leads her into the arms of Francisco. And after that first initial touch, neither will ever be the same. Following this mystery ensues as she struggles to trust Francis, and struggles with her ever-growing feelings. The pairing of these two has so many charmingly sweet moments that it can’t help. It melt your heart. Being the final chapter in the Pleasure Garden series, I was so happy to see each of our couples from books past play an integral part in their story. Coming together as a family to conquer the villain of this tale, was a beautiful goodbye of a series I truly enjoyed from start to finish. Mary Lancaster writes each of these stories with a perfect blend of mystery, romance and the art of the perfect Happily Ever After!
May 7, 2022
I've said this before - such a unique series!
The h is such a wonderful heroine. She has been treated badly by her family, but has found her place being a Governess to a wonderful family.
The H is more than he seems and when he discovers some wrongdoing at the Pleasure Garden he acts. This is where our story really takes off, because he has taken something from the wrong people.
You will love not only the main but secondary character's too. This story has suspense, more than one villain and romance that builds slowly. There is lovemaking outside of marriage and heat level .25 out of 5.
I've read the whole series and it is a stand alone, but I encourage you to read the series. It has cross over character's and will make this story more enriching. I can't improve on the blurb, so not attempting, just recommending this story and author.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance, strong main and secondary character's and bedroom door almost shut. Just a few typos', nothing major. (ljb)
The h is such a wonderful heroine. She has been treated badly by her family, but has found her place being a Governess to a wonderful family.
The H is more than he seems and when he discovers some wrongdoing at the Pleasure Garden he acts. This is where our story really takes off, because he has taken something from the wrong people.
You will love not only the main but secondary character's too. This story has suspense, more than one villain and romance that builds slowly. There is lovemaking outside of marriage and heat level .25 out of 5.
I've read the whole series and it is a stand alone, but I encourage you to read the series. It has cross over character's and will make this story more enriching. I can't improve on the blurb, so not attempting, just recommending this story and author.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance, strong main and secondary character's and bedroom door almost shut. Just a few typos', nothing major. (ljb)
April 30, 2022
Lancaster's heros in this series are so seductive. They have just a little darkness to keep them from being totally good. Francisco de Salgado is no exception. Working discreetly for the British Government in various mysterious capacities, he wants nothing as much as to retire and live in the country. But not, yet. The government has one more job for him to do. Someone is trying to incite rebellion against the government. A mistaken identity at the Maida Gardens, leads to an introduction to Matty Mather, a governess with connections to the man Francis must stop.
What begins as theft turns into an affair of the heart and a gathering of friends to stop a rebellion. One more for Hope?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
What begins as theft turns into an affair of the heart and a gathering of friends to stop a rebellion. One more for Hope?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
April 20, 2022
Governess Matty has to again clean up the mess one of her charges gets into when her ring is stolen at a pleasure garden. Francisco is working for the English government trying to find out who is stirring up unrest. When he steals the wrong ring, he is intrigued by Matty who comes to get it back. Realizing they have some mutual acquaintances, they decide to work together to find out who is behind trying to overthrown the government. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
May 2, 2022
Unmasking the Thief by Mary Lancaster is another in the Maida Pleasure Gardens' series, and possibly the best yet. Francisco de Salgado y Goya is a spy for the crown. There is no better way to say it and he is ready to retire and become a country gentleman. When he goes to announce his decision to his superior he is convinced to take one final case and so finds himself at Maida Gardens looking for a woman wearing a red tulip. He sees a woman who once was his mistress and in the rush to avoid her, he fails to notice the red tulip she is wearing. Instead he comes upon two young people, one a young woman trying to masquerade as a man; she, wearing a red tulip and he, in possession of a ring that might be what he is looking for. Stealing it was not difficult, only for Francis (English name) to discover it was nothing more than a ring. The young people, distraught at losing their brother's ring, tell the story to Miss Matty, their siblings' governess, who immediately decides to return to Maida to confront the thief and retrieve the ring.
Plenty of things happen in this story to make one's heart beat a little faster. One can always rely upon Mary Lancaster to deliver a good story. It is disturbing to realize just how prejudiced people were in this time period. And frightening. It is also disconcerting to realize that politicians were just as corrupt then as now. And that criminals were just as heatless. It was beyond frightening to contemplate the number of deaths that might have occurred if Francis' mission has not been successful. This book was a joy to read, from the characters, to the plot, to the myriad of subplots and peripheral characters. Great job, Mary Lancaster!
I was invited to read Unmasking the Thief by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #marylancaster #unmaskingthethief
Plenty of things happen in this story to make one's heart beat a little faster. One can always rely upon Mary Lancaster to deliver a good story. It is disturbing to realize just how prejudiced people were in this time period. And frightening. It is also disconcerting to realize that politicians were just as corrupt then as now. And that criminals were just as heatless. It was beyond frightening to contemplate the number of deaths that might have occurred if Francis' mission has not been successful. This book was a joy to read, from the characters, to the plot, to the myriad of subplots and peripheral characters. Great job, Mary Lancaster!
I was invited to read Unmasking the Thief by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #marylancaster #unmaskingthethief
April 24, 2022
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
Unmasking the Thief pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you interested right up until the final page. There are no wasted words or chapters. Matty is a great character and I liked her right away. I have not read Viola's story so I didn't know anything about Matty prior to reading this book. She's a strong, independent woman who does not allow anyone to control her. And when she's held captive she doesn't sit around waiting for someone to save her - she is hoping someone will, but still tries to save herself. Franco is the perfect partner for her. He sees beyond her beauty and social position and actually listens to her ideas. Their meeting at Maida is equal parts intriguing and humorous. It was so great that they had so many other people who had their backs when they needed help. Thorne is a pretty awful guy, but not so overdone that you don't believe that part of the story. Emma is also not so terrible that she becomes a caricature. Don't get me wrong, she's terrible, but it's not hard to believe that there were women as petty and selfish as she during the time in which this story takes place. I also liked how her part of the story was resolved. The political intrigue of the story adds just the right amount of drama to the story. Overall, a really great story and addition to this series!
Unmasking the Thief pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you interested right up until the final page. There are no wasted words or chapters. Matty is a great character and I liked her right away. I have not read Viola's story so I didn't know anything about Matty prior to reading this book. She's a strong, independent woman who does not allow anyone to control her. And when she's held captive she doesn't sit around waiting for someone to save her - she is hoping someone will, but still tries to save herself. Franco is the perfect partner for her. He sees beyond her beauty and social position and actually listens to her ideas. Their meeting at Maida is equal parts intriguing and humorous. It was so great that they had so many other people who had their backs when they needed help. Thorne is a pretty awful guy, but not so overdone that you don't believe that part of the story. Emma is also not so terrible that she becomes a caricature. Don't get me wrong, she's terrible, but it's not hard to believe that there were women as petty and selfish as she during the time in which this story takes place. I also liked how her part of the story was resolved. The political intrigue of the story adds just the right amount of drama to the story. Overall, a really great story and addition to this series!
May 3, 2022
This is the fifth installment of the Pleasure Garden series. This has been such an entertaining and enjoyable series so far and this latest addition also did not disappoint. The story pulled me in from the very start and held my interest throughout and I found myself thoroughly immersed in Francisco and Matty's story. Francisco is covertly working for the British Government and is trying to find the person who is trying to launch a rebellion against the government. His search leads him to the Maida Pleasure Garden and to Matty. Matty has connections to the man that Francisco is trying to stop. He steals a ring that belongs to Matty and when she comes to retrieve her ring, he is captivated and intrigued by her. They realize they have some of the same acquaintances and decide to work together to help the government. There are plenty of moments of intrigue and drama as well as swoon worthy moments as well! The pair make an excellent couple and they complement each other well. The chemistry between them was undeniable and I enjoyed the witty banter between them. The story really had me captivated and I was glued till the end. A great addition to the series!
I can't wait to read the next installment!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I can't wait to read the next installment!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
June 22, 2022
Stealing gone wrong
Francisco is soon to be retired spy with one last task to perform and of course it was at Maida gardens! Matty aka Matilda was there to assist her charges in a ring retrieval! For once in his career Francisco had the wrong prey! When he takes the ring he steals a kiss that knocks him off his axis! Francisco has known beautiful women worldwide but this frumpy stern governess immediately got under his skin!
I love Francisco interaction with an old flame he immediately put her in her place and when her later actions almost prove life threatening to Matty he showed a sign of the very ruthless person he was and had to be as a spy!
He and Matty learned early on to keep no secrets and to trust one another! I loved her charges also trusted her to bail them out of difficulties! This story has secret meetings, a large pup, and two people who know they have found a treasure in each other!
There were some sticky moments with Matty's former fiance but those get resolved! I love Francisco man in action when his woman was in trouble! All the characters came together nicely! But Aline from the Dukes story need their own story along with Peter the Dukes brother and the two best friend of the Duke! This should be called the Thief of hearts because he swept in like a whirlwind!! Bravo!!!
Francisco is soon to be retired spy with one last task to perform and of course it was at Maida gardens! Matty aka Matilda was there to assist her charges in a ring retrieval! For once in his career Francisco had the wrong prey! When he takes the ring he steals a kiss that knocks him off his axis! Francisco has known beautiful women worldwide but this frumpy stern governess immediately got under his skin!
I love Francisco interaction with an old flame he immediately put her in her place and when her later actions almost prove life threatening to Matty he showed a sign of the very ruthless person he was and had to be as a spy!
He and Matty learned early on to keep no secrets and to trust one another! I loved her charges also trusted her to bail them out of difficulties! This story has secret meetings, a large pup, and two people who know they have found a treasure in each other!
There were some sticky moments with Matty's former fiance but those get resolved! I love Francisco man in action when his woman was in trouble! All the characters came together nicely! But Aline from the Dukes story need their own story along with Peter the Dukes brother and the two best friend of the Duke! This should be called the Thief of hearts because he swept in like a whirlwind!! Bravo!!!
April 30, 2022
Francisco de Salgado wants to resign from working for the British government, but he agrees to one last mission to find out if there is any truth to the rumor that someone is organizing an insurgency movement across Britain in the hopes of toppling the government. His first lead takes him to Maida, the Pleasure Gardens. He follows the wrong woman and by chance he meets governess Matty Mather. Francis can't get the young woman out of his mind and he risks his mission to be closer to her. Matty is content with her life as a governess, that is, until she meets Francis. She knows he's dangerous, but she's drawn to him like a moth to the flame. Can she help him with his mission without losing her heart to the handsome spy?
This was another enjoyable read in the Pleasure Garden series. There was a good mix of intrigue, danger, tension and attraction between Francis and Matty. Ms. Lancaster knows how to drawn in the reader with her dark and sexy heroes. I also loved Matty. She knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to go after it. I was happy to see she didn't turn into a whimpering miss once she had feelings for Francis. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
This was another enjoyable read in the Pleasure Garden series. There was a good mix of intrigue, danger, tension and attraction between Francis and Matty. Ms. Lancaster knows how to drawn in the reader with her dark and sexy heroes. I also loved Matty. She knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to go after it. I was happy to see she didn't turn into a whimpering miss once she had feelings for Francis. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
April 23, 2022
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.
Unmasking the Thief by Mary Lancaster is the fifth book of the Pleasure Garden series. Governess Matty Mather loves working for the Doves. When Catherine Dove and her friend go to the Maida Pleasure Gardens and lose a borrowed ring to a thief, Matty is determined to retrieve it. She confronts the thief, but she finds herself drawn to the charming, mysterious man. Francisco de Salgado works for the British government. He has returned to England to resign, but decides to accept one last mission. He realizes his mistake in the mission and returns to Maida to rectify it. Francisco is immediately drawn to the woman who demands the ring back. The two soon find themselves as allies in a mission to discover who is planning to overthrow the British government.
I loved the mix of romance and adventure in this book. I also really enjoyed the use of multiple perspectives. It allowed the reader deeper knowledge of each character’s motivations. This was a very exciting read!
Unmasking the Thief by Mary Lancaster is the fifth book of the Pleasure Garden series. Governess Matty Mather loves working for the Doves. When Catherine Dove and her friend go to the Maida Pleasure Gardens and lose a borrowed ring to a thief, Matty is determined to retrieve it. She confronts the thief, but she finds herself drawn to the charming, mysterious man. Francisco de Salgado works for the British government. He has returned to England to resign, but decides to accept one last mission. He realizes his mistake in the mission and returns to Maida to rectify it. Francisco is immediately drawn to the woman who demands the ring back. The two soon find themselves as allies in a mission to discover who is planning to overthrow the British government.
I loved the mix of romance and adventure in this book. I also really enjoyed the use of multiple perspectives. It allowed the reader deeper knowledge of each character’s motivations. This was a very exciting read!
August 6, 2023
Stopped at 71% point
While the female protagonist has gumption, and the male protagonist is intriguing, I was overwhelmed by the cast of characters intruding on their story. I’m guessing these numerous characters occupy other books by the author.
I was relieved that the hero and heroine overcame a minor plot complication caused by a nasty secondary character, and then they declare their feelings for each other. This is at the 71% point. They have already had some lovely romantic encounters, some fun banter, some adventures together, some passionate kisses, and then they have vaguely described sex. After this, I lost interest in the rest of the story.
The political machinations by the antagonist are not very interesting as none of the primary characters seems to be at risk. I figure I can stop reading at the 71% point, at a happy point, and skip all the angst that is likely served up involving all sorts of extra characters I don’t really care about.
While the female protagonist has gumption, and the male protagonist is intriguing, I was overwhelmed by the cast of characters intruding on their story. I’m guessing these numerous characters occupy other books by the author.
I was relieved that the hero and heroine overcame a minor plot complication caused by a nasty secondary character, and then they declare their feelings for each other. This is at the 71% point. They have already had some lovely romantic encounters, some fun banter, some adventures together, some passionate kisses, and then they have vaguely described sex. After this, I lost interest in the rest of the story.
The political machinations by the antagonist are not very interesting as none of the primary characters seems to be at risk. I figure I can stop reading at the 71% point, at a happy point, and skip all the angst that is likely served up involving all sorts of extra characters I don’t really care about.
May 6, 2022
I've loved this series, fitting end to it I fear.
Mattie, governess to the Dove family and Pup, gets her story. Her beau from her teenage years has just become engaged to her younger sister, and she's having trouble convincing them of what a bad move it is, as they think it's about grapes.
Mattie meets mr Francis, or Francisco to retrieve a ring he's taken from the best friend of one of her charges. He is undercover for the government, and through a silly mistake, takes the ring from the wrong young lady. In retrieving the ring, Mattie and Francis strike up a friendship.
Set against a fictional uprising of the masses against parliament, this is set months earlier than the events at Peterloo.
Great finish to the series, not the std urgency romance, but we'll worth a read
Mattie, governess to the Dove family and Pup, gets her story. Her beau from her teenage years has just become engaged to her younger sister, and she's having trouble convincing them of what a bad move it is, as they think it's about grapes.
Mattie meets mr Francis, or Francisco to retrieve a ring he's taken from the best friend of one of her charges. He is undercover for the government, and through a silly mistake, takes the ring from the wrong young lady. In retrieving the ring, Mattie and Francis strike up a friendship.
Set against a fictional uprising of the masses against parliament, this is set months earlier than the events at Peterloo.
Great finish to the series, not the std urgency romance, but we'll worth a read
April 24, 2022
Miss Matty Mathers is very happy in her work as a governess, much to the dismay of her mother and sister. One of the girls she looks after comes to her with a problem. Hopefully Matty can help her.
Mr Francis has worked for the English Crown for many years, even though England is not the land of his birth. He can blend into many situations. Our hero is feeling the pressure from his way of life and gets a little careless.
A very exciting historical romance with a mystery to solve. This book is part of a series and if you have read any of the previous stories you will recognise some of the characters. However you can easily enjoy each book on it's own. They are all full of fabulous characters and lots fun.
I have loved all of them.
Mr Francis has worked for the English Crown for many years, even though England is not the land of his birth. He can blend into many situations. Our hero is feeling the pressure from his way of life and gets a little careless.
A very exciting historical romance with a mystery to solve. This book is part of a series and if you have read any of the previous stories you will recognise some of the characters. However you can easily enjoy each book on it's own. They are all full of fabulous characters and lots fun.
I have loved all of them.
April 28, 2022
Just why would a masked man steal a ring off the finger of a disguised young lady during her evening of adventure at the Pleasure Garden? What could be so tempting that it would be hidden in the ring? Was the worth or need so irresistible? That is what governess Matty Mather is determined to find out. As governess to the Dove family, she feels it is her responsibility to find and return the ring to the rightful owner. As it was stolen off the finger of one of her charges. So, the adventure begins. Wonderful characters, hidden plots to uncover and a chance at love along the way. Interesting narrative and a terrific read.
August 20, 2023
Loved the whole series, wish this wasn't the last!
I really enjoyed how the characters appeared throughout books in this series, as it gave a sense of continuity to the stories. Just as you think the story is wrapping up, there is more intrigue and adventure ahead. There is a very satisfactory climax to the dastardly plot hatched by the h's original suitor, who married someone else for money, ran through it, and then when his wife died and the h's sister inherited money the scumbag attached himself to her. There was plenty of humor too. I would love another book in this series, but alas, this is the finale.
I really enjoyed how the characters appeared throughout books in this series, as it gave a sense of continuity to the stories. Just as you think the story is wrapping up, there is more intrigue and adventure ahead. There is a very satisfactory climax to the dastardly plot hatched by the h's original suitor, who married someone else for money, ran through it, and then when his wife died and the h's sister inherited money the scumbag attached himself to her. There was plenty of humor too. I would love another book in this series, but alas, this is the finale.
April 23, 2022
5 stars
An excellent addition to the series. We have met Matty before but now she gets her own book with a delicious hero called Francis. He is a spook for the government and realises something is afoot.
I enjoyed the return of some of the characters from before especially the boisterous pup. It makes me want to re read some of the earlier books.
I'd heartily recommend this witty and joyous book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An excellent addition to the series. We have met Matty before but now she gets her own book with a delicious hero called Francis. He is a spook for the government and realises something is afoot.
I enjoyed the return of some of the characters from before especially the boisterous pup. It makes me want to re read some of the earlier books.
I'd heartily recommend this witty and joyous book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 23, 2022
Another fabulous romance tied in with the Maida Pleasure Gardens.
Spanish emigree Francisco de Salgado y Goya plans to retire from his undercover work for the British Crown but agrees to do one more job. Unfortunately what should have been a simple task goes sadly awry and he soon finds his thoughts and emotions focused on governess Matilda ‘Matty’ Mathers rather than foiling a treasonous plot. Loved it - highly recommended.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spanish emigree Francisco de Salgado y Goya plans to retire from his undercover work for the British Crown but agrees to do one more job. Unfortunately what should have been a simple task goes sadly awry and he soon finds his thoughts and emotions focused on governess Matilda ‘Matty’ Mathers rather than foiling a treasonous plot. Loved it - highly recommended.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 28, 2025
Better evil plot than most
It had a Machiavellian flavor most Regency villains lack. It was on the grand scale where millions of things can go wrong but, hey dream big. The romance was very mid. And if other people from other novels weren't there a third of the book would be missing. He wasn't really dangerous. None of them were. It felt more Scooby Doo than James Bond, even Buffy had a better sense of danger. But it wasn't typical or preachy so points there. I liked the kids and the dog.
It had a Machiavellian flavor most Regency villains lack. It was on the grand scale where millions of things can go wrong but, hey dream big. The romance was very mid. And if other people from other novels weren't there a third of the book would be missing. He wasn't really dangerous. None of them were. It felt more Scooby Doo than James Bond, even Buffy had a better sense of danger. But it wasn't typical or preachy so points there. I liked the kids and the dog.
April 30, 2022
Loved this book great character's and a bit of intrigue to boot. I haven't read the other's in this series but didn't feel it mattered it worked as a stand alone although some of the other character's were intriguing enough for me to look them up. Recommended just as good a read as the blackhaven series by this author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 15, 2022
Wonderful!
Mary Lancaster is an excellent author. The Pleasure Garden series is beautifully written. The characters build through each novel. I love that they reappear in stories in significant rolls not simply a “guest appearance”. Matty is a remarkable woman, strong and brave, independent and loving, loyal and fierce! Francis has worked years undercover for his adopted country. Together with friends they work to bring down a revolutionary.
Mary Lancaster is an excellent author. The Pleasure Garden series is beautifully written. The characters build through each novel. I love that they reappear in stories in significant rolls not simply a “guest appearance”. Matty is a remarkable woman, strong and brave, independent and loving, loyal and fierce! Francis has worked years undercover for his adopted country. Together with friends they work to bring down a revolutionary.
August 9, 2023
Interesting book indeed. Politics, mystery, intrigues, and love. This book had a good mixture of all of it. The love story was maybe not in the background but also not at the forefront. Francisco and Marty had good chemistry but I think it needed to be a little bit more explored before their quick marriage. I liked the different characters that contributed to the story and also the dog Pup. That dog was cute and funny 😄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2022
I received this book as an ARC from Net Galley. These are my honest opinions.
Another wonderful romance taking place at the Maida Pleasure Gardens. Matty and Francisco were wonderful characters. There was intrigue, suspense and a very large dog in this great story.
A 5-star read. I would highly recommend this book.
Another wonderful romance taking place at the Maida Pleasure Gardens. Matty and Francisco were wonderful characters. There was intrigue, suspense and a very large dog in this great story.
A 5-star read. I would highly recommend this book.
April 28, 2022
Reaction
I really enjoyed the story. I loved how previous characters appeared in the plot and Pup to interact with the hero and heroine. I love the idea of Maida Gardens kind of rundown and slightly less respectable where the upper and lower classes can mingle and magic can happen.
I really enjoyed the story. I loved how previous characters appeared in the plot and Pup to interact with the hero and heroine. I love the idea of Maida Gardens kind of rundown and slightly less respectable where the upper and lower classes can mingle and magic can happen.
May 20, 2022
terrific tale
Mary Lancaster is masterful in developing characters, designing plot twists, and keeping the reader turning pages into the night. I love this next Pleasure Garden entry. I have come to care for those who are in previous novels, I loved seeing and immersing myself with these great people once more.
Mary Lancaster is masterful in developing characters, designing plot twists, and keeping the reader turning pages into the night. I love this next Pleasure Garden entry. I have come to care for those who are in previous novels, I loved seeing and immersing myself with these great people once more.
June 2, 2024
Covering for children who foolishly entered a adult pleasure garden at night, A governess encounters a mysterious man. He had previously stolen a ring from the children. Now he would return it to their governess. Setting off a series of events that would end a potential revolution and end a affair, a ill suited engagement,and concluded with a couple of happily ever afters!
April 30, 2022
Mystery of missing ring
Unmasking The Thief grabs your interest on first chapter. I loved the antics of the children and dog constantly getting in trouble. A mystery of the stolen rings leads to treason, love and fun at the pleasure gardens.
Unmasking The Thief grabs your interest on first chapter. I loved the antics of the children and dog constantly getting in trouble. A mystery of the stolen rings leads to treason, love and fun at the pleasure gardens.
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