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Debutante with a Dangerous Past
A rags-to-riches Regency romance
She’s a counterfeit lady
But he’s stolen her heart! After her criminal father is killed, Miss Nancy Black is forced to seek out her estranged aristocratic grandfather. He offers her a new life as a debutante, but only if she stays out of trouble! Easier said than done when she starts to fall for rebellious Lord Matthew Stringham. Can Nancy risk her heart by telling Matthew the truth about her identity before her dangerous past catches up with her?
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
She’s a counterfeit lady
But he’s stolen her heart! After her criminal father is killed, Miss Nancy Black is forced to seek out her estranged aristocratic grandfather. He offers her a new life as a debutante, but only if she stays out of trouble! Easier said than done when she starts to fall for rebellious Lord Matthew Stringham. Can Nancy risk her heart by telling Matthew the truth about her identity before her dangerous past catches up with her?
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published August 22, 2023
10 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Hastings
56 books285 followersSamantha Hastings has degrees from Brigham Young University, the University of Reading (Berkshire, England), and the University of North Texas. She met her husband in a turkey-sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, eating popcorn, having tea parties, and chasing her kids. She writes cozy mysteries under Samantha Larsen.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 28, 2023
Something that I absolutely love when reading a book in any of the genres that I love, is characters who have witty banter and dialogue. And this one my friends delivered that in spades! I loved it so much! It hooked me completely and I found myself turning the pages quickly just to see what great conversations and quips would be next from all of the characters! This is a pretty quick read, if you don't have a lot of things pulling you away from reading it like I did. I think you could easily enjoy this book in one sitting, if your schedule is cleared.
I've loved every book that I've read from this author and always look forward to hearing that she has a new one coming! This book is part of the Stringham Family series, but it can be read as a standalone. There are a couple previously published books for that family and there are more coming! I can't wait!!!
Both of the main characters were very well written. Nancy and Matthew come from very different upbringings. I loved what they both brought to the relationship from their pasts and their experiences. Nancy grew up with a father who was unscrupulous and taught her to steal and spy and the such. She did it to survive but is not too keen on Matthew knowing but at the same time, she knows she can't further a relationship if he doesn't know what's in her past. But Matthew loves her as she is and sees her goodness. I loved all that he did to find ways to protect and help her. So swoony! You're going to love the dynamics and chemistry between these two. And watch out for those kisses!
Matthew's family was so fun to watch in their interactions with him and with Nancy. They are all very witty. And Nancy's family, I loved them. Especially her Aunt Marianne! You guys are going to be watching for every scene that she appears in! She's the best and so are her two sons! So many great characters that gave this book such a well rounded cast and storyline that flowed smoothly together and wove this book together! Loved it so much!!! I'll be patiently waiting for the next book!
Content: There are some more intense kissing scenes in this book but nothing further than kisses. I would consider it a clean PG-13.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I've loved every book that I've read from this author and always look forward to hearing that she has a new one coming! This book is part of the Stringham Family series, but it can be read as a standalone. There are a couple previously published books for that family and there are more coming! I can't wait!!!
Both of the main characters were very well written. Nancy and Matthew come from very different upbringings. I loved what they both brought to the relationship from their pasts and their experiences. Nancy grew up with a father who was unscrupulous and taught her to steal and spy and the such. She did it to survive but is not too keen on Matthew knowing but at the same time, she knows she can't further a relationship if he doesn't know what's in her past. But Matthew loves her as she is and sees her goodness. I loved all that he did to find ways to protect and help her. So swoony! You're going to love the dynamics and chemistry between these two. And watch out for those kisses!
Matthew's family was so fun to watch in their interactions with him and with Nancy. They are all very witty. And Nancy's family, I loved them. Especially her Aunt Marianne! You guys are going to be watching for every scene that she appears in! She's the best and so are her two sons! So many great characters that gave this book such a well rounded cast and storyline that flowed smoothly together and wove this book together! Loved it so much!!! I'll be patiently waiting for the next book!
Content: There are some more intense kissing scenes in this book but nothing further than kisses. I would consider it a clean PG-13.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 22, 2023
Everyone deserves a second chance at life...even if it comes from blackmailing family.
Nancy had a hard upbringing and now left with no one in the world, she blackmails her grandfather into helping her start over. Although Nancy has lived a dangerous life and knows way too much about the world of crime, I couldn't help but love her and admire her spunk. Her first meet with Matthew was so much fun and I was immediately intrigued by him.
Matthew and Nancy are wonderful characters and their word spars delighted me. In fact, "Matthew was clever and kind and so witty with words that he would keep her laughing for the rest of her life" and every banter put a smile on my face too. I loved how he was able to surprise Nancy and use his words to be a tough businessman and negotiator, yet also use them to be so sweet, accepting, and loving.
Nancy's aunt was the hidden gem of the story. Nicknamed "The Nose," she seems so rigid and stern, but has a melty center and I adored her.
Full of fun characters, wordy banter, mystery and adventure and danger, this is a Regency romance not to miss!
Content: mild+ romance (passionate kissing, some innuendo, talk of prostitution); mild moments of danger/peril, including off screen death
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Nancy had a hard upbringing and now left with no one in the world, she blackmails her grandfather into helping her start over. Although Nancy has lived a dangerous life and knows way too much about the world of crime, I couldn't help but love her and admire her spunk. Her first meet with Matthew was so much fun and I was immediately intrigued by him.
Matthew and Nancy are wonderful characters and their word spars delighted me. In fact, "Matthew was clever and kind and so witty with words that he would keep her laughing for the rest of her life" and every banter put a smile on my face too. I loved how he was able to surprise Nancy and use his words to be a tough businessman and negotiator, yet also use them to be so sweet, accepting, and loving.
Nancy's aunt was the hidden gem of the story. Nicknamed "The Nose," she seems so rigid and stern, but has a melty center and I adored her.
Full of fun characters, wordy banter, mystery and adventure and danger, this is a Regency romance not to miss!
Content: mild+ romance (passionate kissing, some innuendo, talk of prostitution); mild moments of danger/peril, including off screen death
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
August 25, 2023
A Charming rags to riches, criminal to Countess historical romance. Nancy Black had been dealt with a bad deck of cards. Her mother passed away in childbirth. Her father was a gambler and a thief. She was raised for the first few years by her paternal grandmother. After she passed away, her father came and got her, and made her disguise as a boy. After her father was sent to prison she was taken in by a Madame that had made her sign a contract that said she owned her for 10 years. When her father got out of prison he came to get her and pulled her in to his criminal dealings after many years of this she came home to be shot at and to find her father had her already been shot and passed away. The last thing he told her was that she was to go to her maternal grandfather. She had attempted to reach out to him when she was 14 but was turned away, this time she has a bargaining chip and blackmail it is. Nancy is a very interesting character. She was very savvy, intelligent and can wield a knife with the best of them. When she sneaks in to her grandfathers building, she asked the first person she sees if he can show her where his office is. Matthew had actually just left this young woman’s grandfather‘s office. Matthew, the second son of a duke had his own agenda and plan for his future. This beautiful, dark haired, blue-eyed woman literally stopped him in his tracks.
There was so much depth in these characters I enjoyed their witty banter, their learning to trust each other, and their sweet passion. The story held suspense, mystery, intrigue and swoony romance. I appreciated the authors attention to detail, I do wish she would watch her modern day language. (Ugh, gross - for example) albeit minor and didn’t deter me from enjoying beginning to end. A clean, (maybe a little more detail than I’m used to - but nothing untoward) romance. 4.5 stars
There was so much depth in these characters I enjoyed their witty banter, their learning to trust each other, and their sweet passion. The story held suspense, mystery, intrigue and swoony romance. I appreciated the authors attention to detail, I do wish she would watch her modern day language. (Ugh, gross - for example) albeit minor and didn’t deter me from enjoying beginning to end. A clean, (maybe a little more detail than I’m used to - but nothing untoward) romance. 4.5 stars
August 28, 2023
Nancy hasn’t wanted anything to do with her grandfather or the life he represents. Until she her father is killed and she has no choice but to go to him. The bargain they make, mostly due a little blackmail, is not what Nancy was expecting.
Being forced to become a debutante was not on the list of life choices Nancy would have ever made for herself but when she meets Lord Matthew Stringham she starts to question if the life she was always warned against may not be as bad as she thought. The closer she gets to Matthew the harder it is to keep the secrets of her past from him.
Samantha brings us another beautiful, witty, no nonsense, independent woman. She knows what she’s doing when it comes to writing female characters in the regency era. I love how she keeps the settings authentic while giving women the voice they deserve.
Samantha also knows how to banter! The romance in this one is no exception to the great romances we’ve seen in her other books. I know that ever time I pick up one of her books I will walk into regency London with all it’s balls and politics and get the best kind of regency romances. I will continue to recommend Samantha’s books.
Being forced to become a debutante was not on the list of life choices Nancy would have ever made for herself but when she meets Lord Matthew Stringham she starts to question if the life she was always warned against may not be as bad as she thought. The closer she gets to Matthew the harder it is to keep the secrets of her past from him.
Samantha brings us another beautiful, witty, no nonsense, independent woman. She knows what she’s doing when it comes to writing female characters in the regency era. I love how she keeps the settings authentic while giving women the voice they deserve.
Samantha also knows how to banter! The romance in this one is no exception to the great romances we’ve seen in her other books. I know that ever time I pick up one of her books I will walk into regency London with all it’s balls and politics and get the best kind of regency romances. I will continue to recommend Samantha’s books.
December 5, 2024
The Debutante with a Dangerous Past was another fantastic read by Samantha Hastings. She is already an auto read author for me so I was really excited to read this. Once again, I was not disappointed. Hastings does an amazing job with her characters. And I enjoyed reading another book with the Stringham sisters. Frederica was wonderful. But Nancy’s Aunt Marianne was a lovely surprise. She was tough as nails, but exactly the friend and family Nancy needed. As well as her two sons. There were some special moments of past stories that were wonderful. This book also has quite the adventure in that Nancy had a shady past and the ramifications of that. Matthew was wonderful too! Their chemistry was perfect. And the loved the word play.
I received a copy from the author. All views and opinions are my own.
I received a copy from the author. All views and opinions are my own.
August 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this book by Samantha Hastings. I loved the characters and how the romance between Nancy and Matthew developed. I liked how Matthew didn’t care about her past even though he did everything to learn about it so he could protect her. I liked how as Nancy got to know Matthew and her estranged family, she discovered that she was worthy of love and that there were people who were willing to help her. I loved getting to see more of the Stringham family and look forward to reading more about them in future books.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
August 30, 2023
Danager, blackmail, continuous witty banter (the word play games are the absolute best), and of course ridiculously swoony romance, this story has everything a reader wants. A rags-to-riches, second-chance-at-life story that readers will absolutely adore. This story has so many fun characters from the FMC and MMC Nancy and Matthew to the best side characters including a rigid aunt who really has a gooey interior and a standoffish grandfather who really just wanted to get to know his granddaughter. And of course there are the bad guys. This story is just an absolute delight to read from cover to cover. Especially with the swoony swoony romance between Nancy and Matthew. They have so many fun scenes that range from delightful witty banter to devastatingly paralyzing and senseless kissing. Readers will not want to miss another story from Samantha Hastings!
Series:The Stringham Family
Genre: historical, regency, romance
Publisher:Harlequin
Publication date: August 22, 2023
Number of pages: 288
Content warning: mild romance (passionate kissing, innuendo), talk of prostitution, mild moments of danger/peril, off screen death
Other books in the series:
1-The Duchess Countess
2-The Marquess and the Runaway Lady
4-Christmas in a Castle (coming November 2023)
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series:The Stringham Family
Genre: historical, regency, romance
Publisher:Harlequin
Publication date: August 22, 2023
Number of pages: 288
Content warning: mild romance (passionate kissing, innuendo), talk of prostitution, mild moments of danger/peril, off screen death
Other books in the series:
1-The Duchess Countess
2-The Marquess and the Runaway Lady
4-Christmas in a Castle (coming November 2023)
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
August 31, 2023
I discovered Samantha Hastings books within the past couple of years and she quickly became a favorite author. Whenever I hear she has a new book releasing I look forward to escaping into the lives of her characters.
Nancy has led an unconventional life due to her father's penchant for gambling. When her father is murdered she has no choice but to turn to the grandfather she doesn't know. Nancy and her grandfather come to an agreement and she moves in with him and his widowed daughter-in-law, Nancy's Aunt Marianne. Matthew is the second son of a Duke. When he's not working with his father he's avoiding the matchmaking mamas in Society. I loved Matthew. He's smart, funny and has a kind heart.
Because of her father's lifestyle Nancy learned how to make herself become the person the situation or con called for and I loved watching her learn to just be herself. I loved every scene with Nancy and Matthew--especially the word games and banter! Although these two were from very different backgrounds they were perfect for each other.
I loved being back with the lively Stringham family; you never know what might happen with them. You can tell everyone loves one another even if they might not always get along. Besides Nancy and Matthew, my favorite character was Aunt Marianne. I didn't quite care for her in the beginning but she quickly changed my mind with the way she treated Nancy.
There was so much to love in this book: wonderful characters, Nancy learning she deserves love and realizing that her grandfather does love her. There's also some suspense and a little danger.
Content: There are some intense kissing scenes but nothing further than kisses, mild peril, and mild violence.
I received a complimentary ebook. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Nancy has led an unconventional life due to her father's penchant for gambling. When her father is murdered she has no choice but to turn to the grandfather she doesn't know. Nancy and her grandfather come to an agreement and she moves in with him and his widowed daughter-in-law, Nancy's Aunt Marianne. Matthew is the second son of a Duke. When he's not working with his father he's avoiding the matchmaking mamas in Society. I loved Matthew. He's smart, funny and has a kind heart.
Because of her father's lifestyle Nancy learned how to make herself become the person the situation or con called for and I loved watching her learn to just be herself. I loved every scene with Nancy and Matthew--especially the word games and banter! Although these two were from very different backgrounds they were perfect for each other.
I loved being back with the lively Stringham family; you never know what might happen with them. You can tell everyone loves one another even if they might not always get along. Besides Nancy and Matthew, my favorite character was Aunt Marianne. I didn't quite care for her in the beginning but she quickly changed my mind with the way she treated Nancy.
There was so much to love in this book: wonderful characters, Nancy learning she deserves love and realizing that her grandfather does love her. There's also some suspense and a little danger.
Content: There are some intense kissing scenes but nothing further than kisses, mild peril, and mild violence.
I received a complimentary ebook. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
August 25, 2023
* I received an e-arc for review from the author. Thank you for the opportunity! All thoughts are my own*
So happy to read and review another book from Samantha Hastings! She has become one of my go-to authors and I quickly devour her stories. Debutante With a Dangerous Past was an utter delight and I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction and romance. It’s also great for those who like mysteries with a dash of danger as well. This book can be read as a standalone, but I think reading The Marquess and the Runaway Lady first was helpful, as there are characters from that story that are included in this one, and it made it more enjoyable for me.
Nancy Black had a very tough upbringing. After her criminal father is killed and she has nothing left, she is forced to visit her estranged aristocratic grandfather and blackmail him in order to survive. He offers her a new life as a debutante on the condition that she will stay out of trouble. This is easier said than done, when she starts to fall for the rebellious Lord Matthew Stringham. Will Nancy be able to tell Matthew the truth about her identity and her dangerous past at the risk of her own heart?
I just love Nancy! Despite her tragic upbringing and her vast criminal knowledge, I really admire how she is still such a good person at heart, and she is so smart, sassy, and witty. I loved meeting Matthew, the younger of the Stringham brothers. His first meet with Nancy was *chefs kiss* and he is such a likeable character. I loved the banter and word sparring between him and Nancy. It was great to see Frederica and other members of the Stringham family again too! Aunt Marianne aka “The Nose” was a pleasant surprise as well.
Debutante With a Dangerous Past it out now, so be sure to pick up a copy! I highly recommend, and I am hopeful that Samantha will continue with more stories from the Stringham family.
So happy to read and review another book from Samantha Hastings! She has become one of my go-to authors and I quickly devour her stories. Debutante With a Dangerous Past was an utter delight and I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction and romance. It’s also great for those who like mysteries with a dash of danger as well. This book can be read as a standalone, but I think reading The Marquess and the Runaway Lady first was helpful, as there are characters from that story that are included in this one, and it made it more enjoyable for me.
Nancy Black had a very tough upbringing. After her criminal father is killed and she has nothing left, she is forced to visit her estranged aristocratic grandfather and blackmail him in order to survive. He offers her a new life as a debutante on the condition that she will stay out of trouble. This is easier said than done, when she starts to fall for the rebellious Lord Matthew Stringham. Will Nancy be able to tell Matthew the truth about her identity and her dangerous past at the risk of her own heart?
I just love Nancy! Despite her tragic upbringing and her vast criminal knowledge, I really admire how she is still such a good person at heart, and she is so smart, sassy, and witty. I loved meeting Matthew, the younger of the Stringham brothers. His first meet with Nancy was *chefs kiss* and he is such a likeable character. I loved the banter and word sparring between him and Nancy. It was great to see Frederica and other members of the Stringham family again too! Aunt Marianne aka “The Nose” was a pleasant surprise as well.
Debutante With a Dangerous Past it out now, so be sure to pick up a copy! I highly recommend, and I am hopeful that Samantha will continue with more stories from the Stringham family.
August 23, 2023
This was my first story from this author, but I can promise it won’t be my last! From the beginning I became hooked and just couldn’t seem to put it down. I loved the characters and especially the sibling bantering going on between the Stringham family members. Nancy has led a hard and dangerous life, and I enjoyed watching her transform as she learned to love and open her heart to trust again. The added elements of mystery, danger, and a touch of suspense kept my attention and dying to know what would happen next. A great regency story!
July 11, 2023
Such a darling book! The characters were so lovable with charming banter. I fell in love with Matthew and Nancy and enjoyed diving into their adventure. Samantha Hastings has such a way with words that I devoured this story. I would definitely recommend it.
September 4, 2023
Samantha Hastings once again delivers a fabulous regency romance, full of delightfully witty banter and wonderfully human characters. I love how Hastings crafts stories that include both a romance and an action plot, and Debutante with a Dangerous Past fits this pattern perfectly!
Nancy and Matthew's romance is so enjoyable to read! It's swoony in all the right spots, with a wonderful arc from initial attraction to falling in love. I love that it doesn't stray past kissing and that their romance develops emotionally and intellectually as well as physically. Their romance is perfectly engaging to read while also feeling real, which is always a tricky thing to write!
Nancy's past as a member of a criminal gang and the repercussions from this make for an intriuging action side to the novel. There are twists and turns and characters who turn out to be unexpectedly helpful. The villain is terrifying because he is quite realistic -- you just know there are and always have been people who are terrible, just like Sir Alastair is. His character adds so much depth because of how true to reality he is.
Throughout the story, Hastings weaves the concept of the difficulty of trust and of people's ability to change. Trust is always hard, although obviously to varying degrees, and the theme of earning trust is woven within the plot. I enjoyed that Nancy was written in such a way that allowed for the difficulty of trust for her without being hopeless. (I'm sure it was written rather hopefully for someone who has experienced that much trauma, but I appreciate that Hastings balanced acknowledging this with also keeping the story a regency romance.)
Hastings will definitely remain on my auto buy list! Highly recommend Debutante with a Dangerous Past.
I recieved an ARC copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Nancy and Matthew's romance is so enjoyable to read! It's swoony in all the right spots, with a wonderful arc from initial attraction to falling in love. I love that it doesn't stray past kissing and that their romance develops emotionally and intellectually as well as physically. Their romance is perfectly engaging to read while also feeling real, which is always a tricky thing to write!
Nancy's past as a member of a criminal gang and the repercussions from this make for an intriuging action side to the novel. There are twists and turns and characters who turn out to be unexpectedly helpful. The villain is terrifying because he is quite realistic -- you just know there are and always have been people who are terrible, just like Sir Alastair is. His character adds so much depth because of how true to reality he is.
Throughout the story, Hastings weaves the concept of the difficulty of trust and of people's ability to change. Trust is always hard, although obviously to varying degrees, and the theme of earning trust is woven within the plot. I enjoyed that Nancy was written in such a way that allowed for the difficulty of trust for her without being hopeless. (I'm sure it was written rather hopefully for someone who has experienced that much trauma, but I appreciate that Hastings balanced acknowledging this with also keeping the story a regency romance.)
Hastings will definitely remain on my auto buy list! Highly recommend Debutante with a Dangerous Past.
I recieved an ARC copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 6, 2023
Raised by her criminal father and a member of a band of criminals herself, Nancy Black has a history. When a job goes wrong and she finds her father murdered, she needs protection and seeks it out from her high society grandfather. When he offers her a large dowry, she accepts his offer to become a proper lady and aims to just get married. That is until she meets Lord Matthew Stringham.
When Lord Matthew Stringham meets and escorts a young lady to meet her grandfather, he is immediately intrigued. Happily he finds out that this young lady is named Nancy Black and will soon be his newest neighbor. Knowing she is keeping secrets, Matthew uses his deduction skills and very talented secretary to put everything together. As danger draws closer, Nancy must decide if she will trust Matthew or if she must spend her life alone.
I have come to really enjoy Samantha Hastings’ books this year and “Debutante with a Dangerous Past” was a great addition to her library. To give Nancy the dangerous and criminal past was a great storyline. From the start, we are thrown into danger and suspense with her that continues through the book.
Nancy and Matthew are such a fun couple. I loved the instant attraction in this book. I thought it was done well and added to the storyline. The banter that these two have is superb! Both are resourceful and able to take care of themselves but find that as a team they are even better.
Another thing that I loved was Nancy learning that she had value and was important. It’s a beautiful and at times heart wrenching lesson to learn but I loved seeing Nancy realize her worth.
“Debutante with a Dangerous Past” is now available. It is the perfect read for anyone who loves danger, suspense, instant attraction, and swoony banter.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. These opinions are my own.
When Lord Matthew Stringham meets and escorts a young lady to meet her grandfather, he is immediately intrigued. Happily he finds out that this young lady is named Nancy Black and will soon be his newest neighbor. Knowing she is keeping secrets, Matthew uses his deduction skills and very talented secretary to put everything together. As danger draws closer, Nancy must decide if she will trust Matthew or if she must spend her life alone.
I have come to really enjoy Samantha Hastings’ books this year and “Debutante with a Dangerous Past” was a great addition to her library. To give Nancy the dangerous and criminal past was a great storyline. From the start, we are thrown into danger and suspense with her that continues through the book.
Nancy and Matthew are such a fun couple. I loved the instant attraction in this book. I thought it was done well and added to the storyline. The banter that these two have is superb! Both are resourceful and able to take care of themselves but find that as a team they are even better.
Another thing that I loved was Nancy learning that she had value and was important. It’s a beautiful and at times heart wrenching lesson to learn but I loved seeing Nancy realize her worth.
“Debutante with a Dangerous Past” is now available. It is the perfect read for anyone who loves danger, suspense, instant attraction, and swoony banter.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. These opinions are my own.
August 31, 2023
Miss Nancy Black is forced to flee and seek refuge with her influential grandfather, the Lord Secretary, who had never shown interest in her before. She took quite a gamble, which showed that she was bold and daring as she strikes a bargain with him that will give her the opportunity to have a season in London. I loved her Aunt Marianne who became her chaperone and a mother to her in many ways.
Nancy had lead a very unconventional and dangerous life before arriving in London that made her take risks that no other young lady in society would attempt. She carries a dagger and isn’t afraid to use it if necessary. Her fearlessness and vulnerability are two of the things I liked most about her.
Lord Matthew Stringham was the right man for Nancy, He wasn’t ever shocked by what she had to share with him about her questionable past. This acceptance without judgment was just what she needed to help her overcome her feelings of being unworthy of being loved. Matthew’s unusual gift he gave Nancy in lieu of flowers made me smile and think it was perfect for her. They also make a great team uncovering a spy ring and foiling their plans.
I like romance books with kissing, but I am not interested in the details. This had more spice than I like to read, so when this occurred I skipped those scenes.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Nancy had lead a very unconventional and dangerous life before arriving in London that made her take risks that no other young lady in society would attempt. She carries a dagger and isn’t afraid to use it if necessary. Her fearlessness and vulnerability are two of the things I liked most about her.
Lord Matthew Stringham was the right man for Nancy, He wasn’t ever shocked by what she had to share with him about her questionable past. This acceptance without judgment was just what she needed to help her overcome her feelings of being unworthy of being loved. Matthew’s unusual gift he gave Nancy in lieu of flowers made me smile and think it was perfect for her. They also make a great team uncovering a spy ring and foiling their plans.
I like romance books with kissing, but I am not interested in the details. This had more spice than I like to read, so when this occurred I skipped those scenes.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
September 9, 2023
Debutante with a dangerous past by Samantha Hastings (also writes as Samantha Larsen)
This Regency Era historical novel set in 1813 is the second Stringham siblings novel and I highly recommend reading The Duchess contract, a novella about the Stringham parents and then book one The Marquess and the runaway lady to get to know the loveable, eccentric Stringham family from the beginning before reading this book which focuses on Matthew Stringham who despite being the son of a Duke is also a business man in his own right.
The story starts when Nancy Black, the granddaughter of a nobleman and daughter of a criminal who has been brought up in the criminal underworld and only recently entered into polite society via a tentative reconciliation with her previously estranged grandfather following the murder of her father crosses paths with the Stringham family.
It's not so much a mystery as we are fully aware of who the big bad is in this novel from fairly early on but I enjoyed the adventure of this romance/crime caper and loved being back with the Stringham family. The novel showed the usual London season, balls etc that we are used to seeing in a Regency Era novel but also featured the criminal underbelly of the Regency Era and highlighted the limited options and dangers for women of the lower classes.
I'm looking forward to seeing more of the animal obsessed Stringham sisters in the next volume in the Stringham saga they were only in Debutante a tiny bit.
This Regency Era historical novel set in 1813 is the second Stringham siblings novel and I highly recommend reading The Duchess contract, a novella about the Stringham parents and then book one The Marquess and the runaway lady to get to know the loveable, eccentric Stringham family from the beginning before reading this book which focuses on Matthew Stringham who despite being the son of a Duke is also a business man in his own right.
The story starts when Nancy Black, the granddaughter of a nobleman and daughter of a criminal who has been brought up in the criminal underworld and only recently entered into polite society via a tentative reconciliation with her previously estranged grandfather following the murder of her father crosses paths with the Stringham family.
It's not so much a mystery as we are fully aware of who the big bad is in this novel from fairly early on but I enjoyed the adventure of this romance/crime caper and loved being back with the Stringham family. The novel showed the usual London season, balls etc that we are used to seeing in a Regency Era novel but also featured the criminal underbelly of the Regency Era and highlighted the limited options and dangers for women of the lower classes.
I'm looking forward to seeing more of the animal obsessed Stringham sisters in the next volume in the Stringham saga they were only in Debutante a tiny bit.
September 18, 2023
Nancy Black has lived a life of crime with her father, but now he is dead. As a result, she is forced to go to her estranged grandfather who disowned her mother when she'd married Nancy's father. Thinking all these years that her grandfather had ignored her existence, Nancy blackmails him to give her a season and a dowry, with the leverage of some secret documents in her possession. Of course her grandfather acquiesces to her wishes, given what is at stake. In that social circle, Nancy meets Lord Matthew Stringham and they form an attachment. But there is still something holding Nancy back from agreeing to Matthew's suggestion of a formal courtship: she is a murderess.
Matthew Stringham has made his way most of his life, being a younger son. He threw himself into business and has become quite successful on his own. When he meets Nancy Black, he is taken with her and soon starts pursuing her in earnest. Then he finds out the truth about her past and what happened prior to her coming into her grandfather's life.
While Matthew finds out the truth about Nancy's past and doesn't hold it against her, Nancy has misgivings, not wanting her past to taint Matthew's reputation. Can Nancy put aside her misgivings about the way she had to live, in order to have a happily ever after with Matthew?
This was an enjoyable read with a web of intrigue surrounding the romance.
Matthew Stringham has made his way most of his life, being a younger son. He threw himself into business and has become quite successful on his own. When he meets Nancy Black, he is taken with her and soon starts pursuing her in earnest. Then he finds out the truth about her past and what happened prior to her coming into her grandfather's life.
While Matthew finds out the truth about Nancy's past and doesn't hold it against her, Nancy has misgivings, not wanting her past to taint Matthew's reputation. Can Nancy put aside her misgivings about the way she had to live, in order to have a happily ever after with Matthew?
This was an enjoyable read with a web of intrigue surrounding the romance.
September 14, 2023
Nancy Black has learned to use knives, pickpocket, and seen the best houses in
London as a thief. Nancy and her father were part of a criminal gang. They have learned to trust them, but something went wrong in this last job. She felt betrayed. When her father dies in her arms, he asked her to go to her grandfather for safety. She had tried that before and was turned away. Will she be welcome this time?
Lord Matthew Stringham is the second son from a family who have their own pet projects. They are loyal to each other. Matthew runs a very successful business. So successful in fact that he can even tax on snobbery if he wishes it! Which he often does when it comes to Lord Brampton.
When they meet Nancy is caught off guard by the handsome gentlemen. She could easily pickpocket his purse which she predicts has 10 pounds. Matthew is intrigued by the mystery that surrounds her.
Highlights of this fun mystery romance I enjoyed were the bantering between Matthew and Nancy, the word games they played, and how they come to trust each other.
It was fun to revisit Matthew’s eccentric family and see the closeness they share. They also have a lot of fun at the expense of each other.
I love the variety of themes in Samantha Hastings books. The Stringham family series are humous, with great bantering between siblings and couples. That is always a plus for me.
London as a thief. Nancy and her father were part of a criminal gang. They have learned to trust them, but something went wrong in this last job. She felt betrayed. When her father dies in her arms, he asked her to go to her grandfather for safety. She had tried that before and was turned away. Will she be welcome this time?
Lord Matthew Stringham is the second son from a family who have their own pet projects. They are loyal to each other. Matthew runs a very successful business. So successful in fact that he can even tax on snobbery if he wishes it! Which he often does when it comes to Lord Brampton.
When they meet Nancy is caught off guard by the handsome gentlemen. She could easily pickpocket his purse which she predicts has 10 pounds. Matthew is intrigued by the mystery that surrounds her.
Highlights of this fun mystery romance I enjoyed were the bantering between Matthew and Nancy, the word games they played, and how they come to trust each other.
It was fun to revisit Matthew’s eccentric family and see the closeness they share. They also have a lot of fun at the expense of each other.
I love the variety of themes in Samantha Hastings books. The Stringham family series are humous, with great bantering between siblings and couples. That is always a plus for me.
August 23, 2023
Guess what? This is my first book by this author! I know, I am so late to the game here but better late than never, right? My friends have been reading this author's book for so long and I have no idea why I haven't been there with them. This was the perfect book to start with though because it wasn't just a regency book. It had danger and intrigue to go with the growing romance. It was perfect!
I loved Nancy. She did what she had to do to survive and brought a great perspective to the why's of what she did in her past. She was plucky, witty and brave. Matthew was a gem of a guy. I loved the way he thought- not only about Nancy, but the world in general. He was awesome. I loved their word banter and I loved when they danced. Matthew helped Nancy feel safe and that is such a sexy trait. It can't be overrated in my opinion.
So yes, grab this book and have fun reading it! It was so good!
Content: mild peril, mild violence. Kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved Nancy. She did what she had to do to survive and brought a great perspective to the why's of what she did in her past. She was plucky, witty and brave. Matthew was a gem of a guy. I loved the way he thought- not only about Nancy, but the world in general. He was awesome. I loved their word banter and I loved when they danced. Matthew helped Nancy feel safe and that is such a sexy trait. It can't be overrated in my opinion.
So yes, grab this book and have fun reading it! It was so good!
Content: mild peril, mild violence. Kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 22, 2023
Perfect relaxing read for my poolside weekend getaway. Exciting and like-able characters. A delightful twist I did not see coming. Just a fun, entertaining pleasant read. Samantha balances context, character development with an engaging, interesting and easy to follow story line that makes reading pleasurable. Highly recommend this author!
September 6, 2023
I love Samantha’s book.
September 17, 2023
An entertaining read with sparkling dialogue and characters you can really get invested in the fate of.
September 20, 2023
I loved this book! I enjoyed the characters and the plot was awesome! The bad guy was so creepy and the hero was swoon-worthy! You don’t need to read the first books… but I do recommend it!
January 22, 2024
I liked the subtle mystery and intrigue in this story! I really liked the dynamic between Matthew and Nancy!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
July 9, 2024
I loved every bit of this book; it was a romance, but also had a mystery included. I have enjoyed all of Samantha's books, but this might be one of my very favorites!
January 4, 2025
I finally started reading about the Stringham family and this was an absolutely intriguing story! Samantha is one of my favorite authors!
February 19, 2025
Although this is my favorite genre, I had a hard time with the writing style. Although technically a proper romance, it felt edgy, but not in a good way. Rather, it seemed forced and cheap.
June 24, 2024
Dany -per RFS
.
Care Fenici, ho letto molto volentieri Una pericolosa debuttante! Ho letto decisamente tanti Regency, forse troppi, ma questo in particolare è risultato, in qualche modo, fuori dal comune.
La trama è ben scritta, intricata al punto giusto, non al livello da stufare, l’autrice si è messa d’impegno per evitare personaggi noiosi e dare a tutti una personalità. Non è cosa da poco. Tra trama e narrazione fluida, questo libro è un bel gioiellino.
Detto ciò, passiamo ai personaggi.
Lord Matthew Stringham è il figlio cadetto di un duca, nato in una famiglia tutt’altro che convenzionale, dato che la madre, seppur duchessa, dirige una profumeria e crea personalmente i profumi per poi scegliere a chi regalarli e a chi venderli. Per non parlare dei nonni materni: borghesi e commercianti, quindi esclusi da tutto ciò che riguarda il Ton. Matthew potrebbe essere uno snob, e invece è un bravo ragazzo, un uomo che ha dei sogni da portare a termine, uno dei quali è trovare l’amore e formare una famiglia sua.
Vi parlo prima di lui poiché, se permettete, è strano trovare l’uomo che sogna l’amore in un Regency. Ma ora veniamo alla protagonista femminile: Nancy Black.
Nancy è una ladra cresciuta con il padre nei bassifondi, non si fa nessuno scrupolo nel rapinare le persone, scappare dalle guardie e mentire. Però sa combattere e anche piuttosto bene. Durante una rapina finita male, riesce a scappare portando con sé dei documenti importanti per l’esercito, ma purtroppo arriva troppo tardi per salvare la vita del padre, che trova morente nella stanza dove abitavano dopo essere stato aggredito. Decide allora di tentare la via del ricatto e appellarsi al nonno materno, che non ha mai visto.
Ma come si incastrano questi due personaggi totalmente agli antipodi? Proprio grazie al famoso nonno, che altri non è che Lord Brampton, segretario di Stato per la guerra e le colonie.
Può sembrare un maledetto vecchiaccio, snob, arrogante e insensibile ma, fidatevi, potrebbe sorprendervi.
Matthew e Nancy si incontrato proprio nella sede dove lavora Lord Brampton. Il primo per parlare di affari e la seconda per ricattarlo. Tra i due avviene una specie di colpo di fulmine, ma quella cauta è Nancy. Il nonno, in cambio dei documenti, concede alla nipote il riconoscimento e una somma di denaro, ma solo se troverà un marito nell’alta società. Nancy, però, non è una nobildonna, sua madre ormai defunta lo era, e per aiutarla il nonno l’affida alla nuora: la Viscontessa Delfarthing.
L’inizio della nuova avventura nell’alta società non parte nel migliore dei modi ma gli incontri tra Matt e Nancy continuano e tra i due ben presto sboccia un’amicizia e anche qualcos’altro. Diversi segreti oscuri e crudeli gravano però sulle spalle di Nancy, non sarà facile uscirne indenne, per non parlare di un nemico che la perseguita. L’amore può davvero vincere su tutto? Leggete il libro e lo scoprirete.
Se devo essere sincera, ho preferito di netto i personaggi secondari più che i principali, tra questi la zia di Nancy, che, anche se all’apparenza si dimostra dura e rigida, in verità ama la nipote, come se fosse sua figlia. Anche Lord Brompton, come dicevo, non è così snob e algido come sembra. Ho veramente adorato la famiglia di Matt, soprattutto le sue sorelle.
Assolutamente una bella lettura, la consiglio a pieni voti.
.
Care Fenici, ho letto molto volentieri Una pericolosa debuttante! Ho letto decisamente tanti Regency, forse troppi, ma questo in particolare è risultato, in qualche modo, fuori dal comune.
La trama è ben scritta, intricata al punto giusto, non al livello da stufare, l’autrice si è messa d’impegno per evitare personaggi noiosi e dare a tutti una personalità. Non è cosa da poco. Tra trama e narrazione fluida, questo libro è un bel gioiellino.
Detto ciò, passiamo ai personaggi.
Lord Matthew Stringham è il figlio cadetto di un duca, nato in una famiglia tutt’altro che convenzionale, dato che la madre, seppur duchessa, dirige una profumeria e crea personalmente i profumi per poi scegliere a chi regalarli e a chi venderli. Per non parlare dei nonni materni: borghesi e commercianti, quindi esclusi da tutto ciò che riguarda il Ton. Matthew potrebbe essere uno snob, e invece è un bravo ragazzo, un uomo che ha dei sogni da portare a termine, uno dei quali è trovare l’amore e formare una famiglia sua.
Vi parlo prima di lui poiché, se permettete, è strano trovare l’uomo che sogna l’amore in un Regency. Ma ora veniamo alla protagonista femminile: Nancy Black.
Nancy è una ladra cresciuta con il padre nei bassifondi, non si fa nessuno scrupolo nel rapinare le persone, scappare dalle guardie e mentire. Però sa combattere e anche piuttosto bene. Durante una rapina finita male, riesce a scappare portando con sé dei documenti importanti per l’esercito, ma purtroppo arriva troppo tardi per salvare la vita del padre, che trova morente nella stanza dove abitavano dopo essere stato aggredito. Decide allora di tentare la via del ricatto e appellarsi al nonno materno, che non ha mai visto.
Ma come si incastrano questi due personaggi totalmente agli antipodi? Proprio grazie al famoso nonno, che altri non è che Lord Brampton, segretario di Stato per la guerra e le colonie.
Può sembrare un maledetto vecchiaccio, snob, arrogante e insensibile ma, fidatevi, potrebbe sorprendervi.
Matthew e Nancy si incontrato proprio nella sede dove lavora Lord Brampton. Il primo per parlare di affari e la seconda per ricattarlo. Tra i due avviene una specie di colpo di fulmine, ma quella cauta è Nancy. Il nonno, in cambio dei documenti, concede alla nipote il riconoscimento e una somma di denaro, ma solo se troverà un marito nell’alta società. Nancy, però, non è una nobildonna, sua madre ormai defunta lo era, e per aiutarla il nonno l’affida alla nuora: la Viscontessa Delfarthing.
L’inizio della nuova avventura nell’alta società non parte nel migliore dei modi ma gli incontri tra Matt e Nancy continuano e tra i due ben presto sboccia un’amicizia e anche qualcos’altro. Diversi segreti oscuri e crudeli gravano però sulle spalle di Nancy, non sarà facile uscirne indenne, per non parlare di un nemico che la perseguita. L’amore può davvero vincere su tutto? Leggete il libro e lo scoprirete.
Se devo essere sincera, ho preferito di netto i personaggi secondari più che i principali, tra questi la zia di Nancy, che, anche se all’apparenza si dimostra dura e rigida, in verità ama la nipote, come se fosse sua figlia. Anche Lord Brompton, come dicevo, non è così snob e algido come sembra. Ho veramente adorato la famiglia di Matt, soprattutto le sue sorelle.
Assolutamente una bella lettura, la consiglio a pieni voti.
September 14, 2023
Definitely a good twist of a story. I enjoyed the twists and turns of how the characters connected!
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