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The Royal Saboteurs #3
Saved by the Belle
After successfully completing his first mission as a Royal Saboteur, Hew Arundel is in London on holiday. But his entertainments are cut short when he’s attacked in the street. When he wakes, he’s not only in pain but in an unfamiliar setting. He might be half-delirious, but he’s not imagining the smart-mouthed woman charged with his care. Belle isn’t a skilled nurse, but she’s smart and fearless, and Hew finds those two qualities irresistible. And dangerous. Hew’s heart has been damaged before, and he swore never again to allow a woman to breach his defenses. Belle doesn’t seem interested in him anyway…until they share a forbidden kiss.
Belle Howard was born with a specialized palate. She knows exquisite tea by scent and taste and has used that talent to turn her family’s business, Howard’s Teas & Treats, into one of the premiere tea shops in London. When circumstances force Belle and her father to care for an injured man, they aren’t sure the man will survive. They certainly don’t expect his would-be assassins to wreak havoc on their lives. Now Belle is caught up in a dangerous mission and even more treacherous is the way Hew Arundel makes Belle feel whenever he looks at her. But Belle has learned not to trust men. If only she could remember that when Hew takes her in his arms.
Belle Howard was born with a specialized palate. She knows exquisite tea by scent and taste and has used that talent to turn her family’s business, Howard’s Teas & Treats, into one of the premiere tea shops in London. When circumstances force Belle and her father to care for an injured man, they aren’t sure the man will survive. They certainly don’t expect his would-be assassins to wreak havoc on their lives. Now Belle is caught up in a dangerous mission and even more treacherous is the way Hew Arundel makes Belle feel whenever he looks at her. But Belle has learned not to trust men. If only she could remember that when Hew takes her in his arms.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2023
27 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Shana Galen
98 books1,547 followersShana Galen is three-time Rita award nominee and the bestselling author of fast-paced, witty, and adventurous Regency romances. Kirkus says of her books, "The road to happily-ever-after is intense, conflicted, suspenseful and fun," and RT Bookreviews calls her books “lighthearted yet poignant, humorous yet touching." She taught English at the middle and high school level off and on for eleven years. Most of those years were spent working in Houston's inner city. Now she writes full time. She's happily married and has a daughter who is most definitely a romance heroine in the making.
Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com and sign up to be notified when Shana has a new release http://bit.ly/ShanaGalenNews
Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com and sign up to be notified when Shana has a new release http://bit.ly/ShanaGalenNews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 1, 2023
Hew Arundel is enjoying a much needed holiday in London after the successful completion of his first mission for the Royal Saboteurs. Unfortunately, his relaxation time is curtailed when he is stabbed outside his friend’s door. When he awakens disoriented and in an unfamiliar room, he knows, despite the fog of pain, that he’s not imagining the sharp tongued woman caring for him. Belle isn’t that great at nursing, but she is intelligent and not scared of anything, making her irresistible to Hew. This makes her dangerous since Hew has vowed to never again allow a woman anywhere near his heart. It shouldn’t be too difficult as Belle doesn’t seem to notice him in that way, until she does.
Belle knows everything about tea and has used her talent to expand the clientele of her family’s tea shop. When she and her father are saddled with the care of an injured man, she is less than thrilled with the prospect, especially since the man is not expected to live. Unfortunately, this is just the beginning as all three of their lives are upended by would-be assassins and Belle winds up right in the middle of Hew’s increasingly dangerous mission. Even more dangerous are her growing feelings for him. Despite having learned that men aren’t trustworthy, she can’t seem to remember that when she’s with Hew.
Though there is much focus on the more actiony aspects of this book (Hew’s mission, his attackers, etc.), this merely serves to heighten the stakes on a personal level between him and Belle. Their time together is limited and they are both under immense strain, not to mention the forced proximity of Belle tending to Hew’s injury, though she is an admittedly terrible nurse. Belle was rather abrasive and at times even rude, but her sharpness and stubbornness were needed to make Hew open up and acknowledge both his new feelings for Belle and the reality of how mistaken he had been in his feelings for his late wife. Hew had to overcome some serious trust issues to open himself up to the idea of marrying again and I don’t think anything short of a brash woman like Belle demanding it of him would’ve sufficed. She had her own issues to overcome, having convinced herself that no man would ever genuinely care for her because of her facial scars. Her closed-off attitude and initial reluctance to accept the barest of niceties from Hew gave this a bit of a Beauty and the Beast vibe for me and added some nuance to the story. I enjoyed the exploration of class differences here and, though Belle did have to grow on me a bit, I liked that she knew what she wanted and went for it. Hew and Belle made for a quirky but charming pairing, and I look forward to other installments in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Belle knows everything about tea and has used her talent to expand the clientele of her family’s tea shop. When she and her father are saddled with the care of an injured man, she is less than thrilled with the prospect, especially since the man is not expected to live. Unfortunately, this is just the beginning as all three of their lives are upended by would-be assassins and Belle winds up right in the middle of Hew’s increasingly dangerous mission. Even more dangerous are her growing feelings for him. Despite having learned that men aren’t trustworthy, she can’t seem to remember that when she’s with Hew.
Though there is much focus on the more actiony aspects of this book (Hew’s mission, his attackers, etc.), this merely serves to heighten the stakes on a personal level between him and Belle. Their time together is limited and they are both under immense strain, not to mention the forced proximity of Belle tending to Hew’s injury, though she is an admittedly terrible nurse. Belle was rather abrasive and at times even rude, but her sharpness and stubbornness were needed to make Hew open up and acknowledge both his new feelings for Belle and the reality of how mistaken he had been in his feelings for his late wife. Hew had to overcome some serious trust issues to open himself up to the idea of marrying again and I don’t think anything short of a brash woman like Belle demanding it of him would’ve sufficed. She had her own issues to overcome, having convinced herself that no man would ever genuinely care for her because of her facial scars. Her closed-off attitude and initial reluctance to accept the barest of niceties from Hew gave this a bit of a Beauty and the Beast vibe for me and added some nuance to the story. I enjoyed the exploration of class differences here and, though Belle did have to grow on me a bit, I liked that she knew what she wanted and went for it. Hew and Belle made for a quirky but charming pairing, and I look forward to other installments in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
March 7, 2023
I love Shana Galen's books. Why? Because I can get lost in them and forget I have other things to do.
March 8, 2023
Shana Galen is a magical writer that weaves stories that enthrall the reader. The Royal Saboteurs series follows the exploits of a select group of agents for the crown. Hew Arundale is a legacy agent who loves his work. Belle Howard runs a tea shop with her father and is a feisty and wonderful character. The two are thrown together unceremoniously and sparks fly. In the pursuit of a case, while the author takes us on a great chase, the two grow close. The romance blossoms as the case gets solved. This is definitely a must buy to add to your collection.
February 5, 2023
4.5-5 Stars! Shana Galen has done it yet again my fellow reader! I seriously read this book in 2 days, it was such a great book! This whole series is great! This is the 3rd book in the ‘Royal Saboteurs’ series and can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the whole series. The main characters are Belle & Hew. Belle has scars on her face from surviving small pox as a kid and she was bullied all her life for them and now works in her fathers tea shop, a 25 year old, unmarried spinster.
Hew works with the Royal Saboteurs as a spy and he had a wife that betrayed him and now he doesn’t trust women. He gets injured and needs to be taken care of and Belle & her father step in. A few twists here and there and it was quite an exciting and enjoyable read, all ending with the HEA we all hope for. I definitely recommend this series. You really can’t go wrong with a Shana Galen read!
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
Hew works with the Royal Saboteurs as a spy and he had a wife that betrayed him and now he doesn’t trust women. He gets injured and needs to be taken care of and Belle & her father step in. A few twists here and there and it was quite an exciting and enjoyable read, all ending with the HEA we all hope for. I definitely recommend this series. You really can’t go wrong with a Shana Galen read!
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
March 24, 2023
Disappointing
As a Galen fan who has read all her work, this one was not up to her usual standards. And I was so looking forward to its release.
There's none of the witty repartee, intriguing story and lovable supporting characters that make Galen novels great. The plot line was tangential and boring, with some of the main aspects and players in the sabotage ever directly interacting with the main characters.
And the detailed and repeated discussions of tea seemed forced and irritating to a reader.
The characters are poorly developed without much depth, which makes them hard to like and connect with. The heroine swings between being deeply insecure and naive (no one will ever love me) to strangely brash and confident (you will beg me to marry you). It was hard to understand her character. I found her unlikable. The hero was very underdeveloped as a character.
The passion scenes are few and boring.
As a Galen fan who has read all her work, this one was not up to her usual standards. And I was so looking forward to its release.
There's none of the witty repartee, intriguing story and lovable supporting characters that make Galen novels great. The plot line was tangential and boring, with some of the main aspects and players in the sabotage ever directly interacting with the main characters.
And the detailed and repeated discussions of tea seemed forced and irritating to a reader.
The characters are poorly developed without much depth, which makes them hard to like and connect with. The heroine swings between being deeply insecure and naive (no one will ever love me) to strangely brash and confident (you will beg me to marry you). It was hard to understand her character. I found her unlikable. The hero was very underdeveloped as a character.
The passion scenes are few and boring.
February 22, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars
Series: The Royal Saboteurs #3
Publication Date: 3/7/23
Period: Victorian London
Number of Pages: 317
This well-paced, excellently-written story is filled with wonderful characters you’ll want to meet and sit down to tea with. Not only are our main characters outstanding, but so are our secondary characters – especially Belle’s father – George. You’ll love him and how he deals with Hew.
Isabelle (Belle) Howard isn’t a big fan of the male gender – other than her father and perhaps (only perhaps) her brother-in-law). As a very young girl Belle survived smallpox and which left her with one side of her face severely scarred with pockmarks. She’s always been self-conscious about it – mostly because of the teasing and unkind remarks made by everyone who meets her – even those who believe they are being kind. The worst of it has been the boys – and then young men – who pretended to like her and then scorned her. No, she’d never marry – not that she wouldn’t like it – she is just aware that none of them could get past her scars to see the real her. Marriage just won’t be for her, but she has the best nose for teas anyone has ever seen – and she seems to have a magic ability to choose the exact right tea for everyone she meets. Yes, her future will be in managing Howard’s Teas and Treats.
Hew Arundel is an agent for the Crown as a member of the elite Royal Saboteurs. He has spent a very long time at their secret training camp called The Farm. He trained in every possible discipline and has finally just completed his first mission – successfully too! Now, he’s in London taking a bit of a rest and catching up with some friends before he heads back to The Farm to wrap up all of the paperwork on his mission. Hew has just finished a lovely meal with his good friend Randall and his lovely wife and is taking his leave when two things happen. First, Hew was struck down in an attack that may prove fatal, and second, Randall’s wife appears on the steps to announce she’s gone into labor. Poor Hew, he can’t even die in peace.
Randall panics and doesn’t know what to do first. Of course, his first loyalty is to his wife – but, Hew is probably dying. He cannot handle it all and asks the Howards to whom he is related by marriage, to care for Hew at their place. The Howards agree to take Hew in and nurse him, but their rooms above the tea shop are very small. Belle doesn’t want to take in the stranger, she doesn’t want him to die above their tea shop because that would upset customers. She doesn’t have a tender bone in her body and certainly not one for nursing a stranger the physician is going to die anyway.
I loved watching Hew and Belle tumble down each other’s barriers. Hew is at death’s door, delirious with fever, but he has enough of his facilities to know that his attack must have something to do with his previous mission – and that he has brought danger to the Howard’s door. He’ll do all he can to protect them from harm – but he absolutely cannot fall in love with Belle. He was hurt once and will not be hurt again.
One of the things I loved about both Hew and Bell is their maturity. Both were very intelligent, both were confident in themselves and their abilities, and they were both willing to listen and discuss things. She wasn’t someone who had to have everything her own way at the expense of everyone else. However, the best thing I loved about either of them was that Hew could ‘see’ Belle. He really hadn’t noticed her scars – just the way she always turned that side away or dipped her head.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and now I can’t wait for the next one. While this book is part of a series, and there is an overarching ‘group’ in the series, the individual books can be read as a standalone. Of course, I don’t understand why you wouldn’t want to read the whole series, but you honestly don’t have to. This author’s books are witty, romantic, exciting, and filled with wonderful characters you’d want to call a friend. I hope you will give this book a read and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: The Royal Saboteurs #3
Publication Date: 3/7/23
Period: Victorian London
Number of Pages: 317
This well-paced, excellently-written story is filled with wonderful characters you’ll want to meet and sit down to tea with. Not only are our main characters outstanding, but so are our secondary characters – especially Belle’s father – George. You’ll love him and how he deals with Hew.
Isabelle (Belle) Howard isn’t a big fan of the male gender – other than her father and perhaps (only perhaps) her brother-in-law). As a very young girl Belle survived smallpox and which left her with one side of her face severely scarred with pockmarks. She’s always been self-conscious about it – mostly because of the teasing and unkind remarks made by everyone who meets her – even those who believe they are being kind. The worst of it has been the boys – and then young men – who pretended to like her and then scorned her. No, she’d never marry – not that she wouldn’t like it – she is just aware that none of them could get past her scars to see the real her. Marriage just won’t be for her, but she has the best nose for teas anyone has ever seen – and she seems to have a magic ability to choose the exact right tea for everyone she meets. Yes, her future will be in managing Howard’s Teas and Treats.
Hew Arundel is an agent for the Crown as a member of the elite Royal Saboteurs. He has spent a very long time at their secret training camp called The Farm. He trained in every possible discipline and has finally just completed his first mission – successfully too! Now, he’s in London taking a bit of a rest and catching up with some friends before he heads back to The Farm to wrap up all of the paperwork on his mission. Hew has just finished a lovely meal with his good friend Randall and his lovely wife and is taking his leave when two things happen. First, Hew was struck down in an attack that may prove fatal, and second, Randall’s wife appears on the steps to announce she’s gone into labor. Poor Hew, he can’t even die in peace.
Randall panics and doesn’t know what to do first. Of course, his first loyalty is to his wife – but, Hew is probably dying. He cannot handle it all and asks the Howards to whom he is related by marriage, to care for Hew at their place. The Howards agree to take Hew in and nurse him, but their rooms above the tea shop are very small. Belle doesn’t want to take in the stranger, she doesn’t want him to die above their tea shop because that would upset customers. She doesn’t have a tender bone in her body and certainly not one for nursing a stranger the physician is going to die anyway.
I loved watching Hew and Belle tumble down each other’s barriers. Hew is at death’s door, delirious with fever, but he has enough of his facilities to know that his attack must have something to do with his previous mission – and that he has brought danger to the Howard’s door. He’ll do all he can to protect them from harm – but he absolutely cannot fall in love with Belle. He was hurt once and will not be hurt again.
One of the things I loved about both Hew and Bell is their maturity. Both were very intelligent, both were confident in themselves and their abilities, and they were both willing to listen and discuss things. She wasn’t someone who had to have everything her own way at the expense of everyone else. However, the best thing I loved about either of them was that Hew could ‘see’ Belle. He really hadn’t noticed her scars – just the way she always turned that side away or dipped her head.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and now I can’t wait for the next one. While this book is part of a series, and there is an overarching ‘group’ in the series, the individual books can be read as a standalone. Of course, I don’t understand why you wouldn’t want to read the whole series, but you honestly don’t have to. This author’s books are witty, romantic, exciting, and filled with wonderful characters you’d want to call a friend. I hope you will give this book a read and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 13, 2023
🍵 Saved by the Belle 🗡️
The Royal Saboteurs Book 3
✒️ Shana Galen
https://www.facebook.com/ShanaGalen/
Release Date 03/07/2023
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BLTHBDTD?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
After successfully completing his first mission as a Royal Saboteur, Hew Arundel is in London on holiday. But his entertainments are cut short when he’s attacked in the street. When he wakes, he’s not only in pain but in an unfamiliar setting. He might be half-delirious, but he’s not imagining the smart-mouthed woman charged with his care. Belle isn’t a skilled nurse, but she’s smart and fearless, and Hew finds those two qualities irresistible. And dangerous. Hew’s heart has been damaged before, and he swore never again to allow a woman to breach his defenses. Belle doesn’t seem interested in him anyway…until they share a forbidden kiss. Belle Howard was born with a specialized palate. She knows exquisite tea by scent and taste and has used that talent to turn her family’s business, Howard’s Teas & Treats, into one of the premiere tea shops in London. When circumstances force Belle and her father to care for an injured man, they aren’t sure the man will survive. They certainly don’t expect his would-be assassins to wreak havoc on their lives. Now Belle is caught up in a dangerous mission and even more treacherous is the way Hew Arundel makes Belle feel whenever he looks at her. But Belle has learned not to trust men. If only she could remember that when Hew takes her in his arms.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will the threat to his life harm more than himself…
I love how from one group of people with a common purpose the author gives them all different backgrounds, peculiar talents and a mission to apply them.
Hew Arundel is the bitter man, the one damaged by a previous romantic experience, shaping him the distrustful fellow he is now. Since he doubts every woman’s words, unable to erase the feeling, they are not to trust.
Belle is a woman who has done good for her family, burying her true passion under determination and hard work and let consciousness of her scarred face damage her self-worth.
They meet under the most unexpected circumstances, an unlikely first encounter that lead to a surprising sort of friendship as they are forced to spend time together.
The spy sees who is hiding under Bella’s tough exterior, he hears her beyond her words when her strength and resilience pierce through the hard shell of his heart, even if he fights the pull he feels for the prickly Miss.
“If I kiss you,” she said, “would that make me a terrible nurse?” He grinned. “You’re already a terrible nurse. I’d much rather you kiss me than tend me.”
They form then an uncommon team when threats are made and lives endangered. Yet Arundel’s training and Belle’s common sense complement each other well, and when their heart come to be engaged, whose stubbornness will last the longest.
An delightful tasty read with an unconventional duet.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays and lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Conmxp...
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The Royal Saboteurs Book 3
✒️ Shana Galen
https://www.facebook.com/ShanaGalen/
Release Date 03/07/2023
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BLTHBDTD?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
After successfully completing his first mission as a Royal Saboteur, Hew Arundel is in London on holiday. But his entertainments are cut short when he’s attacked in the street. When he wakes, he’s not only in pain but in an unfamiliar setting. He might be half-delirious, but he’s not imagining the smart-mouthed woman charged with his care. Belle isn’t a skilled nurse, but she’s smart and fearless, and Hew finds those two qualities irresistible. And dangerous. Hew’s heart has been damaged before, and he swore never again to allow a woman to breach his defenses. Belle doesn’t seem interested in him anyway…until they share a forbidden kiss. Belle Howard was born with a specialized palate. She knows exquisite tea by scent and taste and has used that talent to turn her family’s business, Howard’s Teas & Treats, into one of the premiere tea shops in London. When circumstances force Belle and her father to care for an injured man, they aren’t sure the man will survive. They certainly don’t expect his would-be assassins to wreak havoc on their lives. Now Belle is caught up in a dangerous mission and even more treacherous is the way Hew Arundel makes Belle feel whenever he looks at her. But Belle has learned not to trust men. If only she could remember that when Hew takes her in his arms.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will the threat to his life harm more than himself…
I love how from one group of people with a common purpose the author gives them all different backgrounds, peculiar talents and a mission to apply them.
Hew Arundel is the bitter man, the one damaged by a previous romantic experience, shaping him the distrustful fellow he is now. Since he doubts every woman’s words, unable to erase the feeling, they are not to trust.
Belle is a woman who has done good for her family, burying her true passion under determination and hard work and let consciousness of her scarred face damage her self-worth.
They meet under the most unexpected circumstances, an unlikely first encounter that lead to a surprising sort of friendship as they are forced to spend time together.
The spy sees who is hiding under Bella’s tough exterior, he hears her beyond her words when her strength and resilience pierce through the hard shell of his heart, even if he fights the pull he feels for the prickly Miss.
“If I kiss you,” she said, “would that make me a terrible nurse?” He grinned. “You’re already a terrible nurse. I’d much rather you kiss me than tend me.”
They form then an uncommon team when threats are made and lives endangered. Yet Arundel’s training and Belle’s common sense complement each other well, and when their heart come to be engaged, whose stubbornness will last the longest.
An delightful tasty read with an unconventional duet.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays and lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Conmxp...
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?stor...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2023read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #shanagalen #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
February 27, 2023
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Fresh off his first mission with the Royal Saboteurs, Hew Arundel is enjoying a visit with his friend Charles Randall and Charles’ very pregnant wife Lydia. He enjoys dinner with them and then insists on leaving early, as it is clear that Lydia is not feeling her best, Hew is looking forward to a quiet night, but while waiting for a hackney, he is attacked and stabbed, just as Lydia calls to Charles that she has gone into labor. A doctor is called, but Charles knows he can’t tend to both Hew and Lydia, so he makes a desperate plea to George Howard for help. With Hew’s family out of town, Charles has limited options, Mr. Howard’s youngest daughter is married to Lydia’s brother so he is family and someone he can trust to care for his friend.
Isabelle “Belle” Howard and her father are surprised when they get a message from Charles asking them to come immediately, they barely know the Randalls, but they close up their tea shop and rush over. They are shocked to learn that Charles needs them to care for his friend, who according to the doctor, might not survive the night. Belle is annoyed, but they agree to take him in, she is then shocked by her immediate attraction to him. Belle survived smallpox as a child and is scarred, something she is very self-conscious about and something that has caused her pain in the past. She is sure no man would ever want her, not only is she scarred, but she is bold, outspoken, and doesn’t suffer fools. They nurse Hew and by some miracle, he survives. She is annoyed that she finds him even more attractive and charming now that he is awake, but she is sure that he would never want a girl like her. Little does she know that her scars don’t bother Hew and he likes her spitfire attitude, but Hew has been burned once and refuses to risk his heart again. They try to ignore their attraction, knowing it can go nowhere as they will soon part. But when it is clear that the attack on Hew wasn’t random and now Belle and her father are in danger, Hew knows that he will do anything to keep Belle safe. But Hew will soon learn, Belle is not like any woman he has ever known and she is not willing to wait to be rescued nor will she let ghosts from the past steal her happiness.
This is a well-written, nicely-paced adventure featuring two very flawed, yet likable characters. Hew and Belle are clearly perfect for each other, but they both let past hurts cloud their judgment and Hew just can’t seem to let his past go. I understood his reasons, but he just held on to it way too long. As usual, this author treats readers to an engaging story filled with action, witty banter, steamyish love scenes, great secondary characters, danger, spies, tea, and a sweet declaration scene leading to their HEA. This is the third book in the series, but there is enough backstory given that you could easily read this as a standalone title. I loved Belle and Hew’s story and I am happy to recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Fresh off his first mission with the Royal Saboteurs, Hew Arundel is enjoying a visit with his friend Charles Randall and Charles’ very pregnant wife Lydia. He enjoys dinner with them and then insists on leaving early, as it is clear that Lydia is not feeling her best, Hew is looking forward to a quiet night, but while waiting for a hackney, he is attacked and stabbed, just as Lydia calls to Charles that she has gone into labor. A doctor is called, but Charles knows he can’t tend to both Hew and Lydia, so he makes a desperate plea to George Howard for help. With Hew’s family out of town, Charles has limited options, Mr. Howard’s youngest daughter is married to Lydia’s brother so he is family and someone he can trust to care for his friend.
Isabelle “Belle” Howard and her father are surprised when they get a message from Charles asking them to come immediately, they barely know the Randalls, but they close up their tea shop and rush over. They are shocked to learn that Charles needs them to care for his friend, who according to the doctor, might not survive the night. Belle is annoyed, but they agree to take him in, she is then shocked by her immediate attraction to him. Belle survived smallpox as a child and is scarred, something she is very self-conscious about and something that has caused her pain in the past. She is sure no man would ever want her, not only is she scarred, but she is bold, outspoken, and doesn’t suffer fools. They nurse Hew and by some miracle, he survives. She is annoyed that she finds him even more attractive and charming now that he is awake, but she is sure that he would never want a girl like her. Little does she know that her scars don’t bother Hew and he likes her spitfire attitude, but Hew has been burned once and refuses to risk his heart again. They try to ignore their attraction, knowing it can go nowhere as they will soon part. But when it is clear that the attack on Hew wasn’t random and now Belle and her father are in danger, Hew knows that he will do anything to keep Belle safe. But Hew will soon learn, Belle is not like any woman he has ever known and she is not willing to wait to be rescued nor will she let ghosts from the past steal her happiness.
This is a well-written, nicely-paced adventure featuring two very flawed, yet likable characters. Hew and Belle are clearly perfect for each other, but they both let past hurts cloud their judgment and Hew just can’t seem to let his past go. I understood his reasons, but he just held on to it way too long. As usual, this author treats readers to an engaging story filled with action, witty banter, steamyish love scenes, great secondary characters, danger, spies, tea, and a sweet declaration scene leading to their HEA. This is the third book in the series, but there is enough backstory given that you could easily read this as a standalone title. I loved Belle and Hew’s story and I am happy to recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
January 24, 2024
wow, wow, wow.... i don't what to say, i'm a huge Galen fan but this book was awful. This books had problems from its very inception, first the cover that fans had a negative reaction to and ended up getting changed later and it seems Galen really struggled with this one. As a matter of face this book is so bad I'm not fully convinced a ghost writer didn't write this one for her....
So lets start... the hero is pretty much bedridden for this entire book. the first solid 50% he's completely bedridden and after that he's like partially bedridden. this whole book is just a bottle episode just contained in bedrooms.... AND NOTHING HAPPENS. Even bigger issue with the hero, he's so underdeveloped, he doesn't do much, he isn't funny, and nothing really interesting happens with him. We don't even really know him, he's like grandson of duke, a workaholic, and supposed to be a good spy/agent.... yet we see none of that. dude just stuck in a bed, so we'll take his word on it i guess...
than you got the heroine who is an inconsistent mess, she's introduced as kind of being shy and insecure due to scarring on her face, but that's right out the window like 2 chapters in as she seems very confident in herself. she's so damn prickly too, gotta walk on eggshells around this girl. she likes to fight about everything and when she's not fighting about everything she's oogling an unconcious man. i really did not like the herione. Then she meets the hero's mom while practically naked and like "who cares" about it.... in Victorian Era England... oh and lets not forget this working class shop keeper girl who has never left her shop is also smarter than the two highly educated spies... okay.
and the plot... what plot? whole story just takes place in bedrooms. starts off in heroine's bedroom, moves to another person's bedroom, and then we end up in a hotel bedroom... exciting stuff. so we have no plot and no witty banter to make up for it.
And the sex... what sex? Galen usually writes some spicy scenes and she usually sprinkles them throughout the book, but once again got whole 94k NOVEL here and nothing happening. There's like no sexual tension or chemestry between these two characters either. I know Galen can do some good sexual tension, have you read Lord and Lady Spy? that book is on fire... so I don't know what happened here. There is only one sex scene and it's not very sexy at all, 94k words and only 1 sex scene, let that sink in for a minute.
so overall, not a lot going on and just not well written... the biggest highlight was getting to see Will from book 2 again (and seeing him was amazing as he doesn't seem to like heroine much in it, lol). I love Galen and will continue reading her books of course, but wow i don't know what happened with this one. definitely feels like a "I am contractually obligated to write this" kind of book.
So lets start... the hero is pretty much bedridden for this entire book. the first solid 50% he's completely bedridden and after that he's like partially bedridden. this whole book is just a bottle episode just contained in bedrooms.... AND NOTHING HAPPENS. Even bigger issue with the hero, he's so underdeveloped, he doesn't do much, he isn't funny, and nothing really interesting happens with him. We don't even really know him, he's like grandson of duke, a workaholic, and supposed to be a good spy/agent.... yet we see none of that. dude just stuck in a bed, so we'll take his word on it i guess...
than you got the heroine who is an inconsistent mess, she's introduced as kind of being shy and insecure due to scarring on her face, but that's right out the window like 2 chapters in as she seems very confident in herself. she's so damn prickly too, gotta walk on eggshells around this girl. she likes to fight about everything and when she's not fighting about everything she's oogling an unconcious man. i really did not like the herione. Then she meets the hero's mom while practically naked and like "who cares" about it.... in Victorian Era England... oh and lets not forget this working class shop keeper girl who has never left her shop is also smarter than the two highly educated spies... okay.
and the plot... what plot? whole story just takes place in bedrooms. starts off in heroine's bedroom, moves to another person's bedroom, and then we end up in a hotel bedroom... exciting stuff. so we have no plot and no witty banter to make up for it.
And the sex... what sex? Galen usually writes some spicy scenes and she usually sprinkles them throughout the book, but once again got whole 94k NOVEL here and nothing happening. There's like no sexual tension or chemestry between these two characters either. I know Galen can do some good sexual tension, have you read Lord and Lady Spy? that book is on fire... so I don't know what happened here. There is only one sex scene and it's not very sexy at all, 94k words and only 1 sex scene, let that sink in for a minute.
so overall, not a lot going on and just not well written... the biggest highlight was getting to see Will from book 2 again (and seeing him was amazing as he doesn't seem to like heroine much in it, lol). I love Galen and will continue reading her books of course, but wow i don't know what happened with this one. definitely feels like a "I am contractually obligated to write this" kind of book.
March 9, 2023
The Royal Saboteurs, the latest series by Shana Galen, has been, in my opinion, her best series to date. The characters are solid, complex and likable. and the dialog is engaging and witty. The historical details are thoroughly researched and the plots are fast paced, believable, and contain enough twists and turns to hold your interest straight through to the satisfying HEA. You can’t go wrong with a Shana Galen novel, and that includes the third and latest entry to the series, Saved by the Belle, which meets all of the above criteria and more!
Hew Arundel, the newest member of the Royal Saboteurs, an elite spy organization whose sole purpose is to protect the Crown, has just completed his first mission. He is in London taking a break before his next mission when he is attacked in the street and stabbed. Unconscious and near death, he is taken by a friend to a local tea shop where he is cared for by the owner’s daughter, Belle, in an upstairs apartment. In spite of being out-spoken and sometimes rude, he finds her to also be kind, intelligent and determined. She is just the type of woman he could fall for if he hadn’t sworn off love after being hurt in an earlier marriage.
Belle Howard has also been hurt by the opposite sex, and she is not looking for a relationship. Her face was left with pock marks after a childhood bout with smallpox, and she has endured years of teasing and cruel remarks by men. She is 25 and doesn’t feel that she will ever find a man that she could trust to see through the scars on her face and love her for who she is. She is blessed with the ability to discern the difference between all kinds of teas, and she is content to work in her family’s tea shop. Her world, however, is turned upside down, when Hew is brought to her shop. Not only is she attracted to the handsome stranger, but she quickly finds herself in the middle of his mission and in serious danger.
I was pleased to see that the author explains the Royal Saboteurs in the first chapter.
This makes it very easy to read Saved by the Belle as a standalone novel, but I strongly suggest that you read the first two books also just for the enjoyment! I was also pleased to see a previous Saboteur brought back into this story. It gives the series continuity.
Another great effort Ms. Galen! When does #4 come out??
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and all of the opinions expressed here are honest and my own.
Hew Arundel, the newest member of the Royal Saboteurs, an elite spy organization whose sole purpose is to protect the Crown, has just completed his first mission. He is in London taking a break before his next mission when he is attacked in the street and stabbed. Unconscious and near death, he is taken by a friend to a local tea shop where he is cared for by the owner’s daughter, Belle, in an upstairs apartment. In spite of being out-spoken and sometimes rude, he finds her to also be kind, intelligent and determined. She is just the type of woman he could fall for if he hadn’t sworn off love after being hurt in an earlier marriage.
Belle Howard has also been hurt by the opposite sex, and she is not looking for a relationship. Her face was left with pock marks after a childhood bout with smallpox, and she has endured years of teasing and cruel remarks by men. She is 25 and doesn’t feel that she will ever find a man that she could trust to see through the scars on her face and love her for who she is. She is blessed with the ability to discern the difference between all kinds of teas, and she is content to work in her family’s tea shop. Her world, however, is turned upside down, when Hew is brought to her shop. Not only is she attracted to the handsome stranger, but she quickly finds herself in the middle of his mission and in serious danger.
I was pleased to see that the author explains the Royal Saboteurs in the first chapter.
This makes it very easy to read Saved by the Belle as a standalone novel, but I strongly suggest that you read the first two books also just for the enjoyment! I was also pleased to see a previous Saboteur brought back into this story. It gives the series continuity.
Another great effort Ms. Galen! When does #4 come out??
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and all of the opinions expressed here are honest and my own.
April 3, 2023
This is the third entry in the series, but it works as a stand alone read. Each book tells a separate story of someone who works to protect Queen and country, their dangerous adventures and finding love.
Ms Galen has created a terrific series. Her characters are courageous, brave and humorous. Her plots move along at a good pace. In short, these are good books.
Hew is a member of the Royal Saboteurs. He has just finished a mission and now is ready for a well deserved leave. As he is leaving the home of a good friend, Hew is attacked and stabbed. Because the friend is not in a position to provide care for his recovery, Hew is sent to a relative.
Isabelle (Belle) and her father own and run a tea shop. Hew is brought to the shop as a safe place for him to recover. The doctor does not believe he will live. But, the shop is as good a place as any for him to die.
Belle and her father do their best to help Hew. But, because the assassins have followed, there is another attempt on Hew’s life. This time Belle, her father and the shop are attacked as well.
Hew is a heroic figure. He is intelligent and brave and trained to reason out solutions. His injury is very severe and at first it appears he may not live, but slowly he begins to become stronger.
Belle is a very intelligent woman. Because she has facial scars from a childhood illness, she has been teased and humiliated. She believes she will never deserve to be loved. She has devoted her life to buying the best teas possible and making the shop a success. She also has a talent for selecting the perfect tea for every customer.
Belle has lived her life as a part of the shop and she has little time or desire to take care of some stranger. In fact, for me, in the first part of the book, I was not a fan. She seemed like a very cold hearted person. But, her attitude was based on the hurtful treatment she had received since she was a child. She had a hard shell but a very soft center.
Belle and Hew make a good team. She is able to help him figure out the next steps in their investigation. She also is as brave as Hew and ready to stand up to any enemy.
I enjoyed this book as the best of the series so far. Ms Galen does not disappoint.
Ms Galen has created a terrific series. Her characters are courageous, brave and humorous. Her plots move along at a good pace. In short, these are good books.
Hew is a member of the Royal Saboteurs. He has just finished a mission and now is ready for a well deserved leave. As he is leaving the home of a good friend, Hew is attacked and stabbed. Because the friend is not in a position to provide care for his recovery, Hew is sent to a relative.
Isabelle (Belle) and her father own and run a tea shop. Hew is brought to the shop as a safe place for him to recover. The doctor does not believe he will live. But, the shop is as good a place as any for him to die.
Belle and her father do their best to help Hew. But, because the assassins have followed, there is another attempt on Hew’s life. This time Belle, her father and the shop are attacked as well.
Hew is a heroic figure. He is intelligent and brave and trained to reason out solutions. His injury is very severe and at first it appears he may not live, but slowly he begins to become stronger.
Belle is a very intelligent woman. Because she has facial scars from a childhood illness, she has been teased and humiliated. She believes she will never deserve to be loved. She has devoted her life to buying the best teas possible and making the shop a success. She also has a talent for selecting the perfect tea for every customer.
Belle has lived her life as a part of the shop and she has little time or desire to take care of some stranger. In fact, for me, in the first part of the book, I was not a fan. She seemed like a very cold hearted person. But, her attitude was based on the hurtful treatment she had received since she was a child. She had a hard shell but a very soft center.
Belle and Hew make a good team. She is able to help him figure out the next steps in their investigation. She also is as brave as Hew and ready to stand up to any enemy.
I enjoyed this book as the best of the series so far. Ms Galen does not disappoint.
March 13, 2023
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of Shana Galen’s Saved by the Belle and the views expressed are my honest opinions. This is the third book in the Royal Saboteurs series.
After completing his first mission, Hew Arundel hies off to London for a few days of leisure meeting friends and updating his wardrobe. While leaving the Randalls’ house after an enjoyable meal, he is stabbed. With the shock of the attack, Mrs Randall goes onto early labour, thus Hew is taken to Howard’s Teas and Treats to convalesce away from the soon-to-be household of a newborn.
Miss Isabelle Howard, Belle to family and close friends, and her father were summoned to the Randall’s household and entrusted Hew to their care in the Howards’ small flat above the shop. With the fever setting in, Belle finds it difficult to believe Hew’s delirious comments about her beauty, even more so due to the pockmarks blemishing her face due to smallpox. Having grown up ridiculed about her face, Belle believes Hew to be simply another Lothario.
With Hew’s attackers closing in on the Howards and Hew, the trio attempt to go into hiding whilst awaiting help. However, the attackers attempt to burn down the Howards’ shop and residence. With help arriving from an unlikely ally, Hew and Belle leave Mr Howard with a neighbour but he ends going missing after a few days. Sparks fly between Belle and Hew but will they manage to work around their fiery spirits to save Mr Howard or will Hew’s lack of trust in the female species cause a chasm between us that cannot be overcome?
Yet again, Shana Galen re-introduces several familiar characters from the Barbican group, directly and indirectly. She also drops little titbits in preparation of the next book in the series. Saved by the Belle was a very interesting book to read, with its fast paces action keeping the readers stuck to the book until the very end. Ms Galen’s characters are larger than life, especially the two opposite gossipmongering neighbours of the Howards who bicker like children unless united for a cause. I also admit that I ended looking up the different teas which were mentioned. Highly recommended book!
After completing his first mission, Hew Arundel hies off to London for a few days of leisure meeting friends and updating his wardrobe. While leaving the Randalls’ house after an enjoyable meal, he is stabbed. With the shock of the attack, Mrs Randall goes onto early labour, thus Hew is taken to Howard’s Teas and Treats to convalesce away from the soon-to-be household of a newborn.
Miss Isabelle Howard, Belle to family and close friends, and her father were summoned to the Randall’s household and entrusted Hew to their care in the Howards’ small flat above the shop. With the fever setting in, Belle finds it difficult to believe Hew’s delirious comments about her beauty, even more so due to the pockmarks blemishing her face due to smallpox. Having grown up ridiculed about her face, Belle believes Hew to be simply another Lothario.
With Hew’s attackers closing in on the Howards and Hew, the trio attempt to go into hiding whilst awaiting help. However, the attackers attempt to burn down the Howards’ shop and residence. With help arriving from an unlikely ally, Hew and Belle leave Mr Howard with a neighbour but he ends going missing after a few days. Sparks fly between Belle and Hew but will they manage to work around their fiery spirits to save Mr Howard or will Hew’s lack of trust in the female species cause a chasm between us that cannot be overcome?
Yet again, Shana Galen re-introduces several familiar characters from the Barbican group, directly and indirectly. She also drops little titbits in preparation of the next book in the series. Saved by the Belle was a very interesting book to read, with its fast paces action keeping the readers stuck to the book until the very end. Ms Galen’s characters are larger than life, especially the two opposite gossipmongering neighbours of the Howards who bicker like children unless united for a cause. I also admit that I ended looking up the different teas which were mentioned. Highly recommended book!
March 5, 2023
I gobbled up this book! We've been introduced to The Royal Saboteurs in the previous stories. This is Hew Arundel's story of going on holiday after a successful mission. Unfortunately the mission follows him to London and he's shot by a mystery man leaving an event. He's badly hurt and his friend Charles Randall takes him home and summons a doctor. His wife Lydia goes into labor at the same time. Randall sends him off to a family relation George Howard who owns Howards Teas and Treats. George's 24 year old daughter Belle helps care for him. The relationship between Belle and Hew was a delight to see develop. There is a social divide between these two as his family is landed gentry and she's in trade, a dirty word in society's elite. She also seems to be saving him for danger or injury on more than one occasion. Humbling for a man in the spy trade. This was fun.
Hew Arundel was a diplomat and married at one time. It was an arranged marriage and his wife did not suit the diplomatic life. She eventually found a lover and left him, dying in childbirth with the lover's child. Hew swore he'd never trust a woman again and keeps them at arms length. That proves to be difficult when he meets Belle. She nurses him back to health and ends up helping him figure out who's trying to kill him. They spend a lot of one on one time together. She's 24 and figures she'll never marry as she doesn't trust men either given her treatment by them. She had smallpox as a child and has scars on her face. Watching them work together, gaining appreciation for each other's skills is an interesting adventure. When The Baron sends help in the form of Willoughby Galloway they start finding answers. Will also makes Hew realize that he loves Belle given he's a newlywed himself. Each of them must accept what is in their hearts for each other as the story plays out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hew Arundel was a diplomat and married at one time. It was an arranged marriage and his wife did not suit the diplomatic life. She eventually found a lover and left him, dying in childbirth with the lover's child. Hew swore he'd never trust a woman again and keeps them at arms length. That proves to be difficult when he meets Belle. She nurses him back to health and ends up helping him figure out who's trying to kill him. They spend a lot of one on one time together. She's 24 and figures she'll never marry as she doesn't trust men either given her treatment by them. She had smallpox as a child and has scars on her face. Watching them work together, gaining appreciation for each other's skills is an interesting adventure. When The Baron sends help in the form of Willoughby Galloway they start finding answers. Will also makes Hew realize that he loves Belle given he's a newlywed himself. Each of them must accept what is in their hearts for each other as the story plays out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 4, 2023
After successfully completing his first mission as a Royal Saboteur, Hew Arundel is in London on holiday. He spends the evening with his close friend Randall but on leaving he’s attacked in the street & Randall’s pregnant wife goes into labour. When Hew wakes, he’s not only in pain but in an unfamiliar setting. He might be half-delirious, but he’s not imagining the feisty woman charged with his care. Belle isn’t a skilled nurse, but she’s smart and fearless, and Hew finds those two qualities irresistible. Belle Howard was born with a specialized palate. She knows exquisite tea by scent and taste and has used that talent to turn her family’s business, Howard’s Teas & Treats, into one of the premiere tea shops in London. When circumstances force Belle and her father to care for an injured man, they aren’t sure the man will survive - well the doctor doesn't hold out much hope. They certainly don’t expect his would-be assassins to wreak havoc on their lives.
The third book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own I’d recommend reading from the start as the series is riveting, engrossing & enthralling. This book once again proves why the author is a must read for me, it’s fast paced, the characters have oodles of depth, the chemistry sizzles, there’s mystery & intrigue & last but not least romance. I loved both Hew & Belle, both don't want to marry but they can't resist each other, their verbal banter is a joy & the air crackles when they are together – I loved their journey to a HEA. The secondary characters are also well portrayed & I particularly liked George, Belle’s father
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own I’d recommend reading from the start as the series is riveting, engrossing & enthralling. This book once again proves why the author is a must read for me, it’s fast paced, the characters have oodles of depth, the chemistry sizzles, there’s mystery & intrigue & last but not least romance. I loved both Hew & Belle, both don't want to marry but they can't resist each other, their verbal banter is a joy & the air crackles when they are together – I loved their journey to a HEA. The secondary characters are also well portrayed & I particularly liked George, Belle’s father
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 4, 2023
Hew Arundel of the Royal Saboteurs has successfully completed his first mission and is in London for a bit of relaxation before heading back to the Farm for his next assignment. But someone wants Hew dead and the assassin is nearly successful. When Hew's friend asks Belle Howard and her father, owner of Howard's Teas, to care for Hew, they reluctantly agree. They have no idea of the danger they're in when Hew is moved into their flat above the tea shop. They're just trying to keep Hew alive. Belle has been teased and belittled her whole life because of pox scars on her face she suffered as a child. She's no nurse, but she can't help but admire Hew's fine physique. When Hew wakes and compliments Belle, she doesn't trust him. Why would the most handsome man she'd ever seen be interested in her, especially with her scarred face?
I'm a fan of Ms. Galen's books, and this one hits all the right notes for me. There's intrigue, mystery, and murders to solve while a slow-burn romance is building. I loved Belle. She was strong and opinionated and wasn't afraid of saying her peace, even to Hew's lady mother. Hew's character had depth, and I enjoyed reading a bit about his past and how he overcame his reluctance to love again. It was great to see another member of the Royal Saboteurs show up to help solve the mystery. The plot moves along nicely, and after a few more twists and turns, Belle and Hew get their HEA.
I'm looking forward to reading more stories in this series. I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.
I'm a fan of Ms. Galen's books, and this one hits all the right notes for me. There's intrigue, mystery, and murders to solve while a slow-burn romance is building. I loved Belle. She was strong and opinionated and wasn't afraid of saying her peace, even to Hew's lady mother. Hew's character had depth, and I enjoyed reading a bit about his past and how he overcame his reluctance to love again. It was great to see another member of the Royal Saboteurs show up to help solve the mystery. The plot moves along nicely, and after a few more twists and turns, Belle and Hew get their HEA.
I'm looking forward to reading more stories in this series. I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.
March 8, 2023
Ms Galen never fails to entertain with her captivating and enchanting stories, and this one was no different. It is the third installment of The Royal Saboteurs series, and can be easily read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading the prior books as well.
Hew works with the Royal Saboteurs as a spy and when he gets injured, Belle and her father step in to help him. Hew had once been betrayed by his wife, so he does not easily trust women. But he can't seem to resist the intelligent, and rough charm that Belle has. Belle doesn't seem to see Hew that way at first, but when she unexpectedly ends up right in the middle of his dangerous mission, the sparks just can't seem to stop flying. Belle sees men as untrustworthy, but something about Hew makes her feel differently about him. They both know that they will soon have to part, but the more danger that follows them, the closer they become.
This was a well-written story that kept me captivated from start to finish. The twists and turns and the danger and excitement kept me turning the pages, anxious to see what happens next. The characters were well-developed and likable and I enjoyed their witty banter and interactions. This latest addition was very well crafted and such an enjoyable read. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Hew works with the Royal Saboteurs as a spy and when he gets injured, Belle and her father step in to help him. Hew had once been betrayed by his wife, so he does not easily trust women. But he can't seem to resist the intelligent, and rough charm that Belle has. Belle doesn't seem to see Hew that way at first, but when she unexpectedly ends up right in the middle of his dangerous mission, the sparks just can't seem to stop flying. Belle sees men as untrustworthy, but something about Hew makes her feel differently about him. They both know that they will soon have to part, but the more danger that follows them, the closer they become.
This was a well-written story that kept me captivated from start to finish. The twists and turns and the danger and excitement kept me turning the pages, anxious to see what happens next. The characters were well-developed and likable and I enjoyed their witty banter and interactions. This latest addition was very well crafted and such an enjoyable read. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 5, 2023
I requested an ARC of this book, and all opinions are my own.
I love this series for many reasons, including the fact that it calls back to an earlier series of Lord & Lady spies. That adds a fun layer of nostalgia, as well as letting you see more of those character's lives. There are several side characters in this story that come from the earlier books, and I enjoyed having them along for the ride.
This story centers around Hew Arundel, grandson of a duke but not titled himself, and Belle Howard, proprietress of a local tea shop. Circumstances lead Hew to Belle's door where she finds herself playing nursemaid - a position she does not enjoy. They grow to know one another during Hew's convalescence but things are thrown into disarray when one of his enemies decides to use Belle & her father as a way to draw Hew out into the open. Hew and Belle work together to take them down, and end up finding their happily ever after.
I found Belle to be incredibly pig-headed at the beginning, but she eventually grew on me. Hew was a perfect gentleman, not too condescending (those historical fellows just can't help themselves) and understanding of Belle's need to be independent.
The book is part of a series, but I think it stands very well on its own. It's a fun book, just like the others, and I would recommend to anyone.
I love this series for many reasons, including the fact that it calls back to an earlier series of Lord & Lady spies. That adds a fun layer of nostalgia, as well as letting you see more of those character's lives. There are several side characters in this story that come from the earlier books, and I enjoyed having them along for the ride.
This story centers around Hew Arundel, grandson of a duke but not titled himself, and Belle Howard, proprietress of a local tea shop. Circumstances lead Hew to Belle's door where she finds herself playing nursemaid - a position she does not enjoy. They grow to know one another during Hew's convalescence but things are thrown into disarray when one of his enemies decides to use Belle & her father as a way to draw Hew out into the open. Hew and Belle work together to take them down, and end up finding their happily ever after.
I found Belle to be incredibly pig-headed at the beginning, but she eventually grew on me. Hew was a perfect gentleman, not too condescending (those historical fellows just can't help themselves) and understanding of Belle's need to be independent.
The book is part of a series, but I think it stands very well on its own. It's a fun book, just like the others, and I would recommend to anyone.
February 24, 2023
After Royal Saboteur, Hew Arundel is attacked in London, he’s taken to the home of Belle Howard and her father, above the tea shop they run, to die or recover. The doctor doesn’t hold out much hope, since he’s gravely wounded. Unfortunately, Hew’s brought trouble with him, and Belle and her father face danger with the unconscious and feverish man in their home. Once he recovers enough to be of some help, more danger and treachery occurs, but even though Belle expects to live her life as a spinster, she has come to care about the handsome man and takes it upon herself to assist him. After a devastating marriage, Hew has vowed to never trust a woman again, but Belle just might change his mind, although he’ll have to change her mind as well. What a pair! I was rooting for them to get over their hangups and figure things out, because I thought they made a really great couple, with smart, fearless Belle and capable, protective Hew, nothing can stop them. Especially once Hew learns that Belle follows her own mind and heart, and he just needs to help or get out of the way. Another wonderful story in the Royal Saboteurs series, I definitely recommend this one.
March 19, 2023
Scarred by a previous romantic failure, he now can't trust women. Running her family's business in a time when that is extraordinarily difficult for women, she hasn't the time or inclination for romance. But circumstances throw them together when he is badly injured in an attack and she has to look after him - and then she is threatened when his attackers try again.
Shana Galen is one of my favourite authors, with handsome strong heroes, feisty brave heroines and wonderful stories to set their romances against - and this book maintains that record in spades! The story pulls you in and keeps you reading because you really want to know what happens next - once started you won't want to put it down until you finish it (and then, if you haven't read the rest of the series or all her other books, you'll want to go straight to another!). I read an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Shana Galen is one of my favourite authors, with handsome strong heroes, feisty brave heroines and wonderful stories to set their romances against - and this book maintains that record in spades! The story pulls you in and keeps you reading because you really want to know what happens next - once started you won't want to put it down until you finish it (and then, if you haven't read the rest of the series or all her other books, you'll want to go straight to another!). I read an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
March 6, 2023
This delicious book is like the perfect cake made from the perfect recipe: the right dose of humor, a touch of angst, a sprinkle of mystery and a hefty dose of adventure! I had so much fun reading it! My favorite character is undoubtedly Belle, who is practical, outspoken, bold and vulnerable at the same time, and I really loved how she interacted with Hew and all the other characters. I loved Hew and his humor despite the circumstances and I really liked all the side characters, especially Belle’s father. The books of these series have never disappointed so far: the plot is never repetitive and always intriguing, the characters endearing and the adventurous side is perfectly mixed with the love story. An entertaining five-star read!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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March 11, 2023The fun stuff: Tea and the comforts thereof, Arundel the saboteur. The annoying not so fun stuff: Fulfills the requirement that the heroine be unbelievably naive despite being 27 (oops, I didn’t notice I was in a sheer nightgown with a loose neckline), she wants to rescue her father from assassins in the pouring rain without any weapon even though she’s a good analyst, oops I wrapped my legs around your waist even though you can barely stand and it’s all your fault!
Yes, Romance novels are filled with accidents that lead to intimacy. It gets old. When the entire focus is on lust rather than connection, it gets boring.
There’s talent here. It may just be a difference in taste. DNF sadly.
Yes, Romance novels are filled with accidents that lead to intimacy. It gets old. When the entire focus is on lust rather than connection, it gets boring.
There’s talent here. It may just be a difference in taste. DNF sadly.
March 7, 2023
This third in the Royal Saboteurs series features Hew Arundel, who following his first successful mission, is stabbed while on holiday in London. Belle Howard, a self-proclaimed spinster and tea connoisseur with a specialized palate, works in her father’s tea shop and is asked to nurse Hew back to health at their tea shop home. While the two are drawn to each other, Belle lacks self-confidence as she bears scars from a childhood bout with smallpox and doesn’t feel that that as well as their social status differences could add up to a HEA. While fighting their attraction, they also have to fight off adversaries with deadly intentions and learn how to trust each other (especially Hew) in matters of the heart.
I enjoyed this but I must say not quite as much as its predecessors, and I think it’s because while I started out liking Belle’s character, I ended up being surprised by how quickly she became borderline brash and abrasive in some instances. I won’t go into specifics, but she managed to irritate me at times with moments of almost childish behavior.
Overall it was a humorous, well-written story, and I look forward to seeing whose HEA from the saboteurs will be up next.
My thanks to the author for providing the free early arc of Saved by the Belle for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
I enjoyed this but I must say not quite as much as its predecessors, and I think it’s because while I started out liking Belle’s character, I ended up being surprised by how quickly she became borderline brash and abrasive in some instances. I won’t go into specifics, but she managed to irritate me at times with moments of almost childish behavior.
Overall it was a humorous, well-written story, and I look forward to seeing whose HEA from the saboteurs will be up next.
My thanks to the author for providing the free early arc of Saved by the Belle for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
March 8, 2023
I love Shana Galen for many reasons, but strong heroine's are at the top of my list for any author. The female protagonist is smart, determined, and capable. The hero understands her value and doesn't expect her to give up what she loves (YAY). Throw in some suspense, humor, and good writing and the household chores might need to wait.
There is a well researched sublot about tea: the various types and when or for whom they might be appropriate. I will admit to looking up the curled silver dragon tips. There is also a nice subplot about people and beauty being more than someone's face.
I requested an ARC of this story, but the review is my honest opinion.
There is a well researched sublot about tea: the various types and when or for whom they might be appropriate. I will admit to looking up the curled silver dragon tips. There is also a nice subplot about people and beauty being more than someone's face.
I requested an ARC of this story, but the review is my honest opinion.
February 12, 2023
To start off, gorgeous cover and great title! I love seeing new books from Shana Galen because I can count on a great adventurous love story and this book 3 in The Royal Saboteurs was definitely that! I love this couple and the secondary characters from around the tea shop. I don't drink tea but it was fascinating to learn about the tea business. Heroines who don't think they will find love then they do are one of my favorite storylines and it was a great part of the story. I'm looking forward to more books in the series!
March 8, 2023
Another wonderful and entertaining tale from Shana Galen. I'm really enjoying this series with a second generation of spies from the Lord and Lady Spy series.
Belle the heroine is a tea expert and I found that to be a very fun element of her character. Hew the hero is connected to my all time favorite couple from The Spy Wore Blue.
Intrigue, forced proximity and instant attraction between the characters make for a fast enjoyable read.
Belle the heroine is a tea expert and I found that to be a very fun element of her character. Hew the hero is connected to my all time favorite couple from The Spy Wore Blue.
Intrigue, forced proximity and instant attraction between the characters make for a fast enjoyable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2023
This is my 42nd book by Shana Galen. I have been reading her since May 2017 and I consider her one of my favorites.
I have really been enjoying this series. Both Book 1 and 2 were great. I liked this story a lot. I actually couldn’t put it down and finished it in a few hours. Hew and Belle were such exciting characters to read. Both stubborn and hard-headed which always provides a good bid of angst. I loved the suspense and intrigue. Sex was great. Such a great read.
I have really been enjoying this series. Both Book 1 and 2 were great. I liked this story a lot. I actually couldn’t put it down and finished it in a few hours. Hew and Belle were such exciting characters to read. Both stubborn and hard-headed which always provides a good bid of angst. I loved the suspense and intrigue. Sex was great. Such a great read.
February 23, 2023
First I wanted to say this whole series has been great. I have been a fan of Shana Galen's books since her first series. She has such a way with words and all of her characters are amazing. I love how strong Belle is. Hew is a great hero even if he is injured. I don't want to give spoilers. I hope you read it and enjoy as much as I did.
March 9, 2023
Saved By The Belle (The Royal Saboteurs Book 3)
OMG what a fantastic book. I could not put it down. Shana Galen at her best, another book that had you in the edge of your seat. I can’t wait to read Lucy and Duncan’s story. I highly recommend reading this series if you have not read them yet. I have read all of Shana ‘s books , and I love everyone of them.
OMG what a fantastic book. I could not put it down. Shana Galen at her best, another book that had you in the edge of your seat. I can’t wait to read Lucy and Duncan’s story. I highly recommend reading this series if you have not read them yet. I have read all of Shana ‘s books , and I love everyone of them.
October 2, 2023
This was a fast-moving, fun caper. I thought the motivations for Hew's stabbing were a bit thin, but I thoroughly enjoyed the ensuing events. Belle's vast tea knowledge added an interesting dimension. Hew was afraid to trust in love again, but Belle and her bold demeanour soon had him upside down. I enjoyed the two of them together. I can't wait to read the next book.
February 15, 2023
Full disclosure, I love this series, however this story focuses more on the the relationship between Belle and Hew and his recovery than the mission. The mission, his attack and all the intrigue surrounding them pales in comparison to the palpable emotions and connection between this couple.
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