As a founding member of King & Co., London’s most successful private investigation firm, studious Eleanor Law delights in secretly proving that women can solve crimes just as well as men. When a charming con man pretends to be her fictional boss, “Charles King,” Ellie knows he’s lying, but accepting the scoundrel’s offer of help might just be the key to cracking her new case and recovering a priceless manuscript.
“Henri Bonheur”—or “Harry” as he asks to be called—claims his criminal past is behind him, but a man who steals and seduces with such consummate ease can never be trusted. As the investigation draws them deeper into danger and desire, Ellie’s infuriated to realize she’s developed feelings for her law-breaking accomplice. How can she love the scoundrel when she doesn’t even know his real name? And what will happen when Harry’s past finally catches up with him?
Release Date: Aug 20, 2024
Series: Her Majesty’s Rebels
Book: 2
Heat Level: Hot
Publisher: Macmillan
Imprint: St. Martin’s Press
Price: $8.99
“The stormy, wilder attractiveness of Dorothea Hamilton hinted at a restless spirit a little too similar to his own, but the instant attraction he’s felt on seeing Eleanor Law had been an unexpected shock. At first glance she appeared almost plain. Her physical beauty was subtle, as if she was deliberately hiding the full strength of it for fear of drawing unwanted attention, but he was man accustomed to spotting a single diamond amount a mountain of paste. Ellie reminded him of a Roman coin he’d once found in a field in Tuscany. It appeared dull, almost uninspiring, but a quick rub on his shirt had revealed its true nature; glistening, breathtaking gold.”
Eleanor Law is one-third of the successful private investigation firm, King & Co, where she teams up with her best friends, Tess and Daisy, to help solve London’s petty crimes. When a fictional and charming con man corners her and convinces her she needs his help, Ellie realizes he may be the key to solving her newest mystery. “Henri Bonheur,” or Harry as he is called for most of the book, is a reformed thief looking for a new way to make a living. These two unlikely partners team up to solve King & Co.’s latest mystery, but figuring out the riddle of Harry isn’t as easy.
Oh, this was so much fun! The writing was fun and engaging. Harry is a charming and debonair thief, but he truly has a heart of gold. He just charmed every single person in this book, even Ellie, who was leery about him at first. Her walls were no defense against his cheeky comments and flirtations. He always made her feel beautiful, desirable, and special. He builds up her confidence so much that she transforms throughout this story. The mystery was easy to follow, and even though it was easily wrapped up, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. Kate Bateman created a historical Charlie’s Angels and put out something full of humor and jolly good fun! I can’t wait for the next one.
If you’re a fan of historical romance, which is full of intrigue and romance, like those of Maddison Michaels or Anna Bradley, then definitely give this one a try. I promise you will eat this up.
~ Michelle
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