| Title | : | The Gentleman Spy (Serendipity Secrets, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 082544618X |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780825446184 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 303 |
| Publication | : | First published July 1, 2020 |
To thwart the plans of the rest of his scheming family, the duke impulsively marries one of the Season's young debutantes. After all, a properly raised noblewoman is meek and mild. Sequestering Lady Charlotte in the country and getting on with his work as a spy should be easy.
His new bride has other ideas. No shrinking violet, she's determined to take her place as his wife, front and center—no hiding in rustication. As a duchess, she can use her position to follow her call from God and help the lowest of society: the women forced into prostitution because they have no skills or hope. But these philanthropic, reforming endeavors are not met favorably in society, nor by her husband who wishes she'd remain in the background as he ordered.
Can the duke succeed in relegating her to the sidelines of his life? When his secrets are threatened with exposure, will his new wife be an asset or a liability?
The Gentleman Spy (Serendipity Secrets, #2) Reviews
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Charlotte is the kind of character that I find easy to relate to in fiction. She loves reading, wants to do what is right but also speaks up, even when it is unpopular, and is compassionate and sacrificial. I loved her newfound passion for helping unfortunate women and the way she developed confidence in herself and in her new role. Marcus has quite a bit on his plate being an unexpected duke, an undercover agent, and new groom. I wish we knew more about his emotions in the early stages of his relationship with Charlotte, but he was just too good at repressing and compartmentalizing. The intrigue of the mystery he is trying to solve comes and goes throughout the book and seems to slow the pace rather than increase it. I enjoyed the focus on Charlotte and the way she navigates the new relationships in her life- husband, difficult mother-in-law, genuine friends, secret half sister, and converted former madam. There is a faith element woven in that is not often emphasized in Regency fiction, and I appreciated the way it gave hope and inspiration to the characters. I hope there will continue to be more in this series!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own) -
I inhaled The Gentleman Spy in 24 hours. It was that good! Beautiful romance and with a wonderful social justice thread. It’s so easy to think that the issues we face today are unique to our times, but it isn’t true. Marcus was never supposed to be the Duke, and it’s a role he never sought. Now he wonders if he can balance his new role with his prior one serving the crown. Lady Charlotte is well along the road to spinsterhood, being too well learned and opinionated for her parents and many of the young men of her acquaintance. She’s resigned herself to a life unloved when she finds herself betrothed to Marcus. There’s a carryover mystery from The Lost Lieutenant, but you don’t need to have read that novel to fully enjoy this one. I highly recommend both of these novels to readers who love a good historical with more than simple romance.
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Oxfordshire, England 1814
When Marcus loses his father and older brother in an accident, Marcus quickly changes from the spare to Duke of Haverly. Marcus is happy with his life as a spy and no desire to be the heir. However, he accepts his new role and understands securing a wife is the next logical step. He has no plans to engage his heart.
Charlotte is intelligent and enjoys reading non-traditional items for women such as newspapers and books about history. She's been through two seasons and yet to find a match.
I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as the first in the series, but definitely still an enjoyable Regency novel. I especially loved Charlotte. What's not to love about a heroine who loves to read and has a big heart for those in difficult circumstances. -
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Read with Audra and NetGalley. These are my honest thoughts.
Prostitution is a reality for many people. It’s scandalous and not spoken of in most of society. But what would happen if a loved one was caught up in it due to circumstances they could not control? How personal do you suppose it would become then? And to what ends would you go to help this loved one, and others, escape from that dark and miserable life, to show them that they have more worth than the “fortune” and abuse they earn in that fashion?
The Gentleman Spy by Erica Vetsch answers those questions for one of its characters. The prostitution was never shown on-page, for which I was grateful, and it was clearly shown as a life not to be desired and for the sin it is. What the beautiful writing in this book did was showcase the leading character’s heart for rescuing the brokenhearted and lost souls who got caught up in a rough life. I can’t help but think that’s how Jesus sees all of us before we’re saved. That we’re caught up in our own sins, whatever they might be, and that He’s got a huge heart to rescue us all.
This book brought to mind Rahab from the book of Joshua in the Bible. She was a prostitute who was saved for her bravery in saving the spies when they were sought after by people who wanted to kill them. It’s clear she changed her lifestyle after that, because she joined the Israelites in their journey deeper into the Promised Land and later became a member of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. The redemption stories Jesus has in store for each of us are amazing, and I pray we freely step onto that path that will lead us to the best sort of healing in Him.
Marcus’ and Charlotte’s story is one of refining. It’s about learning to let God purify your heart and redeem your soul. It’s got such depth of heart that I can’t help but gasp to think about it. As tough as this story was to read at times—because it broke my heart in a dozen ways and opened my eyes further to the lost and aching souls around me—it was refreshing and uplifting at the same time. The journey down Redemption Road is unique to everyone, and it’s always encouraging to me to read fiction that leaves me with the impression that discovering the rich love of God goes fathoms deeper than any of us could ever comprehend. I’ve personally found that to be true, and it’s wonderful to see that others are on similar journeys of discovery.
There are many other things I adored about this story of courage and redemption. Here are a few.
The fact that Charlotte confronted habitual, generational sins with free-thinking, biblically-minded gumption was incredible to see unfold. It was encouraging to me that even when I find faults in myself, there is hope to overcome them and find strength of character because of them, not in spite of them.
While I did not like how toxic Charlotte’s parents and Marcus’ mother were in this story, I appreciated that the author represented their personalities with honesty and a confident hand. I have been around toxic people before, and she captured it perfectly. The attitudes, the reactions, the cruelty, the degradation of mind and spirit… as well as the overcoming of it in those who chose to break free. This sort of toxicity is often difficult for me to read because of my past experiences, yet somehow it wasn’t so hard this time. I think because Charlotte and Marcus both stood confidently on the truth of Jesus Christ from the outset and purposely broke free from the bondage of toxicity while still honoring their parents, it was made easier for me to tolerate these mixed-up characters who had difficulty functioning normally.
The author clearly has a large vocabulary. There were many, many words in this book I did not know. At first, I paused to look them up and, in so doing, expanded my own vocabulary. But as the story sucked me in deeper and deeper, I stopped pausing and tried my best to infer the meanings with context clues instead. There were a few that were still lost on me, but I take this as a challenge to look them up the next time I read this book, and to continue learning new-to-me words every chance I get. This plethora of unusual terms was a little new from this author, compared to the previous book in this series and the two or three other books of hers that I’ve read. (Or I’m just rusty from having read other authors’ books recently.)
The fact that Marcus was attracted to the inner beauty of his lady love before her outer beauty was truly revealed made my heart flip for joy. Too many times in fiction, the outer beauty is the first (and sometimes only) attraction point, and this almost always seems shallow to me because I know first-hand that people’s true selves lie much deeper within than the “glossy cover” of the surface presentation of themselves. I was grateful to be reading a strong story with great moral values and a desire, yearning for, and appreciation of inner beauty.
The content to make mention of was all thematic in nature, but it was also all handled with a master’s touch, never dwelling on the negative and always showing evil and sin for what they were (things in need of overcoming and repenting from) and that redemption was possible if one would only choose a new path. The one exception was a brief comment about a “friendly wager,” and this was not shown to be wrong.
Content: prostitution, marital affairs, pub, alcohol, gambling, tobacco
Recommended for: 18+ (unless really mature) for thematic elements -
Erica Vetsch continues her Serendipity and Secrets series with another wonderful Regency tale. I have read and loved her stories for quite a while but when I read the first in this series, I saw her shine! This second book wows like the first. I read it very quickly. I love this time period and she showcases it vividly. Spies are intriguing and Marcus fits the bill.
Marcus Haverly has become the Duke due to the untimely deaths of his father and brother. His duties as the new Duke could change his role as a loyal agent for the Crown. Marcus tends to put his different responsibilities into boxes to keep them separate. More difficulties come to light when both his overbearing mother and his boss urge him to find a wife.
Charlotte Tiptree is a lady, but one who is well read and not interested in the usual pursuits of fashion and rubbing elbows with the elite of society. Besides, her father keeps a tight rein on her. She has no real friends except her precious books, which she has purchased on the sly. Give me a heroine who loves books and is not afraid to use her brain. Charlotte ponders: “Any husband would be preferable to spinsterhood under her father’s control...As long as her new husband left her alone...And maybe let her buy books.”
While both Marcus and Charlotte are believers, they show their willingness to learn from God and their friends. Dolly, who runs a refuge for women. “God is not in a fluster about my predicament. He has a plan, and He will reveal it to me in His time and not a moment before. If I did not have to believe without seeing, it would not be called faith.”
They both grow in their faith, learn to trust each other and learn to order their priorities, finding that: “Your worth comes from the God who created you and the people who love you.”
There is excitement and evil, rescue and reformation and lessons in love.
Kudos to Ms. Vetsch for a fresh voice in the Regency genre. I cannot wait for book #3: The Indebted Earl.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* -
The Gentleman Spy is a fantastic Regency story that brings together elements of intrigue, romance, and secrets. The Regency era comes to life with Erica Vetsch’s voice, complete with a grasp of society and vivid word choice and custom that suits the era.
Amidst the tradition and courtship of the romance plot, the reader sees Marcus and Charlotte grow as a result of their changed circumstances and each other’s influence — though begrudgingly on Marcus’ part! I enjoyed his character’s transformation to comprehend how the elements of his life could not be contained in neat boxes. Their romance is up against many challenges and secrets, but the integrity, faith, and fortitude at the core of each of their personalities remains wonderfully steadfast.
The mystery plot adds action and interest to the story — and propels Charlotte and Marcus together in ways they could not have anticipated. Story threads from book one are continued and tidied with more secrets of Marcus’ spy work revealed. A secondary yet universal issue is brought to light featuring the need and calling to help those less fortunate. I love how this plot genuinely fits into the story and is an added way for Charlotte to assert her role.
One of my favorite aspects of this story is how BOOKISH Charlotte is, and how Marcus understands that part of her identity. When he could relegate her to feminine (and societal) limitations, he instead chooses to encourage and recognize her outspoken intelligence as the spark of his attraction and an asset to her character.
The Gentleman Spy reads as a standalone novel. However, readers of book 1, The Lost Lieutenant, will be happy with glimpses of Evan and Diana as parents (!!!) and as good friends to Marcus and Charlotte.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review. -
Updated - I listened to the audio book and I loved it just as much as reading the print copy I own.
What an absolutely wonderful novel! I loved The Lost Lieutenant, book one in this series, and I wholeheartedly love The Gentleman Spy, as well. The author has managed to capture that elusive quality between her characters that makes the reader realize that these two people, without a doubt, belong together, heart and soul.
I liked the way Charlotte and Marcus’ marriage came about, as well as the way they genuinely found common ground during the short courtship. The, my heart tugged as Charlotte tried to determine why her husband kept their marriage so compartmentalized, being passionate when they were alone at night, but disappearing and being distant during the day.
Charlotte and Marcus were both such interesting characters, I couldn’t help loving them both and hoping that they could find true love together, while also using their talents and interests to help the causes they cared about. This story really captured my attention, making me want to reread book one and also eager for book three in the series to be released! What an absolute joy The Gentleman Spy was to read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c... -
This was a lovely story. I really enjoyed Marcus and Charlotte and their adventures. Looking forward to book number 3!
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Erica Vetsch is simply so fantastic at getting you hooked with her writing and most especially her characters! The whole situation in the book got me engaged, and there were so many interesting things happening in the book that I couldn't stop reading! Also, this book and the previous one never shy away from the scandalous behaviors of the regency era, so beware, because this one here deals with some mistress + prostitution stuff. So it's certainly not your typical sweet regency novel!
In A Gentleman Spy, Charlotte, our super awesome heroine, seemed to take a bigger focus in the story, and it was so easy to connect with her just like I did with Diana in book #1,
The Lost Lieutenant. Marcus, on the other hand, was a little...meh. I did wish to have more of his POVs, even though the alternate POVs felt pretty consistent. So I didn't get to know him as much as I wished to or connect with him as much as I did with Evan in book #1 in the series. I just...AH, I really reallllyyyy wanted to see more of him!
I had thought, though, that I would enjoy this book more than the first, especially at the start of the book, but that didn't turn out to be the case (I'm sure you can tell by now..). There were some choices Marcus made that got me frustrated a whole lot. Things also took the same turn as they did in book #1, which I hoped would have been different.
But anyway, my attention was there the whole time, and I surprised myself by finishing the book in two sittings. I enjoyed this book very much, and it was so worth reading! This series and the author's writing style reminds me a whole lot of Kristi Ann Hunter, so if you're a fan of hers, then you might like this one! -
He's stubborn..She's opinionated..the sparks fly!
Another charming, delightful, romantic, and deliciously suspenseful tale from Erica Vetsch! After enjoying the first book in the Serendipity & Secrets series I had high hopes and expectations for The Gentleman Spy, which, I am pleased to say it lived up to and exceeded them.
While it did take me a couple of chapters to get into the story, namely because the shabby treatment of the heroine from the people who should have loved her most made me so mad, but when the hero and his lady met for the first time...BAM! I was so intrigued by the story I couldn't put it down. I read it until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer. I read it first thing after waking up. I read while I was eating. And I read while the family was watching a movie. Needless to say, I finished in less than a day. That's about as fast as I can read a 300+ page book and still get a few things done.
I, of course, loved the suspenseful threads in The Gentleman Spy but I also enjoyed that fact that much of the book features the hero and heroine as a married couple. They both have misplaced expectations when they get married and they both come with a lot of emotional baggage. It was fun, and sometimes frustrating, watching them tentatively learn about each other, slowly adjust to their new normal, and ultimately fall in love.
I've probably said it before but I'll say it again, Erica Vetsch has most successfully jumped eras with her historical romance. I wouldn't hesitate to say that she is now one of my favorite Regency authors. You really can't go wrong reading her Serendipity & Secrets series!
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.) -
A second son who never had the intention of being Earl and the daughter who is made to look as plain, but expected to marry meet. It is a chance meeting and one that will end up with expectations and hope.
This is the story of Marcus and Charlotte. Marcus being the son who became earl, but is also a spy for the crown. Charlotte the daughter who is made to look so plain no one even gives her a look. At least not until a ball pulls them together to the dismay of their families. With the recent awareness of her sister, Pippa, Charlotte then concentrates on helping Pippa and those in her "profession"; however, unaware of Marcus already knowing Pippa. But it is this connection that brings them closer together and finding and fighting for a cause that is all too well known in their time and town.
I enjoyed this book, the social circles that people ran in those days and the changes that have happened since then. -
4.5 stars
"I can be a married man and still maintain my freedom in other aspects. Charlotte will suit me fine. There when I need her and capable of being autonomous when I don't."
Compartments. That's how the new Duke of Haverly had been envisioning his life; in neat little compartments. Marcus had functioned in this manner for so long, he erroneously assumed that adding a wife, just added a compartment . . . . . not so. Lady Charlotte's brilliant mind drew him in like cold hands to a warm fire, but when her heart began showing, matching her outer beauty to what was hidden within, Marcus knew he was in deep, deep trouble.
"What did you expect? By now you should know better than to think that anything good would come your way or last more than a moment. God may be the giver of good gifts, for some, but not for you."
Lady Charlotte Tiptree had been overlooked and under valued for most, if not all, of her life. Threatened to a life of spinsterhood by her overbearing father, he delivers a shocking ultimatum; find a husband or become relegated as a companion for her insufferable aunt. Imagine her surprise when the answer to her dilemma arrives in the form a handsome enigma. . . .was the Duke of Haverly's offer a dream come true, or the continuation of a living nightmare?
Undoubtedly, one of the most romantic stories that you will ever read! And suspenseful! And inspiring! May it come as no surprise if you close the book only to open it back to the very first page. -
I've read both books in this series in quick succession, since they were published within months of each other. Overall, I have enjoyed both books in this unusual regency series, which is the first from this author (she has written short Regency stories in collections before).
The elements of espionage and political intrigue add a lot to the story, and Marcus. Sigh. Marcus is just dreamy. He was an excellent character in the last book, and even moreso here. Darkly handsome, chivalrous, protective, but also smart and sharp.
The quips and banter between him and Charlotte here at times hilarious, and I love how they came together over a mutual love of books.
I liked Charlotte at first because of this. Being a devoted bookworm and nerd myself. I'd be called a 'bluestocking' in Regency times, for my love of history books and reading ancient poems over popular fiction. Set me loose in a bookstore and you could lose me for hours.
However, I had a few issues with this novel (which also relate to the previous one). One of this was the continually negative depiction of men. All the male characters except the heroes, and few of their associates are either lechers or abusers, or both.
Now don't get me wrong, I think we do need to address the subject of abuse of women in novels, but I think the issue here is that it's very one-sided. Making out that only men are abusers and only women are their victims.
In real life, this isn't the case. Women can and do abuse men, other women and children. Women can be extremely controlling, but this isn't really depicted in this novel. All the women are helpless victims or innocent angels of evil men.
Also, I stopped a few Americanisms which really stood out, and a couple of details which did not ring true for the time period. Such as Macus having a gym in his attic, and working out in it. The characters also refer to 'sitting in Lords'.
I assume this refers to sitting in the House of Lords, but that is not an abbreviation I've ever encountered before. British people don't say that. We'd say 'in the Lords' or 'The House of Lords'. As an interesting aside, there is a cricket ground called Lords and I kept thinking of that whenever they used this (incorrect) term.
I'd certainly read more by this author, and look forward to the 3rd and final book in this series, though I'm glad there's a bit of a gap between the release dates. I did like this book, but I would not count it as a favourite, but will recommend it for fans of Regency Romance.
Thanks to Audra Jennings and Kregel for providing me with an ebook version of this title. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. -
Marcus reveled in the fact that he was the second son. His father was a Duke and his older brother was in succession. That was perfectly fine for Marcus. Sadly, his father and brother died in a carriage accident eight months previously. His sister-in-law was pregnant at the time and has now just given birth to a daughter. This means that the title of Duke passes on to Marcus. He is none too happy. Not only are the responsibilities magnanimous, Marcus is an agent of the Crown and is one of the best spies there is. No one knows the role Marcus plays. Ducal responsibilities certainly could get in the way of those duties.
Currently, there is an assassination attempt in play for the Prince Regent. The designated killer had been stopped (see The Lost Lieutenant, the first book in this series). However, the mastermind is still at large. While Marcus is searching high and low in order to prevent a murder, he must also contend with his difficult mother. In an attempt to deal with his her grieving, Marcus tells her that he will seek a bride and provide an heir. This plays right along with his superior's suggestion that a wife might balance out his life. Marcus figures that since he has always lived his life in order, a wife shouldn't upset his work in any way whatsoever. Emotion will never play a role.
Meanwhile, Lady Charlotte Tiptree is nearly a spinster. Her parents have been very unhappy with her for not finding a mate prior till now. Also, Charlotte would rather have her nose in a book, and hopes that if she ever finds a marriage mate, that it could be both a meeting of the hearts and the mind. Charlotte's father has no give, and is more than cruel. In short order, she finds herself engaged to Marcus.
Actually, this could work for the both of them. No emotion, no attachment. Marcus's mother will be happy, and Charlotte can escape her unhappy home. In order to deal with the sadness that held her captive, Charlotte buried herself in books. (Sounds more than familiar.) There is something else. Charlotte has a goal, a purpose that takes a lot of her attention. This brings in an element of danger in this story, as Charlotte will not give up on something she wants to change, including bringing someone into her life.
Can Marcus keep his life compartmentalized? Will emotion ever be a part of the lives of these two? What about the plot to assassinate the Prince Regent? With a few twists this story incorporates faith, love and happiness, with enough excitement and action that kept me turning pages at a rapid pace. I absolutely loved both books in this series, and am more than eager for the next one, The Indebted Earl.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion. -
Another great book by this author! Innovative storyline, intriguing characters who learn and grow throughout the book.
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Beautiful story of redemption, love, and courage. LOVED the heroine. If you are a fan of regency fiction and of Zorro, you HAVE to read this one.
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The Gentleman and the Spy is the greatly anticipated second book in Erica Vetsch’s Serendipity & Secrets regency romance series. This story has just the right amount of swoony romance for any historical romance lover. But not only is this a splendid regency romance, it’s an adventure filled spy story as well, that readers will love at the turn of every page. Once again, Vetsch brings her beloved characters off the pages in such a way that readers will be sucked into the story almost as if they were one of the characters themselves. This is a delightful story that readers will not want to miss!
Series: Serendipity & Secrets
Genre: historical, romance, regency, Christian
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Publication date: July 28, 2020
Number of pages: 304
Other books in the series:
1-The Lost Lieutenant
3-The Indebted Earl (coming March 2021)
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. -
Not always the same energy running through it, but I did think the pace accelerated towards the end, and this book certainly ends well.
Interesting plot line, perhaps a little unrealistic but enjoyable all the same. I’m really intrigued as to how common the adultery was amongst the upper classes, perhaps in an age when people married out of duty and expectation and really out of readiness or desire, that does lean towards a higher quantity of unsatisfied couples.
I’m not sure if the reason it’s always written into story lines is to place the hero on a higher pedestal perhaps that their peers. Everyone else is a philanderer but not this guy...
Looking forward to the next book. One thing is for certain this author is very skilled at writing an engaging and interesting story. Kept me hooked through to the end. -
I loved the cover of this book and this is my second book in the Serendipity & Secrets Series!
Lady Charlotte Tiptree was what people called a spinster. Charlotte's Father never let her dress like a debutante or wear her hair regally. As a result, Charlotte had not found a marriage match. Charlotte's Mother was very much trying to find a stable man for Charlotte's future husband.
Charlotte found out that her father had a mistress for 20 years and she also had a sister from that tryst. Then her father left both his mistress and daughter and they had to fend for themselves. The daughter became a prostitute. This angered Charlotte so much and she confronted her father. Her father became so angry that told his servant to get all of Charlotte's books and burn them. Charlotte had a very small allowance from her father and had saved for many months to buy these books. Back in the Regency period women were not supposed to read books to be educated in current events. They were just supposed to be pawns in their marriages and bear children and a lot of them were abused or neglected. Charlotte would not let that happen to her. Charlotte wanted more out of life.
The main character of the book, Marcus Waverly, was a spy for the crown. Marcus kept his life compartmentalized - his family never knew he was a spy. When his Marcus' father and brother were both killed in a carriage accident, Marcus reluctantly became The Duke of Waverly. Marcus was the second son and therefore called the "spare".
Charlotte's parents and Marcus' mother was trying to get them both wed to appropriate spouses. Marcus was attracted to Charlotte's wit and intelligence. They abruptly became engaged and in a month's time were wed. Charlotte and Marcus did not know a lot about each other even though Marcus knew of the terrible life Charlotte lived under her father's roof.
Charlotte wants to help her sister to not be a prostitute. Her sister resented Charlotte.
I had to chuckle to myself because of the banter that Charlotte and Marcus did when speaking with each other. That is why I included that this book could be considered a comedy in that instance.
There was a big villain in this book - Charlotte and her sister were very much in danger.
At the end of the book there was a sneak peak for book #3. I am very much looking forward to the story of Marcus' sister, Sophia.
"This book was provided courtesy of Kregel Publications through Interviews & Reviews." -
THE GENTLEMAN SPY is a story of the roughness of life mixed with humor, family, faith, and love with a touch of suspense. The characters are endearing and fun, making them the best part of this story and easy to fall in love with. Recommended to Christian historical romance readers and fans of the series.
Marcus, the hero of this book, was one of my favorite characters from the first book in this series so I was very excited to jump into his story. Let me just say that Marcus did not disappoint. He is a dashing, intelligent, brave, skilled, and swoon-worthy hero. I loved his love for his sister (even though we only get a glimpse of her—her story is next in the series), his respect and patience with his mother, his loyalty, and his humor. He also likes his life orderly, with everything in their places. Becoming the duke and then running into Charlotte messes up what he thinks his life should look like.
Charlotte is a book lover's heroine. She's a bluestocking and adores books, even the smell and feel of them. She has issues biting her tongue when others have misconceptions or make comments about her interests or intelligence because of her gender. She is not always wise, but she does learn over time to be a little more so. She has not been able to trust the men in her life and so opening her heart and trusting Marcus is a struggle for her.
Marcus and Charlotte together are a joy! I loved their banter, the teasing, the attraction, but also the serious moments when they are getting glimpses of each other and who they each are underneath the parts they play. I loved the whole situation with them and how things spontaneously happen. There is some really good dialogue here, with some lines that I really loved. I also felt like the author lets things get a bit uncomfortable as they try to figure out their relationship and I appreciated that she didn't make things too easy.
I seriously loved the first two-thirds to three-fourths of this book and was ready to give it all the stars, but then I got towards the end... I just have issues when books start to feel forced and it felt that way towards the end with this one. It just didn't come across as realistic (and yes, I know this is fiction) with some of the situations, the drama, and the plotting. Then at the end the romance was almost sickly sweet, which was too much for me. The very end was delightful and then we get a glimpse of the third book in the series (which I will be reading). Some readers may not have these issues, but it was a bit disappointing to me since I thought it was going so well up to then. Regardless, I still love these characters and am ready for more.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I enjoyed reading this story that tugs on the heart, with delightful characters, a sweet romance, and a bit of suspense.
Content: Some innuendo, references to affairs and prostitution, abuse and violence, and a few references to the marriage bed.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Audra Jennings PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own. -
'Life would be so much easier if God would stay confined to Sunday worship and evening prayers.'
I've read Erica Vetsch a long time, but last year when she wrote her first Regency and book in this series, I was completely certain that she had found her niche. She wrote the best Regency! And now she has done it again with the second book in the series.
Marcus quite unexpectedly finds himself the new Duke of Haverly after the sudden death of his father and older brother. Being a duke does quite interfere with his job as a spy for the Crown. His mother insists on him marrying and begins parading a long line of simpering females in front of him. Unable to bear it any longer, Marcus ups and marries a debutante his mother quite disapproves of. After all, Marcus needs to have a wife to manage his home while he's off spying, and he believes Charlotte Tiptree is just the one to do it. However, he does not reckon on Charlotte being an independent thinker and reader. She decides she is going to help the lowly in society and fulfill God's call on her life. No husband will banish her to the sidelines.
'I should have known better. God doesn't give someone like me good gifts.'
Truly, Erica Vetsch is a masterful story teller in this genre. Rich historical details combine with a swoony hero, seriously heart pounding romance and that danger belonging to spies, Vetsch has another stunning Regency that will reside on my keeper shelf for always. I can't wait for the next book in the series1 Highly recommended.
*My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. -
I love a good series, and this series by Erica Vetsch is simply amazing. I adored book one, and thought nothing could top that, right? I liked this one even more (didn’t think that was possible)! First, you have spunky Charlotte. Oh her mouth got her into some trouble but boy did it make me laugh. And while it seemed troublesome to some of the other characters, she really was just trying to do what was best, along with speaking her mind. She was such a fantastic character!!
And then our hunky hero….who at first I didn’t think was going to make such a great hero. I can’t put my finger on it, but I just wasn’t really feeling his character. Then enter Charlotte, and I just couldn’t tear my eyes off the pages. Their chemistry fantastic, and frankly I liked who his character become around her. **sigh** Why does it have to be over?
Romance aside, Vestch weaves a brilliant plot full of mystery, compassion, difficult choices, and books! Yes our leading lady is a book lover just like me. Disclosure – there is a scene where something happens to her books, and I just about cried. It broke my heart! I know it seems silly (especially for those of you who have read and probably know what I’m talking about), but wow. What an unexpected way to get my emotions going!
This series is a must read. And while this book could probably be read as a standalone, there are a few things from book one that roll into this story, and so I think it’s best to read them in order. Now we just have to wait for book three!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. -
Picking up right where the previous book left off, this book follows second son Marcus Haverly, who has up to this point been able organize his life into neat separate compartments, not mixing his secret work for the crown, with his personal life. I loved Marcus from the previous book in the series, which made slipping back into this high stakes regency world so much more enjoyable and rewarding, I'd been waiting for this book from the moment that I turned down the last page of The Lost Lieutenant--and it did NOT disappoint.
Fast paced and engaging from the start with characters that I could cheer for throughout. Charlotte is intelligent and likes to stay abreast of the current events, which is scandalous for a woman of her time. I loved her drive to be involved and do something more than just live her life going to parties and hosting them. She has a heart for others, and a passion for learning. I admired how she acts on her faith.
I also enjoyed seeing many familiar faces like Evan and Diana, who are amazing friends to Marcus and Charlotte. There was great chemistry and interaction, I like how they compliment each other and Charlotte challenges Marcus's approach to life and faith. I thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic regency read, (maybe even more than the first book), highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. -
This series of Regency novels is entertaining and engrossing. While they can easily be stand alone reads,it would behoove the reader to read them in succession as characters and plot, while different, are built upon book by book.
I loved the characters and the way they are fully developed by the author. You'll love them and despise them. The main characters are Charlotte who is the drab, intellectual, daughter of an Earl who keeps she and his wife on tight purse strings. And our hero of the hour, the new Duke who was originally the "spare" since he was a second-son. In book one circumstances invade his life and he becomes the heir
An unexected meeting, first impressions, secrets, hasty wedding, and a plot that thickens while being woven through the murky waters of the destitute in London and the wealthy social class and how they are tangled in a murky mess.
Dangers. Dangerous people. Lives torn assunder. And a plot against the throne.
A must read for those who love regency stories. A must read for those who love exposing the dirty secrets of London. A must read for those who love good Christian values interwoven throughout the book.
Consider before you pass along to young readers: The story mentions brothels, prostitution, beatings. The story has the intense emotions of a newly wed couple but not any bedroom scenes.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. -
My Thoughts
“The Gentleman Spy” has been one of my most awaited books releasing in the second half of the year.
And it does does not disappoint! With intrigue, romance, and a dash of mystery this historical fiction is the perfect book for any historical reader.
The cover is absolutely perfect for the story though I was not sure that I would love the characters as much as I did. The way the characters grew was impressive and I look forward to the final book in the series coming next year.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. -
GIVEEE IT TO US ALREADY!!! WE CANNOT WAITT. so stokeddd :)
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A bit far fetched of a story, but enjoyable nighttime reading. I thought the beauty thought to be plain because of her abusive father with the handsome gentleman savior was nothing unexpected, but still enjoyable.
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This read kept me turning pages until the very end. The characters were realistic, the storyline engaging, and the imagery exceptional.
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Ok. So I didn't realize this was labeled Christian fiction when I picked it up. That is typically a no for me but because it has such a high rating (and I had already bought it) I decided to give it a go. I was pleasantly surprised! It does have some mention of God, but not so much as to be off-putting.
I really enjoyed the plot. What I found to be most enjoyable was the main characters acted like adults. There was no unnecessary drama. They sold their problems by -gasp- talking!
Overall this was a highly enjoyable story that I found hard to put down. I would give it a 4.5 but I'm rounding it to a 5.
