Length: 336 pages
Genres: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Romance
Publisher: Swoon Reads
Source: I received a free copy as part of the Xpresso Book Tour. Thank you!
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks
Synopsis: Two young people must hide their true feelings for each other while figuring out who means them harm in this cheeky Regency romance from the author of Love, Lies and Spies and Duels & Deception. Shy aspiring artist Imogene Chively has just had a successful Season in London, complete with a suitor of her father’s approval. Imogene is ambivalent about the young gentleman until he comes to visit her at the Chively estate with his younger brother in tow. When her interest is piqued, however, it is for the wrong brother. Charming Ben Steeple has a secret: despite being an architectural apprentice, he has no drawing aptitude. When Imogene offers to teach him, Ben is soon smitten by the young lady he considers his brother’s intended. But hiding their true feelings becomes the least of their problems when, after a series of “accidents,” it becomes apparent that someone means Ben harm. And as their affection for each other grows—despite their efforts to remain just friends—so does the danger. . . In Suitors and Sabotage, author Cindy Anstey delivers another witty young adult historical fiction novel that is the perfect mix of sweetly romantic and action-packed.
My Review
Suitors and Sabotage in Three Words: Fun. Charming. Cozy.
Suitors and Sabotage is as charming as its cover. It's a delightful historical romance that I am sure will make all its readers smile as much as it did me.
The story starts off with a daring rescue of Imogene's beloved dog by the most charming of gentlemen, Ben Steeple, who just so happens to be the younger brother of Ernest Steeple, the man who is courting Imogene Chively. From page one readers get to watch the budding friendship between Ben and Imogene grow into feelings that they try to deny, since Ernest is courting Imogene and her best friend Emily has her sights on Ben. The story gets even crazier when a series of "accidents" seem to be focused on harming Ben. This mysterious element adds even more fun to this historical romance novel.
Although I enjoyed every aspect of Suitors and Sabotage, I give all my praise to the wide range of interesting characters. I truly enjoyed reading about their adventures. Imogene is an awkward, and shy adorable main character while her friend Emily is bold. Ben is charming and funny while Ernest is kind and patient. There were also a handful of minor characters that added their own flair to the story, each one was appreciated. These are all characters readers will want to get to know.
The historical English setting is a delight. I could picture the most interesting old castles and buildings thanks to the apt descriptions. This may be my favorite historical romance by Cindy Anstey, but I still highly recommend her others as well. Here is my review of Love, Lies & Spies and my mini review of Duels & Deception.
The Verdict: Suitors and Sabotage is the perfect book for a rainy afternoon. Readers will delight in the charming setting, likable characters, and fun story.
The Author
Whenever she is not sitting at the computer, throwing a ball in the backyard, gardening or reading, Cindy can be found–actually, not found–adventuring around the world with her hubby.
She has lived on three continents, had a monkey in her yard and a scorpion under her sink, dwelt among castles and canals, enjoyed the jazz of Beale St and attempted to speak French.
Cindy loves history, mystery and… a chocolate Labrador called Chester. Love, Lies and Spies is her debut novel.
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