Starred review from December 12, 2011
Alexander (The Perfect Mistress) delights with a strong heroine, dashing hero, and unexpected plot twists with a heavy dose of humor. Married for two years, Evelyn and Adrian Hadley-Attwater are still deeply in love and good friends as well. Dignified, respectable Evie is a former secret agent, and she remains unaware that Adrian was her boss. She feels guilty keeping her secret from Adrian, while he wonders how to get her to tell the truth. Then Evie is given one last assignment, and Adrian frets over her sudden distraction, wondering whether she misses the excitement of espionage, is having an affair, or is pining for her ex-boss—not knowing he’s her husband. The two are strong, and determined to teach each other a lesson about love and trust. They’re also consistently as practical as they are affectionate, making this Victorian romp fun, passionate, and funny. Agent: Jane Rotrosen Agency.
February 15, 2012
Blissfully married to a man she adores, Evelyn Hadley-Attwater, Countess of Waterston, has no intention of returning to her former life as a spy--especially since she's never told her husband about her adventurous past or about "Sir," the anonymous agent with whom she worked so closely. When a sensitive file is stolen, Evelyn is blackmailed into one last covert mission, which throws her life into chaos and puts her marriage and, ultimately, her life in jeopardy. Likable characters, a surfeit of secrets, fast-paced action, and a complex plot combine in this satisfying story of deception and suspense. While readers may be annoyed that Evelyn and her husband, Adrian, are not more open about their pasts in the first place, this title is great fun and beautifully sets the stage for the next in the series. VERDICT Witty, lively, and intriguing, this multilayered story is a rewarding read and, while somewhat less intense, may appeal to fans of Joanna Bourne's "Spymaster" books. Alexander (His Mistress by Christmas) lives in Omaha.
Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.