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Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
The Raven and the Rose by Adra Mayfield and Leanne Blakemore is a tightly written and well-plotted historical romance set in 1840 in Northumberland, England. Lady Rosalind Englebright is a spirited woman who prefers breeches to ballgowns. She is fierce and untamed. Her father is forced to reveal a secret he has kept to protect them: his connection to a traitor known as the Raven. Kristoff Van Reede is working to locate a long-lost heir. The fiery attraction between Lady Rosalind and Kristoff might lead to a wedding, but it might just be a pause in a deadly game involving espionage, a kidnapped heir, and the return of the Raven, a legendary spy whose vendetta might destroy the Englebright family.
Adra Mayfield and Leanne Blakemore have delivered a romance that captivated me with intricate plotting and by how well it blended steamy romance with gothic intrigue. The Raven and the Rose is a great read for romance fans, but what caught my attention the most was the mystery surrounding the Raven, a master of disguise linked to the Napoleonic Wars. This mystery is sustained through cleverly delivered red herrings that include shocking revelations of villains hiding in plain sight. Rosalind is an unconventional heroine, and it was fun following her. She is outspoken and athletic, albeit terrified at times. Kristoff is perfect for her, and his military discipline balances his passionate intensity. The authors deliver suspense in a conflict with compelling elements, bringing the story to an unexpected climax, with espionage, sabotage, and even murder. This book is a satisfying read for historical fiction fans.
