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letmereadinpeaceornot's review against another edition
4.5
THIS WAS AMAZING. Read 80% of it in 1 sitting and I could not put it down. I loved Seb and Clarissa and their budding friendship and romance. I also enjoyed the spy aspect and I’m very excited to read the rest of the series!
scoutmomskf's review against another edition
5.0
This is the first book in the King's Elite series and it captured my attention from the beginning. I loved both main characters, and the setting of stopping a ring of smugglers with ties to Napoleon.
Clarissa is a reigning beauty in Society, well known for her charm and perfect appearance. This perfection hides a profoundly insecure woman who hides a secret that would topple her from the pedestal she is on. She feels that the only way to protect herself is to marry a duke (because who would question a duchess?) and has pursued the Duke of Westridge for two years. His courtship has been lackadaisical at best, and his attention has recently begun to wander. Needing some peace to regroup, Clarissa left London to visit her sister. Her fixation on marrying a duke was irritating at first but became understandable as her issues were revealed.
Seb is a member of an elite spy ring working for the British government. Recently wounded, he is recovering at the home of Dr. Joe Warriner, brother of one of his colleagues, and anxious to return to his mission. Seb is a man who can blend in anywhere, but would rather face a deadly enemy than have to converse with a woman. Confronted with Clarissa and her stunning beauty, Seb became a tongue-tied mess. It's unusual to find a hero who doesn't reek of self-confidence, and Seb's shyness and moments of blushing were sweet.
Seb and Clarissa intrigued each other from the very start. Though overwhelmed by her beauty, it didn't take long for Seb to see that she used that beauty as a façade to hide the real her. Clarissa sensed his attention and used her own observational skills on him. She couldn't help but notice his physique and how different he was from the other men she knew. Though gruff on the outside, she saw the kindness in his eyes. Both had their pride, however, and maintained their outward appearances. But the sparks that were there between them created an unexpected encounter that night, as each one's inability to sleep sent them to the kitchens for a late-night snack. Seb ended up more than a little tipsy and became very talkative, something that didn't usually happen with him. I ached for him as he talked about his past and sighed at his admission of his shyness and difficulty talking to women. I also loved his observations of Clarissa and his advice to her about the duke. He finished off his ramblings with an unexpected kiss that shook them both.
Six weeks later, Seb was back at work, with a new assignment in their search for the leaders of the smugglers. A task that he isn't happy about. Instead of his usual background position, he will be front and center as Lord Millcroft, trying to work his way into a suspect's circle. It was his bad luck that on his first night being introduced to Society he ran into Clarissa, who could blow his cover with one word. Clarissa's intelligence shines through in this part as she listens to his explanation and steps in to help. Her acceptance of "Lord Millcroft" and presence at his side cement his place. In addition, she helps smooth over any of his rough spots. As a benefit to her, Seb's attentions to her waken a bit of jealousy in her duke.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Seb and Clarissa. Their work together to uncover the smugglers frequently put them in each other's company. As they work together, their feelings for each other grow and change. Seb falls hard for Clarissa but knows her eyes are set on the Duke of Westbridge. His background also holds him back as he is well below her in standing. For Clarissa, the more time she spends with Seb, the less enthralled she is with the duke. Seb's appreciation of her intelligence begins to change the way she sees herself. Her increase in confidence gives her the boost she needs to go after what she wants. I loved Clarissa's big moment at the end.
The mystery of the smugglers was great. It was an essential part of the story but didn't detract from the romance. I was on the edge of my seat as the book progressed, waiting to see what would happen. I loved how Seb and Clarissa's efforts complemented each other, and the way they made a perfect team. I laughed out loud at the scene with Clarissa in men's clothes, determined to help and refusing to be left behind. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, as well as an example of Clarissa's ingenuity. I loved the twist at the end and look forward to seeing more of them in future books.
I liked the secondary characters of Seb's fellow spies, Flint, Gray, and Hadleigh. All of them seemed to enjoy giving Seb a hard time, especially Gray. He really stirred the pot the night that Seb went out with the other "gentlemen."
Clarissa is a reigning beauty in Society, well known for her charm and perfect appearance. This perfection hides a profoundly insecure woman who hides a secret that would topple her from the pedestal she is on. She feels that the only way to protect herself is to marry a duke (because who would question a duchess?) and has pursued the Duke of Westridge for two years. His courtship has been lackadaisical at best, and his attention has recently begun to wander. Needing some peace to regroup, Clarissa left London to visit her sister. Her fixation on marrying a duke was irritating at first but became understandable as her issues were revealed.
Seb is a member of an elite spy ring working for the British government. Recently wounded, he is recovering at the home of Dr. Joe Warriner, brother of one of his colleagues, and anxious to return to his mission. Seb is a man who can blend in anywhere, but would rather face a deadly enemy than have to converse with a woman. Confronted with Clarissa and her stunning beauty, Seb became a tongue-tied mess. It's unusual to find a hero who doesn't reek of self-confidence, and Seb's shyness and moments of blushing were sweet.
Seb and Clarissa intrigued each other from the very start. Though overwhelmed by her beauty, it didn't take long for Seb to see that she used that beauty as a façade to hide the real her. Clarissa sensed his attention and used her own observational skills on him. She couldn't help but notice his physique and how different he was from the other men she knew. Though gruff on the outside, she saw the kindness in his eyes. Both had their pride, however, and maintained their outward appearances. But the sparks that were there between them created an unexpected encounter that night, as each one's inability to sleep sent them to the kitchens for a late-night snack. Seb ended up more than a little tipsy and became very talkative, something that didn't usually happen with him. I ached for him as he talked about his past and sighed at his admission of his shyness and difficulty talking to women. I also loved his observations of Clarissa and his advice to her about the duke. He finished off his ramblings with an unexpected kiss that shook them both.
Six weeks later, Seb was back at work, with a new assignment in their search for the leaders of the smugglers. A task that he isn't happy about. Instead of his usual background position, he will be front and center as Lord Millcroft, trying to work his way into a suspect's circle. It was his bad luck that on his first night being introduced to Society he ran into Clarissa, who could blow his cover with one word. Clarissa's intelligence shines through in this part as she listens to his explanation and steps in to help. Her acceptance of "Lord Millcroft" and presence at his side cement his place. In addition, she helps smooth over any of his rough spots. As a benefit to her, Seb's attentions to her waken a bit of jealousy in her duke.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Seb and Clarissa. Their work together to uncover the smugglers frequently put them in each other's company. As they work together, their feelings for each other grow and change. Seb falls hard for Clarissa but knows her eyes are set on the Duke of Westbridge. His background also holds him back as he is well below her in standing. For Clarissa, the more time she spends with Seb, the less enthralled she is with the duke. Seb's appreciation of her intelligence begins to change the way she sees herself. Her increase in confidence gives her the boost she needs to go after what she wants. I loved Clarissa's big moment at the end.
The mystery of the smugglers was great. It was an essential part of the story but didn't detract from the romance. I was on the edge of my seat as the book progressed, waiting to see what would happen. I loved how Seb and Clarissa's efforts complemented each other, and the way they made a perfect team. I laughed out loud at the scene with Clarissa in men's clothes, determined to help and refusing to be left behind. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, as well as an example of Clarissa's ingenuity. I loved the twist at the end and look forward to seeing more of them in future books.
I liked the secondary characters of Seb's fellow spies, Flint, Gray, and Hadleigh. All of them seemed to enjoy giving Seb a hard time, especially Gray. He really stirred the pot the night that Seb went out with the other "gentlemen."
thrivingduck's review against another edition
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
ebgracie77's review
This was fine. It had potential. I don’t understand the sex immediately after a couple declares their love finally. Kiss sure. But straight to it after they finally know they like each other!? It’s just such a cliche and doesn’t feel like it advances the story. Enh. Too bored to go on. DNF at 81%.
ecofriendly_bookworm's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
A beautiful romance. I loved the male character Seb. We very rarely see the male character with some social awkwardness and not confident in historical romance. And also the female main character less than perfect (perfect being the word which she hates).😉😜
jessbookishlife's review
5.0
I got really sad when I finished reading the Wild Warriner Series, because I know there were some characters there that I was curious about, including Clarissa. But when I found out about this book I was relieved. So you can understand how excited I got when I first started reading the book.
Sebastian Leatham is such an amazing character. I didn't know if I would loved him as much as I loved the Warriner brothers, but I did! And I loved seeing how he reacted to Clarissa, how they interacted with each other. It was amazing. And the fact that he is a spy and was nearly killed, and now he's trying to get back to living and getting better...
Well, Virginia does know how to make a story intriguing and a character different from all the others in her books. Each character that she writes about has that unique quality that makes me want to get to know them better with each page.
Then we have Clarissa... if you read "A Warriner To Tempt Her" you know who she is... When I first read about her I didn't know what to think. She wasn't the kind of character that immediately grab my love, but I know there was a story there. Besides, I wasn't fcus on her when she appeared in that book. When I found out that Virginia was going to publish this book and it was about her and an male character/love interest, I got thinking and I realized that it was the right time to find out more about that story, about that feeling I had when I first read about her.
And that was what made me a bit open to her. I knew that she deserved to get her story told, even if she wasn't very likable in the beginning and she has a lot of potential for developing and to grow as a person. So I was happy to finally see that developing, and to see her for whom she really is. So I was definitely not disappointed about this book.
I loved Clarissa and Sebastian's relationship and that same relationship unfolded, because from page after page, we get that feel of love, action, drama, unexpected moments and humor that Virginia works so well in her storytelling. And it's great to see how the characters can change, because it gives me a sense of realism in the world that Virginia Heath created, from book one of the Wild Warriners to this one.
And speaking about the Warriners and before I forget... I love to see the Warriners in this book. As soon as Dr. Joe appeared I almost screamed. It's like seeing and old friend again, after so many time away from each other. And I know I have read his book this year, a couple of months ago, but still, it was amazing to read a bit about them again.
Overall, I can't wait for the other books in this new series. the concept is amazing and I can't wait to see what else Virginia is going to come up with and how exhilarating the next story will be. We are talking about Virginia Health after all, so I know she will write brilliant, funny, romantic, action and drama moments that will blow our minds and fill our hearts with the need of reading another book.
Do I recommend this book? I recommend all of her books, this one included. If you like Historical Romances and books with love, humor and action, plus a spy and a lady, go for it and go grab a copy of this book. Go buy it and enjoy a cup of tea (or wine) and the book.
[Thank you Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Virginia Heath for the eCopy of the book and for allowing me to be a part of this blog tour and give my honest review.]
Sebastian Leatham is such an amazing character. I didn't know if I would loved him as much as I loved the Warriner brothers, but I did! And I loved seeing how he reacted to Clarissa, how they interacted with each other. It was amazing. And the fact that he is a spy and was nearly killed, and now he's trying to get back to living and getting better...
Well, Virginia does know how to make a story intriguing and a character different from all the others in her books. Each character that she writes about has that unique quality that makes me want to get to know them better with each page.
Then we have Clarissa... if you read "A Warriner To Tempt Her" you know who she is... When I first read about her I didn't know what to think. She wasn't the kind of character that immediately grab my love, but I know there was a story there. Besides, I wasn't fcus on her when she appeared in that book. When I found out that Virginia was going to publish this book and it was about her and an male character/love interest, I got thinking and I realized that it was the right time to find out more about that story, about that feeling I had when I first read about her.
And that was what made me a bit open to her. I knew that she deserved to get her story told, even if she wasn't very likable in the beginning and she has a lot of potential for developing and to grow as a person. So I was happy to finally see that developing, and to see her for whom she really is. So I was definitely not disappointed about this book.
I loved Clarissa and Sebastian's relationship and that same relationship unfolded, because from page after page, we get that feel of love, action, drama, unexpected moments and humor that Virginia works so well in her storytelling. And it's great to see how the characters can change, because it gives me a sense of realism in the world that Virginia Heath created, from book one of the Wild Warriners to this one.
And speaking about the Warriners and before I forget... I love to see the Warriners in this book. As soon as Dr. Joe appeared I almost screamed. It's like seeing and old friend again, after so many time away from each other. And I know I have read his book this year, a couple of months ago, but still, it was amazing to read a bit about them again.
Overall, I can't wait for the other books in this new series. the concept is amazing and I can't wait to see what else Virginia is going to come up with and how exhilarating the next story will be. We are talking about Virginia Health after all, so I know she will write brilliant, funny, romantic, action and drama moments that will blow our minds and fill our hearts with the need of reading another book.
Do I recommend this book? I recommend all of her books, this one included. If you like Historical Romances and books with love, humor and action, plus a spy and a lady, go for it and go grab a copy of this book. Go buy it and enjoy a cup of tea (or wine) and the book.
[Thank you Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Virginia Heath for the eCopy of the book and for allowing me to be a part of this blog tour and give my honest review.]
katie_83's review
5.0
The Mysterious Lord Millcroft (The Kings Elite #1)
By Virginia Heath
5 stars
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
The Mysterious Lord Millcroft was a fantastic historical romance read. I loved every single bit of it. The authors writing was excellent, it flowed well and had a great pace. I loved her use of descriptive language and could imagine exactly what I was reading. I could almost imagine this book being a television period drama or a film. I loved the uniqueness of the storyline and the characters were just amazing.
I really liked Lady Clarissa, I liked that she wasn’t your typical female of that time period, she lacked the skills that women should have had and I think this is why I liked her, she was different. She had secrets that I couldn’t wait to be revealed.
In all honesty Sebastian was not what I was expecting at all, I was definitely thinking he would be a typical spy but he was so much more. Although he was confident as a spy around women he was different and I loved the interaction between him and Clarissa.
There were really some great twists in this story, the whole plot was well thought out and executed. I really enjoyed every part of it and would definitely love to read more from this series in the future.
By Virginia Heath
5 stars
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
The Mysterious Lord Millcroft was a fantastic historical romance read. I loved every single bit of it. The authors writing was excellent, it flowed well and had a great pace. I loved her use of descriptive language and could imagine exactly what I was reading. I could almost imagine this book being a television period drama or a film. I loved the uniqueness of the storyline and the characters were just amazing.
I really liked Lady Clarissa, I liked that she wasn’t your typical female of that time period, she lacked the skills that women should have had and I think this is why I liked her, she was different. She had secrets that I couldn’t wait to be revealed.
In all honesty Sebastian was not what I was expecting at all, I was definitely thinking he would be a typical spy but he was so much more. Although he was confident as a spy around women he was different and I loved the interaction between him and Clarissa.
There were really some great twists in this story, the whole plot was well thought out and executed. I really enjoyed every part of it and would definitely love to read more from this series in the future.
readingwithcats's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
I feel like an outlier here but this book just wasn’t for me. I found Clarissa to be a bog standard Feisty Heroine complete with face slapping & breeches-wearing. And Seb, while mildly better, does something at the end that contradicts everything that the text previously built up about him. Seb is supposed to have these keen powers of observation but can’t tell when Duke What’s His Face is lying about his engagement to Clarissa? Meh, this just wasn’t for me, I guess.
ksmarsden's review against another edition
5.0
Seb has a role to play, if he wants to uncover a smuggling ring. But once Lady Clarissa is on the scene, she could ruin everything... or make everything perfect.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Oooh, that was so much more fun than I was expecting. I loved every page.
We follow Seb Leatham as he is forced to play the role of Lord Millcroft, and mingle with the higher tiers of Society. Not great for a man who'd rather play the servant, than deal with the intricacies and lies of the ton. Not easy, for a man who struggles to speak to women, and can't flirt or charm to save his life.
I loved Seb, he's sweet and definitely one of the good guys. He's a normal guy dropped in the middle of Society, highlighting just how odd it can be.
Lady Clarissa is perfection. She has worked for years to make every move the epitome of grace and elegance; every smile and eye contact enrapturing. She has trained to know the ins and outs of the ton, and has them wrapped around her little finger. All of this is for one aim - to snare a Duke - because anything else would be a waste of her potential.
She meets the real Seb Leatham briefly, when he is recovering from injuring at her friends.
When she meets Seb again, as the supposed "Lord Millcroft" and inadvertently becomes the assistant to his mission. Clarissa sees a chance to help Seb stop the smuggling ring, and to make her Duke jealous enough to push for a final engagement.
I didn't think I was going to like Clarissa, with how shallow she's portrayed to start with; but she becomes so much fun. She's got a good heart, is more intelligent than she allows; and once the challenge is set in front of her, she relishes it.
The plot was awesome, it perfectly balanced the Historical Romance, the Mystery of the smuggling ring, and a thread of warm humour throughout.
I'll definitely be picking up some of Heath's other books.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Oooh, that was so much more fun than I was expecting. I loved every page.
We follow Seb Leatham as he is forced to play the role of Lord Millcroft, and mingle with the higher tiers of Society. Not great for a man who'd rather play the servant, than deal with the intricacies and lies of the ton. Not easy, for a man who struggles to speak to women, and can't flirt or charm to save his life.
I loved Seb, he's sweet and definitely one of the good guys. He's a normal guy dropped in the middle of Society, highlighting just how odd it can be.
Lady Clarissa is perfection. She has worked for years to make every move the epitome of grace and elegance; every smile and eye contact enrapturing. She has trained to know the ins and outs of the ton, and has them wrapped around her little finger. All of this is for one aim - to snare a Duke - because anything else would be a waste of her potential.
She meets the real Seb Leatham briefly, when he is recovering from injuring at her friends.
When she meets Seb again, as the supposed "Lord Millcroft" and inadvertently becomes the assistant to his mission. Clarissa sees a chance to help Seb stop the smuggling ring, and to make her Duke jealous enough to push for a final engagement.
I didn't think I was going to like Clarissa, with how shallow she's portrayed to start with; but she becomes so much fun. She's got a good heart, is more intelligent than she allows; and once the challenge is set in front of her, she relishes it.
The plot was awesome, it perfectly balanced the Historical Romance, the Mystery of the smuggling ring, and a thread of warm humour throughout.
I'll definitely be picking up some of Heath's other books.
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