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The Scarlet Chronicles #2
Traitor in Her Arms
Two morally compromised souls wage a battle of wits—and seduction—against the backdrop of the French Revolution in this thrilling romance from bestselling author Shana Galen.
After her late husband leaves her in debt to some dangerous people, Lady Gabrielle McCullough is forced to become a thief. In the intervening years, her skills have not gone unnoticed. After being recruited by the Scarlet Pimpernel, the mysterious do-gooder spiriting aristocrats out of revolutionary France, Gabrielle crosses the Channel for the most daring mission of her life. Accompanying her is the Earl of Sedgwick, a thief in his own right and an enticingly masculine presence. The man is not to be trusted—nor is Gabrielle’s body when he’s near.
Ramsey Barnes would not say he is an honorable man. His whole life has been based on a lie; why change now? Although it pains him to deceive the tantalizing Gabrielle, he’s working toward an altogether different objective: unmasking the Scarlet Pimpernel. If Ramsey fails, his blackmailer will ruin him. But when Ramsey’s confronted with the carnage of the Reign of Terror, he seeks refuge in Gabrielle’s heated embrace. Now he faces a terrible choice: betray the woman who’s stolen his heart—or risk losing everything.
This standalone novel includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
After her late husband leaves her in debt to some dangerous people, Lady Gabrielle McCullough is forced to become a thief. In the intervening years, her skills have not gone unnoticed. After being recruited by the Scarlet Pimpernel, the mysterious do-gooder spiriting aristocrats out of revolutionary France, Gabrielle crosses the Channel for the most daring mission of her life. Accompanying her is the Earl of Sedgwick, a thief in his own right and an enticingly masculine presence. The man is not to be trusted—nor is Gabrielle’s body when he’s near.
Ramsey Barnes would not say he is an honorable man. His whole life has been based on a lie; why change now? Although it pains him to deceive the tantalizing Gabrielle, he’s working toward an altogether different objective: unmasking the Scarlet Pimpernel. If Ramsey fails, his blackmailer will ruin him. But when Ramsey’s confronted with the carnage of the Reign of Terror, he seeks refuge in Gabrielle’s heated embrace. Now he faces a terrible choice: betray the woman who’s stolen his heart—or risk losing everything.
This standalone novel includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2017
About the author
Shana Galen
80 books1,478 followersShana Galen is three-time Rita award nominee and the bestselling author of fast-paced, witty, and adventurous Regency romances. Kirkus says of her books, "The road to happily-ever-after is intense, conflicted, suspenseful and fun," and RT Bookreviews calls her books “lighthearted yet poignant, humorous yet touching." She taught English at the middle and high school level off and on for eleven years. Most of those years were spent working in Houston's inner city. Now she writes full time. She's happily married and has a daughter who is most definitely a romance heroine in the making.
Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com and sign up to be notified when Shana has a new release http://bit.ly/ShanaGalenNews
Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com and sign up to be notified when Shana has a new release http://bit.ly/ShanaGalenNews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
May 29, 2017
Series: The Scarlet Chronicles #1
Publication Date: August 22, 2017
Galen’s captivating descriptions paint a picture of Paris during the French Revolution that just sucks you right into the time and place. Breath coming fast, heart pounding, blood racing – you won’t be able to put it down once you start reading.
I’d like to address one thing right from the start. I have read several reviews that complained that the romance wasn’t front and center in this book. I sort of thought so too – at first. Then, I thought about it awhile and realized that there can’t be anything much more romantic than a man braving the horror that was Paris during the revolution – because he wanted to keep a woman safe. Yes, there were other factors involved, but keeping her safe and protected was at the front of everything he did. So, to me the romance was as front and center as the intrigue and danger.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough is a childless widow who is now hounded by some very nasty creditors trying to collect on massive debt left by her gambling husband. She has no money and no way of paying these creditors – one of whom wants to sell her into prostitution to recoup his debt. Gabrielle turns to theft in order to stave them off and she has become a very adept lock picker and thief. When she is approached by the Scarlet Pimpernel to take on a rescue mission in Paris, she decides to do it.
Lord Sedgewick is living a lie and he’s being blackmailed to keep that lie a secret. His blackmailer is a sleazy lady with tentacles everywhere and she wants to know the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. She tells Ramsey that she’ll turn over all of the incriminating documents to him if he will go to Paris and uncover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. Ramsey feels he doesn’t have a choice because the lives of his family, tenants and the local village depends on him.
Gabrielle and Ramsey are drawn to each other in the backdrop of the intrigue, suspense, danger and ghoulishness of the Reign Of Terror during the French Revolution. They learn to love and trust each other, but that love and trust are hard won because they are both very flawed individuals dealing with extremely stressful times. The descriptions of the streets of Paris, the prison conditions, the mob rule and blood thirst are so captivating that you will shiver with dread of what might come next. How can they survive this ordeal, escape Paris and stay in love? You’ll have to read it to see.
One thing I question is the reason for Gabrielle having to be responsible for her husband’s debt. Her husband was a viscount and he had no sons. So, some other male heir would have inherited the title and the debts along with it rather than the widow. That male heir would also have inherited responsibility for seeing after Gabrielle. Anyway – that didn’t really bother me because the story was so good – but – I did question it!
"I requested and received this book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: August 22, 2017
Galen’s captivating descriptions paint a picture of Paris during the French Revolution that just sucks you right into the time and place. Breath coming fast, heart pounding, blood racing – you won’t be able to put it down once you start reading.
I’d like to address one thing right from the start. I have read several reviews that complained that the romance wasn’t front and center in this book. I sort of thought so too – at first. Then, I thought about it awhile and realized that there can’t be anything much more romantic than a man braving the horror that was Paris during the revolution – because he wanted to keep a woman safe. Yes, there were other factors involved, but keeping her safe and protected was at the front of everything he did. So, to me the romance was as front and center as the intrigue and danger.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough is a childless widow who is now hounded by some very nasty creditors trying to collect on massive debt left by her gambling husband. She has no money and no way of paying these creditors – one of whom wants to sell her into prostitution to recoup his debt. Gabrielle turns to theft in order to stave them off and she has become a very adept lock picker and thief. When she is approached by the Scarlet Pimpernel to take on a rescue mission in Paris, she decides to do it.
Lord Sedgewick is living a lie and he’s being blackmailed to keep that lie a secret. His blackmailer is a sleazy lady with tentacles everywhere and she wants to know the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. She tells Ramsey that she’ll turn over all of the incriminating documents to him if he will go to Paris and uncover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. Ramsey feels he doesn’t have a choice because the lives of his family, tenants and the local village depends on him.
Gabrielle and Ramsey are drawn to each other in the backdrop of the intrigue, suspense, danger and ghoulishness of the Reign Of Terror during the French Revolution. They learn to love and trust each other, but that love and trust are hard won because they are both very flawed individuals dealing with extremely stressful times. The descriptions of the streets of Paris, the prison conditions, the mob rule and blood thirst are so captivating that you will shiver with dread of what might come next. How can they survive this ordeal, escape Paris and stay in love? You’ll have to read it to see.
One thing I question is the reason for Gabrielle having to be responsible for her husband’s debt. Her husband was a viscount and he had no sons. So, some other male heir would have inherited the title and the debts along with it rather than the widow. That male heir would also have inherited responsibility for seeing after Gabrielle. Anyway – that didn’t really bother me because the story was so good – but – I did question it!
"I requested and received this book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
September 14, 2017
3.5 stars/ C+
Traitor in Her Arms, the first book in Shana Galen’s new Scarlet Chronicles series, takes place in Revolutionary France and features two individuals who are sent to Paris to undertake two very different and dangerous missions in order to fulfil debts owed to a pair of less than scrupulous characters back in England. A novel set in France at a momentous time in history featuring spies, feats of derring-do, a central couple who are keeping secrets and the Scarlet Pimpernel himself sounded right up my street; but while I enjoyed it for the most part, there were a few things about it that didn’t quite gel and prevented me from rating it any more highly.
The widowed Lady Gabrielle McCullough was left destitute when her husband died, and worse, is being hounded by a ruthless man who will not hesitate to hurt her if she fails to pay her late husband’s gambling debts. Having no way of raising such a large sum, Gabrielle has resorted to thievery; with the help of her housekeeper, who taught her to pick locks, and her staunch friend, Lady Diana, the daughter of the Duke of Exeter, Gabrielle has been stealing jewellery from various ladies of the ton in order to pay off the debt. She doesn’t steal from anyone who can’t afford it, but still, stealing is stealing; she doesn’t like it, but it’s that or end up working off the debt on her back in a brothel.
But at last, the end is in sight. If she can filch the lapis-lazuli necklace believed to have been owned by Cleopatra, the money she will make from it will be enough to set her free. She attends the ball given by the necklace’s owner and makes short work of breaking into the room in which the necklace is kept, only to discover that she has been beaten to it by Ramsey Barnes, the Earl of Sedgwick. Gabrielle has no idea what he could possibly want with the jewellery and tries to relieve him of it, but the charged atmosphere between them is impossible to ignore and she succumbs to a kiss – which she later realises he used to distract her and to regain possession of the necklace.
Gabrielle has no idea that Ramsey is in a not too dissimilar position to herself, although unlike her, his situation is largely of his own making. He is being blackmailed by someone who has discovered his deepest, darkest secret, something which could lead to his being condemned to death if it is ever exposed, and intends to use the necklace to buy her off once and for all. But she refuses to trade and ups the stakes, telllng Ramsey that she will only hand over the incriminating documents if he agrees to discover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel.
London is rife with stories of the man who is rescuing aristocrats from under the nose of Madame la Guillotine, but many believe him to be merely a myth. Gabrielle is among their number – until the evening she is approached by him in secret, and asked to perform a service which will mean great personal danger, but which, if successful, will mean freedom for a young woman and her daughter and a new life in England. The prison commander at La Force prison in Paris has agreed to smuggle out the Comtesse de Tonnerre and her infant daughter in exchange for Le Saphir Blanc, a bracelet containing an incredibly rare white sapphire that was commissioned by Louis XIV but which went missing in one of the raids on Versailles. For this job, the Pimpernel needs a skilled thief, and from what he has heard, Gabrielle fits the bill.
Gabrielle is a mess of different emotions. Flattered to have been asked, scared at the thought of the danger she might face in a Paris gone mad... but mostly relieved that here is an opportunity to get out of England and out from under the threat of her late husband’s creditors. She takes the mission and makes arrangements to leave for Paris as soon as possible.
Of course, Gabrielle and Ramsey end up taking the same ship for France, both of them being cagey about their reasons for going at such a time. Each begins by viewing their mission as either an impersonal but necessary task (Ramsey) or a noble quest to save innocent lives (Gabrielle), but their outlooks change quickly once they have entered a Paris in which the streets really do run with rivers of blood. Ms. Galen’s depiction of the horrors of the revolution and of the mood of fear and disquiet that pervades the city and its inhabitants is very evocative, and she doesn’t sugar-coat the fanatical devotion of the new republicans or the violence and destruction that continue to plague the city. The relationship between the couple plays out against this backdrop; they have known each other for a number of years and although Gabrielle was married to Ramsey’s best friend, there has always been a strong undercurrent of attraction between them. This pre-existing situation makes it easier for the reader to believe in that attraction and in their subsequent romance, although to tell the truth, there isn’t a great deal of romantic development in the story - which is not surprising given that Ramsey and Gabrielle are forever looking over their shoulders in fear of discovery. (Mind you, that doesn’t stop them from having sex on the floor of the catacombs!) It’s also rather a big stretch of credulity to believe that the Pimpernel would send someone like Gabrielle on such a mission. She’s supposed to be a super-expert thief, but we never really see that, and it’s quickly obvious that she’s completely out of her depth and just isn’t capable of the kinds of machinations and level of deception that she needs in order to pull off her task successfully. On the one hand, her fears and doubts about what she is setting out to do feel realistic and I applaud the author for showing those to the reader; characters need a little vulnerability otherwise there’s a danger they could become unlikeable. The problem is that Gabrielle almost always needs Ramsey or one of the other characters to help her out of a tight spot, and is following rather than leading. Plus, we know that Ramsey is using Gabrielle to get to the Pimpernel, which doesn’t exactly make for the ideal romantic hero; although it’s very obvious that his principal concern is to keep Gabrielle safe for her own sake and in spite of his ulterior motive.
Ultimately, Gabrielle is fairly bland but Ramsey made more of an impression on me. Stories in which the hero lies to the heroine are difficult to pull off, but Ms. Galen just about manages it here, especially when the reader is made privy to the secret that has come back to bite him in the arse and the reasons behind it. He made… let’s call it an unwise decision for altruistic reasons when he was a much younger man and exposure will risk more than his own neck.
The weaknesses in Gabrielle’s characterisation and Ramsey’s not-always-palatable motivations are the main reasons for my not rating the book more highly, although a couple of smaller things bugged me, too, such as the overly-chummy housekeeper and the fact that I couldn’t help wondering why, when so many historicals feature men landed in debt thanks to their profligate predecessors, Gabrielle’s late husband’s debts hadn’t been ‘inherited’ by his heir? When push comes to shove however, I did enjoy the story and will look out for the next one as the adventure portion of Traitor in Her Arms is very well done. I’d like a bit more actual romance next time, though.
Traitor in Her Arms, the first book in Shana Galen’s new Scarlet Chronicles series, takes place in Revolutionary France and features two individuals who are sent to Paris to undertake two very different and dangerous missions in order to fulfil debts owed to a pair of less than scrupulous characters back in England. A novel set in France at a momentous time in history featuring spies, feats of derring-do, a central couple who are keeping secrets and the Scarlet Pimpernel himself sounded right up my street; but while I enjoyed it for the most part, there were a few things about it that didn’t quite gel and prevented me from rating it any more highly.
The widowed Lady Gabrielle McCullough was left destitute when her husband died, and worse, is being hounded by a ruthless man who will not hesitate to hurt her if she fails to pay her late husband’s gambling debts. Having no way of raising such a large sum, Gabrielle has resorted to thievery; with the help of her housekeeper, who taught her to pick locks, and her staunch friend, Lady Diana, the daughter of the Duke of Exeter, Gabrielle has been stealing jewellery from various ladies of the ton in order to pay off the debt. She doesn’t steal from anyone who can’t afford it, but still, stealing is stealing; she doesn’t like it, but it’s that or end up working off the debt on her back in a brothel.
But at last, the end is in sight. If she can filch the lapis-lazuli necklace believed to have been owned by Cleopatra, the money she will make from it will be enough to set her free. She attends the ball given by the necklace’s owner and makes short work of breaking into the room in which the necklace is kept, only to discover that she has been beaten to it by Ramsey Barnes, the Earl of Sedgwick. Gabrielle has no idea what he could possibly want with the jewellery and tries to relieve him of it, but the charged atmosphere between them is impossible to ignore and she succumbs to a kiss – which she later realises he used to distract her and to regain possession of the necklace.
Gabrielle has no idea that Ramsey is in a not too dissimilar position to herself, although unlike her, his situation is largely of his own making. He is being blackmailed by someone who has discovered his deepest, darkest secret, something which could lead to his being condemned to death if it is ever exposed, and intends to use the necklace to buy her off once and for all. But she refuses to trade and ups the stakes, telllng Ramsey that she will only hand over the incriminating documents if he agrees to discover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel.
London is rife with stories of the man who is rescuing aristocrats from under the nose of Madame la Guillotine, but many believe him to be merely a myth. Gabrielle is among their number – until the evening she is approached by him in secret, and asked to perform a service which will mean great personal danger, but which, if successful, will mean freedom for a young woman and her daughter and a new life in England. The prison commander at La Force prison in Paris has agreed to smuggle out the Comtesse de Tonnerre and her infant daughter in exchange for Le Saphir Blanc, a bracelet containing an incredibly rare white sapphire that was commissioned by Louis XIV but which went missing in one of the raids on Versailles. For this job, the Pimpernel needs a skilled thief, and from what he has heard, Gabrielle fits the bill.
Gabrielle is a mess of different emotions. Flattered to have been asked, scared at the thought of the danger she might face in a Paris gone mad... but mostly relieved that here is an opportunity to get out of England and out from under the threat of her late husband’s creditors. She takes the mission and makes arrangements to leave for Paris as soon as possible.
Of course, Gabrielle and Ramsey end up taking the same ship for France, both of them being cagey about their reasons for going at such a time. Each begins by viewing their mission as either an impersonal but necessary task (Ramsey) or a noble quest to save innocent lives (Gabrielle), but their outlooks change quickly once they have entered a Paris in which the streets really do run with rivers of blood. Ms. Galen’s depiction of the horrors of the revolution and of the mood of fear and disquiet that pervades the city and its inhabitants is very evocative, and she doesn’t sugar-coat the fanatical devotion of the new republicans or the violence and destruction that continue to plague the city. The relationship between the couple plays out against this backdrop; they have known each other for a number of years and although Gabrielle was married to Ramsey’s best friend, there has always been a strong undercurrent of attraction between them. This pre-existing situation makes it easier for the reader to believe in that attraction and in their subsequent romance, although to tell the truth, there isn’t a great deal of romantic development in the story - which is not surprising given that Ramsey and Gabrielle are forever looking over their shoulders in fear of discovery. (Mind you, that doesn’t stop them from having sex on the floor of the catacombs!) It’s also rather a big stretch of credulity to believe that the Pimpernel would send someone like Gabrielle on such a mission. She’s supposed to be a super-expert thief, but we never really see that, and it’s quickly obvious that she’s completely out of her depth and just isn’t capable of the kinds of machinations and level of deception that she needs in order to pull off her task successfully. On the one hand, her fears and doubts about what she is setting out to do feel realistic and I applaud the author for showing those to the reader; characters need a little vulnerability otherwise there’s a danger they could become unlikeable. The problem is that Gabrielle almost always needs Ramsey or one of the other characters to help her out of a tight spot, and is following rather than leading. Plus, we know that Ramsey is using Gabrielle to get to the Pimpernel, which doesn’t exactly make for the ideal romantic hero; although it’s very obvious that his principal concern is to keep Gabrielle safe for her own sake and in spite of his ulterior motive.
Ultimately, Gabrielle is fairly bland but Ramsey made more of an impression on me. Stories in which the hero lies to the heroine are difficult to pull off, but Ms. Galen just about manages it here, especially when the reader is made privy to the secret that has come back to bite him in the arse and the reasons behind it. He made… let’s call it an unwise decision for altruistic reasons when he was a much younger man and exposure will risk more than his own neck.
The weaknesses in Gabrielle’s characterisation and Ramsey’s not-always-palatable motivations are the main reasons for my not rating the book more highly, although a couple of smaller things bugged me, too, such as the overly-chummy housekeeper and the fact that I couldn’t help wondering why, when so many historicals feature men landed in debt thanks to their profligate predecessors, Gabrielle’s late husband’s debts hadn’t been ‘inherited’ by his heir? When push comes to shove however, I did enjoy the story and will look out for the next one as the adventure portion of Traitor in Her Arms is very well done. I’d like a bit more actual romance next time, though.
March 22, 2017
I loved this story so much I was doubly glad that it was a long one because I could enjoy it for more reading hours. Two unlikely people, two thieves, are nonetheless drawn to each other despite their dire circumstances in life. From their first meeting at a ball where they are both attempting to steal jewelry, Ramsey and Gabrielle “play with fire” while dodging creditors and cutthroats in England and Reign of Terror gendarmes in Paris during their daring-do to rescue a couple of citizens from the guillotine. Their experiences along the way are so spectacular and scary they are legendary…and through it all they remained steadfast with each other. This is indeed a swoon-worthy romance. I received a pre-published copy of this book from NetGalley.
August 6, 2017
This is a wonderfully complex, compelling book that will keep you up reading it. I will admit that I have always liked the Scarlet Pimpernel story so I enjoyed his appearance in this book. This story contains a wonderful romance, danger, blackmail and accurate history.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough has become a thief to pay her late husband’s debts to some unsavory creditors. Ramsey Barnes, Earl of Sedgwick, is living a lie and will do anything to protect his secret. Gabrielle’s late husband was Ramsey’s friend so they are well acquainted.
While attending a ball, Gabrielle is tricked into entering a room and meets, in darkness, a man she believes to be the Scarlet Pimpernel. He wants her for a mission to rescue a mother and child from Paris. Meanwhile, the woman who knows Ramsey’s secret is blackmailing him to discover the Scarlet Pimpernel’s secret. Meeting each other on the ship to France, he insists they travel to Paris together.
Paris is where the story really happens and it is too good for me to spoil. I highly recommend this book. Thanks to Shana Galen and the publisher for the ARC. No one has asked me to write a favorable review, but I loved it!
Lady Gabrielle McCullough has become a thief to pay her late husband’s debts to some unsavory creditors. Ramsey Barnes, Earl of Sedgwick, is living a lie and will do anything to protect his secret. Gabrielle’s late husband was Ramsey’s friend so they are well acquainted.
While attending a ball, Gabrielle is tricked into entering a room and meets, in darkness, a man she believes to be the Scarlet Pimpernel. He wants her for a mission to rescue a mother and child from Paris. Meanwhile, the woman who knows Ramsey’s secret is blackmailing him to discover the Scarlet Pimpernel’s secret. Meeting each other on the ship to France, he insists they travel to Paris together.
Paris is where the story really happens and it is too good for me to spoil. I highly recommend this book. Thanks to Shana Galen and the publisher for the ARC. No one has asked me to write a favorable review, but I loved it!
July 27, 2017
PRE-RELEASE REVIEW - Publication Date: 22 August 2017
I really enjoyed this first book in Shana Galen’s new The Scarlett Chronicles series. Set during the French Revolution, it combines a well-written, action-packed story, with intriguing, flawed characters and a passionate romance. I have always loved the idea that the Scarlet Pimpernel actually existed and the fact that Ms. Galen uses that premise in this new series, only enhanced my enjoyment of this book.
Gabrielle is not a thief by choice but by necessity. Her late husband was a heavy gambler and left large gambling debts and his creditors are hounding her for payment. If he doesn’t receive payment, one particularly unsavoury creditor has threated to exact payment in another way. It is either stealing or end up in a brothel!
Her expertise as a thief has been noticed by the Scarlet Pimpernel who wants her to travel to Paris to rescue the wife and daughter of the compte de Tonnerre, a close friend of the King. I love Gabrielle’s courage and compassion in agreeing to do it.
How could she refuse this desperate man? How could she allow a woman to be murdered and her child orphaned in a cold, harsh prison?
Ramsey has a secret which, if revealed, would cost him his life and bring suffering to those he loves. Unfortunately, a certain Madame Fouchet has incriminating documents which she is using to blackmail him into doing her bidding. He hates being under her control but has no choice because he will do whatever it takes to protect his family and those who depend on him. His latest assignment is to discover the identity of the Scarlett Pimpernel.
There had once been an undeniable attraction between Gabrielle and Ramsey and, after they shared a passionate interlude together, Ramsey was on the verge of asking her to marry him. However, when he failed to declare his intentions, Gabrielle married his best friend, George. Now, events are about to throw them together again which only serves to reignite and intensify that attraction.
When Ramsey discovers both he and Gabrielle are both going to Paris, he persuades her that she needs his help but intends to use her to uncover the Scarlet Pimpernel’s identity. I enjoyed seeing Ramsey’s struggle with his conflicting emotions. He has never thought of himself as loyal, noble or honourable but he is. Time and again, he could leave Gabrielle but he can’t because she means too much to him.
At some point, protecting her had become more important than protecting himself.
Some reviewers have criticised the book for its lack of romance, but I can’t imagine anything more romantic than a man willing to give his life for the woman he loves.
By his own admission, Gabrielle should not trust Ramsey, but his actions are continually at odds with his words. He is always there to protect her when she needs him, and shows compassion for people in a Paris prison whom he has never met. I like how she realises that she had no right to pass judgement on Ramsey for stealing and lying, when she has been guilty of the same thing herself, and his motives were far nobler than her own.
Who was she to judge? And hadn’t his motives been much nobler than hers? She had only wanted to save herself. He had an entire family, an entire estate, to think of.
The sexual tension between these two is palpable…
He rose hastily, fists clenched and jaw tight, and she realized he was angry. “Neither are you. You practically attack me when we come in here, and when I resist, you stand naked before me.” He paced, speaking quick, clipped English. “And then when I capitulate, you tell me no. What the hell is this?”
…and the danger only intensifies their desire for each other culminating in some highly charged love scenes.
I like how Ms. Galen includes moments of humour in the story which help to provide a welcome counter-balance to the darker elements of the story. My favourite scene is where Ramsey becomes somewhat distracted by Gabrielle’s disguise.
“I thought it might make movement easier in case we need to leave quickly.”
You’re wearing breeches. He almost said it again before he realized he’d already pointed that out.
“Don’t you agree?” she asked.
“I . . .” You’re wearing breeches. He finally looked up. She was wearing a man’s shirt and coat as well. “Where are your…?” He gestured helplessly at her shirt.
The plot has plenty of suspense, action and danger, and there were times when I was literally holding my breath, wondering what would happen next. I felt Ms. Galen resolved the issue of Ramsey’s ‘secret’ in a believable way.
Ms. Galen brought the chilling horrors of the Reign of Terror vividly to life and I could feel the blood lust of the crowd as the tumbrels rolled past and share the despair and hopelessness of the poor prisoners.
Certain members of the Scarlet Pimpernel’s League are introduced including Alexandra Martin (Alex), Gabrielle and Ramsey’s contact in Paris, who plays an important role in the story and really impressed me as a very smart and brave woman, worthy of her own story.
Gabrielle couldn’t help but wonder to whom the Pimpernel’s note was addressed – my sentiments exactly!
MY VERDICT: If you are looking for a fast-paced adventure combined with a passionate romance, then you will enjoy TRAITOR IN HER ARMS.
The Scarlet Chronicles series so far (click on the book covers for more details):
**I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. **
This review was first posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
I really enjoyed this first book in Shana Galen’s new The Scarlett Chronicles series. Set during the French Revolution, it combines a well-written, action-packed story, with intriguing, flawed characters and a passionate romance. I have always loved the idea that the Scarlet Pimpernel actually existed and the fact that Ms. Galen uses that premise in this new series, only enhanced my enjoyment of this book.
Gabrielle is not a thief by choice but by necessity. Her late husband was a heavy gambler and left large gambling debts and his creditors are hounding her for payment. If he doesn’t receive payment, one particularly unsavoury creditor has threated to exact payment in another way. It is either stealing or end up in a brothel!
Her expertise as a thief has been noticed by the Scarlet Pimpernel who wants her to travel to Paris to rescue the wife and daughter of the compte de Tonnerre, a close friend of the King. I love Gabrielle’s courage and compassion in agreeing to do it.
How could she refuse this desperate man? How could she allow a woman to be murdered and her child orphaned in a cold, harsh prison?
Ramsey has a secret which, if revealed, would cost him his life and bring suffering to those he loves. Unfortunately, a certain Madame Fouchet has incriminating documents which she is using to blackmail him into doing her bidding. He hates being under her control but has no choice because he will do whatever it takes to protect his family and those who depend on him. His latest assignment is to discover the identity of the Scarlett Pimpernel.
There had once been an undeniable attraction between Gabrielle and Ramsey and, after they shared a passionate interlude together, Ramsey was on the verge of asking her to marry him. However, when he failed to declare his intentions, Gabrielle married his best friend, George. Now, events are about to throw them together again which only serves to reignite and intensify that attraction.
When Ramsey discovers both he and Gabrielle are both going to Paris, he persuades her that she needs his help but intends to use her to uncover the Scarlet Pimpernel’s identity. I enjoyed seeing Ramsey’s struggle with his conflicting emotions. He has never thought of himself as loyal, noble or honourable but he is. Time and again, he could leave Gabrielle but he can’t because she means too much to him.
At some point, protecting her had become more important than protecting himself.
Some reviewers have criticised the book for its lack of romance, but I can’t imagine anything more romantic than a man willing to give his life for the woman he loves.
By his own admission, Gabrielle should not trust Ramsey, but his actions are continually at odds with his words. He is always there to protect her when she needs him, and shows compassion for people in a Paris prison whom he has never met. I like how she realises that she had no right to pass judgement on Ramsey for stealing and lying, when she has been guilty of the same thing herself, and his motives were far nobler than her own.
Who was she to judge? And hadn’t his motives been much nobler than hers? She had only wanted to save herself. He had an entire family, an entire estate, to think of.
The sexual tension between these two is palpable…
He rose hastily, fists clenched and jaw tight, and she realized he was angry. “Neither are you. You practically attack me when we come in here, and when I resist, you stand naked before me.” He paced, speaking quick, clipped English. “And then when I capitulate, you tell me no. What the hell is this?”
…and the danger only intensifies their desire for each other culminating in some highly charged love scenes.
I like how Ms. Galen includes moments of humour in the story which help to provide a welcome counter-balance to the darker elements of the story. My favourite scene is where Ramsey becomes somewhat distracted by Gabrielle’s disguise.
“I thought it might make movement easier in case we need to leave quickly.”
You’re wearing breeches. He almost said it again before he realized he’d already pointed that out.
“Don’t you agree?” she asked.
“I . . .” You’re wearing breeches. He finally looked up. She was wearing a man’s shirt and coat as well. “Where are your…?” He gestured helplessly at her shirt.
The plot has plenty of suspense, action and danger, and there were times when I was literally holding my breath, wondering what would happen next. I felt Ms. Galen resolved the issue of Ramsey’s ‘secret’ in a believable way.
Ms. Galen brought the chilling horrors of the Reign of Terror vividly to life and I could feel the blood lust of the crowd as the tumbrels rolled past and share the despair and hopelessness of the poor prisoners.
Certain members of the Scarlet Pimpernel’s League are introduced including Alexandra Martin (Alex), Gabrielle and Ramsey’s contact in Paris, who plays an important role in the story and really impressed me as a very smart and brave woman, worthy of her own story.
Gabrielle couldn’t help but wonder to whom the Pimpernel’s note was addressed – my sentiments exactly!
MY VERDICT: If you are looking for a fast-paced adventure combined with a passionate romance, then you will enjoy TRAITOR IN HER ARMS.
The Scarlet Chronicles series so far (click on the book covers for more details):
**I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. **
This review was first posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
August 28, 2017
In Shana Galen’s latest book Traitor in Her Arms the legendary Scarlett Pimpernel and his mission to save French nobles during the Revolution is the catalyst to many events in the story. I was surprised how little we see of the man himself but he still plays a very important role. Two secret quests, one to save an innocent woman’s life and the other to learn the Pimpernel’s true identity bring heroine and hero together under the best and worst of circumstances.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough has a secret. The debts her late husband left behind put her on the verge of ruin but she’s been hiding the truth with the assistance of a wealthy friend. When selling paintings and family heirlooms wasn’t enough to settle things with a few unscrupulous money lenders, Gabrielle turned to thievery. Her skills have grown over time and she’s managed to grab more than a few choice pieces while attending the social gatherings of the Season. Her next target is an antique lapis lazuli necklace that belonged to Cleopatra which should earn her enough to pay off the final creditor. Breaking into the owner’s room to collect the necklace wasn’t a problem; however her task is complicated when she finds another thief is already in the room and has grabbed the jewels.
Ramsey Barnes, the Earl of Sedgewick hasn’t been very honest with the ton himself. Most of his deceptions are fairly harmless but when someone learns his deepest secret, Ramsey could face ruin. Unwilling to risk his lands and the people who depend on the earldom, Ramsay hopes that he can steal the rare and valuable necklace to bribe his blackmailer to give up her evidence against him. With the piece in hand Ramsay never expected Gabrielle McCullough to appear in the room on a similar mission to take the necklace. Ramsey distracts Gabrielle with a kiss and leaves the building with the jewels but all his effort is pointless when his blackmailer refuses to trade. Instead she uses her power over Ramsey to force him on an almost impossible mission with the promise of his freedom when the task is complete. With no other options Ramsey accepts her challenge to learn the true identity of the elusive Scarlett Pimpernel.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
Lady Gabrielle McCullough has a secret. The debts her late husband left behind put her on the verge of ruin but she’s been hiding the truth with the assistance of a wealthy friend. When selling paintings and family heirlooms wasn’t enough to settle things with a few unscrupulous money lenders, Gabrielle turned to thievery. Her skills have grown over time and she’s managed to grab more than a few choice pieces while attending the social gatherings of the Season. Her next target is an antique lapis lazuli necklace that belonged to Cleopatra which should earn her enough to pay off the final creditor. Breaking into the owner’s room to collect the necklace wasn’t a problem; however her task is complicated when she finds another thief is already in the room and has grabbed the jewels.
Ramsey Barnes, the Earl of Sedgewick hasn’t been very honest with the ton himself. Most of his deceptions are fairly harmless but when someone learns his deepest secret, Ramsey could face ruin. Unwilling to risk his lands and the people who depend on the earldom, Ramsay hopes that he can steal the rare and valuable necklace to bribe his blackmailer to give up her evidence against him. With the piece in hand Ramsay never expected Gabrielle McCullough to appear in the room on a similar mission to take the necklace. Ramsey distracts Gabrielle with a kiss and leaves the building with the jewels but all his effort is pointless when his blackmailer refuses to trade. Instead she uses her power over Ramsey to force him on an almost impossible mission with the promise of his freedom when the task is complete. With no other options Ramsey accepts her challenge to learn the true identity of the elusive Scarlett Pimpernel.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
August 13, 2017
The first book in the new Scarlet Chronicles Series is an action packed adventure with heart stopping peril, steamy sex, and a truly wonderful love story. What would you have done if the Scarlet Pimpernel contacted you and asked you to go France during the revolution and steal a valuable piece of jewelry to bribe the warden to free a mother and her child? Gabrielle has had to learn how to survive to keep a roof over her head since her husband died and left her buried in debt. She is strong, stubborn and fearless.
Ramsey, Lord Sedgwick is living a lie. If he is found out he will hang. Only one person knows his secret, a Madam who expects him to do what she wants whenever she wants. Now she wants to know the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. Sedgwick, even though he has secrets is still a good and honorable hero who only wants to help his tenants and his family.
Gabrielle and Ramsey wind up reluctant partners on the journey to France. Both keeping their secrets close. They find themselves in lust with each other and give into their passions. But is it just lust or something stronger. They will have to trust each other with their deepest darkest secrets.
I am a big fan of Shana's writing. The first book of hers that I read was "When You Give A Duke A Diamond", and I was hooked. Her characters are strong and intelligent. Her stories are not the same old romance plots. This book is a perfect example of using historical events and weaving in a story that will enjoy till the very end. This one is a keeper!
Ramsey, Lord Sedgwick is living a lie. If he is found out he will hang. Only one person knows his secret, a Madam who expects him to do what she wants whenever she wants. Now she wants to know the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. Sedgwick, even though he has secrets is still a good and honorable hero who only wants to help his tenants and his family.
Gabrielle and Ramsey wind up reluctant partners on the journey to France. Both keeping their secrets close. They find themselves in lust with each other and give into their passions. But is it just lust or something stronger. They will have to trust each other with their deepest darkest secrets.
I am a big fan of Shana's writing. The first book of hers that I read was "When You Give A Duke A Diamond", and I was hooked. Her characters are strong and intelligent. Her stories are not the same old romance plots. This book is a perfect example of using historical events and weaving in a story that will enjoy till the very end. This one is a keeper!
August 30, 2017
Fair warning; if a Regency novel also includes stories about the legendary Scarlet Pimpernel, I'm probably going to squee over it. If it's also written by Shana Galen, one of the finest writers in the Regency genre today, it's pretty much a sure-fire winner.
So when I saw Traitor In Her Arms available for review on NetGalley, I pounced to click and then crossed my fingers to be selected.
I was not disappointed. This is a fabulous Regency romp with plenty of drama and deeper themes underlying the fun. The scenes set in Paris were terribly poignant, especially those of the French aristocrats going to the guillotine; Galen captures the pathos of the moment and the atmosphere of a city at war against itself perfectly.
Ramsey, Earl of Sedgewick, is hiding a secret he will go to any lengths to protect. The fact that protecting his secret and protecting Lady Gabrielle McCullough as she undertakes a mission of her own to Paris align, is just fate as far as he is concerned. Until his conscience starts to niggle and he realizes that some things really are worth dying for.
Gabrielle McCullough has a secret too. Left in dire straits by her wastrel husband, she has turned to thievery to keep his creditors from her throat. Specializing in the theft of rare artifacts, when the Scarlet Pimpernel himself recruits her to steal a rare piece that is the only hope for a French countess and her daughter to escape the guillotine, Gabrielle sees little choice but to accept.
This is one point where the story fell down a little for me. Gabrielle has an opportunity in the first few pages of the story to steal a duchess' entire jewelry collection - described as 'a treasure of rubies, emeralds, sapphires and diamonds' but she ignores the whole lot in favor of getting the single piece she has been commissioned to steal. Since this single piece still wouldn't clear the whole of her debts, even if she found it, I couldn't comprehend why she didn't grab a handful of the rest. Not doing so left her vulnerable to the creditors who all wanted their pound of flesh. I have no doubt that the villainous 'Mr Pin' would have happily accepted a diamond necklace as part payment.
That point didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story, but it did strain my credulity when it came to other things I was just expected to accept for the story's sake. I found myself examining Gabrielle and Ramsey's decisions critically and thinking that they weren't acting logically. So while I enjoyed the book, I can't really say that I loved it, and therefore I am awarding it 4 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
So when I saw Traitor In Her Arms available for review on NetGalley, I pounced to click and then crossed my fingers to be selected.
I was not disappointed. This is a fabulous Regency romp with plenty of drama and deeper themes underlying the fun. The scenes set in Paris were terribly poignant, especially those of the French aristocrats going to the guillotine; Galen captures the pathos of the moment and the atmosphere of a city at war against itself perfectly.
Ramsey, Earl of Sedgewick, is hiding a secret he will go to any lengths to protect. The fact that protecting his secret and protecting Lady Gabrielle McCullough as she undertakes a mission of her own to Paris align, is just fate as far as he is concerned. Until his conscience starts to niggle and he realizes that some things really are worth dying for.
Gabrielle McCullough has a secret too. Left in dire straits by her wastrel husband, she has turned to thievery to keep his creditors from her throat. Specializing in the theft of rare artifacts, when the Scarlet Pimpernel himself recruits her to steal a rare piece that is the only hope for a French countess and her daughter to escape the guillotine, Gabrielle sees little choice but to accept.
This is one point where the story fell down a little for me. Gabrielle has an opportunity in the first few pages of the story to steal a duchess' entire jewelry collection - described as 'a treasure of rubies, emeralds, sapphires and diamonds' but she ignores the whole lot in favor of getting the single piece she has been commissioned to steal. Since this single piece still wouldn't clear the whole of her debts, even if she found it, I couldn't comprehend why she didn't grab a handful of the rest. Not doing so left her vulnerable to the creditors who all wanted their pound of flesh. I have no doubt that the villainous 'Mr Pin' would have happily accepted a diamond necklace as part payment.
That point didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story, but it did strain my credulity when it came to other things I was just expected to accept for the story's sake. I found myself examining Gabrielle and Ramsey's decisions critically and thinking that they weren't acting logically. So while I enjoyed the book, I can't really say that I loved it, and therefore I am awarding it 4 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
May 8, 2018
What I liked:
That Ramsey and Gabrielle had a history and backstory that made it plausible for them to have feelings for one another.
The plot was creative and not the formulaic HR I'm used to reading.
I found both MC's to be likeable.
I wanted to keep reading- I became invested, which has to say something.
It led me to look up a lot of information about the Reign of Terror, a period I really didn't know much about.
The writing is good- clear, descriptive, yet not flowery or OTT.
What didn't work so well for me:
I had a hard time buying that the Scarlet Pimpernel would ask someone like Gabrielle to go on as serious and dangerous a mission as this. How did he even know her situation? It seemed a bit forced and silly. Plus, how likely is it even that she would have been responsible for her late husband's debts? I don't know the rules on that, but I feel like it wouldn't be a given.
The fact that Ramsey's and Gabrielle's missions were so conveniently intertwined. Too convenient.
The fact that Ramsey and Gabrielle keep going at it anywhere and everywhere, even in the midst of serious danger and grossness (see catacombs). It was a bit OTT.
The fact that said amorous activities and the lightness of tone earlier on in the story gave way to some pretty nasty, gory details about people being torn apart and paraded through the streets quickly and without warning. The juxtaposition was a bit jarring.
So. It definitely wasn't perfect, but I ended up liking it more than not and wanting to see it through. If you're willing to overlook a few things and suspend some disbelief, it's not a bad read. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
That Ramsey and Gabrielle had a history and backstory that made it plausible for them to have feelings for one another.
The plot was creative and not the formulaic HR I'm used to reading.
I found both MC's to be likeable.
I wanted to keep reading- I became invested, which has to say something.
It led me to look up a lot of information about the Reign of Terror, a period I really didn't know much about.
The writing is good- clear, descriptive, yet not flowery or OTT.
What didn't work so well for me:
I had a hard time buying that the Scarlet Pimpernel would ask someone like Gabrielle to go on as serious and dangerous a mission as this. How did he even know her situation? It seemed a bit forced and silly. Plus, how likely is it even that she would have been responsible for her late husband's debts? I don't know the rules on that, but I feel like it wouldn't be a given.
The fact that Ramsey's and Gabrielle's missions were so conveniently intertwined. Too convenient.
The fact that Ramsey and Gabrielle keep going at it anywhere and everywhere, even in the midst of serious danger and grossness (see catacombs). It was a bit OTT.
The fact that said amorous activities and the lightness of tone earlier on in the story gave way to some pretty nasty, gory details about people being torn apart and paraded through the streets quickly and without warning. The juxtaposition was a bit jarring.
So. It definitely wasn't perfect, but I ended up liking it more than not and wanting to see it through. If you're willing to overlook a few things and suspend some disbelief, it's not a bad read. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
September 30, 2017
There are times when I wonder at my preferences in books. Visually the sight of blood and gore makes me queasy. I am not particularly fond of gore-filled movies, and often have to look away if it gets too much. Considering my preferences in these areas of life, why do I relish the romances set against a raw, gore-filled background? I honestly don't know, but I do. Historical romance stories set to the back drop of the French Revolution, the terror portion, have been some of my most enjoyable reads. I think I appreciate the juxtaposition of the horribleness of the terror versus the sweetness of falling in love. Galen does a marvelous job here of setting the tone and painting the scene of what it was like in Paris during the terror. The tension shown during these scenes feels real, and it is nicely (or horribly) shown.
I thought the romance was nice, although the hero is one of flexible moral tendencies, he does come around to being a good, honorable hero. The heroine is resilient and strong, and I thought they made a great pair. Not my favorite romance, but it is fitting to the characters and situation and fun to read. The only problem I have was a couple the plot holes, but otherwise a good read if you like a war setting for your next HR.
I thought the romance was nice, although the hero is one of flexible moral tendencies, he does come around to being a good, honorable hero. The heroine is resilient and strong, and I thought they made a great pair. Not my favorite romance, but it is fitting to the characters and situation and fun to read. The only problem I have was a couple the plot holes, but otherwise a good read if you like a war setting for your next HR.
April 6, 2017
Got from NetGallery, for honest review.
I loved the story. I was pulled in and couldn't stop reading. The story made me feel like I was there watching the characters show the story. Loved the chemistry Ramsey and Gabrielle had together. The story it self was well written and had a nice steady pace to it. Also find myself wanting to read more from the author.
Thank you for letting me read your story.
I loved the story. I was pulled in and couldn't stop reading. The story made me feel like I was there watching the characters show the story. Loved the chemistry Ramsey and Gabrielle had together. The story it self was well written and had a nice steady pace to it. Also find myself wanting to read more from the author.
Thank you for letting me read your story.
August 23, 2017
Wow! This was an edge of my seat read unlike any other historical romantic suspense I've read! Just when I thought everyone was safe, a new twist. But even with all the suspense the romance was not lost and in fact was absolutely wonderful and compelling. I cannot wait until the next in the series releases!
April 20, 2017
When I read Historical Romance, I have things I MUST have and Shana Galen provides my prerequisites and then some. I loved this book and can't wait to read it again.
*Received a copy for my honest review.*
*Received a copy for my honest review.*
August 26, 2017
First book in a new series by the author but just as great as any of her other series.
Widowed Gabrielle has no other choice but to resort to thievery to pay off her late husband’s gambling debts or she will have to face a fate much worse than jail. It’s not what she would have wanted to do with her life but at the time there was not much choice left for her. Lord Ramsey never thought Gabrielle would become the remarkable thief she seems to be, but then again they hadn’t talked to each other since before she got married to no other than to one of his good old friends, and way before he got involved in serious troubles of his own.
The love story was fabulous! I was drawn to the couple from page one. The relationship they built felt real and feasible and although there was a clear physical attraction they didn’t jump into each other’s bed at the first chance they got. Gabrielle was smart and cautious and even when she started developing feelings for our hero she didn’t let her emotions rule over her instincts and that to me it’s the best kind of heroine there could possibly exist. Ramsey was charmer with a guilty conscience so although he had a mission of his own and tried to convince himself he only had to care for himself, he always tried to protect Gabrielle as much as he could. He truly was the best kind of rogue.
We know it’s a romance story and that you know, HEA, but the way the city of Paris during the Reign of Terror was described- it seriously gave me goosebumps. The gory details and that feeling of fear that felt so palpable and real, and the fact that the author didn’t shrink away from any of it for the sake of romance made this book an even more rewarding and enjoyable read. It was a great read indeed and I definitely will continue reading the series.
** I received this book from the author at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***
Widowed Gabrielle has no other choice but to resort to thievery to pay off her late husband’s gambling debts or she will have to face a fate much worse than jail. It’s not what she would have wanted to do with her life but at the time there was not much choice left for her. Lord Ramsey never thought Gabrielle would become the remarkable thief she seems to be, but then again they hadn’t talked to each other since before she got married to no other than to one of his good old friends, and way before he got involved in serious troubles of his own.
The love story was fabulous! I was drawn to the couple from page one. The relationship they built felt real and feasible and although there was a clear physical attraction they didn’t jump into each other’s bed at the first chance they got. Gabrielle was smart and cautious and even when she started developing feelings for our hero she didn’t let her emotions rule over her instincts and that to me it’s the best kind of heroine there could possibly exist. Ramsey was charmer with a guilty conscience so although he had a mission of his own and tried to convince himself he only had to care for himself, he always tried to protect Gabrielle as much as he could. He truly was the best kind of rogue.
We know it’s a romance story and that you know, HEA, but the way the city of Paris during the Reign of Terror was described- it seriously gave me goosebumps. The gory details and that feeling of fear that felt so palpable and real, and the fact that the author didn’t shrink away from any of it for the sake of romance made this book an even more rewarding and enjoyable read. It was a great read indeed and I definitely will continue reading the series.
** I received this book from the author at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***
March 20, 2017
"Traitor in her Arms" is more suspense and intrigue than a straight romance. Usually the romance takes center-stage while the setting is secondary. Not so in this book. Gabrielle McCullough has been left in debt by her deceased gambling husband and is forced to thievery to raise cash. Ramsey Barnes has a secret that he will do anything to keep, including stealing a priceless necklace. When these two cross paths trying to steal the same item, their long-ago passion for each other sparks again. When Gabrielle is recruited by the Scarlet Pimpernel for a dangerous mission in Paris, Ramsey follows with the intent of unmasking the Pimpernel, his final task for his blackmailer.
What happens next to these two during the Reign of Terror is spine-tingling, edge of your seat action. No one is safe and because they could be sent to the guillotine at any moment, they allow their past feelings to surface once again. Their love-making is as intense as the times and so there is no slow build-up to romance. There were twists and turns in the book that will keep you turning the pages to the end. If you're looking for a romantic love story, this isn't it, but if you like to suspense and intrigue, you'll thoroughly enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
What happens next to these two during the Reign of Terror is spine-tingling, edge of your seat action. No one is safe and because they could be sent to the guillotine at any moment, they allow their past feelings to surface once again. Their love-making is as intense as the times and so there is no slow build-up to romance. There were twists and turns in the book that will keep you turning the pages to the end. If you're looking for a romantic love story, this isn't it, but if you like to suspense and intrigue, you'll thoroughly enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 8, 2017
Traitor in Her Arms is the first book in The Scarlet Chronicles series by Shana Galen.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough is a widow and her late husband has left her up to her ears in debt. His creditors are hounding her, one in particular who has threatened that if she doesn't pay up, he'll kidnap her sell her to a brothel. Her only option of repaying her debts is to become a thief, selling things she steals from the wealthy people whose balls she attends. She's very good at what she does, so much so that she comes under the attention of none other than the Scarlet Pimpernel. Keeping his identity secret he approaches Gabrielle and asks her to help him free an imprisoned women and her daughter in France. The only way to do that is to give one of her jailers a precious jewelled bracelet, one that Gabrielle has to steal. Unfortunately it is in an office in France, so if she agrees to do the mission, she will need to travel to there. She needs to get out of England for a while, and although knowing it's dangerous in France for any aristocrat, she knows she must help the poor woman and her child. Kill two birds with one stone as it were.
Ramsey Barnes has a secret, one that could ruin him and his family if it were to come out. He is being blackmailed and his blackmailer has one last thing for him to do before she will hand over evidence of his secret. He has to go to France to discover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. It's something Ramsey doesn't want to do, how can he give up the identity of the man who is saving countless English people being wrongly persecuted in France. People thrown into prisons, or physically ripped apart by mobs of the French. If he doesn't, his family will be ruined, all because of something he did, and he knows he can't let that happen. His conscience will have to take a back seat, at least for now.
He knows Gabrielle from days of old when they shared a kiss before she married his best friend. He also knows her very recently from when they both attempted to steal the same necklace. Her to sell for the money, him to keep his blackmailer happy.
Circumstance finds them both on the same ship to France, and when Ramsey learns (unknown to Gabrielle) that she is on a mission for the Scarlet Pimpernel, he knows if he keeps close to her he will find the man's identity. At the same time, he can help her steal the jewellery that the jailer wants. It's a win win situation for them both. Not so much for the Pimpernel if indeed Ramsey finds out who he is and informs his blackmailer.
What follows is an intriguing and captivating account of the couples' endeavours to achieve their goals. Of course the more time they spend together, the more their attraction to each other grows, but built on Ramsey's lies, can anything come of their feelings? There are certainly some passionate scenes between them, but passion without being able to trust does not lead to a true love match!
What I really enjoyed about this story is that it was much more than just a romance. There was the excitement of the theft, the concern about Ramsey doing the right thing. The edge of your seat suspense at times when our couple is fleeing for their freedom. Also there is the absolute horror when you read about the mobs literally tearing people apart, limb from limb when they are caught trying to escape from France. The author paints an all too vivid picture of it all. It definitely makes your understand the Scarlet Pimpernel's need to help all the people that he can. This is the first of what I am sure is going to be a fabulous series of stories which I am definitely going to be reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough is a widow and her late husband has left her up to her ears in debt. His creditors are hounding her, one in particular who has threatened that if she doesn't pay up, he'll kidnap her sell her to a brothel. Her only option of repaying her debts is to become a thief, selling things she steals from the wealthy people whose balls she attends. She's very good at what she does, so much so that she comes under the attention of none other than the Scarlet Pimpernel. Keeping his identity secret he approaches Gabrielle and asks her to help him free an imprisoned women and her daughter in France. The only way to do that is to give one of her jailers a precious jewelled bracelet, one that Gabrielle has to steal. Unfortunately it is in an office in France, so if she agrees to do the mission, she will need to travel to there. She needs to get out of England for a while, and although knowing it's dangerous in France for any aristocrat, she knows she must help the poor woman and her child. Kill two birds with one stone as it were.
Ramsey Barnes has a secret, one that could ruin him and his family if it were to come out. He is being blackmailed and his blackmailer has one last thing for him to do before she will hand over evidence of his secret. He has to go to France to discover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. It's something Ramsey doesn't want to do, how can he give up the identity of the man who is saving countless English people being wrongly persecuted in France. People thrown into prisons, or physically ripped apart by mobs of the French. If he doesn't, his family will be ruined, all because of something he did, and he knows he can't let that happen. His conscience will have to take a back seat, at least for now.
He knows Gabrielle from days of old when they shared a kiss before she married his best friend. He also knows her very recently from when they both attempted to steal the same necklace. Her to sell for the money, him to keep his blackmailer happy.
Circumstance finds them both on the same ship to France, and when Ramsey learns (unknown to Gabrielle) that she is on a mission for the Scarlet Pimpernel, he knows if he keeps close to her he will find the man's identity. At the same time, he can help her steal the jewellery that the jailer wants. It's a win win situation for them both. Not so much for the Pimpernel if indeed Ramsey finds out who he is and informs his blackmailer.
What follows is an intriguing and captivating account of the couples' endeavours to achieve their goals. Of course the more time they spend together, the more their attraction to each other grows, but built on Ramsey's lies, can anything come of their feelings? There are certainly some passionate scenes between them, but passion without being able to trust does not lead to a true love match!
What I really enjoyed about this story is that it was much more than just a romance. There was the excitement of the theft, the concern about Ramsey doing the right thing. The edge of your seat suspense at times when our couple is fleeing for their freedom. Also there is the absolute horror when you read about the mobs literally tearing people apart, limb from limb when they are caught trying to escape from France. The author paints an all too vivid picture of it all. It definitely makes your understand the Scarlet Pimpernel's need to help all the people that he can. This is the first of what I am sure is going to be a fabulous series of stories which I am definitely going to be reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
August 20, 2017
Originally reviewed for www.buriedunderromance.com
Traitor in Her Arms, the first novel in the new Scarlet Chronicles series by best-selling author Shana Galen, is a delightful romp through London and Paris in search of the elusive Scarlet Pimpernel of historical infamy. Did he really exist? I’ll let you decide after reading this intriguing look into the French Revolution.
Widow Lady Gabrielle McCullough has to resort to thievery to pay the enormous debts left to her by her late husband. With one evil creditor in particular breathing down her neck, she agrees to steal a very famous necklace at the request of the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel who, it seems, is a fan of her “work.” Although he contacts her only through associates, she is convinced that, not only will she be paid fairly for this one job, but that it will help free an aristocrat mother and daughter imprisoned in Paris and waiting for a date with the guillotine. There is an obvious high level of danger involved, but how could she turn this job down?
Ramsey Barnes, AKA the Earl of Sedgwick, was a friend of Gabrielle’s late husband’s. After a stolen kiss right before her wedding leaves them both wanting more, she is obviously unnerved when she meets him at a ball several years later as they are both trying to steal the same bracelet. Ramsey is trying to hide his past from the public and is he is being blackmailed. The bracelet does not satisfy his blackmailer, however, and he is told to find out the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel to keep her quiet. When Ramsey finds himself on the same boat to France as Gabrielle and he also discovers that she is on a mission for the Scarlet Pimpernel, he tricks her into believing that he wants to help her. Surely Gabrielle must know the mysterious man’s identity. Can he also trick her in to revealing it to him?
Gabrielle and Ramsey are both wonderful characters. They are believable, often funny, and highly likeable. They play off each other beautifully, and in spite of their obviously illegal actions, I found myself cheering for them all the way.
The well-written, fast-paced plot is filled with constant, unexpected twists and turns. Even the predictable plot elements happen as the result of unpredictable circumstances, making the entire novel a joy to read.
The background of Paris during the French Revolution is very well done. While understandably gory at times given the subject matter, it is believable and informative. So many small details are included to make the reader feel that they are there with the hero and heroine. Ms. Galen has obviously done her homework throughout.
Author Shana Galen has out-done herself with Traitor in Her Arms. It is a wonderful mystery that hooks you from the first chapter. I can only imagine what fun Ms. Galen has in store for us in the upcoming books in the series! Five stars, but I wish it could be six!
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Traitor in Her Arms, the first novel in the new Scarlet Chronicles series by best-selling author Shana Galen, is a delightful romp through London and Paris in search of the elusive Scarlet Pimpernel of historical infamy. Did he really exist? I’ll let you decide after reading this intriguing look into the French Revolution.
Widow Lady Gabrielle McCullough has to resort to thievery to pay the enormous debts left to her by her late husband. With one evil creditor in particular breathing down her neck, she agrees to steal a very famous necklace at the request of the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel who, it seems, is a fan of her “work.” Although he contacts her only through associates, she is convinced that, not only will she be paid fairly for this one job, but that it will help free an aristocrat mother and daughter imprisoned in Paris and waiting for a date with the guillotine. There is an obvious high level of danger involved, but how could she turn this job down?
Ramsey Barnes, AKA the Earl of Sedgwick, was a friend of Gabrielle’s late husband’s. After a stolen kiss right before her wedding leaves them both wanting more, she is obviously unnerved when she meets him at a ball several years later as they are both trying to steal the same bracelet. Ramsey is trying to hide his past from the public and is he is being blackmailed. The bracelet does not satisfy his blackmailer, however, and he is told to find out the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel to keep her quiet. When Ramsey finds himself on the same boat to France as Gabrielle and he also discovers that she is on a mission for the Scarlet Pimpernel, he tricks her into believing that he wants to help her. Surely Gabrielle must know the mysterious man’s identity. Can he also trick her in to revealing it to him?
Gabrielle and Ramsey are both wonderful characters. They are believable, often funny, and highly likeable. They play off each other beautifully, and in spite of their obviously illegal actions, I found myself cheering for them all the way.
The well-written, fast-paced plot is filled with constant, unexpected twists and turns. Even the predictable plot elements happen as the result of unpredictable circumstances, making the entire novel a joy to read.
The background of Paris during the French Revolution is very well done. While understandably gory at times given the subject matter, it is believable and informative. So many small details are included to make the reader feel that they are there with the hero and heroine. Ms. Galen has obviously done her homework throughout.
Author Shana Galen has out-done herself with Traitor in Her Arms. It is a wonderful mystery that hooks you from the first chapter. I can only imagine what fun Ms. Galen has in store for us in the upcoming books in the series! Five stars, but I wish it could be six!
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 22, 2017
Paris in the revolution!
The opening scenes are gritty and vivid, laced with a certain amount of gallows humour. Lady Gabrielle McCullough is in a tumbrel in Paris rumbling over cobblestones, having had her hair slashed off in readiness to meet Madame la Guillotine, and surrounded by crowds screaming for yet more beheadings. Yes! This new series has us smack in the middle of Paris at the time of the French Revolution. The scenes of gore and crowds howling for blood, the sansculotte, Robespierre, even Fouché, is here. Above all, the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel is in the background moving people around, directing the rescue of aristocrats and others, always within a whisker of being discovered.
The action then retreats to how Gabrielle has arrived at this state. It seems that upon being widowed Gabrielle found herself responsible for her husband's considerable gambling debts. Debts owed to a very nasty man. To keep herself afloat, Gabrielle has taken to stealing antiquities. In the middle of appropriating an Egyptian necklace aGabrielle is surprised by her husband's best friend, Ramsay, the Earl of Sedgwick. Ramsay is being blackmailed by a mysterious woman (who seemingly has informants everywhere), into doing various tasks for her in order to regain important papers she has about him. The scene of Gabrielle and Ramsay's meeting in the darkened room is both amusing and tense. The results, interesting.
When Gabrielle is approached by the Pimpernel in London to rescue a French countess from a Paris prison, Gabrielle agrees.
Imagine her surprise when she finds Ramsay making another appearance in her life, bound for Paris on the same ship as herself. Trust goes out the window, even as sensuality rushes in. And the dark dangers of Paris await. Little does Gabrielle know that Ramsay needs to discover the Pimpernel's identity, and that Gabrielle is to be that conduit.
What is so fascinating about this story by Galen is the tension generated between what Gabrielle and Ramsay are forced into doing, the dangers they find themselves in, their conscience or lack thereof, and the undeniable chemistry between them, all set against a particularly bloody and horrendous time in French history.
In the meantime we are treated to an interesting array of secondary characters, some of whom I'm sure we will meet in the future.
A NetGalley ARC
The opening scenes are gritty and vivid, laced with a certain amount of gallows humour. Lady Gabrielle McCullough is in a tumbrel in Paris rumbling over cobblestones, having had her hair slashed off in readiness to meet Madame la Guillotine, and surrounded by crowds screaming for yet more beheadings. Yes! This new series has us smack in the middle of Paris at the time of the French Revolution. The scenes of gore and crowds howling for blood, the sansculotte, Robespierre, even Fouché, is here. Above all, the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel is in the background moving people around, directing the rescue of aristocrats and others, always within a whisker of being discovered.
The action then retreats to how Gabrielle has arrived at this state. It seems that upon being widowed Gabrielle found herself responsible for her husband's considerable gambling debts. Debts owed to a very nasty man. To keep herself afloat, Gabrielle has taken to stealing antiquities. In the middle of appropriating an Egyptian necklace aGabrielle is surprised by her husband's best friend, Ramsay, the Earl of Sedgwick. Ramsay is being blackmailed by a mysterious woman (who seemingly has informants everywhere), into doing various tasks for her in order to regain important papers she has about him. The scene of Gabrielle and Ramsay's meeting in the darkened room is both amusing and tense. The results, interesting.
When Gabrielle is approached by the Pimpernel in London to rescue a French countess from a Paris prison, Gabrielle agrees.
Imagine her surprise when she finds Ramsay making another appearance in her life, bound for Paris on the same ship as herself. Trust goes out the window, even as sensuality rushes in. And the dark dangers of Paris await. Little does Gabrielle know that Ramsay needs to discover the Pimpernel's identity, and that Gabrielle is to be that conduit.
What is so fascinating about this story by Galen is the tension generated between what Gabrielle and Ramsay are forced into doing, the dangers they find themselves in, their conscience or lack thereof, and the undeniable chemistry between them, all set against a particularly bloody and horrendous time in French history.
In the meantime we are treated to an interesting array of secondary characters, some of whom I'm sure we will meet in the future.
A NetGalley ARC
August 22, 2017
TRAITOR IN HER ARMS is Shana Galen’s masterpiece!
Little did they know they would meet again when trying to steal a precious necklace. When her died while saddling her with his gambling debts, Lady Gabrielle McCullough had no choice but to become a thief or she would have to do whatever was needed to stay alive. When trying to get her hands on a valuable piece of jewelry, she comes face to face with the man she thought at one time would be her husband, but he never asked: Lord Ramsey Sedgwick, who has also turned to thieving because he has secrets that could cost him his life. When Ramsey takes off with the necklace, Gabrielle decides that she will get it back, however, the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel has other plans for her.
I have loved Shana Galen’s entertaining historical romantic suspense novels for several years. She always has a fresh take on things and fabulous heroines, but with TRAITOR IN HER ARMS she raised the bar so high, she must have touched the sky. Ms. Galen is an immensely talented author, but even so, nothing could have prepared me for the spectacular tale that is TRAITOR IN HER ARMS. It is truly an astounding book set against the French Revolution, and I can hardly imagine the months of research that went into this epic story, which recalls the great French classics albeit with a fabulous romance thrown in. Gabrielle and Ramsey are extraordinarily complex characters and it was never a sure thing that the love that they obviously felt towards each other would ever come to anything permanent; they have to stay alive, first of all. TRAITOR IN HER ARMS is not a cute little romance with a few bits of French history to justify some action scenes: this book has a very solid plot, with so many ramifications and secondary characters that I can see a very long series in the future. TRAITOR IN HER ARMS is Shana Galen’s masterpiece and I cannot wait for the next book already. The Scarlet Chronicles is a daring endeavour and Shana Galen succeeds beyond my wildest dreams with an extraordinary book that kicks off what will be a memorable and very exciting series.
See my review: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Little did they know they would meet again when trying to steal a precious necklace. When her died while saddling her with his gambling debts, Lady Gabrielle McCullough had no choice but to become a thief or she would have to do whatever was needed to stay alive. When trying to get her hands on a valuable piece of jewelry, she comes face to face with the man she thought at one time would be her husband, but he never asked: Lord Ramsey Sedgwick, who has also turned to thieving because he has secrets that could cost him his life. When Ramsey takes off with the necklace, Gabrielle decides that she will get it back, however, the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel has other plans for her.
I have loved Shana Galen’s entertaining historical romantic suspense novels for several years. She always has a fresh take on things and fabulous heroines, but with TRAITOR IN HER ARMS she raised the bar so high, she must have touched the sky. Ms. Galen is an immensely talented author, but even so, nothing could have prepared me for the spectacular tale that is TRAITOR IN HER ARMS. It is truly an astounding book set against the French Revolution, and I can hardly imagine the months of research that went into this epic story, which recalls the great French classics albeit with a fabulous romance thrown in. Gabrielle and Ramsey are extraordinarily complex characters and it was never a sure thing that the love that they obviously felt towards each other would ever come to anything permanent; they have to stay alive, first of all. TRAITOR IN HER ARMS is not a cute little romance with a few bits of French history to justify some action scenes: this book has a very solid plot, with so many ramifications and secondary characters that I can see a very long series in the future. TRAITOR IN HER ARMS is Shana Galen’s masterpiece and I cannot wait for the next book already. The Scarlet Chronicles is a daring endeavour and Shana Galen succeeds beyond my wildest dreams with an extraordinary book that kicks off what will be a memorable and very exciting series.
See my review: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
August 2, 2017
*I received a copy from the author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I love a book that shows a different side of things and this is one of them. There are secrets and scandals surrounding both of them, but their hearts are in the right place with all of it. I loved that they have known each other for a long time, but thought they weren't supposed to be together for different reasons. I was so sucked in by the mystery of the Scarlet Pimpernel and how he brought them together while helping others. You will get a shock with everything going on in France and be on edge at times not knowing what will happen next. The ending was totally unexpected and amazing.
Gabrielle is a fierce woman that knows what she's doing when it comes to stealing. I loved that she didn't hesitate to go to France and help save people. She fought her feelings about Ramsey at every turn, but couldn't keep them all hidden.
Ramsey has a shocking, but good reason for why he didn't marry her years ago. I loved what he had done that caused him to be blackmailed because it was not anything I could think of. He is one that you will love right away.
I love a book that shows a different side of things and this is one of them. There are secrets and scandals surrounding both of them, but their hearts are in the right place with all of it. I loved that they have known each other for a long time, but thought they weren't supposed to be together for different reasons. I was so sucked in by the mystery of the Scarlet Pimpernel and how he brought them together while helping others. You will get a shock with everything going on in France and be on edge at times not knowing what will happen next. The ending was totally unexpected and amazing.
Gabrielle is a fierce woman that knows what she's doing when it comes to stealing. I loved that she didn't hesitate to go to France and help save people. She fought her feelings about Ramsey at every turn, but couldn't keep them all hidden.
Ramsey has a shocking, but good reason for why he didn't marry her years ago. I loved what he had done that caused him to be blackmailed because it was not anything I could think of. He is one that you will love right away.
August 22, 2017
If the above synopses doesn’t hook you into this story, here’s what I thought of it.
This is one of those stories that will stay with you well after you’ve read it and the reason for it are the complex characters that will touch your heart.
Shana Galen is one of those authors that can plot a story so well that you’ll be on the edge of your seat as you read. The pace, action and humor helps the dark moments of the story and makes it more real.
As I said it before, this is not my first time reading this author and the reason for coming back to her is very simple. I find her writing unique and unconventional, creative and refreshing, and never, ever boring.
If you’ve never read her before, this is a perfect story to start.
Melanie for b2b
Gift copy provided by the author
This is one of those stories that will stay with you well after you’ve read it and the reason for it are the complex characters that will touch your heart.
Shana Galen is one of those authors that can plot a story so well that you’ll be on the edge of your seat as you read. The pace, action and humor helps the dark moments of the story and makes it more real.
As I said it before, this is not my first time reading this author and the reason for coming back to her is very simple. I find her writing unique and unconventional, creative and refreshing, and never, ever boring.
If you’ve never read her before, this is a perfect story to start.
Melanie for b2b
Gift copy provided by the author
April 27, 2017
This story was so captivating set in the back drop of the French Revolution. Gabrielle must try and stave off creditors by deciding to elude them by going to France and help save people from the blade. She is summoned to this task by none other than the Scarlet Pimpernel. Lord Sedgewick is drawn into this journey with secrets of his own that may cost him more than he bargained. The plot was fast paced with intrigue and suspense. These two people are inexplicably drawn to each other, but can't seem to trust each other. Characters, plot, setting highly detailed and complex that brought this story life. I found myself holding my breath with the suspense. I can't wait for the next adventure. I voluntarily reviewed this book for NetGalley.
August 17, 2017
This story starts so very darkly I wasn't sure where it would take me, but oh what a ride! The author keeps you on tenterhooks throughout the story with few respites. You get the impression that nothing more can happen and then it does. This book gives a realistic look at the Reign of Terror with all the horror, desperation, despair, hunger, blood, gore, filth and odors there must have been. It also gives the reader an intriguing look into the lives of those few heroes and heroines that put their lives on the line. This is a story that will remain with you long after you finish and one that begs to be read again, slowly to savor the craftsmanship of Ms Galen.
April 23, 2017
Shana Galen never disappoints so I am always happy to read a new book from her. The story of Lady Gabrielle McCullough and the Earl of Sedgwick interwoven with the drama of the French Revolution and the Scarlet Pimpernel took me on a wild ride through that period in history. I learned so much about what was happening during that time. It was shocking but gripping to read what people lived through and I was left in suspense as to how the story would unfold. I look forward to more books in The Scarlet Chronicles!
April 22, 2017
First I want to say shana galen books are amazing and I will always preorder here books. I love Gabrielle, she was so brave to do what she did in the book. Sorry no spoilers. I can't wait for the sequel.
September 11, 2017
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4 Stars.
I'm a sucker for Historical Romance, but what I enjoy the most is when an author writes outside of what is the norm for the genre. When a heroine has an unconventional career/backstory, versus being on the marriage mart, awaiting the perfect match, I always end up reading feverishly.
As the widow of a gambler husband, Gabrielle struggles to survive as creditors want her to pay the debt with her flesh. She ends up becoming a thief to survive. I enjoyed reading a strong heroine with life-experience, versus a simpering, vapid damsel-in-distress awaiting her prince charming to save her.
Gabrielle is commissioned by the Scarlet Pimpernel to go on a rescue mission in Paris, which leads the reader to our hero.
Lord Sedgewick- Ramsey is being blackmailed, and the blackmailer wishes to know the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. In his quest to meet his blackmailer's demands, this leads him to Gabrielle.
With plenty of tension and chemistry, Traitor in Her Arms is a twisty, turny, intriguing tale, where the romance is not front and center. In truth, for me, the fact that the romance takes a backseat to the conflict, rather than using it to drive the story forward, made it more realistic.
Galen writes strong, intelligent characters, with a dynamic story that doesn't rely on over-the-top romance to overshadow it. Page-turner. That's not to say there isn't oodles of romance, just not with flowery overtures that are generally a standard for the genre. Ramsey and Gabrielle allow their actions to speak loudest, versus saying endearing things but never following through. This made for a more realistic coupling, where I could buy into their connection, versus feeling as if the author was forcing it.
Highly recommended to Historical Romance and fans of the author.
4 Stars.
I'm a sucker for Historical Romance, but what I enjoy the most is when an author writes outside of what is the norm for the genre. When a heroine has an unconventional career/backstory, versus being on the marriage mart, awaiting the perfect match, I always end up reading feverishly.
As the widow of a gambler husband, Gabrielle struggles to survive as creditors want her to pay the debt with her flesh. She ends up becoming a thief to survive. I enjoyed reading a strong heroine with life-experience, versus a simpering, vapid damsel-in-distress awaiting her prince charming to save her.
Gabrielle is commissioned by the Scarlet Pimpernel to go on a rescue mission in Paris, which leads the reader to our hero.
Lord Sedgewick- Ramsey is being blackmailed, and the blackmailer wishes to know the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. In his quest to meet his blackmailer's demands, this leads him to Gabrielle.
With plenty of tension and chemistry, Traitor in Her Arms is a twisty, turny, intriguing tale, where the romance is not front and center. In truth, for me, the fact that the romance takes a backseat to the conflict, rather than using it to drive the story forward, made it more realistic.
Galen writes strong, intelligent characters, with a dynamic story that doesn't rely on over-the-top romance to overshadow it. Page-turner. That's not to say there isn't oodles of romance, just not with flowery overtures that are generally a standard for the genre. Ramsey and Gabrielle allow their actions to speak loudest, versus saying endearing things but never following through. This made for a more realistic coupling, where I could buy into their connection, versus feeling as if the author was forcing it.
Highly recommended to Historical Romance and fans of the author.
July 9, 2017
This is a well written, passionate, sometimes difficult to read story set during the Paris Reign of Terror of the French Revolution. It's an interesting take on the Scarlet Pimpernel, the "Robin Hood" of rescuing nobility out of Paris from under the judgment of the guillotine.
Viscountess Gabrielle McCullough, widow of Ramsey's best friend George, and Lord Ramsey Barnes, Earl of Sedgwick, meet once again in the most unexpected place, the bedroom of a duchess during a ball. Both thieves after the same necklace, even if they hold titles. Gabrielle is a widow in a great deal of debt thanks to her late husband's gambling and Ramsey is being blackmailed! Oh the things one will do when desperate! And so we begin a twisted tale of rescue, redemption and reward with the violence of Paris in the mix. I now know why I've avoided reading this period in history. The Reign of Terror was truly horrible and difficult to read for me. BUT I adored the telling of Gabrielle's bravery, Ramsey's awakening to his true character even if it surprises him and the intricate maze of rescues. This clues you into Ramsey: "He really did want to leave her alone. Forever. Every time they crossed paths he became more and more entangled. He didn't know why. It wasn't as though she was charming or pleasant. But she was beautiful and seductive as hell. Damn it!" Chapter 7
Shana tells a very believable tale of the legend of the Scarlet Pimpernel and who two desperate individuals help others even more disparate than themselves. Thank you for the ARC of this fabulous story!
Viscountess Gabrielle McCullough, widow of Ramsey's best friend George, and Lord Ramsey Barnes, Earl of Sedgwick, meet once again in the most unexpected place, the bedroom of a duchess during a ball. Both thieves after the same necklace, even if they hold titles. Gabrielle is a widow in a great deal of debt thanks to her late husband's gambling and Ramsey is being blackmailed! Oh the things one will do when desperate! And so we begin a twisted tale of rescue, redemption and reward with the violence of Paris in the mix. I now know why I've avoided reading this period in history. The Reign of Terror was truly horrible and difficult to read for me. BUT I adored the telling of Gabrielle's bravery, Ramsey's awakening to his true character even if it surprises him and the intricate maze of rescues. This clues you into Ramsey: "He really did want to leave her alone. Forever. Every time they crossed paths he became more and more entangled. He didn't know why. It wasn't as though she was charming or pleasant. But she was beautiful and seductive as hell. Damn it!" Chapter 7
Shana tells a very believable tale of the legend of the Scarlet Pimpernel and who two desperate individuals help others even more disparate than themselves. Thank you for the ARC of this fabulous story!
August 23, 2017
Even though I’d read only one of Galen’s books, Sapphires are an Earl’s Best Friend, I knew I was in for a treat.
I know a book has been successful in teaching me something when I highlight certain terms and later look them up. Author Shana Galen has done her homework about the Reign of Terror. She paints an accurate and bleak picture of the life of its nobility, or perhaps better said, the destruction of it.
The guillotine was a despicable killing machine. In Paris alone, it is estimated between 2,600 to 3,000 people were beheaded by Madame Guillotine. An estimate of 17,000 people throughout France were beheaded, or as the people would say, so-and-so ‘sneezed into the basket’ or ‘poking through the window’. These terms are used in the story and they are historically accurate.
Scarlet Pimpernell is very much part of this story. I’m not sure he actually existed, but there is a novel written by Baroness Orczy, published in 1905 who speaks of an Englishman who rescues aristocrats from Madame Guillotine. Perhaps, he is legend. But in this story, he’s real.
I was transported to the fear and terror of that time. I could smell the people and filth of the streets, catacombs and sewers. I could feel the hatred of the common people for the gentry who represented the reason they had almost nothing.
With this backdrop, Lady Gabrielle McCullough, an English woman is also living in a situation she needs to escape. Her dead husband left her in debt and the creditors are demanding their due. She takes up thieving and is rather good at it. When she thinks she’s obtained a highly valued piece of jewelry, it is stolen from her by the only man who has had her heart flutter, Earl of Sedgwick.
The situation is quite comical even though it’s dangerous. Sedgwick is also a rather accomplished thief. It appears he has troubles of his own. He’s being blackmailed and needs the item to keep his secret, secret.
Sedgwick has always liked Gabrielle. In his own way, Sedgwick is honorable. I really enjoy this character. He’s honorable, yet is driven to do dishonorable things. In that direction, he accompanies Gabrielle to France. She’s there to save two aristocrats, a duke’s wife and daughter, a request by the duke and Scarlet Pimpernel himself. She must acquire a precious and most difficult-to-procure jewel for a warden in the prison, who then has promised to release the woman and child. But has she jumped from the frying pan in England into the fire in France?
In such a climate the streets were not safe. Gabrielle is relieved to have Sedgwick along. He has told her he isn’t trust worthy. So at what point does she find he may be trusted? This trip to France has not only changed the hero and heroine, it has given me a true insight into this catastrophic time in history.
I loved how the story began—with a scene we eventually get to with the telling of the tale. Galen repeated the scene. With the acquired backstory, the scene is now fully emotional and dreadful for me, making me amazingly sympathic. Excellent writing.
I liked the extremes of the story. Side-by-side, I experienced the evil of man, done out of revenge, the good of man to help people from certain death, the greed of man to better himself, and the selflessness of others.
Needless, to say, I love the way the events and environment were portrayed through Gabrielle and Ramsey’s journey. They were flawed, Ramsey more so than Gabrielle, yet noble in their actions. Can Gabrielle forgive Ramsey’s duplicity?
Galen keeps the story running at a fast clip. I was totally engaged with it all. The overall arc of the story is spot-on. I could not be more pleased with this read.
I know a book has been successful in teaching me something when I highlight certain terms and later look them up. Author Shana Galen has done her homework about the Reign of Terror. She paints an accurate and bleak picture of the life of its nobility, or perhaps better said, the destruction of it.
The guillotine was a despicable killing machine. In Paris alone, it is estimated between 2,600 to 3,000 people were beheaded by Madame Guillotine. An estimate of 17,000 people throughout France were beheaded, or as the people would say, so-and-so ‘sneezed into the basket’ or ‘poking through the window’. These terms are used in the story and they are historically accurate.
Scarlet Pimpernell is very much part of this story. I’m not sure he actually existed, but there is a novel written by Baroness Orczy, published in 1905 who speaks of an Englishman who rescues aristocrats from Madame Guillotine. Perhaps, he is legend. But in this story, he’s real.
I was transported to the fear and terror of that time. I could smell the people and filth of the streets, catacombs and sewers. I could feel the hatred of the common people for the gentry who represented the reason they had almost nothing.
With this backdrop, Lady Gabrielle McCullough, an English woman is also living in a situation she needs to escape. Her dead husband left her in debt and the creditors are demanding their due. She takes up thieving and is rather good at it. When she thinks she’s obtained a highly valued piece of jewelry, it is stolen from her by the only man who has had her heart flutter, Earl of Sedgwick.
The situation is quite comical even though it’s dangerous. Sedgwick is also a rather accomplished thief. It appears he has troubles of his own. He’s being blackmailed and needs the item to keep his secret, secret.
Sedgwick has always liked Gabrielle. In his own way, Sedgwick is honorable. I really enjoy this character. He’s honorable, yet is driven to do dishonorable things. In that direction, he accompanies Gabrielle to France. She’s there to save two aristocrats, a duke’s wife and daughter, a request by the duke and Scarlet Pimpernel himself. She must acquire a precious and most difficult-to-procure jewel for a warden in the prison, who then has promised to release the woman and child. But has she jumped from the frying pan in England into the fire in France?
In such a climate the streets were not safe. Gabrielle is relieved to have Sedgwick along. He has told her he isn’t trust worthy. So at what point does she find he may be trusted? This trip to France has not only changed the hero and heroine, it has given me a true insight into this catastrophic time in history.
I loved how the story began—with a scene we eventually get to with the telling of the tale. Galen repeated the scene. With the acquired backstory, the scene is now fully emotional and dreadful for me, making me amazingly sympathic. Excellent writing.
I liked the extremes of the story. Side-by-side, I experienced the evil of man, done out of revenge, the good of man to help people from certain death, the greed of man to better himself, and the selflessness of others.
Needless, to say, I love the way the events and environment were portrayed through Gabrielle and Ramsey’s journey. They were flawed, Ramsey more so than Gabrielle, yet noble in their actions. Can Gabrielle forgive Ramsey’s duplicity?
Galen keeps the story running at a fast clip. I was totally engaged with it all. The overall arc of the story is spot-on. I could not be more pleased with this read.
March 13, 2017
Traitor in Her Arms by Shana Galen is a jewel thief book. I didn't realize that the entire book would be surrounded by this plot. I much prefer a romance book to place the romance first and other plot objectives secondary and therefore this book was just not for me, but luckily many readers prefer the opposite and if you are one of those, then you'll absolutely love this story. I wanted to like it more than I did. Thanks to Netgalley and Loveswept for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
August 22, 2017
Previously having read and enjoyed a Regency historical by Galen, I was looking forward to this one, especially when I noticed that it was set during the French Revolution. I was not disappointed, but this was not the light-hearted romp that I am accustomed to in historical romance.
The Story-
After her husband's death, Gabrielle is left with all of his gambling debt and no way to pay it back. She has taken to stealing expensive artifacts from the rich in order to keep her head above water, but when she is offered the chance to repay everything and help the Scarlet Pimpernel free innocents in Paris, she must act. Ramsey has always been intrigued by Gabrielle, but no more so than now, catching her in the act of theft. A secret and blackmail keep him from realizing his full potential, and now he will follow Gabrielle into danger to hopefully free himself.
My Thoughts-
It was so refreshing to read of a different time period than Regency or Victorian England, but man, Revolutionary Paris is pretty depressing. Exciting, yes. But still depressing. The danger in this story was as palpable as a world-ending paranormal, which I adjusted to, but was perhaps not expecting from the normally light historical genre. The development of the characters was thorough and complete; their actions are entirely driven by their motivations. The heat between the two was constantly simmering beneath the surface. Mostly though, the depictions of Paris during the Revolution perfectly set the scene. I could almost smell the blood and feel the tension, waiting for the zing of the guillotine. Honestly, this felt more like a historical novel with romantic elements than a true romance because of the weight of the plot. I think that is what kept it from a 5 star rating for me; I wasn't prepared, and the suspense stressed me a bit.
The Bottom Line-
If, after reading this review, you are thinking that this sounds like a book you will really enjoy, you will likely LOVE this one. If you are in the mood for a light historical, this probably won't be your jam today. Well-written and a wonderfully different setting! 4 1/2 stars
The Story-
After her husband's death, Gabrielle is left with all of his gambling debt and no way to pay it back. She has taken to stealing expensive artifacts from the rich in order to keep her head above water, but when she is offered the chance to repay everything and help the Scarlet Pimpernel free innocents in Paris, she must act. Ramsey has always been intrigued by Gabrielle, but no more so than now, catching her in the act of theft. A secret and blackmail keep him from realizing his full potential, and now he will follow Gabrielle into danger to hopefully free himself.
My Thoughts-
It was so refreshing to read of a different time period than Regency or Victorian England, but man, Revolutionary Paris is pretty depressing. Exciting, yes. But still depressing. The danger in this story was as palpable as a world-ending paranormal, which I adjusted to, but was perhaps not expecting from the normally light historical genre. The development of the characters was thorough and complete; their actions are entirely driven by their motivations. The heat between the two was constantly simmering beneath the surface. Mostly though, the depictions of Paris during the Revolution perfectly set the scene. I could almost smell the blood and feel the tension, waiting for the zing of the guillotine. Honestly, this felt more like a historical novel with romantic elements than a true romance because of the weight of the plot. I think that is what kept it from a 5 star rating for me; I wasn't prepared, and the suspense stressed me a bit.
The Bottom Line-
If, after reading this review, you are thinking that this sounds like a book you will really enjoy, you will likely LOVE this one. If you are in the mood for a light historical, this probably won't be your jam today. Well-written and a wonderfully different setting! 4 1/2 stars
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