The Secret of the India Orchid
Nancy Campbell Allen
320 pages
Hard Copy Edition
From the Publisher:
Anthony Blake, the Earl of Wilshire, is in love with his best friend’s sister, Sophia Elliot. But his plans to court her are put on hold when he is forced to resume his role as an undercover spy for the Crown. A secret document listing the names of the entire network of British spies—including his own—has been stolen. To protect Sophia, Anthony cuts off all ties to her and exchanges his life as an honorable earl for the facade of a flirtatious playboy.
Heartbroken and confused, Sophia travels to India, hoping to find healing in one of the most exotic regions of the British Empire. But the exotic land isn’t as restful as she had hoped. Instead, she finds herself embroiled in a mystery of a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and a plot that could involve the prince of India. And when Anthony appears at the British Residency, asking questions and keeping his distance from her, she is stunned.
She still loves him, and, in her heart, she knows he loves her too. But how can she rebuild her relationship with him if he won’t confide in her? Does she dare offer her heart to him a second time, or will their love be lost under the India sun?
Review:
I’ve been a big fan of the Proper Romance series since it first came out in 2012. I wasn’t even aware that this book was the story of the sister from Allen’s previous Proper Romance book, My Fair Gentleman, but I LOVE it when an author continues and ties together characters like this!
This book contained a little bit of everything – mystery, romance, action, suspense. I did find it a little bit predictable, but there are times I really don’t mind a predicable book. Sometimes I just need a book that I know will be clean, easy and enjoyable without the extra drama.
I know this has nothing to do with the story but the cover art is beautiful too! Seriously – it’s one pretty book. I also think Allen did a wonderful job with descriptions in this book – I could really close my eyes and see India and the settings. One other little sidenote that I loved about this book? I LOVED that Sophia stood up for women’s rights and education. It was subtle, but it was there, and I loved it!
If you haven’t ever read any of the Proper Romance books I highly recommend them. I have a hard time picking my favorite, but Edenbrooke was the first book they released and just might be my all time favorite too. You can follow them on facebook for more information about their authors, books and new releases. I’m super excited because they have three new books that will be released in the next few months:
All That Makes Life Bright, by Josi Kilpack
Lies Jane Austen Told Me, Julie Wright
Have you read any of the Proper Romance books? Do you love historical fiction? I would love to hear which ones you have read and what have been your favorites!
Happy Reading!
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