I like my historical romance to come with a solid bit of history, not just with romance, and Joanna Bourne delivers. The tense atmosphere in France/Paris in July 1794 is well-described, and I appreciate the way she sets the story in an accurate historical context without overloading it. Some scenes are not quite credible, like ---- spoiler ---- Hawker climbing into the Duplay's house to nick Robespierre's infamous speech that led to his downfall. But hey, that's the difference between 'romance' and 'fiction', I suppose. The hero, Doyle, is clever, snarky and capable, and I will read other Spaymaster novels to find out more about him. Marguerite is perhaps not quite as interesting a character, but there is nothing of the TSTL damsel about her. Some minor plotlines peter out a bit, like the poisoning, but overall definitely recommended! *hangs head in shame*Despite the rave reviews from so many readers here that I trust, I just could not get into the book. The metaphors drove me batty, as did all the spy stuff with everyone having a speshul code name. I lost interest about halfway through and other books kept grabbing my attention until the library said it was time to go home to Overdrive land and took it away. Sorry guyz.
What do You think about The Forbidden Rose (2010)?
I really enjoyed the almost poetic writing. The story is well told; great setting and characters.
—devnicw
This was excellent in so many ways. I'm probably going to devour every book by this author now.
—ono
One of my favorite historicals in print. Narration was perfect by Potter.
—Rier11
LOVE this entire series. You MUST buy it!
—maynor2005
I was actually sorry when this one ended.
—bradt08
