Rogues Redeemed #1
“I feel old and very boringly British.”
Will Masterson
Most Regency-era novels take place in England, so it is a refreshing change of pace for this book to be set on the continent. The tiny country of San Gabriel gives an up-close view of the devastation of the Peninsular Wars. A French general, Baudin, retreating through the country left a large swath of destruction in his wake and took the king and crown prince as prisoners. This devastation makes a magnificent backdrop for Will Masterson and Athena Markham’s growing relationship.
Will and Athena’s British reserve is one of the first points that draw them together in a country populated by vibrant and boisterous Gabrileños. Despite the damage done to their homes, fields, and land, the Gabrileños are still full of life and love to celebrate every step toward returning their lives to normal. Part of those high spirits may have to do with the vast amounts of wine consumed throughout the book. Every time you turn a page, it feels like, some type of wine is being consumed or talked about. Given that wine is their primary export, it makes sense, but it is still a lot of wine.
Athena had been living in San Gabriel for years as a companion and advisor to Princess Maria Sofia. San Gabriel is her refuge from the prejudices in Britain where she is looked down upon for being illegitimate and the daughter of a very well-known courtesan. She is very reticent to accept Will’s courtship in large part because she does not wish to return to British society. Sofia, who is now the heir to the throne, relies on her as an advisor. Her position has earned her the love of the Gabrileños, which is another reason for her to stay.
Will is looking forward to returning to peaceful life after serving in the army. His plans to return home are derailed when he is asked to lead the healthy Gabrileños home. His going is also an excellent way to determine what aid San Gabriel needs to rebuild, as Will has experience as an engineer. Meeting Athena changes his mind about making a hasty departure back to Britain. He is a strong character who is willing to work hard and not afraid to get dirty to rebuild San Gabriel. Will is a thoughtful man who is amenable to wooing Athena slowly. He even removes himself from her presence when he feels that he is pushing too hard.
The efforts to rebuild and replant, coupled with preparing to defend against potential threats keeps tensions high. The plot flows well mixing tense moments with tender. The setting and plot make this book a fresh air in the Regency Romance genre.
This novel is the first in the Rogues Redeemed series. I look forward to reading the rest of the series if they are at all like this one.
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