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THE MUSES' SALON #4
RECKLESS IN RED
RACHAEL MILES
3.86
108 ratings32 reviews
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Brimming with vibrant, feisty characters, witty banter, swoon-worthy romance and
a touch of mysterious intrigue, the fourth installment in Rachael Miles's Muses'
Salon Series features an artistic heroine caught up in a Regency-era medical
school's body snatching business.
Lena Frost is a force to be reckoned with. A woman who has made her way in
society without family or fortune, she's about to realize her first big success
as an artist... Until her business partner makes off with her money, leaving her
with little more than her hopes—and a dead body in her studio. Now Lena is at
the mercy of a strikingly handsome stranger demanding answers she dare not
reveal...
Is it her seductive eyes, or his suspicion that she's up to no good that have
Clive Somerville shadowing Lena's every move? Either way, his secret
investigation for the Home Office has him determined to uncover Lena's hidden
agenda. But the closer he gets to her, the more he longs to be her protector. Is
she a victim of circumstance? Or a dark force in a conspiracy that could destroy
everything Clive holds dear? Discovering the truth could have dire consequences,
not only for Lena, but for his heart...
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GenresHistorical RomanceRomanceHistorical FictionMystery
375 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 28, 2019
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
RACHAEL MILES
8 books301 followers
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Rachael Miles has always loved a good romance, especially one with a bit of
suspense and preferably a ghost. She was also a professor of book history and
nineteenth-century literature whose students frequently found themselves reading
the novels of Ann Radcliffe and other gothic tales. A native Texan, Rachael
lives in upstate NY with her indulgent husband, three rescued dogs and an
ancient cat.
Rachael loves to hear from her readers: find her at her website:
rachaelmiles.com, on Facebook (rachaelmilesauthor) or twitter (rachael_miles1)
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COMMUNITY REVIEWS
3.86
108 ratings32 reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Elodie’s Reading Corner
2,519 reviews145 followers
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October 9, 2019
Reckless in Red
The Muses' Salon Series Series #4
Rachael Miles
https://www.facebook.com/rachaelmiles...
Release date 10/29/2019
Publisher Kensington / Zebra
Blurb :
Lena Frost is a force to be reckoned with. A woman who has made her way in
society without family or fortune, she’s about to realize her first big success
as an artist. . . . Until her business partner makes off with her money, leaving
her with little more than her hopes—and a dead body in her studio. Now Lena is
at the mercy of a strikingly handsome stranger demanding answers she dare not
reveal . . .
Is it her seductive eyes, or his suspicion that she’s up to no good that have
Clive Somerville shadowing Lena’s every move? Either way, his secret
investigation for the Home Office has him determined to uncover Lena’s hidden
agenda. But the closer he gets to her, the more he longs to be her protector.
Is she a victim of circumstance? Or a dark force in a conspiracy that could
destroy everything Clive holds dear? Discovering the truth could have dire
consequences, not only for Lena, but for his heart . . .
My review
Will he be able to win her trust when she is determined to save herself alone...
I confess even if intriguing, this story has a slow beginning then a secondary
line in the plot confused me.
The author takes its time introducing her protagonists, setting the plot and
giving some pointers about their background.
During a time, I followed with them the leads and clues, eager to learn with
them who was after Lena.
Then they lost me, too many protagonists from previous books, and probably the
too many mysteries behind Lena’s past and her silence about it.
There were so many secrets, so many different Lena and only few hints were
given, some flashbacks to keep me in suspense but the more importants were kept
silent, which unbalanced the story.
Clive is no complicated guy, he is kind and caring, so much he was branded and
nicknamed for his good deeds. But it does not stop him to keep going and he
still help as much as he can.
So when entranced by Lena, he is drawn to her and will do anything to protect
and save her, if only she lets him in.
He is an easy soul, he knows his place in society but it did not deter him to
make his own on his own schedule, he became a forensic surgeon to give answers
and serve his country.
While Lena is a puzzle, who is she truly.
A glimpse of a part of her past is quickly revealed, as it explains her present
situation, then some recalls slide to older memories, adding a piece to house of
cards her life is. So yes, I was sad for what she went through as a young girl,
the abuses she suffered would have destroyed many persons.
She is a chameleon, the most important parts of herself, she kept secret until
the very far end.
Because of her different experiences, she appears to trust no one, she seems
weary of men and women but at the same time, her path crossed with great peoples
who helped her, she learned under the tutelage of a talented woman, she has an
associate and she will require the Muses’ help.
Why I was conflicted with her, she refuses to confide in Clive when every day he
proves her he is a trustworthy fellow, ready to jump in front of her to protect
her, never dismissing her for being a woman, but she at the end goes to others.
The worst is the last twist, I saw it coming for what it was but the pain it
caused to Clive was nearly unbearable.
3.5 stars rounded to 4.
I was granted an advance copy through Netgalley by the publisher Kensington.
Here is my true and honest opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
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Janet
4,670 reviews53 followers
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October 28, 2019
Lena Frost is a force to be reckoned with. A woman who has made her way in
society without family or fortune, she’s about to realize her first big success
as an artist then her business partner makes off with her money, leaving her
with little more than her hopes. Clive Somerville is a doctor working on a
secret investigation for the Home Office &has him determined to uncover Lena’s
hidden agenda. But the closer he gets to her, the more he longs to be her
protector.
An interesting read that was more of a mystery, murder story I felt the romance
took second billing. A well written book, which I found a little difficult to
get in to but once I’d read a few pages, I was hooked & eagerly read to find the
outcome. I liked both Clive & Lena both were strong characters . I liked how
Lena’s story was gradually revealed & the more that was revealed the more her
actions become more believable. There are still issues to be resolved so I look
forward to the next book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
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🌈⭐️RoseOfRainbows⭐️🌈💕
262 reviews35 followers
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September 30, 2019
As far as historical fiction goes, I think this was a marvelous take on a
classic romance scenario. The characters were witty, and the plot line was
exquisite. 5/5 stars for a profound tale of the ages.
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Niki (mustreadalltheromance)
1,174 reviews99 followers
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November 20, 2019
Lena Frost has survived without family or funds and is well on her way to
establishing herself as an artist in England after 10 years in France. Her
latest exhibition is shaping up to be a great success until her partner absconds
with all her money and she finds a dead body in her rooms. Now she has a
handsome investigator breathing down her neck and must decide how much she dares
entrust him with, if anything at all.
Lord Clive Somerville wears many hats: he moves in high society as a duke's
younger son, is a respected surgeon and teacher, and he moonlights as a secret
investigator for the Home Office. It is in this latter capacity that Lena
appears on his radar and he's determined to learn what she's hiding. But the
more time he spends with her, the more protective he becomes of her and the more
he begins to think she is just another victim of a larger crime ring. It soon
becomes apparent that there is more going on than was first evident and it may
all be part of a larger conspiracy that could have dire consequences for them
both.
You chance spoilers from here on; though I've tried not to add them, it does
tend to happen when I rant.
I have some mixed feelings about this one. There was a large cast of characters
from previous books that were a bit of a struggle to keep straight, but what
really confused me was the simple fact that some things just didn't make good
sense. Some scenes are told from the point of view of the villains, which was
interesting, but this just made it difficult to keep track of all the different
villainous elements at play here. I kept thinking we were going to get this
great mind-blowing twist with the two masterminds and it never came so that was
a bit disappointing, though perhaps this is being saved for later books in the
series.
I enjoyed the mystery and suspense aspect of the story, but I definitely felt
like the romance element took a back seat, especially because much of the time
Lena is just being one of the prickly "independent" women that seem to be so
popular now and she just came off as hateful to me; even she acknowledged the
unfairness of her behavior at times but she didn't really ever change it. Much
of the time Lena is just being awful to Clive while he's just trying to help and
keep her safe which also doing his job as an investigator. I also felt that both
Clive and Lena kept making stupid decisions that didn't mesh with the
intelligence their characters previously demonstrated and came off as a sloppy
way to keep them engaged with the villains and just had me rolling my eyes and
literally yelling out loud at them. It also didn't make sense that Lena was the
daughter of a wealthy baron but her inheritance was just a house and land; this
didn't jive with other mentions of it in the story and leads me to think that
perhaps the attempted complexity here got just a bit out of hand with too many
twists to keep track of.
Also, I'm all for twists in a plot line when they're well done, but that last
one seemed wholly unfair to Clive and unnecessary for the a story that already
felt like it was dragging. Despite the mystery and suspense, the pacing was
rather slow, especially when it came to the romance, and their intimate scenes
together were a letdown after how long their chemistry and tension was built.
This book also hit some pet peeves of mine: the characters are kept apart for a
time due to their lack of communication, a plot device I detest; Lena is very
hypocritical at times, becoming angry with Clive for being less than forthcoming
with her (while he's in the midst of a murder investigation mind you) and yet
she is withholding major parts of herself and her story from him, despite the
fact that he has been much more open with her.
Overall, this story was interesting and kept enough loose ends for me to want to
continue the series. The writing itself was good and I'll try something else
from this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and
opinions are my own.
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arc damaged-heroine frustrating-heroine
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Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels)
1,060 reviews1,313 followers
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January 16, 2020
Rachael Miles is a new author to me! Unfortunately I wasn't in love with this
book.
Lena has been abandoned by her partner close to the opening of her artistic
panorama. Workers have begun to go missing, and all that was left for her was a
note telling her to "RUN".
Clive is a surgeon, promising to solve the murders of 6 men to date.
They meet when Lena meets a friend of a friend and begins painting lessons with
her daughter.
This book, I think a lot of people would like. If you enjoy a mystery aspect
especially, this plot just keeps on going with that.
For me, I just found the romance so boring. The book itself isn't boring, but I
read romance for the romance. 20% in they had barely had a conversation. One
that lasted only a few moments. Just a snoozefest to me.
It does start to pick up a bit after that. But I read past 50% and just gave up.
I feel like this story is much more murder/mystery with a hint of romance versus
romance with a hint of mystery to drive the plot along. So not for me, sadly.
I was able to receive an ARC copy complimentary from netgalley. Opinions
expressed in this review are completely my own.
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historical-romance net-galley
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Cathy Geha
4,083 reviews107 followers
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November 6, 2019
Reckless in Red by Rachael Miles
Muses Salon #4
Complex, complicated and completely captivating...this book had my attention
from the first to the last page!
What I liked:
* The time period
* The slow unfolding of the story
* The strength of the main male and female characters
* Learning about Panoramas and how they were created as well as what a big deal
they must have been long ago
* Clive’s family...all of them
* The intrigue provided by the spy-factor
* Resurrectionist information shared in the story
* The mystery and quest Lena and Clive were involved in
* The Muses and the strength of the women together
* The path Clive chose to follow as a younger son
* The slow building of trust between Clive and Lena
* The way Lena thought in terms of color, composition and character – it
reminded me of taking up watercolor and how I began to see the world in a
completely different way
* and more
What I did not like:
* Charters (& Flute)….think he must eventually, in this series, get his
comeuppance (at least I hope so!)
* Lena’s father and the woman who ran the school she attended for awhile
* The horrible childhood that Lena endured
* The lack of value some put on a human life
* Having to say goodbye to the characters at the end of the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington-Zebra for the ARC – This is my honest
review.
5 Stars
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Lori D
4,042 reviews116 followers
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November 3, 2019
This is the first story I have read by this author and I have to say it pulled
me in and did not let go until the end! Her detailed descriptions had me feeling
I was there with the characters and could also imagine walking in their steps
and feeling their thoughts. I was wrapped in the mystery immediately when the
heroine Lena found her business partner Horatio gone and the money they had
collected to open the exhibition with him. But there was a note with one word on
it "RUN." It was at that time when she was alone that a man, looking like a
classical god come to life! She was able to escape acting like she was looking
for someone too.
The journey is long, filled with a lot of twist and turns, mystery, suspense,
secrets and a slow romance that makes you want to hurry and turn the pages to
see what will happen.
I really want to go back and start at the beginning and catch up on the other
characters who appear.
If you like a mystery with your history and romance, you cannot miss with this
great story. Thank you Netgallery and the Publisher for helping me find this new
author! Looking forward to reading more.
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adventure emotional great-cover
...more
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Sissy's Romance Book Review
8,908 reviews16 followers
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October 29, 2019
Reckless in Red by Rachael Miles is book 4 in The Muses' Salon Series. This is
the story of Clive Somerville and Lena Frost. I have read the previous books but
feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so. Lena has worked
hard to get her art out there and to get by on her own accord. But then the
unthinkable happens that seems to be taking her dream away. Clive is doing some
investigation for the Home Office that brings him to Lena who he is trying to
figure out what is going on with her as a victim or something else. Enjoyed
their story.
2019-read 4-star arc-netgalley
...more
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Cardyn Brooks
Author 4 books29 followers
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December 27, 2019
This latest entry in the irresistible Muses' Salon series was worth the wait.
Lena and Clive's love story is emotionally layered with their personal
challenges as individuals and the broader issues of gender and class. Multiple
mysterious happenings and conflicts of interest add page-turning intrigue.
Fingers crossed that the fifth installment satisfies the author's fans with a
happily-ever-after for the elusive Mr. James.
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go-to-author go-to-series historical-romance
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Krystal
1,248 reviews31 followers
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October 18, 2019
This was one of those novels that while well written, was also a bit confusing.
It wasn't confusing because it was the fourth in a series, let me be clear on
that, it was confusing because a lot of it just didn't make sense.
I can get behind the fact that no one recognized Lena despite her name changes.
Moving around the way she did makes sense. I didn't quite understand why her
inheritance was merely a house, but even without that, the moment she moved to
collect said inheritance, it would have put her right back in the crosshairs of
the people she was trying to avoid so doing what she did made the whole thing
seem unnecessary. Especially when you factor in what it did to Clive.
Another flaw that I found with this story is that at times, it drags on. Even
with the fact that it changes points of view in certain areas, I didn't feel
utterly captivated by this story. I did enjoy Lena's firey survivalist
personality, and I thought it meshed well with Clive's. Despite the fact that
they both harbored some pretty serious secrets and were slow to trust anyone,
those qualities made their eventual trust of each other more believable (and
more endearing).
All things considered, I know there are people who will enjoy this story more
than I did, and I would definitely read more from this author as I have read
other works in this particular series and enjoyed them.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my
honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and
opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
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Sandra Berryman
444 reviews4 followers
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September 21, 2019
The premise of this book was promising but it started very slow and I found
myself skipping through pages, it just didn't click for me. I received an e-book
from NetGalley in return for an unbiased review. I
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Pj Ausdenmore
769 reviews34 followers
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October 24, 2019
It's been a while since my last Rachael Miles book and I had forgotten how very
much I enjoy her writing. Her characters are complex and intriguing, engaging my
emotions while ensuring my full investment in their lives and happiness.
In Reckless in Red, Miles returns to the Somerville family for the story of
younger brother, Clive, a physician researcher and special agent for the Home
Office, and Lena Frost, a gifted artist with a mysterious past. I really enjoyed
these two. They are so perfect for one another. Miles gives them many layers
that she unravels slowly and skillfully as the story progresses. With each
reveal, I found myself caring more deeply for that character; more invested in
them. In particular, my heart ached for what Lena had endured and I admired her
strength and determination all the more.
A talented storyteller, Miles also weaves an intricately crafted thread of
mystery and danger that binds the couple even tighter together as they work to
find Lena's missing partner, solve several mysterious murders, and, most
importantly, stay alive themselves. I enjoy mystery mixed with my romance and
this series has an enjoyable blend of it.
Another aspect of Miles' writing that I enjoy is her attention to detail. In
this book, the technical and historical details relating to both Lena's and
Clive's careers add an extra layer of richness to the story. I love finishing a
novel, having been entertained, emotionally engaged, and gaining new knowledge.
Many of Clive's family members are prominently featured in this book along with
some new characters and one persistent villain whose unmasking I am most eagerly
anticipating. Fans of the series will enjoy catching up with the Somervilles
while those new to Miles' books should have no difficulty jumping in with
Reckless in Red.
4.5 stars
ARC received via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
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viktoria
224 reviews65 followers
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October 16, 2019
Over a sinus infection quarantine weekend, I read Book #2 of this series (which
has one of all-time favorite tropes, "hiding from danger and/or investigating
something uncover"), then this ARC, and finally Book #3. (I didn't read #1
because it doesn't look like my thing.) Miles does a nice job taking the things
you're used to seeing and spinning them in a fresh (albeit not groundbreaking)
way. Of the three, this book was my least favorite, but I still enjoyed it, and
the fact that it kept me reading for 3 of the 4 books available in the series
when I have approximately 7 million other things to read pays a big compliment.
✓s: Overall, I liked the book solidly across the board: characterization, plot,
& etc. The thing that worked the best for me, however, was Clive and Lena's
jobs, particularly Clive's. I don't necessarily dislike a random viscount
investigating a crime or a duke serving as part of the Home Office despite the
reality factor because: 1) I prefer reading mystery and crime-based plots (or at
least books with those elements) and most of the time, people want the
characters to be lords, so whatever, make that money, authors; 2) I'm not
exactly reading these for the accuracy and realism factor; and 3) occasionally,
it will make sense. Clive's job functions really well here, though; he had a
legit reason to look into things, a reasonable connection to the home office, it
served the plot well, and it made his character (and the book) stand out.
[Spoiler: since it's not mentioned in the summary (although it is in previous
books in the series and it's mentioned early on in the book), I'll spoiler tag
that Clive is a physician, and because of that, he kind of works as a medical
examiner type person for the Home Office, although he obviously goes way beyond
that role at times like a TV police procedural ME. [/spoiler] Likewise, Lena has
a regular job, and that job is the thing that brought the investigation to her
and that kept her involved.
Neutrals/Possible Negatives: So, if you haven't read the other books, the family
plays a strong role and has a steady presence in the book. I think you can
follow along without reading the other books without much problem, but while I
had read Book #2 before and liked seeing them again (especially Colin and Lucy—I
was beyond thrilled for them) you probably won't appreciate their presence as
much and they'd probably clutter the book for you a bit.
✘s: The plot stalled a few times and could've used some sharpening, sometimes a
few too many elements feel slapped together for the sake of it, and while I
understood the reasoning behind some of Lena's actions, my brain screamed tell
him the truth more than once or twice. Also, I appreciate the idea of the Muses'
Salon, but it sometimes feels a little forced and gimick-y? (Or is that just
because I'm an introvert loner who sucks at joining things?)
tl;dr: 3.5, and a series/author I'll keep an eye out for, yay!
Disclaimer: Thanks Netgalley & publisher for the free ARC, with no incentive or
coercion on your parts.
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Amy Alvis
2,001 reviews84 followers
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November 1, 2019
Lena is about to open her panorama where she hopes to finally get recognition
for her artistic endeavors. But just a few weeks prior to it opening, her
business partner goes missing with all the subscription money and leaves a
cryptic message. The same day that her business partner and the money go
missing, Clive comes snooping around her office. She lies to him about who she
is as she doesn't know what he wants. Hopefully she'll never see him again...
Clive is a physician and is trying to solve a string of murders. Lena's missing
business partner reached out to him, saying that he had evidence that would help
Clive. When he arrives to talk to him, he runs into Lena. He is intrigued by
her, but doesn't look beyond the image she portray herself as.
They soon meet up again and Clive learns who Lena really is. They both realize
that her life is in danger and work together to find the culprits. As they spend
more and more time together, they develop feeling for each other. Can this
painter and son of a duke find their HEA with each other?
I loved Lena and Clive's story! Lena is scared to share much about herself as
she doesn't know if she can trust Clive, therefore the romance starts out
slowly. But it was enjoyable to watch the slow burn as they were both very
attracted to the other from the beginning. I loved seeing some of the other
Muses as I've throughly enjoyed this whole series! This was a great addition to
the Muses' Salon series!
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MrsMascara
728 reviews2 followers
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December 8, 2019
Complex and convoluted and completely gripping to me.
I loved this, because the mystery was allowed to develop well, the setting - an
artist, working on panoramas was fascinating to read about, as was the part of
the plot about the Resurrectionists, and body snatching. I really enjoyed the
gothic suspense of this story. I also found Lena, as a character very
compelling, her difficult childhood, how she was trying to hold her plans and
life together with little support and practically no resources, including her
inability to trust and confide in Colin, which was very believable. I thought
that the plot with the villains Charters and Flute well done, and Colin and his
family were a delight. I did struggle a bit with the cast of thousands, but I
loved the POC representation, the strong women living differently from the
aristocracy, which is what we normally read in this setting, and the idea of the
muses salon. On the strength of this ARC, I have bought the other books in the
series and read 2 of them.
Highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions are
my own.
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Edwina
339 reviews
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February 23, 2020
Reckless in Red is the fourth book in the Muses' Salon series. I have been
anticipating this book for a while now and was so glad that I got the chance to
savour the book as part of my summer reading. It had a brilliant set of
characters, beautifully crafted storyline and descriptions and as you would
expect - any novel from the Muses' Salon series always kept me up with suspense,
mystery and romance. It's just the kind of thing you need on a summer's day!
Lena's characterisation was crafted realistically and as humane as possible
which gives you a dose of reality. Alongside the discoveries of her past, her
relationship with Clive Somerville and their growing romance is what really
elevates the love I have for this book. I gave it 5 stars because although it is
lengthy at a whopping 300+ pages, it gives you the taste of adventure, romance
and a historical glimpse in Regency England. I quite enjoyed the historical
setting of the novel which transported me back into the past and I always enjoy
a novel that is not set in the 21st century. I am definitely looking forward to
the next book in the series and highly recommend this book!
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Debra Martin
Author 26 books251 followers
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October 6, 2019
Lena Frost has known hardship in her life, but she's a survivor and she's
determined to be judged by her artistic talent and not by her sex. Clive
Somerville comes across Lena in his work for the Home Office. The more time he
spends with her, the more he wants to help her. Her hired craftsmen are
disappearing, later to be found murdered. Someone wants her new panorama exhibit
to fail and Clive is determined to find out who the murderer is all the while
trying to keep Lena safe.
I enjoyed this book although it did start out slow in the beginning. The mystery
of who the murderer is kept the book moving along. Lena is a strong character,
unused to anyone offering help and she tries to keep her distance from Clive.
All too soon, however, she finds herself craving the company of Clive. If she's
not careful, she'll not only lose her livelihood, but also her heart to the
handsome lord. The ending is full of twists and turns, but I didn't like that
one of the threads was left unresolved.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
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Patricia Morgan
300 reviews2 followers
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October 24, 2019
This is book 4 in the Muses series. This is the story of Clive and Lena.
I consider this a romantic mystery thriller. Clive is investigating the
mysterious deaths of Emigrees showing up in his surgery school. His
investigation takes him to a Mr. Calder, where he meets Lena. They are both
looking for Mr. Calder, who is Lena's business partner. They decide to look for
him together. As people around Lena start turning up dead, Clive becomes
concerned and protective. There is an attraction between them. They both feel
it.
But who is committing these murders and why? The investigation becomes
dangerous, as at the same time their relationship grows.
I enjoyed this book. It was for the most part fast moving and kept you guessing.
I like her characters and their personalities.
I did find the conversations among the ressurectionists confusing at times. And
we do and we don't know who's responsible.
I'd like to thank netgalley for the chance to review this book.
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SynergyQuest
1,924 reviews8 followers
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October 31, 2019
4.5 stars - First, I think this book is misnamed. It should be Resilient in Red
or Vindication Wrapped in Vermillion. The heroine is the stuff of legend. Born
of a gentleman but treated like chattel, often when her father was in a mood or
always after being sent off to school, the heroine has grown, endured, and again
and again transformed herself into someone new to survive. She is a brilliant
artist who is eager and afraid of love and trust in equal measure. The hero is
equally admirable. Handsome, yes, but loyal, smart and kind too. He is likely
the only man worthy of the gift that the heroine proves to be.
It’s a delightful read full of villains you live to hate, friends and family
overflowing with love and a few folks you can quite get a read in until the very
end. I loved it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and
opinions are my own.
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Lovely Loveday
2,599 reviews
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October 24, 2019
The highly anticipated fourth book in The Muses' Salon series by Rachael Miles
is titled Reckless in Red. A historical romance that is sure to sweep you off
your feet with steamy romance! The characters are complex and intriguing, sure
to engage your emotions while you invest in their lives and happiness. Miles is
a remarkable storyteller and it shows in her writing. She weaves together a hint
of mystery and danger into a historical romance that will have you turning the
pages quickly. The perfect blend of mystery, romance, and intrigue. I can't wait
to read the next book in The Muses' Salon series.
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MDM
420 reviews9 followers
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October 26, 2019
Rachael Miles’ fourth book in The Muses Salon series tells the story on Lena
Frost, portrait and escape artist. Lena has been running from her past for a
long time, and very possibly it has caught up with her. With the help of
swoon-worthy Clive Somerville, she is going to have to face up to her enemies
whether she is ready or not.
While some parts of Lena’s story stretch credibility, this is a fast-moving tale
with interesting and unusual characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and
opinions are my own.
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Ashley (A Stack Above The Rest Blogg)
59 reviews6 followers
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September 16, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It kept my attention throughout the whole plot. I
felt there was a good balance of romance components with the energetic and fast
paced action of the plot. It was very thought out and Rachael's writing is
superb. I would definitely recommend this book to fellow lovers of historical
romance who love a strong female role.
I look forward to reading more from Rachael.
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Shasha
939 reviews29 followers
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December 23, 2019
This was a thick but engaging read. The plot is complex, multiple things are
happening that affect both main characters.
The title and cover is a bit misleading. The heroine doesn't have fancy
dresses--she is an artist and mostly poor. The hero is a surgeon and the brother
of a duke. There is some potent attraction.
It was refreshing to have a historical romance that wasn't rape-y. This one is
murderous instead. With an intriguing look into how corpses were obtained for
science.
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Didi Ps
772 reviews
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April 15, 2020
This seemed like a good premise for a book, but having the ISBN # & "all rights
reserved" statement on every single pages was quite distracting... Added to this
problem was that this info was never in the same spot on the page (it was
sometimes at the top, middle or bottom of the page), which meant it was very
difficult to ignore.
I got this book as an ARC, free as part of New England Readers' Choice Awards.
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Mrs W Woodruff
203 reviews1 follower
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November 27, 2023
Enjoyed this book- had mystery, romance and sexy.
Lena was a painter with a past. Someone was out to hurt her and she trusted
nobody. Clive was a surgeon, but was investigating murders. He met Lena during
his investigation and wondered if she could be the murder or the potential
victim. Either way he was not going to let her out of his sights.
2023-reading-challenge
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Helena#bookdreamer
1,202 reviews9 followers
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September 18, 2019
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This novel had the premise for a good mystery romance but the lack of
interesting characters and slow pace made this a bit difficult to through.
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Kim Vanravenswaay
1,396 reviews13 followers
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October 4, 2019
I had a hard time getting into the book in the beginning. It wasn't until
chapter 6 that I got interested. I'm really glad that I gave, Reckless in Red, a
chance.
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Foggygirl
1,785 reviews31 followers
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June 5, 2020
An ok read, disappointing as the series started with promise. Lena and Clive
didn’t have much in the way of on page chemistry and even the villain Charters
has become bland and uninteresting.
owned-read
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Travelmaven
611 reviews10 followers
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June 21, 2021
Three stars for the plot line. I just couldn't get into the characters - no
spark.
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Miriamgreen
880 reviews2 followers
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December 20, 2021
this i liked
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
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