[Review] The Writer and the Rogue by Lydia Drake

   

Title: The Writer and the Rogue
Series: Debutantes of London Series, Book 2 (Interconnected Standalone)
Author: Lydia Drake
Genre: historical romance
Format: eBook 
Publication Date: April 14, 2025
Published By: Entangled Publishing, Amara       
Source: NetGalley (ARC)

Synopsis from Publisher

Desperate times call for drastic measures…and Miss Caroline Devereux is most certainly desperate. Her spendthrift father’s been gambling away every spare shilling, racking up debts, selling off their family’s coveted objets d’art, and bringing them to the edge of ruin. Up until now, she’s been able to stave off the creditors—and afford luxuries like tea—by penning sensational Gothic tales. But they’re out of time, and Caroline must play the one card she has left.

The Earl of Rockford cannot believe that any young lady would dare to blackmail him. Not only has she threatened to expose the darkest secrets of his family and destroy their name, but she’s done it all in an attempt to…marry him? And damned if he isn’t secretly delighted by her spirit. But first, Miss Caroline has a lesson to learn about who she’s dealing with…

No one warned Caroline that the handsome, wealthy earl she intends to marry isn’t remotely the gentleman she expected. Because the “Rogue of Whitechapel” isn’t about to go down without a fight…and the first to fall in love will be the first one to lose.

About Lydia Drake

Lydia Drake is a reader of all things romance and a drinker of all things tea. A New Jersey resident, her favorite activities include taking the train to New York City, scouring used bookstores, spending time with her family and wrangling her hyperactive cockapoo puppy. Cinderella and the Duke is her debut novel.

My Thoughts:

This one was a fun surprise!

The Writer and the Rogue is exactly the kind of historical romance I reach for when I want something light, witty, and just a bit rebellious. It’s got all the elements I enjoy—banter, a rogue with a mysterious past, and a heroine who is completely done with society’s expectations.

Our heroine is an aspiring writer who wants nothing to do with the ton or its silly rules. I loved how headstrong she was—smart, opinionated, and unwilling to play the part everyone expected of her.

She was made of ink and steel, it seemed.

The hero, meanwhile, is charming in that rogueish way that could have easily been cliché but somehow worked. Their interactions were full of tension, flirtation, and just enough vulnerability to keep me invested.

The banter sparkled in places, and the romantic tension had me turning pages to see how it would all play out. I also appreciated that while the story stayed relatively light, it still gave the characters emotional depth—especially toward the end, where things came together in a mostly satisfying way.

That said, it wasn’t perfect. The pacing in the middle sagged just a touch, and a few of the plot twists were fairly predictable. The third act breakup was annoyingly typical of these kinds of books.

But honestly? I still had a great time with this one. It was engaging, entertaining, and just the right kind of escape. I’ll definitely read more from Lydia Drake, especially if she keeps giving us strong heroines and swoony rogues. In fact, this is actually the second book in a series of interconnected standalones. I plan on going back to reach book one, The Duchess and the Wolf.

The Pros:

• Engaging Banter: The chemistry between the leads comes alive through clever, snappy dialogue.

• Strong Female and Male Leads: A headstrong, relatable heroine who refuses to conform makes the story feel refreshing, and an observant, kind, and caring, yet mysterious and daring male lead.

• Fun and Accessible Read: The book strikes a nice balance between romance, humor, and a hint of emotional depth—perfect for fans of feel-good historical romances.

The Cons:

• Slight Mid-Book Lag: The pacing slows a bit in the middle before picking up again toward the end.
  
  
• Some Predictability: A few of the plot beats follow expected romance tropes without much surprise and the third act breakup is predictably annoying.
  
  
• Language: The language throughout the story is predominantly very good, however, there are times when the word choice took me completely out of the story as it did not fit.

Final Thoughts:

If you're in the mood for a light, romantic escape with a touch of sass and a heroine who knows her worth, The Writer and the Rogue is a solid pick. It’s not without its flaws, but the charm, chemistry, and breezy writing make it an enjoyable read. Perfect for fans of Regency romance who don’t mind a familiar trope or two when they’re delivered with heart.

Rating:

Overall, using my rating system, this book is a 3.75 out of 5, but I rounded up to a 4 Super Splatters out of 5 because I am in love with Gabriel. 

[Review] Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher

 

Title: Nettle & Bone
Series: N/A - Standalone
Author: T. Kingfisher
Genre: adult, fantasy, magic
Format: audiobook
Publication Date: April 26, 2022
Published By: Tor Publishing Group       
Source: Audible

Synopsis from Publisher

After years of seeing her sisters suffer at the hands of an abusive prince, Marra—the shy, convent-raised, third-born daughter—has finally realized that no one is coming to their rescue. No one, except for Marra herself.

Seeking help from a powerful gravewitch, Marra is offered the tools to kill a prince—if she can complete three impossible tasks. But, as is the way in tales of princes, witches, and daughters, the impossible is only the beginning.

On her quest, Marra is joined by the gravewitch, a reluctant fairy godmother, a strapping former knight, and a chicken possessed by a demon. Together, the five of them intend to be the hand that closes around the throat of the prince and frees Marra's family and their kingdom from its tyrannous ruler at last.

About T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher is the vaguely absurd pen-name of Ursula Vernon. In another life, she writes children's books and weird comics, and has won the Hugo, Sequoyah, and Ursa Major awards, as well as a half-dozen Junior Library Guild selections.

This is the name she uses when writing things for grown-ups.

When she is not writing, she is probably out in the garden, trying to make eye contact with butterflies.

My Thoughts:

If you love fairy tales with a dark twist, Nettle & Bone is definitely worth checking out. T. Kingfisher takes familiar fantasy elements—curses, impossible tasks, and a ragtag group of misfits—and turns them into something fresh and fun. It’s a little spooky, a little funny, and full of heart.

The story follows Marra, a princess who has spent most of her life in a convent, watching from the sidelines as her older sisters are forced into political marriages. When she discovers that her sister’s husband, a powerful prince, is abusive and dangerous, she decides she won’t sit back any longer. But killing a prince isn’t exactly easy, so she sets off on a strange and magical journey to gather allies—including a necromancer (who prefers to be called a dust-wife), a reluctant knight, a fairy godmother with unreliable magic, an enchanted chicken, and her ever faithful bone dog. Along the way, Marra must complete impossible tasks, face eerie supernatural dangers, and finally find the strength to change her own fate.

This book isn’t your typical high-stakes fantasy full of battles and dramatic showdowns. Instead, it’s a quiet, creeping kind of adventure, filled with dark fairy tale elements and quirky humor. The writing is atmospheric and immersive, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a story passed down through generations—one that’s a little grim, a little odd, but ultimately hopeful.

The Pros:

• Unique Spin on Fairy Tales – This isn’t your typical “hero saves the day” story. Instead, we follow Marra, a princess who’s been mostly ignored all her life, as she decides to take matters into her own hands. The story has a slow-burn feel, but it’s packed with cool, eerie moments—like a bone dog and a fairy godmother who’s more practical than magical.
• Quirky & Likable Characters – The best part of this book is the cast. Marra is quiet and determined, the dust-wife (a necromancer) is sarcastic and awesome, and even the chicken (yes, there’s a chicken, actually, there are two!) steals the show. Their interactions bring warmth and humor to an otherwise dark story.
• Engaging & Atmospheric Writing – Kingfisher has a way of making everything feel rich and immersive. Whether it’s the creepy, cursed objects or the dangerous journey, the descriptions pull you in without being overwhelming.

The Cons:

• Slow Start – The first few chapters take their time setting things up, and it gets a little confusing between locations, which might make it hard to get hooked right away. But once Marra gets her mission, things pick up.
• Not a High-Stakes Adventure – If you’re expecting a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy, this isn’t it. The story leans more on character interactions and quiet tension rather than big battles or epic magic.
• Underwhelming Villain – The antagonist (Marra’s cruel brother-in-law) is definitely evil, but he feels more like a distant threat rather than a fully developed character. A little more depth could have made the final confrontation more intense.

Final Thoughts:

Nettle & Bone is a beautifully written fairy tale for adults, full of wit, charm, and a little bit of darkness. While it starts slow and isn’t action-heavy, it makes up for it with fantastic characters and an original, eerie vibe. If you enjoy fairy tale retellings or cozy-yet-creepy fantasy, give it a try! Do it for bone dog!

Rating:

Overall, using my rating system, this book is a 3.5 out of 5, but I rounded up to a 4 Super Splatters out of 5 for Bone Dog. 

[Update] 2024 Audible Listening Stats

Hello everyone! I know, it's been a while, but life has been crazy. I have been working at a toxic workplace for the past three years, and I never had time to breathe. The best thing I ever did was giving my notice after Christmas and starting a new job mid January. I have been so much happier and less stressed since, so I felt it was a good time to get back into reading and reviewing books. I am even thinking about doing some Booktube or Bookstagram, or something like that. What do you think?

Anyhow, since I was so busy for the past three years I haven't been able to physically read, but, thanks to to the horribly long commute, I was at least able to listen to some good audiobooks, so here are my 2024 Audible listening stats. I did listen to some through my library as well, so those are not included below.

If you are still here, reading my blog, thank you so much. You have no idea what it means to me.

Take care of yourselves, and see you soon for new book reviews, etc. 

[Book Blitz] Curse & Craving by Jill Ramsower

Curse & Craving
Jill Ramsower
(Of Myth & Man, #1)
Publication date: April 4th 2022
Genres: Adult, Romance, Urban Fantasy

My new job landed me in another country, but it might as well have been an entirely different world.
An underground world of magic and secrets ruthlessly guarded by an elite group of Fae warriors.

This place has brought out a power buried deep within me.
A dark and monstrous power.

I have no choice but to turn to the Fae for help.

Lochlan is the leader of those warriors meant to guard the border between realms.
He’s secretive and arrogant yet undeniably alluring.
I have no reason to trust him, but he’s the only person who can teach me to protect myself.

He pushes me to my limits and threatens to unravel me with every husky command.
More than anyone, he has the power to undo me.
Because with every lesson, I lose more of myself to him and this new world I never asked to be a part of.

Author’s Note: This story was originally published as part of The Fae Games Series but has been substantially rewritten. This 140,000 word urban fantasy romance novel is for adult audiences.

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—

EXCERPT:

We walked a mile or so to the city gates, where we were offered a mount by the city guards to ride to the palace in the center of the city. Not anticipating visitors, they only had one spare horse at the gate. We would have to ride together.

Of course, we would.

I took a deep breath and joined Lochlan near the majestic black beast. The horse began to whinny anxiously and prance in place, his brown eyes bulging wide. I was no horse expert, but it was plain that the horse was uncomfortable with my presence.

“Stop upsetting the horse,” Lochlan said as he walked up to the agitated creature and took the reins, stroking the behemoth’s neck while cooing softly at him.

“I’m not doing anything!” I replied indignantly.

Lochlan grunted, then swung me onto the saddle without warning. I squealed like a five-year-old girl.

“Stop your screaming. You’ll upset the horse more than he already is.”

“I couldn’t help it. You startled me. Next time, let me know before you throw me onto the back of an angry animal.” Boorish, impossible man.

Lochlan lifted himself onto the saddle behind me, one arm snaking around my middle. His lips lowered to my ear. “Keep up with the attitude and see where it gets you.”

His words sent an avalanche of shivers down my spine.

Before I could recover, he gave the reins a tug. The horse surged forward, forcing me to cling to Lochlan’s arm at my waist.

Author Bio:

Award-winning author of contemporary and fantasy romance. With Jill’s books, you can count on confident heroines, plenty of steamy tension, and deliciously assertive leading men. There are no guarantees in life, but with her books, you know everything will work out in the end. However, a perfect ending would not be nearly as satisfying without a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Jill loves to add plenty of adversity in her stories, creating unforgettably dynamic characters and sneaky plot twists you will never see coming.

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[Book Blitz] Savage City by L. Penelope

Savage City
L. Penelope
(The Bliss Wars, #1)
Publication date: March 31st 2022
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

For Talia, death is only the beginning of survival…

When a tragic accident cuts my lonely life short, instead of heaven or hell, I’m stolen away to a terrifying city of warring shifter clans—the Nimali and the Fai. The Nimali mistake me for their missing princess. Her father, the dragon king, is identical to my own. But in this world, he dotes on me with the love and affection I always craved. And in a land with no tolerance for outsiders, feigning amnesia and impersonating shifter royalty may be the only way to survive.

For Ryin, falling in love is the worst kind of betrayal…

As a Fai warrior in captivity, I’m forced to serve my enemy even as I plot their destruction. The lost princess returned much changed, now the heat between us crackles irresistibly. While helping her heal using my magical talents, I begin to question what I thought I knew about the Nimali. She remains as forbidden as ever, but she also might be the key to freedom for me and my people.

Caught between two enemy factions balancing on the knife-blade of annihilation, our lies are the only thing keeping us alive, but they just might be our undoing.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

On top of the wall, silence reigns as the soldiers wait for word. We all stare toward the ground, anticipation a dark cloud suspended over us as sharp eyes scan the gloom for either a member of the scouting team that went out an hour ago or a Revoker, red eyes flashing and fangs covered in gristle and blood.

The first person who runs into view is tall and familiar and very much Nimali. His armor is blood spattered, but he appears uninjured. Others sigh audibly in relief, but my jaw tightens. Prince Shad. I wouldn’t have minded if he’d been grievously injured. My daimon silently chastises me for the unkindness, but I can’t help it. There are only two Nimali men who could have killed Dove, and he’s one of them. Until I’m certain it wasn’t him, I have to act like it was.

A bear and a lion are close behind him—part of the prince’s honor guard. The bear’s gait is hampered by a pronounced limp, though she still eats up the ground with long strides. Then my focus returns to the prince. He’s carrying something—someone—over his shoulder like a sack of beans. His bounding steps cross the distance easily, and then he’s at the rope ladder a soldier threw down. He climbs it with one arm while holding what I can see now is an injured woman.

Blood pours down her back from gashes that I’m sure were made by a Revoker’s claws. Her clothing is odd. A short, loose dress, oddly patterned and flimsy—I’ve never seen anything like it before, not on a Nimali or a Fai. Why anyone would go into No Man’s Land without battle armor is a mystery, but the woman is also barefoot. Begrudging respect bubbles up from my chest for the way the prince is able to negotiate the climb with that much dead weight, carried awkwardly. He could have shifted into his other form and flown up, but his own claws might have further injured her. And he is definitely treating her like something special.

The reason becomes clear when he finally gets to the top and one of the soldiers reaches out to help him with his burden. Prince Shad shakes his head and gently lays the woman down on her side, revealing her face.

I’m too far away to see at first, but when the soldiers in front of me gasp and immediately kneel, I get a glimpse. Princess Celena lies there, bloodied and battered. Her rich, chestnut skin is ashen, taking on an almost gray pallor. I’m frozen in place for a moment viewing her small form, her strange, tattered clothing, the odd way she’s braided her hair.

Then I’m shoved hard from behind, stumbling forward through the kneeling men and women.

“Where is the healer?” Prince Shad roars, but I’m already there, crouching down beside the princess. My daimon joins me seconds later, eager to fill me with its essence and lend me its healing power.

Celena’s back is ravaged, the wounds already bubbling with the poison from the Revoker’s talons. They look fresh, so it’s not too late to heal them if I’m quick about it. I hold out my hands and close my eyes, letting my daimon fully take over. Its energy flows through me, using my physical body as a conduit for its power.

Through my daimon, I sense the damage, the torn flesh and the toxins that have already entered her bloodstream. The healing energy pulls the poison out, a sticky black substance that leaks onto the stone of the wall. The flesh, layers of muscle and skin, is knit back together until there isn’t so much as a scar left. I silently thank my daimon and it retreats. Then I open my eyes.

Prince Shad is staring down at his sister. When the blue light of my power retreats, his dark eyes flick up to mine.

“I removed the poison,” I tell him.

“All of it?” I nod. His lips flatten into a grim line. “We’re taking her back to the Citadel. Come with me; the king will want to be sure.”

Author Bio:

L. Penelope has been writing since she could hold a pen and loves getting lost in the worlds in her head. She is an award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal romance. Equally left and right-brained, she studied filmmaking and computer science in college and sometimes dreams in HTML. After living on both coasts, she settled in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Sign up for new release information and giveaways on her website: http://www.lpenelope.com.

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