Emily Leverton is a young governess working for the Eastmoreland House in 1850s England. Even though her current role is a respectable occupation among the ton, she possesses skills not expected of a lady of her station. So when a mysterious woman recruits her for a secret network of spy governesses, these skills become useful. She also sees it as a way to atone for her past, the darkest secret that she mustn’t let anyone find out. While on a mission at a ball one night, she spots an incredibly handsome man politely dodging propositions by the ton’s single women – and she doesn’t hide her amusement. The man is ex-soldier/railroad industrialist/detective constable Zachariah Denholm. Zach sees her and is determined to learn who she is. What was a seemingly innocent encounter turns into a rapidly growing love affair between the two. But as Zach pursues a deeper connection, Emily turns him down. Because his standing as a police officer and one of the wealthiest men in the region would be compromised if Emily’s truth about her past ever came to light. Never Blow a Kiss by Lindsay Lovise is a historical romance novel that follows Emily’s inner turmoil as she struggles to keep her secret safe while navigating her true feelings for Zach. Because if anyone ever found out what she did, it could ruin them both.
Book
The parts from her past that Emily is more willing to share are in regards to her upbringing. She can stop a pickpocket in the less savory parts of town. She carries a small dagger wherever she goes. And she certainly doesn’t shy away from the tough nature of her secret job. While society might not approve of these qualities, they only make Zach want her more. But her deepest, most shameful secret stops her from allowing anything more serious than midnight rendezvous in secret. She is afraid of what Zach might think of her. But the gossip would spread like wildfire and would ruin everything she’s worked so hard for – a respectable job and a safe life.
Zach on the other hand, is at his wit’s end trying to catch the Evangelist – a serial killer targeting the town’s prostitutes. Little does he know, Emily’s secret tasks related to her employment put her directly in Zach’s path of the investigation. So they inevitably team up in their sleuthing, adding more opportunities for the undeniable chemistry between them. Yet Emily continues to uphold her boundaries, or else it may turn into something that puts everything else at risk. Not to mention the fact that a certain socialite will stop at nothing to entrap Zach into marrying one of her daughters. The couple certainly has their work cut out for them.
Review
Lovise crafted an entertaining and lovely start to the series with Never Blow a Kiss. I seriously devoured it. I love historical fiction, but didn’t anticipate the level of sexual tension and steamy scenes between Emily and Zach, or how it would work so seamlessly in this genre. Even so, the non-steamy parts of their relationship were also endearing and adorable. Between their quirks, sweet and humorous love notes, and Zach’s relentless pursuit of a more serious relationship with Emily, I loved them as a couple. He falls fast and hard, yet readers will understand her hesitation given what’s at stake. They both grew up in poverty, and aren’t easily fazed by the realities of life outside of luxury. This made their bond believable, and their competence to track down a killer stronger.
I also might have developed a crush on Zach. He certainly takes charge in both his professional and love life. Yet he isn’t afraid to be vulnerable when it comes to whip-smart Emily. He is definitely a swoon-worthy character, and the very likable Emily deserves a man like him. On top of all of this, the intense romance didn’t distract from the mystery elements of the plot. The story was well-paced with action scenes that further demonstrate the characters’ capabilities. The ending was satisfying, yet I will nevertheless be patiently waiting for the next one.
Lindsay Lovise joins the Cantina Book Club podcast to talk about what draws her to historical romance and plans for the next book. Keep an ear out for the episode and pre-order Never Blow a Kiss, available January 23.
