Lady Angelina Marguerite Amelia Stewart was born in a time when women were valued for their beauty and titles but little else. As a beloved daughter, Angelina was blessed with a quick mind and a sharp wit which she used liberally regardless of consequences. Determined never to be owned by any man, she shunned societal rules to live life on her own terms. Surprised by her parents for her … nineteenth birthday, Angelina sets out on a sea voyage that will challenge her resolve and discovers a family secret that changes her life. Captain Jude Deveraux is living a double life. He is the Captain of a band of French privateers sanctioned by the King of France to steal and plunder unsuspecting ships that sail into his territory. Jude was awarded the title of Duke of Bayonne for services rendered to the Crown. He had been educated in the finest schools in London alongside other aristocratic noblemen so he knows how to blend in. Jilted in his youth, Jude is determined to take what he wants and he soon discovers that he wants Lady Stewart.
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This was an enjoyable historical romance, by a talented and delightful author. I do not normally review romance. I do, however, routinely review (and enjoy) historical fiction, and when Ms. Wigginton approached me about a review by emphasizing the latter over the former, I agreed to take a look. I am quite glad I did – she has an engaging, easy-going writing style that I quite enjoyed. And she spins a clever tale, to boot!
The eponymous Angelina is a marvelous heroine, full of spit and vinegar in all the best possible ways. She finds herself enmeshed in a rather startling amount of drama and (mis)adventure for a proper young lady – which is a quality I rather admire in proper young ladies. Her battle to control her own life and destiny is managed with aplomb and more than a little cheek, and makes for an entertaining tale. My one criticism is that she occasionally seemed a little too willing to drop all of her strongly-held perspectives on women’s rights when confronted by a pair of strong arms… Still, the heart wants what the heart wants I suppose – particularly in a book that is, admittedly, a romance.
Speaking of which – there is, of course, a fair amount of bodice ripping (albeit tasteful) and staring into one another’s [insert adjective here] eyes. But Diane did not steer me wrong – this is at least equally a piece of historical fiction and a mysterious adventure one at that. While I admit I did read a little more quickly when the romance element took over, I was always returned to the *main* story without undue distraction or delay. And the second half of the book is really much more adventure/quest than anything else. All in all this was an enjoyable tale and Angelina and her compatriots are worthy of a look!
My review copy was provided by the author. My review was, as always, entirely my own.
I love when I am asked to read a beloved genre book by a new to me author and can recommend it highly to others!
ANGELINA’S SECRET (Jeweled Dagger Series) by Diane Merrill Wigginton has everything I am looking for in a great historical romance read. A heroine who is true to her times, but independent and courageous set against a strong hero who is protective, but also values the heroine’s unique character and a plot and subplot that have adventure and intrigue twisting throughout the romance that keep you turning the pages.
Lady Angelina Stewart was born into a wealthy English aristocratic family that allowed her independence and to be as well educated as her beloved older brother, Jonathan in a time when most young ladies only cared about beauty and titles. Besides her education, two other things set Angelina apart. She has a bit of the sight, or a feeling when things are about to change in her life and she never wants to be wed. She is determined to never be owned by a man.
Captain Jude Deveraux is sailing the open seas as a French privateer for his king after receiving an award and title for bravery during battle. The Captain is also the Duke of Bayonne. He and his best friend Honore’ steal and plunder from unsuspecting ships and live for the adventure. A trap is set for the unsuspecting ship belonging to Angelina’s father. The trip is a birthday gift for Angelina from her father with her uncle to trade for their company. When the feisty Angelina stands up to the Captain pirate sparks begins to fly. A wager is made for the return of Angelina’s family ship and crew with safe passage if the cards favor Angelina.
Win or lose, Jude does not plan on letting the entrancing Angelina out of his life.
These two are meant to be together! Ms. Wigginton has written a hero and heroine that will be remembered long after the book is done. The secondary characters are also well developed and interesting. Set in the 18th century, my only slight problem with historical references was the white wedding gown. (Although possible, the white wedding gown didn’t become popular until the 19th century when Victoria wore one.)
This is a well written and entertaining historical romance, full of action, adventure and great characters. This is definitely a book and author to read and follow!