A reunion with a rogue?
Polished Jesslyn Chance has one of the most enviable positions in the little Regency coastal village of Grace-by-the-Sea. She is the hostess of the spa, arranging introductions and entertainments and playing matchmaker to the ladies and gentlemen who come to take the waters, promenade through the shops, and dance at the assembly. But when a rogue returns from her past, … when a rogue returns from her past, Jess finds herself suddenly at sea.
Always an adventurer, Larkin Denby left Grace-by-the-Sea to right the wrongful death of his father. Now he’s back on a mission: to identify the mysterious Lord of the Smugglers who allegedly sails from Grace Cove and takes England’s secrets to France. But Grace-by-the-Sea is the perfect little spa town, run by the still oh-so-perfect Jesslyn Chance. When the village’s future is threatened, Jess must work with Lark to solve the mystery and protect the town’s own. In doing so, the matchmaker of Grace-by-the-Sea may just find that the best match for her is the rogue who stole her heart years ago.
If you like sweet, witty Regency romances with a touch of adventure, then you’ll love this first in a series novel from an award-winning author.
“A great beginning to a new series by one of the best names in Regency romance.” Huntress Reviews
Begin your journey to Grace-by-the-Sea, where romance and adventure come home, today.
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I wasn’t expecting this tale of romance, community life, and intrigue in a tiny coastal English town to be so much fun – but it certainly is. I look forward to learning more about Howland in the next installment.
Larkin and Jesslyn’s story speaks of lost love and years separated from each other. It also has intrigue, smugglers and war looming with Napoleon.
A well written story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
They are stand alone but for sure better for the others to continue the mystery.
Larkin Denby is sent to Grace-By-The-Sea to search out the identity of “the Lord of the Smugglers” who is rumored to set sail from Grace Cove. Jesslyn Chance is the hostess of a spa to support her small family. These two had been attracted to each other years before. Will their love be strong enough this time?
This is a delightful start to a new series by this author. From the start, Jess leaps from the page as a determined young lady who isn’t about to let life sit her by. She works hard at her position and has endeared herself to the residents of Grace-By-The-Sea.
Lark has his reasons for having left the area years before, breaking Jess’ heart. He is reluctant at first to pursue a romance with her, but he soon decides to let love have its way. He lets her assist him on his mission, listening to her wisdom in regards to the delightful characters that make up Grace-By-The-Sea.
The plot moves at a good pace. The entire cast of characters had my interest and I look forward to reading more about them as the series continues!
For readers looking for a clean, Regency romance series, I whole-heartedly recommend this one!
Whether it’s historical or Regency romance, Regina Scott always delivers an entertaining, solid story. Regencies are a strong suit for her, however, and I loved The Matchmaker’s Rogue, which begins a new series set on the Dorset coast.
The year is 1804, during the Napoleonic Wars, the setting is the idyllic town of Grace-by-the-Sea, a quaint coastal village built around the healing mineral waters of a local spa, and whose very name calls to me. There’s a perfect blend of history, romance and mystery, with the action being steady rather than fast paced – which I loved, as it gave me time to know the characters well. Certain aspects of this story, such as the Dorset setting and smuggling theme, reminded me of the writing of one of my favorite authors, Victoria Holt.
Lark and Jess are appealing lead characters, so easy to connect with. Jess, who finds fulfillment in helping others, is an ideal hostess for the spa and its guests. She has a natural feel for people, and uses that intuitiveness to arrange friendships and sometimes even courtships … “On any given day, she kept as many as three dozen people healthy and happy.” Yet for all her interaction with people, at times she seemed to be the type of person who finds themselves alone in a crowded room. Lark, who grew up in the area and cares for Jess, returns after eight years with the assignment of capturing a smuggling ring suspected of operating out of Grace-by-the-Sea. Memories resurface for both of them, with Jess sensing that “Lark was a storm cloud on the horizon, promising wind, rain, an upset to conditions.” I loved the sweet romance and chemistry between them, as Lark found the home he didn’t realize he’d been missing.
The Matchmaker’s Rogue is filled with charming and sometimes quirky secondary characters. I adored Jess’s aunt, Maudie, and always felt her folklore allusions to trolls, mermaids, fairies, etc. had an element of truth to them. In addition to the criminal element of smuggling, there’s also the concern of spies and passing of England’s secrets to Napoleon. The author skillfully aroused this reader’s suspicion of almost all of Grace-by-the-Sea characters, including the local vicar, magistrate, and even Jess’s own brother. There’s also some interesting history involved in the political aspects of the conscripting of soldiers and the value of small-town militias.
The ending arrives at a very satisfying conclusion, with the village coming together in a unique way. Very little is quite as it seems on the surface! I hated to leave Grace-by-the-Sea and its many endearing characters, but there’s the promise of much more to come.
Recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Prism Book Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
In her brand new series, Regina Scott invites readers to Grace-by-the-Sea. This small seaside village appears tranquil and idyllic on the surface yet what lurks under the surface is questionable.
The Matchmaker’s Rogue introduces many of the villagers, including Jesslyn Chance who works as the hostess of the local spa. She finds contentment in providing assisting the visitors, providing for their needs. When a man from her past shows up with claims of nefarious happenings in her home, Jesslyn protests and joins the investigation in order to prove him wrong. Yet, as they dig, implications point to someone she loves.
Jesslyn is an extremely likable character. She’s kind, even when others don’t return the sentiment, and had a servant’s heart. She finds her joy and contentment in helping others, so it’s no wonder the villagers love her.
Scott combines intrigue, romance, and small-town loyalty with a setting and characters I want to visit again. Not to mention an ending that makes me want to discover more about this sleepy little village. If you’re a fan of Regency and haven’t read Regina Scott’s books yet, you’re missing out.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The Matchmaker’s Rogue is the start of the new series by Regina Scott Grace by the Sea. I love Regina’s writing and this one is probably among one of my favorites I have read by her to date. I loved this sweet and delightful regency era story. Jesslyn and Larkin were great characters to get to know. There are some scenes that did make me giggle and smile, especially from the aunt. There is a little bit of suspense that kept me wondering what was going to be on the next page.
I am giving The Matchmaker’s Rogue five plus stars. I can not wait to see what happens next in the Grace by the Sea series.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
If you follow my blog, you know that I love books! You may also know that I love clean Regency romance books. I think my love for the time period and genre started in junior high when I started reading my grandma’s Georgette Heyer books like Arabella and Venetia. The genre is still a favorite of mine, and I always love finding a new series.
I’ve read books and novellas by Regina Scott before, and I am a fan! Her characters are always so well written and lively. The characters in The Matchmaker’s Rogue are no exception. Jesslyn is so poised and confident when she’s running the spa and matchmaking; however, her confidence wavers when Larkin Denby walks through the door. After all, he’s been gone for years, and she had strong feelings for him. She’s unsure of herself and of Lark’s intentions. Who wouldn’t be? Larkin is similar to Jess in that he’s confident in himself where work is concerned. He’s got a mission, and he won’t let anything stop him.
The spa goers, the townspeople, and Jess’s brother and aunt are wonderfully written side characters. They’re all unique. Some of them play a bigger role than others, but I really love how their personalities shine through in Scott’s writing. Side note: The other books I’ve read by Regina Scott have characters that are just as fun and well written as these. Another side note (I guess I’m distracted tonight!): Even if I hadn’t loved the rest of the book (I did!) I’d recommend this book just so you could get to know Jess’s eccentric aunt! I loved her!
I really enjoyed the mystery and trying to solve it along with Jess and Lark. It definitely kept me guessing. I like how the author explores the moral dilemma surrounding the idea of smuggling. The Matchmaker’s Rogue is a mystery that will keep you guessing and a romance that will leave your heart feeling happy. I can’t wait for more Grace-by-the-Sea books.
Eight years is a long time to wait for someone, even if you didn’t realize you were waiting. Jess and Lark met eight years ago when he visited her small coastal town. He broke her heart and now he is back.
The Matchmaker’s Rogue was a pleasure to read. I loved the characters. The eccentric residents and the “crazy” aunt all added a wonderful feel to the book. Aunt Maudie always popped in with one of her “fantasies” at the right moment. Whether it be trolls, mermaids, pirates, or the occasional mention of smugglers. Her presence always softened the intensity of the moment.
Regina Scott kept the right amount of mystery present. She did not reveal who the smugglers were but added hints that could point to any member of the community. All were suspect. It made it fun to find out at the end each person’s role in the intrigue.
I enjoyed this book. It was the perfect blend of romance, mystery, and townsfolk. I can’t wait to see who is matched in the next installment of the series.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
A great start to the series!
Oh, hooray! Another adventure series by Regina Scott. And it started out with a bang in The Matchmaker’s Rogue!
Jess is the perfect hostess and knows just how to make everyone at the spa comfortable and happy. I adored the wonderful descriptions of her in this role and how marvelously she fit and yet how alone she was.
Jess’ Aunt Maudie was a riot! She saw mermaids, trolls, and fairies everywhere. I cracked up when Lark was speaking to her thinking he was getting information that would help him find the smugglers only to realize. . .
In this small village, Lark suspected everyone until he could be convinced otherwise. And despite me knowing that there were secrets that several of the gentlemen were keeping, nothing was what it appeared to be on the surface. It was such fun reading and trying to figure out who to trust and who the smugglers were.
Historically speaking, I couldn’t believe that with all the books I’ve read about the Napoleonic Wars that I hadn’t realized how long they went on. Or the way the soldiers were conscripted and the way the local militias played into matters. I learned so many things about how this had worked and got a new appreciation for the impact of a conflict that lasted for such a long time!
While things wrapped up neatly, they didn’t. The ending hints at much more to come in this series: more mysteries to unravel, more adventures. I can’t wait!!
Read my review of The Matchmaker’s Rogue by Regina Scott at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
I have long considered Regency novels one of my favorite, especially those written by authors I have read and enjoyed before. So it was with eagerness that I picked up the first in a new series by Regina Scott. I expected a fun story, but in this instance, the novel exceeded my expectations by giving me a mysterious tale that kept me guessing until the end; even after I felt like I had perhaps figured it out, the need to confirm it ensured I turned those final pages to make sure I hadn’t missed something important.
Since I’ve read many Regencies, it feels like a comfortable time period to me, but I always find that I learn something new when reading one of Scott’s novels. Whether it’s a verbalized expression like “fallen top over toes” or a technical term for a water pump used during that time, I appreciate feeling like I better understand the era after reading her work.
The characters are fun in this book, especially Jess’ aunt, Maudie. We get enough of her backstory to appreciate her quirks and perhaps why she is as we see her, but my heart melted at Jess’ understanding and care for her relative that others might, particularly at this time, have seen as an unfair burden. The other secondary characters are largely mysterious with the suspicion of smuggling hanging over their heads, but they also come across as multi-dimensional rather than paper villains.
I enjoyed Jess and Lark’s story—both their individual journeys and the one they undertake together. Learning to trust their futures despite their pasts is not easy, but the two of them work alongside each other to heal hurts even as they solve the smuggling mystery, despite the danger and potential heartache it may bring.
I highly recommend this story to fans of Regency fiction, to those who enjoy a romance with a hint of mystery and suspense, or anyone who has in interest in historical smuggling or espionage. Scott does not disappoint and I look forward to the next release in her Grace-by-the-Sea series.
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
This was a delightful and clean Regency tale! Romance with a dash of mystery and danger mixed together in the beautiful and tranquil setting of Grace-by-the-Sea.
I enjoyed these characters, from Jess and Lark, to the various and frequently amusing side characters. Jess’s Aunt Maudie provided such comic relief in an endearing manner. I loved the way most of the residents shrugged off her fanciful comments, while accepting her for the woman she was.
The Matchmaker’s Rogue was such a good story! I enjoyed it from start to finish and look forward to reading more in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Matchmaker’s Rogue by Regina Scott
Grace-by-the-Sea Series Book One
Jesslyn Chance is the spa hostess in the small village of Grace-by-the-Sea. The spa, with its healing waters, helps the whole village. Jesslyn family had started it a hundred years ago, a man in the family always a physician. Until her dad passed a year ago, and she continues as hostess. But life is changing and a new future looms ahead.
Larkin Denby has returned to the small village he hasn’t been in for eight years. As a Running Officer, his superior has sent him here to find the Lord of the Smugglers. It’s bad enough they smuggle items in from their enemy…France…and don’t pay the taxes, but England’s secrets are being passed along as well. And he must keep his true reason for being there a secret.
Jessyln had fallen for Larkin as a young woman. She won’t make that mistake again. Where she’s content in her small village…he’s an adventurer. I’m so excited for the next book in this series already…and the next…et cetera. Great characters and story.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/2012/10/regina-scott-book-list.html
‘Have a care, Miss Chance. Dark forces are afoot.’
I do enjoy a good Regency and Regina Scott does them well indeed. She kicks off a new series with this one, set in a small village called Grace-By-The-Sea in Dorset, England. We meet the wonderful inhabitants of said village and I’m quite fond of them, including our heroine, Jessalyn Chance, and our hero, Larkin Denby. Lark is in the village hoping to find smugglers plying their dastardly trade, and Jess is equally adamant that there are no smugglers in her beloved village. But, whichever is most right, there are nefarious goings on in this little village and both are determined to end it all.
I enjoyed this book very much and can recommend it highly. I look forward now to the next in the series.
*My thanks to the author for a preview copy of this book. The opinion stated here is entirely my own.
Lost interest and didn’t finish it.