Meet New Books
Book Cover

The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes

Book 2 in the series:London Highwaymen

Save:
Find on Amazon

'The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes' in the series 'The Queer Principles of Kit Webb' by Cat Sebastian follows the captivating tale of Marian, a straight-laced and scarred heroine, and Rob, a chaos bisexual with a heart of gold. The story delves into their unconventional romance that blossoms from blackmail to genuine connection through letters, leading to a real and tender relationship. With poignant social commentary, crackling wit, and a touch of scheming and thievery, the book offers a refreshing and immersive historical fiction escape.

The author skillfully weaves together themes of trauma, consent, and love, creating a charming and witty narrative that explores the complexities of relationships and personal growth. The dialogue between Marian and Rob is filled with banter, humor, and deep discussions, adding depth to their characters and enhancing the reader's connection to their story.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Marian being a dominant and complex figure, while Rob contrasts her with his sunny disposition, together navigating their personal issues.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is a blend of humor and beauty, using engaging language and maintaining a natural flow throughout.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot explores familiar elements through different perspectives while introducing romance and conflict between a blackmailer and a duchess.

Setting:

The setting immerses the reader in 1750s England, complete with rich historical details and themes relevant to the time.

Pacing:

The pacing is effective, keeping the reader engaged through steady character and plot development.
As soon as the man passed out—very anticlimactically, Marian was disappointed to note, just like falling asleep—Marian pulled the silk cord from her pocket and set to work binding his wrists. Things w...

Notes:

The book features a unique non-PIV sexual relationship.
The heroine has traumatic associations with penetrative sex.
The hero respects the heroine's boundaries regarding sex.
Both main characters are bisexual, representing diverse sexuality.
The story includes witty letter exchanges between the hero and heroine.
The hero is supportive and devoted, embodying a 'sunshine' personality.
The setting is 1750s England, rich with historical detail.
The romance develops through humor and banter, avoiding clichés.
There are themes of trauma, consent, and emotional complexities.
The heroine is a former duchess involved in a crime caper.
The book is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone.
The relationship subverts traditional gender roles, with the heroine often taking a dominant role.
The story includes a mix of humor and serious themes, balancing lightheartedness with depth.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for the book include trauma surrounding childbirth, mental health issues, and implied sexual violence.

Has Romance?

The romance is a significant focus of the book, showcasing the developing relationship between the two protagonists.

From The Publisher:

Cat Sebastian returns to Georgian London with a stunning tale of a reluctant criminal and the thief who cannot help but love her.

Marian Hayes, the Duchess of Clare, just shot her husband. Of course, the evil, murderous man deserved what was coming to him, but now she must flee to the countryside. Unfortunately, the only person she can ask for help is the charismatic criminal who is blackmailing her-and who she may have left tied up a few hours before…

A highwayman, con artist, and all-around cheerful villain, Rob Brooks is no stranger to the wrong side of the law or the right side of anybody's bed. He never meant to fall for the woman whose secrets he promised to keep for the low price of five hundred pounds, but how could he resist someone who led him on a merry chase all over London, left him tied up in a seedy inn, and then arrived covered in her husband's blood and in desperate need of his help?

As they flee across the country-stopping to pick pockets, drink to excess, and rescue invalid cats-they discover more true joy and peace than either has felt in ages. But when the truth of Rob's past catches up to him, they must decide if they are willing to reshape their lives in order to forge a future together.

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (2)

Reader Stats (11):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (3)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (4)
 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.