'Once a Spy' in the series 'Rogues Redeemed' by Mary Jo Putney follows the story of Colonel Simon Duval and widow Suzanne Duval as they navigate a marriage of convenience to aid in preventing further French-English conflicts. Both characters have faced challenges in their past but show resilience in moving forward together. The plot focuses on their evolving relationship amidst political turmoil and historical events like the Battle of Waterloo, providing a blend of romance, intrigue, and historical accuracy which keeps readers engaged throughout the story.

Characters:

The characters are depicted as complex and resilient, with a strong female lead who overcomes trauma and a male lead navigating his own challenges.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by rich historical detail, emotional depth, and engaging prose that draws readers into the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot emphasizes the challenges of relationships amid political turmoil and personal growth, set against a backdrop of historical warfare.

Setting:

The setting is the Regency era, especially around the Napoleonic Wars, blending actual historical events with the characters' fictional journeys.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast and action-driven, with gradual character development, though some aspects feel rushed.

Notes:

The main characters, Suzanne and Simon, share a complex history involving personal trauma and resilience.

Suzanne was previously held captive in a harem before finding freedom.

Colonel Simon Duval is a British intelligence officer with a mixed heritage of English and French.

The story is set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars and includes historical events like the Battle of Waterloo.

Both characters initially believe a friendship marriage would be their only option, but discover deeper feelings as the story unfolds.

The narrative includes adventure, political turmoil, and explores themes of love and healing.

Putney's writing balances romance with significant historical detail, providing a rich reading experience.

The book is part of a series called Rogues Redeemed, with interconnected storylines and characters.

Readers appreciate the emotional maturity and realistic dialogue between the characters.

The story highlights the importance of trust and overcoming past traumas in relationships.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of past trauma from captivity and sexual abuse.

Has Romance?

There is a strong romance in this book, characterized by emotional depth.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Love and survival in the shadow of Waterloo . . .

Wearied by his years as a British intelligence officer, Simon Duval resigns his commission after Napoleon's abdication. Hoping to find new meaning in his life, he returns to England, where he discovers his cousin's widow, Suzanne Duval, the Comtesse de Chambron. Working as a seamstress, living in reduced circumstances, Suzanne has had a life as complicated as Simon's. While both believe they are beyond love, their sympathetic bond leads him to propose a marriage of companionship, and Suzanne accepts.

She didn't want or expect a true marriage, but as Suzanne joins Simon in a search for his long missing foster brother, warmth and caring begin to heal both their scars-and a powerful passion sparks between them. Then news from France threatens to disrupt their happiness. Napoleon has escaped from Elba and Wellington personally asks Simon to help prevent another devastating war. Only this time, Simon does not go into danger alone. He and Suzanne will face deadly peril together, and pray that love will carry them through . . .

Praise for the Rogues Redeemed series

"Deftly balances fascinating historical detail, adventure, and menace with a passionate romance."

-Library Journal

"Though suspense and adventure drive this story forward, the love at its center sets it apart."

- Kirkus Reviews

"Impeccably written."

- Booklist

What can you read after
Once a Spy?

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Once a Spy

Mary Jo Putney

Book 4 in the series:Rogues Redeemed