Friday, August 25, 2017

Blog Tour/Review: The Secret of the India Orchid by Nancy Campbell Allen



The Secret of the India Orchid, by Nancy Campbell Allen
2017, 320p, Clean Regency Romance
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received an ARC from the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way



Anthony Blake is in love with his best friend's sister, Sophia Elliot. But his plans to court her are put on hold when he is forced to resume his role as an undercover spy for the Crown. A secret document listing the names of the entire network of British spies-including his own-has been stolen. To protect Sophia, Anthony cuts off all ties to her and exchanges his life as an honorable earl for the façade of a flirtatious playboy.

Heartbroken and confused, Sophia travels to India, hoping to find healing in one of the most exotic regions of the British Empire. But the exotic land isn't as restful as she had hoped. Instead, she finds herself embroiled in a mystery of a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and a plot that could involve the prince of India. And when Anthony appears at the British Residency, asking questions and keeping his distance from her, she is stunned.

She still loves him, and, in her heart, she knows he loves her too. But how can she rebuild her relationship with him if he won't confide in her? Does she dare offer her heart to him a second time, or will their love be lost under the India sun?


I love the Proper Romance line so was excited to read this one! It's a regency that takes place in India, which is different. Anthony loves Sophia but before he can make a formal offer to court her, he is forced to leave since he is also an undercover spy. Two years later, they meet in India when she travels there to heal her broken heart. He still can't reveal the truth of why he left her in the first place so there are some frustrating exchanges between them.

I love how this story unfolded! Anthony works to solve a mystery with plenty of suspects so it was hard to figure out who the villain was. Sophia was looking to heal her broken heart and move on in life but seeing Anthony again caused her to reevaluate what she wanted. They had to decide if they could trust each other.

I've only read (and loved) Nancy Campbell Allen's books that are in the Proper Romance line and thought this book delivered as well! It's well-written and kept me engaged from the first page. I became invested in the characters and what was happening to them. I liked the balance of mystery and romance. I especially love that it's clean so I can easily recommend it to anyone!


Nancy Campbell Allen is the author of thirteen published novels, which span genres from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. In 2005, her work won the Utah Best of State award. She has presented at numerous writing conferences and events since her first book was released in 1999. Nancy received a BS in Elementary Education from Weber State University. She loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time laughing with family and friends. She is married and the mother of three children.

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