Walker, Regan

With plenty of adventure and great storytelling, this third book of the "Agents of the Crown" series (after Against the Wind; Racing with the Wind) hits the mark for a quick thrill on the high seas, though perhaps tenuously held together in a slightly too convenient plot. Easily read as a stand-alone, the novel easily evokes the era; the extensive author's note is appreciated.

It's a timeless plot: bad boy meets good girl who compels him to look at the superficiality of his life and embrace love. The author knows the period, the blackmail backstory adds interest, and the secondary characters are fleshed out in their own books (The Holly and the Thistle). During the busy holiday season, Regency readers will enjoy this short and sweetly sexy sugar cookie of a title.

This is not a traditional Regency romance, despite the time period. The romantic elements hinge on Martin and Kit keeping secrets from each other and falling in love anyway, in spite of the surprisingly sexual start to their relationship. It's the history that makes this story stand out. Recommended for lovers of historical romance, especially those who like their history with some depth to it. Fans of Lauren Willig's "Pink Carnation" books also might enjoy the spy angle.