Book Review: Revealing the Truth by Lorri Dudley

REVEALING THE TRUTH by Lorri Dudley
SERIES: Agents of Espionage #1
GENRE: Inspirational Historical Romance/Intrigue
PUBLISHER: Wild Heart Books
RELEASE DATE: May 30, 2023
PAGES: 392

His suspect holds a secret, but can he uncover the truth before she steals his heart?

When Katherine Jenkins is rescued from the side of the road, half-frozen and left for dead, her only option is to stay silent about her identity or risk being shipped back to her ruthless guardian, who will kill to get his hands on her inheritance and the famous Jenkins Lipizzaner horses. But even under the pretense of amnesia, she cannot shake the memory of her sister and Katherine’s need to reach her before their guardian, or his marauding bandits, finish her off. Will she be safe in the earl’s manor, or will the assailant climbing through her window be the death of her?

British spy, Stephen Hartington’s assignment to uncover an underground horse-thieving ring brings him home to his family’s manor, and the last thing he expected was to be struck with a candlestick upon climbing through the guest chamber window. The manor’s feisty and intriguing new house guest throws Stephen’s best-laid plans into turmoil and raises questions about the timing of her appearance, the convenience of her memory loss, and her impeccable riding skills. Could he be housing the horse thief he’d been ordered to capture—or worse, falling in love with her?

Other Books In This Series

It’s no secret to anyone who follows my reviews that I love Lorri Dudley’s Leeward Islands series of swoony (with a capital S) romances set in the Caribbean during the Regency era. I was sad to say goodbye to that world, but I was giddy to hear about a new series. And I’m happy to report that Revealing the Truth is full of all the things I already love about Dudley’s books plus even more suspense and intrigue. In short: my initial giddiness was not misplaced.

I immediately liked Katherine Jenkins – her quiet strength, her courage, and her resourcefulness – and was immediately anxious for her in light of her guardian’s imminent, dastardly plans. This roller coaster of emotions continues through her harrowing escape and serendipitous rescue… and then oh be still my heart the swooning starts in earnest from the moment Stephen and Katherine meet. Their chemistry is instantly off the charts, and I hardly dared to breathe whenever they shared a scene. With Katherine still in hiding (not knowing who she can trust) and Stephen on a secret mission for the Crown, the complications resulting from their tangible – and mutual – attraction make the sparks between them even more delicious, in my opinion. And sparks there are a’plenty!

I didn’t just love the two protagonists and their swoonilicious romance (though that WAS pretty delightful). I also very much enjoyed the supporting cast, particularly Stephen’s parents and his sister Abby, and the roles they played in this story. Their steady presence for Katherine at a time when her life is in such turmoil is so heartwarming, and the wisdom they speak into her life (especially Stephen’s mother) allows the author to weave a beautiful faith message in a way that’s organic to the story. As a side note, I’m so glad that Abby’s story is next because I had some suspicions during Revealing the Truth and I can’t wait to find out if I am right. Considering how I didn’t see a certain twist coming in this book, though, it’s highly plausible that I’m going to be just as taken-by-surprise in book two.

Bottom Line: Revealing the Truth by Lorri Dudley includes everything I’ve come to expect from this author – relatable & layered characters, immersive settings, an entertaining plot, breath-stealing romantic chemistry, delightful banter, and a sweet message of faith that isn’t preachy or forced. The extra dash of suspense and intrigue is icing on the cake for readers, and it’s the perfect kick-off to a brand new series. So excited to spend more time with these characters in future books!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

My Rating: 4.5 stars / loved it!

KissingBook Level: 4 / keep that fan & fainting couch handy!

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Lorri Dudley has been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household. Visit her at lorridudley.com

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