ABOUT THE BOOK
Spring, 1811… A stranger arrives at Wyverne Hall
Sophie Delavallois is the new companion to the ageing Dowager Marchioness, but she also has another reason for coming to the infamous Wyverne mansion, one that will shake the family to their core.
Lord Drake left his childhood home many years ago, and only returns now to see his beloved grandmother. He takes little interest in the goings on of the house, until the arrival of Mademoiselle Delavallois. There’s something about her that he can’t put his finger on; it’s as if he’s seen her before, but surely, that is not possible…
Sophie is also drawn to Drake, but he is a Wyverne, and she cannot allow herself to fall for him, because her intentions towards the family are resolute – revenge. But inside the walls of Wyverne Hall, she discovers the rumours about the family barely scratch the surface, and she can’t escape the dangerous allure of the Viscount.
Once her plans are set in motion, will he be her saviour or her ruin?
MY REVIEW
Who can resist a Regency romance filled with revenge and a jewel heist? My first Emma Orchard novel won’t be my last.
In a time where reputation is tantamount to success or ruination, Sophie’s strength and steadfast mission to take back what is hers is commendable. She is a resilient woman with a tragic and tumultuous past. Eight years ago, her life crumbled under circumstances that forced her into a world of crime and theft. Her desire for revenge against the despicable Lord Wyverne drives her to infiltrate his household, posing as a companion to the aging Dowager. This clever ploy reveals Sophie’s resourcefulness and determination, making her a relatable and admirable character.
Lord Drake “Rafe” is the son of Lord Wyverne, and he is nothing like his nasty father. His role is to protect his grandmother and siblings from his father’s nefarious dealings and acquaintances. I enjoy Rafe’s character as he reveals layers of complexity and kindness unhesitant in assisting Sophie in her mission of redemption. His journey of self-discovery and loyalty reveals his character’s depth and offers a fresh perspective on the consequences of family conduct.
The attraction between Sophie and Rafe is instant and surprising, considering the FMC is no longer an innocent debutante and the MMC is not your archetypical bad boy. In addition, the home of Lord Wyverne is an astonishing dark atmosphere of debauchery and depravity that holds some erotic undertones.
Rafe’s 100-year-old grandmother, Delphine, is a lovely supporting character who gives sage advice to both protagonists. Though Rafe’s brother Charles appears toward the end of the book, he’s welcome comic relief for all of the seriousness of the book.
The Viscount and the Thief is a must-read if you enjoy strong, compelling characters and a captivating story of redemption and rising above hopeless circumstances.
Thank you to Ms. Orchard for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Emma Orchard was born in Salford. She studied English Literature at the Universities of Edinburgh and York, before working behind the scenes in publishing and television for many years. Her first job was at Mills & Boon, where she met her husband in a classic enemies-to-lovers romance. She now lives in North London.
Follow Emma on Twitter and Instagram.
