Customer Reviews

Revealed (Berkley Sensation)

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I have to hand it to Kate Noble for really turning my opinion around with her latest release Revealed. For the first five chapters I couldn't stand the heroine, Phillippa Benning. Phillippa annoyed me right from the start. She is a widow and the darling of the ton. Her beauty and fortune is unmatched and she can ruin someone with the bat of an eyelash. In other words, I found her to be a stuck up bitch. She grated on my nerves because she came across as a snobbish, spoiled, and a bit mean. Phillippa is so un-heroine like. But then when she is introduced to Marcus Wroth, my opinion changed. Marcus sees Phillippa the same way I first saw her. But ever so slowly as his opinion changes about her, mine did also. By the end of Revealed I really liked Phillippa.

Revealed is a lovely historical romance. Even though this may seem to be yet another spy drama where the spunky heroine tries to help the hero, Kate makes sure to throw all those clichés out the window. Phillippa and Marcus make a great team. What you see is not what you get. They have two sides to their nature. One side is their performance, an act they put on for the benefits of those around them. The other side is what they hide inside; their true face that they eventually show to one another. These are two people who are intelligent and caring but also very sly. Phillippa may think she has Marcus wrapped around her finger, but Marcus knows what Phillippa is up to and handles her quite well.

When we are introduced to Phillippa she is flirting with the Marquis of Broughton who would be perfect as her next husband. If they married, they would be the king and queen of the ton. Phillippa almost has the Marquis in the palm of her hand, but her enemy Lady Jane Cummings also wants the Marquis. Phillippa and Jane have a long standing rivalry that goes back to their school days. Both give each other cutting remarks and want to win the ultimate prize in catching Broughton. Phillippa decides that some alone time with Broughton is needed and plans for him to meet her in the library during a ball. As she and Broughton are about to get to know each other much better, their host, Lord Fieldstone almost comes upon them. The room is full of priceless, ancient artifacts and Phillippa hides in a mummy's sarcophagus so she is not caught with Broughton. If this wasn't bad, she finds herself sharing the space with another man. That is where she makes the acquaintance of Mr. Marcus Wroth.

Marcus helps Phillippa after both Fieldstone and Broughton leave even though she is not at all grateful towards him. Before Phillippa can go back to the party, she must hide again because Fieldstone has returned. She also hears a very interesting conversation between Wroth and Fieldstone. Fieldstone is the director of the War Department and apparently Marcus works for him. Even though the war with the French is over, Marcus believes Laurent, a French agent and an old enemy, is on his way to London. Fieldstone wants Marcus to retire and that means the infamous Blue Raven will retire also.

Because Marcus has some difficulty in attending the most exclusive of Ton events, Phillippa agrees to help him gain access to these parties if she can unveil his identity at her own ball. Marcus is not amused because Phillippa is playing with fire and could get hurt, but Phillippa will not listen to reason and thinks of herself as his partner. As both Phillippa and Marcus go to various Ton events, some unfortunate accidents happen. Marcus will flush out this villain and try to keep Phillippa out of harm's way. But Phillippa has gotten under Marcus's skin and he doesn't want to let her out of his sight.

Revealed is witty and engaging and Kate Noble's storytelling is wonderful. There is also some great suspense, wonderful laughs and nice passionate love scenes. Again, you really have to hand it to Kate with the way she writes Phillippa. As we follow Phillippa's thoughts and actions, she grows on you, especially when she and Marcus begin to interact with one another. As Marcus's opinion about Phillippa changes, mine did also. Phillippa seems to be an empty headed beauty with a life of privilege; but she is very intelligent and cares for those around her. Her ability to remember things and keep a level head in the face of danger is admirable. Too bad she couldn't be a spy, because she would be quite good at the job.

I had no complaints with Marcus. He puts himself in danger even though he may not receive any reward for it. And when he becomes close to Phillippa and they essentially become friends, he has no choice but to fall for her charms. Even though Marcus cares deeply for Phillippa, he won't allow her to walk all over him. These two try to deny their feelings for one another, but when they can no longer push these feelings to the side, they come together in a passionate way.

Lady Jane also caught my interest because she keeps Phillippa on her toes as she tries to steal Broughton away from her. But she is also like Phillippa in the sense she is not whom she seems. Even Broughton has a unique personality and is not just along for the ride. He is there to add some tension between Phillippa and Marcus. I wouldn't mind seeing Broughton get his own story in the future.

Revealed is one historical romance that came as a pleasant surprise. I will definitely keep my eye on future releases from Kate Noble.

Katiebabs

Only twenty-one year old wealthy widow Lady Phillippa Benning benignly rules the Ton. However, she hides from Polite Society her ennui with all the inanity that accompanies galas. Her only rival is the harlot Lady Jane Cummings; her adversary since they were students at Mrs. Humphrey's School for Elegant Ladies. Both are interested in the Marquis of Broughton.

However Phillippa' dropped glove ploy leads to Mr. Marcus Worth instead of the lord. Soon she realizes what Marcus' truth worth is when she concludes he is the notorious Blue Raven spy and fantasy of every female's dreams. Phillippa blackmails him into making her his partner in his effort to capture his adversary the French agent Laurant, who has escaped his efforts for ten years. He rejects her extortionist proposal, but changes his mind when he realizes there is substance beyond Almack inside this courageous young woman. However, the Frenchman has not been so elusively successful by not observing his enemies.

This is a terrific tale of "love and war" that contrasts the overabundance of Regency High Society with the dangerous world of espionage. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Phillippa knows who the Blue Raven is and never slows down as the pair team up to catch the wily Frenchman. During their adventures, the lead couple learn the true manning of a "bargain is a bargain is a bargain".

Harriet Klausner

I bought this book in the romance section of Borders as I was taken with both the story idea, new author, and cover during my quest for something over-the-top romantic + racy. Perfect I thought, a great, lusty romance from a new author who BTW does provide a fresh and fun approach (something needed in the romance arena.)

However, while I did enjoy the book's smart pace and clever descriptions I couldn't help but think that it belonged in the fiction section ... After reading authors like Lisa Kleypas, Judith McNaught and Julie Garwood it seems I'm used to a sexier approach and a lot more intensity from the main characters.

With Marcus and Phillipa there was much left unsaid and undone. Many scenes fraught with tension could have have been pushed a bit I think. More sex! More longing! While I enjoyed most of the scenes I missed some of the connections, for one, her friend Nora who was an absolute bore (couldn't she have a great side-kick!?) and two, I think she could have had more interaction with Byrne, his brother. *And couldn't he end up happy or at least see a "top-notch" doctor which I'm sure Phillipa has connections to?

In any event, I don't blame the story as it was fun to read ... more mystery and suspense and sort of an easy going "who-done-it." I just think they should change the cover and put it over in fiction.

Kate Noble is a real joy to read. This is only her second book (I also liked Compormised) but I can't wait for her next one and the ones after that. I loved her characters. Unlike so many other romances, Phillipa has it all and we still like her and root for her. The best part is the mystery that is interwoven thoughtout the book. There is a lot of wit and sometimes I just laughed out loud like the sarcophagus scene. This is a great read for a rainy weekend.

Phillipa Benning is the belle of every ball and the (nearly) undisputed queen of the Season. As a widow with means, she is able to do nearly anything she wants, including holding assignations with titled men. When one of those rendezvous nets her more than just a kiss, that's when her Season turns even brighter. When Phillipa discovers the identity of the famous spy, the Blue Raven, she knows just what to do with the information. Phillipa agrees to help the Raven with a mission that requires entrée into society and in exchange, she gets to reveal his identity at a ball at the close of the Season. Phillipa's involvement not only gets her closer to the Raven in ways she never imagined, it also brings her closer to danger.

The tone of Revealed is airy and light, as frothy as the top of a wedding cake. Regardless of the events taking place, the author continues to write as though she's describing a party, instead of a spy's daring do. This might go over well with some, but it mostly just distracted me from the story. The Blue Raven is a wonderful character, but Phillipa is a lot to take, as she is seemingly spoiled and flighty. Watching them find their true colors would have been great had I not disliked the writing style. I am sure it would work for others; it just didn't work for me.

Niki Lee
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

It took me awhile to get into this book because I found the heroine so annoying. But I'm glad that I stuck with it. It turned out that beneath the snobbish fashion plate that we initially meet lies an intelligent and sensitive woman. I bought this book because I had just read "Compromised" by the same author. That book was more entertaining, but I will definitely seek out new works by Kate Noble. She is an excellent writer.

Mrs. Phillippa Benning is accustomed to getting what she wants. She's adored by the ton; her beauty and smile are potent enough for them to overlook her forwardness, self-centered nature and her rather cruel critiques of those around her. When Phillippa accidentally overhears a conversation she shouldn't and learns the identity of the Blue Raven, England's beloved secret agent, she immediately sees the social benefits of being the one to reveal his identity at her annual ball.

Marcus Worth knows there's something fishy going on in London's elite social circles, but without proof he's being treated like he's obsessed or mad or both. After all, the enemy he suspects is at the heart of these recent crimes was shot dead in France. But he has trouble gaining entrance to the places he needs to go to investigate, so Marcus reluctantly strikes a bargain with Philippa: he'll let her reveal the identity of the Blue Raven in exchange for her help in getting him invited to some very exclusive events.

As they spend more time with each other and Phillippa proves herself to be a very intelligent and helpful companion, they develop a friendship that turns into smoldering passion.

Revealed by Kate Noble is a cleverly written tale of espionage, danger, adventure and a heartwarming passion that develops from friendship and mutual respect. I especially enjoyed Phillippa's transformation from a catty and shallow bit of society fluff, to a caring and intelligent woman. I suspect the goodness in her was always there just waiting for the right person to help her discover it, and I like how the author brought it out.

Readers who like historical romantic suspense stories with a strong heroine and a caring hero who finally gets what he so richly deserves will really love this book.

The suspense aspect of Revealed was exceptionally well done, as it kept me guessing until the very end. A great cast of characters and a well-formed plot make this an excellent read, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series featuring Phillippa's rival, Lady Jane Cummings.

5 Kisses, 1 Pepper

~Lindy
Reviewer, TwoLips Reviews, LLC
[...]

Phillipa is the leader of the ton and she knows it. If she comes to your party, it will be deemed a success, if she wears a new style, everyone will place their order the next day. She is 21 and recently widowed, which gives her a bit more freedom in the eyes of the strict ton. She is set for life, however how fun is that to not have another season to catch the eye of an eligible suitor. The eye she really wants to catch is the dashing Marquis of Broughton. Yes, he is very handsome and intriguing, but the real reason she wants him is because her arch rival in the ton is Jane Cummings. They have been feuding and competing over men and attention since they were young and Phillipa refuses to let her win this one.

Things become complicated when one evening Phillipa plans to meet Broughton in a dark secluded library at midnight. After a brief tryst in which she finds herself a little over her head with Broughton's advances, someone starts to come in the door. Phillipa gets unceremoniously thrown into an ancient sarcophagus to be hidden and when the lid closes she finds she is not the only one in there! After Broughton leaves, she tumbles out of the sarcophagus along with Lord Marcus Worth, a third son, not bad ton she thinks, but not good ton either. Just as she is trying to figure out why he was hiding, someone else comes to the door and this time it is Marcus' turn to dump her back into hiding. While she is hidden she over hears a conversation between Marcus and another gentleman, a quite interesting conversation. One that holds a very a big secret about a very famous English spy.

Phillipa is convinced Marcus is the Blue Raven, a legendary English spy supposedly in retirement. She finds herself at a dinner party hosted by Marcus' brother so Phillipa decides to do a little investigating of her own...she thinks -

"...there must be something from his youth that would indicate a future interest in subterfuge. Perhaps a book on spying techniques, or a diary with an entry entitled, "Dear Diary, I have recently taken a surprising interest in subterfuge..." Although that might be too much to hope for."

Marcus Worth comes into possession of a scrap of paper he believes to be from a great enemy from the past, a paper that lists several of the season's top balls and parties. He fears his enemy plans great harm to come at each of these events, yet he is not high enough in social status to get invited to these events.

Phillipa wants to reveal Marcus' big secret at her ball to make it the talk of the town. Now she has leverage. Marcus needs her help to get invites to all the necessary parties to track down his enemy and Phillipa wants his secret revealed.

This book presents a truly great mystery, one that will have you guessing til the end. There is also a twist that had me slamming down the book and professing my love of the book to my husband - which earned me a funny look and then the moment passed.

The mystery is great, however this book has one of the sweetest romances I have ever read. Phillipa at the beginning is a snob and honestly I was initially put off by her. She is portrayed as using her friends for her own advances and ignoring those beneath her. I remember rolling my eyes the first couple of pages thinking this was one heroine I was not going to like. So glad I read past the first few chapters. I must say though, she always has an edge to her. She is not simple and sweet and quite honestly I do not think she is fully redeemed for her bad doings by the end of the book. In a way, it is refreshing to read a heroine like this but her behavior at times irked me. Kate Noble writes her in a way that you root for her, but you still raise an eyebrow at some of her actions.

She meets Marcus Worth and is immediately intrigued by him. He is a beta hero - he is extremely intelligent, protective, and deadly if necessary, but there is no arrogance. He is a gentleman, and a gentle man. He is never the focus of the party, but there is an allure about him that Phillipa can not resist. At first it is his mysterious background that has her interested, but once she starts to know him, she finds he is on her mind much more than Broughton.

There is not a lot of sex in this book but a strong undercurrent of desire that floats on throughout the story. The moments they do embrace are such sweet, tender moments you don't want them to go to bed together right away. (Wait! What am I saying! ;) Although Philippa is considered the best of the best in the ton, she never uses that against Marcus, she reveals herself to him as who she is, never taking on airs. He is not necessarily inexperienced but his romantic background is not really revealed, which is a great part of the enticement of his character.

He comes to realize she has brains and wits and not only can ally him with his spying, but his heart has fallen for her. She comes to realize this spy business is not a game, there are severe consequences for failing. She soon finds herself more worried about him, then what the ton thinks and she forgets all about her competition with Lady Jane Cummings.

One of my favorite parts of the book is Kate Noble's use of the phrase, "It's just me." Those three simple words are used so cleverly throughout this book, by the end you will never hear the words the same again.

"It's just me" he says when he startles her in a dark room in one of the first times they meet.

"It's just me" she says as she reaches up to fix his hair.

And my favorite when Philippa is nervous about advancing their relationship:

"Sweetheart," he whispered, his hand stilling hers, holding it against his heart. She could feel the rapid, steady beats, the life flowing though him. "Look at me."

She met his eyes and saw there only tenderness. "It's just me."

Oh Marcus. I just adore him. There are a dozen instances the phrase is used and each one brought a smile to my face. Every time those three words are mentioned, they let the other in just a bit more, and by the end they find their way into each others hearts.

This is a book not to be missed.

This period piece is more than a historical romance. There is a mystery thread going thru the story that keeps the interest up. The war between England and France, the cattiness of the tonne, the descriptions of the daily lives and the mysterious hero combine to provide a good read. This author has other novels and some build on the one before so you might want to start and read in sequential order from the beginning. This is a light read that ensures you don't always know what will happen next.

The publisher's blurbs on both the front and the back of this book "quotes" Amanda Quick describing Revealed as "smart and sparkling" and a "delightfully effervescent romance." I know this is advertising, but come on, the book is so deadly serious, the heroine so immature, shallow, and vain, and the hero so lacking in personality that no sparkle can be detected anywhere.

That sounds harsh, but I hate being led astray. Noble actually writes pretty well, and the plot here is relatively complex (presumably it's the first of a series), but the characters lack wit or individuality, relationships remain unexplained (why do Philippa and Lady Jane hate each other?), and there's very little tension. All in all it's a competent but pedestrian regency romance.