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Review: A Thieving at Carlton House - Of Cloaks and Daggers #1

A Thieving at Carlton House book cover on blue background

It's no secret that espionage is one of my favourite themes and why I'm such a fan of Erica Vetsch. The Of Cloaks and Daggers series promises just as much mystery and sleuthing as previous series from the author, with A Thieving at Carlton House kicking us off with stolen jewels belonging to the Prince Regent.

Many thanks to Kregel Publications for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

The Home Office has asked Sir Bertrand Thorndike to head an investigation into stolen royal jewels. And as with everything concerning the Prince Regent, discretion is paramount.

It's the perfect chance for Bertie to step out of his brother's long shadow. Unfortunately, his superior, the Duke of Haverly, has a plan that makes him balk. In order to sell his cover, Bertie must play the part of a man looking for love, ready to reform his rakish ways.

Philippa Cashel escaped a life as one of society's best-known courtesans and now devotes her time to helping other women in dire straits. Her hope is that laboring hard enough at her charity work will allow her to feel worthy of God's forgiveness of her past. So when Sir Bertrand Thorndike approaches her about becoming an agent of the Crown, she is skeptical. Why her? She's focused on getting her school for underprivileged women up and running, not on cloak-and-dagger skullduggery.

But when two of Philippa's rescued girls become targets, Philippa risks partnering with Bertie to find the loot and stop a killer.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

What a world that Erica Vetsch has created for Sir Bertrand Thorndike and Philippa Cashel! If you've read any of the author's previous titles, you'll be acquainted with many familiar names. Stepping back into the realm of espionage and war rooms, stolen jewels quickly escalates into so much more. I enjoyed getting to meet Miss Cashel as she assists women who want to live reformed lives and to see how her past has shaped her ability to care for the downtrodden. At the same time, seeing the veil lifted on Sir Thorndike and hearing from his perspective creates a fascinating contrast between the two characters who are more alike than they realize.

While mysterious schemes are afoot, I love that this book is about more than a complex case. Delving into the topic of forgiveness, this book presents the difficulty of fully turning lifelong betrayal and pain over to God in a way that is relatable and understanding to others who have experienced the same hurt. The author conveys just how hard forgiveness can be in walking readers through this challenging journey while gently nudging them with truths from the Bible. As my mind was engaged in the whodunit part of the book, my heart was becoming softened to how God can help us to release others and their sin unto Him. If you're looking for a story of two people seeking to honour God through their giftings and skills, A Thieving at Carlton House will steal your attention.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍
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