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Legendary Rogues #3
Lord of Fortune
Dashing adventurer Penn Bowen is dedicated to preserving Britain’s history and his carefree, bachelor lifestyle. He’s happiest when he’s in pursuit of knowledge and the occasional liaison with the right woman. So he’s more than a little perturbed when the wrong woman inserts herself into his latest quest—proving that a valuable artifact in Oxford’s museum is a fake. Amelia Gardiner is smart and capable...and determined to prove that Penn is wrong about the treasure her grandfather found.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead. But passion ignites between them and suddenly their alliance is more than a simple convenience. When peril strikes too close, they’ll risk everything they hold dear: family, honor, and a chance for the greatest treasure of all—love.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead. But passion ignites between them and suddenly their alliance is more than a simple convenience. When peril strikes too close, they’ll risk everything they hold dear: family, honor, and a chance for the greatest treasure of all—love.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2018
About the author
Darcy Burke
112 books2,137 followersDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
April 24, 2018
Lord of Fortune is third in a treasure hunter series by Darcy Burke. I've not read the other two books in the series so my opinion is on this book as a standalone.
I'll be honest, I like adventure books, but I am pretty picky when it comes to a treasure hunt story arc with an extensive backstory. The set-up for treasure hunting books, especially those in a series often results in a labored beginning even if the end is exciting. Unfortunately, that is what happened here. The first 60% of this book was so boring to me. I had trouble connecting to both of the characters initially and all of the details on Penn's family history, Amelia's family history, and the complicated stories of fake treasure, real treasure, a secret order, a violent faction of a secret order, and an enormous cast of characters made it hard for me to wade through it. I almost gave up at 41%, but since I'd finally started to understand all the details at this point, I stuck with it and ended up moderately liking the end, despite having many loose ends linger (which I assume will be wrapped up in the fourth and final book of this series).
Penn and Amelia ended up being cute together at the end, but I found their initial meeting put me off quite a bit and made it hard for me to believe the two could trust each other so quickly. I felt like they communicated well about the treasure, but for the first 60%, I didn't really feel much chemistry until suddenly, the chemistry did make an appearance and the two became intimate. And here is where I had two issues:
Characters from the first two books make an appearance in this story and I didn't have trouble keeping up with their backstories. I found Penn's brother-in-law to be the most interesting of the characters from the first two books in the series and perhaps I'll read his book (since I already own it anyway). I have doubts about whether I'll go back to read about the parents since I had trouble getting into their book the first time I tried it and they didn't intrigue me in this story either. The most interesting character from this tale is definitely the enigmatic, morally ambiguous Gideon whose storyline was left wide open for the fourth and final book in the series. Now that I'm up to speed on the treasure stuff, I may one day read about him if the blurb sounds good but it won't be a priority.
On the whole, I did not really enjoy this book and found it didn't flow that well for a reader who was unfamiliar with the series though Burke did drop in a lot of details to help. I think it is definitely for people that are either huge fans of treasure hunter books or those who have loved the other treasure books of this series. As someone who already doesn't really like most treasure books and read this one because I like Burke's work on the Untouchables series, I was disappointed. Most of the conversations were on the treasure and less on the two characters getting to know each other. There was more telling rather than showing in this book, simply because there was so much foundation that needed to be built. As I said, I almost didn't finish it. Finally, there were some loose threads that were left open...and I don't really like cliff hangers either. In particular, there was a huge question over Penn's future which I resented not having answers to and I'll have to wait until the final book to find out the resolution.
In a nutshell, I only recommend this for mystery/detail/treasure fans or fans of this series. If you're new to Burke, check out her Untouchables series first--it is definitely easier to get into.
I received a copy from the author to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'll be honest, I like adventure books, but I am pretty picky when it comes to a treasure hunt story arc with an extensive backstory. The set-up for treasure hunting books, especially those in a series often results in a labored beginning even if the end is exciting. Unfortunately, that is what happened here. The first 60% of this book was so boring to me. I had trouble connecting to both of the characters initially and all of the details on Penn's family history, Amelia's family history, and the complicated stories of fake treasure, real treasure, a secret order, a violent faction of a secret order, and an enormous cast of characters made it hard for me to wade through it. I almost gave up at 41%, but since I'd finally started to understand all the details at this point, I stuck with it and ended up moderately liking the end, despite having many loose ends linger (which I assume will be wrapped up in the fourth and final book of this series).
Penn and Amelia ended up being cute together at the end, but I found their initial meeting put me off quite a bit and made it hard for me to believe the two could trust each other so quickly. I felt like they communicated well about the treasure, but for the first 60%, I didn't really feel much chemistry until suddenly, the chemistry did make an appearance and the two became intimate. And here is where I had two issues:
Characters from the first two books make an appearance in this story and I didn't have trouble keeping up with their backstories. I found Penn's brother-in-law to be the most interesting of the characters from the first two books in the series and perhaps I'll read his book (since I already own it anyway). I have doubts about whether I'll go back to read about the parents since I had trouble getting into their book the first time I tried it and they didn't intrigue me in this story either. The most interesting character from this tale is definitely the enigmatic, morally ambiguous Gideon whose storyline was left wide open for the fourth and final book in the series. Now that I'm up to speed on the treasure stuff, I may one day read about him if the blurb sounds good but it won't be a priority.
On the whole, I did not really enjoy this book and found it didn't flow that well for a reader who was unfamiliar with the series though Burke did drop in a lot of details to help. I think it is definitely for people that are either huge fans of treasure hunter books or those who have loved the other treasure books of this series. As someone who already doesn't really like most treasure books and read this one because I like Burke's work on the Untouchables series, I was disappointed. Most of the conversations were on the treasure and less on the two characters getting to know each other. There was more telling rather than showing in this book, simply because there was so much foundation that needed to be built. As I said, I almost didn't finish it. Finally, there were some loose threads that were left open...and I don't really like cliff hangers either. In particular, there was a huge question over Penn's future which I resented not having answers to and I'll have to wait until the final book to find out the resolution.
In a nutshell, I only recommend this for mystery/detail/treasure fans or fans of this series. If you're new to Burke, check out her Untouchables series first--it is definitely easier to get into.
I received a copy from the author to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 17, 2018
Series: Legendary Rogues #3
Publication Date: 4/24/18
I don’t think I know enough superlatives to describe this book! It is wonderfully, magically delicious. It sucked me in from the very first sentence and didn’t turn me loose – not even at the end because now I am so anxiously awaiting Gideon’s book. I’d like to thank the author for taking a three-year break in the series. No, I’m serious. I don’t know why she did it, but I’m glad she did – otherwise, I might not have found this outstanding series. It would have driven me insane if I had already read the first two books and had to wait this long for the next book in the series – but since I didn’t read those, I wouldn’t have found the series without the new release. I was only two chapters into the book before I knew I had to get the first two books and read them as well.
This wonderfully written, excellently plotted book is filled with fully developed and completely relatable characters. It is Indiana Jones meets Romancing the Stone. It is filled with excitement and you just never know what will happen next. I still want to know what is going to happen next – who is going to be the earl? Will Gideon use the stone to make someone fall in love with him? Will he collect all thirteen of the treasures? There is just so much still to learn! That next book is going to have to be a doozie as well if it is going to manage to wrap up all the loose ends!
Penn Bowen is an adventurer, a scholar, an antiquarian and maybe an earl. Well, scratch that last part because he certainly doesn’t want to be an earl. He absolutely loves his life of freedom and adventure. His life couldn’t be more perfect – he loves his parents, he loves his sister, he loves his job as assistant to Carlton Burgess who is the keeper of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford – he just loves every part of his life. There is an item in the museum that Penn is sure is a fake and he fully intends to find the real one. The Heart of Llanllwch was found several years ago by Jonathan Gardiner and donated to the museum. Did Mr. Gardiner know it was a fake and wished to perpetrate a hoax or did he genuinely believe the Heart was authentic? He was a renowned scholar, translator, and antiquarian, so why would he wish to perpetrate a hoax on the museum. There is a dagger hidden somewhere and that dagger should have a clue to finding the Heart. Penn is determined to find that dagger and to then find the authentic Heart – wherever it is hidden!
Mrs. Amelia Gardiner Forrester is the granddaughter of Jonathon Gardiner. She adored her grandfather and she wants to do anything she can to fulfill one of the last promises she made to him. Find the dagger and keep it safe. He was incoherent at that point and she couldn’t get all of the details from him, but she had enough to point her in the right direction. Imagine her dismay when she arrives at a cave to search for the dagger only to find two men already there – and they have just retrieved the dagger. Well – what would any well-bred, demure lady of good breeding do in such a situation? She pulled a pistol on them and took the dagger back! Only to have a group of brigands take it from all of them. Now what?
That sets off a chase to all parts of England with Mrs. Forrester and Mr. Bowen having to work together to find the dagger and maybe even the real Heart. They are in London and Oxford and they spend time at the home of Penn’s parents – all researching.
Then – there is an exciting end – which I won’t tell you about – but be prepared to hold your breath and cross your fingers!
Penn’s dad is named Rhys Bowen – I just wondered if Ms. Burke was giving a nod to mystery author Rhys Bowen. Just something that caught my attention
Great read! I loved it!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 4/24/18
I don’t think I know enough superlatives to describe this book! It is wonderfully, magically delicious. It sucked me in from the very first sentence and didn’t turn me loose – not even at the end because now I am so anxiously awaiting Gideon’s book. I’d like to thank the author for taking a three-year break in the series. No, I’m serious. I don’t know why she did it, but I’m glad she did – otherwise, I might not have found this outstanding series. It would have driven me insane if I had already read the first two books and had to wait this long for the next book in the series – but since I didn’t read those, I wouldn’t have found the series without the new release. I was only two chapters into the book before I knew I had to get the first two books and read them as well.
This wonderfully written, excellently plotted book is filled with fully developed and completely relatable characters. It is Indiana Jones meets Romancing the Stone. It is filled with excitement and you just never know what will happen next. I still want to know what is going to happen next – who is going to be the earl? Will Gideon use the stone to make someone fall in love with him? Will he collect all thirteen of the treasures? There is just so much still to learn! That next book is going to have to be a doozie as well if it is going to manage to wrap up all the loose ends!
Penn Bowen is an adventurer, a scholar, an antiquarian and maybe an earl. Well, scratch that last part because he certainly doesn’t want to be an earl. He absolutely loves his life of freedom and adventure. His life couldn’t be more perfect – he loves his parents, he loves his sister, he loves his job as assistant to Carlton Burgess who is the keeper of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford – he just loves every part of his life. There is an item in the museum that Penn is sure is a fake and he fully intends to find the real one. The Heart of Llanllwch was found several years ago by Jonathan Gardiner and donated to the museum. Did Mr. Gardiner know it was a fake and wished to perpetrate a hoax or did he genuinely believe the Heart was authentic? He was a renowned scholar, translator, and antiquarian, so why would he wish to perpetrate a hoax on the museum. There is a dagger hidden somewhere and that dagger should have a clue to finding the Heart. Penn is determined to find that dagger and to then find the authentic Heart – wherever it is hidden!
Mrs. Amelia Gardiner Forrester is the granddaughter of Jonathon Gardiner. She adored her grandfather and she wants to do anything she can to fulfill one of the last promises she made to him. Find the dagger and keep it safe. He was incoherent at that point and she couldn’t get all of the details from him, but she had enough to point her in the right direction. Imagine her dismay when she arrives at a cave to search for the dagger only to find two men already there – and they have just retrieved the dagger. Well – what would any well-bred, demure lady of good breeding do in such a situation? She pulled a pistol on them and took the dagger back! Only to have a group of brigands take it from all of them. Now what?
That sets off a chase to all parts of England with Mrs. Forrester and Mr. Bowen having to work together to find the dagger and maybe even the real Heart. They are in London and Oxford and they spend time at the home of Penn’s parents – all researching.
Then – there is an exciting end – which I won’t tell you about – but be prepared to hold your breath and cross your fingers!
Penn’s dad is named Rhys Bowen – I just wondered if Ms. Burke was giving a nod to mystery author Rhys Bowen. Just something that caught my attention
Great read! I loved it!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
October 17, 2020
'Dashing adventurer Penn Bowen is dedicated to preserving Britain’s history and his carefree, bachelor lifestyle. He’s happiest when he’s in pursuit of knowledge and the occasional liaison with the right woman. So he’s more than a little perturbed when the wrong woman inserts herself into his latest quest—proving that a valuable artifact in Oxford’s museum is a fake. Amelia Gardiner is smart and capable...and determined to prove that Penn is wrong about the treasure her grandfather found.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead. But passion ignites between them and suddenly their alliance is more than a simple convenience. When peril strikes too close, they’ll risk everything they hold dear: family, honor, and a chance for the greatest treasure of all—love.'
________________________________
Lord of Fortune is the third book in Darcy Burke's Legendary Rogues series.
I loved that Penn, as an antiquarian, was not merely an academic but that he also actively sought out pieces, even if the journey was less than comfortable along the way. In fact the book starts with him dangling percariously in an attempt to recover an artifact. This instantly endeared me to him. And the same can be said of Amelia with the no-nonsense way she ambushed them to try to recover it for herself.
I liked the sense of danger and adventure, especially the drama near as they journey to the falls. I also liked finally getting to learn more about Penn, after meeting him as a boy dropped at at Rhys' doorstep in the first book and seeing merely a glimpse of him in the last book, I had been wanting to learn more about his character and his story. I wasn't as invested in Penn and Amelia as I was with Elijah and Cate in the last book, and this was largely due to Amelia holding onto the secret regarding the state of her marriage for longer than I would have liked and her tendency to see his motives as villainous in regard to the Heart and sword, despite his actions to the contrary.
Overall though I really enjoyed the book and found the adventure compelling. I'm really enjoying the Legendary Rogues series and am looking forward to reading the final book in the series and the prequel novella, The Legend of a Rogue. It is not necessary to have read all the books in the series or to even read them in order to enjoy Lord of Fortune, but I do think your enjoyment would be the better for it.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Darcy Burke for sharing an electronic copy of Lord of Fortune with me. This is my honest review.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead. But passion ignites between them and suddenly their alliance is more than a simple convenience. When peril strikes too close, they’ll risk everything they hold dear: family, honor, and a chance for the greatest treasure of all—love.'
________________________________
Lord of Fortune is the third book in Darcy Burke's Legendary Rogues series.
I loved that Penn, as an antiquarian, was not merely an academic but that he also actively sought out pieces, even if the journey was less than comfortable along the way. In fact the book starts with him dangling percariously in an attempt to recover an artifact. This instantly endeared me to him. And the same can be said of Amelia with the no-nonsense way she ambushed them to try to recover it for herself.
I liked the sense of danger and adventure, especially the drama near as they journey to the falls. I also liked finally getting to learn more about Penn, after meeting him as a boy dropped at at Rhys' doorstep in the first book and seeing merely a glimpse of him in the last book, I had been wanting to learn more about his character and his story. I wasn't as invested in Penn and Amelia as I was with Elijah and Cate in the last book, and this was largely due to Amelia holding onto the secret regarding the state of her marriage for longer than I would have liked and her tendency to see his motives as villainous in regard to the Heart and sword, despite his actions to the contrary.
Overall though I really enjoyed the book and found the adventure compelling. I'm really enjoying the Legendary Rogues series and am looking forward to reading the final book in the series and the prequel novella, The Legend of a Rogue. It is not necessary to have read all the books in the series or to even read them in order to enjoy Lord of Fortune, but I do think your enjoyment would be the better for it.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Darcy Burke for sharing an electronic copy of Lord of Fortune with me. This is my honest review.
April 30, 2018
I am a big fan of stories that include treasure hunts and this one is full of it, it was an interesting journey and the ride was easy and I was mostly happy as a whole. The main characters were flawed, but their chemistry was good enough to redeem that. The pace wasn't too fast or too slow for me, though I wish the relationship between the main characters had been a little more developed and that the characters had begun having romantic intentions towards each other sooner. I will happily wait for Gideon's book because the poor guy had the rug pulled from under his feet and he handled things very well. The book is not of my favorites from this author, but it was good. To be fair I had no problem reading the book, but I just didn't love it as much as the other which is the reason I am giving it 3.5 stars.
April 15, 2018
What appears to be complicated is really quite simple. Amelia and Penn need each other. They're just too blind to see it. He has the knowledge. She possesses the heart. Pride brought them together, will the truth lead to a new beginning or a bitter end? Fate holds all the cards in this battle of legacy verses love. Lord of Fortune is the evolution of what storytelling should be. The blending of many genres to create one unforgettable read.
April 26, 2018
Penn Bowen loves his carefree life of hunting antiquities. The intrigue and adventure thrill him. His latest find is just what he needs to prove the authenticity of another piece and to test the spell it’s said to contain. While a woman and a dangerous group prove to be a distraction it’s the upending of everything Penn has believed in that throws him for a loop.
Amelia Gardiner counts the days until she’s free from the worst mistake of her life. As a dying wish from her Grandfather she spends those days hunting for a treasure he’s hidden. That vow to keep the treasure safe is what keeps her going. When an antiquarian and a dangerous group threaten her promise to keep it safe it’s the past mistake that threatens her the most.
I loved how easy-going Penn is even when his future is threatened and despite all Amelia’s been through she continues to have a spine of steel.
Darcy Burke brings old characters and groups and mixes them with current (and future – Gideon, please) without missing a beat. Which confirms why she’s one of my must-read authors.
Amelia Gardiner counts the days until she’s free from the worst mistake of her life. As a dying wish from her Grandfather she spends those days hunting for a treasure he’s hidden. That vow to keep the treasure safe is what keeps her going. When an antiquarian and a dangerous group threaten her promise to keep it safe it’s the past mistake that threatens her the most.
I loved how easy-going Penn is even when his future is threatened and despite all Amelia’s been through she continues to have a spine of steel.
Darcy Burke brings old characters and groups and mixes them with current (and future – Gideon, please) without missing a beat. Which confirms why she’s one of my must-read authors.
April 23, 2018
4.5 stars
I love this series and have been waiting for Penn's story for three long years! I am happy to say, this book was totally worth the wait!
Pennard "Penn" Bowen is the adopted son of Rhys Bowen, a scholar and treasure hunter. The book opens with Penn and his assistant Egg, finding a dagger and being confronted by a masked person with a gun, claiming the dagger is rightfully theirs. Penn easily overpowers the would be thief, only to lose the dagger to another band of villains and left tied up along with Egg and the first thief!
Working together they free themselves and introductions are made, the thief is Mrs. Amelia Forrest, granddaughter of Jonathan Gardiner - the antiquarian who found the Heart of Llanllwch - a stone that is said to be one of the Thirteen Treasures gathered by King Arthur and his knights. The Dagger is said to counteract the effect of the Heart. Amelia is upset that the dagger was lost and wants to go after it - but Penn tells her the dagger is a fake and that he believes the Heart is as well. Amelia is enraged, the Heart was her grandfather's greatest find and his legacy will be ruined if the Heart is fake. She will to work with him to retrieve the Dagger to prove that he is wrong!
This is the start of an amazing adventure and along the way they will encounter danger, secrets, heartache, betrayal and Amelia and Penn will both have to deal with shocking surprises that could change everything they have believed.
The book is a well written, fast paced action/adventure romance that will keep you turning pages as fast as you can. There are heart stopping moments, steamy love scenes, long kept secrets revealed, cameos with Cassie, Andy, Cate, Elijah, Rhys, Margery & Gideon, really nasty villains, a bit of magic, treasure and finally a hard earned HEA.
This is the third book in the series and it can be read as a stand alone title, but I would recommend reading the series in order - they are all fantastic, so no hardship there :) - so you have a better understanding of "The Order" and the history behind the Thirteen Treasures. I highly recommend this book, but I will state that I dropped off 1/2 a star because the book does have adultery - This is a completely personal reason and in no way reflects on the author's writing ability.
I love this series and have been waiting for Penn's story for three long years! I am happy to say, this book was totally worth the wait!
Pennard "Penn" Bowen is the adopted son of Rhys Bowen, a scholar and treasure hunter. The book opens with Penn and his assistant Egg, finding a dagger and being confronted by a masked person with a gun, claiming the dagger is rightfully theirs. Penn easily overpowers the would be thief, only to lose the dagger to another band of villains and left tied up along with Egg and the first thief!
Working together they free themselves and introductions are made, the thief is Mrs. Amelia Forrest, granddaughter of Jonathan Gardiner - the antiquarian who found the Heart of Llanllwch - a stone that is said to be one of the Thirteen Treasures gathered by King Arthur and his knights. The Dagger is said to counteract the effect of the Heart. Amelia is upset that the dagger was lost and wants to go after it - but Penn tells her the dagger is a fake and that he believes the Heart is as well. Amelia is enraged, the Heart was her grandfather's greatest find and his legacy will be ruined if the Heart is fake. She will to work with him to retrieve the Dagger to prove that he is wrong!
This is the start of an amazing adventure and along the way they will encounter danger, secrets, heartache, betrayal and Amelia and Penn will both have to deal with shocking surprises that could change everything they have believed.
The book is a well written, fast paced action/adventure romance that will keep you turning pages as fast as you can. There are heart stopping moments, steamy love scenes, long kept secrets revealed, cameos with Cassie, Andy, Cate, Elijah, Rhys, Margery & Gideon, really nasty villains, a bit of magic, treasure and finally a hard earned HEA.
This is the third book in the series and it can be read as a stand alone title, but I would recommend reading the series in order - they are all fantastic, so no hardship there :) - so you have a better understanding of "The Order" and the history behind the Thirteen Treasures. I highly recommend this book, but I will state that I dropped off 1/2 a star because the book does have adultery - This is a completely personal reason and in no way reflects on the author's writing ability.
May 5, 2018
Lord of Fortune is the first book by Darcy Burke that I have read outside of her Untouchablesseries. I was very interested to see how this series would be different from the other and was also concerned about diving into a new series at book 3. I am happy to say that I enjoyed this book and it was definitely very different from the books I have read from the Untouchables series.
With the Untouchables, I began that series at book 3, so some things come full circle it would seem! In that other series it felt like Burke regurgitated the stories from the first two books in too much depth, which resulted in my limited interest in reading those books because I feel like I know too much about them. I did not find that at all the case in Lord of Fortune. There were just enough references for me to determine who I thought were the hero/heroine of the first two books and just a tiny bit of detail about the vague storyline, but this resulted in me actually WANTING to read the first two books, which should always be the end goal for an author.
There is quite a bit of adventure in this novel, with the romance tied nicely into it, but the adventure is the primary focus for much of it. I liked seeing our hero and heroine enmeshed in something with more than the drama of the ton and they were out there searching for adventure like an Indiana Jones! Climbing through caves, gunshots, bad guys stealing artifacts, and more are all part of the mix. The romance is sizzling too! This felt very much like the Adventurer’s Quartet from Stephanie Laurens. I loved Penn and Amelia and all their subordinate characters. They are at times mysterious and others straight-forward and complex. I loved being able to unwrap them and discover the deeper layers of who they are.
I am glad that I took a jump into this series and look forward to being able to pick up the prior books in this novel and the book that is certainly coming next!
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog and a copy was received for a review tour.
With the Untouchables, I began that series at book 3, so some things come full circle it would seem! In that other series it felt like Burke regurgitated the stories from the first two books in too much depth, which resulted in my limited interest in reading those books because I feel like I know too much about them. I did not find that at all the case in Lord of Fortune. There were just enough references for me to determine who I thought were the hero/heroine of the first two books and just a tiny bit of detail about the vague storyline, but this resulted in me actually WANTING to read the first two books, which should always be the end goal for an author.
There is quite a bit of adventure in this novel, with the romance tied nicely into it, but the adventure is the primary focus for much of it. I liked seeing our hero and heroine enmeshed in something with more than the drama of the ton and they were out there searching for adventure like an Indiana Jones! Climbing through caves, gunshots, bad guys stealing artifacts, and more are all part of the mix. The romance is sizzling too! This felt very much like the Adventurer’s Quartet from Stephanie Laurens. I loved Penn and Amelia and all their subordinate characters. They are at times mysterious and others straight-forward and complex. I loved being able to unwrap them and discover the deeper layers of who they are.
I am glad that I took a jump into this series and look forward to being able to pick up the prior books in this novel and the book that is certainly coming next!
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog and a copy was received for a review tour.
April 18, 2018
Dashing adventurer Penn Bowen is dedicated to preserving Britain’s history, he’s happiest when he’s in pursuit of knowledge and the occasional liaison with the right woman. Amelia Gardiner married Thaddeus Forrest several years ago but after less than one year of marriage he disappeared & left her destitute. She’s smart and capable also determined to prove that Penn is wrong about the treasure, the heart, her grandfather found.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead.
I was hooked from the first page when Penn was dangling from a rope to find an artefact. The pace of the book was so good & left me breathless at times, it was a roller coaster of an adventure that I didn’t want to end. The characters were well fleshed & had plenty of depth, Penn & Amelia were very likeable & their attraction sizzled, also their verbal spats were very entertaining. The secondary characters were also well portrayed. The climax of the book was breath taking. This is the third in the series but could be read by itself but seriously why would you when the series is very very good & I’m so glad the author wrote this after so long a break from the series, I eagerly await Gideon’s story.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead.
I was hooked from the first page when Penn was dangling from a rope to find an artefact. The pace of the book was so good & left me breathless at times, it was a roller coaster of an adventure that I didn’t want to end. The characters were well fleshed & had plenty of depth, Penn & Amelia were very likeable & their attraction sizzled, also their verbal spats were very entertaining. The secondary characters were also well portrayed. The climax of the book was breath taking. This is the third in the series but could be read by itself but seriously why would you when the series is very very good & I’m so glad the author wrote this after so long a break from the series, I eagerly await Gideon’s story.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 24, 2018
LORD OF FORTUNE by Darcy Burke is book Three in the Legendary Rogues. This is the story of Penn Bowen and Amelia Gardiner. This is easily a standalone book I thought.
Amelia is the granddaughter of Jonathan Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner is the antiquarian who found the Heart of Llanllwch which is a stone that is said to be one of the Thirteen Treasures gathered by King Arthur and his knights...its her grandfather's legacy. Pen is the son of Rhys Bowen who was a scholar and treasure hunter and he believes the stone to be a fake. To really prove either way about the stone lies a dagger that both Amelia and Penn are looking for. But they are not the only ones looking for the dagger...let the adventure begin.
Really enjoyed this story and 'watching' how they came together.
Loved it!
Amelia is the granddaughter of Jonathan Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner is the antiquarian who found the Heart of Llanllwch which is a stone that is said to be one of the Thirteen Treasures gathered by King Arthur and his knights...its her grandfather's legacy. Pen is the son of Rhys Bowen who was a scholar and treasure hunter and he believes the stone to be a fake. To really prove either way about the stone lies a dagger that both Amelia and Penn are looking for. But they are not the only ones looking for the dagger...let the adventure begin.
Really enjoyed this story and 'watching' how they came together.
Loved it!
April 16, 2018
Oh, I loved this mix of historical romance and a bit of adventure. I would love to see this more often withhin the genre. Penn and Amelia were a great couple and I personally had a soft spot for Egg. I really enjoyed this!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley, thank you!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley, thank you!
April 14, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Legendary Rogues 3 , the series with romance and danger in equal parts .
This series and this author never leave you wanting , what a fantastic addition to the saga .
Penn and Amelia don’t disappoint in their adventure.
The Order are still around to cause problems , and Gideon is part of the crew , with Cate and Elijah as a little cameo near the end .
What more could you possibly want .
Let’s throw in , guns , a missing husband , a brilliant character called Egg, and an adventure that leaves you exhausted, that’s not counting the looks , and the heat between our H&h that will scorch you .
But there’s more ,just get the the book and read for yourself.
I received an advanced copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Legendary Rogues 3 , the series with romance and danger in equal parts .
This series and this author never leave you wanting , what a fantastic addition to the saga .
Penn and Amelia don’t disappoint in their adventure.
The Order are still around to cause problems , and Gideon is part of the crew , with Cate and Elijah as a little cameo near the end .
What more could you possibly want .
Let’s throw in , guns , a missing husband , a brilliant character called Egg, and an adventure that leaves you exhausted, that’s not counting the looks , and the heat between our H&h that will scorch you .
But there’s more ,just get the the book and read for yourself.
I received an advanced copy of this book and chose to submit a review
April 30, 2018
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 4/30/18.
Think Regency romance blended with Indiana Jones-style archaeology, and you've got this series!
Penn and Amelia start out on opposite sides of the quest for a legendary artifact (their first meeting was a lot of fun) but a little bit of persuasion and some research soon have them working in the same direction...and a great big helping of chemistry between them inevitably makes things a whole lot more complicated. Throw in some drama from their pasts and a secret group with nefarious intentions, and you've got a real page turner!
I enjoyed Penn and Amelia's story--I'm always a sucker for a good treasure hunt with my romance--though previous series characters and events do come into play quite a bit so I'm going to have to do my homework and read the other two before a fourth book comes out (and it will come out, right? Gideon must get a story ASAP!) Things aren't quite resolved for Penn at the end--a major bit of his past is still up in the air--so hopefully that means we'll still see a lot of him and Amelia in that one...
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Think Regency romance blended with Indiana Jones-style archaeology, and you've got this series!
Penn and Amelia start out on opposite sides of the quest for a legendary artifact (their first meeting was a lot of fun) but a little bit of persuasion and some research soon have them working in the same direction...and a great big helping of chemistry between them inevitably makes things a whole lot more complicated. Throw in some drama from their pasts and a secret group with nefarious intentions, and you've got a real page turner!
I enjoyed Penn and Amelia's story--I'm always a sucker for a good treasure hunt with my romance--though previous series characters and events do come into play quite a bit so I'm going to have to do my homework and read the other two before a fourth book comes out (and it will come out, right? Gideon must get a story ASAP!) Things aren't quite resolved for Penn at the end--a major bit of his past is still up in the air--so hopefully that means we'll still see a lot of him and Amelia in that one...
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 17, 2018
Was given an advance copy for honest review.
This is the 2nd book that I have read form the author Darcy Burke, I must say that she is starting to be one of my favorite historical romance author. She does an amazing job capturing your attention and having you not want to put a book down.
Lord of Fortune is a book filled with adventure and a great love story. It reminded me of the movie "National Treasure" but set back 19th century. The whole pretense of Penn and Amelia working together to uncover a historical artifact was such a great story. The mystery of where could the artifact be and who is trying to stop them for discovering it made you not want to put the book down.
Penn and Amelia connection throughout the book was so beautifully written and also comical to read. All of the characters in this book were well written and left you wanting to know more about them. There were lots of plot twist and surprises throughout this book, it truly made the book more interesting as you kept reading it.
I look forward to the next installment to this series and will definitely recommend this story to any book nerd that loves an historical romance.
This is the 2nd book that I have read form the author Darcy Burke, I must say that she is starting to be one of my favorite historical romance author. She does an amazing job capturing your attention and having you not want to put a book down.
Lord of Fortune is a book filled with adventure and a great love story. It reminded me of the movie "National Treasure" but set back 19th century. The whole pretense of Penn and Amelia working together to uncover a historical artifact was such a great story. The mystery of where could the artifact be and who is trying to stop them for discovering it made you not want to put the book down.
Penn and Amelia connection throughout the book was so beautifully written and also comical to read. All of the characters in this book were well written and left you wanting to know more about them. There were lots of plot twist and surprises throughout this book, it truly made the book more interesting as you kept reading it.
I look forward to the next installment to this series and will definitely recommend this story to any book nerd that loves an historical romance.
April 19, 2018
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher for an honest review. Thank you!!
I have read several of Ms. Burke's novels and I enjoyed this one. You do not need to read the first two novels in the series, but it will give you a better understanding of this novel. Amelia Gardiner is an intelligent woman on a mission to prove the artifact her grandfather found is not a fake. Penn Bowen, who seeks out these treasures, is out to prove the artifact is a fake. Both meet under trying circumstances and agree to work together. Amelia is keeping secrets and this could impact her growing relationship with Penn. Penn is able to think on his feet, but is unsure how to handle Amelia. Neither can deny their attraction to the other. As more secrets are revealed, it puts Amelia and Penn in uncharted territory. Still, they both have a mission to complete and need to avoid those seeking the treasure for nefarious purposes. They fall in love with each other, and circumstances prevent them from being together, but they will do whatever is necessary to protect the other.
I have read several of Ms. Burke's novels and I enjoyed this one. You do not need to read the first two novels in the series, but it will give you a better understanding of this novel. Amelia Gardiner is an intelligent woman on a mission to prove the artifact her grandfather found is not a fake. Penn Bowen, who seeks out these treasures, is out to prove the artifact is a fake. Both meet under trying circumstances and agree to work together. Amelia is keeping secrets and this could impact her growing relationship with Penn. Penn is able to think on his feet, but is unsure how to handle Amelia. Neither can deny their attraction to the other. As more secrets are revealed, it puts Amelia and Penn in uncharted territory. Still, they both have a mission to complete and need to avoid those seeking the treasure for nefarious purposes. They fall in love with each other, and circumstances prevent them from being together, but they will do whatever is necessary to protect the other.
April 24, 2018
Treasure hunt.
The meeting between Penn Bowen and Amelia Gardiner happened because they both wanted to find a famous artifact, for totally different reasons.
Heart of Llanlluch, the dagger Amelia's grandfather had found years ago, was again missing. And though her plan of approaching Penn had gone completely wrong, she ended up showing them both that there were other people behind the same treasure. However, these people were indeed more dangerous.
With this, Amelia and Penn decide to join forces, with the help of his assistant, Egg (Egbert Howell).
Throughout the adventure, the couple spend more time together and get to know each other, initiating new and contradictory feelings.
Penn ends up with a surprise, about his family, that could give a new direction to his life.
A very different story. Instead of passing through the noble balls in the high season, it happens amid excavations, where danger lurks at every corner.
For lovers of adventure and suspense, it's the right book.
4 stars
The meeting between Penn Bowen and Amelia Gardiner happened because they both wanted to find a famous artifact, for totally different reasons.
Heart of Llanlluch, the dagger Amelia's grandfather had found years ago, was again missing. And though her plan of approaching Penn had gone completely wrong, she ended up showing them both that there were other people behind the same treasure. However, these people were indeed more dangerous.
With this, Amelia and Penn decide to join forces, with the help of his assistant, Egg (Egbert Howell).
Throughout the adventure, the couple spend more time together and get to know each other, initiating new and contradictory feelings.
Penn ends up with a surprise, about his family, that could give a new direction to his life.
A very different story. Instead of passing through the noble balls in the high season, it happens amid excavations, where danger lurks at every corner.
For lovers of adventure and suspense, it's the right book.
4 stars
April 14, 2018
Another winner in the Legendary Rogues Series! I love the expertise Darcy Burke has in bringing her readers in to her books & submersing them personally. Penn Bowen, our hero, is a handsome, worry free, antiquity locator & leads a bachelor lifestyle with an occasional eye for the ladies (or they have eyes for him). He is happy in his life & only wishes to continue keeping Britain's history alive for all to enjoy. But........then he meets Amelia Gardiner, an intelligent, free spirited widow whose whole purpose is to prove her late Grandfather's treasure is genuine & to find the elusive dagger. There in lies the problem, Penn & Amelia are looking for the same things & she is only getting in the way of his quest. Can they learn to trust one another & work together? The supporting cast members were all great - Egg, was a hoot, Gideon has so much more to tell & his loving parents, Cate & Elijah (it nice to revisit with them from Book 2). This book has it all; adventure, suspense, danger, family, romance, spicy & a HEA! I was gifted this book as an ARC & I am, obviously, so glad I was as I highly recommend the read!
April 25, 2018
It's PENN!!!!!!
Sorry, had to get that out. I am so excited about Pen having his own story. Obviously I loved him in the first book. Who could not fall in love with that precocious boy with the photographic memory? All that adorableness is all grown up and fantastic. *whew!*
This story is amazing. Penn and Amelia have fantastic chemistry. Their very own adventure left me cheering for them well after The End.
I am here for this series. 100%. I love it. The story is interesting. The details and history are well researched and presented in an interesting way. The story is scholarly, but also an adventure. It is not dry as it could've been.
Sorry, had to get that out. I am so excited about Pen having his own story. Obviously I loved him in the first book. Who could not fall in love with that precocious boy with the photographic memory? All that adorableness is all grown up and fantastic. *whew!*
This story is amazing. Penn and Amelia have fantastic chemistry. Their very own adventure left me cheering for them well after The End.
I am here for this series. 100%. I love it. The story is interesting. The details and history are well researched and presented in an interesting way. The story is scholarly, but also an adventure. It is not dry as it could've been.
March 31, 2019
This wasn't a bad book at all; it just didn't grab me. I think the main problem was that there are two books that take place before this one. People and adventures which previously happened are mentioned which rather confused me and made me feel like I was missing too much. I did love the way the book started...like a scene from Indiana Jones. The characters were interesting, but the only one who really captured my attention was Gideon, who was not a part of the starring couple. I highly recommend reading the first two books before delving into this one. I would have enjoyed this one a lot more if I had.
April 20, 2018
This wasn't a bad book at all; it just didn't grab me. I think the main problem was that there are two books that take place before this one. People and adventures which previously happened are mentioned which rather confused me and made me feel like I was missing too much. I did love the way the book started...like a scene from Indiana Jones. The characters were interesting, but the only one who really captured my attention was Gideon, who was not a part of the starring couple. I highly recommend reading the first two books before delving into this one. I would have enjoyed this one a lot more if I had.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. (Thank you!) All opinions are strictly my own.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. (Thank you!) All opinions are strictly my own.
April 24, 2018
Penn had never like rules!
Ok, I'm so glad I followed this up after reading a great review. I loved it!
I loved Amelia Gardiner and Penn Bowen.
I loved the whole mystery of the thirteen treasures associated with the Arthurian legends.
"The Thirteen Treasures were items gathered by Arthur and his knights for one of their own—Gareth—so that he could win his bride.”
Of course Glastonbury gets a mention!
The beginning dives straight into the mystery of two particular treasures the Heart of Llanllwch and an iron dagger, which features in the elusive Legend of Ranulf and Hilaria.
Penn is bent on proving that these two artifacts are actually fake. Amelia, as it turns out is the granddaughter of the man responsible for finding these two treasures. She is just as determined to prove they are the real deal.
We swing right into action from the first moment, as our dare devil hero and treasure hunter Penn, is painfully acquiring the dagger hidden in a sharp rock formation, he is relieved of it by a mysterious person who appears from nowhere. Then almost immediately, a third group appears to overpower Penn, his manservant and the mysterious thief to take the dagger for themselves. These could be men sent from a group called the Order of the Round Table, who see their duty as hiding these treasures so that they remain in the realm of legend. But within the Order is another shadowy group--Camelot all descendants from Arthur's Knights, who are pursuing their own nefarious type ends. The mystery deepens almost immediately.
So maybe it's a tad twee in places but the storyline, but the action and the steamy romance all make up for that. Penn had never liked rules, Amelia feels the need to set some between them-- and therein lies the push and pull of their attraction to each other. Another marvelous hook!
I winged my way through this and enjoyed every moment!
A NetGalley ARC
Ok, I'm so glad I followed this up after reading a great review. I loved it!
I loved Amelia Gardiner and Penn Bowen.
I loved the whole mystery of the thirteen treasures associated with the Arthurian legends.
"The Thirteen Treasures were items gathered by Arthur and his knights for one of their own—Gareth—so that he could win his bride.”
Of course Glastonbury gets a mention!
The beginning dives straight into the mystery of two particular treasures the Heart of Llanllwch and an iron dagger, which features in the elusive Legend of Ranulf and Hilaria.
Penn is bent on proving that these two artifacts are actually fake. Amelia, as it turns out is the granddaughter of the man responsible for finding these two treasures. She is just as determined to prove they are the real deal.
We swing right into action from the first moment, as our dare devil hero and treasure hunter Penn, is painfully acquiring the dagger hidden in a sharp rock formation, he is relieved of it by a mysterious person who appears from nowhere. Then almost immediately, a third group appears to overpower Penn, his manservant and the mysterious thief to take the dagger for themselves. These could be men sent from a group called the Order of the Round Table, who see their duty as hiding these treasures so that they remain in the realm of legend. But within the Order is another shadowy group--Camelot all descendants from Arthur's Knights, who are pursuing their own nefarious type ends. The mystery deepens almost immediately.
So maybe it's a tad twee in places but the storyline, but the action and the steamy romance all make up for that. Penn had never liked rules, Amelia feels the need to set some between them-- and therein lies the push and pull of their attraction to each other. Another marvelous hook!
I winged my way through this and enjoyed every moment!
A NetGalley ARC
April 30, 2018
Penn Bowen knows a lot about antiquities and leads an exciting life as an adventurer, but he faces his toughest challenge yet. Trying to prove to Amelia that the valuable artefact her grandfather found and which now resides at the Oxford Museum is a fake doesn't get off to a great start, but he's determined to find the real treasure no matter what. However, being around each other isn't easy, but Penn is determined to make the most of the pair teaming up together. Will Penn be able to win Amelia over, or are the secrets she's keeping too big for the pair to ever have a chance at happy ever after?
I haven't read any of the previous books of this series, but I really enjoyed this third book of Ms. Burke's Legendary Rogues series due to the wonderful main characters that find it hard to trust each other at first; and dialogue that had me intrigued to keep reading in order to find out whether the hero was right or wrong when it came to what he believed about the valuable artefact her grandfather found. As for the way this story started, it sets the fast-pace of the book and drew me in immediately because of what the hero is doing. However, things get very interesting when the heroine enters the picture. Will she get her way?
Both the main characters are fascinating due to their back stories and their growing relationship. Yet, what I liked most of all is the obstacles these two had to overcome to be together. Will the heroine finally be free of her past? Will the heroine be able to be with the hero, especially when there's something big that's holding her back? Moreover, the heroine is resilient, courageous and I liked that she gave the hero a chance, even though it isn't easy for her to trust after what her jerk of a husband did in the past. I also liked how she challenged the hero, especially in the beginning because she wants to do right for her family name. Will she be able to prove the hero is wrong? While the hero, he's good at what he does in searching for antiquities and I loved his enthusiasm for what he does. I also liked how confident he was that he'd get to the bottom of the mystery of whether the artefact was indeed a fake. Yet, I couldn't help but sympathize with the hero because of what he learns about his parentage and that everything he believed was a lie. Can he handle the truth to be able to fulfil his new role?
Overall, Ms. Burke has delivered a really good read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance was delightful and had me hoping for the best for these two, as they have a big obstacle to overcome to be together; and the ending had me worried for the main characters because of what they go through, but had me loving that these two finally get their shot at happy ever after. I would recommend Lord of Fortune by Darcy Burke, if you enjoy Historical Romance or books by authors Jess Michaels, Erica Ridley, Christi Caldwell and Ella Quinn.
April 25, 2018
Publisher's Description:
Dashing adventurer Penn Bowen is dedicated to preserving Britain’s history and his carefree, bachelor lifestyle. He’s happiest when he’s in pursuit of knowledge and the occasional liaison with the right woman. So he’s more than a little perturbed when the wrong woman inserts herself into his latest quest—proving that a valuable artifact in Oxford’s museum is a fake. Amelia Gardiner is smart and capable...and determined to prove that Penn is wrong about the treasure her grandfather found.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead. But passion ignites between them and suddenly their alliance is more than a simple convenience. When peril strikes too close, they’ll risk everything they hold dear: family, honor, and a chance for the greatest treasure of all—love.
My Thoughts:
I really loved this book. It has an adventurousness that draws the reader in and reminds me of some love/adventure movies that I have been addicted to in the past, although they were of a contemporary nature and not historical like this is. Romancing The Stone comes to mind.
Penn Bowen is an adventurer who follows his instincts as far as antiquities go. He is on the trail of a dagger and just as he recovers it another person, a woman in disguise as a man demands he hand it over. Then to both of their surprise someone else takes it from them.
Amelia Gardiner is the daughter of the man who hid the dagger that Penn has recovered. The item in question is part of a trio of antiquities linked together. Penn is certain that at least one is a fake, that item is in a museum and was also recovered by Amelia's deceased father.
Will their quest to recover the dagger and Penn's need to prove the valuable artifact in Oxford’s museum is a fake lead to love or heartache for this unlikely pair.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.5 of 5.0 flames.
This book is more adventure than steamy love scenes.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the Author and Publisher to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Dashing adventurer Penn Bowen is dedicated to preserving Britain’s history and his carefree, bachelor lifestyle. He’s happiest when he’s in pursuit of knowledge and the occasional liaison with the right woman. So he’s more than a little perturbed when the wrong woman inserts herself into his latest quest—proving that a valuable artifact in Oxford’s museum is a fake. Amelia Gardiner is smart and capable...and determined to prove that Penn is wrong about the treasure her grandfather found.
Amelia won’t allow Penn to denigrate her family’s legacy, and she certainly won’t join the ranks of women who throw themselves at his feet. As secretive and dangerous factions infiltrate their hunt, Amelia and Penn must work together to stay one step ahead. But passion ignites between them and suddenly their alliance is more than a simple convenience. When peril strikes too close, they’ll risk everything they hold dear: family, honor, and a chance for the greatest treasure of all—love.
My Thoughts:
I really loved this book. It has an adventurousness that draws the reader in and reminds me of some love/adventure movies that I have been addicted to in the past, although they were of a contemporary nature and not historical like this is. Romancing The Stone comes to mind.
Penn Bowen is an adventurer who follows his instincts as far as antiquities go. He is on the trail of a dagger and just as he recovers it another person, a woman in disguise as a man demands he hand it over. Then to both of their surprise someone else takes it from them.
Amelia Gardiner is the daughter of the man who hid the dagger that Penn has recovered. The item in question is part of a trio of antiquities linked together. Penn is certain that at least one is a fake, that item is in a museum and was also recovered by Amelia's deceased father.
Will their quest to recover the dagger and Penn's need to prove the valuable artifact in Oxford’s museum is a fake lead to love or heartache for this unlikely pair.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.5 of 5.0 flames.
This book is more adventure than steamy love scenes.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the Author and Publisher to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
April 25, 2018
Marvellous !!!! Darcy has done it again .... she has maintained the link , thrill ,excitement in the 3rd book " LORD OF FORTUNE " of the " Legendary Rogues " series .... cant wait to read the 4th & last book in this series ...i ve read the previous two books in this series which were fun,enjoyable ..All the books in this series r stand alone but if u read it in order it will be more fun...
It was adventure from the first page itself with lots of twists and turns which got me hooked so had to finish in one sitting .This book relates to the mystery of two particular treasures the Heart of Llanllwch and an iron dagger..This book introduces Penn Bowen (adopted son of Rhys Bowen ) is a scholar , adventurer, an antiquarian (a seeker of lost treasures)and may be an earl . He is on the track of an ancient dagger ,he works as assistant to Carlton Burgess who is the keeper of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford.
Mrs. Amelia Gardiner Forrester is the granddaughter of Jonathon Gardiner. The Heart of Llanllwch was found several years ago by Jonathan Gardiner and donated to the museum. She is an intelligent woman on a mission to prove the artifact her grandfather found is not a fake. Penn Bowen, who seeks out these treasures, is out to prove the artifact is a fake.
That sets off a chase to all parts of England with Mrs. Forrester and Mr. Bowen having to work together to find the dagger ..
The plot was well developed & fast paced .It was scripted & written so well that i could visualize the actual scenes ... There is action, humour, mystery, suspense, romance ,escapes all the elements well synched with the story... Darcy's always has strong characters ..her heroine r strong , bold, independent,smart , sensible & heroes dashing ,brave ,Adorable People .... Even the secondary characters from the previous books r well placed & intertwined in the story... Darcy's writing style is so captivating that even if any flaws present are ignored as the book turns out so engrossing to reader .. may be i am biased as a fan but till today have enjoyed her work immensely ...she doesnt disappoint her reader ...
Darcy Burke’s historical novels are always enjoyable to read so I recommend reading them all particularly read all in this series...Awaiting Gideon's story (Captivating the Scoundrel) ...i loved the I loved the whole mystery of the thirteen treasures associated with the Arthurian legends. Thank you Darcy again for a such delightful treasure hunt romantic adventure story spun around history legend ...
"I received this e-book as ARC from the author in exchange for a Review . I am happy to say this is my voluntary & honest Review "
It was adventure from the first page itself with lots of twists and turns which got me hooked so had to finish in one sitting .This book relates to the mystery of two particular treasures the Heart of Llanllwch and an iron dagger..This book introduces Penn Bowen (adopted son of Rhys Bowen ) is a scholar , adventurer, an antiquarian (a seeker of lost treasures)and may be an earl . He is on the track of an ancient dagger ,he works as assistant to Carlton Burgess who is the keeper of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford.
Mrs. Amelia Gardiner Forrester is the granddaughter of Jonathon Gardiner. The Heart of Llanllwch was found several years ago by Jonathan Gardiner and donated to the museum. She is an intelligent woman on a mission to prove the artifact her grandfather found is not a fake. Penn Bowen, who seeks out these treasures, is out to prove the artifact is a fake.
That sets off a chase to all parts of England with Mrs. Forrester and Mr. Bowen having to work together to find the dagger ..
The plot was well developed & fast paced .It was scripted & written so well that i could visualize the actual scenes ... There is action, humour, mystery, suspense, romance ,escapes all the elements well synched with the story... Darcy's always has strong characters ..her heroine r strong , bold, independent,smart , sensible & heroes dashing ,brave ,Adorable People .... Even the secondary characters from the previous books r well placed & intertwined in the story... Darcy's writing style is so captivating that even if any flaws present are ignored as the book turns out so engrossing to reader .. may be i am biased as a fan but till today have enjoyed her work immensely ...she doesnt disappoint her reader ...
Darcy Burke’s historical novels are always enjoyable to read so I recommend reading them all particularly read all in this series...Awaiting Gideon's story (Captivating the Scoundrel) ...i loved the I loved the whole mystery of the thirteen treasures associated with the Arthurian legends. Thank you Darcy again for a such delightful treasure hunt romantic adventure story spun around history legend ...
"I received this e-book as ARC from the author in exchange for a Review . I am happy to say this is my voluntary & honest Review "
April 20, 2018
Lord of Fortune is a good mix of adventure, intrigue, mystery, suspense and romance. They all blend in seamlessly together.
Penn is an antiques expert who excels at finding and preserving the history of British treasures. He is single and likes his life of adventure.
Amelia is a smart and independent lady. She has suffered many losses, one of which is a blessing in disguise even though the circumstances are rather obscure.
Whilst in persuit of one of her grandfather's artifacts, Amelia encounters Penn who is trying to retrieve the same object. She looks to have the upper hand until the tables turn, then they are attacked by rogues. Who else is seeking this mysterious artifact associated with superstition?
Once, they establish their roles in this persuit, they agree to work together, especially as Amelia would like nothing more than prove Penn wrong in his belief! Together, they embark on this adventurous journey, where one mystery leads to another. There are other dangerous organisations who seek these treasures for different purposes. Working together brings Penn and Amelia closer to each other and soon love starts to blossom. She then makes a discovery which could turn everything upside down, but Penn is not about to give up so easily. Can they retrieve what they seek unscathed and save their blossoming relationship?
This novel is full of mystery and the characters are very presented. Penn and Amelia are loving and lovable. Gideon, Penn's cousin is determined to get to the bottom of his heritage and plays an important role in solving the mysteries. It's a captivating and thrilling story which held my attention at all times. It will be interesting to see how Gideon's quest develop. This would appeal to fans of historical romance with a flair for adventure.
I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
Penn is an antiques expert who excels at finding and preserving the history of British treasures. He is single and likes his life of adventure.
Amelia is a smart and independent lady. She has suffered many losses, one of which is a blessing in disguise even though the circumstances are rather obscure.
Whilst in persuit of one of her grandfather's artifacts, Amelia encounters Penn who is trying to retrieve the same object. She looks to have the upper hand until the tables turn, then they are attacked by rogues. Who else is seeking this mysterious artifact associated with superstition?
Once, they establish their roles in this persuit, they agree to work together, especially as Amelia would like nothing more than prove Penn wrong in his belief! Together, they embark on this adventurous journey, where one mystery leads to another. There are other dangerous organisations who seek these treasures for different purposes. Working together brings Penn and Amelia closer to each other and soon love starts to blossom. She then makes a discovery which could turn everything upside down, but Penn is not about to give up so easily. Can they retrieve what they seek unscathed and save their blossoming relationship?
This novel is full of mystery and the characters are very presented. Penn and Amelia are loving and lovable. Gideon, Penn's cousin is determined to get to the bottom of his heritage and plays an important role in solving the mysteries. It's a captivating and thrilling story which held my attention at all times. It will be interesting to see how Gideon's quest develop. This would appeal to fans of historical romance with a flair for adventure.
I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
April 24, 2018
Mystery and Romance make for a great combo in Lord Of Fortune by Darcy Burke! A dynamite high 5 stars for this amazing tale! We first meet Penn Bowen and his friend "Egg" who are in a cave searching for a very important artifact when all of a sudden they are met with shots from a very determined fellow who wants his hands on the artifact; however, to Penn's surprise the stranger is no man, but a delightfully lovely and very beautiful woman, still determined to find and possess the artifact for herself. The artifact they both seek is a gold dagger; however, they are not the only ones in pursuit of this precious dagger.
Amelia Gardiner is in pursuit of the dagger because it was her Grandfather's work and she wants him credited. However, Penn informs her that the dagger is a fake and they are both then in pursuit of the real dagger. During their journey to seek out the dagger and also a very precious "heart" artifact feelings begin to evolve and Penn pushes them away every chance he can; however, the delectable Amelia seems to be pulling at his heart as hard as he pulls away. Will Amelia and Penn find the precious artifacts and will they open up to the love boiling within their own hearts?
I absolutely love this tale, Burke is such an impeccable writer. Her stories are rife with passion and love, but also intrigue and a lot of good tension! If you love a deep, passionate romance with a bit of mystery, then this is the book for you!
Amelia Gardiner is in pursuit of the dagger because it was her Grandfather's work and she wants him credited. However, Penn informs her that the dagger is a fake and they are both then in pursuit of the real dagger. During their journey to seek out the dagger and also a very precious "heart" artifact feelings begin to evolve and Penn pushes them away every chance he can; however, the delectable Amelia seems to be pulling at his heart as hard as he pulls away. Will Amelia and Penn find the precious artifacts and will they open up to the love boiling within their own hearts?
I absolutely love this tale, Burke is such an impeccable writer. Her stories are rife with passion and love, but also intrigue and a lot of good tension! If you love a deep, passionate romance with a bit of mystery, then this is the book for you!
April 30, 2018
Book #3 in the series Legendary Rogues, Lord of Fortune is another much waited instalment of the Bowen's saga. It can be read without knowledge of the previous books, though. The main characters of Book #1 appear now, but with a minor role.
Penn Bowen, the adopted son of Rhys Bowen (#1, The de Valery Code or Lady of Desire), is a treasure hunter who finds much more than some of the objects that would be part of the Thirteen Treasures, gathered by King Arthur.
Amelia Gardiner, whose grandfather had found one of the Treasures in the past (a Heart with special powers) and handed it in to a museum in Oxford, comes to find Penn when he has just found another of the Treasures - a Dagger, which would "cut the powers" of the Heart. While the two of them fought for the dagger, another group (one of the secret societies who claim to protect the Treasures) arrives and steals the Dagger. Penn and Amelia have to join forces in order to find the Dagger and uncover secrets related to the Treasures.
In spite of some minor problems (the story dragged a little at the beginning; there were so many mysterious things that I thought they wouldn't be solved in this book; the reappearance of Gideon was kind of strange), I'm really anxious to read Gideon's story - I hope it won't take a long time, Ms. Burke
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Penn Bowen, the adopted son of Rhys Bowen (#1, The de Valery Code or Lady of Desire), is a treasure hunter who finds much more than some of the objects that would be part of the Thirteen Treasures, gathered by King Arthur.
Amelia Gardiner, whose grandfather had found one of the Treasures in the past (a Heart with special powers) and handed it in to a museum in Oxford, comes to find Penn when he has just found another of the Treasures - a Dagger, which would "cut the powers" of the Heart. While the two of them fought for the dagger, another group (one of the secret societies who claim to protect the Treasures) arrives and steals the Dagger. Penn and Amelia have to join forces in order to find the Dagger and uncover secrets related to the Treasures.
In spite of some minor problems (the story dragged a little at the beginning; there were so many mysterious things that I thought they wouldn't be solved in this book; the reappearance of Gideon was kind of strange), I'm really anxious to read Gideon's story - I hope it won't take a long time, Ms. Burke
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2018
Lord of Fortune, is the 3rd book in the Legendary Rogues series. But Don't worry, as with most of this author's books it can be read as a stand alone, without feeling lost or confused. With a witty and easy flowing writing style, a good story line and a happy ending. This is another quick and fun read.
Fun, flirty romance, treasure hunting and an alternative look at the nobility. Arthurian legends and artifacts.
Penn and Amelia take on an evil faction of a secretive group who guard the antiquities associated with Arthurian legends. Not sure who to trust they turn to each other. The unexpected happens when Amelia's husband shows up as one of the henchman of the evil faction, thwarting her thoughts on having him declared dead and pursuing her feelings for Penn. Penn gets the unexpected news that he is actually an Earl.
The book does have a lot happening and can get rather confusing with everyone's past and families. There is a huge cast of characters, but it all comes to a great ending, though honestly it does take a bit to get going, hang in there though because, these 2 will steal your heart.
While it's not my favorite, story by this author, it is a fun and interesting read, well researched and the characters are well done.
*I received a copy from the author for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Fun, flirty romance, treasure hunting and an alternative look at the nobility. Arthurian legends and artifacts.
Penn and Amelia take on an evil faction of a secretive group who guard the antiquities associated with Arthurian legends. Not sure who to trust they turn to each other. The unexpected happens when Amelia's husband shows up as one of the henchman of the evil faction, thwarting her thoughts on having him declared dead and pursuing her feelings for Penn. Penn gets the unexpected news that he is actually an Earl.
The book does have a lot happening and can get rather confusing with everyone's past and families. There is a huge cast of characters, but it all comes to a great ending, though honestly it does take a bit to get going, hang in there though because, these 2 will steal your heart.
While it's not my favorite, story by this author, it is a fun and interesting read, well researched and the characters are well done.
*I received a copy from the author for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 1, 2018
So much conspiracy surrounding King Arthur and his round table of knights, that the legends travel through generations!
Thank you to netgalley for offering me an eARC to voluntarily read in exchange for an honest review. Darcy Burke is a favorite Historical Romance author that I have enjoyed for years; so imagine my delight in the opportunity to read her newest book Lord of Fortune, book #3 of Legendary Rogues collection. Don’t worry, this book is a great stand-alone if you have yet to read any other within the collection.
The meat: The story launches the reader straight into our main characters’ meet-cute. Amelia and Penn are both interested in one thing, an antiquity. An amazing Arthurian historical artifact that we soon find out is hunted by others besides Amelia and Penn. With similar interests the two deside to work as a team. Their professional relationship soon blossoms into much more. Unfortunately, they both carry extreme baggage keeping them from what they both wish for.
There is conspiracy, trust issues, romance, mysteries and adventure all wrapped together within this story. I give this book a 4 out of 5 simply because I didn’t find myself completely devouring the story like I have with so many other Darcy Burke books.
Thank you to netgalley for offering me an eARC to voluntarily read in exchange for an honest review. Darcy Burke is a favorite Historical Romance author that I have enjoyed for years; so imagine my delight in the opportunity to read her newest book Lord of Fortune, book #3 of Legendary Rogues collection. Don’t worry, this book is a great stand-alone if you have yet to read any other within the collection.
The meat: The story launches the reader straight into our main characters’ meet-cute. Amelia and Penn are both interested in one thing, an antiquity. An amazing Arthurian historical artifact that we soon find out is hunted by others besides Amelia and Penn. With similar interests the two deside to work as a team. Their professional relationship soon blossoms into much more. Unfortunately, they both carry extreme baggage keeping them from what they both wish for.
There is conspiracy, trust issues, romance, mysteries and adventure all wrapped together within this story. I give this book a 4 out of 5 simply because I didn’t find myself completely devouring the story like I have with so many other Darcy Burke books.
March 31, 2024
One of my favorite Darcy Burke stories! Penn is Indiana Jones. Such an awesome series. I haven't managed to read the first two yet but I'm going back and do it.
Penn Bowen, adopted son of Rhys and Margery Bowen (from book one) works for the museum and finds antiquities as well as track downs historic mysteries. He's got a lead on the dagger that's one of the 13 Treasures of Camelot. These treasures are fiercely guarded and kept hidden by The Order, the descendants of the Knights of the Round Table. Within that group there is The Camelot Group faction that will do anything to gain and these items to use the power for themselves. Penn's sister Cate found The Flaming Sword in book 2 and he knows The Heart is in the Museum, although it's fake. He bumps into Amelia Gardiner, granddaughter of the finder of this heart. She's also trying to locate the dagger to add it to the museum with her grandfather's heart.
I found this adventurous tale riveting and the plot surprised me several times. I love when that happens. There was much puzzle solving, action scenes that I found believable and delicious romance. I can't wait to read the conclusion in Gideon's story. Thank you Darcy for this story and the opportunity to read the freely given ARC for my honest review. Just LOVED it!
Penn Bowen, adopted son of Rhys and Margery Bowen (from book one) works for the museum and finds antiquities as well as track downs historic mysteries. He's got a lead on the dagger that's one of the 13 Treasures of Camelot. These treasures are fiercely guarded and kept hidden by The Order, the descendants of the Knights of the Round Table. Within that group there is The Camelot Group faction that will do anything to gain and these items to use the power for themselves. Penn's sister Cate found The Flaming Sword in book 2 and he knows The Heart is in the Museum, although it's fake. He bumps into Amelia Gardiner, granddaughter of the finder of this heart. She's also trying to locate the dagger to add it to the museum with her grandfather's heart.
I found this adventurous tale riveting and the plot surprised me several times. I love when that happens. There was much puzzle solving, action scenes that I found believable and delicious romance. I can't wait to read the conclusion in Gideon's story. Thank you Darcy for this story and the opportunity to read the freely given ARC for my honest review. Just LOVED it!
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