Victorian Rebels Book 4
This book started with a bang. We’re taken straight into the action where Cole and Imogen meet at a gambling den. Imogen is working (using the name Ginny) to pay off her father’s debts and take care of her family. However, I should warn you that it’s a little bit seedy because Cole buys Imogen’s virginity which is a little bit urgh, even if he is incredibly kind and gentle and treats her with care and consideration.
The story then jumps ahead after Cole’s been missing for a few years and Imogen’s still working at the gambling den and as a nurse. Cole’s brought into the hospital amid rumours of spying and torture. Unknown to him, Imogen saves his life.
Then everything falls apart when Imogen loses her job and is almost raped. However, she is saved by a kindly, but terminally-ill patient who happens to be an earl and neighbour of Cole’s family.
Then there is another time jump and Cole is trying to find his Ginny but has no idea his Ginny and the eccentric woman who lives next door are the same person.
The story meanders on, and we get a bit of a murder mystery to enjoy while Cole and Imogen spend their time arguing or kissing.
I didn’t dislike Cole, but I didn’t particularly love him either. He was a bit of a hypocrite, disparaging Imogen for her so-called social-climbing marriage and philanthropic projects, yet mooning over and longing for a woman whose virginity he bought.
As with all the rebels so far he’s experienced a traumatic past. His anger and pain cause him to lash out. Cole’s portrayed as a hero who made sacrifices for his country, but I’m not convinced it’s okay to use it as an excuse to get away with being horrid. Which he is to Imogen, and many readers may feel she’s too easy to forgive him. I’ll admit, I would have liked a bit more grovelling on his part.
Imogen has had plenty of issues to deal with in her own life. She’s much more likable because at least she’s stepped up and taken ownership of her decisions. Now she uses her money and status for a higher purpose.
I could not wait for Cole to discover the truth about Imogen/Ginny and the tension and suspense kept the pages turning. However, this book’s a bit lower on the steam scales than the others in the series and it’s concentrated at the beginning and the end with just a bit of kissing and heavy petting in between.
You’ll enjoy this if you like tortured heroes and the women who are willing to look beyond their demons and help them heal. However, some may find Cole a little too judgemental and Imogen too forgiving.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Feels:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
