A story to get thoroughly wrapped up in without even realizing it.
Rosemary is from a world of orphans and thieves in London. Peter is from a well to do family of property, and a friend of the King of England. Rosemary isn't a simple thief, she's more of a grifter. She's quite intelligent and is hired to act as a librarian, go to Peter's home and find proof that he's a German spy. But he's not a spy. He has a personal reason for being somewhat reclusive, and his ancestors were from Germany. He’s a Gentleman, and Rosemary and her “family” have learned not to trust Gentlemen so it makes it easier for her to take the job.
Peter believes that he was born in England, but those records are not easy to find, since his family saved every bit of correspondence over the years and their manor home has a huge room full of books – many with his family in them. Rosemary has earned a reputation as being the best at what she does, and Mr. V comes to her for the job at Peter’s house. She taught herself German for another “project” and learned in a short amount of time how to act as a librarian.
It's interesting that Rosemary doesn't try to make up a story about herself, but instead talks of her "Family" by name. It's Peter who is keeping something well hidden. There's great depth to the story that while you become more endeared to the unveiling of the characters, it gives you much to ponder. A layering of mysteries, spies and danger that keeps you hooked. Also one of the best laid out lessons of becoming a Christian I’ve read in a novel. Excellent read that you will love every minute of.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Bethany House Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Publishers Description
Edwardian Romance and History Gains a Twist of Suspense
Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?
Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.
But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?