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Nelson's Tea #1

My Lord Rogue

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Gillian Chauncey, Baroness Chauncey, is a master of disguise, trained by her expatriated husband, a former French royalist, in the arts of espionage. When a dangerous life or death secret lands in her lap, she’s thrust into a perilous world of ticking clocks and desperation, arrowing her directly into the arms of the man who arranged her marriage.
Lord Simon Danbury is no ordinary nobleman. He’s been tasked by Admiral Nelson to organize an elite group of clandestine first sons willing to sacrifice all to protect England’s shores. When an assassination attempt is made on Nelson, Simon isn’t sure what poses more danger, the enemy or the masterfully seductive Gillian.

109 pages, ebook

First published May 5, 2014

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About the author

Katherine Bone

34 books337 followers
Addicted to history and romance, Katherine spent the better part of her childhood roaming the globe as an Army brat. Then while attending college, she was swept off her feet by a military officer. Yes, reader she married him, and they continued traveling the world. Four children, two Labradors and three cats later, Katherine put down roots in the south. Where, at last, she pursued her lifelong passion of creating vivid stories that came calling with abandon. Adventure. Mayhem. Swashbuckling heroes. Her books are pure escapism at heart.

If you'd like to follow Katherine's adventures on the literary seas, sign up for her Rogues, Rebels & Rakes Newsletter at: http://www.katherinebone.com/contact/

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5 stars
122 (36%)
4 stars
106 (31%)
3 stars
71 (21%)
2 stars
28 (8%)
1 star
8 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Sam Spencer.
450 reviews3 followers
June 8, 2015
Way too short!!!
It ended WAY too abruptly.
I feel an intense lack of closure where this book is concerned.
Profile Image for Candace N.
318 reviews10 followers
July 14, 2018
My Lord Rogue by Katherine Bone is the first book in The Nelson’s Tea series. I was wiping away tears within the first 8 pages. I can’t even begin to articulate how much I loved this story. It is emotional, fabulously written, and had my complete attention until the very end. The characters, amount of detail, facts, and how the story played out, made for a very believable story. The story flowed nicely and was interesting. I can’t wait to read the rest! This is a story I could read more than once and I have high hopes for the rest of the books in the series.
Profile Image for AnnMarie.
1,227 reviews34 followers
February 3, 2018
My Lord Rogue: A Nelson's Tea Novella is the first book in Katherine Bone's Nelson's Tea series.

Gillian Chauncey, Baroness Chauncey, despite being married to another, has always only been in love with one man, Lord Simon Danbury. He loved her in return but an obligation to his family meant me must marry another. Gillian spent the next 5 years as a spy for the English and many times worked beside her husband who was also a spy. Sad circumstances make her a widow and she must return to London to convey a message to stop an assassination attempt on Lord Admiral Nelson.

Simon Danbury is also a spy and when he saw Cynthia marry his friend and move to the country he never dreamed that the safety he wanted for her would be non-existent. He has no idea she has been risking her life as a spy. When they see each other in London all their feelings which they have pushed to the back of their minds coming flooding to the forefront. Cynthia is now free, but Simon is still married, so it still seems that their love will never be. They both realise that that should be the last thing on their minds though with Admiral Nelson's safety in danger, and with war looming large.

If I were to sum this book up in one word it would be WOW! It may only have been a novella but it was full of action, romance and historical facts. It was very obvious that the author paid meticulous attention to her research. The book held me in awe from the very first pages where I found myself in tears over Cynthia's husband's death. From there I ran the gamut of emotions as the story unfolded, more tears, some laughter, and times when I held my breath because of the suspense. I can't believe that such a short book could be so exciting. I enjoyed this story so much, I wish I could give it more than 5 stars! I can't wait for the next one to be released.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
1,353 reviews40 followers
February 2, 2018
Gillian Corbet, now Baroness Chauncey, had once been in love with Lord Simon Danbury, but due to unfortunate circumstances, they had married other people and life went on. Now widowed, Gillian has come back to London, having been privy to the information that Admiral Nelson’s life is in danger, and she will have to see Simon again…

MY LORD ROGUE is the first instalment of the Nelson’s Tea series about a group of English spies dedicated to thwart Napoleon’s threats against Britain. Katherine Bone sets up the series splendidly, against a richly detailed historical background, and the careful merging of factual and fictional characters; it’s obvious that a lot of meticulous research went into the writing of this book. The spy world felt real, especially when it came to Gillian, who was entirely believable; it never felt forced or far-fetched. MY LORD ROGUE is rather an introduction to the world of Nelson’s Tea and the reunion of Gillian and Simon.

Gillian is a beautiful character; stoic, competent at what she does, but Simon is a bit more enigmatic. A secondary character, Edwina, broke my heart, I cared for her a lot, and it had an impact the future (no spoilers!). Percival Avery, the Marquess of Stanton, stole my heart! He is incredibly colourful, his disguise as a fop is brilliant; he dazzled me. There wasn’t as much action as I anticipated, but what there was, was exceptionally well done. MY LORD ROGUE is a revised edition of an earlier – and shorter version – of the book, and I wonder what has been added or added. MY LORD ROGUE is not precisely a romance, but a romance to be rekindled when the time is right. But still, MY LORD ROGUE is a fine introduction to a new series.

Katherine Bone’s writing is effortlessly fluid, all the while retaining a vibrant elegance befitting the spying world as well as the romance; and the dialogues are splendid. The ending is unbearably gorgeous, bittersweet, tinged with melancholy as well as hinting towards a hopeful future. The author handled a delicate situation with unusual finesse and aplomb; it was all so superbly well written, so beautiful and lovely and wonderful. Ah, the art of being able to convey one’s thoughts in such a stylish manner!


I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tisa.
1,074 reviews5 followers
April 16, 2021
I love this series. I enjoy the strong characters & the sacrifices they have made to protect the crown & country.

I appreciate the respect that Gillian Chauncey, Baroness Chauncey, had for her husband Lucien Corbet, Baron Chauncey. This marriage may have started out of convenience & protection for Gillian. But it turned into mutual respect, loyalty, training & partnership. I did wonder if the couple consummates their relationship? Regardless, you feel Gillian's grief over the loss & sacrifice her husband made when taking the position of being a spy for Crown & Country. While dying in her arms, Lucien informs Gillian she must send a message with regard to the upcoming assassination of Vice-Admiral Nelson. The founder of the secret league of spies that protect England & try to gain control over Napoleon.

To pass on this important message Gillian must put her anguish of leaving her beloved husband behind in the forest to die by himself. Gillian must use all her strength, skills Lucian has taught her & return to London being an actress with her many disguises. Lucian stated she must give this crucial message to the Leader of Nelson's Tea league; the man who broke her heart 5 yrs ago by marrying another.
Lord Simon Danbury- is the only man that can protect Gillian from danger now that she holds a secret that has landed in her lap. Simon doesn't know that his friend, colleague, Lucian trained his beautiful actress wife on the art of espionage. The former French royalist & the man Simon arranged for Gillan to be protected & marry has made his wife be a vital part of the cause secretly. Now Simon & Gillian will see each other at the opera for the first time in 5 yrs.

Lord Simon Danbury is no ordinary nobleman. He’s been tasked by Admiral Nelson to organize an elite group of clandestine first sons willing to sacrifice all to protect England’s shores. When an assassination attempt is made on Nelson. In the darkness of the Opera house, he has to be given a message of importance by a widow. Simon cannot see the graceful, elegant Lady in black. Is Simon's heart deceiving him? But he knows that seductive walk & her scent from years ago of loving her. It cannot be Baroness Gillian. The woman he had to let go out of duty & obligation to his family by marrying another to have his wife avoid scandal. How can this be? Why is she here & does she know she poses more danger, to the enemy & herself?
Read this suspenseful, love-longing sacrifice of the League & Simon & Gillian.
The only thing I wish is that they had them in a love scene.
Though there is an intimate scene that is quite beautiful.
Make sure to follow their love in "The Lady Rogue".
Profile Image for Janet.
4,562 reviews49 followers
April 23, 2018
Gillian Chauncey, Baroness Chauncey, is a master of disguise, trained by her expatriated husband Lucien, a former French royalist, in the arts of espionage. When a dangerous life or death secret lands in her lap, she’s thrust into a perilous world of ticking clocks and desperation. Lord Simon Danbury is no ordinary nobleman. He’s been tasked by Admiral Nelson to organize an elite group willing to sacrifice all to protect England’s shores. When an assassination attempt is made on Nelson, Simon isn’t sure what poses more danger, the enemy or the masterfully seductive Gillian.
This is an updated reissue & a prequel to the Nelson Tea series, which I now can’t wait to read. A well written long novella with very good characters. Simon & Gillian are very likeable, they were in love five years ago but Simon second son of a Duke had agreed to an arranged marriage. He encouraged Gillian to marry Lucien but they still love each other & now are thrown together as members of the clandestine group. The pace of the book is very good & I found myself caught up in the story so much so that I read it in well under a day. This is a great teaser & I now so want to read the series & also to see if they have their HEA. The other members of the group are also intriguing especially Percival.

My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for Michelle Kaye.
61 reviews4 followers
May 30, 2014
I was very disappointed in this story - although it appears that this is a setup story (novella) for at least one other book.

It's not your typical historical romance at all - there is romance, but it almost takes a back seat to the issue and spy setting.

Overall I found the story (not the writing) hard to read. It jumps around in time quite a bit, with the characters remembering their shared history, but I also found parts of it repeatitive - that is on one page something would be said, then 1 or 2 pages later it would be said again.

This is the first story that I've read by Katherine Bone, I'm not sure about reading any others at the moment...
Profile Image for Krystal.
1,226 reviews31 followers
February 8, 2018
Having read all of the other novels in the Nelson's Tea Series, I found it almost unfathomable that I had not read the novella that started it all.

My Lord Rogue perfectly sets the stage for the novels that come later, introducing you to the primary cast of characters, and giving you the background needed in order to understand the threats facing them. If you haven't already started this series, then I would highly recommend that you do so, starting with this novella! Ms. Bone has a gift of being able to draw her readers into the scenes and worlds that she has created, allowing you to visualize these characters, and experience their joys – and their sorrows – alongside of them.

I would highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy well written novels that feature a cast of characters unlike any I've ever encountered before.

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Petula.
2,878 reviews78 followers
February 3, 2018
Gillian Corbett, Baroness Chauncey is a very unusual woman. She and her husband have been working as spies for the English Crown. When disaster strikes she must head to London to save the life of a great man.
Lord Simon Danbury is one of Admiral Nelson's most trusted spies. He has worked his way up, and given up a lot to help England stay safe in the dangerous times they live in.
This is an exciting story full of danger and intrigue. Our characters are in a very difficult situation that could bring them heartache again.
This is the start of what I'm sure will be a great series.
Profile Image for Mary.
2,753 reviews24 followers
February 24, 2018
This is suspenseful, sad, and sweet. Simon is loyal to family and country, bold and responsible. Gillian is strong, brave, confident and caring. They met, fell in love, then married other people, for different reasons. He married for family, she married for safety. Five years later they're thrown together, only to discover that the attraction is still just as strong as it was. The storyline is full of angst and drama, with a twist at the end. It's an intriguing story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
2,182 reviews23 followers
February 6, 2018
This seemed like an introduction to the characters that will appear in the rest of the series. However, it was an engaging story and important to read as it sets the background for the series. The two main characters, Gillian and Simon, had previous history and a number of things have occurred during the 5 years since they had seen each other. There are dangerous times and heart wrenching moments. I look forward to seeing how the series develops.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
Author 5 books30 followers
March 20, 2019
This novella was a great introduction into the very origins of the Nelson's Tea group!

The characters were round, with opposing emotions, but the same end goals - to assist England in her war efforts against the French Napoleon. Who better to lead this group of men and woman than Lord Nelson himself.

In the end, it all turned out well and a reconciliation among the hero and heroine.

I can't wait to continue the series and see if our band of heroes will triumph!
810 reviews4 followers
February 6, 2018
This book is an intriguing story of lost love but with hope for the future and full of mystery and action.
A fantastic prequel for a new series! I'm looking forward to read the next to see what will happen.
The characters are strong and resourceful and the plot well developed. You will love it!
I received an ARC and this is my honest and voluntary review
1,719 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2018
this was a great 2nd chance romance. she thought they would get married that they loved each other until she finds out that he's betrothed to someone else. so he tells her marry the baron well 5 years later circumstances bring them back together. per her husbands dying wish she needs to tell her lost love of a plot to kill the admiral. can't wait for more from this author
136 reviews3 followers
March 25, 2021
More of a prequel than an actual novel

I liked the story and it introduced a lot of characters but then it just stopped. At the end the author says you can find out the rest of the two main characters' story in book 4 of the series. So you have to read, buy. three more books or skip two and buy number 4.
Profile Image for Cindy Stone.
148 reviews2 followers
June 11, 2021
Too much windup and little delivery. Designed to be the Introductory novella to a new series, too much time setting up the story and left me feeling I'd missed the beginning of it all. Didn't get into dialogue, really, until more than halfway through and too many improbable things happen. However, I did read an excerpt of the first book in the series and it seems far better. Time will tell.
91 reviews
February 19, 2023
My Lord Rogue.

Another well written historical book that Katherine Bone has obviously researched extensively and given insight into how these men and women put their lives and honour behind Lord Nelson in support and for England. Having an actress in the thro with her ex lover beside her gives this book the romantic foil against the side of war. Recommended read.
1,110 reviews32 followers
February 7, 2018
the first book in the Nelson Tea Series will capture your heart. You will want to read then next book in the series, and I personally hope it is soon! Beautifully written, wonderful interesting characters.:
30 reviews
March 15, 2018
Hard to get through

Although this was only a novella it still seemed far too wordy. The H & h were too melodramatic and droned on too long about every thought, every feeling, every contemplation. Not very enjoyable.
43 reviews
April 3, 2021
Where's the rest of the story?

This book was a lot of building up to a climax & then the climax fizzled. It's like half the story is missing. I thought maybe it was in the next book, but the next book is about different characters. Very disappointed.
Profile Image for Carol .
148 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2021
A great read

I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were believable and well rounded. There was a great mix of love, danger, and history in this read. I look forward to reading more of this series.
727 reviews2 followers
September 20, 2021
Tedious and unfocused too much internalised monologue and didn’t make me want to read any more of the series, unfortunate because the premise had promise but execution a bit hit and miss. Also Nelson’s Tea was a ridiculous name.

Try Joanna Bourne for much better spy plots.
Profile Image for Janet Wild.
495 reviews2 followers
December 13, 2023
An emotional read

This is a tale of death and old loves, along with political intrigue. It is well written and you can feel their pain and emotional turmoil. Set in the time of the Neapolitan wars, a ring if spies is working to undermine the French plans.
Profile Image for Sherry Westendorf.
4,534 reviews22 followers
May 19, 2024
Hate a book that makes you read the next one to get more of the story. You end up having to buy a lot of books you can't afford. Sent it back for a refund. Really wanted to read it. Oh well. Good luck to all who don't mind. Will read your reviews. thanks
848 reviews2 followers
February 12, 2018
My LordRogue

The era when Napoleon was gaining power and popularity was a time of danger to Britain. Spies from both countries we we active.
Profile Image for Patricia Schuette.
633 reviews3 followers
August 30, 2018
Wow what a story

It's as if you were living at that time when Nelson fought so valiantly against the threat of Napoleon. I couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Jessica.
131 reviews
March 19, 2019
This was a wonderful story. Personally, I wish it was longer. I wanted to know more about Lucien and Gillian’s life. But, the intrigue and love story were spot on! Great short read!
Profile Image for Annette.
1,175 reviews
March 30, 2021
MY LORD ROGUE: is the story of SIMON and GILLIAN, who have each been forced to marry others. Lots of history here and not much romance. I enjoyed the writing style and the history.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews

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