The Secret of the India Orchid - (Proper Romance Regency) by Nancy Campbell Allen (Paperback)

About the Book

When Anthony, Earl of Wilshire, journeys to India on an undercover mission to investigate a mystery surrounding a confidential document, he is reunited with Sophia, whom he hopes can forgive him for breaking her heart and even consider giving love a second chance.

Book Synopsis

Anthony Blake is in love with his best friend's sister, Sophia Elliot. But his plans to court her are put on hold when he is forced to resume his role as an undercover spy for the Crown. A secret document listing the names of the entire network of British spies-including his own-has been stolen. To protect Sophia, Anthony cuts off all ties to her and exchanges his life as an honorable earl for the façade of a flirtatious playboy.

Heartbroken and confused, Sophia travels to India, hoping to find healing in one of the most exotic regions of the British Empire. But the exotic land isn't as restful as she had hoped. Instead, she finds herself embroiled in a mystery of a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and a plot that could involve the prince of India. And when Anthony appears at the British Residency, asking questions and keeping his distance from her, she is stunned.

She still loves him, and, in her heart, she knows he loves her too. But how can she rebuild her relationship with him if he won't confide in her? Does she dare offer her heart to him a second time, or will their love be lost under the India sun?

Review Quotes

"Drawing on historical practices and mindsets of the period, Allen depicts a striking contrast in the cultural differences between Britannia and an India struggling to assert herself, centering on a wounded heroine dealing with culture shock. Overall, a sweet romance with elements of suspense in a dreamily beautiful setting."-- "Historical Novel Society"

"Sweet romance accompanied by an exciting mystery that builds to a satisfying end. The cast of characters is well drawn, and features a number of varied, strong women. The romance between Sophia and Anthony rebuilds itself in a lovely and compelling way. Well worth adding to your reading list."-- "Romantic Times"

"A sweet, creative Regency romance with just enough novelty to make it refreshing...Clever, engaging."-- "Kirkus" (6/20/2017 12:00:00 AM)

"Allen's (Beauty and the Clockwork Beast, 2016) skill in creating evocative yet sweet romance novels will appeal to a wide range of readers. Allen's historical descriptions of India offer a vivid backdrop to a smart and striking work of romantic suspense. Fans of Marion Chesney will especially enjoy her novels."
Booklist "Top 10 Romance Fiction of the Year 2017"-- "Booklist, starred review" (7/1/2017 12:00:00 AM)

"Campbell Allen's tale simmers with sweet romance, historical detail, and a dose of mystery."-- "Publishers Weekly" (4/3/2017 12:00:00 AM)

"Fantastic novel with an intriguing plot, strong female characters, and an exotic setting....Beautiful Regency romance...set against a colorful British-occupied India backdrop. The change in setting is refreshing and adds additional layers of interest and intrigue."-- "Compass Book Ratings" (8/1/2017 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Nancy Campbell Allen is the author of twelve novels, which span genres from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. She has been a speaker at numerous writing conferences and events. She has a degree in Elementary Education and is the mother of three children.