I was happy to be invited to read an ARC of this book as I’ve very much enjoyed Shana Galen's other books. The story takes place in England and France at the time of the French Revolution, and brings back fond memories of reading a Tale of Two Cities. I stayed up very late reading this book because I could not go to sleep and leave Gabrielle and Ramsey in peril. The heroine Gabrielle, Lady McCullough is the widow of a friend of Ramsey, Lord Sedgwick who is both more and less than one would imagine. They meet again while they are both attempting to steal a famous jewel, Gabrielle to pay off her husbands debts and Ramsey to satisfy the demands of his blackmailer. The story is a lovely amalgam of daring rescues, perilous times, passion, betrayals and of course true love. I do hope that there will be a story for Alex Martin as well.

I received a copy of this title from the publisher for an honest review. This was a 4 1/3 stars book for me and stood out as different from a lot of historical romances published recently. Ms. Galen has penned a title that is no mere wallpaper historical, but provides the reader with fascinating tidbits about the French Revolution. Paris is gritty and the fear and paranoia of the time are clearly depicted giving the reader a glimpse into the madness that was Revolutionary Paris. Forced into thievery to help pay for her deceased husband's gaming debts, Gabrielle is frustrated to come across Ramsey, Lord Sedgwick attempting to steal the same necklace. He manages to get the best of her, but not before they share a scorching kiss that reminds both of them of a previous encounter prior to her marriage to Ramsey's friend. Ramsey is indebted to a Madame who knows his most dangerous secret that would ruin not only him, but his whole family. Forced to do her bidding, he finds himself in a cycle of requests the culminates in a demand to unmask the Scarlet Pimpernel, the notorious Englishman who has developed a network to help French aristocrats avoid Madame Guillotine. Aware of Gabrielle's unique skills, the Scarlet Pimpernel recruits her to help an aristocratic woman and her young child escape certain death by stealing a valuable bracelet, Le Saphir Blanc to bribe a key official and secure their release. On the way to France, Gabrielle meets up with Ramsey and despite her protests, they begin to travel together. He hopes to uncover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel knowing he will be forced to betray Gabrielle; his struggle with the conflict between their goals features throughout the rest of the story. Ramsey admires Gabrielle and her determination to succeed in her mission; the reader sees his transformation and realization that sometimes events bigger than yourself are what matter. I enjoyed Gabrielle and her strength when confronted with unexpected challenges and the horrors of Revolutionary France. I felt the action overshadowed the romance a little, but overall, there was a good mix of romance and adventure. Strong secondary characters abound in both Paris and London and I can't wait to see who is featured in the next title.

Book Info
Kindle Edition
Expected publication: August 22nd 2017 by Loveswept
ASIN B01N69VBC1
Edition Language English
Other Editions None found
Source:Netgalley EARC

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BOOK BLURB


Two morally compromised souls wage a battle of wits—and seduction—against the backdrop of the French Revolution in this thrilling romance from bestselling author Shana Galen.

After her late husband leaves her in debt to some dangerous people, Lady Gabrielle McCullough is forced to become a thief. In the intervening years, her skills have not gone unnoticed. After being recruited by the Scarlet Pimpernel, the mysterious do-gooder spiriting aristocrats out of revolutionary France, Gabrielle crosses the Channel for the most daring mission of her life. Accompanying her is the Earl of Sedgwick, a thief in his own right and an enticingly masculine presence. The man is not to be trusted—nor is Gabrielle’s body when he’s near.

Ramsey Barnes would not say he is an honorable man. His whole life has been based on a lie; why change now? Although it pains him to deceive the tantalizing Gabrielle, he’s working toward an altogether different objective: unmasking the Scarlet Pimpernel. If Ramsey fails, his blackmailer will ruin him. But when Ramsey’s confronted with the carnage of the Reign of Terror, he seeks refuge in Gabrielle’s heated embrace. Now he faces a terrible choice: betray the woman who’s stolen his heart—or risk losing everything.

This standalone novel includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.

My Thoughts


Prepare to be swept into a time in history that very easily stands out as horrific to many yet still full of hope, laughter and love for others.

Lady Gabrielle was unlucky enough to find herself at the mercy of her husbands creditors, the most insistent of which blackmails her into thievery for indiscretions before her marriage that will be exposed to the ton causing her good name to be ruined.

Finding herself then coming to the attention of none other than the famed Scarlet Pimpernel and for him Gabrielle agrees to undertake a different kind of mission, one that could possibly cost her life if she is caught.

Ramsey also has found himself at the end of his rope, being blackmailed by a vile woman whose swore the knowledge she has in her possession would be released publicly if he did not do her bidding. Knowledge that would cause his estate refiners and everyone else dependent on him to follow him into penury if not into gaol.

The setting for this couples romance could not be more stark but also could not be denied as Gabrielle and Ramsey at long last allow their love for each other to come to fruition as it should have many years ago prior to her marrying his best friend.

The French Revolution, also known as the Reign of Terror, comes to vivid life in the pages of this book. Just as vivid a setting, and much more welcoming, as revolutionary France the drawing and ball rooms of war free London were brilliantly portrayed as seen through Ramsey and Gabrielle’s eyes as well.

Although as with many historical romance tales both the setting and the characters were pretty standard, even predictable in nature, but for me the spirited Gabrielle and the slightly disputable Ramsey still managed to capture the essence of what a heroine and hero should be.

[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]


On every book read as soon as it is done and written up for review it is posted on Goodreads and Netgalley, once released then posted on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles as well.

Traitor in Her Arms is the first book in The Scarlet Chronicles series by Shana Galen.

Lady Gabrielle McCullough is a widow and her late husband has left her up to her ears in debt. His creditors are hounding her, one in particular who has threatened that if she doesn't pay up, he'll kidnap her sell her to a brothel. Her only option of repaying her debts is to become a thief, selling things she steals from the wealthy people whose balls she attends. She's very good at what she does, so much so that she comes under the attention of none other than the Scarlet Pimpernel. Keeping his identity secret he approaches Gabrielle and asks her to help him free an imprisoned women and her daughter in France. The only way to do that is to give one of her jailers a precious jewelled bracelet, one that Gabrielle has to steal. Unfortunately it is in an office in France, so if she agrees to do the mission, she will need to travel to there. She needs to get out of England for a while, and although knowing it's dangerous in France for any aristocrat, she knows she must help the poor woman and her child. Kill two birds with one stone as it were.

Ramsey Barnes has a secret, one that could ruin him and his family if it were to come out. He is being blackmailed and his blackmailer has one last thing for him to do before she will hand over evidence of his secret. He has to go to France to discover the identity of the Scarlet Pimpernel. It's something Ramsey doesn't want to do, how can he give up the identity of the man who is saving countless English people being wrongly persecuted in France. People thrown into prisons, or physically ripped apart by mobs of the French. If he doesn't, his family will be ruined, all because of something he did, and he knows he can't let that happen. His conscience will have to take a back seat, at least for now.

He knows Gabrielle from days of old when they shared a kiss before she married his best friend. He also knows her very recently from when they both attempted to steal the same necklace. Her to sell for the money, him to keep his blackmailer happy.

Circumstance finds them both on the same ship to France, and when Ramsey learns (unknown to Gabrielle) that she is on a mission for the Scarlet Pimpernel, he knows if he keeps close to her he will find the man's identity. At the same time, he can help her steal the jewellery that the jailer wants. It's a win win situation for them both. Not so much for the Pimpernel if indeed Ramsey finds out who he is and informs his blackmailer.

What follows is an intriguing and captivating account of the couples' endeavours to achieve their goals. Of course the more time they spend together, the more their attraction to each other grows, but built on Ramsey's lies, can anything come of their feelings? There are certainly some passionate scenes between them, but passion without being able to trust does not lead to a true love match!

What I really enjoyed about this story is that it was much more than just a romance. There was the excitement of the theft, the concern about Ramsey doing the right thing. The edge of your seat suspense at times when our couple is fleeing for their freedom. Also there is the absolute horror when you read about the mobs literally tearing people apart, limb from limb when they are caught trying to escape from France. The author paints an all too vivid picture of it all. It definitely makes your understand the Scarlet Pimpernel's need to help all the people that he can. This is the first of what I am sure is going to be a fabulous series of stories which I am definitely going to be reading.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.

Shana nailed it with this book. The suspense, intrigue and passion were amazing! Must read.

This review does not contain any spoilers.
The story opens in London, during the time of the Scarlet Pimpernel and his daring exploits in saving French emigre's from the guillotine.
Our two main characters are Gabrielle, Lady McCollough and Ramsey, Lord Sedgwick.
Our heroine and anti-hero meet at a ball, which would be typical in a Regency romance, except for two tiny facts--they meet in the hostesses bedroom, and they are both trying to steal a very valuable necklace!
The story continues on a boat to France, with Gabrielle spying FOR the Scarlet Pimpernel, and Ramsey spying to unmask the Pimpernel's identity, all while fighting their attraction to each other.
Questions abound;
Why do two aristocrats need to resort to thievery?
Will Lord Sedgwick find his inner hero before Gabrielle is introduced to Madame Guillotine?
Come along with Ms. Galen as she takes us on a thrill ride of adventure, intrigue and romance in Traitor in Her Arms.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review (less)

This is an adventure story. This is a mystery story. This is a story about the French Revolution and the anger and violence which filled the streets of Paris. This is so much more than a romance. But underneath it all, it is a romance.
Gabrielle is a young and beautiful widow. She is making every attempt to pay the debts of her late husband. He was a gambler who lost so much money she has turned to theft to try and pay off the large number of debts. One of the men to whom her late husband owed money is willing to sell her to a brothel because she has not paid what he is owed. Because of different circumstances, she finds herself escaping from Britain to run to Paris into the middle of a bloody revolution. She has taken on a task for The Scarlet Pimpernel. If she can steal a certain priceless bracelet she will be able to buy the freedom of a young woman and her infant daughter. Without the bracelet, the young woman and her infant daughter will die.
Ramsey is the Earl of Sedgwick. Ramsey is a thief. Ramsey is being blackmailed by a despicable woman who enjoys degrading everyone who comes near her. She has a network of people who will do her bidding no matter what she asks. She has ordered Ramsey to Paris to find out the true name of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Ramsey is certain she will sell that information to people in France who want the Pimpernel dead. But, he must do as she asks because if he does not, he will lose everything. He is responsible for his family, his estate and a village.
Gabrielle and Ramsey are in the midst of Paris and trying to avoid being killed and at the same time find the priceless bracelet. She has no idea that Ramsey is hoping that the bracelet will lead him to the Pimpernel's real name.
Both Gabrielle and Ramsey are less than perfect people. Their relationship goes back to a time before she married. There was a strong attraction between them but Gabrielle chose the man who would end up ruining her life with his gambling.
At times it was difficult to really like Ramsey. But, no matter what the danger, he continually tries to protect her and keep her safe.
Each of them had a difficult time being honest about anything. Their life histories did not include a great number of opportunities for being straight forward with the people in their lives.
During the time the two are in Paris, the sense of danger felt like an important character in the story. At times that danger felt almost oppressive. Ms Galen has shown us a world that must have been terror filled for everyone who was there.
The character development is up to Ms Galen's normal standard. The reader gets to know and understand why Gabrielle and Ramsey behave as they do. Secondary characters are well constructed. Everyone plays a part in creating the atmosphere of the story. The villains are many and each of them more disgusting than the next. There are many good people who want to do good too. The good people help move the story forward and add a great deal to the depth of the story.
The plot is fast moving and the action holds the reader's interest.
Ms Galen has created a good story.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.

Traitor in Her Arms by Shana Galen is a perfect combination of history, romance and intrigue. The novel takes place in France during the height of the French Revolution. Ms. Galen’s rich descriptive voice perfectly conveys the bloody conflict between the aristocrats and the revolutionaries and the overwhelming sense of uncertainty during this time period. The setting, suspenseful plot, and the passion and conflict between the hero and heroine captivated me.
Lady Gabrielle McCullough’s husband died and she inherited his gambling debts. She has resorted to stealing jewelry and objects d’art to keep his creditors at bay. Gabrielle attends a ball given by the Duke of Beaumont with the intent to steal an expensive necklace. Gabrielle is startled by a familiar voice as she opens the jewelry box; her husband’s friend the Earl of Sedgwick is also in the Duchesses’ bedroom! Sedgwick has the necklace! The chemistry between the couple is apparent from this meeting and the passionate kiss they share in the hallway.
Gabrielle is approached by a man, that she assumes is the famous Scarlett Pimpernel, who asks her to join his league. This man is aware of her secret skill set and asks her to steal a bracelet and assist the Comtesse de Tonnerre and her child out of France. Gabrielle meets with Comte de Tonnerre and decides to accept the dangerous mission. Sedgwick is being blackmailed and has been tasked with uncovering the identity of the Scarlett Pimpernel. I loved these scenes in as they showed Gabrielle’s bravery and compassion and Sedgwick’s desire to keep his family safe.
Gabrielle is accosted by Mr. Pin, one of her late husband’s creditors, as she boards a ship destined for France. Sedgwick grabs Gabrielle and they board the ship; he lifts the gangplank and sends Mr. Pin into the water. Sedgwick announces to Gabrielle that they are travelling to Paris together. The scenes by the entry gate to the city of Paris were superbly written; each word added to the suspense and drama as Gabrielle and Sedgwick waited in line to enter the city. I could see the crowds, hear the screams and feel the danger. The suspense intensifies in the novel as Sedgwick accompanies Gabrielle to a ball at a cemetery and Gabrielle’s mission begins.
I enjoy Ms. Galen’s novels because of the elements of suspense and intrigue that she weaves into each story. Traitor in Her Arms is the most complex novel she has written. Just when I thought Gabrielle was safe; an expected obstacle was introduced into the storyline. It was challenging to determine who the traitors were in the story as not one character‘s true identity or motives were apparent. Gabrielle and Sedgwick learned to trust each other during this chilling cat and mouse game with the French soldiers. The novel’s ending is superbly written and kept me reading past my bedtime. I couldn’t put the book down!
If you are looking for a passionate, suspenseful historical novel—this is the book for you!

Title and author: Traitor in Her Arms by Shana Galen
Series: The Scarlet Chronicles – Book 1
Publisher: Random House - Loveswept
Releases: August 22, 2017
Purchase: http://tinyurl.com/ycbcst3w
Genre: Historical
Author website: http://shanagalen.com/
Rating: 4.5 Stars

When a book can expertly interweave actual facts into a fictional love story, I am always delighted when the result has me feeling as though I am witnessing history in the making. The horrific reality of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution is brought to life in such a way that I had to look up this historical period, and I discovered Shana Galen had definitely done much research in making her book come across as accurate. Though filled with frightening episodes at times, there are also moments where emotions take over a scene and cause a connection to be formed with the characters. From start to finish, I was constantly anticipating the next risky escapade. TRAITOR IN HER ARMS is an adventurous story of secret activities and unexpected romance.

Her decision of whom to marry turned out to not be the best choice, as Lady Gabrielle McCullough now owes much more money than was left by her deceased husband. To pay off those who are determined to collect what is due them, she has turned to thievery and has become quite adept. No one has caught Gabrielle until a man who was friends with her husband attempts to steal a particular item at the exact same time. Though he is the Earl of Sedgwick, Ramsey Barnes hides many secrets and she feels he cannot be relied upon.

It also seems another man has learned about her being a thief, because the legendary person called the Scarlet Pimpernel asks Gabrielle to assist in saving innocent French citizens from being killed. To carry out this request, she agrees to go from England to France and carry out a dangerous assignment. Gabrielle is shocked when she learns Ramsey is also going to Paris, as he has his own task to accomplish. As they both try to make sure their goals are achieved, the many tricky situations they have to face are made even more complicated when their hearts become involved.

Uncertainties keep TRAITOR IN HER ARMS suspenseful, while genuine emotions make the novel engaging. Gabrielle and Ramsey have found themselves in a challenging predicament, and both must make several very difficult choices. Though she has her own troubles, saving someone else is important to her. I really admired her determination to help others, even when the cost to her could be great. The quandaries in Ramsey’s life just keep mounting, and I worried over whether what he chooses to do would be the best for everyone. He is living with a terrible secret, and I had no idea what he would finally think is his best course of action. The honest emotions expressed by Ramsey and Gabrielle are certainly touching, and they convey their longing for one another with lots of passionate desire.

The way in which Shana Galen presents her compelling storyline made me believe the scenes could really have happened. During the Reign of Terror in France, many individuals were persecuted without a valid reason, and the author had me experiencing this fact through skilled writing. Numerous secondary characters play crucial roles in the book, and since some of these people did in fact live, the story seems even more realistic. I am eager to learn how the Scarlet Pimpernel will be included in the next installment of The Scarlet Chronicles series.

I voluntarily reviewed the book from the publisher via NetGalley, and all comments are my honest opinion

This book is set during the Reign of Terror in France and features Gabrielle, Viscountess McCullough and Ramsey, Earl of Sedgwick. Gabrielle and Ramsey have a history, before she married her husband, she was attracted to Ramsey. Ramsey was also attracted to her, but for reasons unknown to the reader, he let her go and watched as she married his best friend George, Viscount McCullough.

When George died and Gabrielle learned the extent of his debt, she turned thief to save herself and as it turns out, she is extremely good at it. She is reunited with Ramsey when they both are intent on stealing the same necklace. Unfortunately, Gabrielle is bested by Ramsey, who needs the necklace for his own reasons. Desperate, Gabrielle agrees to a dangerous plan presented to her by the Scarlet Pimpernel. She will go to France, steal a priceless bracelet and use it to negotiate the release of a condemned Aristocrat and her daughter.

Ramsey has secrets, secrets so great that if revealed will mean certain death. He had hoped the necklace would finally release him from his blackmailer, but she now demands that he perform a final task. Venture to France and uncover the name of the Scarlet Pimpernel. She assures him that if he succeeds, he will be free from her forever, fail and she will ruin him.

By chance, Ramsey and Gabrielle meet on the crossing to France, he is convinced she is working for the Scarlet Pimpernel and will use her to complete his mission. Gabrielle does not trust Ramsey, but after they arrive in France and she witnesses the horrors of the "terror" firsthand, she admits that she feels safer with Ramsey than she does on her own.

This book is amazing and while I agree with other reviewers that it is not "romantic", given the setting that is just not possible, but it definitely has a powerful romance. The historic details of the terror are graphic and at times disturbing, I was appalled and fascinated at the same time, more than once I was reduced to tears and wondered what could drive a person to the extremes described in this book.

The book is a well written, action packed, nail biting, on the edge of your seat, page turner from the first page and doesn't let you out of it's grip until the final word. It is steamier than I recall Ms. Galen's previous books to be (no complaints here), but the love scenes are well placed and well done, the secondary characters contribute to the story, but never over shadow the story of Gabrielle and Ramsey.

I am highly recommend this book and look forward to the next installment!

Shana Galen has written another excellent historical romance full of romance, humor and action. Lady Gabrielle was left in debt when her husband passed away and she has been forced turn to stealing to survive. She finds herself recruited by the Scarlet Pimpernel on a dangerous mission to France. Ramsey, Earl of Sedgwick, is determined to accompany her, for reasons of his own. They are drawn to each other, but also at odds because of their separate agendas. This was a fantastic, enjoyable book and I look forward to reading others by this author.

I found this story to be very intense in places, but It did not take anything away from the whole tale. It has everything, lies, betrayal, danger, intrigue, death but also has love, friendship and laughter. Some descriptions are frightening but the writing is excellent and propels you along, smoothly, even paced and answers your questions but one. Gabriella and Ramsey have cared for each other from the beginning, but didn't admit it to each other. I could not put this down until I had finished it. I highly recommend this, I think it is worth the time to read. I received this from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed.

This is a wonderfully complex, compelling book that will keep you up reading it. I will admit that I have always liked the Scarlet Pimpernel story so I enjoyed his appearance in this book. This story contains a wonderful romance, danger, blackmail and accurate history.

Lady Gabrielle McCullough has become a thief to pay her late husband’s debts to some unsavory creditors. Ramsey Barnes, Earl of Sedgwick, is living a lie and will do anything to protect his secret. Gabrielle’s late husband was Ramsey’s friend so they are well acquainted.

While attending a ball, Gabrielle is tricked into entering a room and meets, in darkness, a man she believes to be the Scarlet Pimpernel. He wants her for a mission to rescue a mother and child from Paris. Meanwhile, the women who knows Ramsey’s secret is blackmailing him to discover the Scarlet Pimpernel’s secret. Meeting each other on the ship to France, he insists they travel to Paris together.

Paris is where the story really happens and it is too good for me to spoil. I highly recommend this book. Thanks to Shana Galen and the publisher for the ARC. No one has asked me to write a favorable review, but I loved it!

Good storyline with well defined characters kept my interest from page to page.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

The hero and heroine (Ramsey and Gabrielle) are both flawed characters who find redemption in each other. Some secret agent intrigue, some French Revolution stuff, lots of passion and a very steamy love scene...what's not to like?!

A French Revolution Adventure.
This was an interesting addition to the Scarlet Pimpernel story written by Baroness Orczy in 1905. Whilst the Scarlet Pimpernel only features towards the beginning and end of this story, his trusty lieutenants (Sir Andrew Ffoulkes, Lord Anthony Dewhurst and Lord Hastings) are cleverly woven into the fabric of this adventure along with notes featuring a scarlet flower. Neither Ramsay, Earl of Sedgwick nor Gabrielle, Viscountess McCullough are the most upright of characters, seeing that they are both secret thieves but they work together in order to pull off a jewellery heist (from under Robespierre's nose) and save some innocent lives. I loved the story and I could see it making a great film. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.

This is a well written, passionate, sometimes difficult to read story set during the Paris Reign of Terror of the French Revolution. It's an interesting take on the Scarlet Pimpernel, the "Robin Hood" of rescuing nobility out of Paris from under the judgment of the guillotine.

Viscountess Gabrielle McCullough, widow of Ramsey's best friend George, and Lord Ramsey Barnes, Earl of Sedgwick, meet once again in the most unexpected place, the bedroom of a duchess during a ball. Both thieves after the same necklace, even if they hold titles. Gabrielle is a widow in a great deal of debt thanks to her late husband's gambling and Ramsey is being blackmailed! Oh the things one will do when desperate! And so we begin a twisted tale of rescue, redemption and reward with the violence of Paris in the mix. I now know why I've avoided reading this period in history. The Reign of Terror was truly horrible and difficult to read for me. BUT I adored the telling of Gabrielle's bravery, Ramsey's awakening to his true character even if it surprises him and the intricate maze of rescues. This clues you into Ramsey: "He really did want to leave her alone. Forever. Every time they crossed paths he became more and more entangled. He didn't know why. It wasn't as though she was charming or pleasant. But she was beautiful and seductive as hell. Damn it!" Chapter 7

Shana tells a very believable tale of the legend of the Scarlet Pimpernel and who two desperate individuals help others even more disparate than themselves. Thank you for the ARC of this fabulous story!

“They seek him here, they seek him there….that damned elusive Pimpernel”. We all know the exciting tale of the Scarlet Pimpernel and when you mix in the story of Ramsey and Gabrielle you have this explosive story of intrigue, suspense, action, romance, devotion and love. The descriptions are so vivid (and sometimes horrifying) that you feel you are right there with Ramsey and Gabrielle. Their love story is beautiful and romantic. Honestly, I could have read even more of their story it was so good.

Who will the Pimpernel choose next?

What a ride? This book will take you on a rollercoaster. The characters and storyline are stimulating...with high energy and intrigue. Great read!

Yes, the portrayal of the legend was amazing, but it was the romance that drew me in! We know that love conquers all, but the redemption of our two lovers is so much more than a happily ever after. Both Ramsey and Gabrielle are all that is good doing all that is wrong. Nice twist on the bad boy trope! The adventures they go through from the first jewelry theft to the French Revolution send us on a see-saw ride until the characters finally find the balance in the life they are seeking. BTW, the historical content on the Revolution was so powerful!