A beautiful cover and a beautiful story about grief, loss, forgiveness and love. This is the second book in the series with a new mystery for The Imposters to solve. It’s nearly Christmas and a child has been kidnapped. Marigold, Merritt, Gemma, Graham and Yates are all on hand for this case. This story has a heavier tone than the first, but is well written with characters and a story I won’t soon forget.

I received an advanced copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.

The Codebreakers has been my all time favorite Roseanna M. White series, but I think it is going to have to move over and make room for The Imposters. I have so enjoyed reading the first two books about the lovable, quirky characters that make up the investigation team known as The Imposters. This second book in the series has two very interesting storylines. The first is, of course, the case that they are currently investigating, a kidnapping case involving a ten-year-old boy, a case of mistaken identity. The second, a sad yet poignant story of a loving couple whom circumstances have driven apart, a story of unforgiveness, and a story of turning one's face away from God. The saddest part of the advanced reader copy I received was the page that said that the final book of this series will be available in November of this year. I will miss these characters and am sad to see the series end with the next book. I certainly hope they will make cameo appearances in some of White's future novels. As always with White's books, A Noble Scheme is well thought out. Information in this book and in its connections to the first one is carefully woven together and released at just the right moment. Much to my satisfaction, the ending was not rushed, the author was generous with the time and space she allowed for bringing the story to a meaningful conclusion. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Noble Scheme from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

I liked this faith based historical mystery. It’s set in 1909 England and has a group of 5 friends/relatives that together form The Imposters, a discreet investigative group.

I felt there were two parts of this read that have an intertwining theme.

The first part is the case the Imposters are working on pro bono. It’s a kidnapped child and a case of mistaken identity. The book is set at Christmastime. The Imposters follow the trail that goes from a fancy house party in the countryside to an abandoned mill.

The second part of this book is the relationship between two of the Imposters team, Gemma and Graham. We find out why they are at odds and the sad road that got them there.

The faith based portion of this book makes for a good discussion. When tragic things happen, how do we handle that within our own faith? And how do we treat those involved as well as how do we react?

So as you can see, this is more than just a historical mystery. It’s definitely thought provoking within the parameters of spirituality. Oh, and the mystery itself it quite interesting too.

Such an amazingly sweet, yet painful story.
This book has so much going on.
There is the mystery of a young boy being kidnapped for a ransom.
There is the deep animosity between two of the main characters, Graham and Gemma. I enjoyed getting to know their backstory
I especially loved the themes of forgiveness and second chances.
Yes, Gemma and Graham had faced some amazingly difficult things in the past. Somehow, they must learn how to forgive each other, themselves, and God. And find the strength, in Him, to move on.
This lesson is relevant to all of us, in some degree or other.

The author delivers these powerful themes in a story filled with action, danger, mystery and more. It all weaves together to give us just an absolutely beautiful story.
I highly recommend this one!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

I had heard amazing things about Roseanna's books from other authors and readers, but I've never read her books myself. After reading A Noble Scheme I can confidently say that Roseanna is a gifted writer.

Gifted in writing in a way that presents people as themselves. The complexity of human nature and how nothing is every as clear as we would sometimes like it to be. We all have many sides to ourselves that we navigate on a daily basis and so too do her characters.

In A Noble Scheme, Gemma and Graham are members of a special group in early 1900's London (they call themselves The Imposters) that take on special investigations for the elite class. But this investigation hits home for the team in ways that no one is quite ready for.

A young boy has been kidnapped and the team must race against the clock to not only find out who is behind the kidnapping, but return the boy to his family as well. If only they can find out why he was taken and by whom.

Gemma and Graham are two of the investigators on the team, with their own sordid history to work through. Broken hearts and estrangement are mingled with the main story of the investigation. The journey of these two characters was uplifting and another important reminder that forgiveness unburdens our hearts and minds. We are reminded throughout our experiences here that things do not happen to use haphazardly or for no reason. There is always a bigger plan at work and we must have faith and remember that.

Layering in loss and grief from multiple parties through the unfolding of this investigation, this is a story that will remind you to cherish what you have and always hold it tight. A crescendo and finale to this one I wasn't expecting at all, but provided even more depth to all of the characters in their multi-faceted world.

A Nobel Scheme
The Imposters #2
By Roseanna M. White


This is an emotionally charged read, and it answers some questions from book one - A Beautiful Disguise. In the first book, Gemma Parks and Graham Wharton have something between them, something that Gemma refuses to forgive him for or even to speak to him about. Well, we finally find out what it was that broke them.

When a young boy is mistaken for his wealthy cousin and kidnapped, the Imposters can't say no to this case. But to solve this case, Gemma and Graham must work together to gather clues and evidence with little time to do so. Can Gemma put aside her anger long enough to do what must be done? While Graham uses his architectural skills to try to find where Sidney could be hidden away, he hopes working with Gemma will soften her heart.

But the more Gemma, Graham, and the rest of the Imposters discover the more questions they are left with. What is the motivation behind the kidnapping? And can they find Sidney before time runs out and something worse happens?

This book delves into broken hearts and the powerful influence grief can play in and on a person's life. How we deal with grief is indeed unique to an individual. Everyone deals with it differently as we see played out in this excellent addition to The Imposters series. There was a particular line that stood out to me as I read this book, "Faithless is faithless," and when it was used, it was interesting as it pertained to two different instances and was true to both.

Though this is the second book in the series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone title. There are references to incidents in the previous book, but nothing that would detract from the enjoyment of this book. I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of well-written, fully-developed characters, second chances, and historical fiction.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

I have been anticipating this book for months. I couldn’t wait to get the backstory for Gemma and Graham. It did not disappoint! It’s a doozy of a story and it made this book so so good. The case the Imposters are working on in this book is also a fantastic mystery and I devoured this one to get all the details. I could not put this one down! What a phenomenal read with a perfect ending. Absolutely loved this one!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and also preordered my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

I don’t think I have the adequate words to describe how deeply inspired and emotionally touched I am by this amazing book! Roseanna M. White is without doubt one of my favorite authors, and I think this is one of her best stories yet!
Since I read the first book of “The Imposters" Series, I’ve been charmed by each one of the characters that compose this unique Detective Secret Agency. The abilities with which each member contributes to making the Agency so efficient is so creative. And the way they have each other’s back is so endearing! More than a team, they’re family! This is Gemma and Graham’s book, and since the first book I’ve been intrigued as to what important issue may have happened between them to create such a deep rift in their relationship, especially from Gemma against Graham. This is a story that has the tropes of second chance and enemies to lovers, among others. Practically at the middle of the book you get the complete idea of what really happened, and my heart was so crushed. This book deals with deeper issues than most of Roseanna’s books, and I loved the way she dealt with these heartbreaking realistic topics. I understood Gemma’s anger toward Graham and Graham’s faithlessness. How can you fix a wound so deep? Only God can. And sometimes in the least expected ways. I loved how the author managed to tie everything up, when it all seemed an unsurmountable mountain. There’s a beautiful faith inspired message of forgiveness, healing, trusting God in the most difficult circumstances, and redemption. It really inspired me and made me reflect on how God always has our back, even when to the human eyes it may seem the absolute contrary: that He has abandoned us, or doesn’t really care for our happiness. The way things unfolded until the end was deeply touching and I loved how the story ended. I shed my tears more than once, but sighed in happiness or endearment in many others. It amazes me how the author can manage to blend some light humor in a book that carries such deep emotions as are grief, pain and loss. The light humor, she infuses it mostly through Yates, a secondary character but leader of the Imposters, who I’m hoping will have his own amazing story in the next book. I absolutely love Yates! I think he is going to be my favorite of the series!
The historical detail, the scenery also fascinated me. I have to say I’m an architect and that made me relate closely to Graham: I loved his ability to see everything in form of space and architectural details. I could imagine him perfectly poring over his blueprint designs. And I loved his huge heart and loyalty to Gemma too. Gemma also was a great character and I admired her resilience, and how she grew along the story too: in compassion, understanding, and ultimately, forgiving. Both their griefs, different yet the same, felt so realistic that I felt it was my grief too. The author is a master of describing the characters emotions and I experienced them in this book deeply. Add to the mix, a mystery, a kidnapped child, some devious villains, and lots of intrigue and suspense, that I assure you won’t be able to put it down very easily! And the romance, even if at odds for a great time, was superb! Swooning!
This is one of my favorite stories of Roseanna M. White. Very highly recommend it! You won't regret it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

A Noble Scheme is, in my opinion, one of Roseanna M. White’s best & most heartfelt novels to date. The immediately-engaging writing voice, the richly woven layers, the meaningful faith discussions, and the embraceable characters – as well as the Imposters’ high-stakes case of child kidnapping – kept me completely engrossed from beginning to end.

Graham is a tragic character in many ways, at least as our story moves toward its redemptive ending. I was already drawn to him from our first meeting but I fell completely for him as the author peels back the veil on his heartbreak, his very relatable faith struggles, and his loyal heart. As for Gemma, she grew on me a lot in A Noble Scheme, especially as I began to learn more about what she’s been through and could see more of the winsome personality that explains why she and Marigold are such dear friends. Because while I liked her relationship with Marigold in A Beautiful Disguise, I couldn’t understand her harsh rudeness toward Graham. One thing I did know was that Graham and Gemma had a history and that the deep rift between them carried with it an even deeper pain. But I would have never guessed just what that history entailed, and I was unprepared for how powerful and emotional and achingly beautiful the ‘rest of their story’ would be. White doesn’t shy away from their pain or negate its validity. Instead, she wraps it up with heaping doses of grace, mercy, understanding, and a glimpse into the heart of God.

Bottom Line: A Noble Scheme by Roseanna M. White is compelling and poignant, immersing you right away in a story that will grab hold of your heart and not let go. Fair warning, your emotions will be put through the wringer as White tenderly explores the rawness of grief and loss, broken relationships, and anger at God and knits it all together into a beautiful hope-filled, grace-filled masterpiece. But she also gives her readers breathing space by skillfully placing moments of humor (particularly when Yates is involved) and intrigue, not to mention the swoony romance that simmers to perfection. I loved that we got so much great page time with Marigold, Yates, and Merritt too, and I am positively giddy for Yates’ story next! (Don’t tell the others but I think he’s my favorite lol)

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I absolutely loved this book! I have been wanting to know Gemma and Graham's story since the first book of this series and could hardly wait for this book to come out! There were so many twists and turns and surprises, and I found myself really caring about so many of the characters. Even secondary and tertiary ones were fully developed and tugged on my heartstrings! I loved how Lady Marigold, her brother, and her husband were such big parts of the story because I love them from the last book. I especially liked that some of this story was told from her brother Yates' POV, and I am so excited to read his story sometime in the future! What sets this story apart from other stories and makes it great is the richness and depth of the theme of forgiveness that is woven throughout it, not only in the main storyline but in a number of side plots as well. It is masterfully done and will stay with me for a long time to come!

🐥🐥🐥🐥/5

I always love everything @roseannamwhite writes, and some of her books just hit me in the feels more than others. The Noble Scheme being one of the more emotionally invested ones for me.

After the first book in the series, I was so intrigued by Gemma and Graham and what happened in their past to make them so unhappy and angry at each other all the time. And Miss White gave us a shocking answer to that, but also a completely sad and heartbreaking story for us to experience with them.

I related to both of these characters individually in a few ways, and while I didn’t relate to their specific story and tragedy, I hurt with them. I sobbed and ached with them throughout this whole book, in some chapters more than others. It was beautifully written and I feel like I both grieved, healed, and reconnected with God just as the characters did.

The mystery in this book was just as exciting as it always is when it comes to our lovely team of The Imposters, and I enjoyed seeing them all again in their various journeys of life. And I’m now even a bit more excited for Yates’ story next than I originally thought I would be.

If you enjoy historical fiction novels with emotionally deep romances, mystery and suspense, raw and heartfelt moments, a lovely gang of friends/family, history and architecture, strong relationships, character development and just good old fashioned sleuthing then you need to pick up this series of interconnected standalones!

*thank you @bethanyhousefiction and @roseannamwhite for my copy in exchange for an honest review*

“Words were wily things-but they were miraculous too.”

What a poignant, achingly tender second chance love story. Warning, have the tissues handy because this book will make you cry. It’s hard to put into words how much A Noble Scheme touched my heart. It has to be one of my favorite Roseanna M. White books and is a powerful story of loss, grief, forgiveness, and suspense.

After reading the first book in the series, I was intrigued by what caused the rift between Gemma and Graham. The shocking truth behind their estrangement is revealed about half way through. It was a stunning revelation, but one that had been building throughout. Suddenly, Gemma’s hatred and Graham’s lost faith in God made sense. It’s a touching story with such deep, profound emotions as two people find their way back to each other. But, there’s also a mystery to be solved, and the Imposters are on the case to find a little boy who’s been kidnapped. It’s a race against time to try to find him before it’s too late.

I loved the careful balance between the sacred emotions of grief and loss with the lighthearted, good humor provided by Yates. I’ve grown to love these characters and this book cemented those feelings even more. I especially loved the way the author captured so many emotions in such a tender way with several characters who experience loss, particularly the loss of a child.

With her characteristic wit, and soul deep characters, Ms. White shares an unforgettable story that’ll stay with me for a long time. It’s definitely a must read for historical romance fans, especially if you enjoy stories with emotional depth, mystery, faith, romance, and a touch of humor. Though part of a series, it can be read as a standalone, however, it’s much more enjoyable if you’ve read the first book in the series. Now I can’t wait for Yates’ story! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

The one thing I thought all through this book was how in the world does Roseanna White keep all these characters and storylines moving together so seamlessly. From circus animals and performers, to disguises, to kidnapping, to societal expectations, to architectural planning, to deep emotions, to a crisis of faith, to wrenching heartbreak, to healing broken relationships, to immense grief and all the while infusing the faith of God to the situations. Whew!
What seems like so so many parts all add together to make a fascinating historical tale. I truly enjoyed it!
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.

"A Noble Scheme" is a beautifully-written book full of emotional depth from author Roseanna M. White! It is book 2 in "The Imposters" trilogy. The characters feel three-dimensional and like real people of that time period. It was wonderful to return to the characters we know and love! And of course to meet and get to know Carissa. The character development was done very well! This author always does such great work creating lovable and original characters who feel real. These characters are always complete with personalities, thoughts, and emotions of their own. The author expresses all of the personal, familial, and emotional difficulties the characters face with sensitivity. This book is beautiful, heartbreaking, heartwarming, enthralling, and inspiring. The author has done amazing work weaving together the lovable characters, riveting plot, emotional depth, and the themes of love, healing, faith, and forgiveness into a book that is undeniably a must read! It was also so beautiful to see Gemma and Graham finding their way back to each other! I loved seeing how careful and gentle Graham is in winning back Gemma's heart. The speed of the plot is perfect, the author's writing style is smooth and sparkling with beauty and emotion, the characters are lovable, and the story feels original and full of heart! I cannot recommend this book and trilogy highly enough! I can't wait to follow Yates' story in book 3! "A Noble Scheme" is definitely a must read! 5 stars!

Thank you very much to the author Roseanna M. White, AustenprosePR, Bethany House, and NetGalley for the wonderful opportunity of being a part of this book tour and for providing me with both physical and digital copies to read and review honestly.

Today marks the highly anticipated release of Roseanna M. White's second book in her The Imposters series, A Noble Scheme. Readers finally get an inside look into the tumultuous and complicated relationship between Gemma and Graham. As both members of the secretive investigative team, their icy relationship's history is slowly unveiled, and it is undeniably a tragic one.  

When the two are forced to collaborate on a kidnapping case, the architect and the reporter must put aside their personal feelings if they're going to have any chance at solving this case.  A Noble Scheme is my personal favorite, largely due to the captivating portrayal of these two central characters. The story delves into the universal experience of losing someone we hold dear. If we're not careful, bitterness and unforgiveness can consume the space in our hearts where love and faith once thrived. This is precisely where Gemma and Graham find themselves. 

White's characters are complex, flawed individuals, desperately trying to make sense of a life-altering tragedy. I believe the experiences they share will deeply resonate with many readers as it did me.The central mystery gradually unfolds, contributing to the suspense and ensuring that the audience remains captivated. The characters and plot created by the author are expertly developed, captivating readers and immersing them further into the narrative. The atmospheric and vividly descriptive setting adds a wonderful layer of depth to the story, enhancing the overall reading experience.What truly stands out is how White consistently directs the reader's attention towards a loving God who can bring good out of any situation. This timely reminder of God's faithfulness and love is something I deeply appreciate. If you're looking for a great read, I can't recommend A Noble Scheme highly enough!

Rating 4.5

"Graham had given up on insisting he wasn’t having a crisis of faith. Given up trying to explain that it wasn’t that he doubted God’s existence—it was that he doubted His goodness. It wasn’t that He questioned for a minute whether or not He was Lord—it was that he couldn’t believe the Lord loved them like James insisted He did. All evidence pointed to the contrary."

Roseanna M White always delivers unique plots with equally enjoyable unique characters.

This book was different for me to the author’s previous stories. There was still the same unique and fun mystery to solve and the intriguing banter between characters, but there was this deep emotional history between Graham and Gemma.

From book one, it was clear that there was a past between Graham and Gemma, and through the first part of the book, the author gave the reader a bit more information and clues, but I found myself impatient to see what happened and once revealed it was the last thing I expected.

The author did a brilliant job of making the reader feel Graham’s hopelessness, and Gemma’s hatred and struggle with unforgiveness.

Be prepared to be swept away on an emotional journey and keep the tissues handy.

Yates was a fun character to learn more about and I am looking forward to his story coming soon.

A Noble Scheme, the second installment of Roseanna M. White’s Edwardian-era private investigator series, The Imposters, delves into Gemma Parks and Graham Wharton’s complex love story and the force that tore them apart. As the Imposters race against the clock to find a kidnapped boy, this estranged couple must work together to succeed, but will their past jeopardize their mission?

"Perhaps their hearts could never truly be mended. But his soul was not beyond the reach of God." ~ Roseanna M. White

A Noble Scheme is an eloquently written story that beautifully explores themes of grief, forgiveness, reconciliation, and faith. While it was not as action-packed as its predecessor, A Beautiful Disguise, this poignant novel took me deeper than expected as it navigated the characters’ journeys through pain and healing, highlighting God’s steadfastness and love. The two scenes that stand out are when Gemma and Graham must confront their traumas head-on and decide whether they can forgive themselves, God, and one another.

Roseanna’s writing style drew me into the era with her vivid descriptions and heartfelt dialogues, teleporting through time. As I read Gemma and Graham’s perspectives, I could feel their emotions bounce off the pages. I also liked how Roseanna shed light on how God often puts us in situations that correlate with what we’re going through. We can’t hide from our pasts or our pain; we can only move forward, and if we do this with His guidance, then God promises to comfort and teach us while healing our wounds.

A Noble Scheme is a compelling read that will resonate with readers emotionally and spiritually. Roseanna M. White’s insightful exploration of how people heal and why we must surrender our hearts to God makes this one of her most impactful storylines. The way she wove these inspiring topics into an eloquent narrative will leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of all who pick up this book!

"She could choose to be nothing but a moth-eaten rag fit only for the rubbish bin . . . or she could let God work her into lace, the holes left by pain and sorrow every bit as beautiful as the gossamer threads of faith and love that held her together." ~ Roseanna M. White

While I’ll be sad to say goodbye to The Imposters, I’m so excited to reach the end of this trilogy and finally read Yates’ full story in An Honorable Deception! (OUT NOVEMBER 2024) I wondered why we were given his perspective when he wasn’t a main character, but Roseanna summed it up perfectly in her Author’s Note, “It’s time for Yates to move to center stage — because, let’s be honest, he’s been wanting to elbow his way into the spotlight all along.”

*Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for providing me with a pre-release copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.*

“A Noble Scheme” is a beautiful, suspenseful, opposites attract, faith-filled, second-chance story that grabbed me quickly and didn’t let go. I loved the first book in this series and love this one even more! Tissues please! I cried at the grief as well as the beauty. Such a meaningful and memorable story.

Gemma and Graham will not be forgotten. They’ve melted their way into my heart. There are so many layers to their relationship, and so many obstacles to overcome—which is what kept me so engaged and eager for them to reconcile. Grief and anger are such strong emotions, and I felt their pain.

There are other elements to the story, such as mystery, loss, and grief, and forgiveness, but Gemma and Graham’s struggles and pained relationship are what kept me glued, surprised, and touched the deepest.

I truly can’t wait for book 3 in this series. It just gets better and better.

First Line: The wedding of the decade.
Series: The Imposters, book 2
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Roseanna M. White
Page Count: 352

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

(There are spoilers at the end of the review. There will be another warning before the spoiler section.)


If you enjoy historical romance with plenty of intrigue, Roseanna M. White’s The Imposters series is for you. A Noble Scheme focuses heavily on grief, loss, and the potential of reconciliation, but is ultimately a story about hope. I’m enjoying that this series is far from typical Edwardian stories — the characters have a pet lion, to tell you just one difference. I’m excited for Yates’ story, and to see these characters again. 3.5/5 stars


SPOILERS AHEAD
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It is revealed about 40% of the way through the story that Graham and Gemma, the main characters, are already married and have been estranged for a year. The reader knows they were romantically involved and something drove a wedge between them, but I don’t think it added anything to the story to keep this kind of secret from the reader. The novel would have started off with so much more depth if we had known early on that they are married — the emotion would have been stronger, the tragedy would have struck deeper….it just would have been more impactful. I think that this choice also robbed the reader of a great deal of the characters’ backstories. By the end of the book, we still know very little about Graham and Gemma as a couple prior to their separation. Their story is based on an event that happened a year prior, which was fundamentally connected to their marriage and love story. I just don’t understand the creative choice to keep this secret from readers for so long.


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Ms. White is one of my favorite authors as she always has intriguing plots and complex characters, and this book met my every expectation. Gemma has some very deep pain and unforgiveness towards Graham that she could not, would not let go of. The journey to healing and forgiveness was beautiful and powerful for not only Gemma but for Graham as well.

The kidnapping of a boy is the reason that brings the Imposters investigative team together; who wouldn’t want a child to be safely reunited with his parents? The case was exciting as the Imposters try to locate Sidney and complications arise. The hidden passages and dilapidated factory were perfect settings and lent an air of suspense and foreboding, making me unable to put down the book. There was no question that sleep would be missed in order to finish it.

I heartily recommend reading this book for its mystery, inspirational message, the Imposters team, and the reconciliation of several relationships. I haven’t read the first book in the series, but I wish I had. Not because of this story, which can certainly be read as a standalone, but I am extremely curious to learn the backstory of the members of the Imposters.

I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher through Austenprose, and NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.