A solid 4. In this second installment of three for The Luna Sisters series, we follow Isabel, the often-overlooked bookish middle sister. But this woman is more wanderer than wallflower. She uses her stealth skills to sneak into the private offices of British nobility and political elite. She encounters trouble in the form of a former military officer Sirius. Liana De la Rosa does not disappoint with this sequel. Filled with romantic entanglements, she adds deepth to this overlooked second sister. After the first novel, and given this book would focus around Isabel's work as a spy, I was expecting a bit more action and conflict than delivered. A times, I felt the book focused too much on the internal battles that the characters were facing. That should not deter anyone from picking up this book however. The Luna Sisters is one of my favorite historical romance series because it informs me about the war for independence in Mexico in the 1860s as they fight the colonizing French leadership. I appreciate the author's attention to historical detail and the strong women she centers her work around. I can't wait to read the third and final book in this series (as well as anything else De la Rosa writes)!

“When a Mexican heiress defies Victorian society to protect her country a British war hero makes it his new mission to protect her…” Isabel and The Rogue by Liana De La Rosa is exactly what I’m searching for in historical romances The way Liana imbues history, familial ties, and love is wonderful. I read Ana María and The Fox this year a fell in love with all three sisters but I felt a special connection to Isabel. Her story did not disappoint. She got everything she deserved and it was such a joy getting to see her character arc. Captain Sirius Dawson our rogue was Isabel’s perfect counterpart. He was kind, gentle, and took the time to get to know Isabel. What I loved about them both is that they both grew to be and accept what made them so special and worth love. I loved the bond between Gabby and Isabel it’s explored more and from sisters who were always pitted against each other while growing up to the bond that they share and nurture now was beautiful to see. If you’re looking to read historical romance look no further than Isabel and The Rogue. 4.5⭐️

"Isabel and the Rogue" by Liana De la Rosa is a captivating historical romance that blends espionage, political intrigue, and undeniable passion. Set against the backdrop of Victorian society and the French Occupation of Mexico, the novel follows the story of Isabel Luna Valdés, a Mexican heiress determined to protect her country, and Captain Sirius Dawson, a rakish British war hero with a penchant for uncovering secrets.

Isabel, often overlooked as the "forgotten" Luna sister, uses her familial connections to the Mexican ambassador in London to discreetly gather British intelligence that could aid Mexico in its struggle against the French. Her unassuming facade hides a sharp mind and a determined spirit. When she crosses paths with Captain Sirius Dawson, a covert agent for the British Home Office, their worlds collide in unexpected ways.

The chemistry between Isabel and Sirius is palpable from the start, and their interactions are infused with tension, witty banter, and a mutual attraction that becomes impossible to ignore. De la Rosa crafts their relationship with depth and authenticity, allowing readers to become invested in the emotional journey of these well-developed characters.

The spy angle adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, as Sirius navigates the complexities of espionage while Isabel becomes entangled in a dangerous game to protect her country. The pacing is well-executed, and the story maintains a balance between romance and suspense. The historical setting is vividly portrayed, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Isabel's determination to safeguard Mexico, even at the cost of her own heart, adds a layer of complexity to her character. The novel explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the clash of loyalties, creating a compelling narrative that goes beyond the conventions of a typical historical romance.

The supporting characters, including the Luna family and a cast of intriguing secondary figures, contribute to the overall richness of the story. The author weaves together a tapestry of relationships and alliances that enhances the narrative and sets the stage for potential future installments.

In summary, "Isabel and the Rogue" is a well-crafted historical romance that combines passion, intrigue, and a strong sense of historical context. Liana De la Rosa's storytelling skill shines through, delivering a compelling love story set against the backdrop of political turmoil and espionage. Fans of historical romance will find much to enjoy in this engaging and heartfelt novel.

I can’t remember which of my favorite authors recommended this one, but I’m so grateful I trusted their judgment. I hadn’t realized this was a series when I started it, but I was able to fall in love with all of the characters and keep up very easily with the story and relationships. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s writing style and her characters. And this is yet another historical romance that taught me a piece of history I had never previously learned, namely the conflict between France and Mexico. Can’t wait to read Gabby’s story next and perhaps go back to Ana Maria’s!

Thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for the ARC.

LOOOOOOVED! Every last word—loved!

Thank you very much to Berkley for the early copy of this! I confess, while I was excited for the first book in this series, I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped. This, however, I could not get enough of it! Isabel and Sirius are wonderful main characters and I absolutely adored their chemistry. Also lowkey obsessed with the fact that the quiet little bookworm has the steamier story by a mile over her older sister.

The spy angle was interesting, even if it didn't really up the stakes for the story very much. It's hard to get pressed about bad news when it took two weeks for the letter to reach England from Mexico, and then another two weeks to send a response back. But I love what it did for the character and relationship development. No notes! And that ending was PERFECT.

I do wish the writing was a little bit stiff, but I guess if it's emulating the 19th century I really can't get mad about it. That said, I am now extra excited for the youngest sister's story because that girlie is bagging herself a duke, even if she hates him now.

Please Berkley gods, take pitty on my poor soul and let me have this physical arc 😭😫 I love them so much your honor!!! I will sell my soul to whoever I need to for Isabel and Sirius to sit in my shelf next to Ana Maria and Gideon 🥺
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5⭐️ 1.5🌶️

I have never felt more like an empty shell of a person after finishing a book as I have with this one. I’ve spent all day starring at the ceiling, unable to do much. I have tried to go back to the other books I was reading and I cannot find anything that comes remotely close to what this book did for me and my brain chemistry. I feel utterly empty inside. There’s a reading slump coming, and this book is to blame for it.

“I had no notion you kept track of my smiles”
“They’re such rare events . . . and they change your face so completely, it’s hard not to pay attention.”

ANAOWKIQQNA I WANT SOMEONE TO KEEP TRACK OF MY SMILES 😫😫😫😫😫

Liana De La Rosa does it again. I really shouldn’t be surprised when I loved Ana Maria and The Fox as much as I did but she really took the cake home with Isabel and The Rogue. There is no better feeling that seeing yourself in a character in a book you love and I related so much to Isabel, I actually got emotional and cried a bit with certain parts.

I am so thankful to Liana for writing the hero/love interest the way she did because out of the three sisters, Isabel always felt so unseen and unworthy. Like her existence was never acknowledged and eyes simply past her with little to no regard to her and here comes this blue eyed blonde man (I KNOWWWW WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT!! Me in love with a blonde MMC) and sees her to such depth she can’t help but fidget when he looks at her. Sirius saw everything and he fell head over heels for Isabel and I fell even deeper for the both of them and their story. He is the definition of “if he wanted to he could” 🥹

I love Liana’s writing. She has such beautiful prose and this way to mix historical events with important issues in the modern world. The scene at the museum with Isabel and Gabi talking about how colonizers swop in and take other countries treasures to “protect them when their own people can’t” instead of bringing aid to the people was just.. mind blowing and smart and incredible to see. The romance is beautiful, but the things in between lines are the most gorgeous parts of Liana’s writing.

“Why do you call me sunshine?” Sirius lifted his head and sat back on his haunches, a small frown on his lips. “Because everything seems brighter when you’re there.”

This man and his slowly developing love for Isabel was absolutely everything. He showed her in such detail. I will never stop thanking Liana for having him recite her poetry 😮‍💨😮‍💨 and the WHEN he does it and HOW?? Lord I was too weak. There was no way I was surviving this book. Sirius had that comforting trope all around him and he wasn’t afraid to show it.

And the spice? LORD HAVE MERCY…. I was wondering how these two were going to come together given Ana Maria and Gideon had a marriage of convenience trope and I didn’t see that happening here and then boom spice came at me at the most unexpected moment and had me blushing so hard my ears were red as a boiled lobster and about a million degrees 🥵 I love a good sneaking around and boy oh boy did these two nailed 🤭 that part of the romance. And as hot as I found it, it was also just beautiful. They fit together so beautifully and complement their personalities so well.

I finished the book in tears and sobs because the ending was perfection. I was so consumed by it that I turned the next page on my kindle ready for more and sobbed when I saw just the author’s note. What do you mean is over?! What do you mean I don’t get one last kiss? One last time of Sirius being both of us to our knees with his sweet and loving words?! I needed so much more of them. To have to wait until 2025 for the final book in the series is the cruelest thing anyone has done to me.

P.S. The little snippets Liana has been giving us about Gabi and Whitfield since book one, and specially in this one, have me in my knees begging anyone who will listen to just let me have her book already. I’ve lived the tension and banter in both books but I just know Gabi and her retorts and cleverness is going to bring us all to our knees so hard we’ll need to get them surgically put back together.

Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"Isabel and The Rogue" by Liana De la Rosa is a captivating historical romance set in Victorian-era London, offering a refreshing twist by featuring a Mexican heiress as its protagonist. The novel follows Isabel Luna Valdés, a determined woman on a mission to aid Mexico during the French Occupation, and Captain Sirius Dawson, a rakish British covert agent. Their paths cross in a thrilling blend of espionage, societal intrigue, and undeniable attraction.

De la Rosa's writing is elegant and immersive, vividly bringing to life the grand ballrooms and shadowy corners of Victorian London. The multicultural aspect, particularly the portrayal of Isabel as a Mexican heiress navigating the complexities of British society, adds a unique and compelling layer to the narrative. Her character is skillfully developed, blending intelligence, courage, and vulnerability in a way that makes her both relatable and admirable.

The chemistry between Isabel and Sirius is electric, with their initial encounters marked by witty banter and a palpable tension. Sirius, as a charismatic and cunning agent, is a perfect match for Isabel's sharp mind and determination. Their romance develops beautifully, with an engaging mix of passion and emotional depth.

The espionage element of the novel is well-crafted, adding suspense and intrigue to the romantic plot. Isabel's search for intelligence to aid Mexico and Sirius's own covert activities create a backdrop of political and societal tension that enhances the story's complexity.

However, readers seeking a traditional historical romance may find the espionage and political aspects of the story somewhat overwhelming. Additionally, the novel’s pacing can occasionally feel uneven, with some plot points developed more thoroughly than others.

Content warnings for themes of espionage, political intrigue, and societal constraints are appropriate. "Isabel and The Rogue" will appeal most to readers who enjoy historical romances with strong, intelligent protagonists, multicultural perspectives, and a blend of romance and intrigue.

In conclusion, "Isabel and The Rogue" by Liana De la Rosa is a richly woven historical romance that offers a delightful mix of passion, intrigue, and cultural depth. Its engaging characters, evocative setting, and compelling plot make it a standout read for fans of the genre.

Those last few chapters were absolute agony for me but I loved every second of it. The way that Miss Rosa manages to tear my heart into shreds and piece it back together? UNBELIEVABLE. I'm obsessed. The writing, the plot, the character development; everything was exceptionally beautiful.

Liana de la Rosa is back with book 2 of The Luna Sisters *screams in spanish*

First off, WOW! Isabel’s character was so easy to fall in love with because it literally gives you that middle child trauma + a grown women determined to follow her instincts and her heart but most importantly, A women that will stop at nothing to save her beloved home country.. MEXICO!

The Rogue aka British intelligence member Sirius and Isabel story is one filled with hidden kisses, secret love and a partnership that will lead to so much more than expected.

I was a big fan of Ana Maria and the Fox but on this book, Liana took us on an incredible journey filled with espionage! British intelligence! Betrayals! Mexico history during the French occupation! Lovely characters and really HOT scenes!

Needless to say that I cannot wait for book 3, I cannot wait to see more of the Luna sisters, Fox, The Rogue and well.. 👀

Anyways, Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.

Comfortable to read, a good pace, and moved along well. I stopped at the end of chapter 3 (16%). Probably an easy three stars for historical fiction fans, four for the right readers.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.