Member Reviews
An Honorable Deception by Roseanna White is the 3rd book in the Imposter series by Roseanna White. Lord Yates Fairfax is the lead of the Imposters and meets his newest client, Lady Alethia, at a confessional box for a discrete meeting. The Imposters' new case is the hunt for a missing nanny, but Lady Alethia is shot as she leaves the church. Add in a love triangle, and that is just the start of a much more complex mystery complete with well-developed characters. White does not shy away from hard topics like sexual abuse and human trafficking.
Who do you call upon when you are a lady in society and need someone to discreetly investigate a matter? The Imposters, of course! Lady Alethia Barremore’s former ayah is missing and she fears the worst has happened to her. Things turn deadly and it’s up to Yates and his team of investigators to discover what happened to her. Things are not always as they seem, and I was guessing throughout the story who was behind the threats.
I love the Imposters and their unique talents and even more so now with the addition of a group of pickpockets and thieves that help with gathering evidence. The role that they played was perfect!
Things to Love:
confessional meetings
cloak and dagger
family and friends
witty banter
circus monkey
Romani family
Barclay and Lucy
faith over fear
exposing darkness
auditorium incident
This is the third book in the Imposters series. It can be read as a standalone, but it helps to have had some of the background of the other characters. The complex plot, fast-paced action, and romantic relationships make this a book that is hard to put down.
*Brothels, abuse, and trafficking are in the story, but not described in detail.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, NetGalley, and JustRead Tours. All opinions expressed are my own with no obligation to write a review.
Roseanna M. White has done it again with her newest addition to the Imposters Series, An Honorable Deception.
White has a way with details and building a story where one truly doesn’t know how the story will end, and this book is no exception. With multiple love interests and a case whose impact reaches farther than ever, you’ll be sure to enjoy this mix of mystery and Godly truth.
As the Imposters private investigator service continues to grow and welcome new members, Yates and Lavinia must decide if the past is truly best left in the past and exactly how much they are willing to risk in their fight for justice. Roseanna White fans in particular will enjoy a special treat - a glimpse of a few beloved characters from some of her other series. It’s not necessary to read these other series to enjoy An Honorable Deception, but I do recommend that those that haven’t read the first and second books in the Imposters series read those prior to diving into the third story. Although not totally necessary to understand and enjoy the plot, there are some spoilers for the previous books in the series in this one, so it’s best to read them in order.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
In this exhilarating final installment, Rosanne M. White delivers everything I adore in a page-turner: rich history, gripping mystery, unforgettable characters, impactful moral lessons, and a delightful touch of romance! This is the third book in the Imposter series, and I’ve been on the edge of my seat waiting for Yates’ story.
Lavinia, a dear friend of the Fairfax family, unravels the secrets of her beloved companions, diving into the heart of one of London’s most sought-after investigative firms. As she delves deeper into their world, she and Yates must confront their tangled past while uncovering the scandalous truths lurking in high society. But can they forge a future together, especially with the enchanting Lady Alethia Barrymore stepping into the spotlight?
Familiar faces from the previous two books return, adding layers of charm and depth to this unforgettable tale. White tackles tough realities with a masterful blend of grace and hope, weaving a poignant redemptive message throughout. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you breathless!
An Honorable Deception by Roseanna M. White is the third book in The Imposters series and a definite must read if you love inspirational historical romance with some added mystery and suspense.
When the Imposters take on the investigation to see who is behind the attack on their client, Lady Alethia Barremore and finding her missing nanny, Yates, Marigold and Lavinia must do their best at keeping her safe along with keeping their connection to the elite private investigative firm hidden. However Lady Alethia is hiding something and they aren't sure if the secrets can help or harm her.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
I could not put this book down. Thankfully I had the time because I was sick so I was able to binge it with my free time from homework. I love the themes throughout the series, and how each one shows such unique character growth. I thought this was a really unique take on the love triangle. Normally I don’t like this trope, but I enjoyed how it was done! The three characters were really well developed and I enjoyed seeing how their characters developed. The suspense throughout the book really held my attention, and the plot was well thought through. The cameos made my heart so happy.
I received a complementary copy from the author, all opinions are my own.
Utterly satisfying conclusion, and my favorite novel of the series!
When the Imposters are hired by a young woman to find her missing ayah, it is quickly revealed that they have stumbled on something bigger and more sinister than they imagined.
I loved how this book follows multiple characters, running a gambit of emotions, delving into society's dark underside with gravity, with complex characters overcoming trauma, faith, romance, laced with witty banter, and Yate's wry musings. Lavinia is ready to heal, and I admired her bravery and selfless heart putting others before herself, as well as how she reached out in befriending Alethia, recognizing a hearting heart.
An excellent novel from beginning to end, I'm still processing everything, and I can't pick a favorite character because I loved them all! I loved the themes of overcoming the past and forgiving with God's help. And it was great to see another side of Xavier. Well worth the read and an all time favorite of mine from Roseanna M. White!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In An Honorable Deception, Roseanna M. White features the leader of the Imposters himself, Lord Yates Fairfax and his team working to search for Lady Alethia Barremore's attacker and her missing friend. While secretly heading this elite private investigation firm which markets their services to the upper echelons of society, Lord Fairfax wrestles with his heart as his longtime friend and unrequited first love, Lady Lavinia Hemmings joins their investigation.
While I've read several other books by Roseanna M. White, this is my first in the Imposters Trilogy. I was able to follow along quite well, but it would probably be best to read at least book one, A Beautiful Disguise prior to starting An Honorable Deception unless you don't mind being spoilers since the main plot points from that story was referred to and mentioned multiple times in this book. One thing I love about White's writing is that she has more unique or unusual plots. Since this book is also set in the Edwardian era of the early 20th century, things like the eccentricities of the Fairfax estate --with Yates and his sister Marigold's interest in acrobatics and exercise in early but appropriate gym wear was plausible and believable to me as a reader. I also appreciated the slight love triangle/quadrangle element that was well written but not often (in my experience) seen in Christian Fiction. All of the characters involved were worthy matches and I enjoyed the mix of wit, humor, and heart in the characters' dialogue.
White also skillfully incorporates darker topics such as abuse in a manner that is not overly graphic but also with the gravity it deserves. Due to the heavier subject matter, the final element I especially appreciated was the strong spiritual thread woven throughout the story. The foundation of faith in several of the characters served to give them hope and healing and was wonderful to see. Teen and adult fans of the Murdoch Mysteries tv series or romance with a side of sleuthing will enjoy this latest offering from Roseanna M. White.
[Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the publisher. This is my own opinion and a positive review was not required.]
4.5 stars
Y’all!!!!!!!!! YATES’ STORY IS HERE!!!!! I have been dyyyyyyyiiiiiiiiiing for Yates’ story ever since he charmed his way into my heart in the first book with his humor, kindness, brains and, yes, brawn. Speaking of the latter… I also confess to drooling over him more than a little bit as he practices his gymnast skills throughout the whole series but especially in An Honorable Deception. Whew! Keep a fan handy, dear readers. Or just read his training scenes from the comfort of your freezer. In defense of my blatant shallowness, he’s part ‘incorrigible flirt’ (like Becky Wade’s Ty Porter or Carla Laureano’s James MacDonald), part ‘tortured showman with untapped depths’ (like Joanne Bischof’s Charlie Lionheart), and part The Scarlet Pimpernel… so can you blame me for being besotted? Roseanna M. White has been building our infatuation for Yates since book one, and she’s done a marvelous job of creating the kind of hero with whom we all fall helplessly in love.
Okay, on to more noble discussions (if we must). An Honorable Deception is more than just a swoony romance with intrigue. The Imposters’ latest investigation also shines a spotlight on an evil that is unfortunately both timeless and timely, and the author does so with sensitivity and grace – and multidimensional characters who touched my heart. Never mind that this story is set in Edwardian England; the vile behavior of society’s upper crust men toward marginalized women on these pages is as current as tomorrow morning’s headlines, abhorrently so. Enter The Imposters who are not only brilliant investigators but bighearted rescuers too. While there are moments in this book that will break your heart, to be sure, there are many more that will have you standing and applauding and cheering for light to triumph over darkness.
You will also discover that, while An Honorable Deception deals with some sobering topics, it is not a heavy read. On the contrary, I frequently chuckled over the delightful banter between Yates and Lavinia (whose character just blossomed in this book – and I loved it) or grinned like a smitten fool over some delicious kissing scenes (maybe between Yates & Alethia, maybe between Yates & Lavinia, you’ll have to read to find out for sure). I also clapped giddily at the appearance of characters from one of White’s previous series and the nod to another one, my fangirl heart turning all warm and glowy at the unexpected visit with those dear fictional friends. Needless to say, even as we wrestle with the fallout of grievous sin and its victims, the joys in this story hold fast.
Bottom Line: An Honorable Deception by Roseanna M. White treats readers to warmly-layered characters whose stories evoke a wide range of emotions. Intrigue, suspense, humor, faith, and a handful of hard-fought happily-ever-afters blend together seamlessly to keep your attention riveted and your engagement high… and I appreciated every minute of the roller coaster White took me on during this novel. Having Yates as the hero was well worth the wait (whew. still fanning. have mercy), and seeing him deeply loved at last – for all that he is – made me immensely happy. This might be my favorite series of White’s to date, though a full and thorough re-read of the others is needed to be sure (oh the sacrifices I make for accuracy), but I need no further research to say this: Put The Imposters – and An Honorable Deception – on your must-read list without delay!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
I jumped into The Imposters series midway through, and this novel still hit hard, so I can only imagine how much more impactful this novel would be if you’ve read the series up to this point. The visuals and detailed descriptions are top-notch, transporting me to 1913 with sights unparalleled and immersing me in the world of the Imposters detective crew and England during that era.
You can feel the tension of the mystery that surrounds Lady Alethia get tighter as you read, but I also felt a lightheartedness as well in the budding relationships and easygoing banter of the Imposters, particularly between Yates and Lavinia. I do feel like there were times that felt bogged down by the details, but overall, the flow was nice and steady, almost giving this a cozy mystery vibe.
I have always enjoyed Roseanna M. White’s writing and have no idea why this series is just now coming up on my radar, but I am thoroughly smitten and plan on reading the rest of the series in the near future.
An Honorable Deception brings back the Imposters, the secret private investigation agency created by Lord Yates Fairfax and his sister, Lady Marigold, their cousin Graham, and Gemma, the daughter of the family’s former steward.
The story starts with Yates in the church, meeting his prospective client under cover of the confessional box. But their meeting doesn’t go as planned, and his new client is shot as she leaves the church. Yates takes Lady Alethia home to keep her safe, and places her in the care of his sister as they investigate who could have harmed Lady Alethia and the whereabouts of her missing ayah (nanny). The story takes us straight back to the Fairfax family home in Northumberland, which gives us a chance to meet the menagerie again
That’s a lot of fun. Lord Yates Merritt, next-door neigbour Lady Lavinia Hemming, and client Lady Alethia Barremore are all point of view characters, which provides the romantic tension: who will Yates choose? This could have been really awkward, but White handled it brilliantly and I was completely satisfied with the result.
And there was also the suspense element of the plot: who has kidnapped the ayah? Who shot Lady Alethia? What is the secret she’s hiding? These questions were all answered with perfect timing and the perfect amount of information.
Yes, I loved An Honorable Deception. I loved Yates from A Beautiful Disguise, where we first met Lavinia. I love the characters and the way they mix skill, intelligence, humour, and a genuine Christian faith. I loved the way the romance worked out perfectly, even if it didn’t work out the way I’d originally anticipated.
An Honourable Deception is the third book in Roseanne M White’s The Imposters series, and I hope weget to see more of Yates, Marigold, and the rest of the Imposters. If you’re read White’s other historical romances set in England, you’ll recognize a few of the characters who pop up toward the end of An Honourable Deception, like Barclay. I’d love to read a crossover series Upstairs Downstairs or Downton Abbey style with Yates, Barclay, Mr. V, and their associates … hint hint.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for reivew.
This story gets off to an explosive start when a young gentlewoman is ambushed, shot, and left for dead. Thankfully, the private investigator she was meeting with, who is none other than Lord Yates Fairfax of the Imposters, is there to rescue Lady Alethia and take on the case to find her missing nanny. Who would want to silence Lady Alethia's quest to the point of attempting murder?
The Imposters are back in the third and final novel of this captivating series. Although the group's numbers have stayed small out of necessity to their identity a secret, some things are going to require letting others in. Lady Lavinia Hemming, longtime neighbor of the Fairfaxes with haunting secrets of her own, takes to private investigative work like a duck to water and quickly becomes a valuable member of the team.
While I appreciated the quick start to the novel, the middle lagged a bit until the pieces fell into place. Once the team grasps the full consequences of where Lady Altheia's missing nanny might be, it is then full steam ahead until the dramatic conclusion.
Although done with careful language and extreme grace, this story takes on what we would call today trafficking and grooming. As I said, it is handled very well, but this might be an issue some readers should be aware of.
It was great joy to reenter the world of the Imposters and catch up with these characters who have become friends. The love triangle trope is not my favorite, but I must say it's done quite intriguingly and I kept waffling in deciphering if Yates would choose Lady Alethia or Lady Lavinia. It worked out exactly as it was supposed to in the end.
If you're a fan of Roseanna's other series, you'll enjoy seeing familiar characters who make cameo appearances in this book. Overall, I would recommend this for all who enjoy historical romance with a side of suspense.
I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Whew, this book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I was immediately captivated by the mystery. And even when the mystery evolved and got slightly out of my comfort zone, it was still intriguing enough for me to continue reading. I've read the other books in the series and I've loved hearing the stories of the Imposters. This one was solid, but not at the top of my list. I do have a content warning at the bottom. Don't read it if you want a completely spoiler free review.
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
**Content warning - Sexual abuse is discovered, and someone is recused from a brothel.
The Imposters' latest case starts with a bang - literally - when their client, Lady Alethia, is shot during the initial interview. Jeopardising his secret identity as Mr A, Lord Yates Fairfax rushes to Alethia's aid, taking her into the family home for protection. But there's little more she can tell about her missing former nanny, and the shooting makes it clear that there's more going on under the surface. Having discovered Yates' secret by accident, she's eager to help - not least because he makes her laugh in a way she hasn't done in years. And though their wounds are different, there's something about Alethia's guarded attitude that Lavinia recognises all too well and wants to help heal. Meanwhile, Yates is struggling with the need to spend time with both a former childhood sweetheart who rejected him and a new attraction - while working on a difficult case. Will he be able to keep his focus and his priorities right? And will the Imposters be able to find and save Samira - not to mention all the others trapped in a similar situation?
This kept me reading way too late into the night (morning) because I didn't want to put it down. It's a deeply moving story, albeit with lighthearted moments interspersed to keep it from getting too dark. The story definitely touches on the dark underbelly of society, but thankfully it's done in a sensitive and redeeming (as far as possible) way. In terms of the romance, I'm not a fan of love triangles, but fortunately this turned into a love square and everyone was happy! I loved the way that both Alethia and Lavinia gradually face and overcome their pasts, with support from each other and their friends - not to mention Yates. I was very uncertain what exactly their solution to this particular social problem was going to be, but the way it unfolded was brilliant - especially the way it's hinted at beforehand but we have to wait to see it happen just like the audience. The result is an inspiring and heartwarming read with characters I loved getting to know and a mystery to solve (not to mention bad guys to punish). A great read - highly recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
An Honorable Deception by Roseanna M. White is the third and final book in The Imposters series. The characters in this story have many secrets from each other, making it intriguing. There are so many great characters in both this book and the series as a whole.
Set in England in 1910, the story revolves around private investigators known as The Imposters. It’s exciting to finally get the full story of Lord Yates Fairfax. He finds himself in a love triangle with two women, Lady Lavinia Hemming and Lady Alethia Barremore. I enjoyed reading from the perspectives of all three of them. Although I figured out who Yates would choose, it was still a captivating journey to see how it all unfolded.
The plot is original, intricate, and keeps you guessing from the first page to the last. What starts as a missing person investigation grows into a much larger and darker problem. This book addresses serious issues like human trafficking and different forms of abuse, but White approaches these topics with care and sensitivity.
Overall, this Christian Historical Romance is excellent, featuring a compelling friends-to-lovers storyline filled with suspense and a mystery that tackles tough subjects. An Honorable Deception serves as a captivating ending to a distinctive series rich in faith, trust, charm, and love.
I love this series. The relationships are beautifully complex and real, the problems relatable and the mysteries intriguing. In this book I wasn't initially sure who I was rooting for when it came to Yates heart, which means the author did her job well. What I was sure of was my response to the deep injustice and abuse being both exposed and shut down.
Though there are no dramatic descriptions, people who have a history of abuse and manipulation should be sure they have done enough processing to not be triggered by the situations that the Imposters uncover in the course of their fight for justice. I actually think the book is beautifully written and deals very tastefully with depravity, but I would offer the light caution that the evil that is being opposed is in fact distressing.
This book is about relationships, as friends, as family and in a romantic setting. And it is about healing. And it is about love and faith and the power that the gospel brings for us live in freedom even when we are trapped in our circumstances. It's a powerfully engaging story about a set of characters I've come to love. I'm glad I read it.
I have to admit, this book really surprised me! I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. It was my first time reading a book by this author, and I was worried that the suspense and mystery might overshadow the romance. But no, the romance was absolutely amazing! If you're a fan of romance, this book is packed with it. It's a slow burn, but it keeps you hooked, and I finished it in one day because I just had to know how it ended. Now, I’m officially a fan of Roseanna, and I can't wait to check out more of her books!
In this story, Yates (one of the "Imposters") agrees to bring his lifelong friend and neighbor, Lavinia, into their group. They need her help, especially since some members of the team are expecting babies. Adding her was the right choice – she becomes a huge asset to their mission. However, things take a complicated turn when they take on a case involving Lady Alethia, a case much bigger than they anticipated. As things unfold, Yates finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Lady Alethia, the first woman he's ever considered outside of Lavinia. Years ago, Lavinia made it clear they could only be friends, so Yates starts to focus on their new client. What he doesn’t expect is how complicated it would be to work alongside Lavinia. Despite years of moving on, it seems there’s still something between them. Lavinia believes Yates deserves to find happiness with Alethia, but does either of them truly want that? Meanwhile, a major mystery is unfolding. Alethia's nanny is missing, and when she seeks help from the Imposters, she’s shot! Who’s after her, and what connection does Lord Yates have to the Imposters? Could he be the one she’s meant to be with?
What you'll find in this book:
- Friends to more
- Forced proximity
- A love triangle
***Stick with it – it’s definitely worth it!
- Christian romance
- Suspense and mystery
TW: Prostitution and child abuse, which the Imposters are working to shut down.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Another amazing suspense/mystery novel about the delightful Imposters detective agency.
I loved reading Lavinia's story.
So much happening in this story, so many surprises.
Just so SO good!
Please do read the other books first, though, if you haven't!
I highly recommend this one! And I'm sad to see this fun series come to an end.
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
This is the third and final in the series, as far as I know. It's a little darker in subject than the first two but relevant to some social ills we see in our place in history as well. Yates is my favorite character of all! I think it is because of him that I enjoy this series as I do. There is quite a bit of religious/Christian sentiment in this book. The romance wasn't quite as strong in this one but it's still a good story. If you have read some of her other series, you will meet some characters that feature prominently in a series set at a later historical time period. Very fun!
This is book 3 in the series and I recommend reading the previous books first so that you will know all the characters well. This is a great story! I was happy to learn about what happened with Yates and Lavinia. And to see them give love a chance again. Alethia’s story is so sad with her father and uncle. I felt so bad for her and her former nanny. I enjoyed seeing other characters from previous books again. This story tackles some tough subjects but does it well. It has great Christian content as well. Overall, a great story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: murder, attempted murder, sexual abuse(brothels and sex trafficking), child abuse
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.