It’s a special Regency Friday Fun on the blog today because I’m featuring the uber-talented Kate Noble. Kate’s books are wonderfully romantic and beautifully written, with great stories and unique, engaging characters. Her first book, Compromised, became a national bestseller and received a starred review from Booklist, the prestigious review journal of the American Library Association. Kate went on to write Revealed, which was nominated for a RITA Award from The Romance Writers of America, and The Summer of You, which was named a Kirkus Reviews Best Romance of 2010. As you can tell from this short writing bio, Kate is truly one of the new stars of historical romance!
Follow My Lead is Kate’s latest book, which came out on May 3rd.
Aside from having one of the prettiest covers I’ve ever seen, the book has been getting phenomenal reviews. It got a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly, and a starred review from Library Journal:
“The classic titled-hero-falls-for-independent-bluestocking-heroine plot gets a refreshing spin as Noble propels her characters on a passionate, whirlwind adventure. It will keep readers thrilled and on edge until the very end.” — Library Journal, April 2011
Here’s the blurb for Follow My Lead:
Jason Cummings, Duke of Rayne is feeling the weight of his responsibilities – one of which is to get married. Being the most sought after bachelor in London can be trying, so who can blame him if he seeks refuge from the voracious hordes of young debutantes at the decidedly female-free Historical Society? Female-free, that is, until Winnifred Crane marches up to the door, demanding entrance.
Despite her prowess as a historian, Winn is denied membership to the Society. So she daringly offers an unusual bargain: if she can prove the authenticity of a certain painting, she’ll be granted recognition, fame, and respect. But to do that, she must go abroad. And to go abroad, she must have an escort, even a stubbornly unwilling one…
Jason has no desire to accompany Winn on her adventure across Europe, but even he is not immune to Winn’s passion for her profession. As the journey proves more difficult than planned, they must work together to stay one step ahead of their rivals… and the closer they get to the proof Winn seeks, the closer she and Jason become. But as their adventure turns dangerous, can Jason keep this headstrong bluestocking safe? And what will become of their growing bond when the adventure ends?
Now, does that not sound like a heck of a fun read? I’m a sucker for a good road story/romance, so I’m telling you that I’m running out to buy this book today!
Kate also has one of the cutest book trailers I’ve seen in a long time, which you can view on her website. And while you’re looking around Kate’s website make sure you check out her contest page. She’s giving away great prize bundles of books to celebrate the release of Follow My Lead. One of those bundles contains a copy of My Favorite Countess, by yours truly.
As you can tell, I’m a huge fan of Kate’s books and if you haven’t read her I’d like you to be, too! So I’ll be giving away a copy of Follow My Lead to one person who leaves a comment by Saturday evening. Just let me know what your favorite historical romance of all time is for a chance to win this fabulous book!
Vanessa Kelly Author 