Winter’s Heat by Zoe Archer (Nemesis, Unlimited #1.5)
Historical novella
Released: October 22, 2013
St. Martin’s
Reviewed by May
“Where the job’s concerned, I’ll gladly take your protection and guidance. But I’ve been navigating the servants’ hall for almost half my life. I know all about men like William. Anyway,” she added, “clown or no, who I chose to flirt with isn’t any business of yours.”
Regret darkened his face. “I know it.” He fell silent, then said, “It’s killing me. Do you have another man?”
“You keep going back to things that aren’t your concern.”
“Yes or no. That’s all I need.”
For a moment, she considered simply walking away. Or lying. Both would be safer options than the truth. But she wasn’t a liar, and she didn’t run from the things that frightened her. “No,” she admitted.
Ada thought she and Michael had something special once upon a time – until he disappeared without a word or trace for more than six months. Now, on her first assignment for Nemesis, Unlimited she runs into the one man she never thought she’d see again. The one man who captured her heart.
This was a well done novella, and if you want to get a feel for Archer’s overall voice as a writer and for this Nemesis series then you might want to check it out. It stands alone nicely and was a lovely read.
He flashed her a quick, devastating grin. “It’s part of the recruiting criteria for Nemesis. Mad? Perfect. Dangerous? Even better.”
I really enjoy the Nemesis crew. They are people from all walks of life – from convicted criminal to wealthy gentleman of leisure – working together for a common cause. To bring justice to those that can’t get it for themselves. Their methods are unusual, and the results might not be what you’d expect, but they are out there doing good and putting the hurt on England’s worst.
It isn’t all intrigue though – she brings the heat too.
“I’m not asking.” She moved back to sit astride him. “I’m telling you. Kiss me.”
“Damn right I will,” he growled, and then he cupped the back of her neck with one broad, callused hand, urging her close.
When their lips met again, it was hot, demanding. They didn’t waste time with prefaces or gentle, shy exploration. This was a kiss of long-simmering need.
The tension and chemistry between Ada and Michael simmered from the first page, and I really liked the dynamic between them. It did bother me a bit that Ada has some knowledge of Nemesis, that they go off and do these missions, and yet she was beyond angry with Michael that he disappeared without a word. Wouldn’t she cut him some slack, perhaps be more understanding that this is what can happen?
It was a minor annoyance for me; it certainly didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the story. I do wish the story was longer – but that is just because I wanted more time with this couple, and I always find myself wishing for more when stories are shorter length.
There are a lot of good things I’ve said before about Archer’s books, and I’ll say them again. She writes interesting, rich, absolutely delicious characters that come to life on the pages. Her heroines are always clever and capable. Her heroes always as smart as they are sexy. Her settings are unique and she is truly a refreshing voice in the historical fiction genre. I’m really excited that she is doing this series that is straight up historical and I hope that those who have not read her previously because of steampunk or mystical type elements will try this series.
If you are looking for a quick historical read featuring a festive setting and leading characters that are secret (vigilante type) agents who are working as servants and without a blushing maiden or rake in sight – then this is one to check out.
I know I am greatly looking forward to the next installment in this series and meeting more of her characters as well as seeing what the Nemesis gang gets into next.
Grade: B
More Zoe Archer Reviews.
Goodreads l Author Website l Series Guide
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