Never Blow A Kiss

Lovise lures readers into a clandestine world of espionage and scandal in her captivating Victorian era debut and Secret Society of Governess Spies series launch. Emily Leverton grew up in a family of thieves before reinventing herself as a governess. Now she’s recruited by the Dove, an elusive aristocrat who runs a secret agency of governess spies. The fledgling, largely lower-class police force struggles to enforce the law on society’s elites, allowing them to get away with murder. But governesses “hear the fights, witness the scandals, and watch the servants clean up the blood. They know where to point the finger.” Emily takes a job in the household of the Earl of Eastmoreland, caring for his six children and reporting unusual activities to the Dove. While delivering a forgotten fan to one of her charges at a lavish ball, Emily sees wealthy railroad magnate-turned-police officer Zachariah Denholm get cornered by marriage-minded ladies. She laughs at his discomfort and, when he confronts her, cheekily blows him a kiss before slipping away. The sass sparks desire in Zach, leaving him determined to woo the spirited woman. At the same time, he hunts for the Evangelist, an elusive killer targeting prostitutes, a suspense plot that eventually dovetails with the romance, upping the stakes. The unique premise is edgy and enticing and the budding relationship is expertly crafted. Lovise is sure to win fans with this. Agent: Emily Sylvan Kim, Prospect Agency. (Jan.)