She seeks recognition.
He seeks a criminal.
She’s is his main suspect, and he’ll go to any lengths to catch her in the act.

Clever, stubborn, and studious Abigail dreams of finding a discovery that will win her fame, recognition, and enough fortune to be independent. The trouble is no one in her family or society thinks a woman is capable of being a geologist. That is, until a handsome Irish gentleman comes to town.

Robert seems too good to be true: an ordinary fellow more than willing to believe and help Abigail. Together, they explore the coves, rocks, and beaches of the Dorset coastline. As their unlikely friendship grows, so does their unusual attraction.

Soon they find an ancient artifact that could make Abigail’s future, but on the brink of leaving for London, Abigail discovers that Robert may have ulterior motives for wanting to get to know her. Is he who is claims to be? And will they be able to trust each other again after such revelations?

The first in a three-part series, The Scholar’s Spy draws on the life of Mary Anning and blends together the unusual and extraordinary achievements of the real-life geologist, alongside the treasonous practice of smuggling in England creating a riveting, enthralling historical romance.

Tropes you’ll enjoy:

• Irish spy hero
• injured naval captain hero
• working class leads
• opposites attract
• scientist heroine
• smuggling and spies
• rural seaside setting
• friends to lovers
• secret identities

Note: This series is part of Dragonblade’s Flame line, so this is a scorching-hot read with open-door steam.