Theresa Plane owes it to her beloved grandfather to save the family name – that means clearing their debt before she marries the wealthy and dashing Edward Greystone. But when a creditor’s threats lead her to stumble across a midnight meeting, Theresa discovers that Grandfather is hiding far more than the money he owes. Adn the secrets he kept now have Theresa trapped in a life-threatening fight for her home…and the truth.
After months of undercover work, Secret Service operative Broderick Cosgrove is about to uncover the identity of theleader of a notorious counterfeiting ring. That moment of triumph turns to horror, however, when he finds undeniable proof that his former fiancee, Theresa, is connected. He won’t believe the woman he loved is a willing participant. Protecting Theresa and proving her innocence may destroy his career, but that’s better than failing her twice in one lifetime.
Broderick and Theresa must form a partnership, but there’s no question they’re both keeping secrets. That lack of trust in one another, when there are dangerous criminals out for their blood, threatens their hearts, their faith, their very survival.
I was honored to be a part of Crystal Caudill’s launch team for Counterfeit Love, as well as a part of the I Read with Audra blog tour. As part of these teams, I received a book from the publisher. The opinions below are my own.
I’m so excited to be able to share my thoughts on this book with you. Crystal Caudill’s debut novel, Counterfeit Love, did not disappoint.
Counterfeit Love takes you on an adventure through the streets of Cincinnati in 1884. Action-packed from the very first scene, it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Favorite Characters
Theresa Plane: Theresa’s commitment to family was a great part of her character. She loved her grandfather and wanted to help him in any way she could. However, her love for family didn’t keep her from searching for the truth.
Broderick Cosgrove: His love of Theresa and his desire to protect her were strong. I was glad to see him in her corner, despite what others may have told him to do.
What I Liked About the Book
As one who enjoys history, I loved all of the historical tidbits that flowed throughout the book. The counterfeiting ring played a huge role in the story, and I felt as though I was right in the middle of it all.
Who Would Like This Book?
Anyone who likes romantic suspense or historical stories would enjoy this book.
Would I Read It Again?
Probably. It held my attention, and I wanted to keep turning the pages. At the same time, I wanted to pace myself because I didn’t want it to end.
Good news, though. This is only the first book in her HIDDEN HEARTS OF THE GILDED AGE series. I’ve just got to wait a year to read the next one.
Be sure to check out crystalcaudill.com for bonus material that goes along with Counterfeit Love.
AUTHOR BIO
Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.
For a chance to win a copy of Counterfeit Love, please visit https://www.audrajennings.com/2022/03/win-copy-of-crystal-caudills.html.