Rich in historical detail, with a delicious amount of suspense and romantic tension, the second book in The Luna Sisters series was a delight from start to finish! 

We follow, Isabel, the middle Luna sister, who uses her often forgotten presence at social gatherings to covertly gain intel on behalf of her home countries’ (Mexico) president— in order to help Mexico defeat the invading French army.

Only, she has a slight problem… the roguish Captain Sirius Dawson doesn’t find her nearly as forgettable. And as a covert agent himself, for the Home office (who seduces high born ladies for counter intelligence purposes) he quickly realises Isabel’s snooping is more that just idle curiosity. 

 

The pair do lock horns, but Sirius (who quickly finds himself outwitted and outmanoeuvred by the smart, savvy and sharp tongued Isabel) is practically besotted (not that he would ever admit it.) Especially when their intense, mutual attraction leads them into some pretty steamy predicaments that had me utterly hooked! 

I absolutely adored this and think readers looking for more diversity and depth in their historical romance will definitely be pleased with this series. 

Isabel and Sirius were both wonderfully compelling characters whose emotional backstories really added a layer of depth and dimension that we don’t often get in the genre.

From PTSD and survivor’s guilt to racism, colonialism, sisterhood and cultural exploitation— the spectrum of social commentary Liana De La Rosa explores is quite vast, but perfectly highlights why diverse perspectives are soo important in literature—especially in historical romances where struggles can be glossed over in favour of a more romanticised view. 

As a Brit, I’m not overly familiar with Mexico’s history, especially during the era this book is set, so really enjoyed getting to explore from a non-Eurocentric perspective. It was refreshingly informative and made me appreciate Isabel and her family’s struggles all the more. 

Overall a satisfyingly steamy (and deliciously angsty) historical romance that has me eager for Isabel’s sassy younger sister, Gabby’s book. 

Also, thanks to Piatkus/ Little Brown UK for the PB copy.