Listen I'm a sucker for an enemies to lovers always. Throw in a badass heroine, political intrigue and absolutely brilliant banter and you've got yourself a fantastic book! I loved learning even more about Mexico's history and the author seamlessly wove the fictional characters in with real historical figures. Isabel and Sirius were both very well developed characters who genuinely care about each other from the get go, despite butting heads on more than one occasion. I absolutely adored how much Sirius was there to support Isabel in her dreams and aspirations (that final scene had me screaming!!!) and the dynamics between them were beautifully written. Isabel and the Rogue was such an enjoyable read for me and I cannot wait to continue this series with Gabby's book soon!

I didn't realise that this was the second book in a series, and although that didn't spoil my enjoyment of this I do think I would have benefitted from reading Ana Maria's story first. The sisterly relationship is probably one of the best aspects of the book. Although different in personality, Isabel is very much seen as the shy wallflower, the women are fiercely protective of each other in their own way.

I really liked the historical aspects of this more than the romance, and was actually pleasantly surprised at how much the historical plot took centre stage. Isabel is desperate for news on the French invasion, using the fact that she is a woman of seeming insignificance to further her understanding of what is going on. She certainly doesn't let Sirius, a rake and all round no good man, stand in her way. Their blossoming relationship was definitely steamy and had all the right chemistry, if a little quick in its development. I also wasn't keen on the inner turmoil from Sirius. He basically hates himself, thinks himself worthless after all the good men who have died in the war. It just felt very obvious and overly done. Every rake thinks he's not good enough, and just once I want a male historical lead who oozes confidence and sexuality.

Loved the historical aspects and character chemistry, but I wanted a slower build up from the romance and a stronger male protagonist.

Unfortunately I didn't like this as much as the first book - it just felt pretty average. The historical backdrop is fun and adds a deeper element to the story, but I didn't feel the connection between Isabel and Sirius - and the spicy scenes were honestly making me cringe, why was he talking like that ew. I also just found myself not caring about the plot that much either - but it might just be a me thing! There seems to be a lot of people who really liked this!

Isabel and the Rogue is the second book in Liana De la Rosa’s historical romance series. This book centres around Isabel Luna Valdés, who has fled to London with her two sisters; being Mexican heiresses they have escaped Napolean's/the French invasion of Mexico, their parents aiding their escape, thinking it will be safer for them there. We learn more about this in the first book which unfortunately I have not read.

It did not affect my enjoyment of the second book - Isabel is tasked with espionage/getting closer to London's elite who may have connections in France and discover British intelligence that can aid the effort in Mexico/keep her parents safe and unharmed. What makes this even better is that Isabel is a wallflower, unsuspecting and discreet, she slips into the darkness at social gatherings whilst all the guests and even the host remains unaware - only until on one such night, she is caught by Captain Sirius Dawson, who himself had been hoping to have a private moment with one of the wealthy widows at the party they're both attending - but both their plans are thwarted by the other! Sirius Dawson is a former soldier in the army, who works for the Home Office since returning back to England. Will Isabel be successful in aiding her country whilst abroad, or is she fated to have Sirius come in her way at every juncture?

Being a middle sister and a bookworm (there are many book recommendations dotted about too so this is another great reason to pick this one up!), I related to Isabel alot and was convinced by her growth and development in the book. Although overshadowed by her sisters and preferring the company of her younger, vivacious sister Gabby, over non-existent friends, there was so much Isabel offered in this instalment and De la Rosa dealt with bringing that confidence and self-love out beautifully.

This is aided by Sirius, who is not overbearing - and has his own skeletons hidden away in his closet - but again a very well written and developed MMC. Sirius may be a rogue but beneath all the layers he dons amongst crowds is a pure-hearted soul who feels the Crown has not valued the soldiers and the families who have fought and/or lost their lives in the war, and he makes it a personal mission to employ/house and care for them. Insert *Heart-eyed emoji*/ *crying* emoji here please!

The chemistry between the two was undeniable from their very first interaction which only heat up more as the book/their scenes go on (3.5/5 on spice levels). There is a forbidden romance/regency era element to this and with the espionage/covert intentions, it heightened the tension between them! I actually loved this couple together, they both are very likeable and you can see how they both share commonalities in their backgrounds which has made them the individuals they are.

The author has tried to balance Historical Romance vs Historical Fiction and the author's note at the end is clear on where representations are made to develop the story but mostly was factual and true. Spotlight here on the British Museum and the theft of artefacts/I had no idea that an employee has stolen/sold around 2,000 on ebay last year! The book is insightful and does touch on alot of sensitive/crucial topics. I know very little about the French invasion of Mexico/this particular political era however, it was educational and warranted my attention with how the Luna sisters discuss this in the book, and I am definitely hoping to read more non-fiction books on this particular period now.

Can I also highlight the male friendship represented in this book too, which was wonderful - it isn't always you get to witness it but Gideon and Sirius's interactions are very wholesome. I will definitely be picking up the first book and look forward to the third book in the series once it releases, which will deal with Gabby's love story! This is definitely a series to follow.

I loved Isabel and the Rogue and have signed up officially to everything written by Liana De la Rosa !

Thank you Netgalley and Little, Brown Book Group for the advanced copy in exchange for an h0nest unedited review.

I've never read anything by Liana De La Rosa before, but she didn't let me down with this one. Given that Isabel and the Rouge is a series book with a continuous plot, I would advise starting with this book. Without a doubt, I'll read the first book.

Isabel and the Rogue were so relatable. The way the author drew this heroine and the man she would fall in love with, Sirius, was excellent. I cherished every aspect of their relationship's growth, including the tension, the dislike, the HEA, and all in between. I really adored how the historical details were woven into the story. This book was fantastic. It was cheerful, playful, seductive, and lovely all at once. It was an emotional read as well. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next installment in the series. It's highly recommended by me.

Thank You to NetGalley and to Little, Brown Book Group Uk for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

Rated 4.5 Stars

Isabel and the Rogue was so relatable. I felt seen in so many ways. So much of her struggles I also struggled with. The author did a superb job of drawing this character as well the man, Sirius she'd fall for. I loved the development of their relationship, the tension, the dislike, the HEA and everything in between. I also loved the way the historical bits were interspersed throughout the story. It enhanced the story and my reading experience rather than took away or bogged down the narrative. I appreciated the fact that there was no info dumping. I truly loved this book. It was sweet, sexy, fun and lighthearted while also being serious. It was also an emotional read. I loved it and can't wait to read the next book in the series. I highly recommend it.

I love this story so much more than the first one. Beautiful writing, Liana! I look forward to Gabby's story

Liana De La Rosa gives regency with a twist with Isabel and the Rogue. Spys X Book lovers X regency. Though it wasn't super heavy on the romance.

Isabel Luna has always been overlooked and discreet as the middle sister and bookish wallflower. She can sneak away from ballrooms and events unnoticed..... or so she thought.... Captain Sirius Dawson notices Isabels coninuous disapearances and offers to help her sneak around to get the information she needs to save her country.

After finishing the first book in this series, I went straight to this book and I can honestly say it did not disappoint!!! I related to Isabel a lot in the first book and was excited to read more about her and her spy- plot in this book.

I loved the relationship Isabel and Siruis had, as partners in crime and as a "couple". Their connection was very vulnerable and real...showing their true selves and their flaws but still loving eachother unconditionally. Siriuis really saw Isabel for the amazing, intelligent woman she was and went to great lengths to ensure she was safe and happy. Their love story was definitely my favourite so far!

I also liked the Historical components in this book and learning more about the Mexican war as I don't feel this is talked about alot! Liana did a great job explaining the issues and effect war had on people.

Overall, I loved this book and the historical element was really inspiring. I cannot wait for Gabby's story!!!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this eARC of 'Isabel and The Rogue' by Liana De la Rosa.

Honestly, I preferred 'Isabel and The Rogue' much more than the first novel, Isabel was such a good character to read about. Liana De la Rosa has such a beautiful writing style, my brain needed a few days to just simmer after reading this book.

What an absolute joy this was from cover to cover!

I adore Isabel and the Luna sisters. Watching her confidence grow and stepping more fully into herself was so special. The love interest being a capital “R” Rake was such a delight and Sirius did not disappoint. I love discovering a secret romantic hidden behind a filthy mouth. Their relationship was so believable and the tension was incredible. I can’t wait to read more from this author.

Sweet, sexy and with a side of espionage; this was everything! Would highly recommend to lovers of historical romance.

After reading the first book in the series, I jump straight right into this, and it was even better! This book has all the things I loved bout the first one, it's a romance with depth to it. It talks about colonialism, ethnocentrism, feminism, racism, as the first one did, but also about mental health and who countries treat their soldiers. But not only that, I think the characters and the plot in this one were a step-up as well. I got to know more of Isabel and Sirius, and the spy subplot kept me turning the pages. Definitely a favourite of the year.

Isabel and the Rogue is the second book in the Luna Sisters trilogy. I hadn’t read the first book and although I could tell what happened in the first book, I don’t feel put off or spoiled for the first book and I intend to go back and read it. Isabel Luna is the quiet, more reserved sister who loves her home country of Mexico, doing everything in her power to ensure the safety of her loved ones back home.
Soldier, Captain Sirius Dawson has been adjusting to civilian life after previously being at war. He has a rakish reputation but deep down he’s a good man who helps rehabilitate soldiers when they arrive home.
With each of them working to help their respective country, the pair clash when they’re hunting for the same information – what the French are intending to do in Mexico and who could be aiding them.
I enjoyed this book. I think on the surface, both characters were misunderstood by those around them but as they got to know each other on a deeper level, their personalities meshed really well.
I definitely related to Isabel. The shy, bookworm sister preferred her own company and could hide in the shadows. But one thing was certain: Captain Dawson always saw her for who she was.
Their chemistry was great and it was a fun and unique story that was refreshing for historical/regency romance. They tend to be very narrow minded or ‘proper’, with very few mentioning different ethnicities and cultural situations, so seeing new cultures mentioned in a historical setting was refreshing. This book was fairly spicy but it always felt passionate and romantic.
I’m excited to see what comes next but before that I will be reading Ana Maria and the Fox! Thank you for the eARC!

Isabel and The Rogue by Liana De La Rosa is the second book in the Luna Sisters Series. This is Isabel and Sirius‘ story.
 
Isabel prefers books over people, and she prefers libraries over ballrooms. She is like the forgotten sister and a wallflower. A lot of people underestimate and overlook her, which was quite sad, because she is such a great person with lots of humor and wit.
 
Sirius is a covert agent for the British Home Office, and he mingles with the elite and especially politicians. He is a bit like James Bond, and it never gets boring with him.
 
Isabel and Sirius are a lovely couple, and their story was romantic and captivating. They have a mutual attraction and so much chemistry and I loved seeing how that developed more and more with each page. This story also included another historic aspect and Isabel discovers some correspondence that could help Mexico against the French Occupation and that was done very well.
 
Overall, Isabel and The Rogue is another amazing historical romance that I really enjoyed. 4 stars.
 
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for a review.)

I absolutely adored Isabel and The Rogue and seeing the Ton through the Luna sisters’ eyes. Isabel is portrayed as a wallflower who prefers the company of books to people, but it’s clear from the start that she’s doing so to hide her spying activities to help her country and that beneath all that she’s smart, a little cunning, passionate and witty. She also hides deep insecurities, making her a complex character easy to root for. And Sirius. I love a good rake with a heart of gold, hiding an inner pain about his time at war. As they both continued their espionage activities, eventually working together, they also caught feelings for each other. But, it was the way they truly saw each other and comforted each other that made them so perfect, matching each other even in their insecurities. So, if you’re looking for your next historical romance fix, but with well-executed Latina representation and a captivating plot, Isabel and The Rogue is out now and you should grab a copy!

Things I loved about Isabel and the Rogue:
☀️ the relationship between Isa, Gabby and Ana was lovely
☀️ love me a good hurt/comfort scene
☀️ Sirius Dawson THE MAN THAT YOU ARE
☀️ he calls her sunshine 🥹
☀️ this one was for the wallflowers 💜
☀️ sexy library scenes >>>>>>

If you are a fan of Bridgerton you will love this romance!
Things to expect:
* Reformed rake and bookish wallflower
* A steamy desk scene
* Allies to lovers
+ Him reading her poetry in bed
Hispanic FMC
This book is set a couple years after the first book in the series, but it is a standalone, and now I'm going to have to go back and read Book 1!

If you're really into Bridgerton at the moment, this book is probably going to be up your street. It has numerable similar aspects including the time period, genre, emotional character monologues etc and makes use of phrases such as 'the mamas' and 'the ton' which if you're a Bridgerton fan, will allow you to pick up where the Season 3 break has left off!

This was a new genre for me in terms of a period drama-style romance. I'm not usually a historical fantasy/fiction girlie to begin with so this was an interesting experiment. Ultimately, I don't think it's for me, but I loved the sisterhood of the girls in this story. I felt that they leaned on each other when they needed support and I was rooting for them the whole way through even if I was less interested in the plot.

I also (no spoilers!) loved the ending, it was exactly what I was hoping for for our brave and opinionated fmc.

Many thanks to Liana de la Rosa, Little Brown Book group, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. It's the second in the Luna sisters trilogy, which is about a trio of beautiful, upper-class Mexican girls who find themselves in Victorian England after Mexico is invaded by France in the 1850's. I reviewed the first book, Ana Maria and the Fox, last year, and although I enjoyed it, I thought from Isabel and Sirius' interactions in that book that I might like their story more, so I've been eagerly anticipating this. And it lived up to my expectations - I really loved this book, so much so that I may very well read it a second time in June.

"But what's it about?" I hear you say. Well, Isabel has been recruited by representatives of the Mexican government to spy on Victorian high society and bring back any information that might help to defeat the French. Sirius realises what she's doing, and offers to help her. Both are attracted to each other, but Sirius' reputation as a rogue precedes him, and Isabel is initially wary. She's also aware that a long-term relationship isn't a possibility because she wants to return to Mexico...

The author's note at the back describes how she fell in love with Isobel as she was writing this story, and I can see why. While Isabel sees herself as a boring, plain, retiring wallflower, she's anything but. She's consistently daring (imagine becoming a spy with no training!) Her sister Gabby also tries to show Isabel how strong and resilient she is. She gradually develops her own confidence and sense of self as the story progresses.

Sirius also has his own interesting backstory. A veteran of the Crimea, he's haunted by thoughts of what happened there, and of the lack of support for veterans. His qualities are gradually revealed throughout the narrative, and he and Isabel complement each other so well. I also loved the ending, which features a twist unusual in even contemporary romances.

The author takes the facts of the French invasion of Mexico and uses them as a backdrop for the story, which allows her to weave in details of two prominent Mexican women, Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz (a Mexican writer) and Senora Maza de Juarez, the first lady of Mexico. It's worth reading the author's note at the back of the book to learn more about them.

If you enjoy historical romance, I would really consider this. It doesn't always pay too much attention to accuracy, though (Isabel sneaks out to break into Sirius' house in the middle of the night, for example!) So if you don't like seeing contemporary mores make their way into historical novels, this might not be for you.

2.5 ⭐️

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I was definitely expecting more of this novel, considering the premise is something I usually enjoy and the fact that it sounds fun.

However, my actual experience from reading this is far from it. I mean, there are cute scenes and such, but it didn't leave me that factor of enjoyment and attachment for a long period of time. It kind of felt bland for me, especially how the plot was laid out, as well as the characterization.

Overall, I think the writing could have been better.

◇

~Thank Berkely Pub and Netgalley for the e-arc~

Starting off strong with a dedication that I loved: "For the bookworms. The wallflowers. The quiet ones . . . who roar so loudly."

This was actually my first book by Liana De La Rosa, I hadn't read Ana Maria's book before this, and I really enjoyed it. I honestly thought I'd knock this one off my ARC list quickly but found myself savoring it. I can't wait to go back and read Ana Maria's book and I'm so excited for Gabby to get her book!

This book is extremely character driven, their is also an espionage plot but it's more about discussing the politics and actions than a strong/driving plot, but fortunately the characters are so likable! There are both strong and supportive male and female characters which I really liked.
This one is dual POV which I loved! The change of POVs is very abrupt but maybe it just didn't translate well to kindle or ARC format. I actually don't usually love the whole reformed rake thing purely because usually he's an a**hole but Sirius Dawson is the sweetest man. I really liked the exploration of his survivors guilt and how he had great male friendships to help him through it. Sirius definitely falls first and he falls HARD. Like that man is a simp and I love him for it. And of course I absolutely loved Isabel, a wallflower who is also intense and passionate? Adored her. I also got some ND coded vibes from Isabel so I felt really seen through her character. I loved her relationship with her sisters, especially Gabby.
I really loved their chemistry, they have a very intense and intimate love. They both support and understand each other on a deeper level than anyone else. And "sunshine" and "darling" took me OUT.
The spice was 🔥 but I have to say the word "cunny" makes me want crawl into a hole and die like, not to be dramatic but it actually might be the worst word I've ever heard in my life and it really took me out of it. Besides that, the spice was great. It was hot but also intimate and emotionally charged (did someone say good girl trope?👀).

Now while this is very character driven you also get some great spying and espionage. I loved the way our two MCs bonded over books and spying! I did find some parts kind of dragged a bit, I would have preferred to see more active spying rather than just being told about it. And on a more serious note you get a very important look at racism, colourism and imperialism at that time. I also enjoyed the authors note at the end that provided some more factual information.

I really recommend this book for anyone who wants Bridgerton vibes with amazing Latin rep and/or character driven stories with beautiful romances!