This book was a lot of fun–and that’s not something that you would immediately think when you read the plot synopsis. I mean, someone is possibly trying to kill Ben and Ben is in love with the girl his brother is pursuing. Things could definitely take a turn for the dark but they never do and I think that’s where Anstey’s talent for writing shines the best. She has this ability to keep things light and captivating all the same.

I did find that this book did suffer from a little too much filler at times. Not that I minded too much since I adored the characters (truly, they make this novel!) and any scene they were in but I did find it dulled the suspense of the sabotage. The sabotage is more subtle than I anticipated it would be though it did bring excitement to the plot.

Despite there being a bit of a love triangle/square situation happening, I couldn’t get enough of the romance! Again, this has to do with the great cast because I seriously loved everyone and hated to see anyone hurt. But you can’t deny the chemistry that lies between certain characters more than others. I love longing glances between characters and when the inner monologue drifts off as the character becomes absolutely smitten with the other. The romance here was simply perfect.

Honestly, Cindy Anstey is the bar when it comes to writing fantastic, entertaining YA historical fiction. She always has a fabulous blend of romance, danger and wit that I’ve yet to come across in another book. This one is definitely another win!

Suitors and Sabotage is the "protagonist falls in love with wrong person" story with a twist - a mysterious someone is out to get the "wrong person." Imogene Chively is a young woman who dreams of pursuing her passion of art, but who must instead entertain a suitor whom she met during the latest London season. Luckily she has her best friend Emily by her side. When her suitor arrives with his brother, there is an instant attraction - with the brother. Hijinks and heartbreak ensue, and although it involves fairly common YA tropes, the mystery saboteur was not easy to predict. A fun read perfect for vacation or just a break between more intense books.

Thank you Netgalley for an advance copy of this book. Suitors and Sabotage had everything I enjoy in a historical romance--namely, some excellent, heart-pounding tension between Ben and Imogene. It took a few chapters for me to get into the story and I did very much predict how the "mystery" would end, but sometimes you want to be able to predict it. Anyway, the author got the romance down perfect and that's what matters most to me. It was a sweet, fun romance that anyone who's a fan of the genre will love.

Historical-Romance novel set in the 1800's. This is not my typical read but i stayed intrigued becasuse the romance in this was not heavy, overbearing, or mushy.

Lets break down the love triangle, well more like square (lol) : Imogene (which i love btw) is suppose to be getting engaged to Ernest, which is Benjamin's brother. Imogene instead has fallen for Benjamin and he for her. (Oh steamy) Emily which is Imogene's bestie has also fallen madly in love with Benjamin. LET THE GAMES BEGIN! HAHA!

This novel was pretty fast-paced, it kinda got right into the mist of it all pretty quickly. This was my first read by this author and i think she did a wonderful job. This novel entertained me, made me fall in love with characters,made me hate characters, made me laugh, made me sad, and in the end i felt sad it was over. Overall i would not only recommend this novel to Historical-Romance fans but to anyone of any genre preference.

Thanks to NetGalley and everyone involved.

Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's/Swoon reads for providing this free eARC.

I haven't read other Cindy Anstey titles, but picked this one on the strength of the fun title, cover art, and descriptions that mentioned Jane Austen. I don't think the book lived up to the promise of these things.

Here's the deal with this one - Imogene and Emily are best friends, practically sisters. Imogene loves art and is the more retiring of the two. Their world is rocked when brothers Ben and Ernest (who Imogene is expected to marry), an architecture apprentice, and the heir to an estate and title respectively, come to visit and both girls develop feelings for Ben. This love square is further complicated by the titular sabotage being perpetrated on Ben.

I think the real issue with this book was that the characters didn't have enough dimension and they weren't honest with each other. Emily and Imogene could have avoided a lot of angst if they'd just TALKED, and I didn't like that part of the conflict in the book was the specter of the girls (who are supposed to be very close) getting into a fight over a boy. Emily in particular was criminally underwritten - she was basically the more flighty friend for Imogene and nothing else. The sabotage also felt like it had no stakes, actually, nothing in this book felt like it had stakes (except when the dog was in peril and during the funal sabotage on a boat). There were times I had fun in the manors they traipse through (the play and some of the scenes of drawing lessons come to mind), but overall, this book felt like a wee bit of a slog that just didn't catch hold of me.

I did not finish Suitors and Sabotage because it was too trivial and flitting for my reading preferences. There was no purpose and it was just too inconsequential.

Imogene is expected to become engaged to Ernest Steeple but immediately becomes infatuated with her brother once she meets him. When a serious accidents start happening to Ben, Imogene suspects foul play. Ben is an architecture student with a secret that draws him closer to Imogene. But who would be interested in harming Ben. Suitors and Sabotage is an old fashioned closed door mystery with a dash of romance as Imogene fights her attraction to Ben since there's nothing objectively wrong with Ernest other than he does not make her heart flutter. As we watch Imogene navigate how to act around Ben we meet her family and friends, many of whom become suspects in the mystery. Anstey excels at making the residences at the center of the mystery come alive. Suitors and Sabotage is a fair play mystery that encourages readers to follow along. Yet readers are also vested in which brother will Imogene pick. A fun cozy historical mystery that is a quick read. Plus while there is a hint of danger and romance there's not any blood or anything more than a kiss.

(I received an ARC of this book on NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.)

This book was fine, just fine. I probably wouldn't have read it if I'd realized I'd already read a book by this author. It delivers on its promise that there are, in fact, both suitors and sabotage.

Other than that, this book is nothing special. Imogene is being courted by Older Brother, but it's really Younger Brother who has her heart. But Best Friend also likes Younger Brother, and Older Brother is a nice guy, and she doesn't want to hurt his feelings... so there's a lot at stake. I said to my wife "Wow! Cindy Anstey has really painted herself into a corner" and I was super excited to see how things would resolve without one or more parties never speaking to each other again... well, Anstey just walks right over the wet paint in the fourth quarter and doesn't even seem to look at her shoes. So... yeah.

It’s a fine little book to read on a plane or train, but nothing special.

Suitors and Sabotage is Cindy Anstey’s third novel. I was very excited about the opportunity to read this book because I’ve enjoyed her other books. The novels are unconnected, but they all take place in Regency England, which is one of my favorite historical eras.

Imogene Chively has just finished her first Season in London, and is looking forward to spending the summer with her family and friends as they take turns hosting each other at a series of house parties. One of her suitors has received permission to visit her; Imogene is not particularly interested in pursuing a courtship with the young man, but she doesn’t really have much of a choice in the matter. When the earnest young man- named Ernest, of course- arrives, he brings his brother Ben along as well.

Imogene discovers that she has a lot more in common with Ben. They develop a rapport quickly, and Imogene agrees to give Ben art lessons to bolster his skills as a budding architect.

There are several problems, however: Imogene is supposed to be furthering her acquaintanceship with Ernest. Furthermore, Imogene’s friend Emily quickly becomes infatuated with Ben. And finally, Ben seems to experience so many accidents that they can no longer be dismissed as a series of unfortunate coincidences. Someone is determined to keep Ben away- but from whom?

The tone of this book is relatively light, and because it has been marketed to a YA audience, the content is much tamer than the typical historical romance. In keeping with the Austen-inspired motif, there is nothing more than kissing between the characters. This doesn’t mean that there is any less tension; Anstey is quite handy with the angst as characters try to figure out what they want, and how they can achieve their goals without hurting other people.

I would absolutely recommend Suitors and Sabotage. This book transcends its genre, and I think it will appeal to historical romance fans of all ages. The mystery is quite compelling; I found myself surprised by the reveal of the villain. Anstey does a good job with characterization and she has created an immersive Regency world. As I’ve mentioned, the previous books are not connected, so you don’t have to read any of Anstey’s other books before reading this one. Anstey is one of my favorite authors, and I am already looking forward to her next book.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book.

My favorite of Astley's regency romance mysteries yet. Imogen, a shy-but-artistically talented (and of course beautiful) young woman must get to know her good-hearted suitor Ernest and his charming brother Ben. I wish her friendship with Emily got more page time, and there was a fair deal of handwaving about the likelihood of "the younger set" being left alone and on first name basis as much as they were. But a great deal of fun. The identity of the saboteur genuinely kept me guessing until the reveal!

3.5 stars: Cute historical fiction romance. Enjoyable, but I would have liked the mystery to be a bigger plot point. The romance was also a little to insta-love for me.

A delightful, clean book. Nice light reading set in Regency times.
I received an electronic copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

Suitors and Sabotage by Cindy Anstey
Publisher: Swoon Reads
Publication Date: April 17, 2018
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher

Summary (from Goodreads):

Shy aspiring artist Imogene Chively has just had a successful Season in London, complete with a suitor of her father's approval. Imogene is ambivalent about the young gentleman until he comes to visit her at the Chively estate with his younger brother in tow. When her interest is piqued, however, it is for the wrong brother.

Charming Ben Steeple has a secret: despite being an architectural apprentice, he has no drawing aptitude. When Imogene offers to teach him, Ben is soon smitten by the young lady he considers his brother's intended.

But hiding their true feelings becomes the least of their problems when, after a series of "accidents," it becomes apparent that someone means Ben harm. And as their affection for each other grows—despite their efforts to remain just friends—so does the danger. . .

What I Liked:

It's no secret that I love Cindy Anstey's books! YA historical romance - how delightful! I am a huge adult historical romance junkie, and these YA HR novels are giving me LIFE. Suitors and Sabotage is Anstey's third YA HR standalone (all three books are unrelated, completely standalone novels and not companion novels), and it's safe to say that her books are all fun and swoony to read. I'm very excited about this new one being printed in hardcover! Anstey deserves this and more!

This story starts with Imogene's suitor Ernest Steeple arriving a day earlier than expected, with his younger brother Benjamin Steeple. Imogene is expected to accept Ernest's offer whenever the young man proposes, as he is her only suitor. She and Ernest barely know each other, hence why Ernest has arrived to visit. As Imogene gets to know Ernest, she realizes that she can't see herself sharing a life with the man. Instead, she sees Ben, the architecture apprentice, the charming, teasing young man who puts everyone at ease and makes all the ladies laugh. But someone is trying to sabotage Ben, and for what reason, Imogene and Ben can't understand. It's only a matter of time before something truly dangerous occurs... not unlike falling in love!

I was actually a little nervous about this one because I figured there would be a love triangle of some sort. But there really wasn't! Ernest is doing his duty in trying to find a wife, and the more Imogene gets to know him, the more she realizes that she would grow to like him... as a friend. There was never any competition or real "love triangle", because not once did Imogene develop feelings for Ernest, and Ernest, well, he wanted a wife but I'm not certain he specifically wanted Imogene.

This type of romance is always tricky, involving two brothers and a woman. But I thought Anstey navigated it perfectly. I like forbidden romance but hate it when it involves two brothers. But this romance seemed to work; Imogene was never "unfaithful" to her suitor, but her feelings for Ben grew nonetheless. And Ben never betrayed his brother, but his own feelings grew.

As is Anstey's style, the romance was sweet, adorable, swoony, and very subtle. There weren't passionate kisses or steamy chemistry, but there was plenty of rising interest and subtle tension. Ben and Imogene clicked, and they began a solid friendship, which turned into more.

Ben is an upstanding gentleman, and Imogene is a kind and shy lady. Their personalities worked well together, especially with Ben being so lively and fun, and Imogene being a quiet dreamer. Ben is studying to be an architect and Imogene wants to teach art - their passions are not always looked kindly upon, but they follow their dreams nonetheless.

The story was full of charm, subtle swoon, and a little bit of mounting drama! The drama being all of the "incidents" that keep occurring, of which Ben was in the middle. Someone is trying to sabotage Ben and he ends up getting hurt several times. But why?

Also worth noting is how Anstey's books are always subtly feminist and in a very positive but not-in-your-face way. I love that Imogene wants to follow her dreams of being an art teacher - and I love how Ben acts like this is the most normal thing in the world (remember the time period), and he can see his life with her and both of their careers. This was fantastic!

All in all, this novel was a delight to read. I had nothing to be worried about, and I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction romp. The ending is perfectly lovely and definitely a HEA, so no worries there either. I am continuously impressed by Anstey!

What I Did Not Like:

I so wanted a bit of a romance for a certain character (you can guess who), but I suppose I can create one in my head. Not a huge complaint, but it would have been nice!

Would I Recommend It:

I highly recommend this book and any of Anstey's novels, if you like historical fiction/historical romance. Adult HR fans will LOVE this YA HR novel. It isn't full of kisses and chemistry and passion BUT it is a fun and sweet romance novel set in the 1800s. These books are simply lovely to read, and I can't get enough!

Rating:

4 stars. I cannot wait to read Carols and Chaos, Anstey's next YA HR novel! I'm excited that it will be publishing in September - a shorter turnaround than usual. Swoon Reads, please keep publishing Anstey's books! And keep up the good work with these A+++ covers.

Soft and fluffy Regency romance that was a bit silly for my taste. I was strongly reminded of the works of Marion Chesney and M.C, Beaton, so fans of those authors might quite like this.

An adorable Regency era romance that hooks you quickly! The characters swoon worthy (especially the charming Mr. Benjamin Steeple). and paced perfectly.

Benjamin Steeple is super charming. I loved him. Imogen was super determined and got stuff done! I've recently gotten into historical fiction and I would have to say this one was a good one!

I mean.....it was cute. Definitely my least favorite of Anstey's books, I think, but it's an enjoyable little read.

Imogene’s father has strongly suggested she get acquainted with Mr. Ernest Steeple, as he finds the young man perfect for her. However, as the week unfolds, Imogene finds herself more drawn to Ernest’s brother, Benjamin. Things are complicated further when it becomes apparent that someone means to harm Benjamin.

Fans of light romantic tension will relish Antsey’s story. Teens who enjoy the drama of the first romantic encounter and mistaken romantic intentions within a historical back drop will rejoice. Readers will cherish their ability to make their own decisions as Imogene is locked within the expectations and inherent acceptance of the behaviors of young ladies and gentlemen of polite society. You realize that helicopter parenting is not something new and teens will identify with Imogene’s struggles.

This was my third book by Anstey I've read. This book took major effort on my part to press forward and finish this. The characters and plot were ok just too time to build. falling in love over drawing lessons was different for recency reads. I love how Anstey titles the chapters! Thank you for the advance copy of this book.

Cindy Anstey has followed up Duels and Deceptions with another great tale of young love in Regency England. The historical romance follows Imogene and her friend Emily during a summer of visits to family and friends estates along with the Steeple brothers, Ben and Ernest. Ernest the older brother is courting Imogene but Ben has fallen hard for her. Emily has a crush on Ben and much fuss ensues.
A comedy of errors to rival Much Ado About Nothing is a fun read for cold winter day. Great for adult historical romance readers and teens.