"Had the stories been less exciting, she might have been able to resist. But adventure, mystery, romance, monsters, crime-the penny dreadfuls were as varied as they were irresistible."

Vera's thoughts on the penny dreadfuls are exactly my thoughts on them as well as The Dread Penny Society series they are woven into. Sarah M. Eden captures all that in her story telling and so much more. What I also love about this book is that even though this is book three, she continues to keep the narrative exciting, the characters unique and the "monsters" just as intense and captivating. The whole series is that way.

From the very start of the story this one takes a turn I was not expecting for Brogan, though maybe I should have from the title. But thank goodness it is the path for him because Vera, the urchins and all the adventures ahead could not be without the twists and turns. The kindness of both Brogan and Vera, the ability Brogan has to make people laugh around him, and their desire to make a difference make them a lovely couple who I came to adore.

Beautiful, exciting, spooky even, addition to The Dread Penny Society. Definitely a Victorian series to look into if you enjoy proper romances with more than just the romance. I highly suggest you read this series in order as characters are woven throughout the series that you'll want to be introduced to in proper order.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.

This series continues to be fun, but I still find it a little too sweet and surface-level for me to really love any of them (except for the first one). It's that same formular as the rest of the series, cameo appearances of characters from the previous books. The villain was interesting, and the story was a fun romp as usual. Definitely would recommend this for someone who is insterested in squeeky clean historical romance set in the mid-Victorian era.

My Thoughts:

This series of five books is complete. I had read #4 not long ago, but I’m so glad I took the chance to binge read the whole series in a week when I received the final ARC. You can read them as individual books, but the stories are so tightly interwoven that you really should get the whole five-story plot arc together.

And, while billed as “proper romance”, the romance is not, in my mind, the focus of the stories. There are mysteries to solve—each of the first four books lead us into the final showdown.

One common theme of this series is that everyone has a past that has made them who they are. For the most part, difficult pasts have led the focus characters to fight for right and to help the downtrodden, in a society that is still very much run by class.

We begin with a schoolmistress and a former street urchin turned author of “penny dreadfuls”, the lower-class literature that thrilled and entertained. But he’s also a member of a secret society of penny dreadful authors who fight crime (while sometimes committing a few crimes of their own in pursuit of the greater good).

We move on to a music teacher and a gentleman who also writes penny dreadfuls. Then to a bookseller/Russian émigré and an Irishman—again, a writer. And a doctor/writer and his secret wife, who comes from a crime family.

We end with the oddest pairing of all—a woman who committed murder and a police constable.

The mysteries are intriguing. As we learn more and more of the criminal mastermind, the fearsome Tempest, we also learn more of what makes our characters tick. The entire series plays out in a little over a year, and it is nice to be able to follow the aftermath of the prior books as each book moves along. Unlike some series romance, prior characters still play a part beyond name-dropping.

I especially looked forward to the final volume, as I wanted so much to know the why and the how of the formation of the Dread Penny Society. While this was explained, I felt like there could have been more. Likewise with the why of the Tempest’s quest for revenge, and why one particular traitor sold out the Dreadfuls.

I think the elements of intrigue were well-balanced with the romances. These were romances that were allowed to develop, based on admiration and companionship. Each had a reason why it might be impractical, but, despite danger and turmoil, love won the day.

There were many well-developed secondary characters in addition to the ten romantic leads. The street urchins, others of the Dreadfuls, family members—all added to the depth of worldbuilding.

As with other books published by Shadow Mountain, there is no cursing and the narration of the romantic interludes doesn’t progress beyond kissing.

One more note: Each of these books, in addition to the main narrative, contains two “penny dreadful” stories that parallel the main story. So Eden was really writing three stories every time!

Possible Objectionable Material:

Foul play, including thievery and murder, fighting, perilous situations, dishonesty, poverty.

Who Might Like These Books:

Fans of clean romance, Victorian London, mystery and adventure.

Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for providing ARCs of these books in exchange for my honest opinion.

These books are also reviewed at https://biblioquacious.blogspot.com/2023/04/a-penny-dreadful-for-your-thoughts.html

I appreciate the publisher allowing me to read this book. I found this book incredibly interesting the author really kept me hooked until the end. very well written I highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley and author Sarah M. Eden for a free E-arc of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. While this is the third installment of this series, this book can be read as a stand alone.
4 stars
This was a solid read. I have enjoyed how the author follows different members of this secret crime fighting society.
Brogan and Vera were such a great couple. The romance, while slow burn, was very realistic. Both of the main characters have such soft hearts towards the poor. The mystery surrounding the shops was really exciting and had me guessing who the bad guy was until the very end! The ending of this installment was well wrapped up, but left enough open to continue the series! I can't wait for the next installment.

Very entertaining and a unique voice when it. comes to the characters. I always enjoy this period and I appreciated what the author was trying to attempt to do.

Sarah’s books have never disappointed me and this one was no exception. This one was perfect for curling up on the couch with a cozy blanket and hot cocoa.

The penny dreadfully series is just not for me. I don't know what it is about them but I just haven't been able to sync with them. I tried picking this book up multiple times, but just couldn't commit. BUT if you have love this series this book is sure to be a pleaser. Sarah Eden's writing is always amazing and her character development is always so layered and intriguing

I didn't initially realise that this was part of a series as this book works well as a standalone. A decent piece of historical fiction and an overall enjoyable read.

An Irish immigrant living in London, Brogan is a member of a secret cabal of penny dreadful authors - the Dread Penny Society. They are vigilante do-gooders whose unknown leader, The Dread Master, gives their assignments. Brogan is tasked with discovering who or what is making the Russian Ambassador in London nervous. It somehow involves Russian immigrant Vera and her father, owners of a book and print shop. He gets a job in the shop under an assumed name because Vera and her father have a dislike of writers. Interspersed among this plot there is a back and forth of two penny dreadful stories. One written by Rogan, another from a character I believe was from a previous book in the series. They abruptly appear and take up much of the book. Involving the supernatural, beasts, etc. I liked the characters of Rogan and Vera. Both lonely and wanting someone in their life. Among the explosions, extortion, supernatural beasts, and arson, I would call this a gentle romance. A little too much of the slang word twig, twigging, and twigged. I bow to the achievement of narrator Justine Eyre for her London, Irish, Russian, and American South accents, both male and female!

Oh, this series! Once again, I applaud the author for writing stories within these novels as she includes the Penny Dreadfuls written by her characters.

Our hero is an earnest member of the Dread Penny Society, as one of their authors and a sort of vigilante in town. He’s competent, and the others believe in him, but he's unaware of his own strengths. He’s also undercover, which means, he can’t tell the heroine he writes the books she loves so much. What a fun element!

Our heroine is a strong shopkeeper who longs for adventure and love. She’s loyal to her father and helpful to her community. And she doesn’t trust liars.

The hero comes across as lonely and kind, someone readers will root for. He has sacrificed a lot, been misunderstood, and faces more of the same—with all of its pain. We want to see him happy and repaid for all his losses.

As we follow their story, the author treats us to lilting language. Each secondary penny dreadful has its own unique voice as well.

I liked the hero’s savvy sister. There were nuggets of wisdom throughout the novel that I highlighted as I read. The tricks of speech and jargon were fascinating as well, like these: “I’d not pour rumor broth in your ear…” and “spill your budget.” (both from location 2340 of the ARC, which may vary from the final published version) You can almost hear the characters’ varied accents while you read.

I recommend beginning with the first book in this series, so readers are less lost in this unusual story world.

There is always at least 3 mysteries going at once and to see them solved is a page turner. Reading the Penny dreadful stories along with the main story is always enjoyable. An entertaining read and I look forward to the next one.

Another delightful installment of the DPS (Dread Penny Society) and continuing not only the stories of those authors and their fun other halves but delving into two more penny dreadful LS enfolded in the books pages. Brogan and Vera's story is enchanting and fun filled action. From mistaken identities to rescuing the less fortunate to meandering into each of their mysterious past there is no page left unturned in this diverting story. Thanks go to Sarah for making these characters, both fictional and fictional fiction, come to life.

I've made a personal goal to
review all my books on netgalley. After tonight's review
I've got another one to write (finished it months ago
and I've been too lazy to write a review or take a
picture), one more book to read, and one that I'm
listening to and then I'll be all caught up!
The Merchant and The Rogue was a fun story set
during the Victorian Era. There are a few different
mysteries- one in the main story and 2 in the Penny
dreadful stories that take place throughout the novel.
Plus a love story.
I enjoyed it!

This is the third book in the Dread Penny Society and I really enjoyed it! I love how Sarah M. Eden intermixes Penny Dreadfuls with the storyline. Penny dreadfuls are mystery/thriller stories released to London in chapter installments for a penny a piece.The authors of these penny dreadfuls are part of the Dread Penny Society who seek to help the children and weak of London by getting bad guys off the street.

This book focuses on author Brogan Donnelly, an Irish native who came to London with his sister Móirín. Together they try to help in some of London's poorest areas. In order to honor a request from the Dread Master (the unknown head of the society) he resigns as a member and then gets a job at a print shop with Vera Sorokina and her father under the assumed name of Ganor O'Donnell.

As Vera's father hates authors, Brogan finds it necessary to keep his profession a secret. Despite this, Vera and Brogan develop a sweet friendship. He is reliable and kind to all. She is strong and a good leader in the neighborhood. Together they try to defend against a neighborhood "protector" while Brogan tries to discover what the Dread Master needs him to do in order to rid the city of some of the worst criminals. How are Vera and her father tied into it all? It is all very romantic, exciting and mysterious all mixed together! I highly recommend this books to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a little romance mixed in!

I received a complementary ebook from the publisher and netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

Another delightful installment in the Dread Penny Society.

Brogan Donnelly is asked to leave the Dread Penny Society in order to secure his cover in a covert operation to uncover dishonest dealings at a Russian print shop. Vera Sorokina works hard for her father, finding enjoyment in the Penny Dreadfuls that they sell at their shop. She is intrigued by their personable new employee who has a heart for the children working at the factories.

A thoroughly entertaining read, filled with adventure, mystery, and romance. As always I enjoyed the "bonus" stories given in the form of Penny Dreadfuls. I loved that Brogan has a big heart for others, and that he and his sister are so close and have a good relationship. Brogan is a kind man, creative, and outgoing. I loved how he and Vera got to know each other while working together.

Overall, an highly enjoyable read, full of mystery with a sweet romance, and wonderful recurring characters. A must read for fans of the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This suspenseful tale of unorthodox crime fighters in 1860's London is riveting. The characters are varied and complex. The most delightful part is two "penny dreadful" stories, written by two of the characters, intermixed with the plot. I have read the others in the series but this tale stands alone well. 4 1/2 stars!

This is a lovely historical mystery with an intriguing premise. I especially liked the sections of the book that are chapters of the Penny Dreadfuls! Entertaining.

Romance, sweet, mystery, period; Series, but stand alone read.
Sweet romance with a mystery in the mix! Perfect revisit to the The Dread Penny Society! Brogan's authorship of Penny Dreadfuls and his work with the Dread Penny Society lead him to come in contact with Vera. Their relationship, and Brogan's secret work for the DPS, lead them to interact more. They are both attracted to each other even when they aren't sure how it can possibly work between them.
S.E. does the clever story within the story well as Brogan's penny dreadful is told in installments in the novel. The plight of the street children, the worries and concerns of immigrants, and bullying them is discussed as part of the novel with Vera's immigrant heritage. Gothic elements, in addition to the suspense helped make this a perfect suspenseful mystery. A fun foray into the past with societal concerns, and the sweet romance and the novel with in the novel.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. My opinions are my own.

Review excerpted from my blog post over at Titillated Termagant Romance Reviews (https://titillatedtermagant.wordpress.com/2022/01/28/the-merchant-and-the-rogue-by-sarah-m-eden/)

My Rating: 3.5 stars

Library recommendation: Recommended for public library historical romance collections.

Warning: Hereafter, you chance spoilers. I will try never to reveal major plot points, but to review any book, you must reveal some parts of the story.

_____________

Number of titles I have read by this author: 1

Love story speed: Medium burn

Relationship dynamics: The Penny Dreadful Author (H) / The Print Shop Girl (h)

Physical descriptions: Brogan is described as having a muscular build, broad shoulders and “hair the color of burning embers.” Vera is described as being tall, with “Russian” features (although no elaboration is given on what this means, exactly).

Sexual content: None. A smidge of kissing.

Triggers: Gang violence; murder; blackmail; child neglect and abuse

Grammar/Editing: My ARC mostly had formatting issues that have hopefully been resolved in the final, published version.

Review: This is a very interestingly structured book, comprised of the main story and two penny dreadful serials interspersed throughout, one of which is attributed to the hero as author. Essentially, it is three stories in one volume: there are three different sets of characters and three different plots to follow, which means that the book becomes hard to follow if you aren’t reading it in one sitting or taking notes. If you are a “one-book-at-a-time” type of reader (as I am), this book may not be your cup of tea. That being said, it is set in a working class part Victorian London and the characters of the main story are lower middle class/working class people, which is a refreshing departure from the usual gentry and aristocracy featured in most historical romances.

Brogan and Vera are the main characters in the central story. They meet as Brogan is sent into her print shop undercover, and this secrecy really drives the tension in their relationship. They are otherwise an easy-going couple who take what comes at them from a position of strength (i.e. together). The real downside for these characters is that the structure of the narrative, as described previously, distracts from the focus on their relationship. I often found myself wishing to simply skip over the penny dreadfuls and go back and read them afterward so that I could keep focused. In terms of supporting characters, there are many who clearly appeared in previous books in the series. We receive enough information about these characters to understand their roles, but I suspect that the reading experience would be enriched if this series were read in order. The supporting characters unique to this story are well-enough developed, particularly Móirín (Brogan’s sister), although there were some obvious archetypes at play.

Full disclosure: I received a free advance review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.