I was so intrigued by Isabel from the first book in this series, so I was really excited when this title was announced. And it absolutely did not disappoint. Isabel is just a fantastic character—so brave, and so certain of exactly who she is. And Captain Dawson is the perfect romantic foil for her, outwardly a rake mostly to cover up the pain that lives in his heart. (Not to mention that he is one of the sweatiest male leads I’ve read in ages). I can’t wait for Gabby’s story next!!

I really liked the first book in this series, Ana Maria and the Fox, but I think I loved this one even more. It follows Ana’s younger sister, Isabel, who is quiet and studious and can sometimes be overlooked when compared to her charismatic sisters. She also has a secret assignment that she is pursuing for her home country of Mexico. Captain Sirius Dawson, is a war hero and spy who keep running across Isabel in places that she should not be. Both of these characters, but especially Sirius, are both well formed and interesting. This is just a very romantic story about a couple that you can’t help for root for. The background story about the French invasion of Mexico also serves as an interesting addition to the historical romance genre. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

✨Isabel and the Rogue Who just Wants to Talk about Books with Her✨

The romance felt like a cool 25% of the plot, but I enjoyed the rich history and the world De la Rosa created nonetheless. I would’ve loved an epilogue with more romance bits of them being happy because there wasn’t much of that in the book. It felt a bit like a spies and intrigue book, as most of it was filled with searching for French communications to aid Mexico, but it wasn’t action-packed if that makes sense.

Since Isabel and Sirius were at odds for a lot of the book, the ending was very sweet and rewarding. Again, I’d have liked more romance because the two were HOT. In terms of style, it’s definitely not a departure from Ana María and the Fox (also light on romance), but it was definitely a notch hotter on the spicy scale.

Once the story reached 50%, I’d say that’s when the heavy-lifting of the romance started. I was a bit surprised when they canoodled under that desk because it was suuuuper slow burn before that. I was like this is their first kiss??? It was hot and I wasn’t complaining, I was just like okay girl get it you had me in the first half but get it nonetheless.

I think it could’ve used a bit more chemistry-heavy moments in the first half to really make the romance burn for me all the way through. Tension was a little lacking for me since the spy/intelligence plot was very slow and waiting on letters to be sent and received—i.e. weeks in between. Adding more romance moments would’ve rounded the story out nicely, upped the tension, and picked up the pace a little.

I wanted Isabel to gain maybe a bit more confidence by the end of the book? Lady Needham was a racist twat and she was never really told off (Sirius could’ve done more too). It was a bit exasperating when Isabel still didn’t believe Sirius was attracted to her, but boy did he rise to the challenge 🔥

I really loved Isabel’s ever growing relationship with her sisters and can’t wait for Gabby’s book. I’m excited for her confidence and personality to shine! I’m very interested in what her story is going to entail—definitely something with her work for women. I hope that man is just following her around like a little puppy.

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5


Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.

I feel like I stopped and started this one several times and just couldn't get into it. I think it might have been because nothing happened right away or I haven't gotten to the first book yet so I may have been missing something? I may come back to this once I have finished the first book, but for now, it is a soft DNF.

Bridgerton with a twist.

I did not read the first book in this series before this one, but it did not effect my understanding of the story too much since it deals with its own couple.

Isabel is the wallflower of the English ton and is working behind the scenes to help subvert the French Occupation of Mexico in the 1860's. I enjoyed how real history was thrown into this tale.

I did giggle a little about a main character named Sirius, not going to lie. It is just an uncommon name to come across.

The slow build between Isabel and Sirius was fun and it caused me to spend a bit of time just screaming for them to start kissing each other.

Overall, a good story for fans of Bridgerton or Historical Romances in general.

In the author's notes for this book, Liana De la Rosa explains the journey of finding Isabel, first introduced as a "Jan Brady type" (a middle sibling who's the overlooked, slightly bitter, bookish stick-in-the-mud) and evolving into a heroine who finally finds her purpose - and people who won't underestimate her. She's the overachiever whose achievements are both expected and overlooked, and she gets to the point of projecting that same disappointment onto herself. For anyone who's ever felt even a shred of that, seeing Isabel come into her own AND get a HEA is a powerfully emotional experience.

Her chemistry with Sirius, a captain-turned-spy whose investigations overlap with hers, isn't just super-hot (although... that under-the-desk scene is going to stay with me for a LONG time). It's a romance that brings out the best in both of them; they both want to see the other shining and successful and happy. Sirius *sees* Isabel and, what's more, he nudges her to truly see herself for the glorious person she is. And that, my friends, is love.

I also would be remiss if I didn't mention how this book deftly layers mid-19th century politics onto its ballrooms-and-libraries romance setting. The backdrop of the whole series is the disastrous imperialist interventions of Europe in Mexico, and the story never fails to remind us of its fiercely anti-colonialist, anti-paternalist perspective. This is a book that is just as passionate about justice as it is about the love between its characters, and that makes it even better with each page I turn.

Just finished reading Isabel and the Rogue, such a beautiful story. When I met Isabel in Ana Maria and The Fox I knew she would be my favorite sister and I was right! We all know an Isabel, some of us are Isabel, it was so rewarding to see her not only find a happily ever after, but also find herself and her purpose.

The way that Liana De la Rosa writes historical fiction is really refreshing. In both of her books about the Luna sisters, I felt as if I was getting a completely different perspective on the time period, and that on its own is so exciting and lovely to read. I think that in terms of the relationship, I love the trope between the bookworm x rogue, and it was extra fun that this one was subverted (the good captain is a rogue for ESPIONAGE), but they burned a little too quick for me and there was less emotional resonance to their dynamic that Ana Maria and Gideon had. I still really enjoyed this one and absolutely cannot wait for Gabby's story. This series is bursting with color and full of heart!

Thank you to @lianainbloom for the ARC of Isabel and the Rogue! I absolutely adored Ana María and the Fox and was thrilled when this book hit my email! I ATE IT UP! The angst! The tension! The chemistry! That ✨UNDER THE TABLE SCENE✨ 🥵 Everything about this historical romance had me 😍😍😍😍 I highly recommend you all to meet the Luna sisters! I can’t wait for Book 3 because I just KNOW Gabby and the Duke are gonna bring it! 😅 Isabel and the Rogue is out June 4, 2024!

Sirius Dawson, what have you done?

OMG! I LOVE HIM!

A Latinx Victorian romance that defies the norms of society. What an ending! I cannot stop thinking about it. To me, Isabel and the Rogue set a new benchmark for romance. I need Isabel Luna and Sirius Dawson on screen!

Isabel Luna, the bookish, diffident, and uninteresting middle sister, longs to prove her worth. And what better way to demonstrate her usefulness than by assisting her beloved Mexico? With the help of Sirius Dawson, a war hero employed by the Home Office, Isabel is committed to supporting the resistance efforts. Of course, if working closely with the dashing captain leads to garnering knowledge of the deliciously wicked kind, neither Isabel nor I are complaining.

But Captain Sirius Dawson would rather be relaxing in his study with a good book. Leaving Isabel unprotected in her perilous quest, however, is simply unacceptable. Look, Sirius is a first-rate romance hero. He takes care of people. Behind his carefree exterior exists a wounded soul. Sirius not only loves Isabel, but he also encourages her to dream, boosts her confidence, allays her fears, and sets her free! He goes the distance, and then some more, to prove his love.

“You’re dazzling. Your sisters shine . . . but Isabel, you’re the entire night sky.”

Liana De la Rosa blends politics and espionage with tender moments of love and searing passion rendering Isabel and the Rogue an indelible read. The writing is enchanting and engrossing. One of my favorite parts is the anti-colonial theme that permeates the narrative. It is highly relevant to the present. In one scene, Isabel raises a compelling question: “Why is it that there is a responsibility to things and not to people?”

Moreover, Isabel and the Rogue is an ode to introverted book lovers (Hello! It’s ME!!). Books are an integral part of Isabel and Sirius’s romance. The vibrant cover captures the essence of their love story to perfection, considering most of their interactions take place in a library, study, or at a bookstore. I love the exhilarating yet tender balloon scene. With richly developed characters, delectable romance, and endearing sisterhood, historical romance lovers will devour this book. It deserves all the love and hype. A favorite of 2024! I am super excited for Gabby’s book.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for the e-ARC, and a huge thank you to Liana De la Rosa for writing this beautiful romance. I loved it!

As the middle sister of a prominent and wealthy family, quiet and bookish lsabel is used to being ignored and underestimated. Exiled with her sisters in London due to the French intervention in Mexico, she decides to use her low profile to her advantage- as a spy to assist the cause of the democratically elected president and Mexico’s first Indigenous head of state.

But she’s not as invisible as she thinks. At least not to Captain Sirius Dawson, who’s reputation of being a rake is known to all. As undeniably handsome and charming as he may be, Isabel rejects his attentions to focus on her mission to get the necessary political intelligence to save her family and her country.

When she finds that Sirius is also an undercover agent who’s cause intersects with hers, she reluctantly agrees to work with him. As their alliance deepens, she finds it harder to resist him, and has to figure out whether the love growing between them is real, or if it's merely another game for the roguish captain.

In this exquisitely written second installment of The Luna Sisters series, set two years after the first, De la Rosa again skillfully blends elements of Historical Fiction and Romance, transporting readers to Victorian England with a complex and compelling Latinx protagonist.

Such a great historical title. I’m not huge into these types of books but Bridgerton really changed my perspective. I loved seeing the Mexican nationality get recognized. I enjoyed the character and storyline. It kept me in suspense until the last page. Highly recommend and enjoy. Will be sharing more soon!

Thank you to netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley for allowing me to read this book. I loved to see these type of characters in this time period.

A solid 4. In this second installment of three for The Luna Sisters series, we follow Isabel, the often-overlooked bookish middle sister. But this woman is more wanderer than wallflower. She uses her stealth skills to sneak into the private offices of British nobility and political elite. She encounters trouble in the form of a former military officer Sirius. Liana De la Rosa does not disappoint with this sequel. Filled with romantic entanglements, she adds deepth to this overlooked second sister. After the first novel, and given this book would focus around Isabel's work as a spy, I was expecting a bit more action and conflict than delivered. A times, I felt the book focused too much on the internal battles that the characters were facing. That should not deter anyone from picking up this book however. The Luna Sisters is one of my favorite historical romance series because it informs me about the war for independence in Mexico in the 1860s as they fight the colonizing French leadership. I appreciate the author's attention to historical detail and the strong women she centers her work around. I can't wait to read the third and final book in this series (as well as anything else De la Rosa writes)!

“When a Mexican heiress defies Victorian society to protect her country a British war hero makes it his new mission to protect her…” Isabel and The Rogue by Liana De La Rosa is exactly what I’m searching for in historical romances The way Liana imbues history, familial ties, and love is wonderful. I read Ana María and The Fox this year a fell in love with all three sisters but I felt a special connection to Isabel. Her story did not disappoint. She got everything she deserved and it was such a joy getting to see her character arc. Captain Sirius Dawson our rogue was Isabel’s perfect counterpart. He was kind, gentle, and took the time to get to know Isabel. What I loved about them both is that they both grew to be and accept what made them so special and worth love. I loved the bond between Gabby and Isabel it’s explored more and from sisters who were always pitted against each other while growing up to the bond that they share and nurture now was beautiful to see. If you’re looking to read historical romance look no further than Isabel and The Rogue. 4.5⭐️

"Isabel and the Rogue" by Liana De la Rosa is a captivating historical romance that blends espionage, political intrigue, and undeniable passion. Set against the backdrop of Victorian society and the French Occupation of Mexico, the novel follows the story of Isabel Luna Valdés, a Mexican heiress determined to protect her country, and Captain Sirius Dawson, a rakish British war hero with a penchant for uncovering secrets.

Isabel, often overlooked as the "forgotten" Luna sister, uses her familial connections to the Mexican ambassador in London to discreetly gather British intelligence that could aid Mexico in its struggle against the French. Her unassuming facade hides a sharp mind and a determined spirit. When she crosses paths with Captain Sirius Dawson, a covert agent for the British Home Office, their worlds collide in unexpected ways.

The chemistry between Isabel and Sirius is palpable from the start, and their interactions are infused with tension, witty banter, and a mutual attraction that becomes impossible to ignore. De la Rosa crafts their relationship with depth and authenticity, allowing readers to become invested in the emotional journey of these well-developed characters.

The spy angle adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, as Sirius navigates the complexities of espionage while Isabel becomes entangled in a dangerous game to protect her country. The pacing is well-executed, and the story maintains a balance between romance and suspense. The historical setting is vividly portrayed, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Isabel's determination to safeguard Mexico, even at the cost of her own heart, adds a layer of complexity to her character. The novel explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the clash of loyalties, creating a compelling narrative that goes beyond the conventions of a typical historical romance.

The supporting characters, including the Luna family and a cast of intriguing secondary figures, contribute to the overall richness of the story. The author weaves together a tapestry of relationships and alliances that enhances the narrative and sets the stage for potential future installments.

In summary, "Isabel and the Rogue" is a well-crafted historical romance that combines passion, intrigue, and a strong sense of historical context. Liana De la Rosa's storytelling skill shines through, delivering a compelling love story set against the backdrop of political turmoil and espionage. Fans of historical romance will find much to enjoy in this engaging and heartfelt novel.

I can’t remember which of my favorite authors recommended this one, but I’m so grateful I trusted their judgment. I hadn’t realized this was a series when I started it, but I was able to fall in love with all of the characters and keep up very easily with the story and relationships. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s writing style and her characters. And this is yet another historical romance that taught me a piece of history I had never previously learned, namely the conflict between France and Mexico. Can’t wait to read Gabby’s story next and perhaps go back to Ana Maria’s!

Thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for the ARC.

LOOOOOOVED! Every last word—loved!

Thank you very much to Berkley for the early copy of this! I confess, while I was excited for the first book in this series, I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped. This, however, I could not get enough of it! Isabel and Sirius are wonderful main characters and I absolutely adored their chemistry. Also lowkey obsessed with the fact that the quiet little bookworm has the steamier story by a mile over her older sister.

The spy angle was interesting, even if it didn't really up the stakes for the story very much. It's hard to get pressed about bad news when it took two weeks for the letter to reach England from Mexico, and then another two weeks to send a response back. But I love what it did for the character and relationship development. No notes! And that ending was PERFECT.

I do wish the writing was a little bit stiff, but I guess if it's emulating the 19th century I really can't get mad about it. That said, I am now extra excited for the youngest sister's story because that girlie is bagging herself a duke, even if she hates him now.

Please Berkley gods, take pitty on my poor soul and let me have this physical arc 😭😫 I love them so much your honor!!! I will sell my soul to whoever I need to for Isabel and Sirius to sit in my shelf next to Ana Maria and Gideon 🥺
———————

5⭐️ 1.5🌶️

I have never felt more like an empty shell of a person after finishing a book as I have with this one. I’ve spent all day starring at the ceiling, unable to do much. I have tried to go back to the other books I was reading and I cannot find anything that comes remotely close to what this book did for me and my brain chemistry. I feel utterly empty inside. There’s a reading slump coming, and this book is to blame for it.

“I had no notion you kept track of my smiles”
“They’re such rare events . . . and they change your face so completely, it’s hard not to pay attention.”

ANAOWKIQQNA I WANT SOMEONE TO KEEP TRACK OF MY SMILES 😫😫😫😫😫

Liana De La Rosa does it again. I really shouldn’t be surprised when I loved Ana Maria and The Fox as much as I did but she really took the cake home with Isabel and The Rogue. There is no better feeling that seeing yourself in a character in a book you love and I related so much to Isabel, I actually got emotional and cried a bit with certain parts.

I am so thankful to Liana for writing the hero/love interest the way she did because out of the three sisters, Isabel always felt so unseen and unworthy. Like her existence was never acknowledged and eyes simply past her with little to no regard to her and here comes this blue eyed blonde man (I KNOWWWW WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT!! Me in love with a blonde MMC) and sees her to such depth she can’t help but fidget when he looks at her. Sirius saw everything and he fell head over heels for Isabel and I fell even deeper for the both of them and their story. He is the definition of “if he wanted to he could” 🥹

I love Liana’s writing. She has such beautiful prose and this way to mix historical events with important issues in the modern world. The scene at the museum with Isabel and Gabi talking about how colonizers swop in and take other countries treasures to “protect them when their own people can’t” instead of bringing aid to the people was just.. mind blowing and smart and incredible to see. The romance is beautiful, but the things in between lines are the most gorgeous parts of Liana’s writing.

“Why do you call me sunshine?” Sirius lifted his head and sat back on his haunches, a small frown on his lips. “Because everything seems brighter when you’re there.”

This man and his slowly developing love for Isabel was absolutely everything. He showed her in such detail. I will never stop thanking Liana for having him recite her poetry 😮‍💨😮‍💨 and the WHEN he does it and HOW?? Lord I was too weak. There was no way I was surviving this book. Sirius had that comforting trope all around him and he wasn’t afraid to show it.

And the spice? LORD HAVE MERCY…. I was wondering how these two were going to come together given Ana Maria and Gideon had a marriage of convenience trope and I didn’t see that happening here and then boom spice came at me at the most unexpected moment and had me blushing so hard my ears were red as a boiled lobster and about a million degrees 🥵 I love a good sneaking around and boy oh boy did these two nailed 🤭 that part of the romance. And as hot as I found it, it was also just beautiful. They fit together so beautifully and complement their personalities so well.

I finished the book in tears and sobs because the ending was perfection. I was so consumed by it that I turned the next page on my kindle ready for more and sobbed when I saw just the author’s note. What do you mean is over?! What do you mean I don’t get one last kiss? One last time of Sirius being both of us to our knees with his sweet and loving words?! I needed so much more of them. To have to wait until 2025 for the final book in the series is the cruelest thing anyone has done to me.

P.S. The little snippets Liana has been giving us about Gabi and Whitfield since book one, and specially in this one, have me in my knees begging anyone who will listen to just let me have her book already. I’ve lived the tension and banter in both books but I just know Gabi and her retorts and cleverness is going to bring us all to our knees so hard we’ll need to get them surgically put back together.

Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"Isabel and The Rogue" by Liana De la Rosa is a captivating historical romance set in Victorian-era London, offering a refreshing twist by featuring a Mexican heiress as its protagonist. The novel follows Isabel Luna Valdés, a determined woman on a mission to aid Mexico during the French Occupation, and Captain Sirius Dawson, a rakish British covert agent. Their paths cross in a thrilling blend of espionage, societal intrigue, and undeniable attraction.

De la Rosa's writing is elegant and immersive, vividly bringing to life the grand ballrooms and shadowy corners of Victorian London. The multicultural aspect, particularly the portrayal of Isabel as a Mexican heiress navigating the complexities of British society, adds a unique and compelling layer to the narrative. Her character is skillfully developed, blending intelligence, courage, and vulnerability in a way that makes her both relatable and admirable.

The chemistry between Isabel and Sirius is electric, with their initial encounters marked by witty banter and a palpable tension. Sirius, as a charismatic and cunning agent, is a perfect match for Isabel's sharp mind and determination. Their romance develops beautifully, with an engaging mix of passion and emotional depth.

The espionage element of the novel is well-crafted, adding suspense and intrigue to the romantic plot. Isabel's search for intelligence to aid Mexico and Sirius's own covert activities create a backdrop of political and societal tension that enhances the story's complexity.

However, readers seeking a traditional historical romance may find the espionage and political aspects of the story somewhat overwhelming. Additionally, the novel’s pacing can occasionally feel uneven, with some plot points developed more thoroughly than others.

Content warnings for themes of espionage, political intrigue, and societal constraints are appropriate. "Isabel and The Rogue" will appeal most to readers who enjoy historical romances with strong, intelligent protagonists, multicultural perspectives, and a blend of romance and intrigue.

In conclusion, "Isabel and The Rogue" by Liana De la Rosa is a richly woven historical romance that offers a delightful mix of passion, intrigue, and cultural depth. Its engaging characters, evocative setting, and compelling plot make it a standout read for fans of the genre.