Interesting book with a great story line however there was just something missing for me from this book. Don't get me wrong, this book is well written, and does not have any grammar or editing mistakes. I just could not connect with the storyline or the characters.
The book just did not have a historical romance feel in the plot. The lead female character, Lady Mary seemed like someone from modern times and placed in Regency England. Everyone loves this female and she does not have any rivals. No one has any fault with what she does or her talk about subjects that females do not talk about during this era. I love reading about strong female characters, but no matter how strong or independent everyone has either a rival or someone that does not like them.
During the beginning of the book, the female is in a man's bedroom after he tries to help someone from being hurt. This is understandable, however for the male to not be wearing a shirt and the female be allowed to touch and bind his ribs just does not sound like Regency England. There are people in the room, older adults, and no one finds anything wrong with Lady Mary being in the room.
Granted I am sure during that era just like today lots of families over looked female behavior and allowed them whatever they wanted. However no female or man is knowledgeable in every aspect of life. Lady Mary was knowledgeable in everything. To me the book read like Lady Mary was a super human without any faults.
I can understand Lady Mary enthralled Lord Osmond. However, it seemed like no matter what he never found fault with her actions. It seemed like Lady Mary did not have to fae the consequence of any actions.
Now, I did like the writing style of this author. I love reading historical romance. To me personally this would be a great book if the author allowed the female to have some faults. No one is perfect including fictional characters.
I was gifted with this book as part of the VBT. My opinions are my own and your opinions will differ from mine. To support this author please purchase this book and form your own opinion. ( )

I received a copy of this book from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I prefer my period romances with heroines who are not faint of heart and constrained by society. Mary, the heroine of this story is far from compliant with the restrictions placed on a woman of society in 1816 London. She is encouraged in her difference by her uncle, a diplomat for England, involved in the intrigue surrounding the court of Louis XVIII, after Napoleon’s banishment. Of course, diplomacy of that time involved some rather dubious ethical connections, and that is where Mary is introduced to her love interest, Hugh, Lord Ormond, who presents with impeccable English credentials, and has a penchant for subterfuge and the continued remove of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Mary is dragged, nearly kicking and screaming to the ‘mandatory’ events for a young woman of her station, even though she managed to delay her debut to her 19th year, and escapes to her country house repeatedly to “ride like the devil” clad in breeches and boots, upon her horse Midnight. Far from this being her only interest, Mary is an opinionated and well-read woman, full of input, ideas and opinions about everything that makes men cringe. Mary is a far more interesting character, especially since she has a sense of humour about her more outlandish presentations and theories.

I enjoyed this book: it was a fun read that beautifully described Paris of the time, including a wonderful homage to Notre Dame. The characters were quite well developed, especially the details that ran to the tone and tenor of the time in which the story was set. Scenes were beautifully described and detailed, creating description that led to imagining with little effort. The artful crafting of the character and plot enabled me to feel as though I was right there, on a shoulder so to speak, to follow the action.

For a first time author, this work was amazingly polished and masterful. As the first in a trilogy all centered on servants to the Crown, it is a stunning opening salvo. This was a winner on all fronts for me, and I look forward to book 2.
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Review to follow. ( )

Ms. Walker pens a historically accurate plot in "Racing with the Wind" with just enough action to keep you guessing untill the end. Her characters are strong and believable with passion. I totally enjoyed the book and looking forward to the sequel. Recommened for all who love a good historical romance filled with mystery and passion. ( )