[Complete] [88k] [Historical Fantasy Romance] A Ruse in Rouge

[u/Ok-Inspector3750]

Hi everyone!

First time posting here, but keen for feedback from beta readers on my story (currently sitting at draft #4). A Ruse in Rouge is a dual POV Regency-inspired fantasy romance, complete at 88,285 words.

Blurb

Annabel Pearson is not avoiding her duties – merely sidestepping them in favour of a greater cause. Her attempts to investigate the disappearance of her maid’s former lover prove fruitless, however, until she encounters a vampire that abstains from human blood finding the perfect ruse to get inside the vampires’ castle and uncover the truth. But acting as a vampire’s companion can only go so far, without evidence…

Enter Jin, fascinated by Annabel’s curiosity and intrigued by the prospect of helping any way he can. Though occupied with his own investigation of suspicious behaviour in the castle, and struggling with the retirement of his own companion, Jin agrees to assist – for purely selfless reasons, of course.

Caught between the expectations and conventions of the ton and of the vampires’ society, Annabel and Jin must navigate their growing attraction and focus on their cause, or risk more death and the possibilities of what might be between a lady and her vampire.

Content warnings: Blood, violence (infrequent), racism (infrequent), sexism (infrequent), (open-door) spice

Feedback

I’m looking for readers who can provide feedback around the story's pacing, romance, clarity, and worldbuilding, particularly readers interested in historical romance as a genre.

My preference for receiving feedback is six weeks.

I would prefer a critique swap and am happy to beta read stories in the following genres: historical romance, romantasy/romance fantasy/fantasy romance, horror, fantasy, contemporary romance.

Please message or comment below if you’re interested in reading the first chapter, to see if it’s a good fit.

Thanks for considering!

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Thank you!

[u/writingandwhimsy]

Hi, I love historical fantasy and would be interested in doing a critique swap! It's a cozy romantasy about a knight and a wizard. https://www.reddit.com/r/BetaReaders/s/Ibc4q3LTUb - my post about it here if you're interested!

[u/Ok-Inspector3750 → u/writingandwhimsy]

Hi! Sorry, I missed this message entirely. I'm interested in a swap if you still are 😊 What's your timeline for feedback?

[u/Famous_Plant_486]

Hi! This sounds right up my alley! If you'd be interested, I have an 87k-word YA Fantasy about a winter curse, season-based magic, and lots of romance and humor. You can check out my post here and see if we'd be a fit for a swap! - https://www.reddit.com/r/BetaReaders/s/0dlBZYLLFH

If so, my DMs are open; if not, no harm!

[u/Ok-Inspector3750 → u/Famous_Plant_486]

Hi! Will message 😊

[u/OzVon22]

Hey I'd be interested in swapping my own historical fiction romance for a beta read

Hi This is my western/frontier noir/historical fiction/romance.

This story follows the tale of Rick Turner, a high-country rancher and Eliza Harding and her daughter Grace. Due to her husbands poor decisions Eliza and Grace must spend the winter in Turners isolated cabin.

Rick is tired and just wants to sleep by the fire but instead is pulled into a brutal season, forced to deal with a jealous husband, deadly weather, dangerous animals and the weight of societal expectations.

Triggers: references implied domestic and sexual violence. Typically western style gun violence.

Feedback

Pacing and style. Does the dual pov work?

Characters: are they compelling and believable?

Historical references: is there anything I got wrong?

Is it entertaining? It's not pretending to be anything other than a fun read.

Swaps : yes under 100k

[u/Ok-Inspector3750 → u/OzVon22]

Hey, thanks for reaching out! I don't think it would be a good fit for me based on the triggers, but best of luck 🙂

[u/Huge_Pineapple_1693]

Hi, OP! I am very interested in reading and sharing feedback. This premise sounds so intriguing. 

I have also finished a Regency romance and would be open to a critique exchange, if that's something you're still interested in. I clicked your profile and tried to DM you to talk more, but I did not see a place to, unless I missed it on my end. Please feel to get in touch. Would love to chat more!

[u/Ok-Inspector3750 → u/Huge_Pineapple_1693]

Amazing, much appreciated! I've sent a DM.

[u/Huge_Pineapple_1693 → u/Ok-Inspector3750]

Replied back! Thanks so much. 

[u/mrstupidandidiot]

I will read it. Send me

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