The Scout and the Scoundrel Read online

  The Scout and the Scoundrel

  Synopsis

  Zara del Amanecer’s purpose in life is to do her duty, whether as a noble or a scout. She never shirks her responsibilities, especially with missions as simple as this one: to reconnoiter the border with the Firellian Empire and report anything suspicious. Easily done, even with a new recruit conscripted from prison. Never mind that Veronique the thief ignites unfamiliar feelings in Zara, from furious loathing to overwhelming desire.

  Roni can’t stop imagining how passionate Zara would be if she thought less about duty, or even if she cared more about survival. Because the Firellians have a new magical weapon no one suspected, and they’re not about to let anyone who’s seen it get out alive. In the sights of an empire planning invasion, Zara and Roni’s principles might not be the only things sacrificed.

  Book 2 in the Sisters of Sarras Trilogy

  What Reviewers Say About Barbara Ann Wright’s Work

  The Noble and the Nightingale

  “Wright sets up the Sisters of Sarras lesbian fantasy romance trilogy with solid worldbuilding, a delightfully awkward couple who bridge social realms, and an entertaining adventure that leaves plenty of room to grow. …By the end, Wright has established strong personalities for Adella’s two sisters and taken the suspense plotline to the brink of war between Sarras and the Firellians, setting up strongly for the next volumes. Readers will be pleased.”—Publishers Weekly

  “Only Barbara Ann Wright can weave a satisfying romance from nothing more than looks of longing, stolen kisses, and hand-holding. …The Noble and the Nightingale is an entirely satisfying addition to the shelves of Barbara Ann Wright, who somehow finds fresh ways to blend fantasy and romance with characters worthy of their settings.”—Beauty in Ruins

  “When I heard that Barbara Ann Wright was starting a new fantasy series about three sisters…I knew I wanted to read these books. The Noble and the Nightingale is a very intriguing beginning to this series. …This novel has something for everyone. …The tale is well-written. The setting and world building is superb. The characters are well developed and easy to connect with. The story kept my interest from the first page to the last.”—Rainbow Reflections

  “This book was a ton of fun. …I think it is very approachable for all types of readers. …I ended up reading this book until 3 [a.m.] because I had to know how everything would unfold and what would happen to all the characters. …This is the kind of story to take you on an adventure and just have fun with. Not only could I not stop reading this book, but it put a big smile on my face. I’m a happy reader.”—Lez Review Books

  Lady of Stone

  “Yet another stellar read from Barbara Ann Wright, Lady of Stone is a wonderful blend of magical fantasy and lesbian romance that had me eager to find out how it all ends, and yet reluctant to have it end.”—Beauty in Ruins

  Not Your Average Love Spell

  “Barbara Ann Wright mixes so much into her story—romance, comedy, drama, action, adventure—that it threatens more than once to collapse under the clash of themes, but those clashes and contrasts only serve to make it stronger and more engaging.”—Beauty in Ruins

  “…a solid little fantasy tale with a lot of really cool elements. …Wright plays to all the tropes…in a way that keeps the story fresh while preserving the surprises. …As for the romance, that was surprisingly sweet and amusing, with four women at the heart of the story who are entirely likable…the spark of attraction and the emotional connections are undeniable.”—Fem Led Fantasy

  “…a great story filled with magic, wondrous creatures and adventure but what I really enjoyed about the book was the way that the characters grew. …It is a great thing to read in these trying times and I took hope from it. The story pulls with enough magic to feel like a fully fleshed out fantasy world while keeping our heroes relatable and engaging. …I give it a full hearted thumbs up and you should definitely check it out.”—Paper Phoenix Ink

  “I thought this was a fun and entertaining adventure read…the fantasy aspects are very approachable. …the way the whole plot unfolded just felt different and I loved that. What also really impressed me was the amount of action this book had. It was one thing after another after another all keeping me completely glued to the book. …I could not stop reading.”—Lez Review Books

  “The adventures, as mentioned above, were plentiful. There are pirates and warriors, a yeti, giant spiders, a possible dragon, lizard people, and in general, a lot of tough-headed knights. The plot was definitely interesting, with a lot of twists and turns. The writing was seasoned with beautiful writing and truths. I highly recommend this book to lovers of fantasy and to those that want characters to be challenged to deconstruct what they know and learn how to live together. It’s a beautiful book!”—The Lesbrary

  “[Not Your Average Love Spell] is an entertaining…romantic fantasy adventure comedy? (I’m not sure how to categorise its Venn diagram of subgenres, either.) Starring an agoraphobic witch; a bright, curious, talkative homunculus; an archivist/scholar with a revolutionary bent; a knight who—at least initially—believes wholeheartedly in her order’s mission to stamp out magic; and an invasion of genocidal warriors, Not Your Average Love Spell takes its characters on an entertaining ride and delivers all of them a happy ending. (Except for the genocidal warriors. Their happy ending would be terrible for everyone else.)”—Tor.com

  The Tattered Lands

  “Wright’s postapocalyptic romance is a fast-paced journey through devastation. …Plenty of action, surprises, and magic will keep readers turning the pages.”—Publishers Weekly

  House of Fate

  “…fast, fun…entertaining. …House of Fate delivers on adventure.”—Tor.com

  Lambda Literary Award Finalist—Coils

  “…Greek myths, gods and monsters and a trip to the Underworld. Sign me up. …This one springs straight into action…a good start, great Greek myth action and a late blooming romance that flowers in the end…”—Dear Author

  “A unique take on the Greek gods and the afterlife make this a memorable book. The story is fun with just the right amount of camp. Medusa is a hot, if unexpected, love interest. …A truly unexpected ending has us hoping for more stories from this world.”—RT Book Reviews

  “The gods and monsters of ancient Greek mythology are living, breathing entities, something Cressida didn’t expect and is amazed as well as terrified to discover. …Cressida soon realizes being in the underworld is no different than being among the living. The heart still feels and love can bloom, even in the world of Myth. …The characters are well developed and their wit will elicit more than a few chuckles. A joy to read.”—Lunar Rainbow Reviewz

  Paladins of the Storm Lord

  “This was a truly enjoyable read…I would definitely pick up the next book. …the mad dash at the end kept me riveted. I would definitely recommend this book for anyone who has a love of sci-fi. …An intricate novel…one that can be appreciated at many levels, adventurous sci fi or one that is politically motivated with a very astute look at present day human behavior. …There are many levels to this extraordinary and well written book…overall a fascinating and intriguing book.”—Inked Rainbow Reads

  “I loved this. …The world that the Paladins inhabited was fascinating…didn’t want to put this down until I knew what happened. I’ll be looking for more of Barbara Ann Wright’s books.”—Lesbian Romance Reviews

  “Paladins of the Storm Lord by Barbara Ann Wright was like an orchestra with all of its pieces creating a symphony. I really truly loved it. I love the intricacy and wide variety of character types…I just love
d practically every character! …Of course my fellow adventure lovers should read Paladins of the Storm Lord!”—Lesbian Review

  Thrall: Beyond Gold and Glory

  “Once more Barbara has outdone herself in her penmanship. I cannot sing enough praises. A little Vikings, a dash of The Witcher, peppered with The Game of Thrones, and a pinch of Lord of The Rings. Mesmerizing. …I was ecstatic to read this book. It did not disappoint. Barbara pours life into her characters with sarcasm, wit and surreal imagery, they leap from the page and stand before you in all their glory. I am left satisfied and starving for more, the clashing of swords, whistling of arrows still ringing in my ears.”—Lunar Rainbow Reviews

  “In their adventures, the women must wrestle with issues of freedom, loyalty, and justice. The characters were likable, the issues complex, and the battles were exciting. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.”—All Our Worlds: Diverse Fantastic Fiction

  “This was the first Barbara Ann Wright novel I’ve read, and I doubt it will be the last. Her dialogue was concise and natural, and she built a fantastical world that I easily imagined from one scene to the next. Lovers of Vikings, monsters and magic won’t be disappointed by this one.”—Curve

  The Pyramid Waltz

  “…a healthy dose of a very creative, yet believable, world into which the reader will step to find enjoyment and heart-thumping action. It’s a fiendishly delightful tale.”—Lambda Literary

  “Barbara Ann Wright is a master when it comes to crafting a solid and entertaining fantasy novel. …The world of lesbian literature has a small handful of high-quality fantasy authors, and Barbara Ann Wright is well on her way to joining the likes of Jane Fletcher, Cate Culpepper, and Andi Marquette. …Lovers of the fantasy and futuristic genre will likely adore this novel, and adventurous romance fans should find plenty to sink their teeth into.”—Rainbow Reader

  “Chock full of familiar elements that avid fantasy readers will adore…[The Pyramid Waltz] adds in a compelling and slowly evolving romance. …Set against a backdrop of political intrigue with the possibility of monsters and mystery at every turn, the two women slowly learn each other, sharing secrets and longing, until a fragile love blossoms between them…”—USA Today Happily Ever After

  For Want of a Fiend

  “This book will keep you turning the page to find out the answers. …Fans of the fantasy genre will really enjoy this installment of the story. We can’t wait for the next book.”—Curve

  “A fun, unique story with a distinctive world. This series doesn’t imitate other popular fantasy novels. It stands on its own. The writing is well paced and Wright incorporates a more modern or colloquial language which makes the books easy to read. Overall, For Want of a Fiend was an enjoyable read and I think you would like it if you are a fan of books like Game of Thrones or a TV series like Reign.”—Lesbian Review

  “If you enjoyed The Pyramid Waltz, For Want of a Fiend is the perfect next step. If you haven’t read either, know that you’d be embarking on a joyous, funny, sweet and madcap ride around very dark things lovingly told, with characters who will stay with you for months after. The plot still moves at a fast clip. Characterisation continues to deepen—and I love that. I love seeing a passionate, adoring romantic relationship flanked by friendships.”—The Lesbrary

  A Kingdom Lost

  “There is only one other time in my life I have uncontrollably shouted out in cheer while reading a book. [A Kingdom Lost] made the second. …Over the course of these three books all the characters have blossomed and developed so eloquently. …I simply just thought this whole novel was brilliant.”—Lesbian Review

  The Fiend Queen

  “After reading this series Barbara Ann Wright has made my favorite author list. Her writing always seems to sweep me away to another world. The pacing, characters, and language were all perfect. …I am so addicted to Fantasy now. I knew fantasy was one of my favorite genres but it was always hard for me to come by a consistent source of fantasy books. After finishing the series A Pyradisté Adventure I knew that I had found a diamond. I can’t wait to read the rest of Barbara Ann Wright’s works. …Read it! I am obsessed and I don’t know how I will ever want to read a non-fantasy Lesfic ever again. I literally felt drunk off the series. Even after I was done with this book I thought about it constantly for at least two days.”—Lesbian Review

  The Scout and the Scoundrel

  Brought to you by

  eBooks from Bold Strokes Books, Inc.

  http://www.boldstrokesbooks.com

  eBooks are not transferable. They cannot be sold, shared or given away as it is an infringement on the copyright of this work.

  Please respect the rights of the author and do not file share.

  By the Author

  The Pyradisté Adventures

  The Pyramid Waltz

  For Want of a Fiend

  A Kingdom Lost

  The Fiend Queen

  Lady of Stone

  Thrall: Beyond Gold and Glory

  The Godfall Novels

  Paladins of the Storm Lord

  Widows of the Sun-Moon

  Children of the Healer

  Inheritors of Chaos

  Coils

  House of Fate

  The Tattered Lands

  Not Your Average Love Spell

  The Sisters of Sarras

  The Noble and the Nightingale

  The Scout and the Scoundrel

  The Scout and the Scoundrel

  © 2021 By Barbara Ann Wright. All Rights Reserved.

  ISBN 13: 978-1-63555-979-8

  This Electronic Original Is Published By

  Bold Strokes Books, Inc.

  P.O. Box 249

  Valley Falls, NY 12185

  First Edition: November 2021

  This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

  This book, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.

  Credits

  Editor: Cindy Cresap

  Production Design: Susan Ramundo

  Cover Design By Tammy Seidick

  eBook Design by Toni Whitaker

  Acknowledgments

  Thanks to everyone at BSB, most of all Cindy, the best editor a fantasy writer could hope for. Thanks also to Rad and Sandy for continuing to believe in my work. And thank you, Tammy, for my wonderful covers. Plus, thanks to Ruth, Carsen, Paula, Stacia, and all my fellow BSB writers for your unwavering support.

  Thanks to my fabulous writing groups. It’s been a slog of a year, but you’re sticking with it. Sarah, Deb, Angela, and David, I couldn’t have done it without you.

  Same goes for my mom, Linda Dunn. It’s because of you that I know anything about perseverance.

  Dedication

  For Deb. The way you handle life has always been an inspiration.

  Chapter One

  To Roni, there was only one thing worse than sitting in jail after getting caught stealing: sitting in jail after getting caught stealing from some uptown nob with a vendetta against hardworking criminals. And on a feast day at that, when the constabulary were out of sorts for being forced to work while everyone else was having fun.

  When the penalties for thieving were harsher.

  After Roni had already been caught twice that year.

  Okay, a few things were worse than just getting caught, but even while sitting in a jail cell, she couldn’t regret her night’s work. She blocked out the sounds of coughing and the murmurs and whimpers of her fellow inmates. She couldn’t see much in the dim light of two lanterns hanging in the hallway outside. The constables shouldn’t have bothered with light at all.
It made the huddled forms sprawled on the floor or leaning against the wall seem like lurking ghouls. And the stench of cheap lamp oil seemed to make the stink of unwashed bodies that much worse.

  Roni made herself ignore all of it and concentrate on the future. The loot she’d claimed to have thrown in the canal while being pursued by the constables had actually been carefully hidden. It would see her through the next few months, even after paying the exorbitant fees to the Newgate Syndicate for thieving in their territory. Well, the fees plus a few late charges from her last job. After she sold the jewels, she should still have more than enough.

  Probably.

  As Roni leaned against the wall in the corner of the dark cell, she tried to figure out how much profit would come out of the evening after everyone got their handful. Maybe she’d get lucky, and the syndicate would forget some of her old debts.

  The devils watching from hell weren’t so kind.

  “Fuck,” she whispered as she added in the fees she’d have to pay to get out of jail. With two other ticks under her belt, it was bound to be a bundle. Gods and devils, it was getting to the point where it wasn’t even worth the effort to be a criminal.

  Especially when a nearby drunk stumbled into her corner and retched all over her boots.

  Like everyone else, Roni scrambled to get away. She rubbed her boots along the wall to clean them, but that no doubt added to the general funk coating her shoes. And judging by the noises coming from her new corner, she’d be moving again soon. Most of the other inmates were surrounded by an alcoholic haze and were probably in jail for causing a ruckus, or they’d gotten themselves arrested because they had nowhere else to go, and the temperature had dropped overnight.