The Winter Rose by Jennifer Donnelly

"When India Selwyn Jones graduates from the London School of Medicine for Women in 1900, she is advised to set up her practice in a fashionable neighborhood. Instead, the idealistic India chooses to work in the East End, serving the poor. There, India meets Sid Malone, one of London's most notorious gangsters. Before long, an unpredictable, passionate, and bittersweet affair ensues."
(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

I enjoyed Donnelly's The Tea Rose very much, but I absolutely ADORED The Winter Rose! I had forgotten how much I had become emotionally invested in Fiona and Joe's story and the tragedies and triumphs of the Finnegan family, but it all came flooding back as I got lost in their turn-of-the-century London world once again. Joe and Fiona are now blissfully married with a child, and Fiona is busy supporting her husband's political career and her own involvement in her tea empire. While life has brought them much happiness, they will once again experience trying times, challenges, and a test of the strength of their bond.

The saga, however, focuses on my favorite character in the novel: aristocratic, idealistic graduate of medical school, India Selwyn Jones; she is a thoroughly likeable character who sets out to change the world of healthcare for women and children by serving the poor and destitute of Whitechapel. Her passion and dedication is sincere, but as a woman in the medical field, she faces an uphill battle and is appalled by the outdated medical practices of her male superior and his indifference to the suffering of women. Although she is engaged to Freddie Litton (an unscrupulous, power-hungry cad with political aspirations and an eye on India's wealth), she remains committed to medicine despite his insistence that she give up working once they are married.

India's entire world changes when a notorious underworld criminal, Sid Malone (remember his true identity from The Tea Rose?) is brought to her for medical help as he was near death from an accident. She works tirelessly to save him, and in the long process, becomes intrigued and drawn to him -- and he to India. I became totally consumed with the story of India and Sid.....she wants so desperately to save Sid from himself, to turn his life around, that is was just heartbreaking. And for once in his life, he has found someone who touches his heart. Such an unlikely pair....she, a doctor with a dream of opening a clinic for women to better the world, and Sid, the notorious criminal boss who is feared by all and wanted for murder, but will give the shirt off his back to warm a sleeping child in the trash....ah! such angst! Their star-crossed, bittersweet romance tugged at my heart and I found myself thinking about them even when I wasn't reading the book! How could their love survive such impossible odds?

The Winter Rose was an incredible novel, highly suspenseful and gripping, with richly drawn characters and an amazing, complex plot -- passion, revenge, murder, secrets, greed, vendettas, tragedy, and triumphs -- with an ending that took my breath away! Highly, highly recommended!


5/5 stars - LOVED it!

Title: The Winter Rose
Author: Jennifer Donnelly
Hyperion Books
2008
707 pages

For the King's Favor by Elizabeth Chadwick

"When Roger Bigod arrives at King Henry II's court to settle a bitter inheritance dispute, he becomes enchanted with Ida de Tosney, young mistress to the powerful king. A victim of Henry's seduction and the mother of his son, Ida sees in Roger a chance to begin a new life. But Ida pays an agonizing price when she leaves the king, and as Roger's importance grows and he gains an earldom, their marriage comes under increasing strain. Based on the true story of a royal mistress and the young lord she chose to marry, For the King's Favor is Elizabeth Chadwick at her best."
(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

I've heard so much about Elizabeth Chadwick's ability to make the medieval world come alive that I was very much looking forward to reading one of her novels. She did not disappoint -- For the King's Favor was a memorable tale of love, honor, duty, and sacrifice. Chadwick's writing made this period in history come alive, and the characters were richly drawn.

As a favored mistress of King Henry II, Ida de Tosney is duty-bound to serve her king and, as a result, gives birth to a son. But she longs for her own family with a husband of her choice, and she sees the honorable and noble knight, Roger Bigod, as the key to her future and independence from the king. In order to marry Bigod, however, Ida must make the ultimate sacrifice and leave her son, William, to be raised as a royal in the care of the court of King Henry.

Roger Bigod must also remain in the king's favor as he is attempting to recover his lands which were lost by his father's rebellious actions against the king. His stepmother, Gundreda, and half-brothers fight Roger every step, as they contend that they are the legitimate heirs of the vast inheritance and earldom.

The love story of Ida and Roger is a poignant one; together they struggle with their own deep wounds from the past, deal with the strains of long separations, and continue to build a future together at Framlingham Castle. A superb tale, and I'm looking forward to reading Chadwick's The Greatest Knight and The Scarlet Lion.


5/5 stars

Title: For the King's Favor
Author: Elizabeth Chadwick
Sourcebooks
2010
525 pages
genre: historical fiction

The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley

"History has all but forgotten.....
In the spring of 1708, an invading Jacobite fleet of French and Scottish soldiers nearly succeeded in landing the exiled James Stewart in Scotland to reclaim his crown.

Now Carrie McClelland hopes to turn that story into her next bestselling novel. Settling herself in the shadow of Slains Castle, she creates a heroine named for one of her own ancestors and starts to write.

But when she discovers her novel is more fact than fiction, Carrie wonders if she might be dealing with ancestral memory, making her the only living person who knows the truth--the ultimate betrayal--that happened all those years ago, and that knowledge comes very close to destroying her...."
(from the publisher)


my thoughts:

It's official: I have a new favorite book, and it is The Winter Sea!

Kearsley has the ability to make me forget that I am reading....I just fall into her stories and become part of another world. She makes you feel the damp, cold stones of the castle, shiver in the icy cold wind and water of the sea, and experience real heart-pounding fear as danger draws near. She brings you to tears as your heart truly aches for her characters and you understand the depths of their feelings.... it's just incredible! If you have room for just one more book on your TBR list, make it The Winter Sea!

The structure of this book makes the story read as a time slip story, but it's actually a "story within a story" -- in the present, author Carrie McClelland has arrived in Scotland to begin writing her new novel based on an historical event: an attempt by the Jacobites in the early 1700's to bring the exiled King James back to Scotland. Once she arrives in Cruden Bay, she feels compelled to rent a cottage near the sea where she can settle in to write. The cottage is near the ruins of Slains Castle, and she experiences a strange deja vu while exploring the castle. Carrie is inspired to begin writing immediately, and discovers as she writes (the reader actually gets to read the chapters Carrie is writing) that she has a "genetic memory" from the past. Strangely, as her novel begins to unfold, Carrie discovers evidence in her research that what she thought was her fictional account is actually recorded history. In parallel stories, as Carrie guides her novel's heroine in her love story, Carrie also finds herself attracted to a handsome history professor.

Carrie names her heroine after an ancestor; she creates Sophia , a beautiful young orphaned girl who comes to live at Slains Castle in the 1700's with her relative, the Countess of Erroll. There is much secret activity at the castle as the inhabitants prepare for the return of their exiled King from France. Sophia is intelligent and discreet, and meets many of the players in the secret plot, one of them the handsome John Morey, a Jacobite with a price on his head. As the plot begins to be put into motion, danger looms for all involved....and if it fails, it threatens to change the lives of the inhabitants of Slains Castle forever.

Secrets, sacrifice, promises, betrayal, heartache, an enduring love....The Winter Sea will hold you spellbound until the very last page.


And there's great news on Susanna Kearsley's website....plans are underway to write a companion book for The Winter Sea continuing the story with Anna! Wonderful news! Click here for Kearlsey's news.


5/5 stars - Loved, loved, loved it! Highly recommended!!!

Title: The Winter Sea
Author: Susanna Kearsley
Sourcebooks
2010
536 pages
genre: historical fiction

The Betrayal of the Blood Lily by Lauren Willig

"Everyone warned Miss Penelope Deveraux that her unruly behavior would land her in disgrace someday. She never imagined she'd be whisked off to India to give the scandal of her hasty marriage time to die down. As Lady Frederick Staines, Penelope plunges into he treacherous waters of the Nizam of Hyderabad, where no one is quite what they seem--even her own husband. In a strange country, where elaborate court dress masks even more elaborate intrigues and a dangerous spy called the Marigold leaves venomous cobras as his calling card, there is only one person Penelope can trust.

Captain Alex Reid has better things to do than play nursemaid to a pair of aristrocrats. Or so he thinks--until Lady Frederick Staines outshoots, outrides, and outswims every man in the camp. She also has an uncanny ability to draw out the deadly plans of the Marigold and put herself in harm's way. With danger looming from warlords, treacherous court officials, and French spies, Alex realizes that an alliance with Lady Staines might just be the only thing standing in the way of a plot designed to rock the very foundations of the British empire."
(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

Sixth in the fabulously entertaining series by Lauren Willig, The Betrayal of the Blood Lily leaves the elegant English ballrooms for the mysterious and exotic setting of colonial India. If you've read Willig's website, you'll know that she is a fan of the works of M. M. Kaye, (The Far Pavilions, Trade Wind, and Shadow of the Moon), and The Betrayal of the Blood Lily is her tribute to that wonderful creator of epic stories of love, war, and adventure set in India. There is even a small part in the novel for the famous author, as Mrs. Selwick-Alderly explains to Eloise that she and M. M. Kaye were friends in their younger years.

Penelope Deveraux, or Lady Frederick Staines, is quite a departure from the proper, social-conscious ladies in her group of friends. She is impetuous and strong-willed, often times landing herself in predicaments because of her brash and hasty remarks and actions. There is little love lost between Penelope and her new husband who appears to be more interested in her money than in their relationship. Because their marriage was a formality to avoid scandal, I wasn't really emotionally invested in the couple. I was stumped as to what Willig was going to do to make things work out for this ill-suited couple.

Enter Captain Alex Reid - handsome and honorable, acting as an official escort to the couple as they travel to Hyderabad. With her husband more interested in enjoying the exotic women available for "entertainment", Penelope is often left alone without protection--and there is plenty of danger around. Spies, poisonous snakes, murder, stolen gold, and plots to overthrow British control all cause Penelope and Captain Reid to turn to each other as friends and allies...and maybe something more.

Eloise and Colin seemed to have a smaller part in Blood Lily, but their relationship is progressing nicely and Eloise is beginning to make some personal discoveries about Colin's present-day family in the Selwick-Alderly archives as well as academic material for her dissertation. We're left with a little intrigue surrounding the identity of Colin's stepfather.

All in all, another treat for Pink Carnation fans, who like me, just can't seem to get enough of flower spies, Napoleon, and romance.

P.S. Curiously, there is no spy with the moniker Blood Lily...there is the Marigold, and the sweet scents of exotic blooms, but no blood lily! I did a search and found that blood lily was meant to be descriptive of Penelope and not the spy featured in the novel. Glad that was cleared up, 'cause I thought I fell asleep while reading. ;)



3.5/5 stars
Title: The Betrayal of the Blood Lily
Author: Lauren Willig
Dutton
2010
genre: historical romance

Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron by Stephanie Barron

"The restorative power of the ocean brings Jane Austen and her beloved brother Henry to Brighton after Henry's wife is lost to a long illness. But the crowded, glittering resort is far from peaceful, especially when the lifeless body of a beautiful young society miss is discovered in the bedchamber of none other than George Gordon--otherwise known as Lord Byron. As a poet and a seducer of women, Byron has carved out a shocking reputation for himself--but no one would ever accuse him of being capable of murder. Now it falls to Jane to pursue this puzzling investigation and discover just how "mad, bad, and dangerous to know" Byron truly is. And she must do so without falling victim to the charming versifier's legendary charisma, lest she, too, become a cautionary example for the ages."
(from the publisher)


my thoughts:

Since meeting Stephanie Barron at a book event this summer, I've had a few of her books on my TBR list, including some of the Jane Austen mystery series and The White Garden. I'm so glad I finally made time for Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron (although it is actually the tenth book in the series) as it is a clever mystery rich with authentic period detail. Fans of Jane Austen will enjoy Barron's depiction of the author as an intelligent and competent sleuth when she is not busy penning her popular, anonymous works.

Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron begins on a tragic note in April of 1813 -- the family has lost Eliza de Feuillide, Henry's wife and Jane's dear friend. Not wanting to allow her brother to suffer too long with grief, Jane makes a suggestion that Henry readily accepts.

"Our sister Jane has a decided inclination to visit the sea. She believes that a period of exposure to the salt air is as essential as balm to a wounded heart...I have consented to bear her company on an expedition to the seaside."

Expecting refreshment from a change in surroundings, Jane packs up her work-in-progress manuscript of Mansfield Park, and the brother and sister head to Brighton.

Written as journal entries, the reader begins to learn of Austen's experiences and thoughts about the trip. Almost immediately upon setting out on their journey, they make a very frightening discovery -- while stoppng to change horses, Jane hears moans coming from a nearby carriage, and is horrified at what she finds. This discovery sets off a chain of events, eventually culminating in a murder. All the evidence of the murder points to Lord Byron, the "mad, bad" poet who is notorious for his multiple paramours and drunken debauchery. Mingling with the glittering haut ton of Brighton, the still-in-mourning spinster Jane must remain discreet and use her keen observation skills and powers of deduction as a sleuth to put all the facts together and find the truth...and in the process, discovers for herself the powerful and charismatic aura of Lord Byron.

4/5 stars


Title: Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron (#10)
Author: Stephanie Barron
Bantam Books
2010
genre: historical mystery

Dangerous to Know by Tasha Alexander

"Returning from her honeymoon with Colin Hargreaves and a near brush with death in Constantinople, Lady Emily convalesces at her mother-in-law's beautiful estate in Normandy. But the calm she so desperately seeks is shattered when, out horseback riding, she comes upon the body of a young woman who has been brutally murdered. The girl's wounds are identical to those inflicted on the victims of Jack the Ripper, who has wreaked havoc across the channel in London. Emily feels a connection to the young woman and is determined to bring the killer to justice.

Pursuing a trail of clues and victims to the beautiful medieval city of Rouen and a crumbling chateau in the country, Emily begins to worry about her own sanity: she hears the cries of a little girl she cannot find and discovers blue ribbons left in the child's wake. As Emily is forced to match wits with a brilliant and manipulative killer, only her courage, keen instincts, and formidable will to win can help her escape becoming his next victim."

(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

This was an interesting installment in the Lady Emily series (book #5), as for the first time we get an intimate look inside the mind of the lead character as she struggles physically, mentally, and emotionally after the recent upheavals in her life.

After coming close to losing her life and suffering a real tragedy while honeymooning in the Ottoman empire, the couple decide to spend some quiet time at the Normandy home of Madame Hargreaves to allow Lady Emily time to heal her physical and emotional wounds. From the very beginning, it is a struggle for her -- her mother-in-law is cold and unsupportive, she suffers another shock when she discovers a brutally murdered young woman in the woods while out riding, and her husband, while still loving and attentive, is becoming overprotective and attempting to restrict her freedom. Convinced she is strong enough to assist Colin and the local authorities in the murder investigation, Lady Emily begins to search for clues to the identity and background of the murder victim. But for every step she takes in the investigation, she is stalked as if my a phantom.....cryptic notes left in her bedroom in the middle of the night, mysterious blue ribbons left in her path, and the sounds of a crying child haunt her dreams. Lady Emily begins to question her own sanity and her husband is maddeningly condescending -- "Darling, you're not fully recovered yet.....you're still so fragile.....you need your rest....you will obey me..."

We meet a colorful cast of characters in the French countryside, from the Markham and Prier families, each with their own skeletons in the closet and history of madness, the Impressionist painter, Monet, to some of our old friends from previous adventures, namely Cecile du Lac and Sebastian Capet, the endearingly charming "cat burglar." Tasha Alexander does a wonderful job of bringing the beauty and charm of the French countryside alive, and how all the pieces of the puzzle snap together makes Dangerous to Know another well-crafted, elegantly styled mystery.

3.5/5 stars

Title: Dangerous to Know
Author: Tasha Alexander
2010
Minotaur Books
306 pages
genre: Victorian mystery

Arabella by Georgette Heyer

"An enchanting debutante and the eldest daughter of an impoverished country parson, Arabella Tallant embarks on her first London season. Armed with beauty, virtue, and a benevolent godmother, Arabella is sure to be a success, as long as her notoriously impetuous temper does not interfere.

But when Robert Beaumaris, the most eligible Nonpareil of the day, accuses her of being yet another pretty female after his wealth, Arabella allows herself to be provoked--into a deceitful charade that might have unexpected consequences."

(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

Arabella is one of Heyer's most charming tales -- I was so absorbed in the details of the excitement of the debutante's launch into London society that I hated to see the story come to an end! No one brings Regency England alive better than Heyer as she expertly blends cant, etiquette, fashion, and the world of the ton into her novels.

In this Cinderella-type story, pretty Arabella, the daughter of a country vicar, can't beleive her good fortune when she receives news that she is going to London to be launched into society with the help of her adoring godmother. With high hopes for a successful season, Arabella sets out on her adventure of a lifetime, but unfortunately, her carriage breaks along the way. She and her chaperone must seek shelter at a hunting lodge, and it is here that she meets dashing Robert Beaumaris, the wealthiest and most popular bachelor in London's high society.

Beaumaris infuriates Arabella when she overhears him speaking to his friend about her "staged" carriage accident. Arrogant and accustomed to fortune-seeking ladies, Beaumaris assumes her accident was all a part of a plan to meet him. Arabella's temper gets the better of her, and she proceeds to play the part of an heiress and lets Beaumaris know in no uncertain terms that she has no need for either him or his money.

This is a new situation indeed for Beaumaris -- an attractive debutante that is not falling all over herself to seek his attentions! He simply cannot resist getting to know this unique and spirited young lady better. He begins attending all of Arabella's parties and balls, and his presence at her functions creates quite a stir and results in Arabella being considered the belle of the season!

How these two come together (because you know the prince and princess always have a happy ending in fairy tales, right?) is a cute and witty story. Have no fear, Arabella turns the tables on Beaumaris, and it's not long before she has him jumping through hoops! This is one of Heyer's most endearing heroines, and I know I will want to read Arabella again and again.


5/5 stars
Title: Arabella
Author: Georgette Heyer
Sourcebooks
1949/2009
312 pages
Genre: Regency Romance

Named of the Dragon by Susanna Kearsley

"When she agrees to accompany an author to Wales for the holidays, literary agent Lyn Revenshaw hopes to escape the terrifying nightmares that have plagued her since the death of her baby five years before. But shortly after she arrives at her host's rambling farmhouse, Lyn meets Elen, an eccentric young widow who's desperately afraid for her infant son's safety--and her dreams become even more vivid and distrubing.

Elen's fragile emotional state--and the mysterious paternity of her baby--inspire much gossip in this small coastal village, and she inexplicably sees Lyn as her son's protector. As Lyn struggles to understand the intrigue surrounding Elen and her imperiled child, she forms an unlikely alliance with a reclusive, brooding playwright--and is pulled into an ancient world of haunting legends and dangerous prophecies...where she will finally uncover the secrets of her dreams."

(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

Susanna Kearsley's novels have brought me back to my first love of reading.....I devoured everything in the romantic suspense genre many years ago, with Mary Stewart, Phyllis Whitney, Victoria Holt, and Daphne du Maurier among my top favorites. I'm happy to say I feel right at home again with Kearsley's suspenseful and atmospheric writing.

Named of the Dragon brings the reader to a tiny village in Pembrokeshire, Wales, a place where ancient tales, myths and legends, and history are tied to the present. While the story is set in the present day, Kearsley's descriptions of the castle ruins, the rugged coastline, the charming atmosphere of an old farmhouse and village living gives the reader a real sense of the significance of the past and the present being inseparable. Kearsley expertly weaves the story of a young woman's haunting dreams following the death of her baby with beautiful poetry from Yeats, Tennyson, and the ancient legends and prophecies of Merlin. A dark, handsome, brooding playwright (Gareth Morgan) adds more tension and conflict to the story, adding a touch of romance to the mix of mystery and suspense. Another poignant, atmospheric tale from the author of Mariana and The Shadowy Horses. I'm looking forward to the upcoming release in the U.S. of The Winter Sea, described by many of her fans as her best.

Click here to view photos from Susanna Kearlsey's website of the beatufiul village of Angle, Pembrokshire in Named of the Dragon.


4/5 stars

Title: Named of the Dragon
Author: Susanna Kearsley
Berkley Books
1998
297 pages
genre: romantic suspense

A Broken Vessel by Kate Ross

"In London's notorious Haymarket district, Sally Stokes, a bold and bewitching Cockney prostitute, picks up three men one after the other and nicknames them Bristles, Blue Eyes, and Blinkers. From each of them Sally steals a handkerchief--and from one she mistakenly steals a letter than contains an urgent plea for help from a distraught young woman.

Luckily, Sally's brother is none other than Dipper, reformed pickpocket and valet to gifted amateur sleuth Julian Kestrel. After the writer of the letter is found dead, the authorities dismiss her death as suicide. But to Kestrel it looks like murder, and he forms an unlikely -- but highly entertaining -- alliance with Sally to track down the three clients. The two embark on a quest that leads them from a house of reclamation for fallen women to the abodes of England's highest ranking families as they race to unmask a dangerous killer."

(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

In a word, this book was fantastic! If you can read the first chapter and then put this book down, you have more willpower than I do! I read the first Julien Kestrel mystery in the series, Cut to the Quick, and while it was a well-crafted plot, I wasn't enthralled. Thankfully, I've read glowing reviews about the remainder of the series, so I continued with A Broken Vessel, and I'm so glad I did. It's destined to be a favorite of mine....it was that good!

An unlikely trio of characters (Julien, the London dandy amateur sleuth, his reformed pickpocket valet, Dipper, and Dipper's spunky, Cockney prostitute sister, Sally), become entangled in a web of secret scandals, plots of murder and suicide, and the sinister dark side of three of Sally's "encounters." From the seedy, gritty underworld of Regency London to the drawing rooms of the gentry, there are plots and counterplots, secret identities, skeletons in the closet, and a dangerous killer (or killers) who will stop at nothing to keep long-buried secrets hidden.

A raw, edgy mystery with authentic Regency cant and a truly fascinating, puzzling plot...kept my heart racing! Highly, highly recommended!

5/5 stars
Title: A Broken Vessel
Author: Kate Ross
1994
289 pages
Penguin Books
genre: Regency mystery

Dark Road to Darjeeling by Deanna Raybourn

"After eight idyllic months in the Mediterranean, Lady Julia Grey and her detective husband are ready to put their investigative talents to work once more. At the urging of Julia's eccentric family, they hurry to India to aid an old friend, the newly widowed Jane Cavendish. Living on the Cavendish tea plantation with the remnants of her husband's family, Jane is consumed with the impending birth of her child--and with discovering the truth about her husband's death. Was he murdered for his estate? And if he was, could Jane and her unborn child be next?

Amid the lush foothills of the Himalayas, dark deeds are buried and malicious thoughts flourish. The Brisbanes uncover secrets and scandal, illicit affairs and twisted legacies. In this remote and exotic place, exploration is perilous and discovery, deadly, The danger is palpable and, if they are not careful, Julia and Nicholas will not live to celebrate their first anniversary."
(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

*NO SPOILERS* - Promise!

What an amazing read -- witty and snappy dialogue, an exotic setting, a cast of eccentric characters involved in a web of mystery and intrigue -- everything that I have come to expect (and more) from one of my favorite authors!

Having read and loved the previous three Lady Julia Grey books, I was concerned that the relationship between the charismatic/enigmatic Brisbane and Lady Julia might lose its edge since they were now a married couple. So much of the interest in the books for me was the maddening tension of will they/won't they, and they walked that very fine line between restrained passion and loathing. No worries here, though, as Raybourn deftly manages to keep the sparks flying as Brisbane and Lady Julia are challenged trying to find a balance in their new marriage (time together to love, work together, but also time apart - Brisbane routinely does a disappearing act, much to his wife's annoyance). Their love and commitment is deep and obvious, but it's evident that there are still issues to work on in their relationship. Realistic!

Raybourn keeps the surprises coming in this whodunit mystery -- the death of the heir to the Peacocks, a tea plantation in Sikkim, is suspicious -- was he murdered, and who would likely profit from his death? Everyone from his pregnant wife (Portia's ex-lover) to assorted servants, neighbors, and family members are under suspicion, and Lady Julia, confident in her detecting abilities, along with her sister, Portia, and brother, Plum, attempts to discover the truth (she desperately wants to one-up Brisbane). While Julia begins methodically seeking information around the village to establish a possible motive, Brisbane manages to constantly infuriate Lady Julia by staying one step ahead of her. The list of possible suspects is a mile long, and have no fear, Raybourn pulls a few new tricks out of her hat that left me saying, "I didn't see THAT coming!"

Lots of trademark sarcastic wit, quirky characters, and some truly poignant moments made Dark Road to Darjeeling a memorable experience. I laughed, I cried, and I'm left anticipating their next adventure back in England!


4.5/5 stars

Title: Dark Road to Darjeeling
Author: Deanna Raybourn
MIRA
2010
388 pages
genre: Victorian mystery; historical fiction

The Darcy Cousins by Monica Fairview

"A Young lady in disgrace should at least strive to behave with decorum...

Dispatched from America to England under a cloud of scandal, Mr. Darcy's incorrigible American cousin, Clarissa Darcy, manages to provoke Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Collins, and the parishioners of Hunsford all in one morning!

And there are more surprises in store for that bastion of tradition, Rosings Park, when the family gathers for their annual Easter visit. Georgiana Darcy, generally a shy model of propreity, decides to take a few lessons from her unconventional cousin, to the delight of a neighboring gentleman. Anne de Bourgh, encouraged to escape her "keeper" Mrs. Jenkinson, simply...vanishes. But the trouble really starts when Clarissa and Georgiana both set out to win the heart of the same young man."
(from the publisher)

My thoughts:

I enjoyed Monica Fairview's The Other Mr. Darcy and looked forward to her second Pride and Prejudice-inspired novel, The Darcy Cousins. The author has a mastery of the Regency period and is true to the Austen style, which I admire. Her characters' dialogue rings true, and the social expectations, fashions, and matters of propriety and etiquette are spot on.

In this coming of age story, Georgiana Darcy takes center stage as she begins to put the memories of a disastrous past with Mr. Wickham behind her. She is entering her introduction into society with anticipation as a certain charismatic gentleman, Mr. Percy Channing, has caught her attention. Unfortunately for Georgiana, two cousins from America have arrived and begin to cause problems for her all-important season.

Frederick and Clarissa Darcy are American and free in their thinking and speaking -- much to the dismay of the formidable Catherine de Bourgh. As Lady Catherine declares upon her first meeting of the Darcy cousins,

"I expect you are like all Americans -- presumptuous, outspoken, and opinionated."


Lady Catherine has no idea what's in store for her as Clarissa's influence begins to affect not only Georgiana, but her own daughter, the frail and sickly Anne.

And wouldn't you know it, Clarissa seems to have caught Mr. Channing's fancy, and both Georgiana and Clarissa attempt to do their best to seek his attentions.

While there were a few compelling storylines (what happens to Anne de Bourgh, and which gentleman, if any, will capture Georgiana's heart), this novel seemed long on dialogue and short on plot. The "scandalous" reason the Darcy cousins left America was a let-down, and the "mischief and mayhem" promised fell short. It was a good read, but lacked the sparkle and excitement of The Other Mr. Darcy.

And speaking of Pride and Prejudice, just for fun, head over to Jane Austen Today to read about a rare, three volume edition from 1813 of Austen's Pride and Prejudice that is available at Sotheby's. Sure wish I had an extra $150,000.00 hanging around! ;)


3/5 stars

Title: The Darcy Cousins
Author: Monica Fairview
Sourcebooks
414 pages
genre: historical fiction; Regency romance

Dracula, My Love: The Secret Journals of Mina Harker by Syrie James

"Acclaimed author Syrie James approaches Bram Stoker's classic DRACULA with a breathtaking new perspective -- as, for the first time, Mina Harker records the shocking story of her scandalous seduction and sexual rebirth."
(from the publisher)


my thoughts:

Set against the backdrop of the charming and elegant Victorian period, this fascinating mystery and passionate love story kept me turning the pages well into wee hours. I've thoroughly enjoyed the previous two novels by Syrie James (The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte), and Dracula, My Love was no exception......it was haunting and thrilling.

While her fiance' is in Transylvania on business, Mina embarks on an innocent seaside holiday in Whitby with her best friend, Lucy Westenra and Lucy's mother. Both young ladies are properly engaged to be married soon, so they spend their days leisurely reading, walking, and enjoying the sights. Their tranquil vacation is disrupted when a terrifying event occurs...a ship appears in port, the entire crew is missing, and the captain's corpse (clutching a crucifix) is tied to the helm. A series of very strange and eerie events begin to occur. Lucy begins to sleepwalk, compelled to leave her bedroom and wander out into the night. At the same time, Mina makes the acquaintance of a very handsome and charming gentleman. Knowing that proper young ladies do not befriend strange men, Mina tries to resist his invitations to spend time together, but she is inexplicably and irresistably drawn to him.

It is then that the horrors begin...Mina's quiet life begins to be one of a nightmare. Who is this mysterious man who has taken over Mina's heart, body, and mind? Who or what is responsible for a series of tragedies that begin to occur to the people she loves?

Dracula, My Love is an interesting twist on Bram Stoker's portrayal of Dracula as an ancient, reclusive monster -- while the perception is that Dracula is a dangerous and monstrous creature, Mina experiences a passionate and tender side of this misunderstood figure. She learns of his origin and sympathizes with his immortal agony. While his actions appear to the world to be vile and horrific, Mina begins to understand a different side of the story -- and is forced to make a choice about the two men she loves.





4/5 stars

Title: Dracula, My Love
Author: Syrie James
Avon
2010
457 pages
genre: historical mystery, horror

The Temptation of the Night Jasmine by Lauren Willig

"After years abroad, Robert, Duke of Dovedale, has returned to England to avenge the murder of his mentor. To uncover the murderer's identity, he must infiltrate the infamous secret Hellfire Club. But the Duke has no idea that an even more difficult challenge awaits him -- in a mistaken, romantic-minded young lady.

Charlotte Lansdowne wistfully remembers the Robert of her childhood as a valiant hero among men. Too aware of his own flaws, Robert tries to dissuade Charlotte from her delusions, even as he finds himself drawn to her. When Charlotte takes up a bit of espionage--investigating a plot to kidnap the King--Robert soon realizes that she is more than the perfect partner in crime.

Caught in a dangerous game full of deadly spies and secret rites, Robert and Charlotte must work together to reveal the villain....and confront their true love."

my thoughts:

I've slowed up a bit with Willig's Pink Carnation series as I don't like whipping through a series and then being left with a long wait for the next installment. Fortunately, there's still plenty of adventures ahead with The Betrayal of the Blood Lily, The Mischief of the Mistletoe, and the January 2011 release of The Orchid Affair.

While Night Jasmine is classic Willig style -- the juxtaposition of the exploits of the historical characters and the modern day relationship of Eloise and Colin -- I didn't find the storyline of Charlotte and Robert, the Duke of Dovedale, as intriguing as some of the previous characters. Since Charlotte is a quiet, bookish young innocent, and Robert was noble and honorable, their relationship was very sweet and chaste, similar to a fairytale with references to a knight on a white horse sweeping the princess off her feet and disappearing into the future with unicorns and jam tarts. Very sweet -- their innocent kiss was a stark contrast to the illicit activities of the Hellfire Club, which, by the way, I thought was one the more interesting aspects of the book. Using the Hellfire Club as a cover for a plot against the king was the most compelling part of the story.

Meanwhile, back in the present, things between Eloise and Colin are finally moving forward as little by little the reader learns a bit more of Colin's background and career, and the couple finally seem to have made some progress on the romantic front, as well. (You have to read carefully, but I assume by "...we fell asleep in a happy haze of red wine and extra-connubial canoodling" that they have indeed become much more than just friends. ;)

Although I enjoyed the previous novels in the series much more, I still marvel at Lauren Willig's turn of a phrase and literary references sprinkled throughout her stories. I always learn something new from her books or feel compelled to look up a literature reference that is part of her storyline. In this case, I was intrigued by Charlotte's beloved Evelina novel, and don't you know, I had to check online and it's available in both paperback and e-book! (I wonder what Charlotte would think of a kindle?!) The book, titled Evelina: The History of a Young Lady's Entrance into the World, was written by Fanny Burney and was very popular back in the day. (I had to order myself a copy!) Click here to read more about "the mother of English fiction" and more of her writings.




3.5/5

Title: The Temptation of the Night Jasmine
Author: Lauren Willig
Penguin Group (New American Library)
2009
501 pages
genre: historical romance

The Shadowy Horses by Susanna Kearsley

"With its dark legends and passionate history, the windswept shores of Scotland are an archaeologist's dream. Verity Grey is thrilled by the challenge of uncovering an ancient Roman campsite in a small village. But as soon as she arrives, she can sense danger in the air.

Her eccentric boss, Peter Quinnell, has spent his whole life searching for the resting place of the lost Ninth Roman Legion and is convinced he's finally found it -- not because of any scientific evidence, but because a local boy has "seen" a Roman soldier walking in the fields, a ghostly sentinel who guards the bodies of his long-dead comrades. Surprisingly, Verity believes in Peter, and the boy, and even in the Sentinel, who seems determined to become her own protector....but from what?" (from the publisher)


my thoughts:

Another enjoyable tale from Canadian author Susanna Kearsley...I really enjoyed her romantic suspense novel, Mariana, which was very reminiscent of the style of Mary Stewart and Victoria Holt, only Kearsley includes of touch of the paranormal.
Her heroines are intelligent, sensible, professional young women who refrain from foolishly rushing headlong into obviously dangerous situations -- how refreshing!

Although the revelation of the villain was a bit rushed and anticlimatic, I still enjoyed the dream-like quality of her writing and she kept me turning the pages, immersed in ancient history, prophesy, and a sentinel ghost who desperately wants to communicate with the living and make amends for the past.

The story is based on the Yeat's beautiful and haunting poem, "He Bids His Beloved Be at Peace" --

I hear the Shadowy Horses, their long manes a-shake
Their hoofs heavy with tumult, their eyes glimmering white....
O vanity of Sleep, Hope, Dream, endless Desire,
The Horses of Disaster plunge in the heavy clay.
Beloved, let your eyes half close, and your heart beat
Over my heart, and your hair fall over my breast,
Drowning love's lovely hour in deep twilight of rest,
And hiding their tossing manes and their tumultuous feet.


A perfect read for a long, quiet rainy day!


3.5/5 stars

Title: The Shadowy Horses
Author: Susanna Kearsley
Allison & Busby Limited
1997
407 pages
genre: romantic suspense

The Exile by Diana Gabaldon - First Impressions

"Diana Gabaldon's brilliant storytelling has captivated millions of readers in her bestselling and award-winning Outlander saga. Now, in her first-ever graphic novel, Gabaldon gives readers a fresh look at the events of the original Outlander: Jamie Frasier's side of the story, gorgeously rendered by artist Hoang Nguyen."

my thoughts:

First of all, let me begin by saying how exciting it is as a fan of Diana Gabaldon to experience a new facet of her Outlander story! Although a graphic novel is by no means the best way to truly enjoy Gabaldon's writing talent, her creative spin on the original plot was an interesting and unexpected treat.

In the original , the story is told from Claire's point of view, and the reader "sees" and "experiences" the events through Claire's eyes and thoughts. In The Exile, the reader now gets the opportunity to learn about new events through the POV of Jamie and Murtagh.

***SPOILER***

The key to The Exile surprise is that Claire was observed arriving through the stones....and since I read the original Outlander story countless times, a passage from the original book jumped out at me:

from Outlander, Chapter 11, p. 155 (Claire's thoughts)

"What would have happened, I wondered, had anyone been present on the hill of
Craigh na Dun when I made my abrupt appearance? I supposed it might depend on
the time one enetered. Here, had a cottar encountered me under such
cirumstances, I would doubtless have been thought a witch or a fairy. More
likely fairy, popping into existence on that particular hill, with its
reputation."

Leave it to Diana to pick up a thread that she wrote years ago and bring new life to a passage!

There were enough surprises in the graphic novel that made me go, "Hmmmmmmmm" (sometimes in surprise, and sometimes out of confusion). As I was cruising though The Exile on the first reading, I found myself scratching my head over Kenneth.....Kenneth? Did I miss something in one of the books? Am I supposed to know who Kenneth is? It took me a bit, but I eventually figured out a little about who/what he is, but he DID throw me for a loop.

The artwork by Hoang Nguyen was quite lovely, though a bit inconsistent, and I think it's safe to say that everyone is going to say, "That's not my Jamie and Claire!" Of course not, as we each have our own vision that is uniquely ours. It is interesting, however, to at last get a glimpse of Diana's vision of the characters as this was a collaborative effort between the author and the artist. It's not meant to be an exact representation, but merely an artistic approximation. It could just be that I was whipping through paying more attention to the content rather than the artwork, but I did at times have trouble telling apart some of the male characters as the story progressed.

My favorite images (besides the glorious rear view of Jamie as he arrives back in Scotland!) are the frame with Jamie in all his Highland finery on his wedding day (where Claire thinks, "Oh. My. God.") and the full page wedding kiss.(awwwwww) Lovely.

I also enjoyed the insights into Murtagh's thoughts and feelings....totally shocked by Murtagh's *almost* violent actions at Claire's bedside, and softened toward him as the last frame in the graphic novel is particularly poignant regarding Murtagh's love of Ellen.

This is not the complete Outlander story, unfortunately. This graphic novel only covers about one-third of the original plot, so fans must wait for future graphic novels to pick up the storyline when Claire and Jamie arrive at Lallybroch.

Although I enjoyed this addition to the Outlander world (there were some really funny moments), I think it is necessary to have an understanding of the books in order to fully appreciate and comprehend most of the graphic novel....this is not the best way for a newcomer to Outlander to experience the story. Start with the novel, and then add the graphic novel as an interesting twist to the plot, and that would be the perfect combination.

I definitely need to go back and read through it again to absorb the details I missed on the first quick reading....and give more thoughtful attention to the artwork. Thanks again, Diana, for another Outlander treasure!


What are your impressions?



4.5/5 stars

Title: The Exile
Author: Diana Gabaldon
Artist:Hoang Nguyen
Del Rey Books
2010
graphic novel

Cut to the Quick by Kate Ross

"To the ranks of great sleuths of ages past, add a new candidate - Julian Kestrel - a detective as historically authentic as Brother Cadfael and as dashing as Lord Peter Wimsey. Kestrel is the reigning dandy of London in the 1820s, famous for his elegant clothes and his unflappable sangfroid. One night he rescues a young aristocrat named Hugh Fontclair from a gambling house, and in gratitude Hugh invites him to be best man at his wedding. But when Kestrel goes to stay with the Fontclairs at their sumptuous country house, he is caught in the crossfire of the bride's and groom's warring families. Soon, discord erupts into murder. In a world without fingerprinting, chemical analysis, or even police, murder poses a baffling challenge. Undaunted, Kestrel sets out to solve the crime. With the help of his Cockney manservant, Dipper a (mostly) reformed pickpocket, Kestrel delves beneath the Fontclairs' respectable surface. What he finds is a trail of crime, deception, and forbidden lust that leads him at last to the killer. The combination of a new author, a charming new sleuth, and a strikingly original setting adds up to a smashing mystery that moves with force and intelligence - and expert suspense - from beginning to end." (from Goodreads)

My thoughts:

A well-crafted, good old-fashioned murder mystery featuring Regency era dandy, Julian Kestrel -- fans of Anne Perry's Victorian mysteries and the Georgette Heyer mysteries will enjoy the puzzle of whodunit in Cut to the Quick. Family secrets and scandals, an unidentified murdered body, and lots of twists and turns in the plot made this a promising beginning for the series.

Title: Cut to the Quick
Author: Kate Ross
Felony & Mayhem Press
2010
genre: mystery; Regency era

Mariana by Susanna Kearsley

"Julia Beckett believes in destiny. When she moves into Greywethers, a beautiful sixteenth-century farmhouse, she suspects that more than coincidence has brought her there. The locals are warm and welcoming, especially the eligible squire of Crofton Hall, yet beneath the ordinariness, Julia senses a haunting sadness about her new home. Then she learns of Mariana, a beautiful young woman who lived there three hundred years ago. It seems history has been waiting for Julia....." (from the publisher)

my thoughts:

Susanna Kearsley's Mariana was one of those books that I curled up with in a comfy chair and didn't come up for air until I had turned to the last page.

Haunting and romantic, with elements of reincarnation and time travel, this was a wonderful novel in the tradition of Daphne du Maurier and Mary Stewart....highly recommended for those who love stories where the present is tied to the past, suspense, and an old-fashioned second chance love story with a two-hankie ending.

Click on the trailer photo for a full-screen view of the book trailer -- it captures the haunting quality of the love story perfectly!


4.5/5 stars

Title: Mariana
Author: Susanna Kearsley
1994
395 pages
genre: romantic suspense

The Seduction of the Crimson Rose by Lauren Willig

"Determined to secure another London Season without assistance from her new brother-in-law, beautiful Mary Alsworthy accepts a secret assignment from Lord Vaughn on behalf of the Pink Carnation: to infiltrate the ranks of the dreaded French spy, The Black Tulip, before he and his master can stage their planned invasion of England. Every spy has a weakness, and for the Black Tulip that weakness is black-haired women...his petals of the tulip. A natural at the art of seduction, Mary easily catches the atention of the French spy, but Lord Vaughn never anticipates that his own heart will be caught as well. Fighting their growing attraction, impediments from their past, and, of course, the French, Mary and Vaughn find themselves lost in the shadows of a treacherous garden of lies....."

(from the publisher)

my thoughts:

So much has been written already about Willig's flowery spy series that anything I say will be redundant.....her books are just so darn clever and entertaining, and The Seduction of the Crimson Rose was no exception.

I particularly enjoyed this installment of the adventure as it featured one of my favorite characters, the ever-mysterious and enigmatic Lord Vaughn. He is older, very sophisticated and cynical, and enjoys both his wine and women to be aged and full-bodied -- no silly, innocent parlor games or sweet, simpering virgins for him, please. With his greying temples, aristocratic features and serpent-like cane, he can appear quite dangerous at times, and indeed, The Crimson Rose differs in tone from the first three books. It was much darker and more sinister than the first books in the series which tended to be lighthearted, witty romps. The relationship of Lord Vaughn and Mary Alsworthy was a slow and seductive one, and I enjoyed their clever repartee as they worked together to lure the Black Tulip into their trap.

Willig manages to pull many surprises out of her bag of tricks, as no one is really 100% dead in her spy world until there is an actual body, and the reader's patience is finally rewarded when the real identity of the Black Tulip is revealed. Plenty of intrigue, suspense, and clever tit-for-tat between Vaughn and Mary....another winner in The Pink Carnation series.

And speaking of Willig, I will be attending The Poisoned Pen Conference in Arizona next week, where I am hoping to meet Lauren Willig, among many other authors, at a Regency Tea and author events at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. I will be meeting Julie from Outlandish Dreaming, so I'm looking forward to a great time!

4/5 stars

Title: The Seduction of the Crimson Rose
Author: Lauren Willig
New American Library
2008
459 pages
genre: historical romance

The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott by Kelly O'Connor McNees

"Don't laugh at the spinsters, dear girls, for often very tender, tragic romances are hidden away in the hearts that beat so quietly under their sober gowns...."
Louisa May Alcott (Little Women)

my thoughts:

Little Women..... just thinking about Jo, Meg, Beth, Amy, Laurie, and Marmee brings back such fond memories....truly, they are old friends in the scrapbook of my memories. It was one of the first books that I read where the characters truly seemed to be alive and flesh and blood; and naturally, I was drawn to the independent and spirited bookworm, Jo. I loved her big dreams and her courageous heart, and was naive enough to believe that her adoring Laurie was the perfect choice for her happily-ever-after. Imagine my dismay when I learned that the fairy tale ending with Laurie was not to be. Kelly McNees must have had those same thoughts as she wrote, The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott.

Using history and facts from Alcott's journals and letters, Kelly McNees creates a lovely fictional account of the summer of 1855 when, as a twenty-two year old aspring writer with big dreams, Louisa moves to Walpole, New Hampshire with her family. Thankful for the charity of a generous uncle's home, the Alcott women must struggle daily to keep food on the table as their father, a philosopher and Transcendentalist, shuns working for payment. Louisa, who experiences such deep convictions of inner strength, indepedence, and a sense of self-worth, is determined to create a better life for herself than she sees for her mother and sisters. Not desiring to be burdened with society's expectations of marriage and motherhood for her, Louisa keeps her goal of becoming an independent writer firmly in her mind. The writings of Walt Whitman are the song of her heart....."I celebrate myself..."

It is during this summer that Louisa meets Joseph Singer, a likeable young man who works in his father's dry goods store. He is delighted to meet the Alcott sisters, and they begin a friendship of shared picnics, plays, and simple activities. His interest in Louisa develops over time, and although she views Joseph as a good friend, she refuses to allow her thoughts to stray from her firmly-entrenched goal of earning her own way in the world. But hearts have a way of changing, and sometimes destiny steps in and requires you to make choices and sacrifices.

A bittersweet love story, sprinkled with innocent past-times of a bygone era, The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott is a lovely tribute to a beloved author.

4/5 stars

Title: The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott
Author: Kelly O'Connor McNees
Penguin Group
2010
342 pages
genre: historical fiction

Frederica by Georgette Heyer

"When Frederica brings her younger siblings to London determined to secure a brilliant marriage for her beautiful sister, she seeks out their distant cousin, the Marquis of Alverstoke. Lovely, competent, and refreshingly straightforward, Frederica makes such a strong impression that to his own amazement, the Marquis agrees to help launch them all into society.

Lord Alverstoke can't resist wanting to help her.....Normally wary of his family, which includes two overbearing sisters and innumerable favor-seekers, Lord Alverstoke does his best to keep his distance. But with his enterprising -- and altogether entertaining -- country cousins getting into one scrape after another right on his doorstep, before he knows it the Marquis finds himself dangerously embroiled." (from the publisher)

my thoughts:

I love the world of Georgette Heyer's books -- even though Fredrica isn't at the top of my list of favorites, it certainly was enlightening about the Regency period and the glorious details of Regency society. From the elegant members of the ton, the parties and seasons they celebrate, and a gathering in Hyde Park to watch the spectacle of a manned balloon ride, Fredrica is the tale of an ordinary young woman who, along with her entire family, captures the interest and heart of the confirmed bachelor, Lord Alverstoke.

As usual, Heyer's wit is sharp and charming right from the start. Lord Alverstoke is perturbed when his two sisters approach him to help launch his nieces into society at a ball at his estate. Alverstoke is completely bored by it all and sees no reason to help his plain-jane nieces...that is, until a very distant relation, Fredrica, requests his help to introduce her exquisitely beautiful sister, Charis, to the London ton. The Marquis views this opportunity as extremely humorous -- he knows his sisters will be absolutely furious when their daughters must attend their coming-out ball along with the stunning Charis!

What I liked about this story was that Fredrica was charmingly ordinary...smart, confident, concerned about her family, and secure in the knowledge that marriage was not something she desired or needed. It was exactly this attitude that intrigued Lord Alverstoke....accustomed as he was to women going out of their way to impress him, he was blind-sided by Fredrica's disinterest in him! With a little help from Fredrica's precocious younger brothers and a runaway balloon, Fredrica and Lord Alverstoke discover what real love is all about.

3.5/5 stars


Title: Frederica
Author: Georgette Heyer
original copyright: 1965/Sourcebooks 2008
437 pages
genre: historical romance