A sweet and heartwarming episode about an exceptionally happy marriage, with an even sweeter surprise.
“Simon...” He nuzzled her ear. “Daphne...” His
A sweet and heartwarming episode about an exceptionally happy marriage, with an even sweeter surprise.
“Simon...” He nuzzled her ear. “Daphne...” His mouth moved along the line of her throat, and she felt herself melting. Twenty-one years of marriage and still... “At least draw the curtains,” she murmured.
The story is set in Jamaica, in 1870. Colin Hastings, an English nobleman is sent to his father’s sugarThis review is only for The Bird by Eli Easton.
The story is set in Jamaica, in 1870. Colin Hastings, an English nobleman is sent to his father’s sugarcane plantation to fix some managerial problems. Colin is get immediately fascinated by the native atmosphere, people, and especially by the forbidden Obeah religion practiced there. When Tiyah, a native Obeah priestess offers him a life of passion, his heart’s most secret desire, he agrees to participate in an Obeah ritual.
What if Tiyah could really do what she said? What fool, when offered one chance to rub the genie’s lamp, refused? I was not that man.
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Eli Easton’s diversity in writing always amazes me. Whatever genre she touches, she makes something spectacular of it. This story is no different: the writing, the structure, the atmosphere, the characters – all brilliantly done.
He grasped my upper arms, pulling me even closer. At that welcome, I felt a hot rush of lust and a heavy ache of affection in my chest. The feelings were so sharp and so sweet that the moment felt worth anything—any price, any punishment, even my immortal soul.
"Sometimes, what the world asks of us is wrong. And when it is that wrong, there is no honor in obeying it."
I don’t read historical romanc
"Sometimes, what the world asks of us is wrong. And when it is that wrong, there is no honor in obeying it."
I don’t read historical romances, let alone medieval ones, so I don’t really know the genre. I read it anyway, you know, because it is an Eli Easton. I’ve never thought it would affect me that much.
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The storyline was thrilling, and even though I knew beforehand that it had a HEA, I was scared and worried for the characters here and there.
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Swoon-worthy knights, a breathtakingly beautiful romance, delicious and steamy erotic scenes, exciting fights, and a wonderful ending. I loved it!! I could totally imagine this as a movie.
With all its positive features, I didn't enjoy Seeking Philbert Woodbead as much as I enjoyed Anya Wylde's first historical romance, Penelope. While PWith all its positive features, I didn't enjoy Seeking Philbert Woodbead as much as I enjoyed Anya Wylde's first historical romance, Penelope. While Penelope is highly amusing from the very beginning, I found that quality only in the last quarter of Seeking Philbert Woodbead. From the episode where Celine finds Philbert (which is pretty surprising turn by the way), the book is hilarious!
I can't help but compare... I didn't find Celine as much likeable as I did Penelope, and sadly I didn't feel the sparks between her and George until their fight in the carriage. I loved the secondary characters though: Dorothy, Penelope and Charles, and Philbert's character is nicely created too. The ball for Penelope was lovely.
Although there are many comical situations, such as the episode with the fake mustaches, I found their depictions lifeless. More dialogues would not go amiss.
Overall, despite its flaws, Seeking Philbert Woodbead is a pretty enjoyable regency romance. If you are in the mood of something light and funny, Seeking Philbert Woodbead is for you!
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange of an honest review. ...more
The characters are not engaging, I didn’t like to read their portfolios. The storyline is dull, the writinThe most infuriating story I’ve read lately.
The characters are not engaging, I didn’t like to read their portfolios. The storyline is dull, the writing is repetitive and distant. The matches are undeveloped, especially the one between the Matchmaker and Sorrell.
I couldn’t feel the attraction, there was no romance. The Queen was reported that Michael adores her, so she went “Oh, well, so I marry him.” It seems so stupid.
Just lovely! After fifteen years of crazy but unrelenting search finally Hyacinth did it! Isabella – as she is just like her mother – instinctively knJust lovely! After fifteen years of crazy but unrelenting search finally Hyacinth did it! Isabella – as she is just like her mother – instinctively knew what Hyacinth needed: she wanted to be the one who (view spoiler)[finds the diamonds. (hide spoiler)] And I hope Isabella will never tell her the truth...
Though the story is mainly about Hyacinth’s search, you also get a peek into Hyacinth and Gareth’s wonderfully happy marriage.
“Because I know you,” she said, feeling a smile growing inside. “I know you, and you know me, and it’s just the loveliest thing.”
When He Was Wicked, the story of Francesca and Michael is not my favorite book of the Bridgerton series. But this novellaIt was such a sweet surprise!
When He Was Wicked, the story of Francesca and Michael is not my favorite book of the Bridgerton series. But this novella is the best one of the second epilogues. First, it is about the two of them, and not someone else. Second, it is emotional and sweet.
“He has your eyes,” Violet said, looking up at Francesca. Frannie nodded, and her smile was almost silly, as if she couldn’t quite believe it. “I know.” “And your mouth.” “I think you’re right.” “And your—oh, my, I think he has your nose as well.” “I’m told,” Michael said in an amused voice, “that I was involved in his creation, too, but I have yet to see any evidence.” Francesca looked at him with so much love that it nearly took Violet’s breath away. “He has your charm,” she said.
This lovely story - unusually from Ms. Quinn - is told in first person, from Amanda’s viewpoint. Amanda is 19 now, and she has become an elegant, obseThis lovely story - unusually from Ms. Quinn - is told in first person, from Amanda’s viewpoint. Amanda is 19 now, and she has become an elegant, observant, and witty young lady. Not surprising, but still heartwarming to read about how much she loves her stepmother, Eloise, and how idyllic their life is. Amanda’s narration is smart and kindly sarcastic.
“It must be so very intriguing to be a twin. Tell me, dear Amanda, how is it different than not being one?” I should hope that I do not have to explain why this question was so asinine. I could hardly tell her what the difference was, as I have spent approximately one hundred percent of my life as a twin and thus have precisely zero experience at not being one.
She tells the story of meeting her future husband, Charles, and we get a glimpse of Eloise and Phillip as well.
Lovely second epilogue!
My mother insisted upon a premarital chat, but this was conducted the night before the wedding, by which time the information was no longer exactly timely...
Chronologically, the story takes place after the Bridgerton brothers’ search for Eloise when she had run away in To Sir Phillip, With Love. Colin and Chronologically, the story takes place after the Bridgerton brothers’ search for Eloise when she had run away in To Sir Phillip, With Love. Colin and Penelope are newlyweds, and aside from some sweet thoughts for each other, it is not really their second epilogue, but an additional episode to Eloise’s book, To Sir Phillip, With Love.
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Colin and Penelope travel to Romney Hall for Eloise and Phillip’s wedding, where Penelope finally reveals her long-concealed identity to Eloise. It's totally unnecessarily and overcomplicated, but the story is also full of witty dialogues, so it is amusing after all.
“Eloise,” Penelope said, somewhat breathless from trying to shake off Hyacinth. “Penelope.” But Eloise’s voice sounded curious. “Eloise,” Hyacinth said, for no reason. “Hyacinth.” Penelope turned to her husband. “Colin.” He looked amused. “Penelope. Hyacinth.” Hyacinth grinned. “Colin.” And then: “Sir Phillip.” “Ladies.” Sir Phillip, it seemed, favored brevity. “Stop!” Eloise burst out. “What is going on?” “A recitation of our Christian names, apparently,” Hyacinth said.
It is about Posy and not about Sophie and Benedict who happen to be one of my favorite couples, so it was a little disappointment for me. But just a lIt is about Posy and not about Sophie and Benedict who happen to be one of my favorite couples, so it was a little disappointment for me. But just a little, as I liked Posy’s novella very much: a budding romance is always captivating, especially love at first sight. And as usual, it's also written in a very engaging way.
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Sophie and Benedict appear in this story, and they are lovely.
Benedict nodded slowly. “Do you think I should go out there?” “Don’t you dare!” “So I’m not supposed to protect her honor?” “It’s her first kiss!” He quirked a brow. “And here we are, spying on it.” “It’s my right,” Sophie said indignantly. “I arranged the whole thing.”
It was like a mild ‘The War of the Roses’. I couldn’t find it amusing, but fortunately, Anthony
“This is Pall Mall. There is no fair play.”
It was like a mild ‘The War of the Roses’. I couldn’t find it amusing, but fortunately, Anthony and Kate’s marriage is much more harmonious than their Pall Mall-playing manners.
“All the good stuff is not for ladies,” Penelope grumbled.
Penelope is a sweet historical romantic comedy, filled with amusing and4.5 stars
“All the good stuff is not for ladies,” Penelope grumbled.
Penelope is a sweet historical romantic comedy, filled with amusing and original ideas.
Anya Wylde is a great storyteller. She smoothly carries the story forward, vividly portrays the characters, and is able to make enjoyable even the descriptive parts. You become attached to the characters soon, you can see and hear them, and feel sympathy for them.
Penelope, a country girl, with her refreshing uniqueness, arrives to spend the season in London, at the invitation of her mother’s old friend, the dowager of Blackthorne.
With her tendency to babble, and to cause embarrassing accidents, Penelope is very much out of place. But she is also kind, open, and cheerful, so she immediately wins the support and friendship of the dowager and her daughter, Lady Anne. No one in her surroundings can remain untouched by her irresistible persona, maybe except Charles, the Duke of Blackthorne, who is highly irritated by the presence of Penelope, for many reasons.
Even though he mercilessly insults her, whenever he gets the chance, it is obvious from the very beginning that Penelope and the Duke are meant for each other. But they go through many hilarious situations before they have their ‘happily ever after’.
What is not perfect
While the reader is whirled through the events of the story, some gentleness is forming between Penelope and Charles, slowly, bit by bit. It's nicely developed but about at three-quarters of the book there is a scene that breaks this development. (view spoiler)[It is the scene when Penelope sings a tavern song. (hide spoiler)] Both Penelope's and the Duke's behavior are exaggerated, and inconsistent here.
The musical scene put me off, too. I don’t really like the genre in general, but reading a musical... well... it hardly needs to be said, weird.
And I expected more laughter because of the fake moustaches.
What I loved
All of the characters are well-portrayed and kind of caricatural, and it’s okay - they are very entertaining.
The duke, the ”blasted, infuriating, heartbreakingly handsome man”, who can be so kind and thoughtful that Penelope wishes “he would do something, anything, to make her hate him again.”
Penelope, the brave, temperamental country girl, who has a special talent to turn everything upside-down. Who babbles when nervous, but she doesn't back off when she meets bandits, and never loses heart.
Lady Anne giggled. “She arrived this afternoon and has managed to annoy Charles, scare Sir Henry, horrify you and entertain me.
But not only Charles is annoyed with Penelope, they are mutually irritated by each other:
“Oh, you horrid man, I wish I could strangle you.”
The fights and teasing between them were delightful, full of suppressed tension and intensity. I loved the kisses!! How sweet they were!
And soon – due to Penelope’s charm - the duke, who never smiles, now laughs. The duke, who never apologizes, now says he is sorry. Many times.
The secondary characters are great! Lady Anne – I got to like her right in the first chapter. She is so hungry for a change, and Penelope surpasses even her wildest expectations:
Lady Anne grinned. She had never been introduced to a goat before.
Anne’s side story is great as well. Her friendship with Penelope is lovely:
“Penny, how could you behave like a total idiot?” Anne giggled. “I have no pride when it comes to winning back people I love.” Anne smiled, “I love you too, Penny.”
I loved Madame Bellafraunde’s character and lectures:
“Men find all girls in skirts desirable depending on their mood. A man need not love to make love.”
Jimmy Grey, the Falcon is hilarious!
And finally Lady Bathsheba, who has not only a personality, but also strong self-esteem:
“Lady Bathsheba doesn’t like being called a goat …,” Penelope muttered to herself.
All in all Penelope is a delightful and sweet regency romance, with lovable characters, satisfying romance, surprising twists and turns, and lots of laughter!
I would like to thank the author, Ms. Wylde, for a copy of Penelope, in exchange for an honest review. ...more
Happily Ever After is a lovely collection of second epilogues to the Bridgerton series.
The Duke and I 4 stars
A sweet and heartwarming episode about aHappily Ever After is a lovely collection of second epilogues to the Bridgerton series.
The Duke and I 4 stars
A sweet and heartwarming episode about an exceptionally happy marriage, with an even sweeter surprise.
“Simon...” He nuzzled her ear. “Daphne...” His mouth moved along the line of her throat, and she felt herself melting. Twenty-one years of marriage and still... “At least draw the curtains,” she murmured.
The Viscount Who Loved Me 2 stars (originally published as an e-short)
“This is Pall Mall. There is no fair play.”
It was like a mild The War of the Roses. I couldn’t find it amusing, but fortunately, Anthony and Kate’s marriage is much more harmonious than their Pall Mall-playing manners.
An Offer From a Gentleman 4 stars (originally published as an e-short)
It is about Posy and not about Sophie and Benedict who happen to be one of my favorite couples, so it was a little disappointment for me. But just a little, as I liked Posy’s novella very much: a budding romance is always captivating, especially love at first sight. And as usual, it's also written in a very engaging way.
Sophie and Benedict appear in this story, and they are lovely.
Benedict nodded slowly. “Do you think I should go out there?” “Don’t you dare!” “So I’m not supposed to protect her honor?” “It’s her first kiss!” He quirked a brow. “And here we are, spying on it.” “It’s my right,” Sophie said indignantly. “I arranged the whole thing.”
Romancing Mister Bridgerton 3 stars (originally published as an e-short)
Chronologically, the story takes place after the Bridgerton brothers’ search for Eloise when she had run away in To Sir Phillip, With Love. Colin and Penelope are newlyweds, and aside from some sweet thoughts for each other, it is not really their second epilogue, but an additional episode to Eloise’s book, To Sir Phillip, With Love.
Colin and Penelope travel to Romney Hall for Eloise and Phillip’s wedding, where Penelope finally reveals her long-concealed identity to Eloise. It's totally unnecessarily and overcomplicated, but the story is also full of witty dialogues, so it is amusing after all.
“Eloise,” Penelope said, somewhat breathless from trying to shake off Hyacinth. “Penelope.” But Eloise’s voice sounded curious. “Eloise,” Hyacinth said, for no reason. “Hyacinth.” Penelope turned to her husband. “Colin.” He looked amused. “Penelope. Hyacinth.” Hyacinth grinned. “Colin.” And then: “Sir Phillip.” “Ladies.” Sir Phillip, it seemed, favored brevity. “Stop!” Eloise burst out. “What is going on?” “A recitation of our Christian names, apparently,” Hyacinth said.
To Sir Phillip, With Love 4 stars
This lovely story - unusually from Ms. Quinn - is told in first person, from Amanda’s viewpoint. Amanda now is 19, and has become an elegant, observant, and witty young lady. Not surprising, but still heartwarming to read about how much she loves her stepmother, Eloise, and how idyllic their life is. Amanda’s narration is smart and kindly sarcastic.
She tells the story of meeting her future husband, Charles, and we get a glimpse of Eloise and Phillip as well.
“My mother insisted upon a premarital chat, but this was conducted the night before the wedding, by which time the information was no longer exactly timely...”
Lovely second epilogue!
When He Was Wicked 5 stars
It was such a sweet surprise!
When He Was Wicked, the story of Francesca and Michael is not my favorite book of the Bridgerton series. But this novella is the best one of the second epilogues. First, it is about the two of them, and not someone else. Second, it is emotional and sweet.
“He has your eyes,” Violet said, looking up at Francesca. Frannie nodded, and her smile was almost silly, as if she couldn’t quite believe it. “I know.” “And your mouth.” “I think you’re right.” “And your—oh, my, I think he has your nose as well.” “I’m told,” Michael said in an amused voice, “that I was involved in his creation, too, but I have yet to see any evidence.” Francesca looked at him with so much love that it nearly took Violet’s breath away. “He has your charm,” she said.
It’s In His Kiss 4 stars (originally published as an e-short)
Just lovely! After fifteen years of crazy but unrelenting search finally Hyacinth did it! Isabella – as she is just like her mother – instinctively knew what Hyacinth needed: she wanted to be the one who (view spoiler)[finds the diamonds. (hide spoiler)] And I hope Isabella will never tell her the truth... Though the story is mainly about Hyacinth’s search, you also get a peek into Hyacinth and Gareth’s wonderfully happy marriage.
On the Way to the Wedding 1 star
The second epilogue continues exactly when the first one ends: the birth of Lucy and Gregory’s twins. Drama, drama, drama. Plus unimaginative and boring names for the babies.
Violet in Bloom 5 stars
Violet in Bloom is Violet Bridgerton’s well-deserved story. It is funny, beautiful, heartbreaking, and tragic, but it also makes you smile. And eventually – aside from Edmund’s death – it couldn’t have happened any other way. ...more
It is a charming, sweet, adventurous historical romance with lots of humor, mystery, and loveable characters.
Finnula is kind, generous, witty, and stIt is a charming, sweet, adventurous historical romance with lots of humor, mystery, and loveable characters.
Finnula is kind, generous, witty, and stubborn. I really liked her relationship with her siblings and the villagers.
Hugo's so gallant, quick-witted, and open about his feelings and intentions.
Both Finnula’a and Hugo’s personalities and motivation are nicely elaborated, and the secondary characters are also well-drawn, and distinguishable: Finnula’s family members, Peter, the Laroche family, the troubadour, Brissac sheriff, even the sheriff’s mom.
The dialogues are sparkling, the banter between Finnula and Hugo are delightful, and very enjoyable.
Wholeheartedly recommended to historical romance readers....more
The last installment of the Bridgertons series is the story of Gregory and Lucy. It was a disappointment. The first part of the novel is boring, the eThe last installment of the Bridgertons series is the story of Gregory and Lucy. It was a disappointment. The first part of the novel is boring, the end is forced, the dialogues are faint and full of repetitions, and I was annoyed by Gregory's constantly growling stomach.
In this book everything is overdrawn: • Gregory’s rhapsodic emotions; • Lucy’s sense of duty and devotion; • Hermione’s beauty and praising it to the skies; • Some romantic scenes – especially (view spoiler)[the falling star after their first night together (hide spoiler)] – what a cliché! • Drama: blackmail, hostage crisis, and shooting affair; • The number of children.
However, it has positive aspects too. Gregory and Lucy have some sweet moments, and the secondary characters – Lady Bridgerton, Hyacinth, Lord Haselby and Hermione - are very likeable, and they undoubtedly benefit the story.
Another favorite from the Bridgertons series! Just like An Offer From a Gentleman and To Sir Phillip, With Love, it is a sweet, light romance with lotAnother favorite from the Bridgertons series! Just like An Offer From a Gentleman and To Sir Phillip, With Love, it is a sweet, light romance with lots of humor.
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I loved both Gareth and Hyacinth. All of their dialogues and scenes, especially the erotic ones, were fascinating. Even the Smythe-Smith performances were delightful with them.
The appearances of Lady Danbury, Lady Bridgerton and Gregory make the novel even more enjoyable.
When He Was Wicked is the sixth installment of the Bridgertons series by Julia Quinn. It is about Francesca Bridgerton, who had a love marriage, but hWhen He Was Wicked is the sixth installment of the Bridgertons series by Julia Quinn. It is about Francesca Bridgerton, who had a love marriage, but her husband died two years ago. Her husband’s cousin, Michael, is in love with her since they first met, and slowly Francesca realizes that she feels the same for him.
There is a serious problem with Francesca's character: her grief is not real, and her dilemma is exaggerated. She's already decided to marry again, so I really don’t understand her hesitation. She's dishonest and a hypocrite.
I liked Michael though. He is aware of his own feelings, and his inner conflict is genuine. He is seductive, intelligent, and has a good sense of humor. The only mystery is about him that why he falls in love with Francesca.
The writing style is also lacking: the dialogues are not as enjoyable and sparkling as they were in the previous books. Some of them are needlessly long and irrelevant.
When He Was Wicked is my least favorite in the Bridgertons series. ...more
An amazing installment of the Bridgertons series again!
It deals with serious issues such as depression, suicide, grief, guilt. The characters strugglAn amazing installment of the Bridgertons series again!
It deals with serious issues such as depression, suicide, grief, guilt. The characters struggle with real problems, and ambivalent feelings. Ambivalence makes this novel so real, because feelings and relationships are never black or white. The tone of the story mirrors this: it's light and humorous, but also serious and heartbreaking.
I loved Phillip's character. He is so lonely. He suffers from the memory of his painful childhood, and suffocates with guilt he feels for his tragic first marriage. He loves his children more than anything, but he is unable to be affectionate with them. He is earnest and reserved, and always does the right thing. But by the side of Eloise he becomes more open and easy-going.
Eloise longs to be married and have her own family. Although she is 28, she is not bitter, and doesn't settle for anything less than a love marriage. She is vibrant, outspoken, curious, and insistent. I liked her very much.
The chemistry between them is real, the erotic scenes are authentic, and not awkward at all.
My favorite scene is the entrée of the Bridgerton brothers into Phillip’s home.
Colin is a sweet guy. He is always cheerful, always nice. He doesn't have dark secrets, or a tragic past, not even problems. Oh, wait, he has2.5 stars
Colin is a sweet guy. He is always cheerful, always nice. He doesn't have dark secrets, or a tragic past, not even problems. Oh, wait, he has: he wants to leave something significant in the world. He is a talented writer, but he is too hesitant and shy, and he vacillates to publish his works. Is that really a serious problem? His character is too lightweight, he is too gentle, too sweet. He is even-tempered, and the one time he loses his head, even he is surprised by it.
But I loved Penelope. Her character is genuine and consistent. She is timid and reserved, but she can carry her point, and can be determinate. She is also very endearing, witty, and has an ironic sense of humor.
The identity of Lady Whistledown is revealed in this book, but it is not as striking as I expected.
Overall Romancing Mr. Bridgerton is an enjoyable romance, but the story and the characters (with the exception of Penelope) haven't left a deep impression on me.
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