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Recommend this book:
Pericles and Aspasia
A Story of Ancient Greece
Yvonne Korshak
2024 Finalist
500 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Pericles and Aspasia by Yvonne Korshak revolves around the love story of the two titular characters in ancient Greece. In her late teens, Aspasia escapes from a pirate ship and swims to shore. Her philosopher father is dead, and the ship's captain was sexually abusing her, leading to her becoming a courtesan in Athens in order to survive. At a gathering, she meets Pericles, the famous Athenian leader. Pericles is immediately attracted to Aspasia as she proves herself to be deeply intelligent and well-read. They become lovers and their relationship is steadfast during multiple campaigns and Pericles's role as a general and statesman. Pericles divorces his wife to be with Aspasia and continues to grow Athens into a cultural and architectural powerhouse. Despite their critics, the pair is dedicated to one another, and together they face the challenges of Aspasia's background and Pericles' public image.
I did not know anything about this quite famous historical couple, Pericles and Aspasia, when I picked up Yvonne Korshak's sweeping saga. My interest stemmed from an upcoming trip to the Greek Isles that culminates in Athens. I was keen to read a novel that would enable me to form a connection to what I will see with actual people, beyond mere massive ruins surrounded by gawking but otherwise unknowing tourists. Yes, this is fiction, but only in the sense that Korshak, quite brilliantly, turns Pericles and Aspasia into lifelike people and formulates conversations and landscapes that fill in the blanks. The milestones of the age, which are Herculean in scope, are provided with spectacular context. I loved the Name Day celebration of Pericles's son, and having recently been in Turkey at the site of ancient Troy, scenes like Pericles's orchestration of a peace treaty with Sparta tickled me a bit. Different stories with recognizable parties. The political, cultural, historical, and personal aspects are really wonderful and I am certain those readers who love historical fiction will feel the same. Very highly recommended.
Pericles and Aspasia by Yvonne Korshak revolves around the love story of the two titular characters in ancient Greece. In her late teens, Aspasia escapes from a pirate ship and swims to shore. Her philosopher father is dead, and the ship's captain was sexually abusing her, leading to her becoming a courtesan in Athens in order to survive. At a gathering, she meets Pericles, the famous Athenian leader. Pericles is immediately attracted to Aspasia as she proves herself to be deeply intelligent and well-read. They become lovers and their relationship is steadfast during multiple campaigns and Pericles's role as a general and statesman. Pericles divorces his wife to be with Aspasia and continues to grow Athens into a cultural and architectural powerhouse. Despite their critics, the pair is dedicated to one another, and together they face the challenges of Aspasia's background and Pericles' public image.
I did not know anything about this quite famous historical couple, Pericles and Aspasia, when I picked up Yvonne Korshak's sweeping saga. My interest stemmed from an upcoming trip to the Greek Isles that culminates in Athens. I was keen to read a novel that would enable me to form a connection to what I will see with actual people, beyond mere massive ruins surrounded by gawking but otherwise unknowing tourists. Yes, this is fiction, but only in the sense that Korshak, quite brilliantly, turns Pericles and Aspasia into lifelike people and formulates conversations and landscapes that fill in the blanks. The milestones of the age, which are Herculean in scope, are provided with spectacular context. I loved the Name Day celebration of Pericles's son, and having recently been in Turkey at the site of ancient Troy, scenes like Pericles's orchestration of a peace treaty with Sparta tickled me a bit. Different stories with recognizable parties. The political, cultural, historical, and personal aspects are really wonderful and I am certain those readers who love historical fiction will feel the same. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Castilian Pomegranate
The Castilian Saga Book 2
Anna Belfrage
2024 Honorable Mention
398 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Castilian Pomegranate is a work of historical fiction penned by author Anna Belfrage. The work forms the second book of The Castilian Saga and is written for the mature adult reading audience owing to the presence of sexual situations and graphic violence appropriate to the brutality of the time. In the thirteen century, we find ourselves back with Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor, where they have been tasked with an impossible, heart-wrenching chore. The couple has been asked to abandon their foster son Lionel while overseas and to recover a precious jewel – the titular Castilian Pomegranate – but both of these tasks have their own sets of danger and resistance.
Author Anna Belfrage packs a lot into this immersive and engaging historical novel. Yet, it also seemed to fly by in a flurry of excitement because it was so easy to read. The historical details of the work were finely tuned and cinematically descriptive, giving a wonderful sensory feel to the experiences of our central characters. I enjoyed Noor’s energy and fierce nature very much in a new land with new encounters, but I also felt for her deeply when she was put to the test. I also enjoyed the overtones of the period itself, nuanced as it was with the political climate, cultural tensions, and power struggles of the day. This makes for a compelling and believable read with real people who you care for deeply by the novel’s conclusion. Overall, I would highly recommend The Castilian Pomegranate for fans of exciting historical adventure, romance, and drama who are keen to encounter a talented writer and a standout series.
The Castilian Pomegranate is a work of historical fiction penned by author Anna Belfrage. The work forms the second book of The Castilian Saga and is written for the mature adult reading audience owing to the presence of sexual situations and graphic violence appropriate to the brutality of the time. In the thirteen century, we find ourselves back with Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor, where they have been tasked with an impossible, heart-wrenching chore. The couple has been asked to abandon their foster son Lionel while overseas and to recover a precious jewel – the titular Castilian Pomegranate – but both of these tasks have their own sets of danger and resistance.
Author Anna Belfrage packs a lot into this immersive and engaging historical novel. Yet, it also seemed to fly by in a flurry of excitement because it was so easy to read. The historical details of the work were finely tuned and cinematically descriptive, giving a wonderful sensory feel to the experiences of our central characters. I enjoyed Noor’s energy and fierce nature very much in a new land with new encounters, but I also felt for her deeply when she was put to the test. I also enjoyed the overtones of the period itself, nuanced as it was with the political climate, cultural tensions, and power struggles of the day. This makes for a compelling and believable read with real people who you care for deeply by the novel’s conclusion. Overall, I would highly recommend The Castilian Pomegranate for fans of exciting historical adventure, romance, and drama who are keen to encounter a talented writer and a standout series.
Recommend this book:
The Earl’s Promised Bride
One Night in Blackhaven, Book 2
Mary Lancaster
2024 Bronze Medal
254 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Maalin Ogaja for Readers' Favorite
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster presents an enchanting historical romance set in Regency England. Lucy Vale, attending her first ball, is immediately drawn to a stranger whose vibrant energy seems to match her own. Despite the impropriety, she embarks on an adventure with him, nearly avoiding trouble with one of her brothers. The stranger whom she soon learns is named Tyler, lingers in her thoughts long after their encounter. Tyler stirs unexpected feelings in Lucy, making her dread her imminent meeting with her betrothed, Lord Eddleston, a man she has never met. With Tyler sharing her feelings, Lucy faces uncertainty—will her brothers permit her to marry a man of Tyler’s standing, or is there more to the story that could allow them to be together?
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster masterfully balances romance and intrigue with exciting, thrilling moments. I loved the historical context with a strict code of conduct and emphasis on reputation that created obstacles for the characters. The dynamics of arranged marriages and the pursuit of advantageous alliances added layers to the plotline. I appreciated Lancaster's thoughtful exploration of women’s lives in this period; for instance, Lucy encouraging her friend Hester to make a choice that is right for her highlights a theme of personal growth and empowerment. Lucy and Tyler’s love story was so heartwarming, building gradually and realistically, with plot twists that kept the story engaging to the very end. I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a well-crafted historical romance with compelling characters and an engaging storyline.
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster presents an enchanting historical romance set in Regency England. Lucy Vale, attending her first ball, is immediately drawn to a stranger whose vibrant energy seems to match her own. Despite the impropriety, she embarks on an adventure with him, nearly avoiding trouble with one of her brothers. The stranger whom she soon learns is named Tyler, lingers in her thoughts long after their encounter. Tyler stirs unexpected feelings in Lucy, making her dread her imminent meeting with her betrothed, Lord Eddleston, a man she has never met. With Tyler sharing her feelings, Lucy faces uncertainty—will her brothers permit her to marry a man of Tyler’s standing, or is there more to the story that could allow them to be together?
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster masterfully balances romance and intrigue with exciting, thrilling moments. I loved the historical context with a strict code of conduct and emphasis on reputation that created obstacles for the characters. The dynamics of arranged marriages and the pursuit of advantageous alliances added layers to the plotline. I appreciated Lancaster's thoughtful exploration of women’s lives in this period; for instance, Lucy encouraging her friend Hester to make a choice that is right for her highlights a theme of personal growth and empowerment. Lucy and Tyler’s love story was so heartwarming, building gradually and realistically, with plot twists that kept the story engaging to the very end. I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a well-crafted historical romance with compelling characters and an engaging storyline.
Recommend this book:
A Regrettable Charade
Lords & Ladies of Mayfair Book 6
Laura Beers
2024 Silver Medal
322 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
A Regrettable Charade is a work of fiction penned by author Laura Beers in the historical romance, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres, and is the sixth novel in the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair book series. The work is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The saga continues as we are introduced to Lady Octavia Westlake, who, driven by a promise to her ailing mother, faces the glittering but demanding social season with trepidation. Amidst persistent advances from a rake, she grapples with societal expectations. The Marquess of Kendal, Harred Woodville, plagued by a fear of failure, encounters Octavia unexpectedly, sparking an intriguing connection. Their friendship deepens as they unite to ease Octavia's mother's suffering, providing solace in each other's company. Yet, looming danger challenges their choices and commitment to love and happiness.
Author Laura Beers has crafted a delightful journey into Regency romance with a compelling narrative, adeptly blending societal expectations, the fear of failure, and the blossoming of an unexpected connection. The characters of Octavia and Harred are nuanced and endearing. I really enjoyed the careful crafting of their relationship dynamic with attitudes that are suitable for the time but also reflect emotional sensibilities and intrinsically human emotions that we all recognize, making their journey relatable and engaging. The novel masterfully captures the spirit of the Regency era, too, in its excellent employment of atmospheric description, attention to detail, and rakish wit while delivering a clean and wholesome romance that readers of all sensibilities can enjoy. Beers weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and suspenseful to the very end in a captivating addition to the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair series. Overall, I would certainly recommend A Regrettable Charade to fans of the series so far.
A Regrettable Charade is a work of fiction penned by author Laura Beers in the historical romance, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres, and is the sixth novel in the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair book series. The work is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The saga continues as we are introduced to Lady Octavia Westlake, who, driven by a promise to her ailing mother, faces the glittering but demanding social season with trepidation. Amidst persistent advances from a rake, she grapples with societal expectations. The Marquess of Kendal, Harred Woodville, plagued by a fear of failure, encounters Octavia unexpectedly, sparking an intriguing connection. Their friendship deepens as they unite to ease Octavia's mother's suffering, providing solace in each other's company. Yet, looming danger challenges their choices and commitment to love and happiness.
Author Laura Beers has crafted a delightful journey into Regency romance with a compelling narrative, adeptly blending societal expectations, the fear of failure, and the blossoming of an unexpected connection. The characters of Octavia and Harred are nuanced and endearing. I really enjoyed the careful crafting of their relationship dynamic with attitudes that are suitable for the time but also reflect emotional sensibilities and intrinsically human emotions that we all recognize, making their journey relatable and engaging. The novel masterfully captures the spirit of the Regency era, too, in its excellent employment of atmospheric description, attention to detail, and rakish wit while delivering a clean and wholesome romance that readers of all sensibilities can enjoy. Beers weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and suspenseful to the very end in a captivating addition to the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair series. Overall, I would certainly recommend A Regrettable Charade to fans of the series so far.
Recommend this book:
The Black Dragon
The Executioner Knights Book 14
Kathryn Le Veque
2024 Gold Medal
338 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Black Dragon is the fourteenth book in The Executioner Knights series by Kathryn Le Veque, but it reads as a standalone story. Amid medieval England's tournaments, Addax, a skilled and wealthy knight, is torn between loyalty and duty. He came to England as a young man with a caravan and worked through the ranks, from a page to a knight to becoming a member of the Executioner Knights serving William Marshal. Addax has built a life for himself. Everything changes when he's drawn into the troubled marriage of his friend Maximillian de Grey. When Maximillian marries Emmeline de Witt, following his father's wishes, Addax leaves jousting to help secure his friend's new legacy. But as he witnesses Maximillian's cruel treatment of his wife, Addax is forced to confront his desires and make a choice that will forever alter the course of his life.
This novel is the well-crafted suspenseful story of a man caught up in a strong moral dilemma, wrestling with internal conflicts and struggling to balance his sense of morality with duty and loyalty. Readers are kept on edge to see what happens next. Kathryn Le Veque brings to life the world of medieval tournaments, crafting a tale of romance and adventure that will captivate readers. She enthralls with her colorful, sophisticated cast of characters. The dynamics between the key characters, especially Addax and Maximilian, are skillfully drawn. The contrast between the two characters, their sense of honor and how they treat women, stands out in this captivating narrative. The writing is exceptional and filled with intriguing details. The Black Dragon is an immersive tale that entertains and entices readers with solid historical elements and relatable characters.
The Black Dragon is the fourteenth book in The Executioner Knights series by Kathryn Le Veque, but it reads as a standalone story. Amid medieval England's tournaments, Addax, a skilled and wealthy knight, is torn between loyalty and duty. He came to England as a young man with a caravan and worked through the ranks, from a page to a knight to becoming a member of the Executioner Knights serving William Marshal. Addax has built a life for himself. Everything changes when he's drawn into the troubled marriage of his friend Maximillian de Grey. When Maximillian marries Emmeline de Witt, following his father's wishes, Addax leaves jousting to help secure his friend's new legacy. But as he witnesses Maximillian's cruel treatment of his wife, Addax is forced to confront his desires and make a choice that will forever alter the course of his life.
This novel is the well-crafted suspenseful story of a man caught up in a strong moral dilemma, wrestling with internal conflicts and struggling to balance his sense of morality with duty and loyalty. Readers are kept on edge to see what happens next. Kathryn Le Veque brings to life the world of medieval tournaments, crafting a tale of romance and adventure that will captivate readers. She enthralls with her colorful, sophisticated cast of characters. The dynamics between the key characters, especially Addax and Maximilian, are skillfully drawn. The contrast between the two characters, their sense of honor and how they treat women, stands out in this captivating narrative. The writing is exceptional and filled with intriguing details. The Black Dragon is an immersive tale that entertains and entices readers with solid historical elements and relatable characters.
Recommend this book:
Enticing the Earl
Kathleen Ayers
2023 Finalist
166 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
The third book of The Arrogant Earls series, Enticing the Earl focuses on Oleana Honeywell and Lord Jason Montieth. Author Kathleen Ayers portrays Oleana’s quandary as a housekeeper who doesn’t know how to do the job. She is a vicar’s widow and the owner of a large farm that her in-laws want. Her grandmother gave her a recommendation letter from the aunt of Lord Monteith, but Oleana shows up and presents the letter to the arrogant butler, Wilbert. She gains the affection of Elizabeth Monteith, and Lord Monteith notices Elizabeth’s happiness has improved; he starts to see Oleana is quite desirable, and the possibility of a romantic connection may exist. However, he knows something is off about what Oleana has told him.
Oleana’s clumsiness constantly draws unwanted attention, especially from the snide butler. Wilbert was just plain snobby, and I felt he overstepped boundaries by constantly chastising her. Carrot the cat was a wildcard, as the feline seems to use Montieth’s private study as the perfect place to hide. I loved how endearing Elizabeth appears to be; having lost her mother when she was young, she is polite and caring. Lord Montieth’s actions with Oleana increase the tension throughout the story. One moment he is passionate towards her and the next, he is berating her. Oleana’s hidden secrets become Lord Montieth’s focus and this engrossed me in the story. The supporting characters filled the house with rumors and influenced the unpredictable direction of the story. Enticing The Earl by Kathleen Ayers will capture the hearts of readers who enjoy a light read with a little dramatic content.
The third book of The Arrogant Earls series, Enticing the Earl focuses on Oleana Honeywell and Lord Jason Montieth. Author Kathleen Ayers portrays Oleana’s quandary as a housekeeper who doesn’t know how to do the job. She is a vicar’s widow and the owner of a large farm that her in-laws want. Her grandmother gave her a recommendation letter from the aunt of Lord Monteith, but Oleana shows up and presents the letter to the arrogant butler, Wilbert. She gains the affection of Elizabeth Monteith, and Lord Monteith notices Elizabeth’s happiness has improved; he starts to see Oleana is quite desirable, and the possibility of a romantic connection may exist. However, he knows something is off about what Oleana has told him.
Oleana’s clumsiness constantly draws unwanted attention, especially from the snide butler. Wilbert was just plain snobby, and I felt he overstepped boundaries by constantly chastising her. Carrot the cat was a wildcard, as the feline seems to use Montieth’s private study as the perfect place to hide. I loved how endearing Elizabeth appears to be; having lost her mother when she was young, she is polite and caring. Lord Montieth’s actions with Oleana increase the tension throughout the story. One moment he is passionate towards her and the next, he is berating her. Oleana’s hidden secrets become Lord Montieth’s focus and this engrossed me in the story. The supporting characters filled the house with rumors and influenced the unpredictable direction of the story. Enticing The Earl by Kathleen Ayers will capture the hearts of readers who enjoy a light read with a little dramatic content.
Recommend this book:
Darcy
A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Alice McVeigh
2023 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Alice McVeigh places us back in the Regency era with the familiar Charles Bingley considering renting Netherfield, and Jane and Elizabeth Bennet jesting about Mr. Bingley's intentions. The family is excited and hopes are high when the ball follows with the titular Mr. Darcy in attendance. The classic story is left intact with McVeigh filling in Darcy's blanks in Austenesque prose. George Wickham's arrival causes tension, Elizabeth cares for her sick sister Jane at Netherfield amidst Miss Bingley's criticism, and Darcy's defense of Elizabeth's family status emerges in conversations. Miss Bingley's aversion and Darcy's growing admiration for Elizabeth are revealed through his diary entries, as are family concerns, and eventual tensions. Darcy, however, has a dark secret that he left pining for him back in Italy. He must work through his deepening feelings for Elizabeth while trying to mitigate two potential scandals.
Alice McVeigh delivers one of the best expansions on Jane Austen's most beloved novel that I have come across in Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation. There is an onslaught of books that attempt the similar floating around there, but McVeigh succeeds as a result of prose that sings with intelligent wit and a collection of voices that sound deeply authentic. We know these characters already, and McVeigh understands and respects this. I enjoyed the murkiness of Darcy's connection to a songbird in Rome and having that in my back pocket went a long way in fleshing out his probable resistance to Elizabeth. It is through journal entries that this is revealed and, as Austen herself would have done, McVeigh sends the wonderful Colonel Fitzwilliam to Italy to try to salvage Darcy's reputation. Giuditta is a spanner I had so much fun working through, piling up on top of the familiar Lydia Bennett and the backstory of the prior Georgiana mess. The period details, dialogue, and storytelling are all spectacular, and Darcy was an absolute joy to read. Very highly recommended.
Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Alice McVeigh places us back in the Regency era with the familiar Charles Bingley considering renting Netherfield, and Jane and Elizabeth Bennet jesting about Mr. Bingley's intentions. The family is excited and hopes are high when the ball follows with the titular Mr. Darcy in attendance. The classic story is left intact with McVeigh filling in Darcy's blanks in Austenesque prose. George Wickham's arrival causes tension, Elizabeth cares for her sick sister Jane at Netherfield amidst Miss Bingley's criticism, and Darcy's defense of Elizabeth's family status emerges in conversations. Miss Bingley's aversion and Darcy's growing admiration for Elizabeth are revealed through his diary entries, as are family concerns, and eventual tensions. Darcy, however, has a dark secret that he left pining for him back in Italy. He must work through his deepening feelings for Elizabeth while trying to mitigate two potential scandals.
Alice McVeigh delivers one of the best expansions on Jane Austen's most beloved novel that I have come across in Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation. There is an onslaught of books that attempt the similar floating around there, but McVeigh succeeds as a result of prose that sings with intelligent wit and a collection of voices that sound deeply authentic. We know these characters already, and McVeigh understands and respects this. I enjoyed the murkiness of Darcy's connection to a songbird in Rome and having that in my back pocket went a long way in fleshing out his probable resistance to Elizabeth. It is through journal entries that this is revealed and, as Austen herself would have done, McVeigh sends the wonderful Colonel Fitzwilliam to Italy to try to salvage Darcy's reputation. Giuditta is a spanner I had so much fun working through, piling up on top of the familiar Lydia Bennett and the backstory of the prior Georgiana mess. The period details, dialogue, and storytelling are all spectacular, and Darcy was an absolute joy to read. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
A Dutiful Son
A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Kelly Miller
2023 Bronze Medal
326 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha for Readers' Favorite
A Dutiful Son by Kelly Miller retells the phenomenal classic Pride and Prejudice written by Jane Austen. This Regency variation follows the story through Fitzwilliam Darcy. Darcy belongs to the upper echelon of society. He has always been a loyal and dutiful son to his father. However, a change in his father's perspective on social classes and emphasis on maintaining one's high social standing makes it difficult for Darcy to navigate his relations with friends and family acquaintances. Also, his budding relationship with Elizabeth threatens his role as a son. As the story advances, Darcy wishes nothing more than his father's approval to pursue Elizabeth. His duty is on one side and love on the other.
Through this retelling of the much-loved classic romance, author Kelly Miller gives an in-depth look into the character of Mr. Darcy. The development of all the significant characters like Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana is incredible. Readers learn why Darcy is the way he is. In the original plot, we do not understand the reason behind his cold attitude toward Elizabeth, but the answers can be found in this version. It helps in understanding the complexity of his character, like why he doesn't associate with people outside the upper classes and doesn't smile like everyone at parties.
The narration presents an apt depiction of the Regency period. The vivid descriptions of the dress, music, dances, the lush green estates of the countryside, etc., create an excellent pictorial representation. It is exciting to get glimpses of people's lives from that era. It's like time-traveling into the past. The storyline has kept the essence of Austen's work intact. It also represents the prevalent class structure of the era. For instance, Elizabeth and her sisters belonged to a well-known family in Hertfordshire. Still, due to their lower status compared to Darcy and Bingley, their romantic lives were not initially smooth. Overall, this was an excellent reading experience, and I highly recommend A Dutiful Son by Kelly Miller to classic fiction fans.
A Dutiful Son by Kelly Miller retells the phenomenal classic Pride and Prejudice written by Jane Austen. This Regency variation follows the story through Fitzwilliam Darcy. Darcy belongs to the upper echelon of society. He has always been a loyal and dutiful son to his father. However, a change in his father's perspective on social classes and emphasis on maintaining one's high social standing makes it difficult for Darcy to navigate his relations with friends and family acquaintances. Also, his budding relationship with Elizabeth threatens his role as a son. As the story advances, Darcy wishes nothing more than his father's approval to pursue Elizabeth. His duty is on one side and love on the other.
Through this retelling of the much-loved classic romance, author Kelly Miller gives an in-depth look into the character of Mr. Darcy. The development of all the significant characters like Darcy, Elizabeth, and Georgiana is incredible. Readers learn why Darcy is the way he is. In the original plot, we do not understand the reason behind his cold attitude toward Elizabeth, but the answers can be found in this version. It helps in understanding the complexity of his character, like why he doesn't associate with people outside the upper classes and doesn't smile like everyone at parties.
The narration presents an apt depiction of the Regency period. The vivid descriptions of the dress, music, dances, the lush green estates of the countryside, etc., create an excellent pictorial representation. It is exciting to get glimpses of people's lives from that era. It's like time-traveling into the past. The storyline has kept the essence of Austen's work intact. It also represents the prevalent class structure of the era. For instance, Elizabeth and her sisters belonged to a well-known family in Hertfordshire. Still, due to their lower status compared to Darcy and Bingley, their romantic lives were not initially smooth. Overall, this was an excellent reading experience, and I highly recommend A Dutiful Son by Kelly Miller to classic fiction fans.
Recommend this book:
Winning Her Highland Warrior
Maeve Greyson
2023 Silver Medal
271 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Winning Her Highland Warrior by Maeve Greyson is an endearing flight of fancy time-travel romance in which a brilliant microbiologist with poor social skills accidentally plunges into the murky depths of a Highland loch, only to emerge in 14th-century Scotland after being saved by a Scottish warlord. The warlord, Kane Macpherson, believes that our gal, Satia St. Clair, is of royal blood, a rare beauty in need of help, and Kane is happy to be of service. Satia tries to maintain a safe distance from this fine specimen of masculinity, and the thought of being drawn to him frightens her. She has important research to do and needs to get back to her time in 2021 to continue her work on cancer studies. Besides, she thinks that true love does not exist anywhere but in books.
Time travel involves so many technicalities so you can buy the idea that Satia tries to remain realistic despite the bizarre experience. In a romantic fantasy such as Winning Her Highland Warrior, it works. You can tell the level of diligence that went into this work judging from Maeve Greyson’s narrative and research. Satia and Kane are polar opposites that reflect the time or period where they belong. In this regard, the novel becomes more about Satia’s social anachronisms in a world saturated by ancient weapons, leather belts, and heavy Scottish accents. What’s great about this story is that it does not depend too much on the developing romance between the protagonists. Instead, Greyson throws intense conflict into the plot that truly puts Satia in a 14th-century predicament. It’s a powerful blend of plot, setting, and character that keeps you engaged. If you enjoy watching romantic fantasy films like Kate and Leopold, this novel will strongly appeal to you.
Winning Her Highland Warrior by Maeve Greyson is an endearing flight of fancy time-travel romance in which a brilliant microbiologist with poor social skills accidentally plunges into the murky depths of a Highland loch, only to emerge in 14th-century Scotland after being saved by a Scottish warlord. The warlord, Kane Macpherson, believes that our gal, Satia St. Clair, is of royal blood, a rare beauty in need of help, and Kane is happy to be of service. Satia tries to maintain a safe distance from this fine specimen of masculinity, and the thought of being drawn to him frightens her. She has important research to do and needs to get back to her time in 2021 to continue her work on cancer studies. Besides, she thinks that true love does not exist anywhere but in books.
Time travel involves so many technicalities so you can buy the idea that Satia tries to remain realistic despite the bizarre experience. In a romantic fantasy such as Winning Her Highland Warrior, it works. You can tell the level of diligence that went into this work judging from Maeve Greyson’s narrative and research. Satia and Kane are polar opposites that reflect the time or period where they belong. In this regard, the novel becomes more about Satia’s social anachronisms in a world saturated by ancient weapons, leather belts, and heavy Scottish accents. What’s great about this story is that it does not depend too much on the developing romance between the protagonists. Instead, Greyson throws intense conflict into the plot that truly puts Satia in a 14th-century predicament. It’s a powerful blend of plot, setting, and character that keeps you engaged. If you enjoy watching romantic fantasy films like Kate and Leopold, this novel will strongly appeal to you.
Recommend this book:
Master of the Dawn
A Medieval Romance
Kathryn Le Veque
2023 Gold Medal
301 Pages
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha for Readers' Favorite
Master of the Dawn is the fifth book in the De Rayne Domination series by Kathryn Le Veque. The book is set in medieval England, filled with castles, knights, and politics. Lorica de la Beauvriere does not wish to see Sir Galen Burleson; he is rude, arrogant, and full of himself. However, Sir Galen is smitten by Lady Lorica of St. Nicholas Court, who is angelic and brilliant but has too many suitors. When Galen and Lorica find themselves bound in marriage, they cannot ignore the sparks that fly between them, but dark secrets from the past haunt them. Will their love conquer the world, or consume them?
Master of the Dawn is a delectable romance in a historical setting. The reader is transported to a world of flowing dresses and looming castles. The plot is not very complex and is driven mainly by the characters, from Galen and Lorica through to the supporting cast, and all are delightfully portrayed. I especially enjoy the bonding of Galen with the Rayne brothers. The romance is gentle and charming, with a tinge of spice, particularly within the arranged marriage, which is handled beautifully. The banter between the two main characters was an absolute delight to read and although the story moves slowly, the political intrigue keeps the book engaging. Le Veque makes the reader giggle with delight at times and grieve with the characters when sadness prevails. This is a beautiful novel with complex characters and an enchanting romance; the editing throughout is flawless. Readers who adore medieval England and epic love stories will enjoy this book, especially lovers of tales about arranged marriages. I loved Master of the Dawn and highly recommend it.
Master of the Dawn is the fifth book in the De Rayne Domination series by Kathryn Le Veque. The book is set in medieval England, filled with castles, knights, and politics. Lorica de la Beauvriere does not wish to see Sir Galen Burleson; he is rude, arrogant, and full of himself. However, Sir Galen is smitten by Lady Lorica of St. Nicholas Court, who is angelic and brilliant but has too many suitors. When Galen and Lorica find themselves bound in marriage, they cannot ignore the sparks that fly between them, but dark secrets from the past haunt them. Will their love conquer the world, or consume them?
Master of the Dawn is a delectable romance in a historical setting. The reader is transported to a world of flowing dresses and looming castles. The plot is not very complex and is driven mainly by the characters, from Galen and Lorica through to the supporting cast, and all are delightfully portrayed. I especially enjoy the bonding of Galen with the Rayne brothers. The romance is gentle and charming, with a tinge of spice, particularly within the arranged marriage, which is handled beautifully. The banter between the two main characters was an absolute delight to read and although the story moves slowly, the political intrigue keeps the book engaging. Le Veque makes the reader giggle with delight at times and grieve with the characters when sadness prevails. This is a beautiful novel with complex characters and an enchanting romance; the editing throughout is flawless. Readers who adore medieval England and epic love stories will enjoy this book, especially lovers of tales about arranged marriages. I loved Master of the Dawn and highly recommend it.
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