TBR Challenge: Julie Anne Long - The Legend of Lyon Redmond

Bound by centuries of bad blood, England's two most powerful families maintain a veneer of civility...until the heir to the staggering Redmond fortune disappears, reviving rumors of an ancient curse: a Redmond and an Eversea are destined to fall disastrously in love once per generation.
Rumor has it she broke Lyon Redmond's heart. But while many a man has since wooed the dazzling Olivia Eversea, none has ever won her—which is why jaws drop when she suddenly accepts a viscount's proposal. Now London waits with bated breath for the wedding of a decade . . . and wagers on the return of an heir.
It was instant and irresistible, forbidden . . . and unforgettable. And Lyon—now a driven, dangerous, infinitely devastating man—decides it's time for a reckoning. As the day of her wedding races toward them, Lyon and Olivia will decide whether their love is a curse destined to tear their families apart...or the stuff of which legends are made.

Comment: This is the last installment in the successful Pennyroyal Green series by author Julie Anne Long. After ten books wondering what had happened to Lyon Redmond and whether he would find his HEA with Olivia Eversea, finally their story was told and we could find out if they belong together or not.

I picked this one for the Hype theme of November because I'm sure many readers were more than eager to read this book. I was actually eagerly awaiting its release.

 

This book features the ultimate mystery of the series, did Lyon Redmond really disappeared because Olivia, the woman he loved, broke his heart? Olivia and Lyon are the oldest of both their parents and their families have had this feud of common hate between them and it's told a couple would fall in love in each generation but never be happy. In this series we've been trying to see if the same would happen to these two and it appeared so when Olivia finally accepted to marry someone else. But is their story at its end? Can Lyon and Olivia talk and settle their issues? Is there a happy future for them?

 

Although the author didn't make this the key point of all the books, I have to say it was quite ingenious of her to insert little scenes or little details here and there through the past 10 books in a way that we wouldn't forget about Olivia and Lyon. Sure, in one or two books that subject was more prominent than in the majority of them, but it was never a focus point. Still, at the back of our minds, it was there. I think it was quite clever, subtle, but a well placed strategy to make the mystery be something we would look forward to know more about.

 

We arrive at this book with many HEAs behind, many characters already happy and with amazing lives and loves, but the couple never forgotten could finally have their story.

Olivia has been described as someone difficult to approach, she now has a fiancé because she gave up on waiting. At least it looked so. Clever author making a path clear for her to do so.

Lyon seemed a ghost, rarely were his appearances, but did he really stay away from what was happening? Does he have a plan we didn't know about?

 

In general, I liked this story but I have two issues with this book.

The first thing was the type of plot. Of course this is a lovers reunited. One of the plots I hate the most. I confess some of the scenes of how things used to be between them bored me, even if I recognize how important they are so we can really know what happened. But I wanted more of them now, and not as much of what was. I'm glad we got that too and, of course, the scenes from the past are a handy bridge not only to understand things but to make it look like not too much time has passed. But personally, I can't get away from the fact I had to read about the before knowing something would go wrong. This is an historical so there is a lot of intimacy and elements they didn't share which made this look better for me. But as a whole it's still annoying, even if necessary for their romance.

The second thing I got annoyed at was the epilogue. I appreciate the idea of knowing what happened in the future but not like this! I mean, why? I would have preferred a thousand times more a regular epilogue with all of them maybe 10 years into the future and seeing them well, with their families. That would have warmed up my heart and my romantic side! Not the epilogue we had which is cute but not what I wanted, no.

 

Someone mentioned on GR this was the book the author should write. In a way I agree because we do see Lyon and Olivia together, dealing with things, in a stage in their lives where, maybe, they did gain from a separation, from a time where they weren't ready to acknowledge their feelings. It hurt but now they can try. But Olivia is engaged, who will she choose? We have a pretty good idea obviously, but I liked how there's this side of uncertainty until the end. Still, not all is bad if one pays attention to details. The author is wonderful with those, I admit it.

 

The characters are a huge part of things. Lyon was adventurous and mysterious but I liked seeing his softer, more family man side. I like the lesson he's supposed to teach but I feel sad at the same time he had to be away to become the person he had to. I'm glad he found happiness.

Olivia we've saw more of through the books, I confess there was a point where I thought she wasn't who she should but...everyone has weaker moments, doubt moments. We learn and we live with our decisions, so...

The solution of some situations was intriguing because of character's personalities. That affected some things and the "hows" of it. There's a certain bittersweet feel to some aspects because people aren't all the same, because we make choices, we follow some things and not others. I think it's amazing how the author makes her point with seemingly easy and hidden details. She does write beautifully.

 

In the end, this was the perfect end for the series. I liked knowing about the characters and their obstacles towards happiness. I cried here and there over some things. I really thought this was on the way to be close to perfect (except for the lovers reunited elements) but then the epilogue brought this down. Still, a well thought and structured series, wonderfully written by the author and presented in a way where a fan can read and re-read without thinking this would end in disgrace. I liked it and will cherish the good parts forever, that I will.

Grade: 7/10

Julie Anne Long - It Started With a Scandal

Lord Philippe Lavay once took to the high seas armed with charm as lethal as his sword and a stone-cold conviction: he'll restore his family's fortune and honor, no matter the cost. Victory is at last within reach--when a brutal attack snatches it from his grasp and lands him in Pennyroyal Green.
An afternoon of bliss brings a cascade of consequences for Elise Fountain. Shunned by her family and ousted from a job she loves, survival means a plummet down the social ladder to a position no woman has yet been able to keep: housekeeper to a frighteningly formidable prince.
The bold and gentle Elise sees past his battered body into Philippe's barricaded heart...and her innate sensuality ignites his blood. Now a man who thought he could never love and a woman who thought she would never again trust must fight an incendiary passion that could be the ruin of them both.

Comment: Here's one of the remaining installments in the amazing Pennyroyal Green series by Julie Anne Long. This has been one of the historical series I've enjoyed the most in the recent times, even despite the stories I've liked the least. After this book, there's only one left and I'm curious about it, as I'm sure many readers have been. As for this one, I've heard good things about it, so...

 

This is the 10th installment of the series and presents us Elise Fountain, a former teacher at Miss Endicott's School  - an establishment familiar to the reader - and how she's applying to be the housekeeper in the house Lord Philippe Lavay is occupying now. Elise knows she has to keep things under control because she needs to take care of her son, because no one else will help her.

Lord Philippe is a man recovering from an ambush, dealing with problems about his lost estate in France, the need to marry a heiress and the worry about his sister and grandfather. Living in Pennyroyal Green, where his friend Earl of Ardmay now resides, Philippe wants to get back on his feet but time is not on his side. The new housekeeper, however, seems to understand his needs and how much he misses home...

 

I liked this book. After the ones I preferred, this is one of the best. I think the relationship between Phillipe and Elise is perfect and the final scenes before the epilogue are wonderfully romantic.

I keep thinking this author knows what she's thinking when she writes because her words make sense, her characters feel like real people with credible thoughts and ideas. It would be great if everyone behaved like the heroes and heroines of her books when it comes to be in love with someone, but every love story in books must have an almost fantasy-like environment to it...

 

The story is easy to read, engrossing and I kept turning the pages because I really liked what I was reading about. Elise has had a challenging life, especially after she makes a mistake. The fact she loves her son isn't enough though, to feed and clothe him, so when she is let go of her position as a teacher, only a favor gets her the opportunity to apply for a job at Philippe's house. I thought she would feel more angry about everything but deep down, Elise is very practical and I liked that about her. She still dreams, but she faces life now with a sense of practicality I envy, she seems centered in her goals and the need to be there for her son. It was fun to see her interact with Philippe at first and how they started to fall in love...

Philippe isn't a blood relative to anyone we've met before, he's only friends with some characters but I was as interested in him as I was in others. In fact, more so than with a couple of past heroes. I felt his sense of loss, his regret he couldn't change his status and the lack of possibilities to get his estates back or the inheritance he used to have. I'm glad he could find friends and love because that eased up his worries. I think the emotional and personal issues he had - and Elise too - were well presented, developed and included in the story line.

 

The romance was sweet because it didn't start as an insta-love, so they had to create a sort of rapport before acknowledging their feelings. I liked the path they took towards love. I also liked how they addressed their problems and fears and how much that revealed their character. It felt believable they were falling in love and they were special people to one another. The HEA was amazing and I even liked how Philippe took the notion of Elise being a mother and well he got along with her son.

 

I always feel amazed by how warm it makes me feel when the heroes defend the heroines in the right times against bad/jealous/sad people who try to attack them or bring them down. It was wonderful to see Philippe do that and sticking up to Elise and how much she meant to him. It does make me want to sigh happily.

 

All in all, a great romance. Not perfect because I'd change some details in their courtship. Not that they were bad, but done differently it might make the book feel even more emotional and perfect for my tastes. But I consider this book positive and good.

Grade: 8/10

Julie Anne Long - Between the Devil and Ian Eversea

The moment orphaned American heiress Titania “Tansy” Danforth arrives on English shores she cuts a swath through Sussex, enslaving hearts and stealing beaux. She knows she's destined for a spectacular titled marriage—but the only man who fascinates her couldn't be more infamous...or less interested.
A hardened veteran of war, inveterate rogue Ian Eversea keeps women enthralled, his heart guarded and his options open: why should he succumb to the shackles of marriage when devastating good looks and Eversea charm make seduction so easy?
When Ian is forced to call her on her game, he never dreams the unmasked Tansy—vulnerable, brave, achingly sensual—will tempt him beyond endurance. And fight as he will, this notorious bachelor who stood down enemies on a battlefield might finally surrender his heart...and be brought to his knees by love.

Comment: This is the 9th installment in the Pennyroyal Green series by author Julie Anne Long. As I keep repeating over and over, I've enjoyed all books so far by the author, all titles in this series included.

Therefore, I was very confident this story would also be amazing, and I was curious about Ian and how his HEA would finally happen, after so many adventures!

In the end, though, I have to acknowledge that every author has weaker books and this, for me, has to be one of ms Long's ones...

 

The book begins with the reader getting to know miss Danforth, an American heiress now the ward of the duke of Falconbridge (book #5) and it's his job to take care of and find a suitable husband for her. Tansy Danforth seems to be a wonderful girl, very angelic and she could the belle of the season. She knows she is destined to marry well but that doesn't avoid her from being attracted to Ian even though she doesn't like him much.

Ian also doesn't like her much, he sees right through her act of humility and modesty and fears she might put in jeopardy the happiness of his sister Olivia. But after a scaring event, they start to bond and fall in love...

 

Oh yes, I was disappointed. I'll explain why and I still wonder why the author had to chose this path for Ian... I don't agree with the heroine for him and imagined someone completely different for him...

 

The thing is, after a relatively long series where characters show up and we know things about them it's expected their stories have to be interesting and likable. Knowing Ian is a sort of rake without much care unless it's about his family, I was hoping his story to be amazing and special and that his heroine would be someone that could challenge but steady him. I didn't see that happen, no matter how the story ended.

 

I understand the author is queen of all decisions and I think I follow her idea about this romance - especially the connection to Falconbridge - but I hoped for more from an author that ahs been perfect in my eyes and that has delivered wonderfully magical but balanced stories. So many people liked this so, as always, it's a matter of personal opinion, but I sincerely had hoped for better.

 

My problem was with the heroine and the relationship between her and Ian.

I mean, it's great he changed his ways at the end of the book but I don't feel he really thought about changing, it just was something that suited the plot. That kind of felt wrong to me, his personality and behavior wasn't exactly justified but I let it pass because the other things were worse, I think.

 

I disliked Tansy for the most part and that ruined my enjoyment of the book and my expectations about how it should end. I really wanted someone different for Ian. Tansy is immature, conceited and fake. She might have sadness and regrets and sorrow in her past - almost all heroines/heroes do - but I didn't like her personality or the fact the act she put to impress others was such a part of her, that the distinction between what she wanted others to see and who she was seemed inconsequential.

She acted angelic and perfect and innocent but she knew how her behavior influenced others and the impact in had in men, especially. She had a goal, she wanted others to think her innocent but she liked to flirt and to tease. I don't think this is a type or person I'd like to meet or be friends with and I had a hard time reading about her. I guess I wanted her to have a softer or more practical hidden side and not a capricious or selfish one.

In the end she looks redeemed, she wants happiness and love but I never thought she should have it with Ian, you know? Even more so because they disliked each other and the jump to love was unbelievable and meaningless.

 

The romance between the main couple was really strange, from one opposite to another so quickly without a believable connection and there to justify a HEA in the end. I really thought this was weak and avoidable. It was hard to swallow they end up together because neither seemed to have learned anything from being together and also what improved them by being together. I really can't imagine their life as a steady couple even if I see it in the next books, at least not the way I always envisioned the other couples after their book was done.

 

Anyway, all authors have books we prefer less, I think this must be it for me when it comes to this series. the author's style and trademark writing are there but...this wasn't very good for me, I'm afraid.

Grade: 5/10

Julie Anne Long - It Happened One Midnight

More than one beautiful woman’s hopes have been dashed on the rocky shoals of Jonathan Redmond’s heart. With his riveting good looks and Redmond wealth and power, the world is his oyster—until an ultimatum from his father and a chilling gypsy prophesy send him hurtling headlong toward a fate he’ll do anything to avoid: matrimony.
Intoxicating, elusive Thomasina de Ballesteros has the bloods of London at her feet. But none of them knows the real Tommy—the one with a shocking pedigree, a few too many secrets, and a healthy scorn for rakes like Jonathan.
She is everything Jonathan never wanted. But on one fateful midnight, he’s drawn into Tommy's world of risk, danger…and a desire he’d never dreamed possible. And suddenly he’s re-thinking everything...including the possibility that succumbing to prophesy might just mean surrendering to love.

Comment: This the 8th story in the PennyRoyal Green series and once again, I was marveled by how amazing it was. Since the second book, which has been my absolute favorite so far (it still is), I was looking for another installment that could captivate me as easily and this one managed to do it.

 

This is the story of Jonathan Redmond, the youngest Redmond sibling. He has been living with the curse of the gipsy's prediction he would father tem children but Jonathan doesn't feel such a thing could happen to him. He wants to prove to his father instead that he is able to live on his own, to become rich with his own investments and intelligence.

Thomasina de Ballesteros is a young woman whose reputation makes her one of the most sought women of the entertaining scene in London. However, Thomasine hides a secret agenda and she has one goal, to help as much children as she can from abuse and practically slavery at the hands of their "employers".

When these two meet one midnight, it seems only a battle of wits could happen but the more they know each other, the more in common they find...

 

I did love this story, it's wonderfully presented and to be honest, I devoured it. I couldn't put it down and I've taken probably less than 24h to read it, even if not in a continuous time. I enjoyed reading this story and sometimes that experience is so much more worthy than books we read but can't say we enjoyed. There's a lot to be told about entertaining...

 

As always, the story itself was quite amazing and I had a great time reading about Jonathan's and Thomasina's battles in their respective goals.

Jonathan seemed a very put together person, slightly different from the young man we've met in the first books. Of course, the focus being on and about him helps us in seeing him as someone more like a grown up, but I liked the type of person he is, I liked seeing his personality and how he thought for himself and how brave and decent he acted on behalf of those below him in society but who are still human beings. I do love when the heroes act like decent people.

Thomasina is someone who gets misunderstood for sure, but I think her practical moves and actions have a good reason of being and I especially liked how her act in society didn't make her someone feisty and exaggerated. It was good to see how caring and worried she was about others.

 

The main romance felt very easy but strong. The author did it and made it look like they had to be destined for one another but not to the point where it was inevitable. They simply fit together. I liked how each moment between them didn't seem rushed or handy, I particularly liked how they fell in love and how important they became to each other.

The plot isn't over the top, I liked the subjects dealt with in it, Jonathan's need to prove to his father he could make his own living, Thomasina's need to help others, the whole works of a society that seems to prefer a certain status quo but overlooks reality.

I especially loved the end where Jonathan tells some truths to his father and how the epilogue shows us a scene where we hope for what is to come in the final three books.

The second book remains my favorite though. Somehow that other story felt more passionate in a way.

 

In a book where we got to know and like the protagonists, care about other beloved charters and wish for good things to happen, the HEA does let us see how perfect a story can be told simply but well.

Grade: 9/10

Julie Anne Long - A Notorious Countess Confesses

From Covent Garden to courtesan to countess, beautiful, fearless, shamelessly ambitious Evie Duggan has riveted London in every role she plays. But the ton never could forgive her scandalous—if shockingly short—marriage, and when her star plummets amid gleefully vicious gossip, the countess escapes to the only legacy left to her: a manor house in Pennyroyal Green.
He has the face of a fallen angel and a smolder the devil would envy, but Vicar Adam Sylvaine walks a precarious line: resisting temptation…and the wild Eversea blood in his veins. Adam’s strength is tested when scandal, aka the countess, moves to Sussex. But when a woman who fiercely guards her heart and a man entrusted with the souls of an entire town surrender to a forbidden desire, will the sweetest sin lead them to Heaven...or make outcasts of them forever?

Comment: This is the 7th installment in the Pennyroyal Green series by Julie Anne Long. A it became obvious to anyone who follows my humble blog, I'm a fan of the author by now. The second book in particular was amazing. The ones after have been good but not quite there. Until this one.

In this new title, we have reverend Adam Sylvaine's story. He's the nephew of Jacob Eversea and was granted the vicarage in Pennyroyal Green. Most residents have learned to love him, not only because of his warm and caring nature but also because of his gorgeous face.In fact, most ladies will like nothing better than to marry the reverend but he seems indifferent to all...

The countess Evie Duggan inherited a house in Pennyroyal Green after the death of her husband but the main reason she actually traveled there is because her presence in London seemed to have reached its end in society. Her life isn't as glamorous as other may thing, though and Evie wants friends. Asking the reverend's help is one thing but to fall for him is another...

I'm going to say it right now: this book is very good and will have the same grade as my favorite of the series but it has a few less perfect details. Meaning, I liked it a lot but the other is still better.

The best compliment one can give to this author and this series is how each story is so different from the previous one but the community we see, weather focused on the Everseas or the Redmonds is still there, still a comfortable part of the setting background and it's always so good to read a romance between two characters that aren't islands, that are isolated from everyone or worse! that only interact with cliché characters.

Anyway, thankfully, this installment proves as good as the others in terms of romance development. I think there's a certain treatment by the author on how to present a couple's potential and how to best enhance the beauty of a relationship between them that not many have. The way the couple falls in love isn't too quick or void, we have the privilege to understand what the characters are thinking and feeling even when they don't speak about it or even if they don't act accordingly to those feelings. The author has a talent to portray this in her novels and in this title's case, it seemed it was even better, I don't know if based on the character's personality or the whole environment, but it did work.

I liked Adam and Evie together. Adam's past we sort of glimpse more than get actual scenes, but we o get an impression of how he grew up and how he is beautiful inside and out. He's not perfect but I found his character to be noble and truthful. I wanted him to be happy.

Evie is more complex. I also took more to like her despite the good deeds she does and the more than justified reasons for things I wish she hadn't done. It's not that I wanted her to be more "pure" for him in terms of social behavior and personal choices (although that would be better for my personal taste), but I felt she had reached a point where her attitudes would be hard to change, even if - reasonably - she didn't have to so she could match his own gentler and lighter burdened heart.

I get the whys and hows of what made them different and then a sort of complement. I think the only way this would be absolute perfection would be for her past to be shady for a reason I might prefer.

Their romance is unique and not without its setbacks and human reactions to usual human things. All normal but used in the right amount and without exaggerations. The secondary characters provided help enough and had presence enough to support what was happening in a believable way without being "more" than the main romance taking place.

The end was very romantic and sweet and I did spend some time imagining if they were real how their life would be like and so on...

In the end, a very good romance once more, especially a main hero that I really liked and wanted to see happy. 

I do hope the other titles keep surprising me for their consistency.

As for this one, recommended.

Grade: 9/10

Julie Anne Long - How the Marquess was Won

The Scandal Sheets call him Lord Ice.
Ruthless, cold, precise, Julian Spenser, Marquess Dryden, tolerates only the finest-- in clothes, in horseflesh, in mistresses. And now he's found the perfect bride, the one whose dowry will restore his family's shattered legacy and bring him peace at last: the exquisite heiress Lisbeth Redmond.
She's about to play with fire...
But one unforgettable encounter with Lisbeth's paid companion, Phoebe Vale, and the Marquess is undone. This quiet girl with the wicked smile and a wit to match is the first person to see through the icy facade to the fiery man beneath. But their irresistible attraction is a torment as sweet as it is dangerous, for surrendering to their desire could mean losing everything else they ever wanted. 

Comment: This is the 6th installment in the wonderful Pennyroyal Green series by Julie Anne Long and it was the one scheduled for May. I had god expectations of it since I realized the heroine wouldn't be a titled lady or something. I was very curious in seeing how the pair would work together.

This is the story of the Julian, Marquess of Dryden, a man re-known by it's cold demeanor and pragmatism. He's achieved everything he wanted since his father let the family's finances go to waste because he never cared for them. Now, the only thing missing is an estate from his mother's side he wishes to get back. But that is in the power of Isaiah Redmond and his only way of getting it is by marrying Lisbeth, the older man's niece. However, before starting his courting, Julian meets Phoebe Vale, a schoolteacher that doesn't seem shy around him, something he finds refreshing.

Phoebe knows there isn't much she can do. She wants to have an adventure so she thinks about going to Africa to teach, but before she even makes that decision she meets Julian, everything she can't have and is asked to be Lisbeth's company during the time they'll be at Redmond's house. Phoebe tries, but the marquess isn't just a title and sparks fly between them...

Once again, I really couldn't put down a story by this author. I think she going to be one of my favorites in the genre.

This book features one of my favorite types of heroine, someone poor but with a simple confident and dreams even if she knows she won't ever be more than what she is. I liked the mix of resignation and confidence in her. I feel very empathy towards her although she does a lot more bravery than I could ever have by accepting Lisbeth's invitation to be with her during the house party and, later on to be in London during the season. 

Of course without this, there wouldn't be a story... but still, I have to say what made me like Phoebe also made me a bit angry because I thought she would be smarter to avoid certain things. In a way I think the author was quite successful in creating a character that is simple but dreams too high and isn't aware of how close to disgrace she is flying.

Despite this, what surrounded Phoebe's travel to London and her subsequent behavior was certainly not as unlikely as one might think in those times where most women had no rights, no importance and no voice if they weren't ladies or belonged to good families.

Julian is a much more easier character to understand I think. Deep down he has honor and is in control of his feelings. The challenges he faces, namely trying to make others see he's serious and not like his father, are all worthy and his ultimate behavior never made me think he wouldn't. Sure, I had a reader's privilege to see him but even to other characters, I think he was always someone they wanted to emulate because of his attitude. Although one could also say that would happen due to his personality that no one seemed to unravel. Until Phoebe challenged him and made him realize he didn't have to just let life follow what society wanted. I liked him and how he took so many steps to be someone Phoebe could trust.

Yes he said some things I totally understand why they made Phoebe disappointed, but if there were no conflicts what would be the point?

These books focus mainly on the character's journey towards love and a HEA. All the secondary characters and situations are a complement to it but, interestingly, that doesn't remove any balance from the story and it's always fun to see how the books feel populated and full of energy even when the scenes are set on the main couple.

Another amazing detail, in my opinion, is how the author hits the precise emotions and awareness of each character in the scenes they are in. This author's characters aren't stupid or aloof or distracted or inattentive. They always act with purpose, with meaning, even if funny or peaceful moments. All their reactions are thoughtful and cleverly used by the author. I like this sense of utility they all have.

I really have a wonderful time with a book by this author. I kept being surprised by how much I like to see and follow each protagonist path towards happiness and something. In the end I always think that yes, these two complement each other and their actions have meaning and are more than just a puppet doing what the author tells them to. It's a curious feeling but it happens every time.

I'm very eager to get to the next one and I hope it's as fascinating, entertaining, well thought and put together as this one. I don't think it's perfect because Phoebe could have a few details more according to my own personal taste and the scenes between them could have been even more powerfully shown, but all in all, another great story!

Grade: 8/10

Julie Anne Long - What I Did for a Duke

For years, he's been an object of fear, fascination . . . and fantasy. But of all the wicked rumors that shadow the formidable Alexander Moncrieffe, Duke of Falconbridge, the ton knows one thing for certain: only fools dare cross him. And when Ian Eversea does just that, Moncrieffe knows the perfect revenge: he'll seduce Ian's innocent sister, Genevieve—the only Eversea as yet untouched by scandal. First he'll capture her heart . . . and then he'll break it.
But everything about Genevieve is unexpected: the passion simmering beneath her cool control, the sharp wit tempered by gentleness . . . And though Genevieve has heard the whispers about the duke's dark past, and knows she trifles with him at her peril, one incendiary kiss tempts her deeper into a world of extraordinary sensuality. Until Genevieve is faced with a fateful choice . . . is there anything she won't do for a duke?

Comment: This is the 5th book in the Pennyroyal Green series by Julie Anne Long. The second book is one of my favorite historical stories ever and I like the author's style a lot so I'm reading this series and hopefully another perfect book will come along.

This is the story of Genevieve Eversea, the youngest of the Eversea siblings. She's the one that hasn't got into any scandal nor has she been the talk of the ton.

After catching Ian Eversea in the wrong place with the wrong person, the duke of Falconbridge thinks of Genevieve as the perfect means to get his revenge.

While getting to know each other, the duke and Genevieve share thoughts, learn things and the duke teaches Genevieve some truths about herself. But in the end will she take what she's learned to be happy?

What I like the best about these books is the author's writing style in which we get to know some character's thoughts and ways of acting but not in a boring or annoying way. It seems the way she writes makes it all seem so easy and just perfect, especially when the characters are interacting and they think things to themselves and we, readers, are the only ones who see. It might sound usual but the way ms Long does it gives it another feel.

One of the little things that I really appreciated is when Genevieve says why some people think only themselves are clever, and honestly isn't that true, don't we often believe we are the only ones who see things the right angle, the right way, the right cleverness? Who knows how the other person's mind works! How interesting to see a character say it like it is.

I think this story was well thought and very interesting in the psychological development f the main couple. Both had pre-conceived ideas about the other one but they learned together what it meant to go from reluctant conversation partners to friends to lovers. The duke had and agenda but while he attempted to teach Genevieve a lesson, he was caught learning something too and the biggest thing to know is love gets you unaware and when you don't want it. Their romance was sweet and powerful and special.

Overall, I liked the story. But I still think the way Genevieve finally accepted reality seemed weaker than it should, after all she was talking to someone and that convinced her of her feelings to the duke but I don't think her thoughts or the explanation which we had about how she was clueless about it for so long were told the better way. I think it wasn't always obvious as I think it could have been.

The duke also seemed to go from "am I in love" to "love slave" too fast and the it felt like one step or two were missing from those two stations.

I liked how both the duke and Genevieve were together, both their conversation scenes and the intimate ones. I think their personalities seemed to be simple or should I say, goal oriented to a certain path but as the story developed we got to learn a lot about them, their pasts and the things that molded who they both are now. This is labeled May/December but the story is so engrossed, apart from the actual references to it, I never felt the age difference between them. I like how they look together, how they are together.

All in all, this is a great new installment. Still not perfect considering my own personal tastes and the fact I can't help but compare them all to my favorite 2nd book, but I really liked their romance story and they are still with me since I've finished which is always a good thing.

Grade: 8/10

Julie Anne Long - I Kissed an Earl

Violet Redmond's family and fortune might be formidable and her beauty and wit matchless—but her infamous flare for mischief keeps all but the most lionhearted suitors at bay. Only Violet knows what will assuage her restlessness: a man who doesn't bore her to tears, and a clue to the fate of her missing brother. She never dreamed she'd find both with a man whose own pedigree is far from impeccable.
"Savage" is what the women of the ton whisper about the newly styled Earl of Ardmay—albeit with shivers of pleasure. Born an English bastard, raised on the high seas, he's on a mission to capture a notorious pirate for vengeance. But while Violet's belief in her brother's innocence maddens him, her courage awes him . . . and her sensuality finally undoes him. Now the man who once lost everything and the girl who has everything to lose are bound by a passion that could either end in betrayal . . . or become everything they ever dreamed.

Comment: This is the fourth installment in the Pennyroyal Green series by Julie Anne Long. The books feature the enemy families of Everseas and Redmonds and each book alternates a family member from one side to one of the other.

In this book we have Violet Redmond's story. She's the most reckless and unpredictable of the Redmonds because she knows who she is and her position among the society and she never backs away from a challenge or the need to have her way. The only thing that didn't go so well was her brother Lyon's disappearance which she took hard because he's family.

Asher Flint is a new earl who's been a sea captain for many years, since he was a boy. Being a bastard only because of his work for the king is he allowed to have a title but he sees his life as oriented. His only trouble is the pirate who killed his old friend and mentor and he plans on catching him.

Flint and Violet know each other and after a coincidence that makes Violet take a risk on Flint's ship, could those two give in to love?

I had good expectations about this book. So far all the books in this series have been quite amazing, one of them even reached perfection for me.

This story features Violet, she's one of those smart, almost sly characters, someone that in flesh and bone would certainly annoy many people because at the beginning of the story she seemed quite mean and without care about anything besides herself and her family. Caring about her missing brother is actually the first clue she's not as odious as one might think, however, the author did a good job in developing her into someone I liked and enjoyed knowing. 

I think is mandatory that we readers must care about the characters. I don't mind not caring what happens to a character exactly in terms of plot, but I must feel some empathy towards her and being invested in how it all ends and if the path was worth it. This especially in romances. 

So, I was concerned at first Violet would end up being a snotty person that would only have an HEA because it had to be, not because she would be worthy of it. I shouldn't have lost faith in ms Long, but my caring for Violet took some time.

I' m not particular fond of stories et in ships but I do have to confess some of my favorite stories - not all romances - that take place on ships were totally worth the effort. Of course things aren't as detailed as that, the presence of description and scenes set on it are usually to empower the environment surrounding the action, but I thought it was quite credible what we see and most important of all, the ship scenes had a purpose. Very well done indeed.

Asher Flint is quite mysterious at first even when we know his intentions for the future. His interactions with Violet escalate and the love between them took time but was very believable, it really seemed their relationship developed and escalated with each conversation, every meeting. I think the author did a good job in putting them on opposite sides when it came to business and so close and falling for each other personally.

The story has many references to other characters. It's not mandatory to have read the previous books to get this one, but it certainly makes it much more enjoyable.

We get to know more about the long lived mystery of Violet's brother and why he went missing and we even see some interactions between Violet and her other siblings, being them in presence or spoken for.

The action comes to a dilemma at some point. I was glad to see justice doesn't always have to met in hand and that love is indeed stronger than any revenge. What a beautiful message to pass forward.

I liked this book for the most part, but the beginning wasn't as great when I thought Violet wouldn't be the type of heroine I can stand. The pace also seemed not so well here in there. I guess this needs to be so, because things take time to be explained and developed, but still... nevertheless, the good parts surpassed he weaker ones a lot, thus the positive grade.

I'm taking next month off, but I'm still very much eager to keep reading this series and Genevieve Eversea is next. Can't wait.

Grade: 8/10

Julie Anne Long - Since the Surrender

Fearless. Loyal. Brilliant. Ruthless. Bold words are always used to describe English war hero Captain Chase Eversea, but another word unfortunately plays a role in every Eversea's destiny: trouble. And trouble for Chase arrives in the form of a mysterious message summoning him to a London rendezvous . . . where he encounters the memory of his most wicked indiscretion in the flesh: Rosalind March—the only woman he could never forget.
Five years ago, the reckless, charming beauty craved the formidable Captain's attention. But now Rosalind is a coolly self-possessed woman, and desire is the last thing on her mind: her sister has mysteriously disappeared and she needs Chase's help to find her. But as their search through London's darkest corners re-ignites long-smoldering passion and memories of old battles, Chase and Rosalind are challenged to surrender: to the depths of a wicked desire, and to the possibility of love. 

Comment: This is the third book of the Pennyroyal Green series by the author. I liked the previous two stories and the second one was my favorite historical of last year. I was busy collecting all the books to read in order and in following months and that is why it took me so long  since I've read books in this series. But I'm very eager to keep up the series.

This is Chase Eversea's story and how he is planning on going to India, to work there as he thinks there's nothing left in England for someone like him. But days before he leaves he gets a note asking his presence in a strange museum. He meets Rosalind, the wife of a former superior of his and someone he fell for years ago. Although nothing physical happened between them, the attraction and desire were there.

Rosalind only wants to find her sister and she fears something bad happened to her. Asking Chase's help is a last resort but she is trusting his character and loyalty will help her. The attraction is still there tough and this time Rosalind isn't married anymore...

I liked this story. Not as much as the one before, but it was interesting and easier to read than I expected. 

The thing is, I've read some things, not complete reviews, but comments here and there about this book and most of them weren't praising. The fact they knew each other before put me off a bit because I usually don't like this type of plots. Some readers talked about cheating, which isn't something I like either. But each reader's perception is different, we can all read the same thing and see different things. I don't think there is any cheating on this book, not as the main couple is concerned. Sure they felt attracted while she was married but apart from recognizing it, they never had sex or acted on their attraction to a point where I'd consider them cheaters. In fact, their moral conduit was quite high and unmovable. The explanation of this part of the novel was well done, I think.

The plot follows the main couple, while they wonder if they should follow their connection now that they're both free of the things that kept them apart in the past, looking for Rosalind's sister. She is missing from prison as are other young women, with no apparent explanation as to why that happened. 

The plot was quite fascinating, full of intriguing details and curious clues. There's a purpose to all this and it was disturbing, in my opinion, not for the reason why, but because of the weirdness of the how's. It took a lot of imagination to bring all the pieces together in a way that can be seen as believable. The workings of the whole thing I mean, not just the plot itself. I was quite surprised by it.

The romance was simple and full of secret meanings. I wasn't overjoyed with it, but it was good to spend time reading about. I think their best asset was their character and that was strong so...and the scenes with them, although sometimes unsuitable for the time they took place, were still hot and offered a glimpse of their feelings and for how long they waited.

I think the family connections are to be recommendable in this series and in this book that didn't show off as much. But it was there in the background, so not all is bad.

All in all, a good installment. I still have hopes for some titles but in general, what I wait is for good enjoyable books to make me feel the love between family members and their relationships. I think this is being accomplished.

Grade: 8/10

Julie Anne Long - To Love a Thief

Ensnared!
Lily Masters has a gift for picking pockets and telling stories—skills that come in handy for surviving London's slums. She's proud of providing for herself and her lively young sister, Alice, and she's never been caught. Well, there's always a first time.
Enticed!
Gideon Cole is a brilliant barrister with an unfortunate weakness for clients who can't pay. His latest charitable misstep: buying the freedom of a daring, beautiful thief. To repay the debt, Lily agrees to his proposition: pose as the object of his desire and help him snare a wealthy bride. All he has to do is transform the impudent Lily into a diamond of the first water.
Enthralled!
But the education of Lily could cost Gideon his carefully planned future. While she plays cards with his invalid uncle, and Alice charms the servants, the honorable Gideon is harboring less than honorable thoughts. For sweet, stubborn, and sensual Lily has a way of slipping past a gentleman's defenses—especially when she's stealing his heart.

Comment: Until this book I had read two other titles by the author and both were additive, one more than the other. As soon as I saw the blurb of this story I was immediately interested in reading it. I decided to read it this month to allow me to read the rest of the author series next year. This book was really special for me and a pleasure to read.

This is Lily and Gideon's story. They meet when Lily attempts to pickpocket Gideon's watch but she can't be successful. However, she is eventually caught and Gideon is close by to save her from prison by making her work for the price he paid to rescue her. She is supposed to play his new found love interest to make the women he really wants jealous. But while they play with others' perception, can they also fake what's happening between them?

I enjoyed this book a lot. It's actually one of the few I liked best so far, in the year. I really liked the story, the character's actions and how everything played out.

I think this author has a great talent to write about character's motivations. It seems nothing they do happens without a reason, without a conjunction of happenings. I like how sure I will be of a good character development from this author.

I think it's one of her best talents on writing, this ability to add layers and layers of emotional and thoughtful characterization to the main characters and make them realistic in their actions.

The plot is actually seen a lot on romance, the Pygmalion story and Lily is improved to be as haughty and fake as the woman Gideon thinks he wants. But as a true heroine, Lily has a much warmer and kinder nature and not even her training to be someone different make her change who she really is. She might have been a thief by necessity but she is kind and only wants to be there for her younger sister. She has a huge soul and she doesn't hide her true feelings, she's vibrant and compassionate. All in all, a real heroine.

Part of the conflict is how Lily actually falls in love with Gideon while helping him make another woman jealous. Of course we know Lily is the one he should like and Lily could use that in her favor but she keeps her honor and her character. I liked how honorable she was.

Gideon is a wonderful hero, he helps those in need even when that works against him, but he helps and he paid his father's debts and he also has honor. I really liked to see these two fall in love and try to just do what they agreed on while still wanting the other to be something more.

I liked the romance a lot and how everything payed out.

There are a lot of secondary characters and they do have a part in the story, they aren't there just to fill up space. So, my only little issue with this book is how the end wasn't explanatory enough for my taste, especially after such weight on the characters. I'd have liked to see what happens for real instead of just speculation based on things that happen.

I really had a great time reading this story. So far, this author seems to work out wonderfully for me and I can't wait to read more.

This book was a very romantic story and full of sweet and tender scenes that reaffirmed the notion a good romance can be special and great.

Grade: 9/10

Julie Anne Long - Like No Other Lover

Now or never...
It's the last chance for Cynthia Brightly, the ton's most bewitching belle. Driven out of London by a secret scandal, she must find a grand husband at the Redmonds' house party before word of her downfall spreads all over England. Unfortunately, someone at Pennyroyal Green is already privy to the whispers of broken engagements and dueling lovers: Miles Redmond, renowned explorer and thanks to his brother's disappearance, heir to the family's enormous fortune.
Miles set his sights on Cynthia once, at a time when the ambitious beauty thought herself too good for a second son. But now he's heir apparent, relishing his control. He strikes a bargain with her: he'll keep Cynthia's steamy secrets and help her find a husband among the guests n exchange for a single kiss.
What could be the harm in a simple kiss? Cynthia is about to discover that it's enough to unleash fierce passion and that Miles Redmond is most certainly like no other lover in the world.

Comment: This is the second installment on the PennyRoyal series by Julie Anne Long. This time the story focuses on the Redmonds, the enemy family of the Everseas we've met in the first book. I've had this book to read for months and was really eager to get to it.
The story presents us Cynthia Brightly, a young woman in her last resort. She needs to marry for a very simple reason, she's got no one and no money to rely on, so if she doesn't secure a husband in the Redmond's two weeks party, she will be penniless and alone.
Miles Redmond fell in love with Cynthia at first sight in a ball years ago. He heard her say she wouldn't settle for a second son (Mile's brother was the heir at the time) and Miles decided to forget about her. Now she's back in his house and no matter how much fun she is, he knows he has to marry someone else...or not?

I loved this romance! It has many elements I love in romances and a wonderful HEA to finish a superb plot in my opinion. I think this is one of those types of stories that make us believe in happiness and forever love. A really good love story, any romance addict will adore this one, I think.

What I loved best was Cynthia's character. She isn't the aloof belle everyone thought her to be. She was high on praise years before but some reckless, or should I say, irresponsible behavior reduce her chances to nothing. She regrets her past actions and knows she's at the end of her possibilities. Here's a heroine who doesn't have much, in fact she counts her money every night to show herself what will happen if she doesn't find a husband soon. She's practical, some might say a bit cynical too, but considering her position, she has to be. I confess I would have preferred her to show a bit more quietness, but her behavior is one of desperation, so I can't fault her to be abrasive or forwarded at times. The scenes where she shows her heart to Miles are very emotional and perfect. Here is a poor, desperate heroine trying to use her beauty, her only asset, to find security. She isn't after lots of money, power or richness as she might have in the past. She's at a point she'll settle for security and someone to look after her. She wants to forget about love, but while in the Redmond's house, she gets to know Miles and falls in love. How amazingly wonderful when she says she liked what he likes because it's a part of him, how could she not understand that? Ohhh, so romantic!

Miles is one of those smart heroes, who doesn't think much about himself, he loves etymology and after a conversation with his father, he decided to pursue a neighbor's daughter for a wedding with her would secure him funds for an expedition. But Cynthia shows up and he feels not only attracted to her, but in awe of her as well. Still, at first he thinks she's only a gold digger, sort of, but with time, his feelings change, even more so when he learns about her origins and her situation. He tries to help her find a good husband, but not always with the best results. He even tricks her at some point before learning of her money issues and after that his apology is so sincere, it's emotional.

Their relationship is wonderful to watch. In the end, Cynthia takes the course of honor and Miles has a decision to make too. I thought their paths were very similar and it only proved to me, they were wonderful as a couple. One thing bothered me in the end, it's understandable, but still. Otherwise this would have been the perfect romance.

I really recommend this one. It's a wonderful story about misunderstandings, mistakes and wrong impressions. It's a story about forgiveness and falling in love for the best reasons.
I loved it and recommend it!
Will get the next books in this series in the future for sure.
Grade: 9/10

Julie Anne Long - The Perils of Pleasure

Scandal has rocked the city of London. Colin Eversea, a handsome, reckless unapologetic rogue is sentenced to hang for murder and, inconveniently for him, the only witness to the crime disappears. Then again, throughout history, the Everseas have always managed to cheat fate in style: Colin is snatched from the gallows by a beautiful, clever mercenary. 
Cool-headed, daring Madeleine Greenway is immune to Colin's vaunted charm. Her mission is not to rescue Colin but to kidnap him, and to be paid handsomely for it. But when it becomes clear that whoever wants Colin alive wants Madeline dead, the two become uneasy allies in a deadly race for truth. Together, they'll face great danger--and a passion neither can resist.

Comment: I've had this book to read for several years...last time I've arranged my shelves I thought it would be a good idea to put this book on the list of things to read soon....(this was around February or so...), and voilá, I wrote down this title for this month and here it was its turn. I got this because I saw in a message board so many people saying good things about the series...I decided to get the first book and try.

This is the story of Colin Eversea. He's the youngest son in a big family and they have an enemy family living close by, in PennyRoyal Green. Colin has been accused of a crime and he is going to hung soon. In the morning of his hanging, he is rescued and later on he finds out his rescue is a woman.
Madeleine Greenway is a widow trying to win the remaining money she needs to travel to America and start her life again, after losses she can't bear to thin about. After she rescues Colin someone tries to kill her so she joins forces with Colin to find out who is behind this whole scheme. But during their adventures to look for the culprit, they talk and after all there is more they have in common than they imagined.

I liked the story. It was absorbing and interesting. I lid how the author inserted more serious subjects about the character's lives in an apparent unimportant manner, which made some passages very subtle. In fact, I was rather surprised about the writing style, because I had an idea it would be a lighter narrative and possibly not as centered in the main couple as it was. I expected the story to develop among Colin's family but they didn't have such a big part as that. 
I wonder if the narrative will change in the upcoming books, but as each book features someone from one of the main families alternatively, I suppose it won't be the case. In a way, I wish it wasn't so, because I'd like to see them interact a lot more. I don't tend to enjoy books where the main couple seems in a world apart from everyone else, even it it enhances their romance more. I like families and interactions and veracity to that family living because it's more common to believe in people who live close to a family than on their own. I don't now but it seems more interesting to set stories like that.

The characters, like I said, are very interesting. Colin believes himself to be in love with his brother's fiancée but is he? I thin it was quite surprising to find out at the same time as Colin himself. He finds out a great deal about himself while traveling with Madeleine to solve all the mess around him and the false accusation of murder. I liked how he saw Madeleine and how he started to see himself through her eyes and after all he feels he is someone worthy of consideration and true affection. He even finds out something I was curious to now how he would deal with but apparently it's to be developed in the future...or not, I'm not sure by the way it was done.
Madeleine on the other hand, made me sad. She has a lot to be sorry for and I felt sorry for her and for all the people who probably had a life very similar to hers in real life in those days. She suffered but she kept a practical take on life even when it was hard and it was no surprise to see Colin fall for her. I think she is the best character in the book, no doubt.

All in all, this was an almost perfect book. If it had more involvement between more characters Key to the plot, I think it would have been better. As far as this book goes, I was glad to have read it and I already ordered the next one, which I hope is as engaging.