The Quiet Gentleman / Review

Author: Georgette Heyer

Paperback: 368 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
(June 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402238835

Book Description:

Less than a hero's welcome...
Returning to his family seat from Waterloo, Gervase Frant, seventh Earl of St Erth, could have expected more enthusiasm for his homecoming. His quiet cousin, stepmother, and young half-brother seem openly disappointed that he survived the wars. And when he begins to fall for his half-brother's sweetheart, his chilly reception goes from unfriendly to positively murderous.

One of Heyer's most suspenseful Regency romances, The Quiet Gentleman combines an ingenious mystery plot with her signature witty style and effervescently engaging characters.

About the author:

Georgette Heyer wrote over fifty novels, including Regency romances, mysteries, and historical fiction. She was known as the Queen of Regency romance, and was legendary for her research, historical accuracy, and her extraordinary plots and characterizations.

My thoughts:
This is Georgette Heyer at her best! She fills the story with extraordinary characters, wonderful suspense, and all the great style of the Regency period. It seems to be well researched, which I believe Ms. Heyer is famous for, and is beautifully written. It is one of those classic books I want to keep and read again and again. I loved the quirky characters, the suspense, and the witty interaction. Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for my review copy.

Bath Tangle / Review

Author: Georgette Heyer
Paperback: 368 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Reprint edition (July 1, 2011)

Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402238797

Book Description:

A Delightful Tangle of Affairs...
The Earl of Spenborough had always been noted for his eccentricity. Leaving a widow younger than his own daughter Serena was one thing, but leaving his fortune to the trusteeship of the Marquis of Rotherham – the one man the same daughter had jilted – was quite another.

When Serena and her lovely young stepmother Fanny decide to move to Bath, Serena makes an odd new friend and discovers an old love. Before long, they're all entangled in a clutter of marriage and manners the likes of which even Regency Bath has rarely seen.

About the Author

The late Georgette Heyer was a very private woman. Her historical novels have charmed and delighted millions of readers for decades, though she rarely reached out to the public to discuss her works or personal life. She was born in Wimbledon in August 1902, and her first novel, The Black Moth, published when she was 19, was an instant success.

Heyer published 56 books over the next 53 years, until her death from lung cancer in 1974. Her work included Regency novels, mysteries and historical fiction. Known also as the Queen of Regency romance, Heyer was legendary for her research, historical accuracy and her extraordinary plots and characterizations. Her last book, My Lord John, was published posthumously in 1975. She was married to George Ronald Rougier, a barrister, and they had one son, Richard.

My thoughts:

This is the first book I've read by the famous Georgette Heyer and found it so much fun! I can understand why Ms. Heyer is one of the popular authors of Regency romances and historical fiction. She writes beautifully. Bath Tangle may not be her most successful novel, but it is certainly very enjoyable if you like memorable characters, witty interaction, and a fast read. Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for my review copy.

Kingdom of Summer

Author: Gillian Bradshaw
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
(September 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402240724

Book Description:

While defending Arthur's kingdom, the great warrior Gwalchmai commits a grave offense against the woman he loves. She disappears, and haunted by her memory, Gwalchmai travels to the most beautiful land of all as he searches for her. But an unexpected and malevolent force of evil and Darkness has taken root there...and it will be up to Gwalchmai once again to serve the Light.

In the second book of Gillian Bradshaw's critically acclaimed trilogy, Sir Gawain comes to life as Gwalchmai, startlingly human yet fantastically heroic.

My thoughts:

Bradshaw has written many best-sellers. "Kingdom of Summer", the 2nd book in Gillian Bradshaw's Arthurian trilogy is certainly one of the best. Continuing in the model of a Tolkien epic, the reader will find action, magic, and romance; characters that are well-defined and easy to relate to; and a story-line that is mystical. It was a joy to read. Thank you to SourceBooks Landmark for my review copy.

An Unlikely Suitor / Review

Author: Nancy Moser

Paperback: 394 pages

Publisher: Bethany House (May 1, 2011)

Language: English
ISBN-10: 0764207520

Book Description:

Lucy Scarpelli, an Italian dressmaker from New York, befriends socialite Rowena Langdon as she's making her summer wardrobe. It's an unlikely friendship, but one that Rowena encourages by inviting Lucy to the family mansion in Newport, Rhode Island. Grateful for Lucy's skill in creating clothes that hide her physical injury, Rowena encourages Lucy to dream of a better future. One day Lucy encounters an intriguing man on the Cliff Walk, and love begins to blossom. Yet Lucy resists, for what man will accept her family responsibilities? Rowena also deals with love as she faces a worrisome arranged marriage to a wealthy heir. And Lucy's teenage sister, Sofia, takes up with a man of dubious character. All three women struggle as their lives, and those of each unlikely suitor, become intertwined in a web of secrets and sacrifice. Will any of them find true happiness?

My thoughts:
Another wonderful novel from Nancy Moser! An Unlikely Suitor is a historical romance that kept me turning pages and wishing for more. Moser is always exciting and this book remains consistent with her past work. The characters are well-developed, the story line is compelling, and the historical facts seem to be in keeping with The Gilded Age. Thank you to Bethany House for my review copy.

The French Lieutenant's Woman

Author: John Fowles

Paperback: 480 pages

Publisher: Back Bay Books;

1st Back Bay pbk. ed edition

(September 1, 1998)

Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780316291163

Book Description:

Perhaps the most loved of Fowles's internationally bestselling works, The French Lieutenant's Woman is a seductive story that effectively invents anew the Victorian novel. The novel inspired the hugely successful 1981 film starring Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons and is today universally regarded as a modern classic.

My thoughts:

Academics may enjoy dissecting TFLW, but for the casual reader it may well be a  disappointment.

The Truth About Mr. Darcy

Author: Susan Adriani
Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (May 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402246137

Book Description:

In this hot tale, Mr. Darcy confesses the truth about George Wickham right from the start, warning Elizabeth and the rest of Meryton about Wickham's despicable character. Will his honesty change the way Elizabeth feels about him and his previous poor behavior? Will he still have to transform himself to win her love? And what will happen when scandal erupts?

My thoughts:

My first thoughts, "another book about Mr. Darcy...oh my!!!" But I soon found it to be a lovely story of intense sexual attraction; love; romance; truth; and the ever deceitful George Wickham. Well-told and a  bit steamy.

(Thank you to Sourcebooks for my review copy.)

Mr. Darcy And The Secret of Becoming A Gentleman

Author: Maria Hamilton
Paperback: 464 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (May 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1402244185

Book Description:

When Elizabeth Bennet refuses his hand, Darcy is devastated and makes it his mission to change. By every civility in his power, Darcy slowly tries to win her affections, but Elizabeth is not easily swayed. Darcy vows to unlock the secrets that will make her his. He curses himself for his social awkwardness and appearance of pride, and sets out to right the wrongs he's done her family.

Elizabeth's family and friends misunderstand his intentions, and being in Elizabeth's presence proves to be both excruciating for the shy Darcy-and a dream come true. For the first time in his life, he must please a woman worth having, and the transformation leads him to a depth of understanding and love that he never could have imagined.

My thoughts:

This is another fun and interesting take on one of Jane Austen's leading characters, the famous Mr. Darcy. Ms. Hamilton has done a fantastic job at making his spirit, once again, come alive for all of his adoring fans. It gave me all the entertainment I was looking for.

Can Mr. Darcy be all that Elizabeth is looking for in a mate? Will he have the courage to overcome his ego? These questions are answered in this well-written, romantic page-turner.

(Thank you to SourceBooks for my review copy.)

Garden Poetry Book Giveaway

Spring is here and it's time for a giveaway! "Everything Victorian and More" together with "The Serenity Gate" is giving away one brand new copy of "The Bouquet" by A Lady. If you love gardens and gardening you will love this beautiful book of poetry, featuring the hidden language of flowers. Our giveaway will take place on June 1st, so be sure to enter. It's easy! Enter now!!

Easy rules:
1. Must be a follower of The Serenity Room and/or Everything Victorian and More
2. Must leave a comment telling us about your favorite flower and leaving your email address

Book Description:A beautiful collection of 117 flower meanings, each accompanied by poems, that will inspire you in your garden. The crocus, lily, rose, jasmine, geranium, daisy, and many more are included in this beautiful book. It would be a wonderful addition to your library or an excellent gift. If you enjoy flowers and gardening, you will delight in the language of flowers revealed in, The Bouquet. This is an all new edition of the book published in 1844. It is not a photocopy or OCR. It has been meticulously edited and reformatted to meet modern standards.

Don't forget to enter. Good luck to all.

THE BOUQUET

Author: A Lady
Paperback: 132 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (May 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1461094577

Book Description:
A beautiful collection of 117 flower meanings, each accompanied by poems, that will inspire you in your garden. The crocus, lily, rose, jasmine, geranium, daisy, and many more are included in this beautiful book. It would be a wonderful addition to your library or an excellent gift. If you enjoy flowers and gardening, you will delight in the language of flowers revealed in, The Bouquet. This is an all new edition of the book published in 1844. It is not a photocopy or OCR. It has been meticulously edited and reformatted to meet modern standards.

My Thoughts:
I received my book today and I'm thrilled with all the beautiful poetry relating to flowers! Did you know that once there were secret meanings connected to various flowers and that family, friends, and lovers understood those meanings? I've read many times about the Gilly Flower in Victorian literature, but didn't know it means "bonds of affection." To understand those non-verbal expressions is one thing that makes this book so beautifully intriguing.  It not only unlocks those secrets, but also acquaints us with the poetry surrounding it.  Reading "historical romance" will never be the same with this helpful book on my nightstand.

With the onset of Spring and Mother's Day, what perfect timing for the entrance of this new edition of the first copy published in 1844. THE BOUQUET would make the perfect Mother's Day gift or addition to any gardener's library. And again, don't forget how helpful it is to understanding the floral aspects of Victorian literature. What a treat! 5 stars*****

Courting Miss Amsel

Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer

Paperback: 346 pages

Publisher: Bethany House (January 1, 2011)

Language: English
ISBN-10: 0764207849

Book Description:

Edythe Amsel is delighted with her first teaching assignment: a one-room schoolhouse in Walnut Hill, Nebraska. Independent, headstrong, and a strong believer in a well-rounded education, Edythe is ready to open the world to the students in this tiny community. But is Walnut Hill ready for her?

Joel Townsend is thrilled to learn the town council hired a female teacher to replace the ruthless man who terrorized his nephews for the past two years. Having raised the boys on his own since their parents' untimely deaths, Joel believes they will benefit from a woman's influence. But he sure didn't bargain on a woman like Miss Amsel. Within the first week, she has the entire town up in arms over her outlandish teaching methods, which include collecting leaves, catching bugs, making snow angels, and stringing ropes in strange patterns all over the schoolyard. Joel can't help but notice that she's also mighty pretty with her rosy lips, fashionable clothes, and fancy way of speaking.

When Edythe decides to take her pupils to hear Miss Susan Anthony speak on the women's suffrage amendment, the town's outcry reaches new heights. Even Joel isn't sure he can support her newfangled ideas any longer. And if he can't trust her to know how to teach the boys, how can he trust her with his heart?

My thoughts:

A strong-willed teacher and a one room school in a small town make this an excellent story background. It is told with clarity and skill; a warm, happy read. This author is new to me, but will certainly go on my favorite author list.  A pleasantly delightful, inspirational, and romantic adventure.

(Thank you to Bethany House for my review copy.)

Mary of Carisbrooke

Author: Margaret Campbell Barnes

Paperback: 352 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; Reprint edition (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9781402255953

Book Description:

The moving, tragic story of Charles I, the last absolute monarch of England, during his imprisonment in Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight. Richly drawn and inspired by the New York Times bestselling author's own experience living on the Isle of Wight, this dramatic retelling brings to life the cavalier king whom Cromwell deposed. But even more fascinating than the account of royal hopes and misfortunes is the tale of a charming servant girl who is as romantic and tender in love as she is bold and resourceful in plotting the king's escape.

About the Author

New York Times bestseller Margaret Campbell Barnes, now deceased, wrote several historical novels, including Brief Gaudy Hour, My Lady of Cleves, King's Fool, The Tudor Rose, Within the Hollow Crown, With All My Heart, Isabel the Fair, The King's Bed, Lady on the Coin, and Mary of Carisbrooke. Her novels have sold more than 2 million copies worldwide.

My thoughts:

Here is another exciting historical romance by Margaret Campbell Barnes. It is the story of intrigue and danger; loyality and power. It flows nicely and is as rich in detail as any I have previously read. Skillfully told by one of England's most loved novelist, the author demonstrates her vast knowledge of the Middle Ages. This is one you will definitely want to add to your bookshelf.


(Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for my review copy.)

Dragonwyck by Anya Seton

Author: Anya Seton
Paperback: 352 pages

Publisher: Chicago Review Press

(September 28, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9781556525810

Book Description:

First published in 1944, Dragonwyck was a national bestseller that was made into a major motion picture starring Gene Tierney and Vincent Price in 1946. A classic gothic romance, the story features an 18-year-old Miranda Wells who falls under the spell of a mysterious old mansion and its equally fascinating master. Tired of churning butter, weeding the garden patch, and receiving the dull young farmers who seek her hand in marriage, Miranda is excited by an invitation from the upstate New York estate of her distant relative, the intriguing Nicholas Van Ryn. Her passion is kindled by the icy fire of Nicholas, the last of the Van Ryns, and the luxury of Dragonwyck, and a way of life of which she has only dreamed. Dressed in satin and lace, she becomes part of Dragonwyck, with its Gothic towers, flowering gardens, acres of tenant farms, and dark, terrible secrets. This compelling novel paints a marvelous portrait of a country torn between freedom and feudal traditions; a country divided between the very wealthy and the very poor. Poor tenant farmers at Dragonwyck, the European royalty who visit, and American icons such as Edgar Allan Poe, Herman Melville, and the Astors are vividly brought to life. This is a heart-stopping story of a remarkable woman, her breathtaking passions, and the mystery and terror that await her in the magnificent hallways of Dragonwyck.

My Thoughts:
Although Dragonwyck was first published in 1944, it reads like a novel by one of the great victorian writers. In fact, it very much reminds me of Jane Eyre on a slightly smaller scale.

Dragonwyck is a Cinderella story with a dark background and gothic touch. Our beautiful Miranda arrives at Dragonwyck with storybook dreams, but finds in her hero a sinister mystery that only she can solve.

I am completely new to the writings of Anya Seton (where have I been?) and so taken with her that I have now ordered all of her works. I love a good gothic tale complete with the dark old homes and beautiful manners of the past; Dragonwyck completely mesmerized me and held my attention from the beginning. It is fast-paced, heart-stopping, and beautifully written. If you like entering a Cinderella world, you will love this book. 5+ stars*****