Thursday, July 18, 2013

Book review - Devil's Cub by Georgette Heyer

Devil's Cub by Georgette Heyer


Summary (from the back of the book):
Like father, like son...
Dominic Alistair, Marquis of Vidal and fiery son of the notorious Duke of Avon, has established a raking reputation that rivals his father's, living a life of excess and indulgence. Banished to the Continent after wounding his opponent in a duel, Vidal schemes to abduct the silly aristocrat bent on seducing him into marriage and make her his mistress instead. In his rush, however, he seems to have taken the wrong woman...
A young lady of remarkable fortitude...
Determined to save her sister from ruin, virtuous Mary Challoner intercepts the Marquis's advances and throws herself into his path, hoping Vidal will release her upon realizing his error. Bit at the two become irrevocably entangled, Mary's reputation and future lie in the hands of a devilish rake, who fins her more fascinating every day...

My rating: 3.5/5

I thought this book was a lot of fun! Georgette Heyer has such a way with writing. The interactions between Vidal and Mary are entertaining and we get to know them very well through their words. Vidal is the definition of having a devil-may-care attitude, and his character is both shocking and enjoyable to read. Mary is a smart and level headed woman, but also has a sharp wit. I was amazed by her strength and calmness given the situations she was put into. My favorite parts of the book were the interactions between the characters. The main characters are great, but there is an excellent supporting cast as well. I had hoped for a little more romance on Vidal's part, but I think what was there fit with his character well.  All in all this book told an interesting story, had plenty of good dialouge and wit, and a good deal of scheming as well. I love a good scheme!

I would recommend this book to older teens and up. Seeing as Vidal is very much a rake, (a womanizer in other words), there are references to some acts of a scandalous nature. Nothing is described, but still. 

Rating: 2/2.5/1
There are some sexual references, but no sex acts and no explicit details of any sort. There is a murder with a short gory reference, a few duels, some threats and some other light violence. There are a few swear words, but nothing too extreme, as well as several uses of "Lord"
 
You can buy this book here.

Enjoy!

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Book Review - Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson


Summary (From the back of the book):
Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry.

From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will she be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke.


My rating: 4.5/5

I love this book! I love Regency romances and this is a great one! It is not only entertaining, but also has just the right amount of mystery, romance, and humor. It is the first in the "Proper Romance" Novel collection, and the description fit perfectly. It was clean, but still made me gush, and I still got sucked in without being embarrassed about the content.

I loved Marianne's journey and how much she learned and grew throughout the story. Her story felt very genuine. I felt like I could really relate to her. She compared herself with her sister a lot, and I compare myself with people all the time. I realize its totally damaging, but I can't help it. I was so glad when she finally was able to make some changes in her life. I hope some day I can find the courage to make those same changes. There were times when I got so frustrated with her, oh my goodness! I couldn't believe how blind she was and I wanted to shake her! I love stories that are frustrating, but in a fun way! And I loved that she was always true to herself. Philip is such a charmer! He is the perfect mix of gentlemen and flirt. (Two words: "Love Letter!")

There were a couple of lines that seemed a little too modern for the time period, but overall the story was great! I have already reread it a few times and will certainly read it again!

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good, clean sweet love story that still sucks you in.

Rating:  1.5/1.5/0
I would give this a 1.5 for sexual content and violence. There is a kidnapping that includes some fighting and very mild sexual references.

You can buy this book right here.

Enjoy fellow readers!