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Braxton #1
As You Desire
Kidnapped, drugged, and about to be sold to the highest bidder, Desdemona Carlisle is having a hell of a time maintaining her English pride. Then she sees the man in black, galloping through the Egyptian desert on a pure white steed. Desdemona could not have conjured a more dashing savior in her wildest fantasies. But an unlikelier hero would be impossible to find: Harry Braxton is a rogue, a scoundrel, and a born opportunist—who has already broken Desdemona’s heart once before.
As brilliant as she is beautiful, Desdemona still hasn’t learned how to stay out of trouble—which suits Harry just fine. Running from a painful past, and rumored to be involved in nefarious endeavors, Harry will never be a proper match for Desdemona. But when she catches the eye of his cousin, the irritatingly honorable Lord Blake Ravenscroft, Harry vows to claim his one true desire, once and for all.
As brilliant as she is beautiful, Desdemona still hasn’t learned how to stay out of trouble—which suits Harry just fine. Running from a painful past, and rumored to be involved in nefarious endeavors, Harry will never be a proper match for Desdemona. But when she catches the eye of his cousin, the irritatingly honorable Lord Blake Ravenscroft, Harry vows to claim his one true desire, once and for all.
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 1, 1997
153 people are currently reading
4563 people want to read
About the author
Connie Brockway
61 books727 followersNew York Times and USAToday best selling author Connie Brockway has twice won the Romance Writers of America's Rita award for best historical romance as well as being an eight time finalist. After receiving a double major in art history and English from Macalester College, Connie entered grad school with an eye to acquiring her MFA in creative writing. Soon enough she jettisoned the idea of writing serious literature for what she considered (and still considers) the best gig in the world, writing romance.
Connie has received numerous starred reviews for her romances in Publisher's Weekly and Library Journal. Library Journal also named her Her 2004 romance, My Seduction, one of the year's top ten romances.
In November of 2011, THE OTHER GUY'S BRIDE (a sequel to the perennially popular AS YOU DESIRE) was Amazon's Montlake Publishing's launch title. Here next book, NO PLACE FOR A DAME will be published September, 2013. A regency set romance, it is also the sequel to ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT.Today Connie lives in Minnesota with her husband David, a family physician, and two spoiled mutts.
Connie has received numerous starred reviews for her romances in Publisher's Weekly and Library Journal. Library Journal also named her Her 2004 romance, My Seduction, one of the year's top ten romances.
In November of 2011, THE OTHER GUY'S BRIDE (a sequel to the perennially popular AS YOU DESIRE) was Amazon's Montlake Publishing's launch title. Here next book, NO PLACE FOR A DAME will be published September, 2013. A regency set romance, it is also the sequel to ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT.Today Connie lives in Minnesota with her husband David, a family physician, and two spoiled mutts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
July 19, 2010
WOW! LOVED IT, LOVED IT, LOVED IT! That´s all I have to say. :)
And here's my favorite passage (excerpt available at CB's website, so this isn't a spoiler):
“And Blake.” Harry shook his head in disgust. “Such affectations.”
“You are calling someone affected?” she asked, raising her brows. “You, who employ two secretaries, one for your Arab dealings and one for your English? You, who are too high and mighty to write your own correspondence?”
Harry grinned. “That’s different. At least I don’t commit the sin of triteness. Calling you a ‘rose.’ An ‘English rose’ at that. You must forgive him the hackneyed compliment. Old Blake’s not much for originality, I’m afraid.”
“I thought him charming.”
Harry made an unconvinced sound.
“I did. I suppose you could do better?”
“Well were I to make the effort to extol a woman’s beauty, I could certainly do better than to drag out some tired old cliche about a rose.”
“You are the most monumentally egocentric man I know,” Desdemona said, trying to keep the trace of admiration out of her voice.
“You are unconvinced?” Harry asked, taking a sip of coffee and crossing his legs. “Allow me to demonstrate… and please bear in mind that I improvise.”
He spread jam over a piece of toast, studying her quizzically as he did so. She felt like a specimen, standing there under his scrutiny. She took the chair next to his and started buttering her own toast with supreme indifference. She was not a specimen.
“Let me see. Nothing floral. In fact, I think we’ll dispense with the vegetative allusions all together. Animal?” he asked rhetorically. “Perhaps a gazelle? No,” he dismissed the idea, chomping into his toast. “Too meek. Too inconsequential. This is difficult, Diz. To blandish a woman about her physical appearance is so limiting.”
“Yes,” she said dryly, burying a pinprick of hurt. He couldn’t think of anything to compliment her on.
“All right, then,” he finally said. “I’d begin with the way you stand.”
“Stand?” He’d caught her off guard. She blinked.
“Slender. Upright. Face lifted for the sun god’s caress,” he murmured slowly, musingly, as if to himself. He cocked his head, his eyes traveling lingeringly over her body, and she recognized the potent attraction other women must feel when Harry looked at them this way. As if she were the central point upon which all of his world turned. As if he lo—
“Why, look,” he asked in a hushed voice, some thing surprised and painful and pleased in his tone, “even Ra himself cannot resist you. Only see how he lathes your cheeks and brow with his heated tongue”— he reached out, brushing his fingers over her tanned cheek— “marking you with his golden kiss?”
His words were too graphic, too carnal, and she was too aware of his fingers skating along her cheekbone and over her jaw line. He’d never spoken to her this way before. Her heartbeat quickened, thrumming in her throat and in her wrists. She shivered. He smiled. His hand retreated.
“How can a mere mortal man stand a chance if even the gods are so enamored?” he whispered. “And how can one single image describe you? You are a country, a country of unexplored sensation and whim, veiled in dawn, shining, shedding light. See how the long fluid line of your throat flows to your breasts?” If he heard the intake of her breath, he ignored it. “Or how their blue-shadowed curves ripen above the smooth plain of your belly?”
She should stop him, he went too far, but his voice mesmerized her, like sweet, honeyed wine, warm and languorous.
“Your mouth.” He paused, and her lips felt suddenly sensitized, tingling as his gaze fixed on them. “Your mouth is a sweet well sealed against me, keeping me thirsting for the clarity of your kiss. Your flesh is like the desert sand, warmth and shifting strength beneath its golden color. Your palms open, fingers flexed, are minarets, delicate and elegant. And your body… it is the Nile itself— the camber of your back slipping so easily by the narrows of your waist and jettied hips to the lush delta below.”
He stopped. She heard the intake of his breath. “You are my country, Desdemona.” Yearning, harsh and poignant and she felt herself swaying toward him. “My Egypt. My hot, harrowing desert and my cool, verdant Nile, infinitely lovely and unfathomable and sustaining.”
She gasped.
His gaze fell, shielded by his lashes. An odd, half-mocking smile played about his lips. “You’ll never hear old Blake say something like that.”
She swallowed, unable to speak, her senses abraded by his stimulating words, her pulse hammering in anticipation? Trepidation?
“Remember my words next time he calls you a bloody English rose.”
And here's my favorite passage (excerpt available at CB's website, so this isn't a spoiler):
“And Blake.” Harry shook his head in disgust. “Such affectations.”
“You are calling someone affected?” she asked, raising her brows. “You, who employ two secretaries, one for your Arab dealings and one for your English? You, who are too high and mighty to write your own correspondence?”
Harry grinned. “That’s different. At least I don’t commit the sin of triteness. Calling you a ‘rose.’ An ‘English rose’ at that. You must forgive him the hackneyed compliment. Old Blake’s not much for originality, I’m afraid.”
“I thought him charming.”
Harry made an unconvinced sound.
“I did. I suppose you could do better?”
“Well were I to make the effort to extol a woman’s beauty, I could certainly do better than to drag out some tired old cliche about a rose.”
“You are the most monumentally egocentric man I know,” Desdemona said, trying to keep the trace of admiration out of her voice.
“You are unconvinced?” Harry asked, taking a sip of coffee and crossing his legs. “Allow me to demonstrate… and please bear in mind that I improvise.”
He spread jam over a piece of toast, studying her quizzically as he did so. She felt like a specimen, standing there under his scrutiny. She took the chair next to his and started buttering her own toast with supreme indifference. She was not a specimen.
“Let me see. Nothing floral. In fact, I think we’ll dispense with the vegetative allusions all together. Animal?” he asked rhetorically. “Perhaps a gazelle? No,” he dismissed the idea, chomping into his toast. “Too meek. Too inconsequential. This is difficult, Diz. To blandish a woman about her physical appearance is so limiting.”
“Yes,” she said dryly, burying a pinprick of hurt. He couldn’t think of anything to compliment her on.
“All right, then,” he finally said. “I’d begin with the way you stand.”
“Stand?” He’d caught her off guard. She blinked.
“Slender. Upright. Face lifted for the sun god’s caress,” he murmured slowly, musingly, as if to himself. He cocked his head, his eyes traveling lingeringly over her body, and she recognized the potent attraction other women must feel when Harry looked at them this way. As if she were the central point upon which all of his world turned. As if he lo—
“Why, look,” he asked in a hushed voice, some thing surprised and painful and pleased in his tone, “even Ra himself cannot resist you. Only see how he lathes your cheeks and brow with his heated tongue”— he reached out, brushing his fingers over her tanned cheek— “marking you with his golden kiss?”
His words were too graphic, too carnal, and she was too aware of his fingers skating along her cheekbone and over her jaw line. He’d never spoken to her this way before. Her heartbeat quickened, thrumming in her throat and in her wrists. She shivered. He smiled. His hand retreated.
“How can a mere mortal man stand a chance if even the gods are so enamored?” he whispered. “And how can one single image describe you? You are a country, a country of unexplored sensation and whim, veiled in dawn, shining, shedding light. See how the long fluid line of your throat flows to your breasts?” If he heard the intake of her breath, he ignored it. “Or how their blue-shadowed curves ripen above the smooth plain of your belly?”
She should stop him, he went too far, but his voice mesmerized her, like sweet, honeyed wine, warm and languorous.
“Your mouth.” He paused, and her lips felt suddenly sensitized, tingling as his gaze fixed on them. “Your mouth is a sweet well sealed against me, keeping me thirsting for the clarity of your kiss. Your flesh is like the desert sand, warmth and shifting strength beneath its golden color. Your palms open, fingers flexed, are minarets, delicate and elegant. And your body… it is the Nile itself— the camber of your back slipping so easily by the narrows of your waist and jettied hips to the lush delta below.”
He stopped. She heard the intake of his breath. “You are my country, Desdemona.” Yearning, harsh and poignant and she felt herself swaying toward him. “My Egypt. My hot, harrowing desert and my cool, verdant Nile, infinitely lovely and unfathomable and sustaining.”
She gasped.
His gaze fell, shielded by his lashes. An odd, half-mocking smile played about his lips. “You’ll never hear old Blake say something like that.”
She swallowed, unable to speak, her senses abraded by his stimulating words, her pulse hammering in anticipation? Trepidation?
“Remember my words next time he calls you a bloody English rose.”
September 29, 2010
**ducking all the flying tomatoes**
I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy reading this book. I found the story and romance frustrating. The romance didn't work for me because Harry and Dizzy had so many misconceptions between them and I barely saw them interact in a romantic way. Dizzy thinks Harry doesn't like her as more than a friend for most of the book, while we don't see Harry's real feelings until past the 100 page mark then I was annoyed at him for not going after what he wanted. I just did not enjoy the way the romance unfolded and the way his cousin was included to keep them apart. I also did not like the way Harry's dyslexia took over so much of the plot, I understand it would have been a problem but it was just over emphasized as a plot point.
I am glad so many people enjoyed this book but I was not one of them. I still gave it three stars because while the writing style wasn't to my taste, it was still well written.
I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy reading this book. I found the story and romance frustrating. The romance didn't work for me because Harry and Dizzy had so many misconceptions between them and I barely saw them interact in a romantic way. Dizzy thinks Harry doesn't like her as more than a friend for most of the book, while we don't see Harry's real feelings until past the 100 page mark then I was annoyed at him for not going after what he wanted. I just did not enjoy the way the romance unfolded and the way his cousin was included to keep them apart. I also did not like the way Harry's dyslexia took over so much of the plot, I understand it would have been a problem but it was just over emphasized as a plot point.
I am glad so many people enjoyed this book but I was not one of them. I still gave it three stars because while the writing style wasn't to my taste, it was still well written.
May 11, 2012
Hero and heroine stupidity. Nothing special or different. I wanted it to be over.
STORY BRIEF:
Desdemona (Des) was a child prodigy. She spent her youth with strict tutors who taught her many languages, including Egyptian hieroglyphics. Her parents died. She now lives with her grandfather in Egypt. She sneaks out of the house often, dressed in disguise as an Arab woman, going to bazaars and antique dealers. Her grandfather is an expert in Egyptian antiques and doesn’t have much money. Des provides translation services to help with household expenses.
Harry grew up in England but moved to Egypt eight years ago. He has dyslexia and cannot read. He was beaten and abused by teachers and kids because of it. He is smart and talented in other ways which has made him wealthy from finding and dealing in antiques.
Des and Harry love each other but Harry has never admitted this or allowed anything to happen.
Harry’s cousin Blake arrives and is attracted to Des. Marta, an English widow, desires Harry.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This is a formulaic romance story. If the setting and characters above appeal to you, you might like it. I wanted something more.
My problems:
Three times the heroine goes out alone, not thinking, puts herself in danger, and gets kidnaped or harmed. Each time Harry just happens to be the one to rescue her. The worst incident was after she received a message from someone who had ulterior motives. She knew of these motives, yet she stupidly goes out alone to do the thing and gets harmed.
Even Harry was stupid. Four men are chasing him. Instead of letting Blake help him, Harry sends Blake away and faces the bad guys alone, with bad results. If I was supposed to admire Harry for keeping Blake safe, I did not.
After they get together, Des starts a fight and leaves him. I can accept the split. It’s the formula. But her reasons were odd. I felt no connection to her thinking.
Hero thinks he’s not good enough for her so he rejects her advances. I can accept that as a motivator, but it’s been done soooo much before. And then this adds to her inaccurate assumption problem. She thinks he doesn’t love her. This conflict just did not interest me.
We never get to see them develop feelings for each other. That’s usually the best part of a romance. This book starts with that assumption. I’m not saying it’s required, but it would have been nice.
DATA:
Story length: 390 pages. Swearing language: moderate, including religious swear words. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: 2. Total number of sex scene pages: 12. Setting: 1890 Egypt. Copyright: 1997. Genre: historical romance.
STORY BRIEF:
Desdemona (Des) was a child prodigy. She spent her youth with strict tutors who taught her many languages, including Egyptian hieroglyphics. Her parents died. She now lives with her grandfather in Egypt. She sneaks out of the house often, dressed in disguise as an Arab woman, going to bazaars and antique dealers. Her grandfather is an expert in Egyptian antiques and doesn’t have much money. Des provides translation services to help with household expenses.
Harry grew up in England but moved to Egypt eight years ago. He has dyslexia and cannot read. He was beaten and abused by teachers and kids because of it. He is smart and talented in other ways which has made him wealthy from finding and dealing in antiques.
Des and Harry love each other but Harry has never admitted this or allowed anything to happen.
Harry’s cousin Blake arrives and is attracted to Des. Marta, an English widow, desires Harry.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This is a formulaic romance story. If the setting and characters above appeal to you, you might like it. I wanted something more.
My problems:
Three times the heroine goes out alone, not thinking, puts herself in danger, and gets kidnaped or harmed. Each time Harry just happens to be the one to rescue her. The worst incident was after she received a message from someone who had ulterior motives. She knew of these motives, yet she stupidly goes out alone to do the thing and gets harmed.
Even Harry was stupid. Four men are chasing him. Instead of letting Blake help him, Harry sends Blake away and faces the bad guys alone, with bad results. If I was supposed to admire Harry for keeping Blake safe, I did not.
After they get together, Des starts a fight and leaves him. I can accept the split. It’s the formula. But her reasons were odd. I felt no connection to her thinking.
Hero thinks he’s not good enough for her so he rejects her advances. I can accept that as a motivator, but it’s been done soooo much before. And then this adds to her inaccurate assumption problem. She thinks he doesn’t love her. This conflict just did not interest me.
We never get to see them develop feelings for each other. That’s usually the best part of a romance. This book starts with that assumption. I’m not saying it’s required, but it would have been nice.
DATA:
Story length: 390 pages. Swearing language: moderate, including religious swear words. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: 2. Total number of sex scene pages: 12. Setting: 1890 Egypt. Copyright: 1997. Genre: historical romance.
January 30, 2025
This was such a fun historical romance that took place in Egypt! I would have loved a bit more of the history/archeology aspect, but I loved how the hero was so gone for the heroine from the start. She thinks he hates her because she made a move years ago and he rejected her. Little does she know, he just doesn't feel good enough for her. The hero has dyslexia, and I loved the exploration of living with a learning disability during this time and how the hero really made a name for himself in Egypt. There was a lot of kidnapping and, with the romance, so much consent from the hero! Definitely a solid and fun historical romance!
October 17, 2018
Egyptian setting and archeology and wonderful heroine. I did not like the hero. The story was him rescuing her all the time because she kept putting herself in harms way. He pushed her away because he loved her sooooo much. Yet it was okay that he had lovers during that three years that he said he loved her. Heroes who love heroines don't sleep with other women. At least we didn't have to see him doing it.He just thought about how he was always grateful and made sure the women loved it. And ex mistress in book that wanted him but he didn't want her. I thought the love story for her and the American Cal was far better than the one with Harry and Diz. I didn't see the humor either that other people said it had. Just not my cup of tea I guess. I like faithful heroes. And yes he did love her I guess but he just bugged me. The story was okay and he got the heroine in the end. So yay I guess. I was definitely underwhelmed. Unpopular opinion alert. Don't hate me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2022
Last read: 3/11
A fun, charming story. Nothing
special just a fun adventure!
A fun, charming story. Nothing
special just a fun adventure!
November 9, 2022
Harry and Desdemona. They were just...perfect for each other.
This was easily a 5-star read. A page-turner right from the beginning. This was a romantic adventure with a few tender-hearted moments thrown in. This book reminds me of Mr. Impossible by Loretta Chase. Same vibe with the egyptian setting. It has a bit of everything - an exotic setting, witty banters, a swoon-worthy hero and a feisty heroine. Seriously, it just couldn't get any better than this. Thanks to this book, it was a sleepless night yesterday.
This was easily a 5-star read. A page-turner right from the beginning. This was a romantic adventure with a few tender-hearted moments thrown in. This book reminds me of Mr. Impossible by Loretta Chase. Same vibe with the egyptian setting. It has a bit of everything - an exotic setting, witty banters, a swoon-worthy hero and a feisty heroine. Seriously, it just couldn't get any better than this. Thanks to this book, it was a sleepless night yesterday.
August 27, 2016
Thanks again, Jilly, for introducing me to another very talented author and fantastic read!
4.5 Wonderful, Delightful Stars!
Harry Braxton is a hero I won't soon forget as well as the heroine, Desdemona Carlisle.
Set in Victorian Egypt, Desdemona is a heroine I completely adored and one who brought many laugh out loud moments. A child prodigy, Desdemona could read by the time she was two and lost her childhood to parents more concerned with developing and displaying her remarkable talents than in allowing her to be young and carefree. At age fifteen, an accident renders her orphaned and she finds herself living in Egypt with her grandfather. Here, she blossoms into a self-confident, independent young lady with a romantic heart yearning for her knight in shining armor.
Harry Braxton is a sexy, intense, protective and charming hero. He also holds closely a secret that has tortured him for most of his life. As the story unfolds and the depth of Harry’s pain is revealed, my heart broke completely. He has escaped the ravages of England where he learned “pain is the only reward for clinging to impossible dreams.” In Cairo he finds acceptance, respect, and a lucrative vocation that he loves. And yet, the scars from his past still linger causing him to reject the longings of his heart.
I loved so many things about this book. It’s a sensual, emotional, touching, tender love story with many laugh out loud moments. The writing, the plot, as well as the complex, lovable MCs make this an excellent read. I definitely want more.
One of my favorite quotes occurs when Harry's cousin compares Desdemona to the English rose. Some may find Harry's response a little cheesy, but for me...I loved it:)
4.5 Wonderful, Delightful Stars!
Harry Braxton is a hero I won't soon forget as well as the heroine, Desdemona Carlisle.
Set in Victorian Egypt, Desdemona is a heroine I completely adored and one who brought many laugh out loud moments. A child prodigy, Desdemona could read by the time she was two and lost her childhood to parents more concerned with developing and displaying her remarkable talents than in allowing her to be young and carefree. At age fifteen, an accident renders her orphaned and she finds herself living in Egypt with her grandfather. Here, she blossoms into a self-confident, independent young lady with a romantic heart yearning for her knight in shining armor.
Harry Braxton is a sexy, intense, protective and charming hero. He also holds closely a secret that has tortured him for most of his life. As the story unfolds and the depth of Harry’s pain is revealed, my heart broke completely. He has escaped the ravages of England where he learned “pain is the only reward for clinging to impossible dreams.” In Cairo he finds acceptance, respect, and a lucrative vocation that he loves. And yet, the scars from his past still linger causing him to reject the longings of his heart.
I loved so many things about this book. It’s a sensual, emotional, touching, tender love story with many laugh out loud moments. The writing, the plot, as well as the complex, lovable MCs make this an excellent read. I definitely want more.
One of my favorite quotes occurs when Harry's cousin compares Desdemona to the English rose. Some may find Harry's response a little cheesy, but for me...I loved it:)
November 1, 2016
It's really not the book, just me!
I'm torn about this book. I've enjoyed other books by Connie Brockway, but this one just didn't work for me. At all. From the very beginning. I didn't hate it, but I just rolled my eyes so much at it that I didn't enjoy it... I've been told you have to be in the mood for this, and I definitely wasn't. To me, it was too over the top, too farcical, too. Everything. I didn't find any of it funny for some reason. Not the stupidity of the heroine (seriously, she get's kidnapped twice, drugged twice, and wonders why this would happen to a blond Englishwoman in Egypt...), not the squabbles over antiques, not the vindictive ex-lover trope, the "been in love for years, but refused to tell because the other one deserves better" trope... Not any of it. Sorry, I guess this just wasn't my cup of tea.
I'm torn about this book. I've enjoyed other books by Connie Brockway, but this one just didn't work for me. At all. From the very beginning. I didn't hate it, but I just rolled my eyes so much at it that I didn't enjoy it... I've been told you have to be in the mood for this, and I definitely wasn't. To me, it was too over the top, too farcical, too. Everything. I didn't find any of it funny for some reason. Not the stupidity of the heroine (seriously, she get's kidnapped twice, drugged twice, and wonders why this would happen to a blond Englishwoman in Egypt...), not the squabbles over antiques, not the vindictive ex-lover trope, the "been in love for years, but refused to tell because the other one deserves better" trope... Not any of it. Sorry, I guess this just wasn't my cup of tea.
January 23, 2024
3.5 to 4 stars. Likeable characters and an interesting setting in Cairo in the late nineteenth century. The book was published in 1997, and it did feel a little old-fashioned in story style. Much of the plot revolved around the two leads not being able to get together because of misunderstandings and miscommunication. I found this a bit frustrating to read. Not my favourite plot style.
The writer did write respectfully about Egypt and its people, with some realism in the writing. The poverty of many at the time was recognised, as was the immorality of stealing artefacts. I liked that both Harry and Dizzy truly loved Egypt, seeing its beauty along with its flaws.
Overall it was an enjoyable read, if a little frustrating at times.
The writer did write respectfully about Egypt and its people, with some realism in the writing. The poverty of many at the time was recognised, as was the immorality of stealing artefacts. I liked that both Harry and Dizzy truly loved Egypt, seeing its beauty along with its flaws.
Overall it was an enjoyable read, if a little frustrating at times.
March 21, 2011
I just saw someone mention a “frenemies-to-lovers” plot, which is an apt description for this historical romance. As it opens, Desdemona (Dizzy) has been captured by Egyptian slave traders and is half-fearfully, half-eagerly waiting to see what’s going to happen. (She has a vivid and romantic imagination. Also, she’s bored and somewhat tipsy.) But the mysterious, exotic figure she envisions owning her turns out to be someone she knows very well: “She stared at him, disbelief turning to amazement, turning to fury. ‘Harry Braxton, if you bought me, I’ll kill you.’”
Dizzy and Harry have had a somewhat contentious relationship, ever since she attempted to seduce him when she was 17 and he laughed. As two English people living in Egypt, they often travel in the same circles and sometimes work together, but Dizzy distrusts Harry, even while she can’t stop thinking about his beautiful mouth. Obsessed with ideas of romance and of a respectable life in England, she doesn’t notice how much he does for her or how much her distrust hurts him... although he’s been carefully instilling it.
What a charming, refreshing book. I’ve developed a reading allergy to historicals featuring archeology themes, but this one is written in an appealing laconic, laid-back style that makes Egypt in the Victorian era seem utterly delightful, albeit dangerous. Brockway is always a little offbeat, as in this scene in which Dizzy is once again inadvertently under the influence, this time of Hashish:
“Do you have any Turkish delight around here?" Duraid heard her muffled voice ask.
“No,” the Copt said.
“Anything... crunchy?”
“Crunchy? I do not think so.”
“Rats.”
Yes, our historical romance heroine has the Munchies.
But even more then the humor, I was thrilled by the beautiful, sensual love scenes. Harry is a man who's had to sharpen his brains and tongue to survive and he really knows how to use both to make a woman feel loved.
This wasn't without flaws, but it left with me with the happiest of happy sighs.
Dizzy and Harry have had a somewhat contentious relationship, ever since she attempted to seduce him when she was 17 and he laughed. As two English people living in Egypt, they often travel in the same circles and sometimes work together, but Dizzy distrusts Harry, even while she can’t stop thinking about his beautiful mouth. Obsessed with ideas of romance and of a respectable life in England, she doesn’t notice how much he does for her or how much her distrust hurts him... although he’s been carefully instilling it.
What a charming, refreshing book. I’ve developed a reading allergy to historicals featuring archeology themes, but this one is written in an appealing laconic, laid-back style that makes Egypt in the Victorian era seem utterly delightful, albeit dangerous. Brockway is always a little offbeat, as in this scene in which Dizzy is once again inadvertently under the influence, this time of Hashish:
“Do you have any Turkish delight around here?" Duraid heard her muffled voice ask.
“No,” the Copt said.
“Anything... crunchy?”
“Crunchy? I do not think so.”
“Rats.”
Yes, our historical romance heroine has the Munchies.
But even more then the humor, I was thrilled by the beautiful, sensual love scenes. Harry is a man who's had to sharpen his brains and tongue to survive and he really knows how to use both to make a woman feel loved.
This wasn't without flaws, but it left with me with the happiest of happy sighs.
January 27, 2025
4.5 stars! This was so good! Victorian era historical romance, set in Egypt, friends to lovers (very much friend zoned vibes), dyslexia rep (the hero), lots of banter and shenanigans!
Besides maybe 10% in the beginning of the story, this was so much fun! Very flowery, descriptive writing at times that took me a bit to get into (would sometimes forget what the author was describing with all the added descriptors 😅). We follow Harry Braxton and Desdemona in Egypt. She was a child prodigy who can read 12 different languages and now lives with her grandfather in Egypt but dreams of an idyllic life in England one day. Harry has dyslexia and left England behind with no interest in ever returning. They’re both into one another but don’t think the other is, yet he’s always coming to her rescue and everyone around them can see it. When his cousin arrives in town and becomes interested in Desdemona, things go from there!
I loved this one once I got into it! Loved how much he wanted her but was also trying to fight it since he knew she wanted to return to England and he didn’t want to. He’s also thinking he’s unworthy of the likes of her because of his dyslexia (or “word blindness” of the time). And the things he says to her, the poems, professing his feelings and love, ahh so good! I also appreciated the side characters as well, some of the storylines could have turned villainous but I appreciate that they didn’t! I definitely want to read more from this author now!
“You are my country, Desdemona.”
“Home was her.”
Besides maybe 10% in the beginning of the story, this was so much fun! Very flowery, descriptive writing at times that took me a bit to get into (would sometimes forget what the author was describing with all the added descriptors 😅). We follow Harry Braxton and Desdemona in Egypt. She was a child prodigy who can read 12 different languages and now lives with her grandfather in Egypt but dreams of an idyllic life in England one day. Harry has dyslexia and left England behind with no interest in ever returning. They’re both into one another but don’t think the other is, yet he’s always coming to her rescue and everyone around them can see it. When his cousin arrives in town and becomes interested in Desdemona, things go from there!
I loved this one once I got into it! Loved how much he wanted her but was also trying to fight it since he knew she wanted to return to England and he didn’t want to. He’s also thinking he’s unworthy of the likes of her because of his dyslexia (or “word blindness” of the time). And the things he says to her, the poems, professing his feelings and love, ahh so good! I also appreciated the side characters as well, some of the storylines could have turned villainous but I appreciate that they didn’t! I definitely want to read more from this author now!
“You are my country, Desdemona.”
“Home was her.”
June 12, 2025
I loved this story. I thought it was sweet and charming.
Update: 3/27/2020 Desdemona and Harry's love story. I just love how the author used "desire" all throughout this romance. Desdemona desires, her grandfathers desires, Harry desires, his cousin's desires, the villain desires, etc. The title of this book is perfect for the story.
4/2022 Reread
5/17/2023 Reread again.
2024 and 2025. At this point just assume I read it every year. Always 5.
Update: 3/27/2020 Desdemona and Harry's love story. I just love how the author used "desire" all throughout this romance. Desdemona desires, her grandfathers desires, Harry desires, his cousin's desires, the villain desires, etc. The title of this book is perfect for the story.
4/2022 Reread
5/17/2023 Reread again.
2024 and 2025. At this point just assume I read it every year. Always 5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2022
This book *sigh* With every re read I fall head over petticoats more in love with Harry. That devil may care rogue with a painful secret who friend zones the woman he secretly pines for because he feels he's not good enough for her. His Dizzy is a sweet but naive and yes at times silly girl with heart eyes who dreams of being swept off her feet by one of the romantic heroes that live in her imagination. The entire thing takes place in Egypt and it's a perfect mix of adventure and character driven romance. It's just a freaking delight.
"Damn her, home wasn’t an island or a cottage. It wasn’t a place. Home was her."
Brockway writes emotion and longing like no other and this book is one of the most beautifully written pining romances ever.
"Harry would come for her. Harry, she remembered Magi saying, would always come for her. And she knew it was true. She knew it as surely she knew the sun would rise, the desert would burn, and the sea was salt. It was as elemental and irrefutable as the planets’ course across the heavens. Harry would come because he loved her."
Recommended for fans of Lisa Kleypas, Loretta Chase and Julie Anne Long.
Tropes:
Pining hero
Friends to Lovers
Rescue trope
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥/5
"Damn her, home wasn’t an island or a cottage. It wasn’t a place. Home was her."
Brockway writes emotion and longing like no other and this book is one of the most beautifully written pining romances ever.
"Harry would come for her. Harry, she remembered Magi saying, would always come for her. And she knew it was true. She knew it as surely she knew the sun would rise, the desert would burn, and the sea was salt. It was as elemental and irrefutable as the planets’ course across the heavens. Harry would come because he loved her."
Recommended for fans of Lisa Kleypas, Loretta Chase and Julie Anne Long.
Tropes:
Pining hero
Friends to Lovers
Rescue trope
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥/5
April 9, 2010
A quirky historical romance in many ways, I really enjoyed As You Desire.
This story follows our protags through the sands and markets of Egypt as they come to an understanding about each other. I loved that the setting of AYD stayed in Egypt. Historical Romance is my first love, but, having read the genre through several decades now, I've grown weary of the English/Scottish settings. Reading this one was breath of fresh air and it is my desire to see other authors branch out like that.
Desdemona has known Harry Braxton for years now, ever since she arrived in Egypt to live with her grandfather after her parents died in England. She's had a different sort of childhood. Her scholarly parents found out early that Dizzy, as Harry calls her, is a prodigy of sorts- she's able to read and translate languages in a manner way beyond her age. Much of her childhood was spent in libraries and on stages where her parents lectured and displayed her talent to the world.
Her grandfather is quite content to live out the rest of his life in Egypt, but Dizzy has it in her head that he would be better back home in England- as she knows she certainly would. You see, she only wants to be a normal girl- back in England, raising a family in a cottage with a summer garden. For this reason her grandfather is willing to make it happen, but first they have to raise the money to get them back on their feet after he had lost much of their wealth through poor management.
Harry fell for Desdemona from the first time he laid eyes on her but his desperate secret keeps him emotionally distant, though he can't help but come to the rescue whenever she falls into trouble- which she seems to have a penchant for doing, and OFTEN!
At the opening of this book, Dizzy has been kidnapped from a market outing on her own and is awaiting a unknown future- likely sold into slavery, possible worse.
But she's been there for several days and ... she's bored. Enter her savior. But its not the dark desert prince she imagines in her fanciful fantasies- it's only Harry. Harry, who she once thought she'd loved but who one night rebuffed her passionate advances, making her more angry than hurt. (Okay she was hurt too, but one has to keep up appearances when rejected so soundly!)
Still, a rescue is a rescue and with little ado, she follows him out. The whole ordeal has made her a bit miffed too because she's realized her captors paid Harry to take her off their hands- a girl's pride is bound to be hurt by that and some how she knows the circumstances are not all they seem. Especially if Harry is involved.
From there on we find this scenario playing out in different ways. Dizzy, doesn't follow English proper ways on how a Lady should conduct herself, needless to say, and it gets her into numerous scrapes. But Harry will always find her and save her. She knows this though she never voices it. And. He never fails to do so.
I loved that about him. And though he shows an affable laughing face to the world, there is much more to him then what he portrays.
But all that's about to change- his cousin, the outwardly noble Blake Ravenscroft has come to Egypt now in desperate need of Harry's help, much to his chagrin.
Of course, Harry finds he can know longer hold back his true nature- because Dizzy is sure Blake is the man of her dreams.
Desdemona is a great heroine. Cheeky and not average in anyway, she does as she pleases though professing to long for a life as an average English Lady. Harry is handsome and much more worthy than his cousin, though his cousin is the one with the title. Yep, Harry has a secret, one that his family has used to put him down numerous times, but he's far nobler than they assume and his secret- just melts my heart! I love that Harry's made something of himself despite his "flaws" too. He really is a great hero though not your average one in anyway either!
I highly recommend this read if you haven't read it already. If you are in the mood for a quick historical romance read a cut above the rest, this one is for you!
This story follows our protags through the sands and markets of Egypt as they come to an understanding about each other. I loved that the setting of AYD stayed in Egypt. Historical Romance is my first love, but, having read the genre through several decades now, I've grown weary of the English/Scottish settings. Reading this one was breath of fresh air and it is my desire to see other authors branch out like that.
Desdemona has known Harry Braxton for years now, ever since she arrived in Egypt to live with her grandfather after her parents died in England. She's had a different sort of childhood. Her scholarly parents found out early that Dizzy, as Harry calls her, is a prodigy of sorts- she's able to read and translate languages in a manner way beyond her age. Much of her childhood was spent in libraries and on stages where her parents lectured and displayed her talent to the world.
Her grandfather is quite content to live out the rest of his life in Egypt, but Dizzy has it in her head that he would be better back home in England- as she knows she certainly would. You see, she only wants to be a normal girl- back in England, raising a family in a cottage with a summer garden. For this reason her grandfather is willing to make it happen, but first they have to raise the money to get them back on their feet after he had lost much of their wealth through poor management.
Harry fell for Desdemona from the first time he laid eyes on her but his desperate secret keeps him emotionally distant, though he can't help but come to the rescue whenever she falls into trouble- which she seems to have a penchant for doing, and OFTEN!
At the opening of this book, Dizzy has been kidnapped from a market outing on her own and is awaiting a unknown future- likely sold into slavery, possible worse.
But she's been there for several days and ... she's bored. Enter her savior. But its not the dark desert prince she imagines in her fanciful fantasies- it's only Harry. Harry, who she once thought she'd loved but who one night rebuffed her passionate advances, making her more angry than hurt. (Okay she was hurt too, but one has to keep up appearances when rejected so soundly!)
Still, a rescue is a rescue and with little ado, she follows him out. The whole ordeal has made her a bit miffed too because she's realized her captors paid Harry to take her off their hands- a girl's pride is bound to be hurt by that and some how she knows the circumstances are not all they seem. Especially if Harry is involved.
From there on we find this scenario playing out in different ways. Dizzy, doesn't follow English proper ways on how a Lady should conduct herself, needless to say, and it gets her into numerous scrapes. But Harry will always find her and save her. She knows this though she never voices it. And. He never fails to do so.
I loved that about him. And though he shows an affable laughing face to the world, there is much more to him then what he portrays.
But all that's about to change- his cousin, the outwardly noble Blake Ravenscroft has come to Egypt now in desperate need of Harry's help, much to his chagrin.
Of course, Harry finds he can know longer hold back his true nature- because Dizzy is sure Blake is the man of her dreams.
Desdemona is a great heroine. Cheeky and not average in anyway, she does as she pleases though professing to long for a life as an average English Lady. Harry is handsome and much more worthy than his cousin, though his cousin is the one with the title. Yep, Harry has a secret, one that his family has used to put him down numerous times, but he's far nobler than they assume and his secret- just melts my heart! I love that Harry's made something of himself despite his "flaws" too. He really is a great hero though not your average one in anyway either!
I highly recommend this read if you haven't read it already. If you are in the mood for a quick historical romance read a cut above the rest, this one is for you!
April 14, 2025
"Would you care to explain why you are looting through my things?"
"Looting? What a vulgar choice of words," Harry said. "I was merely waiting for you to wake up and looking about for something to do."
"Theft is an interesting pastime."
"You used to be such a sweet creature. So trusting." He tched gently. "Whatever happened to you?"
"You."
I have no idea how I have read so many HRs and never one by Connie Brockway. A mistake, if I take this book as an indication.
It's set in Cairo in 1890, when the British occupied Egypt and grave robbers and scientists excavated (and took away) ancient treasures. Desdemona, the heroine, is the British wunderkind of Egyptology. Despite her talent, she lives in rather poor circumstances with her grandfather, head of Antiquity Acquisitions for the British Museum of History. She enjoys a rather free life away from the strict English conventions, and is a romantic at heart.
She's in love with Harry Braxton, who fled England and his dreams after being expelled from Oxford for cheating. Harry has made a name for himself in Egypt but walks the fine line between scientist and treasure hunter. Handsome and notoriously charming, he's a magnet for women, though his heart secretly belongs to Desdemona. He doesn't think he's good enough for her because of his "handicap", but when his cousin, Lord Ravenscroft, arrives in Egypt and courts her, Harry knows it's now or never.
Oh, how much fun I had with this book! It has amazing main characters, adventure, intrigue, a wonderful atmosphere and an outstanding witty writing style. It also has more POVs than I usually like, but here I did because it shed some extra light on the heroes.
"Looting? What a vulgar choice of words," Harry said. "I was merely waiting for you to wake up and looking about for something to do."
"Theft is an interesting pastime."
"You used to be such a sweet creature. So trusting." He tched gently. "Whatever happened to you?"
"You."
I have no idea how I have read so many HRs and never one by Connie Brockway. A mistake, if I take this book as an indication.
It's set in Cairo in 1890, when the British occupied Egypt and grave robbers and scientists excavated (and took away) ancient treasures. Desdemona, the heroine, is the British wunderkind of Egyptology. Despite her talent, she lives in rather poor circumstances with her grandfather, head of Antiquity Acquisitions for the British Museum of History. She enjoys a rather free life away from the strict English conventions, and is a romantic at heart.
She's in love with Harry Braxton, who fled England and his dreams after being expelled from Oxford for cheating. Harry has made a name for himself in Egypt but walks the fine line between scientist and treasure hunter. Handsome and notoriously charming, he's a magnet for women, though his heart secretly belongs to Desdemona. He doesn't think he's good enough for her because of his "handicap", but when his cousin, Lord Ravenscroft, arrives in Egypt and courts her, Harry knows it's now or never.
Oh, how much fun I had with this book! It has amazing main characters, adventure, intrigue, a wonderful atmosphere and an outstanding witty writing style. It also has more POVs than I usually like, but here I did because it shed some extra light on the heroes.
December 28, 2011
★★★★¼ My second ¼ star rating, but it wasn’t quite at 4½ and I wanted to let some people know that it is well worth the read and might be a candidate for their “favorites shelf”. A fun book with a wonderful hero and heroine, plus many secondary characters, all set in exotic Egypt. I really put off reading this one for too long, ladies. Looking forward to the next in the series.
The Braxtons
January 18, 2016
What a wonderful read! Harry was just the bomb in this book. I wanted to hug him at least 50 times during the reading of the book and then go out and hurt anybody that even looked at him wrong. There wasn't any magic, a changeling, a vampire or werewolf in sight in the book. It wasn't even that long, but it was well wrote simple historical romance. The writing imagery was really beautiful and the poetry that Harry spoke to Dizzy had me fanning myself. Sweet words for sure. If I had a drawback, I wish the ending could have been drawn out just a bit more. I wasn't ready to leave Harry and Desdemona's world just yet. I can see why this little jewel of a books made AAR's top 100. I could just kick myself for waiting so long to read it.
November 9, 2020
This was a stay up all night kind of book. I definitely plan to read more by the author. I do wish I knew how old Harry was. Desdemona was 15 when she met him, 17 when she tried to seduce him, and 20 during the bulk of the story. I know he must have been older since he was already sexually experienced but I was never really sure how much older. He was a rogue and desirable to many women. Although he definitely accepted much no strings attached sex, I didn't think him a true rake. Both the MCs are extraordinarily beautiful and smart - no ugly duckling or mismatch to these two. The setting and secondary characters added to the story.
January 22, 2012
I loved, loved, loved this book. Such an original story and setting, excellent writing, great characters. An unforgettable, different hero. An unforgettable romance which raised the bar on my historical romance reading.
HERO is a Rogue and a Loner, ashamed of what he thinks makes him a lesser man and who doesn't feel worthy of the heroine he's loved for years.
SCENES/CONTENT: few/hot
GENRE/TONE: historical/drama
LENGHT: 390 pages
HERO is a Rogue and a Loner, ashamed of what he thinks makes him a lesser man and who doesn't feel worthy of the heroine he's loved for years.
SCENES/CONTENT: few/hot
GENRE/TONE: historical/drama
LENGHT: 390 pages
February 15, 2011
Without preambles i would get to the pt and say " this book will always have a special place in my heart" for several reasons.
the setting, the characters, the plot, the prose! do i have to say more?!? :)
the setting is Victorian Egypt. it was an amazing ride! Brockway makes the most beautiful descriptions of an Egyptian sunset..the color, textures, smells, the atmosphere that surrounds this characters is just amazingly exotic!.
the plot was enchanting!! We have two people who have always felt like outsiders in their own land. Cairo provides them an opportunity to reveal the best of themselves, to be comfortable with who they are.. and of course the challenge is to find a sense of complete belonging;to find home in each other.
The story revolves around the main character`s own demons. This is not so much the typical inner struggle of the battered hero/heroine. The kind of struggle our Hero Harry goes through is part of him,hence he need to learn to accept it, and work his way around it. The how, was what made him quite remarkable!. Harry never expected life to get easier but to make the best of what was available to him. His worst enemy was himself. The fear to loose the one person he wanted most in the world; Dizzy. He was his best friend, and confidante ..he always rescued her and loved her enough to let her grow and be herself.. Brockway colored his personality as an outspoken fearless, highly sociable charming people person. Its such a contrast when you think about troubled heroes whose personality is tainted by cynicism and mistrust. Not that Harry wasn't all that too, but he really had charisma and joy that radiated whatever he was.
Dizzy.. hmm well she has been an outcast in her own way. She is this prodigy child that was valued for what she knew and represented,rather for what she was. Naturally she strives for normalcy,and that plays an important part in the plot.She has always been in love with Harry, but never understands why she cant win his love. She has an incredible mature personality however,she shoulders a lot of responsibilities making her so much more humane. That doesn't stop her from getting in mischief every every other time.. and for Harry to always follow her trace like a vigilant sentinel.
their romance is so special because they are already in love from the beginning.. so its beautiful to see how this relationship morphs beautifully.
The secondary characters were surprisingly pleasant and very real. they are not black and white. there are not "evil" villains with conniving plans.They are just people with their own share of struggles that see the easy way out by blaming their misery in the better ppl.
Now, the prose! OK.! Brockway was incredibly amazing incorporating pharaohs and their romantic scriptures! they were incredible pieces of poetry.. the way she blended all this elements in one book was just worthy of my lengthy review LOL! but it truly is an amazing read!
ps: I would never get over that last scene... it was the sweetest love making i have read..
January 14, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Excellent stuff - great sense of place, and well-rounded characters. Couple of minor quibbles, but nothing that stopped me gobbling this up in an evening.
OK - full review. First and foremost, I enjoyed it a lot, cared about the H&h and will certainly read it again. BUT, I've been thinking about this one quite a bit since I read it, and though I loved H&h, it doesn't quite make DIK grade because the rest of the book doesn't support them enough.
For me there are three main elements to a story - the characters, the plot, and the place /atmosphere / background. And in the very best books, they'll intertwine and the plot will be driven by the characters, who will be influenced by the background etc etc. What's a bit odd about As You Desire is that the characters and their trajectory had almost nothing to do with the plot. The background was just that - a background, and, while it was interesting (1890s Cairo is never going to be boring), it wasn't entirely necessary (except in the sense it was freer environment than England).
Harry and Desdemona have been circling round each other for years: Their gradual opening up to each other is a delight, particularly the glimpses we get of Harry's deeper feelings. Their banter is pitch-perfect, and the HEA feels well-deserved (perhaps a little rushed).
But the plot - just never comes together. Any one of those strands could be dropped and it wouldn't make much difference to how Harry & Desdemona's relationship developed. TBH, I'm not even certain that all those elements were actually resolved.
There are some interesting secondary characters - Harry's supercilious cousin And Harry's former lover, Marta, Connie Brockway does characters so well, in fact, that these two are slightly in danger of skewing the story.
I think, though, when you read the book (and you should - it's good!), you'll not bother about its weaknesses. I'm just off now to find The Other Guy's Bride about Harry & Desdemona's daughter.
Excellent stuff - great sense of place, and well-rounded characters. Couple of minor quibbles, but nothing that stopped me gobbling this up in an evening.
OK - full review. First and foremost, I enjoyed it a lot, cared about the H&h and will certainly read it again. BUT, I've been thinking about this one quite a bit since I read it, and though I loved H&h, it doesn't quite make DIK grade because the rest of the book doesn't support them enough.
For me there are three main elements to a story - the characters, the plot, and the place /atmosphere / background. And in the very best books, they'll intertwine and the plot will be driven by the characters, who will be influenced by the background etc etc. What's a bit odd about As You Desire is that the characters and their trajectory had almost nothing to do with the plot. The background was just that - a background, and, while it was interesting (1890s Cairo is never going to be boring), it wasn't entirely necessary (except in the sense it was freer environment than England).
Harry and Desdemona have been circling round each other for years: Their gradual opening up to each other is a delight, particularly the glimpses we get of Harry's deeper feelings. Their banter is pitch-perfect, and the HEA feels well-deserved (perhaps a little rushed).
But the plot - just never comes together. Any one of those strands could be dropped and it wouldn't make much difference to how Harry & Desdemona's relationship developed. TBH, I'm not even certain that all those elements were actually resolved.
There are some interesting secondary characters - Harry's supercilious cousin And Harry's former lover, Marta, Connie Brockway does characters so well, in fact, that these two are slightly in danger of skewing the story.
I think, though, when you read the book (and you should - it's good!), you'll not bother about its weaknesses. I'm just off now to find The Other Guy's Bride about Harry & Desdemona's daughter.
March 10, 2011
When we first meet Desdemona Carlisle she's bored, bound, a bit tipsy on fermented milk and awaiting the auctioning block. She's an Englishwoman and has been abducted by an overzealous young Arab. A romantic, Desdemona begins to fantasize about how exciting it might be to bought by a desert Prince. Then opportunist Harry Braxton shows up to save her hide. She can't believe her rotten luck and tells him, "If you bought me I'll kill you!".
Thus begins this truly fun, character driven, adventurous read. We soon find out why Dizzy (as Harry so charmingly calls her) is so disappointed with her savior. He is the scoundrel who broke her heart several years earlier. Unable to avoid each other (he's an archeologist often in need of Dizzy's translation skills) they have forged a platonic friendship.
Dizzy never had a childhood. A child prodigy, her parents forced her to study languages and traveled around the world to show off her talents. When her parents died her Egyptologist Grandfather brought her to Cairo and she has been eking out a living using her language skills. Her fondest dream is living a normal life in England but, unfortunately, she's broke.
She loves Harry but will never allow him to hurt her again. When Harry's hunky, brooding cousin Lord Ravenscroft shows up in Egypt she realizes he may just be the perfect antidote to Harry. Blake is a boring, sensible, uptight fuddy-duddy. He's everything her head tells her she needs ~- if she could only convince her heart she'd be all set.
Harry (of course) loves Dizzy but he is unwilling to allow her to give up her dreams to make him happy so he pushes her away for her own good. He is hiding a painful secret that makes him feel inadequate and he will not return to England after his dreadful childhood. But when she starts making eyes at his priggish cousin he loses all sense of his faculties.
I don't want to give too much away of this irresistible story so I'll just say that these two have my vote for most lovable couple of the year! They compliment each other perfectly in every way. Harry is a wonderfully original wounded hero. He's a man man enough to admit his love (there's no annoying denial of feelings going on with this guy!), shed a few tears, and face down a madman for the woman he loves. Dizzy (despire her name) is intelligent, strong, funny and she reads erotic scrolls when no one is looking. She's a romantic and a heroine the reader can easily relate to. These two people are so real they leap off the page and the hot desert sun is the perfect back drop for the super steamy tension they create.
Thus begins this truly fun, character driven, adventurous read. We soon find out why Dizzy (as Harry so charmingly calls her) is so disappointed with her savior. He is the scoundrel who broke her heart several years earlier. Unable to avoid each other (he's an archeologist often in need of Dizzy's translation skills) they have forged a platonic friendship.
Dizzy never had a childhood. A child prodigy, her parents forced her to study languages and traveled around the world to show off her talents. When her parents died her Egyptologist Grandfather brought her to Cairo and she has been eking out a living using her language skills. Her fondest dream is living a normal life in England but, unfortunately, she's broke.
She loves Harry but will never allow him to hurt her again. When Harry's hunky, brooding cousin Lord Ravenscroft shows up in Egypt she realizes he may just be the perfect antidote to Harry. Blake is a boring, sensible, uptight fuddy-duddy. He's everything her head tells her she needs ~- if she could only convince her heart she'd be all set.
Harry (of course) loves Dizzy but he is unwilling to allow her to give up her dreams to make him happy so he pushes her away for her own good. He is hiding a painful secret that makes him feel inadequate and he will not return to England after his dreadful childhood. But when she starts making eyes at his priggish cousin he loses all sense of his faculties.
I don't want to give too much away of this irresistible story so I'll just say that these two have my vote for most lovable couple of the year! They compliment each other perfectly in every way. Harry is a wonderfully original wounded hero. He's a man man enough to admit his love (there's no annoying denial of feelings going on with this guy!), shed a few tears, and face down a madman for the woman he loves. Dizzy (despire her name) is intelligent, strong, funny and she reads erotic scrolls when no one is looking. She's a romantic and a heroine the reader can easily relate to. These two people are so real they leap off the page and the hot desert sun is the perfect back drop for the super steamy tension they create.
May 16, 2016
4.5 Stars. This was a great example of everything I look for in HR. It was a joy to read from beginning to end. Harry definitely makes the list of my favorite male leads, and while Desdemona wasn't my absolute favorite, she had likeable qualities and was understandable. I did like that she was very intelligent and gifted at languages; she took a few unnecessary risks, but I wouldn't qualify her as TSTL. Harry was just wonderful- rugged, handsome, smart, witty, loyal, honest....pretty much everything you look for in an H in HR. The Victorian Egyptian setting and action/adventure really makes for a fun read, and I drew quite a few parallels to my favorite Loretta Chase, Mr. Impossible. (I would still say that one comes out on top, but I liked this a lot.) There was a decent amount of misunderstanding between Harry and Dizzy- they seemed to never be in the same place with their feelings until the end, but that made for a nice progression to the end of the book. I thought this was paced well, plotted out in way that kept my interest, and definitely had some cute moments. Blake was a good "red herring" hero that wasn't, and he made for an interesting dynamic between the cousins. The epilogue was perfect. I don't know what else to say- this was really good, and I would highly recommend it!
Two nitpicky points- This had a lot of typos (Kindle edition), and the word "insouciant" was overused in the first half of the book.
Two nitpicky points- This had a lot of typos (Kindle edition), and the word "insouciant" was overused in the first half of the book.
August 7, 2011
4.5 stars.
A straightforward and delightful read, it actually surprised me how much I enjoyed this book! It was the first HR I've read that was set in Egypt and I have to admit that I wasn't sure what to expect. I guess I was concerned that the cultural aspect of the setting would be overly descriptive and perhaps a little boring but instead I found it utterly entrancing. It allowed the characters a certain amount of freedom by not being restricted by English society and propriety and instead able to flourish.
Harry "you are my country" Braxton was a gorgeous and delicious hero. Neither fop nor rake, he oozed a devastatingly sexy strength and hypnotized me from the very beginning.
Desdemona (or Dizzy) Carlisle was a lovely, refreshing heroine who didn't play games and was bright and witty. She was incredibly smart and while her character was something of a prodigy, she didn't possess any arrogance or self-importance because of this.
There was just enough action and angst in this story, I never felt overwhelmed by drama even though part of the plot had a slightly suspenseful overtone. I loved Harry and Dizzy's friendship, it really was my favourite aspect of the story and I found it endearing that they were both quietly pining away for each other at the same time.
Gorgeous read and will definitely be a re-read down the track.
A straightforward and delightful read, it actually surprised me how much I enjoyed this book! It was the first HR I've read that was set in Egypt and I have to admit that I wasn't sure what to expect. I guess I was concerned that the cultural aspect of the setting would be overly descriptive and perhaps a little boring but instead I found it utterly entrancing. It allowed the characters a certain amount of freedom by not being restricted by English society and propriety and instead able to flourish.
Harry "you are my country" Braxton was a gorgeous and delicious hero. Neither fop nor rake, he oozed a devastatingly sexy strength and hypnotized me from the very beginning.
Desdemona (or Dizzy) Carlisle was a lovely, refreshing heroine who didn't play games and was bright and witty. She was incredibly smart and while her character was something of a prodigy, she didn't possess any arrogance or self-importance because of this.
There was just enough action and angst in this story, I never felt overwhelmed by drama even though part of the plot had a slightly suspenseful overtone. I loved Harry and Dizzy's friendship, it really was my favourite aspect of the story and I found it endearing that they were both quietly pining away for each other at the same time.
Gorgeous read and will definitely be a re-read down the track.
April 17, 2017
This book really could have been better. I liked it well enough, was a very sweet story and Harry oh Harry so heartbreaklingly heroic. (I really do seemt o have a thing for guys named Harry.) Dizzy is alright, I don't particularly like her nor do I dislike her. It is Harry who made this story great.
But something is missing. I don't know exactly what. I am sorry this is a rather useless review. I wish I could pinpoint why this book did not get a 5 stars from me because I really liked it. I did not connect emotionally, that's why. But why was I not emotionally connected....beats the hell out of me.
But I do recommend this book. Plots are good. Harry is so charming and Dizzy is a sweet heroine. The Egypt backdrop is great, very refreshing. Writing is good too. See? I cannot tell you why I did not love it to pieces. Maybe you would have better luck.
But something is missing. I don't know exactly what. I am sorry this is a rather useless review. I wish I could pinpoint why this book did not get a 5 stars from me because I really liked it. I did not connect emotionally, that's why. But why was I not emotionally connected....beats the hell out of me.
But I do recommend this book. Plots are good. Harry is so charming and Dizzy is a sweet heroine. The Egypt backdrop is great, very refreshing. Writing is good too. See? I cannot tell you why I did not love it to pieces. Maybe you would have better luck.
July 18, 2024
I have been sleeping on Connie Brockway. This is my second book by her and I love her style. She is talented craftsman with the words. Plus she seems to be almost self aware of romance cliches as she writes.
I have to split the rating of this book into two parts:
5 stars for the love story. The romance, chemistry, tension, cuteness, beautiful poetry was all there.
I love this description of melting the boundaries of two bodies. This when they are still only friends but she can’t help her attraction to him.
“She had, he realized, lost all concept of personal boundaries between them. It was as if she no longer recognized where her body left off and his began. She was touching him as familiarly as she would her own person, casually—shatteringly casually. “
And little later
“He went absolutely still, unwilling to do anything to remind her they were separate beings, that his body was not hers to touch and use and handle in any way she desired.”
I read romance books for the romance in them and this was a beautiful example.
The setting in Egypt was a huge plus.
The plot though I give only 3 stars. Desdemona sold as a slave at the beginning of the book and that turns out to be a mistake when she saved by Harry. Luckily the rest of the book has nothing to do with slavery but I found that opening misleading. The setting is 19th century Egypt being colonized by the British who are all hungry for Egyptian antiquities.
However the plot was not so bad, author tried to come up with fresh new ways to tie the bow so to speak.
I’ll be checking out more of CB books
I have to split the rating of this book into two parts:
5 stars for the love story. The romance, chemistry, tension, cuteness, beautiful poetry was all there.
I love this description of melting the boundaries of two bodies. This when they are still only friends but she can’t help her attraction to him.
“She had, he realized, lost all concept of personal boundaries between them. It was as if she no longer recognized where her body left off and his began. She was touching him as familiarly as she would her own person, casually—shatteringly casually. “
And little later
“He went absolutely still, unwilling to do anything to remind her they were separate beings, that his body was not hers to touch and use and handle in any way she desired.”
I read romance books for the romance in them and this was a beautiful example.
The setting in Egypt was a huge plus.
The plot though I give only 3 stars. Desdemona sold as a slave at the beginning of the book and that turns out to be a mistake when she saved by Harry. Luckily the rest of the book has nothing to do with slavery but I found that opening misleading. The setting is 19th century Egypt being colonized by the British who are all hungry for Egyptian antiquities.
However the plot was not so bad, author tried to come up with fresh new ways to tie the bow so to speak.
I’ll be checking out more of CB books
March 31, 2011
I kind of enjoyed this one. It wasn't a struggle to finish it, and there was nothing really irritating about it, and I did enjoy the Egyptian setting, but it didn't really engage me particularly.
Both the hero and heroine are good characters, with flaws and the attraction between them is credible, also their secrets are actually pretty good, and, particularly the hero's, would have been incredibly embarrassing during that era.
The setting was fabulous, and made me think of Death on the Nile, apart from the death bit.
Some of the secondary characters I also liked, particularly the heroine's grandfather and her housekeeper, but, I'll be honest, there were too many of them, introduced too quickly, and with not enough detail. A couple of them play crucial roles in the plot, but are little more than Agatha Christie characatures. The hero and heroine were quite well-balanced people, but most of the secondary characters were not, and that felt a bit odd to me.
Also, some of the major plot lines were resolved far too quickly for me, were left until the epilogue to resolve, or were unconvincing. The heroine spends the whole book focused on getting back to England, and yet within the course of one paragraph is perfectly willing to walk away from what has been her raison d'etre for years, with very little explanation or even thought. Similarly, I felt the conflict between the hero and his cousin wasn't convincing. I couldn't figure out why they stayed enemies, or why a reconciliation wasn't forthcoming.
So, it was OK and a nice read. I'll definitely read more by this author since I did like the way it was set-up, and it had some nice touches, and, well, I've read much worse than this. For a great romance set in Victorian Egypt I much preferred
, by Loretta Chase.
3 stars. It was OK/I liked it.
Both the hero and heroine are good characters, with flaws and the attraction between them is credible, also their secrets are actually pretty good, and, particularly the hero's, would have been incredibly embarrassing during that era.
The setting was fabulous, and made me think of Death on the Nile, apart from the death bit.
Some of the secondary characters I also liked, particularly the heroine's grandfather and her housekeeper, but, I'll be honest, there were too many of them, introduced too quickly, and with not enough detail. A couple of them play crucial roles in the plot, but are little more than Agatha Christie characatures. The hero and heroine were quite well-balanced people, but most of the secondary characters were not, and that felt a bit odd to me.
Also, some of the major plot lines were resolved far too quickly for me, were left until the epilogue to resolve, or were unconvincing. The heroine spends the whole book focused on getting back to England, and yet within the course of one paragraph is perfectly willing to walk away from what has been her raison d'etre for years, with very little explanation or even thought. Similarly, I felt the conflict between the hero and his cousin wasn't convincing. I couldn't figure out why they stayed enemies, or why a reconciliation wasn't forthcoming.
So, it was OK and a nice read. I'll definitely read more by this author since I did like the way it was set-up, and it had some nice touches, and, well, I've read much worse than this. For a great romance set in Victorian Egypt I much preferred
, by Loretta Chase.3 stars. It was OK/I liked it.
August 31, 2020
Bueno este libro ya contaba con una cosa en su contra nada más comenzar: y es que personalmente odio las tramas ambientadas en Egipto durante el expolio masivo que hizo Inglaterra allí. Me pone muy nerviosa y ya no puedo mirar con buenos ojos la obra, porque fue absolutamente despreciable lo que hicieron en este milenario país.
Si a eso le sumamos que tanto Desdémona como harry me han parecido muy cliché... pues tengo que reconocer que su historia no está mal, no es machista, ni te saca de tus casillas. cierto. pero es que tampoco me ha aportado nada. No he disfrutado especialmente con su amor, ni con sus escenas, ni con las tramas de fondo. Me ha parecido que no está mal contado, pero es que incluso había momentos en que hablaban de cosas históricas en que había fallos impresionantes, pero no sé si era porque entonces no se conocía bien eso -por lo tanto la autora ponía lo que se pensaba entonces, igualmente me daban ganas de zurrar a los ingleses- o eran fallos literales de la obra en sí, lo cual me parecería aún peor. No sé, no es un libro para mí.
Si a eso le sumamos que tanto Desdémona como harry me han parecido muy cliché... pues tengo que reconocer que su historia no está mal, no es machista, ni te saca de tus casillas. cierto. pero es que tampoco me ha aportado nada. No he disfrutado especialmente con su amor, ni con sus escenas, ni con las tramas de fondo. Me ha parecido que no está mal contado, pero es que incluso había momentos en que hablaban de cosas históricas en que había fallos impresionantes, pero no sé si era porque entonces no se conocía bien eso -por lo tanto la autora ponía lo que se pensaba entonces, igualmente me daban ganas de zurrar a los ingleses- o eran fallos literales de la obra en sí, lo cual me parecería aún peor. No sé, no es un libro para mí.
October 21, 2017
What a fun read with such an unusual setting: Egypt. I took off 1 star because the heroine took stupid chances and was very naive.
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