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The Beloved Scoundrel
Now, from nationally best-selling Iris Johansen comes a thrilling tale of abduction, seduction, and surrender that sweeps from the shimmering halls of Regency England to the decadent haunts of a notorious rogue...
She was a hostage torn between passion and loyalty...
Marianna Sanders realized she could not trust this dark and savagely seductive stranger who had come to spirit her away across the sea. She possessed a secret that could topple an empire, a secret that Jordan Draken, the duke of Cambaron, was determined to wrest from her. In the eyes of the world the arrogant duke was her guardian, but they both knew she was to be a prisoner in his sinister plot—and a slave to his exquisite pleasure.
He was the fabulous rake they called the Duke of Diamonds...
For years, brilliant, deadly Jordan Draken had schemed to destroy the emperor who threatened everything he valued most in the world. Now that he held this defiant woman who was the key to his final triumph, he felt a fierce sense of satisfaction...and the first stirring of desire. She was only supposed to be a pawn in his plans, but once alone with his captive, Jordan realized she was a prize he could never surrender.
She was a hostage torn between passion and loyalty...
Marianna Sanders realized she could not trust this dark and savagely seductive stranger who had come to spirit her away across the sea. She possessed a secret that could topple an empire, a secret that Jordan Draken, the duke of Cambaron, was determined to wrest from her. In the eyes of the world the arrogant duke was her guardian, but they both knew she was to be a prisoner in his sinister plot—and a slave to his exquisite pleasure.
He was the fabulous rake they called the Duke of Diamonds...
For years, brilliant, deadly Jordan Draken had schemed to destroy the emperor who threatened everything he valued most in the world. Now that he held this defiant woman who was the key to his final triumph, he felt a fierce sense of satisfaction...and the first stirring of desire. She was only supposed to be a pawn in his plans, but once alone with his captive, Jordan realized she was a prize he could never surrender.
437 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
105 people are currently reading
1314 people want to read
About the author
Iris Johansen
227 books7,342 followersIris Johansen is a New York Times bestselling author. She began her writing after her children left home for college. She first achieved success in the early 1980s writing category romances. In 1991, Johansen began writing suspense historical romance novels, starting with the publication of The Wind Dancer. In 1996 Johansen switched genres, turning to crime fiction, with which she has had great success.
She lives in Georgia and is married. Her son, Roy Johansen, is an Edgar Award-winning screenwriter and novelist. Her daughter, Tamara, serves as her research assistant.
IRIS JOHANSEN is The New York Times bestselling author of Night and Day, Hide Away, Shadow Play, Your Next Breath, The Perfect Witness, Live to See Tomorrow, Silencing Eve, Hunting Eve, Taking Eve, Sleep No More, What Doesn't Kill You, Bonnie, Quinn, Eve, Chasing The Night, Eight Days to Live, Blood Game, Deadlock, Dark Summer, Pandora's Daughter, Quicksand, Killer Dreams, On The Run, and more. And with her son, Roy Johansen, she has coauthored Night Watch, The Naked Eye, Sight Unseen, Close Your Eyes, Shadow Zone, Storm Cycle, and Silent Thunder.
http://www.irisjohansen.com
She lives in Georgia and is married. Her son, Roy Johansen, is an Edgar Award-winning screenwriter and novelist. Her daughter, Tamara, serves as her research assistant.
IRIS JOHANSEN is The New York Times bestselling author of Night and Day, Hide Away, Shadow Play, Your Next Breath, The Perfect Witness, Live to See Tomorrow, Silencing Eve, Hunting Eve, Taking Eve, Sleep No More, What Doesn't Kill You, Bonnie, Quinn, Eve, Chasing The Night, Eight Days to Live, Blood Game, Deadlock, Dark Summer, Pandora's Daughter, Quicksand, Killer Dreams, On The Run, and more. And with her son, Roy Johansen, she has coauthored Night Watch, The Naked Eye, Sight Unseen, Close Your Eyes, Shadow Zone, Storm Cycle, and Silent Thunder.
http://www.irisjohansen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 18, 2022
Good as always! This story has a great adventure with the MC having fantastic chemistry.
This is a favorite reread when I'm in a slump!
This is a favorite reread when I'm in a slump!
June 14, 2023
First, I have to tell you, Iris Johansen is another author whom, in the past, I ate up everything written by her. Loved her intense heroes and loved the way the author expressed the hero's need of the heroine.
I remember lapping this one up the first time I read it and even the second time! This time, I had a tough time with it.
The hero falls in lust with the heroine when she’s sixteen and though they never give his age, I’m guessing to be thirties. (In real life? ugh) Granted he doesn’t act on the lust until she’s “of age”, but seriously. ugh.
I have to give that I still loved the heroine. Marianna is strong, driven, and not given to submit easily. In the end she's a great match for The Duke of Diamonds, but the problem is getting past the beginning.
When I look back, I realize I was fairly young when I read these books the first time. I wasn’t as jaded and accepted the fantasy, because to not accept it, was to not accept some of my favorite authors.
My how things have changed.
Still, it's a good story. Way better than some of the boring crap out there right now in the hist/rom genre. just sayin
I remember lapping this one up the first time I read it and even the second time! This time, I had a tough time with it.
The hero falls in lust with the heroine when she’s sixteen and though they never give his age, I’m guessing to be thirties. (In real life? ugh) Granted he doesn’t act on the lust until she’s “of age”, but seriously. ugh.
I have to give that I still loved the heroine. Marianna is strong, driven, and not given to submit easily. In the end she's a great match for The Duke of Diamonds, but the problem is getting past the beginning.
When I look back, I realize I was fairly young when I read these books the first time. I wasn’t as jaded and accepted the fantasy, because to not accept it, was to not accept some of my favorite authors.
My how things have changed.
Still, it's a good story. Way better than some of the boring crap out there right now in the hist/rom genre. just sayin
August 4, 2010
Period: Georgian - Regency, England
The hero is referred as the Duke of Diamonds by the ton. Not only because he has the real bling bling mine, but also because he's notorious for his out-of-the-box way in pleasing his lovers. Yes, it's something to do with diamonds, obviously. I was a bit stunned, then laughed for it sounds quite ridiculous.
Apart from that, Ms. Johansen imparted some wisdom here. Age-old or clichè they may sound, but leave something to be pondered upon none the less.
1. "Paradise leaves an occasional mark upon those who taste its pleasures."
2. "You don't desert your old friends when new ones come."
3. "I've found if you expect miracles, they have a tendency to occur."
4. "You should never be sorry for fools. It only encourages them never to seek wisdom."
5. "You see beauty because you see love."
6. "...someday, when you give up your guilt and come to terms with yourself, you will be able to give it." [they were talking about giving and accepting a more important place in one's life:]
7. "When I'm hurt, I have a tendency to strike out blindly."
"Then I'll find your conduct unacceptable. ... But I won't find you unacceptable. Not ever."
These are why I gave 4 stars.
The hero is referred as the Duke of Diamonds by the ton. Not only because he has the real bling bling mine, but also because he's notorious for his out-of-the-box way in pleasing his lovers. Yes, it's something to do with diamonds, obviously. I was a bit stunned, then laughed for it sounds quite ridiculous.
Apart from that, Ms. Johansen imparted some wisdom here. Age-old or clichè they may sound, but leave something to be pondered upon none the less.
1. "Paradise leaves an occasional mark upon those who taste its pleasures."
2. "You don't desert your old friends when new ones come."
3. "I've found if you expect miracles, they have a tendency to occur."
4. "You should never be sorry for fools. It only encourages them never to seek wisdom."
5. "You see beauty because you see love."
6. "...someday, when you give up your guilt and come to terms with yourself, you will be able to give it." [they were talking about giving and accepting a more important place in one's life:]
7. "When I'm hurt, I have a tendency to strike out blindly."
"Then I'll find your conduct unacceptable. ... But I won't find you unacceptable. Not ever."
These are why I gave 4 stars.
February 24, 2012
19th Century Balkan Romance - A Great One!
I first discovered Iris Johansen when I read The Magnificent Rogue--a truly excellent historical romance. I then read Midnight Warrior that didn't reach that standard (and reviewed it as such). I say that so you know I don't always give her 5 stars. But I just don't understand the low reviews on this one. I thought it was excellent.
Set in the years 1809 to 1812 in the Barkans and England, it tells the story of Marianna Sanders who is from a Balkan family in which the women for generations have preserved the fine are of stained glass that captures the sun and the heart. Her grandmother's stained glass windows graced some of the most beautiful chapels in Eastern Europe. Her mother was gifted as well and Marianna's early talent portends greatness from her. Born to loving parents, at 16, the young fair haired beauty and her 4 year old brother Alex are orphaned when her mother is killed by the evil Duke of Nebrov who wanted the secret of the Jedalar, a map contained within the Window to Heaven, a large stained glass window that graced the church in Montavia her native country in the Balkans. Alone and starving, Marianna and Alex go to the church only to find the precious window shattered by Nebrov's attack. There in the church she encounters Jordan Draken the English Duke of Cambaron who has mysterious ties to the Balkans and has come to the church hoping to obtain the window. When he realizes who Marianna is, he lures her to his camp and decides to take her to England. Soon Marianna is desired by Jordan not only for her ability to recreate the Window to Heaven and give him the Jedalar but also because he is wildly attracted to the intelligent and beautiful young woman who beats him at chess and banters with him unlike the boring women he has often had in his bed. Hunted by Nebrov and pursued by Jordan, Marianna has to survive on her wits and her talents--and she does. For three years she and Alex live at Cambaron where she designs windows of stained glass for the old castle and during that time she is protected from the desire of Jordan by Gregor, a gentle giant of a man who has guided Jordan into doing what is right by Marianna.
I liked the characters and thought Johansen did a masterful job of developing them. Jordan was a man who, like his father before him, engaged in a life of debauchery until he found a greater purpose in saving a Balkan kingdom from Napoleon. Marianna was an amazing girl and then a young woman who had incredible strength of character. She was courageous, unselfish, caring and committed to the promise she had made to her mother concerning the Jedalar. The love between her and Jordan grows slowly and each hides that truth deep inside even as they cannot deny the passion raging between them. There is a wonderful side story of the love between Gregor and a woman named Ana (who comes in later in the story) that adds a richness to the ending. The historical times are well portrayed and the action flowed continually. It was a page turner and held my interest. I recommend it as one of Johansen's good historical novels. Well worth the read.
I first discovered Iris Johansen when I read The Magnificent Rogue--a truly excellent historical romance. I then read Midnight Warrior that didn't reach that standard (and reviewed it as such). I say that so you know I don't always give her 5 stars. But I just don't understand the low reviews on this one. I thought it was excellent.
Set in the years 1809 to 1812 in the Barkans and England, it tells the story of Marianna Sanders who is from a Balkan family in which the women for generations have preserved the fine are of stained glass that captures the sun and the heart. Her grandmother's stained glass windows graced some of the most beautiful chapels in Eastern Europe. Her mother was gifted as well and Marianna's early talent portends greatness from her. Born to loving parents, at 16, the young fair haired beauty and her 4 year old brother Alex are orphaned when her mother is killed by the evil Duke of Nebrov who wanted the secret of the Jedalar, a map contained within the Window to Heaven, a large stained glass window that graced the church in Montavia her native country in the Balkans. Alone and starving, Marianna and Alex go to the church only to find the precious window shattered by Nebrov's attack. There in the church she encounters Jordan Draken the English Duke of Cambaron who has mysterious ties to the Balkans and has come to the church hoping to obtain the window. When he realizes who Marianna is, he lures her to his camp and decides to take her to England. Soon Marianna is desired by Jordan not only for her ability to recreate the Window to Heaven and give him the Jedalar but also because he is wildly attracted to the intelligent and beautiful young woman who beats him at chess and banters with him unlike the boring women he has often had in his bed. Hunted by Nebrov and pursued by Jordan, Marianna has to survive on her wits and her talents--and she does. For three years she and Alex live at Cambaron where she designs windows of stained glass for the old castle and during that time she is protected from the desire of Jordan by Gregor, a gentle giant of a man who has guided Jordan into doing what is right by Marianna.
I liked the characters and thought Johansen did a masterful job of developing them. Jordan was a man who, like his father before him, engaged in a life of debauchery until he found a greater purpose in saving a Balkan kingdom from Napoleon. Marianna was an amazing girl and then a young woman who had incredible strength of character. She was courageous, unselfish, caring and committed to the promise she had made to her mother concerning the Jedalar. The love between her and Jordan grows slowly and each hides that truth deep inside even as they cannot deny the passion raging between them. There is a wonderful side story of the love between Gregor and a woman named Ana (who comes in later in the story) that adds a richness to the ending. The historical times are well portrayed and the action flowed continually. It was a page turner and held my interest. I recommend it as one of Johansen's good historical novels. Well worth the read.
February 7, 2017
One of my all time favorites by Iris Johansen. Great if you're in the mood for a dark historical romance.
August 26, 2017
I give this one props for being so different then the usual historical romance.
December 10, 2017
Qui l'impresa di salvare qualcosa è davvero molto difficile.
Essendo un Introvabile, posso pensare che ai suoi tempi sia piaciuto molto. Oggi risulta un polpettone lunghissimo e pesante da digerire.
Inizio col dire che non mi è piaciuto per niente che l'autrice insistesse con l'età sedicenne della protagonista e con il Duca dei Diamanti che ogni due pagine ha un violento attacco di lussuria e vorrebbe concupire la nostra (sempre giustificato dall'autrice che ci ricorda che in quelle terre a sedici anni sono già donne e madri...). E allora? Il romanzo è per lettrici di oggi e io trovo urticante che questo tizio, navigato e maturo, volesse farsi la ragazzina orfana con fratellino appresso ogni 2x3.
E poi ovviamente lei è una tentazione vivente, anche se non si capisce come. E' saccente, noiosa, e si sente irraggiungibile in quanto depositaria di chissà che tradizione...
Poi la trama risulta incoerente, se solo si pensa che questi vanno avanti e indietro per l'Europa, tra Russia e Mediterraneo, mentre infuriano guerre napoleoniche e certo non c'erano i comodi collegamenti aerei di oggi. Sembra quasi che l'autrice volesse creare qualcosa di originale, salvo poi dover fare a tutti costi un passaggio per l'Inghilterra, perchè se lui non era un Duca (wow) e non aveva una magione ancestrale (wow) il romanzo non era abbastanza accattivante.
Da ultimo, il fatto che lui colga il fiore di lei in ogni angolo, salvo sposarsi all'ultima pagina (spoiler) me lo ha reso ancor meno galantuomo e più fastidioso.
Essendo un Introvabile, posso pensare che ai suoi tempi sia piaciuto molto. Oggi risulta un polpettone lunghissimo e pesante da digerire.
Inizio col dire che non mi è piaciuto per niente che l'autrice insistesse con l'età sedicenne della protagonista e con il Duca dei Diamanti che ogni due pagine ha un violento attacco di lussuria e vorrebbe concupire la nostra (sempre giustificato dall'autrice che ci ricorda che in quelle terre a sedici anni sono già donne e madri...). E allora? Il romanzo è per lettrici di oggi e io trovo urticante che questo tizio, navigato e maturo, volesse farsi la ragazzina orfana con fratellino appresso ogni 2x3.
E poi ovviamente lei è una tentazione vivente, anche se non si capisce come. E' saccente, noiosa, e si sente irraggiungibile in quanto depositaria di chissà che tradizione...
Poi la trama risulta incoerente, se solo si pensa che questi vanno avanti e indietro per l'Europa, tra Russia e Mediterraneo, mentre infuriano guerre napoleoniche e certo non c'erano i comodi collegamenti aerei di oggi. Sembra quasi che l'autrice volesse creare qualcosa di originale, salvo poi dover fare a tutti costi un passaggio per l'Inghilterra, perchè se lui non era un Duca (wow) e non aveva una magione ancestrale (wow) il romanzo non era abbastanza accattivante.
Da ultimo, il fatto che lui colga il fiore di lei in ogni angolo, salvo sposarsi all'ultima pagina (spoiler) me lo ha reso ancor meno galantuomo e più fastidioso.
January 1, 2013
Nice story with a likeable hero and heroine.
I must say I have trouble engaging emotionally in Iris Johansen's books, which means I forget what I read a day or two later. I feel distant while reading one of her books, more like I'm watching a movie.
I must say I have trouble engaging emotionally in Iris Johansen's books, which means I forget what I read a day or two later. I feel distant while reading one of her books, more like I'm watching a movie.
August 8, 2022
3.5
I read this awhile back and loved it. This time not so much.
I read this awhile back and loved it. This time not so much.
August 23, 2015
I've had this ebook for quite sometime, and I kept delaying to read it because some of negative reviews I've seen.
But I got curious after reading the positive reviews especially those who gave this book five stars. Now I'm glad, because this book just great.
What interested me almost immediately was the way Jordan and Marianna interacted, how they matched wit to wit. I loved Jordan's dry humor and Marianna strong personality.
And the seduction was hot! I may find it ruthless (did I just use the word ruthless? Have I finally reading too much Harlequin? Nah, there's no such thing as too much Harlequin) and off putting if I didn't think Mariana could handle it. A lesser woman would immediately dropped her panties the moment Jordan flick his queued hair, but not Marianna. She put a good fight and still had her way at the moment of surrender.
To some, her age (16 yo) when Jordan started to lust after her may seemed disturbing but the setting was early 1800, so it's not unusual for a girl of her age, even younger, was considered woman enough to receive men's attention. And to Jordan's credit, he didn't act on his lust until Marianna was 19 yo. For once I can see why this hero didn't celibate for the heroine, because for Jordan to suddenly pining over her and stopped his bedroom activity before he acknowledge his feeling for Mariana was more than just lust would be so out of character of him I wouldn't have believed it.
And the side characters were great too. I adored Gregor. And I feel the tragic of Dorothy, don't we all sometimes still trapped in the rules we thought we've freed of? Ana and Alex were also well developed.
Even the background story of not-quite-historical was engaging.
All in all it's a great read, and now I need to buy a chair for my workroom.
But I got curious after reading the positive reviews especially those who gave this book five stars. Now I'm glad, because this book just great.
What interested me almost immediately was the way Jordan and Marianna interacted, how they matched wit to wit. I loved Jordan's dry humor and Marianna strong personality.
And the seduction was hot! I may find it ruthless (did I just use the word ruthless? Have I finally reading too much Harlequin? Nah, there's no such thing as too much Harlequin) and off putting if I didn't think Mariana could handle it. A lesser woman would immediately dropped her panties the moment Jordan flick his queued hair, but not Marianna. She put a good fight and still had her way at the moment of surrender.
To some, her age (16 yo) when Jordan started to lust after her may seemed disturbing but the setting was early 1800, so it's not unusual for a girl of her age, even younger, was considered woman enough to receive men's attention. And to Jordan's credit, he didn't act on his lust until Marianna was 19 yo. For once I can see why this hero didn't celibate for the heroine, because for Jordan to suddenly pining over her and stopped his bedroom activity before he acknowledge his feeling for Mariana was more than just lust would be so out of character of him I wouldn't have believed it.
And the side characters were great too. I adored Gregor. And I feel the tragic of Dorothy, don't we all sometimes still trapped in the rules we thought we've freed of? Ana and Alex were also well developed.
Even the background story of not-quite-historical was engaging.
All in all it's a great read, and now I need to buy a chair for my workroom.
June 29, 2013
Decent plot driven story.
The heroine is a shrew. The only emotions I remember her displaying were jealousy, anger and lust. She makes stained glass windows and is devoted to her work. There's this thing called a Jondolar (not sure I spelled that correctly) that she is sworn to protect. When she mentioned she was not certain if she was "old enough to wield it", I thought it was some type of magical weapon. Turns out (two-thirds into the story), it's a map, made from stained glass.
I was disappointed to say the least. I mean, how does one wield a map? And why did I have to wait so long to find out just what the thing was?
The hero lacks charm. He's hard, spoiled, and without empathy. He takes everything seriously. He too displayed a short list of emotions (lust, jealousy and anger).
The villain seeks the map. Her mother died protecting the secret. The original map was destroyed. So what does our intelligent heroine do? She makes a duplicate.
Yah know, if I had that type of secret, I wouldn't make another. I'd keep the information in my head as a way to buy time to be rescued just in case the bad guy came a knocking at my door - especially when it takes months to make a window from scratch. But our heroine decides she must have this particular spare stained-glass window on hand, for no particular reason mentioned.
Though set in the Regency era, the most interesting parts of the story take place in small made-up countries near Russia. I'm not certain if that makes this a regency romance or something completely different. The made-up countries gives this story a fairy tale quality.
The plot keeps the story interesting as does the side stories.
The heroine is a shrew. The only emotions I remember her displaying were jealousy, anger and lust. She makes stained glass windows and is devoted to her work. There's this thing called a Jondolar (not sure I spelled that correctly) that she is sworn to protect. When she mentioned she was not certain if she was "old enough to wield it", I thought it was some type of magical weapon. Turns out (two-thirds into the story), it's a map, made from stained glass.
I was disappointed to say the least. I mean, how does one wield a map? And why did I have to wait so long to find out just what the thing was?
The hero lacks charm. He's hard, spoiled, and without empathy. He takes everything seriously. He too displayed a short list of emotions (lust, jealousy and anger).
The villain seeks the map. Her mother died protecting the secret. The original map was destroyed. So what does our intelligent heroine do? She makes a duplicate.
Yah know, if I had that type of secret, I wouldn't make another. I'd keep the information in my head as a way to buy time to be rescued just in case the bad guy came a knocking at my door - especially when it takes months to make a window from scratch. But our heroine decides she must have this particular spare stained-glass window on hand, for no particular reason mentioned.
Though set in the Regency era, the most interesting parts of the story take place in small made-up countries near Russia. I'm not certain if that makes this a regency romance or something completely different. The made-up countries gives this story a fairy tale quality.
The plot keeps the story interesting as does the side stories.
December 31, 2015
Indicitive of 90's romances. Strong Alpha and disagreeable heroine who has no choice but to succomb.
I was really looking for something with the flare of Julie Garwood's historicals, and this wasn't it. Reminds me more of a Judith McNaught story without all the pretty exposition and angst - Iris Johansen is more whimsical or fantastical in setting and events.
I'll put it this way, I liked it well enough to try another book by her, but not well enough that I'd pick up a discount copy if I ran across it at half-price books.
I was really looking for something with the flare of Julie Garwood's historicals, and this wasn't it. Reminds me more of a Judith McNaught story without all the pretty exposition and angst - Iris Johansen is more whimsical or fantastical in setting and events.
I'll put it this way, I liked it well enough to try another book by her, but not well enough that I'd pick up a discount copy if I ran across it at half-price books.
January 29, 2014
This is the books that started me on Romance in general. I loved it and still have several copies. Never once could I get a bookplate or an autograph but I endeavor to keep trying. I just wanted to say Thank You, Ms Johansen. I have been in this industry for a while now and read almost everything that comes across my desk. I still keep comparing all the men to the "Duke of Diamonds".
August 16, 2012
Not one of the best regency novels I have read, but certainly not the worst.
I had a lot of issues with this book but since it's late, I'll sleep now and if I have enough strength to go back here again, I might as well give out a proper review.
I had a lot of issues with this book but since it's late, I'll sleep now and if I have enough strength to go back here again, I might as well give out a proper review.
January 7, 2017
This book was extremely well written and I fell inlove with Marianna. She was strong, wild and free. I Love when the main heroine is fierce and remarkable. Iris Johansen has stunned me again with her passion for writing.
off-tbr-and-into-wpb
June 1, 2015ebook g drive
November 2, 2020
Solid 4 stars. Good book. The story about the Jedalar was different and a little refreshing.
March 30, 2018
"Nessuna corporazione avrebbe accettato una donna nei propri ranghi; quella battaglia l’avevano già combattuta sia la mamma che la nonna. Se non c’era modo di guadagnarsi il pane con un lavoro artigianale, come avrebbero vissuto lei e Alex? Il Montavia era stato spogliato e defraudato delle proprie ricchezze dalla guerra provocata dal duca. La gente delle città che aveva incontrato lungo il viaggio da Samda stava lottando per sopravvivere e ricostruire la propria esistenza. Solo i ladri e le prostitute sembravano prosperare tra le rovine. Rabbrividì nel ricordare le donne truccate che aveva incontrato nelle città vendendo da Samda. Non sarebbe mai stata in grado di sopportare una simile vita. Certo che avrebbe potuto sopportarla. Per Alex. Ma soltanto come ultima risorsa, dopo aver fallito ogni altro mezzo a disposizione. Il Jedalar. Per tutta la vita le era stato insegnato che quando fosse venuto il momento di agire, avrebbe dovuto sfruttare il Jedalar. Sua madre si era assicurata che Marianna avesse memorizzato il segreto e il piano d’azione che doveva essere seguito."
Montavia, una piccola terra dei Balcani che confina col Kazan. Qui si sta disputando una guerra per il potere tra Re Josef e suo fratello, il duca di Nebrov. Nebrov ha messo a ferro e fuoco il paese, e anche se è stato momentaneamente sconfitto dal legittimo sovrano, durante la ritirata ha permesso violenze e saccheggi che hanno provato la popolazione. Ora si è nascosto e sta tentando di riorganizzarsi cercando un nuovo e potente alleato in Napoleone, che si sta preparando ad invadere la Russia e conquistare Mosca. Nebrov ha un solo modo per convincere Napoleone ad aiutarlo: scoprire il segreto che nasconde il Jedalar, una vetrata creata dal grande artista Pogani. Ma l’opera è distrutta, e l’unica a conoscenza del segreto è una ragazza di 16 anni che sta fuggendo con il suo fratellino. A trovarla, davanti alla vetrata distrutta, è un Duca inglese che sembra avere particolarmente a cuore le sorti di quella parte dei Balcani ed osteggia con tutto il cuore Napoleone: Jordan Draken, Duca di Cabaron, conosciuto come il Duca dei diamanti perché in gioventù era solito tenere in tasca sacchetti di questi monili da regalare alle amanti del momento. È giunto in Montavia proprio alla ricerca del Jedalar, e quando incontra Marianna pensa sia un segno del destino. È consapevole che la giovane potrebbe essere l’unica possibilità di venire a capo del mistero e, allettandola con la promessa di una vita migliore e la sicurezza per Alex il suo fratellino, la porta in Inghilterra, convinto che al momento giusto saprà convincerla, con le lusinghe o la seduzione, a rivelare tutto ciò che sa. Ma non ha fatto i conti con il carattere indomito della giovane, e mentre gli anni passano e la loro attrazione cresce sempre più, la minaccia di Napoleone si fa sempre più pressante, e Nebrov è pronto a fare la sua mossa per riprendersi Marianna.
Jordan Draken ha un passato dissoluto alle spalle. Diventato un Duca giovanissimo, ha passato i suoi primi anni alla ricerca del piacere fra donne e feste finché non ha scoperto un segreto accuratamente celato nella sua famiglia che lo ha fatto improvvisamente maturare, e per il quale è diventato di vitale importanza aiutare il piccolo paese del Kazan a non venire coinvolto nei piani di Napoleone. Quando incontra Marianna è subito follemente attratto da lei nonostante la giovane abbia solo 16 anni, e per questo, nei tre anni successivi, è sempre in viaggio e si tiene lontano da lei. È intrigato dal suo essere completamente diversa da tutte le donne: non è attratta dai gioielli, non ama le feste ne i vestiti. Ciò che adora è poter creare con il vetro le sue opere d’arte. Ed è per questo che, ormai convinto che Marianna non gli cederà mai il segreto senza lottare, Jordan decide che è giunto il momento della seduzione. Ma sarà la giovane a stregarlo, e si scoprirà incapace di mentirle. Marianna del resto ha sempre saputo quello che deve fare; sua madre e sua nonna l’hanno istruita tutta la vita, e nonostante ami Jordan, sa che ciò che si appresta a fare, renderà il Duca così furioso da chiudere ogni rapporto con lei, ma troppe sono le persone che soffrirebbero se lei si tirasse indietro.
È un libro con una trama estremamente corposa. Oltre ai due personaggi principali, ce ne sono altri che hanno una notevole importanza e che incontriamo durante la storia, tutti molto ben caratterizzati e con personalità davvero interessanti, specialmente Ana, che ricopre un ruolo estremamente importante per Jordan e che ha influito sul suo modo di vedere le donne e di rapportarsi all’amore. Ci sono scene di grande sensualità e all’epoca della sua prima uscita era considerato particolarmente erotico, ma ora, naturalmente, non rientra più nella categoria. Iris Johansen ha una scrittura molto bella e se non lo avete letto, è il caso di farci un pensiero, perché è uno storico di grande qualità.
Montavia, una piccola terra dei Balcani che confina col Kazan. Qui si sta disputando una guerra per il potere tra Re Josef e suo fratello, il duca di Nebrov. Nebrov ha messo a ferro e fuoco il paese, e anche se è stato momentaneamente sconfitto dal legittimo sovrano, durante la ritirata ha permesso violenze e saccheggi che hanno provato la popolazione. Ora si è nascosto e sta tentando di riorganizzarsi cercando un nuovo e potente alleato in Napoleone, che si sta preparando ad invadere la Russia e conquistare Mosca. Nebrov ha un solo modo per convincere Napoleone ad aiutarlo: scoprire il segreto che nasconde il Jedalar, una vetrata creata dal grande artista Pogani. Ma l’opera è distrutta, e l’unica a conoscenza del segreto è una ragazza di 16 anni che sta fuggendo con il suo fratellino. A trovarla, davanti alla vetrata distrutta, è un Duca inglese che sembra avere particolarmente a cuore le sorti di quella parte dei Balcani ed osteggia con tutto il cuore Napoleone: Jordan Draken, Duca di Cabaron, conosciuto come il Duca dei diamanti perché in gioventù era solito tenere in tasca sacchetti di questi monili da regalare alle amanti del momento. È giunto in Montavia proprio alla ricerca del Jedalar, e quando incontra Marianna pensa sia un segno del destino. È consapevole che la giovane potrebbe essere l’unica possibilità di venire a capo del mistero e, allettandola con la promessa di una vita migliore e la sicurezza per Alex il suo fratellino, la porta in Inghilterra, convinto che al momento giusto saprà convincerla, con le lusinghe o la seduzione, a rivelare tutto ciò che sa. Ma non ha fatto i conti con il carattere indomito della giovane, e mentre gli anni passano e la loro attrazione cresce sempre più, la minaccia di Napoleone si fa sempre più pressante, e Nebrov è pronto a fare la sua mossa per riprendersi Marianna.
Jordan Draken ha un passato dissoluto alle spalle. Diventato un Duca giovanissimo, ha passato i suoi primi anni alla ricerca del piacere fra donne e feste finché non ha scoperto un segreto accuratamente celato nella sua famiglia che lo ha fatto improvvisamente maturare, e per il quale è diventato di vitale importanza aiutare il piccolo paese del Kazan a non venire coinvolto nei piani di Napoleone. Quando incontra Marianna è subito follemente attratto da lei nonostante la giovane abbia solo 16 anni, e per questo, nei tre anni successivi, è sempre in viaggio e si tiene lontano da lei. È intrigato dal suo essere completamente diversa da tutte le donne: non è attratta dai gioielli, non ama le feste ne i vestiti. Ciò che adora è poter creare con il vetro le sue opere d’arte. Ed è per questo che, ormai convinto che Marianna non gli cederà mai il segreto senza lottare, Jordan decide che è giunto il momento della seduzione. Ma sarà la giovane a stregarlo, e si scoprirà incapace di mentirle. Marianna del resto ha sempre saputo quello che deve fare; sua madre e sua nonna l’hanno istruita tutta la vita, e nonostante ami Jordan, sa che ciò che si appresta a fare, renderà il Duca così furioso da chiudere ogni rapporto con lei, ma troppe sono le persone che soffrirebbero se lei si tirasse indietro.
È un libro con una trama estremamente corposa. Oltre ai due personaggi principali, ce ne sono altri che hanno una notevole importanza e che incontriamo durante la storia, tutti molto ben caratterizzati e con personalità davvero interessanti, specialmente Ana, che ricopre un ruolo estremamente importante per Jordan e che ha influito sul suo modo di vedere le donne e di rapportarsi all’amore. Ci sono scene di grande sensualità e all’epoca della sua prima uscita era considerato particolarmente erotico, ma ora, naturalmente, non rientra più nella categoria. Iris Johansen ha una scrittura molto bella e se non lo avete letto, è il caso di farci un pensiero, perché è uno storico di grande qualità.
July 15, 2025
why am i 🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲
i usually read the quick and dirty romance, and prefer when the MMC and FMC get together quickish (no insta love), and generally prefer for conflict that’s not directly related to the relationship to not be a huge part bc i get bored when there’s too much exposition on something COMPLETELY unrelated to the pair (MC romance i’m looking at you with your dumb club wars that only minimally involve the FMC at the very end with a kidnapping plot or some stupid miscommunication third act). while this book had a conflict that was outside of the relationship that involved politics (something that puts me right to sleep) it directly involved the two of them heavily and i was ended up really enjoying this
firstly, the FMC was wonderfully characterized. i loved marianna and her love for her brother was tangible and genuine. she is stubborn but for good reason and the banter between her and everyone else in the story is so well done. it was super slow at first, building up the plot and world so i wasn’t expecting it to be all that. i also wasn’t a huge fan of the age gap situation but i kinda understand why it was there. (and she was technically of age for the time when she was 16 but im glad he waited until she was 19) (also not a huge fan of the man whore trope but we ball) but by the midway point when she is of age and they acknowledge their desire for one another, i was SEATED. i love how strong they both are and the nuggets of wisdom about love and relationships sprinkled throughout
i wasn’t expecting their love scenes to be so good but it was and it genuinely lended a credibility to their connection which is generally sort of rare with romance novels which seem to have like inserted love scenes that don’t lend much to the story or relationship, they almost feel obligatory. but i liked them in this book. i also liked the way the denial and push and pull was executed. there was a bit of groveling, actually a perfect amount. i also liked the side characters A LOT and there was no random side character death or tragedy!! yippeeee!!
i usually read the quick and dirty romance, and prefer when the MMC and FMC get together quickish (no insta love), and generally prefer for conflict that’s not directly related to the relationship to not be a huge part bc i get bored when there’s too much exposition on something COMPLETELY unrelated to the pair (MC romance i’m looking at you with your dumb club wars that only minimally involve the FMC at the very end with a kidnapping plot or some stupid miscommunication third act). while this book had a conflict that was outside of the relationship that involved politics (something that puts me right to sleep) it directly involved the two of them heavily and i was ended up really enjoying this
firstly, the FMC was wonderfully characterized. i loved marianna and her love for her brother was tangible and genuine. she is stubborn but for good reason and the banter between her and everyone else in the story is so well done. it was super slow at first, building up the plot and world so i wasn’t expecting it to be all that. i also wasn’t a huge fan of the age gap situation but i kinda understand why it was there. (and she was technically of age for the time when she was 16 but im glad he waited until she was 19) (also not a huge fan of the man whore trope but we ball) but by the midway point when she is of age and they acknowledge their desire for one another, i was SEATED. i love how strong they both are and the nuggets of wisdom about love and relationships sprinkled throughout
i wasn’t expecting their love scenes to be so good but it was and it genuinely lended a credibility to their connection which is generally sort of rare with romance novels which seem to have like inserted love scenes that don’t lend much to the story or relationship, they almost feel obligatory. but i liked them in this book. i also liked the way the denial and push and pull was executed. there was a bit of groveling, actually a perfect amount. i also liked the side characters A LOT and there was no random side character death or tragedy!! yippeeee!!
July 5, 2018
If you like older style romances you will enjoy this. It is foremost a romance book , but has the history back drop that is missing in todays romances. Also the plot is unique in that the heroines family are noted glass makers. The heroines grandmother created a stained glass panel called the window of Heaven that was in effect, a map to secret tunnels. Napoleon is starting his reign of conquest and both sides are desperate to get their hands on this panel. The book opens with the heroine and her young brother at the chapel that contains the window. The enemy had inadvertently smashed the panel thus rendering the map useless. The heroine had come to steal it and is confronted my the hero, whom wants the panel to defend is country from Napoleon. Realizing that the heroine knows the secret the panel held he convinces her to travel with him to escape from the enemies whom will come searching for her.
He is a rake and finds him self attracted to her, but is conflicted by his feelings for her vs his duty. Yes the heroine starts off in the book as 16, but the book spans many years and sex etc doesn't happen until she is much older, due to the hero's restraint.
He is a rake and finds him self attracted to her, but is conflicted by his feelings for her vs his duty. Yes the heroine starts off in the book as 16, but the book spans many years and sex etc doesn't happen until she is much older, due to the hero's restraint.
September 27, 2019
I like this one a lot. It was different from the usual HR's and had a decent plot. It dragged a little in some areas, but overall, a good read.
Let's face it, Gregor was the real star of this book.
It was a little frustrating to read about the all sacred Jedalar, but not to find out what the hell it even was until so late in the book.
I found the relationship between Marianna and Jordan very believable. Contextually the age difference and the "waiting" didn't bother me. It's would be gross now in a contemporary romance, but back then...meh. As much of a man-whore as Jordan was during his "waiting" period, I'm glad that we didn't learn too much about it. One might almost pretend that he wasn't actually doing anything...almost. It was funny to me because the sex scenes were more tame then the verbalizations of Jordan.
Let's face it, Gregor was the real star of this book.
It was a little frustrating to read about the all sacred Jedalar, but not to find out what the hell it even was until so late in the book.
I found the relationship between Marianna and Jordan very believable. Contextually the age difference and the "waiting" didn't bother me. It's would be gross now in a contemporary romance, but back then...meh. As much of a man-whore as Jordan was during his "waiting" period, I'm glad that we didn't learn too much about it. One might almost pretend that he wasn't actually doing anything...almost. It was funny to me because the sex scenes were more tame then the verbalizations of Jordan.
January 20, 2022
Jordan - “seducer, scoundrel, a man who has relentlessly undermined her will and taken her body, …”
Marianna - an innocent, with her baby sibling they trek to see what destruction befell the ‘Window to Heaven’
Nemesis - Duke of Nebrov, destructor, volatile, sadistic
Overall, a story of destruction set in an era of war, loss, mystery, Love & Trust. Window to Heaven, lives lost. Secrets, secret window panes and a certain Art.
Simply, a beautiful story that needs to be read. If you enjoy a storyline with history, don’t let this slip your fingers. Truly enjoyable.
4 1/2 stars please
Marianna - an innocent, with her baby sibling they trek to see what destruction befell the ‘Window to Heaven’
Nemesis - Duke of Nebrov, destructor, volatile, sadistic
Overall, a story of destruction set in an era of war, loss, mystery, Love & Trust. Window to Heaven, lives lost. Secrets, secret window panes and a certain Art.
Simply, a beautiful story that needs to be read. If you enjoy a storyline with history, don’t let this slip your fingers. Truly enjoyable.
4 1/2 stars please
December 16, 2017
(Teresa Siciliano)
Noiosissimo *
Romanzo lento e per nulla avvincente, sia sul filone avventuroso, sia su quello sentimentale. Anzi tutta la vicenda è piuttosto risibile: nascondere un segreto in una vetrata o pensare che si tratti di un’opera d’arte più duratura di un quadro o di una statua appare irrazionale visto quanto è appena avvenuto nell’esordio. Poco attraente sempre la personalità dei protagonisti e per nulla convincente la storia d’amore.
Incomprensibile, insomma, perché si sia deciso di ristampare questo romanzo.
Noiosissimo *
Romanzo lento e per nulla avvincente, sia sul filone avventuroso, sia su quello sentimentale. Anzi tutta la vicenda è piuttosto risibile: nascondere un segreto in una vetrata o pensare che si tratti di un’opera d’arte più duratura di un quadro o di una statua appare irrazionale visto quanto è appena avvenuto nell’esordio. Poco attraente sempre la personalità dei protagonisti e per nulla convincente la storia d’amore.
Incomprensibile, insomma, perché si sia deciso di ristampare questo romanzo.
May 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this. I loved the setting as it's not one I've read before and the chemistry between the characters. I absolutely loved that the heroine is a stained glass craftsman. I think this could have been a little shorter and the slow burn romance a bit less slow...I kinda hate when they overly fight how they feel. 3.5 ⭐ but rounding up to 4 because of how much I love the authors writing.
December 31, 2020
This book is very much like the stained glass window that plays an important part in the plot. Every character has their personality, their goals, their loves. And all of these fit together to make one beautiful picture (or book). A good read in front of a burning fire place. (The sex is great too!!!)
May 17, 2017
The romantic male was older, domineering, and basically trapped the female protagonist into a physical relationship. Yuck. I really liked Gregor though.
December 31, 2017
Amazing! Another great iris Johansen book.
March 11, 2018
Very spicy........not a usual Johansen book, but good. Quite obviously history. I enjoyed it, but enjoy her mysteries more.
April 27, 2018
Historical romance with an original story, unusual heroine and a really bad title.
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