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Arcane Society #1
Second Sight
Trong giấc mơ hoang đường nhất, Venetia Milton cũng không ngờ được vị hôn phu của nàng lại ĐỘI MỒ SỐNG DẬY, phá hỏng một buổi sáng đẹp trời…
Bởi đó là vị hôn phu nàng chỉ mới ranh mãnh "sắm" được sau một đêm hoan lạc. Anh chàng xuất thân dòng dõi mà nàng mượn danh để thuận lợi tiến vào xã hội London, hòng gây dựng sự nghiệp nhiếp ảnh gia thời thượng, chứ không hề có ý gắn bó lâu dài, đừng nói đến hôn nhân. Vị hôn phu mà cái chết đã được đăng khắp các mặt báo. Nhưng người đàn ông đó, vẫn sống điềm nhiên, lại sắp dõng dạc bước vào cuộc đời nàng. Và sau tất cả những hiểm nguy chàng mang theo, sau tất cả những bông đùa giễu cợt, những toan tính bí hiểm, chàng rắp tâm đánh cắp trái tim nàng một lần nữa, trọn vẹn…
Là tác giả sách bán chạy theo bình chọn của New York Times, Amanda Quick sẽ dẫn dắt bạn qua một chuyến phiêu lưu tình ái đầy đam mê trong thời đại Victoria xưa.
Nhận định
“Một câu chuyện thú vị và sắc sảo về những bí mật… Với đối thoại dí dỏm, các nhân vật đa chiều, kết cấu truyện thông minh và trí khôi hài phong phú, Amada Quick muôn đời được yêu thích lại viết thêm một tác phẩm nổi bật.” - Booklist
“Nếu bạn bắt đầu đọc một cuốn sách của Amanda Quick vào buổi xế chiều, thì chắc chắn bạn sẽ thức trắng cả đêm cùng nó.”- The Denver Post
Bởi đó là vị hôn phu nàng chỉ mới ranh mãnh "sắm" được sau một đêm hoan lạc. Anh chàng xuất thân dòng dõi mà nàng mượn danh để thuận lợi tiến vào xã hội London, hòng gây dựng sự nghiệp nhiếp ảnh gia thời thượng, chứ không hề có ý gắn bó lâu dài, đừng nói đến hôn nhân. Vị hôn phu mà cái chết đã được đăng khắp các mặt báo. Nhưng người đàn ông đó, vẫn sống điềm nhiên, lại sắp dõng dạc bước vào cuộc đời nàng. Và sau tất cả những hiểm nguy chàng mang theo, sau tất cả những bông đùa giễu cợt, những toan tính bí hiểm, chàng rắp tâm đánh cắp trái tim nàng một lần nữa, trọn vẹn…
Là tác giả sách bán chạy theo bình chọn của New York Times, Amanda Quick sẽ dẫn dắt bạn qua một chuyến phiêu lưu tình ái đầy đam mê trong thời đại Victoria xưa.
Nhận định
“Một câu chuyện thú vị và sắc sảo về những bí mật… Với đối thoại dí dỏm, các nhân vật đa chiều, kết cấu truyện thông minh và trí khôi hài phong phú, Amada Quick muôn đời được yêu thích lại viết thêm một tác phẩm nổi bật.” - Booklist
“Nếu bạn bắt đầu đọc một cuốn sách của Amanda Quick vào buổi xế chiều, thì chắc chắn bạn sẽ thức trắng cả đêm cùng nó.”- The Denver Post
338 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published March 27, 2007
1193 people are currently reading
9044 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Quick
93 books5,493 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 785 reviews
December 30, 2015
I am not exactly an historical romance lover and you probably thinking…if so, why did I even pick this book up and what made me like it so much………….. ?
Having read and liked 5 of the books in Jayne Ann Krentz’s Arcane Society Series, I have wanted to read the rest of the series and discovered that Second Sight was Book 1 and it would give me the back-story on the series and how the secretive Arcane Society was started and what it represents. Men and women with paranormal abilities!!!!
The book blurb:
According to the blurb, Second Sight is set in Victorian England. The characters include Gabriel Jones, one of the infamous Jones men of the secret paranormal organization, the Arcane Society and Venetia Milton, a photographer with a special way of "seeing" beyond her subjects. The other two high ranking Jones men, Thaddeus Ware and Caleb Jones, are also involved in the mystery. Gabriel and Venetia must pose as husband and wife as they work to track down a dangerous opponent of the Joneses.
This was a quick-paced, well-thought out and intriguing story set in the late Victorian era, filled with romantic suspense, likeable and endearing characters, paranormal forces, twists and unexpected turns, witty dialogue and some sizzling and sexy moments between the two main characters. Nothing I was expecting from an historical novel…..
Just some of the things I liked about this book:
The heroine –
The hero -
I so enjoyed the historical detail in the story and the vivid writing almost made me feel I was living in the Victorian time in London…
A really good read.
What baffles me about this series is why it’s not written under one name but two!!!! Jayne Ann Krentz and one of her pseudonyms Amanda Quick!!!
Having read and liked 5 of the books in Jayne Ann Krentz’s Arcane Society Series, I have wanted to read the rest of the series and discovered that Second Sight was Book 1 and it would give me the back-story on the series and how the secretive Arcane Society was started and what it represents. Men and women with paranormal abilities!!!!
The book blurb:
According to the blurb, Second Sight is set in Victorian England. The characters include Gabriel Jones, one of the infamous Jones men of the secret paranormal organization, the Arcane Society and Venetia Milton, a photographer with a special way of "seeing" beyond her subjects. The other two high ranking Jones men, Thaddeus Ware and Caleb Jones, are also involved in the mystery. Gabriel and Venetia must pose as husband and wife as they work to track down a dangerous opponent of the Joneses.
This was a quick-paced, well-thought out and intriguing story set in the late Victorian era, filled with romantic suspense, likeable and endearing characters, paranormal forces, twists and unexpected turns, witty dialogue and some sizzling and sexy moments between the two main characters. Nothing I was expecting from an historical novel…..
Just some of the things I liked about this book:
The heroine –
She was a woman before her time!!!!! I loved how she was comfortable with who she was and did exactly what she wanted to do with her life!!!!
The hero -
I liked that, whilst he had this over protectiveness towards Venetia, he still admired her independence and her adventurous spirit. And he was a hell of a hot guy!!!!!
I so enjoyed the historical detail in the story and the vivid writing almost made me feel I was living in the Victorian time in London…
A really good read.
What baffles me about this series is why it’s not written under one name but two!!!! Jayne Ann Krentz and one of her pseudonyms Amanda Quick!!!
January 8, 2024
I have read 5 or 6 of Quicks books, have enjoyed them. I listened to the audio version of this book read by Islay Jacobs with a wonderful performance by her. The book had few clues as to who was the "bad guy" and what was the motive. It was explained at the end (but the book was almost over) and the mystery had evolved very little with the romance moving along a bit better. Did I enjoy it....yes, but I wanted a bit more. I read paranormal occasionally and this was a theme throughout the book. 3.75* for a very enjoyable listen but knocked off points for the weak mystery.
March 18, 2025
I put work into my writing. Comments are what they have earned. Empty clicks are unwanted.
I seldom like historical fiction but superb story crafting, characters, and originality impress me. My New Jersey friend, Lorraine knew I would love Amanda Quick and mailed me this hardcover as a birthday present, in beautiful wrapping paper! I tucked into it right after my previous book. I finished “Second Sight” in two nights and designated five stars out of sheer pleasure. Thank you, Lorraine!
A secret society collecting magical artifacts sounded tantalizing in the prologue but does not permeate the novel. My sole criticism is that it only furnished a background in name. The tone shifted to that of a crime mystery, with danger and villains. It was written well and sustains suspense throughout the novel. What kept my appreciation as high as five stars are two families of wonderful, loveable, characters and a unique, quirky premise. We all would feel safe, welcome, and bolstered by such hardy friends; which let me disregard that they were not of our era. I savoured the excellent dialogue and colourful, confident array of characters so much, I am disappointed this series switches protagonists. However, I would give any Jayne Ann Krentz story a try. I love personalities who are so vibrant, witty, and sure of themselves. Each page took me somewhere delightful that I could not predict; something we ravenous readers seldom see.
Subtly threaded into the suspenseful mystery adventure were a number of issues important to real life. Too easily, the death of a patriarch resulted in meagre finances. Ladies were unlikely to marry if it did not occur by age 30, or if they did not have a respectable role or job. Venetia Milton thankfully was a gifted photographer, successful in her business. The heroes’ psychic traits contributed refreshing atmospheres. The humble internal struggles of the leading man brought profundity.
I seldom like historical fiction but superb story crafting, characters, and originality impress me. My New Jersey friend, Lorraine knew I would love Amanda Quick and mailed me this hardcover as a birthday present, in beautiful wrapping paper! I tucked into it right after my previous book. I finished “Second Sight” in two nights and designated five stars out of sheer pleasure. Thank you, Lorraine!
A secret society collecting magical artifacts sounded tantalizing in the prologue but does not permeate the novel. My sole criticism is that it only furnished a background in name. The tone shifted to that of a crime mystery, with danger and villains. It was written well and sustains suspense throughout the novel. What kept my appreciation as high as five stars are two families of wonderful, loveable, characters and a unique, quirky premise. We all would feel safe, welcome, and bolstered by such hardy friends; which let me disregard that they were not of our era. I savoured the excellent dialogue and colourful, confident array of characters so much, I am disappointed this series switches protagonists. However, I would give any Jayne Ann Krentz story a try. I love personalities who are so vibrant, witty, and sure of themselves. Each page took me somewhere delightful that I could not predict; something we ravenous readers seldom see.
Subtly threaded into the suspenseful mystery adventure were a number of issues important to real life. Too easily, the death of a patriarch resulted in meagre finances. Ladies were unlikely to marry if it did not occur by age 30, or if they did not have a respectable role or job. Venetia Milton thankfully was a gifted photographer, successful in her business. The heroes’ psychic traits contributed refreshing atmospheres. The humble internal struggles of the leading man brought profundity.
June 30, 2025
The first book in the Arcane Society series, written by Amanda Quick a pseudonym for Jayne Krentz, and a popular author under both names.
Second Sight is set in Victorian England and involves the setting up of a secret organisation, the Arcane Society. It contains many great characters, paranormal activity and a good mystery. A bit too much time spent in the bedroom for me which influences me a little away from this author's books although she does write good dialogue and an entertaining story.
Second Sight is set in Victorian England and involves the setting up of a secret organisation, the Arcane Society. It contains many great characters, paranormal activity and a good mystery. A bit too much time spent in the bedroom for me which influences me a little away from this author's books although she does write good dialogue and an entertaining story.
December 18, 2016
Stupid, stupid, & more stupid, capped by a healthy dollop of lame.
Yes, world-building can be tedious, but sometimes it's necessary...because THIS dreck is what happens when the author dumps a bunch of paranormal shit in our laps without bothering to lay the groundwork. Frequent & hammy insertions of terms like 'psychical' or 'aura' or 'metaphysical energy' or 'arcane' is NOT a substitute for world-building, regardless of whether your book is supposed to be set in Victorian England.
As for Gabriel & Venetia, who gives a fuck? Not me. It seems entire chapters of need-to-know backstory have been cut away -- i.e., the pages to understand personal tidbits like, say, their family ties, the reason behind/peril of their mystical woo-woo powers, their interaction leading to that pivotal night & what happened afterward, their motivations for drawing breath & taking up space on this overcrowded planet...
Yup. Minor, unimportant stuff like that.
What a turkey. I didn't expect great literature, but c'mon.
Yes, world-building can be tedious, but sometimes it's necessary...because THIS dreck is what happens when the author dumps a bunch of paranormal shit in our laps without bothering to lay the groundwork. Frequent & hammy insertions of terms like 'psychical' or 'aura' or 'metaphysical energy' or 'arcane' is NOT a substitute for world-building, regardless of whether your book is supposed to be set in Victorian England.
As for Gabriel & Venetia, who gives a fuck? Not me. It seems entire chapters of need-to-know backstory have been cut away -- i.e., the pages to understand personal tidbits like, say, their family ties, the reason behind/peril of their mystical woo-woo powers, their interaction leading to that pivotal night & what happened afterward, their motivations for drawing breath & taking up space on this overcrowded planet...
Yup. Minor, unimportant stuff like that.
What a turkey. I didn't expect great literature, but c'mon.
July 5, 2025
I took me a long while to start reading the Arcane Society series. It seems that I suffered from a misapprehension that I would not enjoy a historical novel with paranormal twists ( Jayne Anne Krentz/ Amanda Quick begins the series on the Victorian time, only later I realized it went back and forth between historical and contemporary settings, to later go foward to the future). So I was wrong, and although it wasn’t an exceptional beginning, I enjoyed Second Sight.
Photographer Venetia Milton is not well financially and almost on the shelf. She poses as Mrs. Jones, wife of a man she believed dead. She sets herself in London as photographer to support her family. But what a surprise, Gabriel Jones comes back from the dead (not an unique story line), he had been investigating a murder in the secretive Arcane Society.
I liked both hero and heroine, they made a good couple. Amanda Quick likes to write of women who are smart and just a little bit peculiar (that I quite like); Gabriel is intimately involved with the Arcane Society. Venetia is something of a progressive woman for her times. Gabriel respects that in her, he seems to understand her eccentricities. Their understanding might be explained by the fact that both have psychical abilities. They fit together well-enough.
The story‘s mix of mystery and romance was good. Both were believable even if not the best of Amanda Quick’s books. It was quick paced enough to keep me reading almost through to the end. However, something was missing. I’ve been a fun of Amanda Quick for a long time and enjoyed many of her stories. So I was somewhat disappointed. Maybe there was too much going at the same time for a first installment of a series: the romance, the mystery and suspense, and the paranormal. It’s at this first book that we learn about the Arcane Society and what it’s all about. Maybe it could have been better unraveled.
A good book. Recommended, especially the whole Arcane Society series.
Photographer Venetia Milton is not well financially and almost on the shelf. She poses as Mrs. Jones, wife of a man she believed dead. She sets herself in London as photographer to support her family. But what a surprise, Gabriel Jones comes back from the dead (not an unique story line), he had been investigating a murder in the secretive Arcane Society.
I liked both hero and heroine, they made a good couple. Amanda Quick likes to write of women who are smart and just a little bit peculiar (that I quite like); Gabriel is intimately involved with the Arcane Society. Venetia is something of a progressive woman for her times. Gabriel respects that in her, he seems to understand her eccentricities. Their understanding might be explained by the fact that both have psychical abilities. They fit together well-enough.
The story‘s mix of mystery and romance was good. Both were believable even if not the best of Amanda Quick’s books. It was quick paced enough to keep me reading almost through to the end. However, something was missing. I’ve been a fun of Amanda Quick for a long time and enjoyed many of her stories. So I was somewhat disappointed. Maybe there was too much going at the same time for a first installment of a series: the romance, the mystery and suspense, and the paranormal. It’s at this first book that we learn about the Arcane Society and what it’s all about. Maybe it could have been better unraveled.
A good book. Recommended, especially the whole Arcane Society series.
December 15, 2014
3.5 Stars
Historical Fiction + Paranormal Elements + Sexy Times. Well, well, well this is right up my alley.
I like the idea of adding Paranormal aspects in a Victorian setting. The romance/sexy times isn’t as much in the forefront of the story as I would have liked for a book like this but the Murder Mystery was fun and made up for it.
In this setting some individuals have evolved to have certain Arcane powers of some sort. Venitia can see auras and sense energies on artifacts. She is the eldest daughter of a recently orphaned family and has taken up photography to support them. She meets Gabriel when she is commissioned to take photographs of some peculiar artifacts for Arcane House. In the brief time they spend together she becomes infatuated with him and knowing that she will most likely never marry due to her financial and familial situation decides to have a liaison with Gabriel. While Venitia is prepared for it to be a brief fling he is not, but before they can get it all figured out someone interrupts with a robbery and a murder attempt so they are separated.
I liked both Venitia and Gabriel as characters. Amanda Quick likes to write of woman who are smart and just a little bit quirky. In this Victorian setting it is difficult to be a woman and hold any kind of power. Venitia is able to bypass some of society’s rules by posing as a Widow to set up her business. She is resourceful and will do whatever is necessary to provide for her family. Gabriel is a scholar who has also spent his life learning how to control the predatory instincts that are as much a gift as they are a curse. He reminds me a lot of a were-anything except it is all sensory and he doesn’t change shapes.
The mystery to figure out who is looking for the alchemist’s recipe and killing off the people around Venitia was interesting but not overdone; this is more of a romance than anything else. I had a good time following them around society and enjoyed the way that the world and powers were set up.
This isn’t a super strong PNR but had just enough elements that it made the HF part of it even more interesting for me.
Historical Fiction + Paranormal Elements + Sexy Times. Well, well, well this is right up my alley.
I like the idea of adding Paranormal aspects in a Victorian setting. The romance/sexy times isn’t as much in the forefront of the story as I would have liked for a book like this but the Murder Mystery was fun and made up for it.
In this setting some individuals have evolved to have certain Arcane powers of some sort. Venitia can see auras and sense energies on artifacts. She is the eldest daughter of a recently orphaned family and has taken up photography to support them. She meets Gabriel when she is commissioned to take photographs of some peculiar artifacts for Arcane House. In the brief time they spend together she becomes infatuated with him and knowing that she will most likely never marry due to her financial and familial situation decides to have a liaison with Gabriel. While Venitia is prepared for it to be a brief fling he is not, but before they can get it all figured out someone interrupts with a robbery and a murder attempt so they are separated.
I liked both Venitia and Gabriel as characters. Amanda Quick likes to write of woman who are smart and just a little bit quirky. In this Victorian setting it is difficult to be a woman and hold any kind of power. Venitia is able to bypass some of society’s rules by posing as a Widow to set up her business. She is resourceful and will do whatever is necessary to provide for her family. Gabriel is a scholar who has also spent his life learning how to control the predatory instincts that are as much a gift as they are a curse. He reminds me a lot of a were-anything except it is all sensory and he doesn’t change shapes.
The mystery to figure out who is looking for the alchemist’s recipe and killing off the people around Venitia was interesting but not overdone; this is more of a romance than anything else. I had a good time following them around society and enjoyed the way that the world and powers were set up.
This isn’t a super strong PNR but had just enough elements that it made the HF part of it even more interesting for me.
May 29, 2013
I know that I started this book once before, but I can't for the life of me remember when or why I didn’t finish. I suspect it was a Kindle sample and being that it's published by Penguin, the price was simply too outrageous to pony up the money. I mean, when the Kindle version costs more than the paperback, you know that somebody has a flawed view of consumer value.
Anyway, I picked up some Jayne Ann Krentz books recently, including the second in the Arcane Society series (Amanda Quick is a pseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz). Since I hate starting in the middle, I picked this book up from the library in preparation. (Take that evil Penguin overlords!)
And found I rather liked it. Victorian isn't my preferred era, but I think it worked well-enough in this case. Quick seemed to have a decent grasp of the people and times (for my uninformed expectations, at any rate), even if the heroine, Venetia, is something of a progressive woman for her times. Gabriel is a progressive man and perfectly capable of accepting her quirks and eccentricities, so it was all well-enough. I even liked the peripheral characters (Venetia's family and their friends and/or servants, mostly).
While everything flowed very smoothly, I couldn't help the feeling that it was maybe a little too... airy? light? facile? I'm not sure. The surrounding plot includes murder and mysticism, so I guess it just felt that there wasn't enough weight given how people were dying and stuff. Since, for much of the novel, Venetia is at least a likely target of someone with little scruple, let alone restraint, I guess it seemed to me that things were a bit too light-hearted when all is said.
So it was a pleasant, entertaining read as long as all you really are looking for is light entertainment. It does deliver on that promise and earn a solid (and well-appreciated) 3 stars. I hope the rest of the series lives up to this promising start.
A note about Steamy: This is middle-range steamy book for me—two (and a half) explicit scenes, though one early-enough in the novel that I was somehow expecting more. Both were very well-done, even if I thought Venetia maybe a little too eager for an era absent reliable birth control.
Anyway, I picked up some Jayne Ann Krentz books recently, including the second in the Arcane Society series (Amanda Quick is a pseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz). Since I hate starting in the middle, I picked this book up from the library in preparation. (Take that evil Penguin overlords!)
And found I rather liked it. Victorian isn't my preferred era, but I think it worked well-enough in this case. Quick seemed to have a decent grasp of the people and times (for my uninformed expectations, at any rate), even if the heroine, Venetia, is something of a progressive woman for her times. Gabriel is a progressive man and perfectly capable of accepting her quirks and eccentricities, so it was all well-enough. I even liked the peripheral characters (Venetia's family and their friends and/or servants, mostly).
While everything flowed very smoothly, I couldn't help the feeling that it was maybe a little too... airy? light? facile? I'm not sure. The surrounding plot includes murder and mysticism, so I guess it just felt that there wasn't enough weight given how people were dying and stuff. Since, for much of the novel, Venetia is at least a likely target of someone with little scruple, let alone restraint, I guess it seemed to me that things were a bit too light-hearted when all is said.
So it was a pleasant, entertaining read as long as all you really are looking for is light entertainment. It does deliver on that promise and earn a solid (and well-appreciated) 3 stars. I hope the rest of the series lives up to this promising start.
A note about Steamy: This is middle-range steamy book for me—two (and a half) explicit scenes, though one early-enough in the novel that I was somehow expecting more. Both were very well-done, even if I thought Venetia maybe a little too eager for an era absent reliable birth control.
February 7, 2009
This was an entertaining book, but I think it could have been more enthralling. I felt a connection between Venetia and Gabriel, but I felt that it should have been more intense physically. The love scenes were way too abbreviated considering that Gabriel was a man of strong passions, although he was trying to keep those under control. I think too much focus was placed on the mystery and not enough on the romance. Had this been marketed as a mystery novel, I would have no complaints. But since it was a romance novel, I felt a bit cheated. It was well-written, and loved the Victorian setting with the paranormal elements. I loved the way Gabriel talked, it was very distinctive. I also liked the idea of Venetia being able to see auras and while she was in aura visual mode, how everying was in the negative. That was pretty unique and cool. I just wish that the romance had been better developed, along with the sensuality between Venetia and Gabriel.
November 16, 2019
Another ‘surprise’ selection by me! I have had this book awhile, but as I was organizing my books, this one was put in the incorrect pile. Now I have read Amanda Quick’s Second Sight (Arcane Society,#1), and the ‘surprise’ is definitely mine as realization set in that this book is the first of a series that I enjoy very much. Setting: late Victorian era, isolated coast headquarters of the Arcane Society that is 200 years old, strong box. Characters: Gabriel Jones, his cousin, Caleb Jones, two of the “obsessive, reclusive eccentrics” who are in line to be members of the Arcane Society. Soon to enter-Venetia Milton-photographer. Gabriel Jones has hired Ms. Milton to photograph the ‘ancient’ relics of the Arcane Society founded by an ancestor alchemist of the Jones cousins. Interruption - Gabriel must guide Ms. Milton to safety as his senses, his paranormal senses, tell him ‘unwanted intruders’ are present. The Arcane Society is ‘obsessively secretive’. Thus, no one should be there unless they ‘sense’ or have been sent to ‘get’ something. I admire the independent Venetia Milton character who has photography as her business, but there is so much more. To be involved with Gabriel Jones and the Arcane Society, does Venetia Milton grasp all that could take place? Exciting! 4 stars.
February 3, 2017
No sabía muy bien como calificarle, y no porque no me haya gustado, sino porque el final ha sido tan súbito, que me ha descolocado.
Desde el primer momento la autora nos presenta un libro de misterio y toques paranormales, que hacen que una historia que bien podría haber sido muy típica, acabe enganchando más debido a ese secretismo y actitudes de los protagonistas.
Gabriel es un caballero que pertenece a la Sociedad Arcana, una especie de "Logia", vamos a llamarla, llena de eruditos y con poderes paranormales que descienden de alquimistas que han estudiado durante toda su vida las actividades paranormales y han creado diferentes fórmulas para elaborar determinadas pociones y venenos. Es debido a un manuscrito de un antepasado suyo, que Gabriel se ve envuelto en una trama macabra que empieza con el asesinato de las personas más allegadas a la Sociedad. Viendo el riesgo que conlleva y con la intención de parar los pies al asesino y de desentrañar esa maraña de misterios, se hace pasar por muerto hasta que la situación se le sale de las manos y decide volver del "más allá" para proteger a Venetia, quien debido a que adoptó su apellido al creerlo muerto, se ha puesto en el punto de mira del peligroso asesino.
Venetia es una joven fotógrafa que lleva sobre sus hombros la manutención de sus dos hermanos pequeños y de su tía tras un accidente en el que perdió a sus padres y se enteró de un terrible secreto relacionado con ellos. Es por sus fotos y su habilidad paranormal (puede ver las auras de las personas) que la Sociedad Arcana la contrata para fotografiar unas reliquias muy importantes.
En ese trabajo conocerá a Gabriel, tendrán un interludio amoroso que acaba mal debido a un intento de atentado en contra de él y empezará la verdadera historia.
Como digo,engancha desde el principio, Las interacciones entre los protagonistas son muy buenas y ambos se complementan muy bien a la hora de trabajar juntos para cazar al responsable de todos los asesinatos que se han cometido. Gabriel tiene sus puntos de machismo de la época, pero aún así sabe rectificar pronto y no tarda en escuchar las opiniones de Venetia. La familia de ella es otro punto a favor del libro, sobre todo el hermano pequeño Edward, quien tiene unos diálogos entre dulces y divertidos con Gabriel.
El asunto del asesino está bastante bien definido, porque empiezan a aparecer demasiado sospechoso, unos obvios y otros no tanto que hacen que te preguntes si lo que sospechas puede ser cierto o no.
El problema, para mi gusto, viene durante las últimas 20 páginas del libro, y es que se descubre todo demasiado rápido y el desenlace es todavía mucho más rápido. Eso me quedó un poco bloqueada, porque pensé que después de tanto misterio, daría más problemas que los que tuvo. Bueno, eso, y el enamoramiento de los protagonistas, que, aunque a fuego lento, todavía quedaba un poco para que pudiera sacarse del fuego.
Aún así, es un libro muy entretenido, de lectura ágil y con unos toques divertidos.
Desde el primer momento la autora nos presenta un libro de misterio y toques paranormales, que hacen que una historia que bien podría haber sido muy típica, acabe enganchando más debido a ese secretismo y actitudes de los protagonistas.
Gabriel es un caballero que pertenece a la Sociedad Arcana, una especie de "Logia", vamos a llamarla, llena de eruditos y con poderes paranormales que descienden de alquimistas que han estudiado durante toda su vida las actividades paranormales y han creado diferentes fórmulas para elaborar determinadas pociones y venenos. Es debido a un manuscrito de un antepasado suyo, que Gabriel se ve envuelto en una trama macabra que empieza con el asesinato de las personas más allegadas a la Sociedad. Viendo el riesgo que conlleva y con la intención de parar los pies al asesino y de desentrañar esa maraña de misterios, se hace pasar por muerto hasta que la situación se le sale de las manos y decide volver del "más allá" para proteger a Venetia, quien debido a que adoptó su apellido al creerlo muerto, se ha puesto en el punto de mira del peligroso asesino.
Venetia es una joven fotógrafa que lleva sobre sus hombros la manutención de sus dos hermanos pequeños y de su tía tras un accidente en el que perdió a sus padres y se enteró de un terrible secreto relacionado con ellos. Es por sus fotos y su habilidad paranormal (puede ver las auras de las personas) que la Sociedad Arcana la contrata para fotografiar unas reliquias muy importantes.
En ese trabajo conocerá a Gabriel, tendrán un interludio amoroso que acaba mal debido a un intento de atentado en contra de él y empezará la verdadera historia.
Como digo,engancha desde el principio, Las interacciones entre los protagonistas son muy buenas y ambos se complementan muy bien a la hora de trabajar juntos para cazar al responsable de todos los asesinatos que se han cometido. Gabriel tiene sus puntos de machismo de la época, pero aún así sabe rectificar pronto y no tarda en escuchar las opiniones de Venetia. La familia de ella es otro punto a favor del libro, sobre todo el hermano pequeño Edward, quien tiene unos diálogos entre dulces y divertidos con Gabriel.
El asunto del asesino está bastante bien definido, porque empiezan a aparecer demasiado sospechoso, unos obvios y otros no tanto que hacen que te preguntes si lo que sospechas puede ser cierto o no.
El problema, para mi gusto, viene durante las últimas 20 páginas del libro, y es que se descubre todo demasiado rápido y el desenlace es todavía mucho más rápido. Eso me quedó un poco bloqueada, porque pensé que después de tanto misterio, daría más problemas que los que tuvo. Bueno, eso, y el enamoramiento de los protagonistas, que, aunque a fuego lento, todavía quedaba un poco para que pudiera sacarse del fuego.
Aún así, es un libro muy entretenido, de lectura ágil y con unos toques divertidos.
July 30, 2015
It pains me to give this such a bad rating, especially since I absolutely love Amanda Quick, but Second Sight has too many flaws to ignore--one of which, the characterisation issue, prevented me from enjoying the novel to the fullest.
First, the writing lacked smoothness and clarity. The story did not flow fluidly from chapter to chapter. In fact, it was more like a collection of disorganised and disjointed pieces than a coherent whole.
I'm acquainted with Ms. Quick's writing well enough to know that such a basic and technical flaw is beneath her. So what the hell happened with this?
Second, the poor characterisation prevented me from connecting with the story. Gabriel and Venetia were nothing but a set of faceless characters--they weren't even properly described in the book!--until the end. I wasn't able to know them as people, to relate to them and their feelings. I wasn't even given a chance to warm up to the idea of an attraction between them when it was flung at my face. The romance was horribly executed; it felt too abrupt, too forced and too contrived.
Moreover, my hatred for Venetia made matters worse. She was so selfish that I wanted to wring her neck. Poor Gabriel. He had to make all the adjustments. He had to do all the heavy lifting in their relationship. Girl, can you at least try to consider his feelings? UGGGGHHHH
I gave this book 2 stars because well, despite its flaws, it was still an okay read, if you prioritise mystery over romance. I wouldn't read this again in the future though. I prefer my characters to be more likeable.
First, the writing lacked smoothness and clarity. The story did not flow fluidly from chapter to chapter. In fact, it was more like a collection of disorganised and disjointed pieces than a coherent whole.
I'm acquainted with Ms. Quick's writing well enough to know that such a basic and technical flaw is beneath her. So what the hell happened with this?
Second, the poor characterisation prevented me from connecting with the story. Gabriel and Venetia were nothing but a set of faceless characters--they weren't even properly described in the book!--until the end. I wasn't able to know them as people, to relate to them and their feelings. I wasn't even given a chance to warm up to the idea of an attraction between them when it was flung at my face. The romance was horribly executed; it felt too abrupt, too forced and too contrived.
Moreover, my hatred for Venetia made matters worse. She was so selfish that I wanted to wring her neck. Poor Gabriel. He had to make all the adjustments. He had to do all the heavy lifting in their relationship. Girl, can you at least try to consider his feelings? UGGGGHHHH
I gave this book 2 stars because well, despite its flaws, it was still an okay read, if you prioritise mystery over romance. I wouldn't read this again in the future though. I prefer my characters to be more likeable.
December 7, 2016
3.5
RTC
“There was nothing like having a dead husband return from the grave to ruin a fine spring morning.”
RTC
“There was nothing like having a dead husband return from the grave to ruin a fine spring morning.”
June 17, 2018
Venetia Milton se propone disfrutar de una noche de pasión y su nuevo trabajo como fotógrafa en Arcane House le pone las cosas fáciles y más con su intrigante y encantador cliente Gabriel Jones. Tras una noche entre los dos sus caminos se separan y Gabriel muere en un misterioso accidente. Venetia decide honorarlo con el uso de su apellido pero esto le traerá grandes problemas.
Esta novela no me ha llegado a calar como lo han hecho otras de la autora y es que en esta primera entrega con mezcla de romance y temas paranormales me ha parecido si no aburrida, pero casi se le acercaba, me ha costado mucho terminarla. La trama tenía pinta interesante por esa mezcla de romance e intriga con lo metafísico pero no ha sido así. La primera parte me pareció demasiado repentina, me refiero concretamente a la relación entre Gabriel y Venetia, de tan veloz me pareció hasta poco creíble y luego está la manera de meternos en el tema paranormal unido al romance, ni una cosa ni la otra, me pareció hasta forzado. Es todo como un querer y no poder, ni intriga intriga ni romance romance, no sé si me explico.
De los personajes pues Venetia y Gabriel como pareja no me convencieron mucho aunque tengan un par de momentos memorables en el libro, el resto muy plano todo, poca emoción transmiten. La historia creo que estuvo mal planteada y en los momentos que se necesitaba no encontramos lo que hacía falta y luego ese final tan abrupto pues nos mata las esperanzas que nos podían quedar. En definitiva no creo que continúe con esta serie.
August 8, 2010
I positively adore Amanda Quick and I absolutely love her historical romances. Except this one.
This book disappointed me. I was expecting something hilarious and something that would cause my heart to flutter in my chest. But it definitely wasn't this.
Apparently, Amanda Quick wants to try writing paranormal romance since the genre sells like hotcakes, but this attempt is utter failure. She doesn't use any vampires in the book, but she might as well thrown in a little vampire action in the mix, since vampires are hotter than psychics. However, there are no vampires. Only people with psychical abilities, such as mesmerists, predators and people who can see auras. And we also have to add naturalists and Darwinians in the bunch.
Venetia is a spinster/photographer. She was employed by the Arcane Society, a society populated by the secretive, reclusive eccentrics who are obsessed with the arcane and uncanny, to take photographs of various antiquities in the Arcane House, which I must point out is hidden from civilization. This presents Venetia a chance to fulfill her goal to not remain a virgin for the rest of her life, to experience a night of passion with no strings attached.
Venetia's prey is Gabriel Jones, of course, men are know as weak species when it comes to resisting allure of women and Gabriel failed to fight Venetia off, so they spend a night together.
But after the interlude, despite the fact that Gabriel had more than a one night stand in mind, thieves arrive and the two lovers are parted.
Venetia then sees in the papers that Gabriel Jones is dead by a fire. She's saddened by the news, but needs to move on since she's the family breadwinner. She poses as Mrs. Jones, a widow photographer and puts up a business. The supposed to be Mr. Jones died from falling off a cliff, engulfed by raging waters in the Wild West.
But of course, Mr. Jones comes back and claims Venetia's special abilities to locate the thief and ultimately as his "wife".
___
What I love about Amanda Quick's romances is that they're light, funny and entertaining. However, she attempted to make this a thriller, throwing clues here and there. Then tosses psychical abilities, alchemy and other scientific mumbo jumbo, destroying the lightness and funniness of the story. But still, it was entertaining.
But still, despite the complaints, I wasn't actually suffering from reading it, thus the three stars. But I felt it was actually generous of me, because I can't make myself give Amanda Quick something less.
This book disappointed me. I was expecting something hilarious and something that would cause my heart to flutter in my chest. But it definitely wasn't this.
Apparently, Amanda Quick wants to try writing paranormal romance since the genre sells like hotcakes, but this attempt is utter failure. She doesn't use any vampires in the book, but she might as well thrown in a little vampire action in the mix, since vampires are hotter than psychics. However, there are no vampires. Only people with psychical abilities, such as mesmerists, predators and people who can see auras. And we also have to add naturalists and Darwinians in the bunch.
Venetia is a spinster/photographer. She was employed by the Arcane Society, a society populated by the secretive, reclusive eccentrics who are obsessed with the arcane and uncanny, to take photographs of various antiquities in the Arcane House, which I must point out is hidden from civilization. This presents Venetia a chance to fulfill her goal to not remain a virgin for the rest of her life, to experience a night of passion with no strings attached.
Venetia's prey is Gabriel Jones, of course, men are know as weak species when it comes to resisting allure of women and Gabriel failed to fight Venetia off, so they spend a night together.
But after the interlude, despite the fact that Gabriel had more than a one night stand in mind, thieves arrive and the two lovers are parted.
Venetia then sees in the papers that Gabriel Jones is dead by a fire. She's saddened by the news, but needs to move on since she's the family breadwinner. She poses as Mrs. Jones, a widow photographer and puts up a business. The supposed to be Mr. Jones died from falling off a cliff, engulfed by raging waters in the Wild West.
But of course, Mr. Jones comes back and claims Venetia's special abilities to locate the thief and ultimately as his "wife".
___
What I love about Amanda Quick's romances is that they're light, funny and entertaining. However, she attempted to make this a thriller, throwing clues here and there. Then tosses psychical abilities, alchemy and other scientific mumbo jumbo, destroying the lightness and funniness of the story. But still, it was entertaining.
But still, despite the complaints, I wasn't actually suffering from reading it, thus the three stars. But I felt it was actually generous of me, because I can't make myself give Amanda Quick something less.
May 8, 2022
4.5 stars
Looking forward to this series, of course I’ll read anything by Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz.
Venetia is a photographic artist and modern thinking female (and who just happens to be able to see people’s auras) and has decided that as her prospects for marriage are slim (she has the responsibility of her younger sister and brother and spinster aunt to support), she has decided to have one fling before resigning herself to a single life.
Enter Gabriel ….
A little background. Venetia and Gabriel both possess psychical abilities. Venetia can detect auras. Gabriel can sense energy/intent from others simply by touch.
Poor Gabriel didn’t quite know what hit him when he first meets Venetia, but murder and his own carefully crafted “demise” isn’t going to stop him from keeping Venetia in his life.
Love this couple.
It’s very sad to know that there will be no other books within the series featuring Venetia and Gabriel because I would love to see them again. I would reread this.
Looking forward to this series, of course I’ll read anything by Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz.
Venetia is a photographic artist and modern thinking female (and who just happens to be able to see people’s auras) and has decided that as her prospects for marriage are slim (she has the responsibility of her younger sister and brother and spinster aunt to support), she has decided to have one fling before resigning herself to a single life.
Enter Gabriel ….
A little background. Venetia and Gabriel both possess psychical abilities. Venetia can detect auras. Gabriel can sense energy/intent from others simply by touch.
Poor Gabriel didn’t quite know what hit him when he first meets Venetia, but murder and his own carefully crafted “demise” isn’t going to stop him from keeping Venetia in his life.
Love this couple.
It’s very sad to know that there will be no other books within the series featuring Venetia and Gabriel because I would love to see them again. I would reread this.
August 3, 2020
Es un libro entretenido, aunque esperaba mucho más de él. Me hubiera gustado que el romance fuera mas lento y explotará más la parte paranormal de la novela. Aún asi es entretenido, como casi todas las novelas de esta autora
February 13, 2017
I didn't like this one as well as the other Arcane Society books. It was okay, but just so slow paced.
February 26, 2019
In this book we have a blend of HR, the paranormal and mystery – a concoction that should have created something beautifully absorbing especially given the author, Amanda Quick, who is one of my top HR authors, and yet my read of this first book in the Arcane Society series, was such a heavy disappointment, one that means I won’t be coming back to this series.
Gabriel Jones and Venetia Milton, the main characters in this book did not manifest well in my imagination, and the connection between them felt lacklustre – I was indifferent to seeing how things would play out. I also felt that the relationship starts too quickly and a lot was skipped over when it came to the development of the relationship between the two. And when it come to the writing or the love scenes, especially towards the end, it just didn’t work, the writing didn’t flow smoothly.
The mystery and paranormal elements of the book needed teasing out and layers. There was also a sharp need for some world-building, and for the story to flow better than it did.
I found myself easily forgetting what I had read as soon as I took a break from the book, and the plot and characters didn’t draw me in.
After the 55% mark I skim read A LOT on the commute home, something I hate doing but I wanted to see if things would get better – for me they didn’t, although there were some fleeting moments where my interest was raised, but then it plummeted.
I’m still startled that I couldn’t get into this book given who the author is, 2 stars as I’m somewhat indifferent to the book and super disappointed by it, rather than hating it.
Gabriel Jones and Venetia Milton, the main characters in this book did not manifest well in my imagination, and the connection between them felt lacklustre – I was indifferent to seeing how things would play out. I also felt that the relationship starts too quickly and a lot was skipped over when it came to the development of the relationship between the two. And when it come to the writing or the love scenes, especially towards the end, it just didn’t work, the writing didn’t flow smoothly.
The mystery and paranormal elements of the book needed teasing out and layers. There was also a sharp need for some world-building, and for the story to flow better than it did.
I found myself easily forgetting what I had read as soon as I took a break from the book, and the plot and characters didn’t draw me in.
After the 55% mark I skim read A LOT on the commute home, something I hate doing but I wanted to see if things would get better – for me they didn’t, although there were some fleeting moments where my interest was raised, but then it plummeted.
I’m still startled that I couldn’t get into this book given who the author is, 2 stars as I’m somewhat indifferent to the book and super disappointed by it, rather than hating it.
August 26, 2015
I decided to read this historical paranormal fiction because I was looking for a new series of books. I like psychics who are humble with their gifts. This is the first book in the series but it does not seem that the characters will be continued on to the next book(s). Upon reading the blurbs, I have stumbled on a series of an Arcane Society, which its focal point is just that, a Society of ancient history, generations of ancestors passing on their gifts to their children, grandchildren and so on. The Arcane Society also centers on ancient relics, artifacts, and journals, dating 2 centuries back. It's interesting to say the least.
This particular story is set during the reign of Queen Victoria. The Arcane Society excavated an alchemist's tomb and laboratory which has several journals and a notebook of experiments. One experiment has the eye of several disgruntled and former members of the Arcane Society. It is also a bit of a romance story and while I was reading this, I felt like I was back with Sherlock Holmes and Watson, but a tad more modern, I think. I can never understand Sherlock Holmes mysteries. The old English literature in the writing drives me mad, but you don't see a lot of that in this series, which is great for me.
From what I gather, the next in this series has a whole different story, different characters but still centers on the Arcane Society. I enjoyed this story but I am hoping the next one is better.
This particular story is set during the reign of Queen Victoria. The Arcane Society excavated an alchemist's tomb and laboratory which has several journals and a notebook of experiments. One experiment has the eye of several disgruntled and former members of the Arcane Society. It is also a bit of a romance story and while I was reading this, I felt like I was back with Sherlock Holmes and Watson, but a tad more modern, I think. I can never understand Sherlock Holmes mysteries. The old English literature in the writing drives me mad, but you don't see a lot of that in this series, which is great for me.
From what I gather, the next in this series has a whole different story, different characters but still centers on the Arcane Society. I enjoyed this story but I am hoping the next one is better.
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January 8, 2024Read this and enjoyed it back in the day!
March 1, 2011
Veneta Milton is doing something unusual in Victorian society, she's working as a photographer. As she's over the typical age of women looking for a husband. She's also responsible for her younger siblings and for her aunt. Any man that she might want to marry would also have the responsibility for them as well. As she doesn't see a husband in her future, she's decided that she doesn't want to die a virgin, she will take a night where she might know the "sins of the flesh". Veneta gives herself to Gabriel, but before the night ends, the mansion is being broke into. Gabriel sends Veneta to safety saying that he'd find her when he could. A few weeks later Veneta finds an announcement in the paper saying that Gabriel was killed, so as widow is more "respectable" in the working field than a plain
"miss" she becomes Mrs. Jones. And so the web begins when Gabriel comes back into her life as her husband claiming his wife. Now to find out who has been breaking into his homes, and why there has been a murder...
"miss" she becomes Mrs. Jones. And so the web begins when Gabriel comes back into her life as her husband claiming his wife. Now to find out who has been breaking into his homes, and why there has been a murder...
April 16, 2023
Did Not Finish
I'm normally a huge Amanda Quick fan, so am used to - and enjoy - her style and characters. For some reason, I couldn't get into this book. We start 5 days into the hero and heroine's meeting and at that point they've both somewhat fallen for one another and want to have an "illicit affair." We're not privy to how any of that went down though, because we skipped it all!
They start their affair, Venetia has be rushed away because thieves are breaking in, a week later she reads in the paper that Gabriel has died, and while she's a little upset and goes upstairs for a little cry, doesn't really seem that affected.
And the whole relationship just starts so quickly - we skip over stages 1 through whatever and are brought in halfway through, so I felt left out of the loop, cheated, and unable to join in the adventure.
Returning it to the library unfinished, sadly :-(.
I'm normally a huge Amanda Quick fan, so am used to - and enjoy - her style and characters. For some reason, I couldn't get into this book. We start 5 days into the hero and heroine's meeting and at that point they've both somewhat fallen for one another and want to have an "illicit affair." We're not privy to how any of that went down though, because we skipped it all!
They start their affair, Venetia has be rushed away because thieves are breaking in, a week later she reads in the paper that Gabriel has died, and while she's a little upset and goes upstairs for a little cry, doesn't really seem that affected.
And the whole relationship just starts so quickly - we skip over stages 1 through whatever and are brought in halfway through, so I felt left out of the loop, cheated, and unable to join in the adventure.
Returning it to the library unfinished, sadly :-(.
November 15, 2017
SO MUCH EXPOSITION IN THE DIALOGUE. The characters explained, and explained and explained. Sometimes they would even explain what you, as the reader, just read to another character mere pages later. In addition, the characters were not fleshed out and one-dimensional. Many characters had no importance whatsoever and were just used to create EXPOSITION IN THE DIALOGUE. The villains were ridiculously weak and their dialogue, again, was purely telling the reader their "diabolical" plans. The "mystery" was solved purely by snooping and making wild guesses, thus nothing was set up for the reader to discover. Instead, the reader had to be told what was happening which shows how sloppy the writing is in this book. The plot itself was a jumbled, boring, mess, which didn't create any empathy for the characters. I will not be reading more of this series and do not recommend this very boring book.
August 1, 2011
Really 3 ½ stars. Well narrated by Anne Flosnik. I could swear I’ve read this book b/f, but I know that is not possible. I think AQ just recycled some of her plotlines on this one. The romance happened too fast and the reasoning for her taking his name was kind of “Huh?” (IMHO). I said this again over his reasons for returning from the dead. Not one of my favorites by this author. Still, it was good enough that I'll continue with the series.
November 2, 2023
A lot to like, but also predictable and often eye roll worthy. It was poorly executed, however I liked the characters and the humor throughout the book. Not enough explanation about the paranormal aspects, but it eventually worked out in the end. Fun, read it in a single sitting. 3.5 ⭐ rounded up.
January 22, 2018
Entretenida sin mas, los personajes no son memorable ytoda la trama se resuelve rapidamente al final
January 15, 2019
A bit boring but good enough to read the whole thing.
December 9, 2025
The Arcane Society is a secret and secretive organization that for over 200 years has existed dedicated to the research of objects related to psychic abilities and to the enhancement of psychical abilities. During Victoria's reign, 2 descendants of the founder, Sylvester Jones, have finally located and opened his secret laboratory, in which they find a large locked chest containing only Sylvester's notebook purportedly containing a formula for an elixir that will enhance psychic abilities. A short while later, as the artifacts are resting in a ship bound for London where they items can be stored and studied, descendent brothers Gabriel and Caleb discover that one of the locals hired to transport the items to the ship was murdered and the notebook with the formula stolen.
From there, a short time later, Gabriel is at the secret hidden headquarters, think gothic mansion located in the middle of nowhere, near no village, with a professional photographer, Venetia Wilton, hired to photograph the entire collection of arcana owned by the Arcane Society. Just as she's finished, and also has accomplished her goal of seducing Gabriel for her first and likely only fling (she has no expectations of ever marrying), 2 unknown men approach the mansion, clearly intent on breaking in. Gabriel sends Venetia off to safety, supposedly perishing himself in a fire that same night.
Venetia and her family, whom she supports with her photography, use the large fee she was paid to realize their plans: move from Bath to London and set up a gallery and photography studio dedicated to portraits of the upper class. Venetia styles herself a widow, changing her last name to Jones, to honor Gabriel's memory, though she's made up a different 'Jones' as her husband and invented his demise in the American Wild West. Imagine her consternation with her dead husband reappears in London? For Gabriel did not die and is on the hunt for whoever stole the formula.
All of that happens in the first 40 pages - and the rest is an historical romance and mystery with a paranormal twist - many of the characters including both MC have psychic abilities - and occasional murders. Much interesting information about the photographic business in late 19th Century England as well as psychic phenomena real and faked provides much depth and interest to the plot. There's a fun cast of characters as well, with Venetia a very strong capable woman, more than a match for Gabriel. There is smut for sure but more suggestive than today's level of explicitness. This was published in 2007.
From there, a short time later, Gabriel is at the secret hidden headquarters, think gothic mansion located in the middle of nowhere, near no village, with a professional photographer, Venetia Wilton, hired to photograph the entire collection of arcana owned by the Arcane Society. Just as she's finished, and also has accomplished her goal of seducing Gabriel for her first and likely only fling (she has no expectations of ever marrying), 2 unknown men approach the mansion, clearly intent on breaking in. Gabriel sends Venetia off to safety, supposedly perishing himself in a fire that same night.
Venetia and her family, whom she supports with her photography, use the large fee she was paid to realize their plans: move from Bath to London and set up a gallery and photography studio dedicated to portraits of the upper class. Venetia styles herself a widow, changing her last name to Jones, to honor Gabriel's memory, though she's made up a different 'Jones' as her husband and invented his demise in the American Wild West. Imagine her consternation with her dead husband reappears in London? For Gabriel did not die and is on the hunt for whoever stole the formula.
All of that happens in the first 40 pages - and the rest is an historical romance and mystery with a paranormal twist - many of the characters including both MC have psychic abilities - and occasional murders. Much interesting information about the photographic business in late 19th Century England as well as psychic phenomena real and faked provides much depth and interest to the plot. There's a fun cast of characters as well, with Venetia a very strong capable woman, more than a match for Gabriel. There is smut for sure but more suggestive than today's level of explicitness. This was published in 2007.
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