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Cynster #21
By Winter's Light
#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens returns to romantic Scotland to usher in a new generation of Cynsters in an enchanting tale of mistletoe, magic, and love.
It’s December 1837, and the young adults of the Cynster clan have succeeded in having the family Christmas celebration held at snow-bound Casphairn Manor, Richard and Catriona Cynster’s home. Led by Sebastian, Marquess of Earith, and by Lucilla, future Lady of the Vale, and her twin brother, Marcus, the upcoming generation has their own plans for the holiday season.
Yet where Cynsters gather, love is never far behind—the festive occasion brings together Daniel Crosbie, tutor to Lucifer Cynster’s sons, and Claire Meadows, widow and governess to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter. Daniel and Claire have met before and the embers of an unexpected passion smolder between them, but once bitten, twice shy, Claire believes a second marriage is not in her stars. Daniel, however, is determined to press his suit. He’s seen the love the Cynsters share, and Claire is the lady with whom he dreams of sharing his life. Assisted by a bevy of Cynsters—innate matchmakers every one—Daniel strives to persuade Claire that trusting him with her hand and her heart is her right path to happiness.
Meanwhile, out riding on Christmas Eve, the young adults of the Cynster clan respond to a plea for help. Summoned to a humble dwelling in ruggedly forested mountains, Lucilla is called on to help with the difficult birth of a child, while the others rise to the challenge of helping her. With a violent storm closing in and severely limited options, the next generation of Cynsters face their first collective test—can they save this mother and child? And themselves, too?
Back at the manor, Claire is increasingly drawn to Daniel and despite her misgivings, against the backdrop of the ongoing festivities their relationship deepens. Yet she remains torn—until catastrophe strikes, and by winter’s light, she learns that love—true love—is worth any risk, any price.
A tale brimming with all the magical delights of a Scottish festive season.
It’s December 1837, and the young adults of the Cynster clan have succeeded in having the family Christmas celebration held at snow-bound Casphairn Manor, Richard and Catriona Cynster’s home. Led by Sebastian, Marquess of Earith, and by Lucilla, future Lady of the Vale, and her twin brother, Marcus, the upcoming generation has their own plans for the holiday season.
Yet where Cynsters gather, love is never far behind—the festive occasion brings together Daniel Crosbie, tutor to Lucifer Cynster’s sons, and Claire Meadows, widow and governess to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter. Daniel and Claire have met before and the embers of an unexpected passion smolder between them, but once bitten, twice shy, Claire believes a second marriage is not in her stars. Daniel, however, is determined to press his suit. He’s seen the love the Cynsters share, and Claire is the lady with whom he dreams of sharing his life. Assisted by a bevy of Cynsters—innate matchmakers every one—Daniel strives to persuade Claire that trusting him with her hand and her heart is her right path to happiness.
Meanwhile, out riding on Christmas Eve, the young adults of the Cynster clan respond to a plea for help. Summoned to a humble dwelling in ruggedly forested mountains, Lucilla is called on to help with the difficult birth of a child, while the others rise to the challenge of helping her. With a violent storm closing in and severely limited options, the next generation of Cynsters face their first collective test—can they save this mother and child? And themselves, too?
Back at the manor, Claire is increasingly drawn to Daniel and despite her misgivings, against the backdrop of the ongoing festivities their relationship deepens. Yet she remains torn—until catastrophe strikes, and by winter’s light, she learns that love—true love—is worth any risk, any price.
A tale brimming with all the magical delights of a Scottish festive season.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published October 28, 2014
324 people are currently reading
3422 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Laurens
206 books5,588 followersStephanie Laurens was born in Sri Lanka, which was at the time the British colony of Ceylon. When she was 5, her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where she was raised. After continuing through school and earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in Australia, Stephanie and her husband moved to Great Britain, taking one of the last true overland journeys from Katmandu to London.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
March 7, 2019
Translation widget on the blog!!!
O carte care te vrăjește si te înduioșează, îți aduce zâmbetul pe buze! Acțiunea se desfășoară pe doua planuri: noua generație Cynster si aventura lor in plină furtuna de zăpada si povestea lui Claire și Daniel, doi tutori care se îndrăgostesc. Totul pe fondul sărbătorii Crăciunului, in Scoția. O carte perfecta pentru sfârșit de Weekend!
Recenzia mea completă o găsiți aici:
https://justreadingmybooks.wordpress....
O carte care te vrăjește si te înduioșează, îți aduce zâmbetul pe buze! Acțiunea se desfășoară pe doua planuri: noua generație Cynster si aventura lor in plină furtuna de zăpada si povestea lui Claire și Daniel, doi tutori care se îndrăgostesc. Totul pe fondul sărbătorii Crăciunului, in Scoția. O carte perfecta pentru sfârșit de Weekend!
Recenzia mea completă o găsiți aici:
https://justreadingmybooks.wordpress....
December 6, 2014
Scottish Deerhound named Hickory won Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show in 2011.
★★★★✩ (This is a review of the audiobook.) I enjoyed the sound of Matthew Brenher's voice, but I wasn't wild-crazy about him. He has a deep voice, so sometimes when he tries to do the female voices, they sound old; works for Lady Helena, Dowager Duchess of St. Ives, and Algaria, but not so much for the young ladies.
Not a whole lot of plot or tons of romance here; mostly this covers Christmas and holiday traditions in Victorian Scotland and England and sets us up for Lucilla Cynster's story, The Tempting of Thomas Carrick, next in the series. However, it is neat to see the H/h aren't of the ton, but tutor and governess. Relies heavily on readers already knowing the parents of their charges - the children - who are the matchmakers and certainly rule the book.
And always a lot of fun to read it as a "buddy read." I had a blast posting pics of the traditions and getting in the Christmas spirit.
★★★★✩ (This is a review of the audiobook.) I enjoyed the sound of Matthew Brenher's voice, but I wasn't wild-crazy about him. He has a deep voice, so sometimes when he tries to do the female voices, they sound old; works for Lady Helena, Dowager Duchess of St. Ives, and Algaria, but not so much for the young ladies.
Not a whole lot of plot or tons of romance here; mostly this covers Christmas and holiday traditions in Victorian Scotland and England and sets us up for Lucilla Cynster's story, The Tempting of Thomas Carrick, next in the series. However, it is neat to see the H/h aren't of the ton, but tutor and governess. Relies heavily on readers already knowing the parents of their charges - the children - who are the matchmakers and certainly rule the book.
And always a lot of fun to read it as a "buddy read." I had a blast posting pics of the traditions and getting in the Christmas spirit.
May 9, 2025
I couldn’t have imagined I would be so disappointed with a Stephanie Laurens’s Cynster novel. The bottom line: By Winter Light was an insipid almost worthless book. There were no conflicts, no worthy plot. The only saving grace was that it was, as expected of Laurens, well written. Why not present it as a novella? I think it could have been better. For me it didn’t work at all, not even as a bridge between the previous older generation novels and as introduction to the coming protagonists of future books. Totally expendable. A pity, thus my rating of only 1 star. However, I remain a fun of Stephanie Laurens and will read with enthusiasm her subsequent work. After all, anyone can suffer a pitfall once in a while.
December 9, 2019
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
A charming visit with the Cynster clan during the holidays where matchmaking, festivities, and tradition all come together as we gain a glimpse into the lives of all the Cynster couples we have grown to know and love. It is a coming-of-age tale for the twin offspring of Richard/Scandal and Catriona, along with their cousins. Daniel and Claire are very sweet and dazzling with their innocent courtship that blooms into passion. This was very enjoyable and I look forward to seeing the futures of all the Cynster children unfolding.
A charming visit with the Cynster clan during the holidays where matchmaking, festivities, and tradition all come together as we gain a glimpse into the lives of all the Cynster couples we have grown to know and love. It is a coming-of-age tale for the twin offspring of Richard/Scandal and Catriona, along with their cousins. Daniel and Claire are very sweet and dazzling with their innocent courtship that blooms into passion. This was very enjoyable and I look forward to seeing the futures of all the Cynster children unfolding.
December 13, 2014
What a delightful read! While this was a continuation of the huge Cynster family series, it was very much an introduction to the next generation of that family. There were lots of names to learn (I flipped to the family tree often LOL), but it was worth it.
May 23, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
By Winter’s Light is the first book in the Cynster New Generation series and is also a holiday romance that is set in the Victorian Era as its year 1837. I have been wanting to read this one for the longest time and I have been wanting to explore more of this author’s work. She isn’t an author that I want to read all at once though because I know sometimes her books can feel the same (some author’s writing styles are like this so its intelligent to space them out). I was really intrigued with the setup of the story, as I do love a good unrequited love or intentions of marriage. There is also a Christmas theme to this story and I can’t tell you how much I adore this cover. There is such a magical theme to it. It really fits the Christmas setting. And one thing you can truly depend on with Stephanie Laurens is that her books are so authentic to the era. I love the realism feel to it, with the combination of culture and society and history that she is able to implement. But it also means that you need to be more patient as she takes the time for the description and captures the scene. The romance is charming, the characters and reconnecting, and the setting is purely festive.
Summary
By Winter’s Light begins with the youger generation of the Cynster clan have arrived to Casphairn Manor, which is Richard and Catriona Cynster’s place of residence. Daniel Crosbie, the tutor to Lucifer’s Cynster’s son nand Claire Meadows, govern to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter are drawn together during this festive time. Daniel and Claire have known each other previously, and there is an attraction between them. Daniel is looking to win the hand of Claire, but Claire had a ot great marriage the first time around and isn’t eager to participate in it once again. But Daniel and Cynster younglings are determined to bring these two together with a level of matchmaking. We see another story prop up with Lucilla to help with childbirth with the other Cynster’s aiding her in bringing about the miracle of a child being born. Will Daniel be able to convince Claire that they are meant to be together and overcome her fears?
What I Loved
There were quite a few things about this one that I actually enjoyed. I loved the authenticity element to the time period and the way in which the author really capitalized on the culture of the Christmas season. You see the richness that is displayed. We also get some wonderful family dynamics and I was having so much fun getting back with the Cynsters. I do think that the Christmas/Winter theme will work for quite a few. The romance that is developed is quite sweet and endearing and I really enjoyed Daniel’s devotion and determination to win over Claire’s hand. I was really drawn into the charm and elegance that is displayed and the writing stye that is so clearly a “Stephanie Laurens” signature.
What I Struggled With
While there were quite a few things that I enjoyed, there was also some aspects to this story that just didn’t quite work out or me. Quite frankly, I was mostly bored with this story. I had to really force myself to keep going with this book and just pushed the speed faster on the arration to get through it.. I wasn’t too invested in the romance, I wasn’t a fan of Claire’s character and it felt choppy at moments. I didn’t quite get the separate storylines that happen in this story, and would have wished for more focus on the actual romance between Daniel and Claire. I felt like they didn’t get the story that they deserved here, It also could be the author’s writing style just doesn’t work for me anymore, as I have grown pickier with historicals. As I know there were some readers that really enjoyed this one. At the end of the day, I just don’t think that it was for me.
The Narration
Despite my reservationsm, I really do feel like the narration was well done on this one here. The narrator really captured on the character’s personalities, and the level of excitement and magic of the Christmas season in this story. I would definitely listen to him again.
Overall View
By Winter’s Light is a magical tale of renewing love, endearing familial connections and a sense of renewal and fresh starts!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
By Winter’s Light is the first book in the Cynster New Generation series and is also a holiday romance that is set in the Victorian Era as its year 1837. I have been wanting to read this one for the longest time and I have been wanting to explore more of this author’s work. She isn’t an author that I want to read all at once though because I know sometimes her books can feel the same (some author’s writing styles are like this so its intelligent to space them out). I was really intrigued with the setup of the story, as I do love a good unrequited love or intentions of marriage. There is also a Christmas theme to this story and I can’t tell you how much I adore this cover. There is such a magical theme to it. It really fits the Christmas setting. And one thing you can truly depend on with Stephanie Laurens is that her books are so authentic to the era. I love the realism feel to it, with the combination of culture and society and history that she is able to implement. But it also means that you need to be more patient as she takes the time for the description and captures the scene. The romance is charming, the characters and reconnecting, and the setting is purely festive.
Summary
By Winter’s Light begins with the youger generation of the Cynster clan have arrived to Casphairn Manor, which is Richard and Catriona Cynster’s place of residence. Daniel Crosbie, the tutor to Lucifer’s Cynster’s son nand Claire Meadows, govern to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter are drawn together during this festive time. Daniel and Claire have known each other previously, and there is an attraction between them. Daniel is looking to win the hand of Claire, but Claire had a ot great marriage the first time around and isn’t eager to participate in it once again. But Daniel and Cynster younglings are determined to bring these two together with a level of matchmaking. We see another story prop up with Lucilla to help with childbirth with the other Cynster’s aiding her in bringing about the miracle of a child being born. Will Daniel be able to convince Claire that they are meant to be together and overcome her fears?
What I Loved
There were quite a few things about this one that I actually enjoyed. I loved the authenticity element to the time period and the way in which the author really capitalized on the culture of the Christmas season. You see the richness that is displayed. We also get some wonderful family dynamics and I was having so much fun getting back with the Cynsters. I do think that the Christmas/Winter theme will work for quite a few. The romance that is developed is quite sweet and endearing and I really enjoyed Daniel’s devotion and determination to win over Claire’s hand. I was really drawn into the charm and elegance that is displayed and the writing stye that is so clearly a “Stephanie Laurens” signature.
What I Struggled With
While there were quite a few things that I enjoyed, there was also some aspects to this story that just didn’t quite work out or me. Quite frankly, I was mostly bored with this story. I had to really force myself to keep going with this book and just pushed the speed faster on the arration to get through it.. I wasn’t too invested in the romance, I wasn’t a fan of Claire’s character and it felt choppy at moments. I didn’t quite get the separate storylines that happen in this story, and would have wished for more focus on the actual romance between Daniel and Claire. I felt like they didn’t get the story that they deserved here, It also could be the author’s writing style just doesn’t work for me anymore, as I have grown pickier with historicals. As I know there were some readers that really enjoyed this one. At the end of the day, I just don’t think that it was for me.
The Narration
Despite my reservationsm, I really do feel like the narration was well done on this one here. The narrator really captured on the character’s personalities, and the level of excitement and magic of the Christmas season in this story. I would definitely listen to him again.
Overall View
By Winter’s Light is a magical tale of renewing love, endearing familial connections and a sense of renewal and fresh starts!
July 7, 2015
3.5 Stars! How exciting, moving on toward the next generation of Cynsters! Couldn't resist grabbing my copy as soon as it came out.
Happily, my reading buddies joined in for this one. I was behind, started a couple days late, but it's all good.
This story went by quickly. I really enjoyed seeing the different holiday traditions that were shown, the gathering of the greenery, the decorating and the Yule logs, the mistletoe. It was nice, and I liked how the deep bonds of the large Cynster clan added to the whole feel of it all. While at first a bit confusing trying to figure out who all the young ones belonged to, I liked getting to see so much of the children in this one. Seeing their developing personalities, and with the older ones, how they're preparing to take on the world. Lucilla, daughter of Richard and Catriona, twin sister of Marcus, especially played a large role. Her very own story is coming up next, so this served as a good introduction to her character, and in a smaller measure, that of her brother, and her closest-in-age cousins Sebastian (Devil's heir), Prudence (Demon's eldest daughter), Christopher (Vane's son), and Michael (Devil's other son). Glimpses into the other children abounded as well, but these eldest ones formed a band of their own, and are well on their way to becoming intriguing characters ready for their own tales.
The main couple of the romance part of the story were both nice, likable characters. Daniel Crosbie, soon to be finished with his job of tutoring Lucifer's sons, has just received a promotion to amanuensis to Lucifer in his work. He decides at long last he's in the right situation to start a family of his own, and has his sights set on the widowed Claire Meadows, governess to Gabriel's daughters. Due to the close family ties among the Cynsters, these two have been thrown together at gatherings for years, and Daniel's long had a tendre for Claire. He thinks no one has noticed, but the family proves that they've known all along, and that they're willing to help him in his quest. I liked how Helena and the girls all conspired to help, and the mistletoe scene had me smiling when all the older Cynster couples took advantage of it. Claire however, has some hangups that prevent her from feeling like she can accept Daniel's suit, and I could understand her reasons once they were explained. Thankfully, with some nudging, she soon comes to her senses and realizes that what they feel is worth trying for. Their romance was cute and sweet, and I liked how it added to feel-good atmosphere of the story.
This was a nice addition to the series, and a good bridge to the next generation's upcoming stories. I'm looking forward to them!
Happily, my reading buddies joined in for this one. I was behind, started a couple days late, but it's all good.
This story went by quickly. I really enjoyed seeing the different holiday traditions that were shown, the gathering of the greenery, the decorating and the Yule logs, the mistletoe. It was nice, and I liked how the deep bonds of the large Cynster clan added to the whole feel of it all. While at first a bit confusing trying to figure out who all the young ones belonged to, I liked getting to see so much of the children in this one. Seeing their developing personalities, and with the older ones, how they're preparing to take on the world. Lucilla, daughter of Richard and Catriona, twin sister of Marcus, especially played a large role. Her very own story is coming up next, so this served as a good introduction to her character, and in a smaller measure, that of her brother, and her closest-in-age cousins Sebastian (Devil's heir), Prudence (Demon's eldest daughter), Christopher (Vane's son), and Michael (Devil's other son). Glimpses into the other children abounded as well, but these eldest ones formed a band of their own, and are well on their way to becoming intriguing characters ready for their own tales.
The main couple of the romance part of the story were both nice, likable characters. Daniel Crosbie, soon to be finished with his job of tutoring Lucifer's sons, has just received a promotion to amanuensis to Lucifer in his work. He decides at long last he's in the right situation to start a family of his own, and has his sights set on the widowed Claire Meadows, governess to Gabriel's daughters. Due to the close family ties among the Cynsters, these two have been thrown together at gatherings for years, and Daniel's long had a tendre for Claire. He thinks no one has noticed, but the family proves that they've known all along, and that they're willing to help him in his quest. I liked how Helena and the girls all conspired to help, and the mistletoe scene had me smiling when all the older Cynster couples took advantage of it. Claire however, has some hangups that prevent her from feeling like she can accept Daniel's suit, and I could understand her reasons once they were explained. Thankfully, with some nudging, she soon comes to her senses and realizes that what they feel is worth trying for. Their romance was cute and sweet, and I liked how it added to feel-good atmosphere of the story.
This was a nice addition to the series, and a good bridge to the next generation's upcoming stories. I'm looking forward to them!
October 31, 2014
Good Prequel to Next Generation of Cynsters
Readers of BY WINTER'S LIGHT shouldn't be fooled. It is really a novella romance between a Cynster tutor and governess and an introduction to the next generation of Cynsters. The emphasis is on Lucilla Cynster whose book THE TEMPTING OF THOMAS CARRICK will be the first of the new generation.
THE STORY: It is 1837 and the Cynsters have gathered for Christmas at the home of Richard Cynster. Readers are introduced to the Cynster children and their tutors and governesses. Having reached the end of his tutor duties, Daniel Crosbie intends to ask Claire Meadows to marry him. Daniel has had his eye on Claire for years and now that his future seems secure, he is ready to make his move. Claire is a widow who doesn't intend to marry again. Christmas, however, is the season of miracles and Claire realizes that there is something about Daniel that makes her want to take a chance.
OPINION: This book is really about Lucilla and the others in the next generation. Lucilla meets up with the man who will be the hero in her book, Thomas Carrick. Honestly, I enjoyed the look into the Cynster family more than I cared about the romance between Daniel and Claire. That romance was adequate and seemed like a novella story, but I was much more interested in Lucilla, her brother Marcus, and Sebastian. I also really enjoyed seeing characters from the older generation.
WORTH MENTIONING: My favorite scenes were those few ones with Devil and Honoria who are still my favorite couple.
FINAL DECISION: Fans of the series will enjoy this book which is really a launching pad for the new generation. I don't think that anyone should start with this book because the multitudes of characters who readers are expected to know. The romance of the book is the plot device not a fully developed novel length romance.
CONNECTED BOOKS: BY WINTER'S LIGHT is the twenty-first book in the Cynster series. It is also a prequel to the next generation of Cynsters that starts with THE TEMPTING OF THOMAS CARRICK.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars. Fans of the series will be pleased.
Readers of BY WINTER'S LIGHT shouldn't be fooled. It is really a novella romance between a Cynster tutor and governess and an introduction to the next generation of Cynsters. The emphasis is on Lucilla Cynster whose book THE TEMPTING OF THOMAS CARRICK will be the first of the new generation.
THE STORY: It is 1837 and the Cynsters have gathered for Christmas at the home of Richard Cynster. Readers are introduced to the Cynster children and their tutors and governesses. Having reached the end of his tutor duties, Daniel Crosbie intends to ask Claire Meadows to marry him. Daniel has had his eye on Claire for years and now that his future seems secure, he is ready to make his move. Claire is a widow who doesn't intend to marry again. Christmas, however, is the season of miracles and Claire realizes that there is something about Daniel that makes her want to take a chance.
OPINION: This book is really about Lucilla and the others in the next generation. Lucilla meets up with the man who will be the hero in her book, Thomas Carrick. Honestly, I enjoyed the look into the Cynster family more than I cared about the romance between Daniel and Claire. That romance was adequate and seemed like a novella story, but I was much more interested in Lucilla, her brother Marcus, and Sebastian. I also really enjoyed seeing characters from the older generation.
WORTH MENTIONING: My favorite scenes were those few ones with Devil and Honoria who are still my favorite couple.
FINAL DECISION: Fans of the series will enjoy this book which is really a launching pad for the new generation. I don't think that anyone should start with this book because the multitudes of characters who readers are expected to know. The romance of the book is the plot device not a fully developed novel length romance.
CONNECTED BOOKS: BY WINTER'S LIGHT is the twenty-first book in the Cynster series. It is also a prequel to the next generation of Cynsters that starts with THE TEMPTING OF THOMAS CARRICK.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars. Fans of the series will be pleased.
October 9, 2016
9/10 - Meh. The sex wasn't as purple as some of her other Cynster books, but as there was only one true sex scene it was enough. I liked seeing the very beginning of Lucilla and Thomas' story, but what I saw as the potential for their romance in this book was completely lost in the book that was actually focused on them. So, knowing how all that potential was squandered made their side-story a bit bittersweet for me.
The main hero and heroine of the story (Daniel and Claire) weren't really the main characters, there was such a large cast that the whole book had more of an ensemble feeling to it with The Cynster Clan playing the part of a character as a whole as well as individually. Daniel is the tutor to the boys from one branch of the family, while Claire is the governess to the girls of another branch of the family. Because the different branches regularly get together for holidays and celebrations Daniel's had plenty of opportunity to meet and fall in love with Claire, but to begin with Claire's not interested. She's a widow who doesn't want to risk getting involved with another man and spends most of the book trying to deter and/or avoid Daniel, but Daniel's persistent and eventually (after a heroic act) he manages to convince her to explain the truth behind her reluctance. Finally the only sex scene happens in about the second last chapter and while, like I said above, the sex wasn't as bad as it could have been it really wasn't particularly interesting, or sexy, or steamy, or hot, or any of the other adjectives you want to see being used in the review of a romance.
When it comes to me, Laurens seems to have about a million chances because no matter how disappointed I have been in her last six (or so) books I keep picking them up at the library. I can't seem to help myself. -_- Expect to see further, probably disappointed reviews of her future books.
The main hero and heroine of the story (Daniel and Claire) weren't really the main characters, there was such a large cast that the whole book had more of an ensemble feeling to it with The Cynster Clan playing the part of a character as a whole as well as individually. Daniel is the tutor to the boys from one branch of the family, while Claire is the governess to the girls of another branch of the family. Because the different branches regularly get together for holidays and celebrations Daniel's had plenty of opportunity to meet and fall in love with Claire, but to begin with Claire's not interested. She's a widow who doesn't want to risk getting involved with another man and spends most of the book trying to deter and/or avoid Daniel, but Daniel's persistent and eventually (after a heroic act) he manages to convince her to explain the truth behind her reluctance. Finally the only sex scene happens in about the second last chapter and while, like I said above, the sex wasn't as bad as it could have been it really wasn't particularly interesting, or sexy, or steamy, or hot, or any of the other adjectives you want to see being used in the review of a romance.
When it comes to me, Laurens seems to have about a million chances because no matter how disappointed I have been in her last six (or so) books I keep picking them up at the library. I can't seem to help myself. -_- Expect to see further, probably disappointed reviews of her future books.
November 14, 2017
I've been wanting to try Stephanie Laurens out for awhile, and when I saw the holiday list on Hoopla, I thought, what better time? I love themed reads, especially holiday-themed stories with all the romance and festivities. But this one was just, well...nothing happened for the longest. And it was just so slow. Was this supposed to be more of a novella, like a bridge between the real couples featured in the series? If so, it should definitely have been shorter.
May 10, 2021
Cute story about the Cynster governess and tutor falling in love over the Christmas holiday!
October 6, 2017
"By Winter's Light" is the story of Claire and Daniel..and the rest of the Cynster Clan.
When the mighty Cynsters unite for Christmas, adventures and love are bound to happen. Here we have the sweet wooing of Claire Meadows, widow and governess to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter, and Daniel Crosbie, tutor to Lucifer Cynster’s sons- who has always found her fascinating and finally decides to make her his.
This book also introduces us to the next generation of our favorite kids, small snippets of our beloved pairs and grandmothers, an unexpected birth and a lovely Christmas.
Safe
3/5
When the mighty Cynsters unite for Christmas, adventures and love are bound to happen. Here we have the sweet wooing of Claire Meadows, widow and governess to Gabriel Cynster’s daughter, and Daniel Crosbie, tutor to Lucifer Cynster’s sons- who has always found her fascinating and finally decides to make her his.
This book also introduces us to the next generation of our favorite kids, small snippets of our beloved pairs and grandmothers, an unexpected birth and a lovely Christmas.
Safe
3/5
October 18, 2014
I loved this story. Ms Laurens' books always enthrall and enchant me and when I pick up her books to read, I'm always amazed that I whizz through them so rapidly. It's not that I get bored with the tale, but that I get so engrossed with it.
Another brilliant keeper!
Another brilliant keeper!
September 1, 2020
3 stars.
It's been 5 years since I read this book. I thought this would be where I can start my refresh to catch up with the next Cynster generation. The Christmas setting allows for all the original Bar Cynsters to get together as well as their progeny and introduces the readers to all the Cynster children from the late teens downwards, and there are a lot of them!!!
The romance is actually between a tutor and a governess who both work for different members of the Bar Cynsters and their romance is helped along by the younger Cynster girls and Helena, the Dowager Duchess.
I'm sticking with the 3 stars rating mainly because it's like an introductory book to the next generation of Cynsters. Moreover, it's a bit depressing listening to Helena ruminating about how she probably won't be around to see these kids getting married. And the fact that the Bar Cynsters are now all comfortably in their middle age! Makes me feel quite old myself when I realise how long ago it was that I first read Devil's Bride!
It's been 5 years since I read this book. I thought this would be where I can start my refresh to catch up with the next Cynster generation. The Christmas setting allows for all the original Bar Cynsters to get together as well as their progeny and introduces the readers to all the Cynster children from the late teens downwards, and there are a lot of them!!!
The romance is actually between a tutor and a governess who both work for different members of the Bar Cynsters and their romance is helped along by the younger Cynster girls and Helena, the Dowager Duchess.
I'm sticking with the 3 stars rating mainly because it's like an introductory book to the next generation of Cynsters. Moreover, it's a bit depressing listening to Helena ruminating about how she probably won't be around to see these kids getting married. And the fact that the Bar Cynsters are now all comfortably in their middle age! Makes me feel quite old myself when I realise how long ago it was that I first read Devil's Bride!
May 15, 2019
These Cynsters are always fun to read about
February 22, 2015
Excellent addition to the Cynster series, even though the main romance isn't between Cynsters, but two of their staff members. Daniel has long been drawn to Claire, but as a tutor whose charges are about to age out of his care, he hasn't felt in a position to support a wife. Just before Christmas, his employer asked him to stay on as his assistant in the antiquities business. This gives Daniel the impetus he needs to make his case to Claire. He's nervous because, while he believes his feelings are returned, he isn't positive.
Claire has sensed his feelings, and is not sure what to do. Her marriage was not the best, and left her not trusting men and what they say they want, nor her own feelings around them. Her mind tells her to say no to furthering their relationship, but her heart isn't listening.
I loved seeing the relationship develop between them. They had been friends before, as all the governesses and tutors are. Their exposure to the Cynsters, and seeing the obvious love among all the couples is a great example, and Daniel especially sees it as the model for what he wants. His first attempt to speak to Claire doesn't go that well, as she is spooked by her feelings. Her uncertainty leaves the door open for Daniel to do his best to persuade her. I loved the fact that he didn't just bulldoze over her fears, but addressed them, making her look at things in a different way. I loved seeing how his love helped her overcome them and see that happiness is possible for her after all.
One of the really fun things about the book was seeing the help that Daniel had along the way. He thought that he had hidden his feelings from others very well, but Cynsters are a remarkably observant family. I loved seeing the way that the group of teen girls, led by Louisa, made sure that both Daniel and Claire went on the green cutting expedition, and how the girls made it their mission to sneak some mistletoe into the mix. I loved seeing how they were helped along by the Dowager Duchess, and her interest in helping the couple. It was fun seeing how nervous Daniel and Claire were about telling their employers of their plans, and how stunned they were by what happened. The scene in the library was perfectly Cynster-like and I loved how it turned out.
Another main part of the book was the chance to get to know the next generation of Cynsters. The older kids, just reaching adulthood, were given the chance to show what they were made of during their Christmas Eve explorations. With it being their home turf, Lucilla and Marcus had the biggest roles to play. I especially enjoyed seeing Lucilla's actions during the crisis, and how her training as Lady-in-waiting was so critical. As with her parents' story, Scandal's Bride, the importance of the land around her is an integral part of who she is. The arrival of a neighbor to help foreshadows what looks to be in her future. I'm really looking forward to the next books in the series.
Claire has sensed his feelings, and is not sure what to do. Her marriage was not the best, and left her not trusting men and what they say they want, nor her own feelings around them. Her mind tells her to say no to furthering their relationship, but her heart isn't listening.
I loved seeing the relationship develop between them. They had been friends before, as all the governesses and tutors are. Their exposure to the Cynsters, and seeing the obvious love among all the couples is a great example, and Daniel especially sees it as the model for what he wants. His first attempt to speak to Claire doesn't go that well, as she is spooked by her feelings. Her uncertainty leaves the door open for Daniel to do his best to persuade her. I loved the fact that he didn't just bulldoze over her fears, but addressed them, making her look at things in a different way. I loved seeing how his love helped her overcome them and see that happiness is possible for her after all.
One of the really fun things about the book was seeing the help that Daniel had along the way. He thought that he had hidden his feelings from others very well, but Cynsters are a remarkably observant family. I loved seeing the way that the group of teen girls, led by Louisa, made sure that both Daniel and Claire went on the green cutting expedition, and how the girls made it their mission to sneak some mistletoe into the mix. I loved seeing how they were helped along by the Dowager Duchess, and her interest in helping the couple. It was fun seeing how nervous Daniel and Claire were about telling their employers of their plans, and how stunned they were by what happened. The scene in the library was perfectly Cynster-like and I loved how it turned out.
Another main part of the book was the chance to get to know the next generation of Cynsters. The older kids, just reaching adulthood, were given the chance to show what they were made of during their Christmas Eve explorations. With it being their home turf, Lucilla and Marcus had the biggest roles to play. I especially enjoyed seeing Lucilla's actions during the crisis, and how her training as Lady-in-waiting was so critical. As with her parents' story, Scandal's Bride, the importance of the land around her is an integral part of who she is. The arrival of a neighbor to help foreshadows what looks to be in her future. I'm really looking forward to the next books in the series.
January 8, 2015
No one should have to read 75% of a Stephanie Laurens book without a sex scene. Especially not when there's no mystery to support the parts between sex scenes. Even more the case when a large chunk of the book is setup for the next book. I suppose she felt she needed a book between those about the ones who were alive in Devil's Bride and those with the children of the Bar Cynster and their relations, but she really didn't. The age difference between the girls in the Trilogy and Duo and Lucilla and Marcus is negligible. The story of the holiday was sweet, I suppose, but really, this should have been a much shorter novella.
November 11, 2014
As a bridge book to tie the older generation to a new playing field (the sons and daughters of all the previous couples), I suppose By Winter's Light did its job. I just couldn't ever get the slightest bit interested in tutor Daniel Crosbie and governess Claire Meadows. Now if there's a finishing governess coming up in a future book -- hello Honoria -- that might be fun.
I did enjoy Lucilla and Marcus and Sebastian and Louisa -- they all had that special Cynster something and I would have rated this *** if the story had been about them.
Of course, Laurens is a drug, crack of the crack for me, so anything she writes, I will read :) Looking forward to Lucilla's story.
I did enjoy Lucilla and Marcus and Sebastian and Louisa -- they all had that special Cynster something and I would have rated this *** if the story had been about them.
Of course, Laurens is a drug, crack of the crack for me, so anything she writes, I will read :) Looking forward to Lucilla's story.
November 9, 2014
I absolutely loved this book! The Cynsters have been one of my favorite Regency families since I picked up my first Stephanie Laurens book! I absolutely loved all the Holiday traditions and the romance that happened in between all the lead ins to the next story's. I absolutely cannot wait for Lucilla's and Marcus's stories to get here! ALready pre ordered and waiting for release. I will also be interested to see if the next generation's stories will be as wonderful as all the previous! Kudos to you Miss Stephanie! I will continue to read your stories as long as you are willing to write them!
March 29, 2019
Bland! From a long time auto buy author. Having stopped reading this series at the end of the original first generation of Cynsters (book #20) simply because the timing of the second generation would be twenty years in the future and no longer my favourite historical period. But, it is Stephanie Laurens, so five years after publication I decided to begin the series. So very disappointing. Nothing happened! The set up for the next couple (which I did enjoy) took up more time than the couple whose HEA was happening at the time. Neither of the two strands dominated leaving me with the feeling of a filler or set up book for the next generation, a means by which to introduce all the children, who now are late teens and will feature as adults in the spinoff series. Disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2019
Une note aussi ... tiède que j'ai trouvé le récit, du mal à croire que c'est du même auteur que la série Cynster initiale oO Sérieusement il ne se passe ... rien et on peine à croire aux sentiments des 2 personnages.
November 22, 2022
I was really impressed by the dual story lines, how they crossed every now and again, and how they came together to put the bow on at the end. First book for me by SL but I've already purchased 3 more! Excited to dig I to this huge series and branches of family series.
July 6, 2018
This is my first Cynster novel, and it doesn't look like there are very many at the library. I counted three when I saw this one. It's probably for the best in my case, since I very rarely enjoy sagas. I get overwhelmed by large families and generations.
However, I was pleasantly surprised to find I enjoyed this book, even before I could tell any of the characters apart.
It did help that there was a guide to characters at the beginning of the book. I really wish all books had this, as well as an index and a pronunciation guide....
I found it entertaining that the family name is "Cynster," and there are characters named Devil, Demon, and Lucifer. I enjoy irreverent humor like that, as long as it's not too disrespectful. There's something mischievous in the whole thing, like someone who likes to play harmless pranks. I would definitely be interested in learning how, exactly, these characters earned these nicknames.
The main couple in this story does not actually consist of Cynsters, but a family tutor and governess. I couldn't help but notice that the other tutors and governesses are referred to as "confirmed bachelor/spinster." How is that "confirmed," exactly? Because they're too old to be married? Or did they make a formal vow to never marry? I privately interpreted this to mean "gay/lesbian," but somehow I doubt that was the author's intent. It would be great if it was, though. Maybe they were secretly hooking up with some of the other unmarried characters.
Claire Meadows is a widow who has feelings for Daniel Crosbie, whom she suspects is planning to propose to her. However, Claire has decided that she can "never love again," and is determined to discourage his advances. She's not the only one who's aware of his intentions, either.
To be honest, I both liked and disliked the romance story. Old-fashioned courtship can be romantic, and I know that times were different back then--"proper" ladies were discouraged from speaking their feelings outright, so men felt they had the right to keep persisting and sort of push a little for a woman to say "yes." But I just couldn't get out of my 21st-century, feminist worldview. I'll forgive little comments about women needing to be protected, or even old-fashioned phrases like "the fair sex." Even the occasional benevolent sexism is something I can look past, but it made me a bit uncomfortable how Daniel continued to pursue Claire despite what he perceived to be reluctance on her point. He even thinks to himself that reluctance can be overcome.
As it turns out, he's right. Claire is genuinely interested in him, but she feels she must rebuff him because she feels she can't truly love him, due to what happened in the past. Whenever he confesses interest in her, she responds by gasping like a fish out of water as she tries to weakly reject him. At one point, she asks what he'll do if she says no, and he says, "Then I'll keep trying until you say yes."
Now, I understand the fantasy. Many people enjoy the *idea* of having a partner who magically knows what they want, and breaks through any barriers of false reluctance. This sends the message that they really, really want you, and they somehow know that you want them, too, because you have some special soul connection and it's all very romantic.
But there are reasons why these are called "fantasies." In this case, it wouldn't work in real life. In fact, in real life, plenty of people *do* feel perfectly entitled to badger you until you say yes. Think of pick-up artists. They tell men that they need to be a little forceful, because that's what we women want. Have you heard of creepy men who won't leave a woman alone, who insist that she really does want him as much as he wants her, who say they'll never stop pursuing her until she says yes? Maybe you know someone who had that happened to her. Maybe you're one of those unfortunate women yourself. Or maybe you're a man who's received that sort of treatment.
Every time Daniel thinks to himself that he knows Claire is attracted to him, I thought, "But what if she wasn't? You can't assume that you know what's inside your head. Maybe she's just nervous because of the way you act around her. Maybe she's a little flustered because she thinks you're attractive, but she doesn't want to marry you. You don't *know*."
Even so, I couldn't actually get mad at this book. Compared to some of the crap I've seen in some other books, this wasn't too bad. I just hope everyone who reads it understands that this isn't how an ideal romantic partner acts.
There's a sex scene in this book. When I began reading it, I told people, "It's a romance, but it's kind of...family romance." Hoo boy, was I ever wrong. There is nothing family friendly about this book! There was a fade-to-black scene about halfway, or maybe three-quarters, through the book. But , there is a seriously *steamy* sex scene. I was glad to be alone when I read it--I almost jumped out of my chair! So be forewarned.
As far as the story goes, I actually preferred the story of Lucilla and Marcus' hunting party to the main romance story. As others have noted, there is a set-up for what will become, I imagine, a coupling between Lucilla and Thomas Carrick, a man I initially thought was in his 30s (I'm not sure why), but turned out to be only a couple of years older than Lucilla. I was glad, because I much prefer couples with minimal age gaps.
There's a whole subplot about Lucilla delivering her first baby--I don't consider this a spoiler, because the character guide gives it away--and it was surprisingly intense. These were in the days before epidural analgesia, and women were just expected to tough it out when giving birth. The best the midwife could do was prepare some sort of tincture (or maybe just a drink of brandy) and deliver the child as quickly as possible without causing harm to it or the mother. I was impressed by how competent Lucilla was at age 17!
Another thing I enjoyed was reading about the observations and commentary of the oldest members of the household. Living for such a long time changes one's view, I imagine. It was comforting, somehow, reading about them, and honestly, I can definitely see the appeal of having such a large family and being able to see the fruits of your (literal) labors. It must be nice to know what your place is, and be content with it.
And the food...one of my favorite things about these kinds of books is the lavish description of various kinds of food and drink, and how much the characters enjoy partaking of them. The descriptions made my mouth water, although the constant reminder of what big eaters all the boys and men were was kind of silly (Only boys eat a lot! Girls just daintily pick at their food!). I didn't even know what some of the food was, and I doubted I would like most of it, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
This is probably the sort of series that you might want to read in order, from the very beginning. But if you don't intend to read the whole thing, this is as good a book to begin with as any, I think. I'll let you know what I think of the others I saw at the library if/when I read them.
However, I was pleasantly surprised to find I enjoyed this book, even before I could tell any of the characters apart.
It did help that there was a guide to characters at the beginning of the book. I really wish all books had this, as well as an index and a pronunciation guide....
I found it entertaining that the family name is "Cynster," and there are characters named Devil, Demon, and Lucifer. I enjoy irreverent humor like that, as long as it's not too disrespectful. There's something mischievous in the whole thing, like someone who likes to play harmless pranks. I would definitely be interested in learning how, exactly, these characters earned these nicknames.
The main couple in this story does not actually consist of Cynsters, but a family tutor and governess. I couldn't help but notice that the other tutors and governesses are referred to as "confirmed bachelor/spinster." How is that "confirmed," exactly? Because they're too old to be married? Or did they make a formal vow to never marry? I privately interpreted this to mean "gay/lesbian," but somehow I doubt that was the author's intent. It would be great if it was, though. Maybe they were secretly hooking up with some of the other unmarried characters.
Claire Meadows is a widow who has feelings for Daniel Crosbie, whom she suspects is planning to propose to her. However, Claire has decided that she can "never love again," and is determined to discourage his advances. She's not the only one who's aware of his intentions, either.
To be honest, I both liked and disliked the romance story. Old-fashioned courtship can be romantic, and I know that times were different back then--"proper" ladies were discouraged from speaking their feelings outright, so men felt they had the right to keep persisting and sort of push a little for a woman to say "yes." But I just couldn't get out of my 21st-century, feminist worldview. I'll forgive little comments about women needing to be protected, or even old-fashioned phrases like "the fair sex." Even the occasional benevolent sexism is something I can look past, but it made me a bit uncomfortable how Daniel continued to pursue Claire despite what he perceived to be reluctance on her point. He even thinks to himself that reluctance can be overcome.
As it turns out, he's right. Claire is genuinely interested in him, but she feels she must rebuff him because she feels she can't truly love him, due to what happened in the past. Whenever he confesses interest in her, she responds by gasping like a fish out of water as she tries to weakly reject him. At one point, she asks what he'll do if she says no, and he says, "Then I'll keep trying until you say yes."
Now, I understand the fantasy. Many people enjoy the *idea* of having a partner who magically knows what they want, and breaks through any barriers of false reluctance. This sends the message that they really, really want you, and they somehow know that you want them, too, because you have some special soul connection and it's all very romantic.
But there are reasons why these are called "fantasies." In this case, it wouldn't work in real life. In fact, in real life, plenty of people *do* feel perfectly entitled to badger you until you say yes. Think of pick-up artists. They tell men that they need to be a little forceful, because that's what we women want. Have you heard of creepy men who won't leave a woman alone, who insist that she really does want him as much as he wants her, who say they'll never stop pursuing her until she says yes? Maybe you know someone who had that happened to her. Maybe you're one of those unfortunate women yourself. Or maybe you're a man who's received that sort of treatment.
Every time Daniel thinks to himself that he knows Claire is attracted to him, I thought, "But what if she wasn't? You can't assume that you know what's inside your head. Maybe she's just nervous because of the way you act around her. Maybe she's a little flustered because she thinks you're attractive, but she doesn't want to marry you. You don't *know*."
Even so, I couldn't actually get mad at this book. Compared to some of the crap I've seen in some other books, this wasn't too bad. I just hope everyone who reads it understands that this isn't how an ideal romantic partner acts.
There's a sex scene in this book. When I began reading it, I told people, "It's a romance, but it's kind of...family romance." Hoo boy, was I ever wrong. There is nothing family friendly about this book! There was a fade-to-black scene about halfway, or maybe three-quarters, through the book. But , there is a seriously *steamy* sex scene. I was glad to be alone when I read it--I almost jumped out of my chair! So be forewarned.
As far as the story goes, I actually preferred the story of Lucilla and Marcus' hunting party to the main romance story. As others have noted, there is a set-up for what will become, I imagine, a coupling between Lucilla and Thomas Carrick, a man I initially thought was in his 30s (I'm not sure why), but turned out to be only a couple of years older than Lucilla. I was glad, because I much prefer couples with minimal age gaps.
There's a whole subplot about Lucilla delivering her first baby--I don't consider this a spoiler, because the character guide gives it away--and it was surprisingly intense. These were in the days before epidural analgesia, and women were just expected to tough it out when giving birth. The best the midwife could do was prepare some sort of tincture (or maybe just a drink of brandy) and deliver the child as quickly as possible without causing harm to it or the mother. I was impressed by how competent Lucilla was at age 17!
Another thing I enjoyed was reading about the observations and commentary of the oldest members of the household. Living for such a long time changes one's view, I imagine. It was comforting, somehow, reading about them, and honestly, I can definitely see the appeal of having such a large family and being able to see the fruits of your (literal) labors. It must be nice to know what your place is, and be content with it.
And the food...one of my favorite things about these kinds of books is the lavish description of various kinds of food and drink, and how much the characters enjoy partaking of them. The descriptions made my mouth water, although the constant reminder of what big eaters all the boys and men were was kind of silly (Only boys eat a lot! Girls just daintily pick at their food!). I didn't even know what some of the food was, and I doubted I would like most of it, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
This is probably the sort of series that you might want to read in order, from the very beginning. But if you don't intend to read the whole thing, this is as good a book to begin with as any, I think. I'll let you know what I think of the others I saw at the library if/when I read them.
October 11, 2014
This is the first book I have read about the Cynster family. Which I liked but I could tell I might have liked it more if I had read the prior novels or at least some of the prior novels. Then I would have established a relationship with the family and the children. There were just so many to try and keep straight in my head who was who. Although I did think that the romance between Daniel and Claire was sweet and charming. Besides all of the many characters, I did feel like the book was a bit too long. It seemed like scenes would go on and on and never really moved along at a steady pace. On the bright side, I thought the author built a nice world and backdrop for the book.
November 10, 2014
I really enjoyed the romance between Claire and Daniel. I think the story is a good christmas read.
I gived the book 3 stars because i felt like some part of the book were dragging on a little and it is hard to keep track of all the familly members if you have never read a Cynster novel before.
I gived the book 3 stars because i felt like some part of the book were dragging on a little and it is hard to keep track of all the familly members if you have never read a Cynster novel before.
October 29, 2014
By Winter's Light was a great introduction to the next generation of the Cynsters. I haven't read the Cynsters in a while and it was great to dive back into their world and see how the family is going! I loved revisiting the original 6 couples, and see that things haven't changed :)
Very much looking forward to reading about the next generation!
Very much looking forward to reading about the next generation!
September 11, 2016
All six Cynster families together for Christmas and New Year, now their children are growing up, so maybe a new series of the next generation to come I hope.
March 12, 2018
A very boring 2 stars.
This year I made a pact to go through my to-read list and try to find books that I've wanted to read for years. While doing so I came across this that I've wanted to read since 2014. I read the summary and got so confused I re-read it to see if I could make any more sense of it. I could not follow what was being said, already got lost with all the names that were dumped out. When I can't understand a summary, I know there must be something wrong with the book. If you can't find a way to describe the book without confusing people then the book must be really hard to understand. I've never read the Cynsters series but by seeing "Cynster #21" I could tell it was a long, ongoing series with a slew of characters to keep track of, as the summary indicated, and a big family like other books I've read. I had no idea how this book got on my to-read list in the first place and wasn't sure I even hit to-read. When I read Claire was a widow I was turned off. I hate widows, can't stand when a character has been married before. It's really off-putting.
I opened the book and was met with 3 "Cast of Characters" pages. If you have to put a list of all of the characters with descriptions of them, then that's too many characters. I know books like that, you have to keep flipping back to the front to remind yourself who it is you're reading about. And every description of a character led to at least one other character. It was like going around in ever-looping circles. I'd read a character, who would lead to someone they were related to, then I'd have to go back and look at who they were. I'd read another character and would have to look up the person they were related to. It was like doing a research project.
I found the nicknames to be really modern and just weird. Scandal. Devil. Demon. Vane. Flick. Lucifer. Medy. Mad Manachan.
It was incredibly modern that Claire described Daniel as having an athlete's body. In a time where there weren't any such things as an athlete-it was not a profession-how can you think to use that phrase?
I hate when the character is the help, but I've never read a romance where they both are. It's exceedingly boring. Having the cool kids be at the head table and having all the help discuss what to do to entertain the kids was awful in comparison. Claire asking about the "younger lot," and Melinda saying the older girls are a "close-knit clique." Claire asked what sort of greenery, where to get it, and how much they needed to decorate. Snooze fest. I was like what the heck am I reading? It smacked of the 21st century and was oh so boring.
The author didn't seem to know how improper it is to have a female child say "riding hell-for-leather." Hell is akin to cussing.
The touch of the supernatural was just too much. Lucille had a touch of the Vale, just like her mom, the Lady of the Vale, meaning she gets premonitions. The man she's with or the male head of the family is the Guardian of the Lady. It was weird.
I liked the tradition of putting the Yule log in on Christmas Eve and burning a fire until the New Year. The face of Cailleach, the spirit of winter, was carved into the log.
They made sunburst shortbread, cakes that were shaped like a ring, with a hole in the middle and lines on the top to represent the sun's rays, to call the sun back into their lives. It evolved into round pieces of shortbread with a circle in the middle and rays drawn out from it.
I hate when they have things for convenience, esp involving using kids to throw two adults together. Louisa asks for a gentleman to come with them, because at 14 she's figured out the boughs might be out of reach or too heavy, and the sled will be too heavy with all of the boughs in it. How mature a thought..And to have all of the adults admire her matchmaking skills, talking about a future romance, was annoying. Was it rly proper to discuss another couple's romance like that? It went on to become even more bothersome. Louisa wanted to get mistletoe and Therese immediately caught on as to why, and them all of the girls were taking about playing Cupid to them. Let me tell you that as someone who was a kid more recently than the author was, no child would notice two adults who do nothing more than occasionally glance at each other like each other, much less hatch a plan to put them together. It's so unrealistic to the point of stupid.
The predicaments authors get their characters in all in the name of throwing them together are so ridiculous. Louisa was using the saw to cut down a branch and Claire was holding the branch. The saw stuck and Louisa got Daniel to finish. It was one thing after another. He had to get into the boughs, Claire had to bend the branch, then let go once the saw was out, then turn away from his hatchet which caused her shoulder to be into his back somehow, then hold onto the branch to steady it, then they were both stuck on the branches. Daniel deduced that they had to go out together or they would get stuck. They had to lift the limb and her go out first and then and him follow. Whatever you say.
It was sweet how he told her she might have some interest in him being offered a new position as Alasdair's assistant once Jason went off to Eton. It provided a stipend, enough for a wife and family.
I came to realize that she's one of those authors who go into every little, minor, minute, trivial, unimportant detail. Every single tiny action that a character could possibly make in an instance is described in the most mind-numbing detail that it practically bores tears out of your eyes. I kept screaming MOVE THE FREAK ON. Every. Little. Thing.
Idk if the author realizes how wrong and historically inaccurate it was to have the kids-these are well-bred kids of the nobility-know how to patch up a cabin. How would they have any experience using tools at all much less to help construct a home? They're gently bred; they would never encounter manual labor like a servant. Don't even get me started on 17 year old Lucilla going to assist a childbirth and having been trained in midwifing. Having her siblings and cousins in the house while a birth took place was so inappropriate. And there again, a noble girl helping to deliver a baby. I didn't know what world this was. And also, why would Daniel suggest that Carter receive art lessons? Weren't artists considered to be low class at this time? That would never be an acceptable profession for these people.
I was so surprised she had Helena mentioned the "gods." Wasn't polytheism considered pagan? Weren't people Christian or a similar branch that worshipped one God?
Things got more interesting as a visitor and his dog came into the cabin suddenly. His gaze stopped and was arrested on Lucilla. He looked at her again and held her eyes and I liked that he addressed her first. When she came out from behind the sheet, attending to the pregnant woman, he immediately looked at her as if he wanted to see her as soon as she came out. That's the kind of tension this book needed. And it took a 17 year old girl and a 19 year old boy to bring it out. Of all the stupidity. At least it was more exciting than boring prim and proper Claire and Daniel. Those two put me to sleep like no one else ever has.
He started to stand up when she came out, when none of the other guys did. He asked about the woman, because he really cared, and no one else did. It was weird how she kept having him thank Lucilla though. For things that didn't require a thank-you at all. His eyes were questioning her on why they were there, she explained what happened and he half bowed and said thank you. Then later he asked what was wrong with Lottie and she said it was a breech birth and he said than you. Like are you really thanking her for answering a question? Jeez. What kind of etiquette is this?
And don't even get me started on how turned off I was at all these young boys and girls in the same cabin as a birth was happening. Where had the Christmas spirit gone? What plot was there to be had, don't know what to do with your characters? Have a side character have a problematic birth, at Christmas, instead of be with their families and celebrate the holiday; it's more exciting that way. Ugh.
Turned her life and future on its head.
I hate that Thomas was staying on with the couple and then going back to his home. I wanted Lucilla to invite him over to spend Christmas with them. What a waste. This couple dominated too much of the story. MOVE ON.
It was sweet that Thomas offered to saddle her horse, and he stood waiting with it at a log for her to use to mount it. I liked the moment that they were leaving and she turned and looked and he was still there watching her.
I was surprised when she had Devil undress and get in bed with his wife, Honoria. Mention of breeches coming off. Couldn't believe that a couple having sex was even hinted at, because this is so tame it's pure white.
This author was so annoyingly consumed with the who, why, what, where, when and how. Literally every stupid detail of any stupid thing was hashed out to excruciatingly minor detail. Catriona asked the kids to tell the story when they got back, and instead of starting to tell the stupid story, or, better yet, the author just writing something like "they stood the story as they ate" so we wouldn't have to sit through the torture of hearing them talk about the scene we had just witnessed firsthand for way too long. You do know we know what happened, right? We were there with the kids the whole time.
Sebastian, the oldest, he one who's always in charge, suggested they pass the baton--would that be a reference to track and field at the Olympics??. He'll start, then whoever wants to cut in can do, that way their audience will be amused and they'll all get to eat the warm food. She felt it was important to have Lucilla point out that her and Prudence will talk about the birth and the boys will talk about fixing the shutter, since they don't know what happened. It would work better if they shared the telling instead of just one person. Did that really need to be said?
So we know what they're doing, and who's doing it, and how they're doing it, and why they're doing it that way...in case you really cared about any of that. It's so interesting.
I had recently seen a kid's book called Good King Wenceslas as I volunteered at the book shop, so it was so cool when Sebastian said Thomas came like Good Kind Wenceslas, complete with his hound. It was cute when Lucilla compared their situation to the nativity. A poor couple and their baby, a ramshackle cottage, the three wise men and angels.
To go from the tension and excitement of Lucilla and Thomas to the utter dullness of Claire and Daniel that was akin to watching paint dry was almost torture. Somehow dumb Claire that acts like an untried schoolgirl convinced herself that Daniel might not love her, despite him asking her to marry him. Apparently people ask someone to marry them because they hate them. Like what kind of an idiot are you? You're 27, you've been married before, and you really have to find out how he feels about you? You're really wondering if he loves you? How can someone so old be so stupid?
The author has a terrible way of describing things, so prim and proper, with words I've never heard of and have no idea how to pronounce. "..her unnervingly perspicacious grandmother.." It was most painful when it came to Claire and Daniel, the most boring couple I've had the bad luck to read. "And she sensed--felt--an answering response, the reality of a reciprocal commitment that was already there.." By the time you've read that and understood what was said, you're just like agh, no romance. It's drier than the desert. I'll never understand why people use these scholarly descriptions when writing romance. You're not writing a research paper where you need to wow your teacher with your expanded vocabulary. Yule tryig to make readers feel something, preferably some heat or angst towards the characters, so we believe the attraction. I'm so bored to tears I can't even muster a bit of caring for these two.
The way Claire spoke was so freaking annoying. Like a little hesitant girl. "I..." (...) "I need to know--" She used too much of "..." and "--" in every one of their conversations. SPIT IT OUT. HOW ARE YOU 27 AND EXPERIENCED AND YOU DONT KNOW WHAT THE FREAK TO SAY TO A MAN? How can you be so bad at talking? It defies logic. Everything she said was stop and start and trail away, unfinished. Then there we always some stupid interruption. I HATE interruptions. Biggest freaking annoyance and copout. Don't start something you're not ready to finish; it's intensely aggravating to think characters are going to finally get somewhere and hash something out, only for stupid contrivance to break them apart, knowing they'll just have to go through it all over again.
Claire swept up her skirts, "modesty be damned," and I wondered how the author could have her characters curse. It's a cuss word today, so you can bet it was awful for a female to use such language back then. "Blast" was considered a cuss word and it was only acceptable for men to use it, so why in tarnation are the females in here cussing with modern curses like it ain't no thing?
The big interruption to account for why Claire and Daniel couldn't have their conversation was a group of kids falling into the stream. What I totally couldn't wrap my head around was that when Raven arrived on the scene he had a "question in his eyes" and Daniel stood there lucidly talking, no teeth chattering or anything, as he stood in literally ice-cold water. First, why didn't Raven immediately jump into the stream to help Daniel with the last kid? Second, why would Daniel ever suggest that someone stay in the river longer, because there was "no sense anyone else getting soaked?" That literally makes no sense. Everyone knows exposure is the killer; the longer you're exposed the more danger you have of hypothermia and frostbite. So what in the name of everything that is holy was the author thinking to have Daniel stay in the river longer and risk death to save the third kid instead of swapping places with a fresh body, one who could handle it? What. The. Heck?
Of course it took a group of children almost drowning for Claire to get a clue and realize her own feelings. That didn't mean she got her thoughts out any more clearly tho. For some reason the author thinks the only reaction a woman can have to a man kissing her is firm lips. Both times Claire's lips firmed. Ew. A better way to describe that is needed ASAP. And it got capped off by this little gem: "The kiss . . . this kiss was a plighting of their troth." Whoa, you better cool me down. They just had a plighting of their troth! The heat level is through the roof!
The heat level capped off at a solid 2 if I'm being generous.
I never understand how authors can throw propriety out the window. If it was indecent to show a lady's calf in front of a man or feel a man's hand without wearing a glove, then how in the world would it be okay for Claire to escort Daniel to his room alone? And the other servants knew about it! Are you kidding me? Not only that, but she mentioned making his bed! You would never, ever tell a man that you had made up his bed. What the heck could you be thinking? I read in total amazement as Claire and Daniel went to his room like it was nothing, and she offered to tell him a story there when he asked if she cared for him as much as her husband.
Wonder of all wonders, he watched her "derrière" and hips as she walked upstairs, and then commented on following her lead when they got to his room. Idk if it was just me, but I thought so much less of him that he would expect to have sex with her and would be willing to have sex with her when they weren't married. He shouldn't use her like that, and she shouldn't be willing to.
This doesn't happen to me often, but I was majorly turned off as I read the sex scene. I thought the entire time, since I first read the synopsis, that this would be an author who didn't write out the sex. Everything after that indicated that it wouldn't be happening. All they did was look at each other, he held her hand to help her sit down, and her lips curved in a smile. They kissed twice and it was so tame and devoid of detail they might as well not have. So you can imagine my shock as I realized the author was actually going to go there.
Claire sat on his bed and I'm thinking what kind of floozy are you? No self-respecting woman would do that. It was so out of character and I couldn't get past it. He went on to touch her between her legs, and when the mention of nipple came up I almost lost it. I, who can't stand a book without sex in it, was so turned off I didn't even want to read. And you know why? Because the author didn't set it up. They were not set up even once to sleep together. This was as white as snow. So I was scandalized as Claire handled his erection and when the mention of touching the head came up I was grossed out. To have these two boring people have sex felt as gross as watching two elderly people on TV. Ew.
This was all after discovering that Claire's husband married her for her money, because he was in debt, and of course she didn't really love him. It was only an infatuation. Of. Course. What a freaking copout. I liked it better when she loved her husband and didn't want to remarry. But that would be sacrilege for a woman to have experienced love before the hero. We can't have that. How sickeningly sweet.
It's annoying that Lucilla's time with Thomas isn't yet. She kept saying it, not "yet." Now I'm wondering if Thomas will go out and get some experience, or if he already has some.
The historically inaccurate phrases drove me insane. Idk what authors are thinking to use such modern phrases from a book centuries ago.
Wracking his brains.
In a nutshell.
Thrown them together.
Obvious conclusion had stared him in the face.
Put his luck to the test.
A widow to boot
Freak storm
Making a mental note
"Cuz" for cousin
Nip in the bud.
Cronies
Train of thought.
Getting a grip
Read too much into it.
Shoe on the other foot.
See it in that light
Take the bull by the horn
sell yourself short.
Bottom of our hearts
Walking on eggshells
Nothing ventured, nothing gained
Without a penny to her name. Penniless.
This year I made a pact to go through my to-read list and try to find books that I've wanted to read for years. While doing so I came across this that I've wanted to read since 2014. I read the summary and got so confused I re-read it to see if I could make any more sense of it. I could not follow what was being said, already got lost with all the names that were dumped out. When I can't understand a summary, I know there must be something wrong with the book. If you can't find a way to describe the book without confusing people then the book must be really hard to understand. I've never read the Cynsters series but by seeing "Cynster #21" I could tell it was a long, ongoing series with a slew of characters to keep track of, as the summary indicated, and a big family like other books I've read. I had no idea how this book got on my to-read list in the first place and wasn't sure I even hit to-read. When I read Claire was a widow I was turned off. I hate widows, can't stand when a character has been married before. It's really off-putting.
I opened the book and was met with 3 "Cast of Characters" pages. If you have to put a list of all of the characters with descriptions of them, then that's too many characters. I know books like that, you have to keep flipping back to the front to remind yourself who it is you're reading about. And every description of a character led to at least one other character. It was like going around in ever-looping circles. I'd read a character, who would lead to someone they were related to, then I'd have to go back and look at who they were. I'd read another character and would have to look up the person they were related to. It was like doing a research project.
I found the nicknames to be really modern and just weird. Scandal. Devil. Demon. Vane. Flick. Lucifer. Medy. Mad Manachan.
It was incredibly modern that Claire described Daniel as having an athlete's body. In a time where there weren't any such things as an athlete-it was not a profession-how can you think to use that phrase?
I hate when the character is the help, but I've never read a romance where they both are. It's exceedingly boring. Having the cool kids be at the head table and having all the help discuss what to do to entertain the kids was awful in comparison. Claire asking about the "younger lot," and Melinda saying the older girls are a "close-knit clique." Claire asked what sort of greenery, where to get it, and how much they needed to decorate. Snooze fest. I was like what the heck am I reading? It smacked of the 21st century and was oh so boring.
The author didn't seem to know how improper it is to have a female child say "riding hell-for-leather." Hell is akin to cussing.
The touch of the supernatural was just too much. Lucille had a touch of the Vale, just like her mom, the Lady of the Vale, meaning she gets premonitions. The man she's with or the male head of the family is the Guardian of the Lady. It was weird.
I liked the tradition of putting the Yule log in on Christmas Eve and burning a fire until the New Year. The face of Cailleach, the spirit of winter, was carved into the log.
They made sunburst shortbread, cakes that were shaped like a ring, with a hole in the middle and lines on the top to represent the sun's rays, to call the sun back into their lives. It evolved into round pieces of shortbread with a circle in the middle and rays drawn out from it.
I hate when they have things for convenience, esp involving using kids to throw two adults together. Louisa asks for a gentleman to come with them, because at 14 she's figured out the boughs might be out of reach or too heavy, and the sled will be too heavy with all of the boughs in it. How mature a thought..And to have all of the adults admire her matchmaking skills, talking about a future romance, was annoying. Was it rly proper to discuss another couple's romance like that? It went on to become even more bothersome. Louisa wanted to get mistletoe and Therese immediately caught on as to why, and them all of the girls were taking about playing Cupid to them. Let me tell you that as someone who was a kid more recently than the author was, no child would notice two adults who do nothing more than occasionally glance at each other like each other, much less hatch a plan to put them together. It's so unrealistic to the point of stupid.
The predicaments authors get their characters in all in the name of throwing them together are so ridiculous. Louisa was using the saw to cut down a branch and Claire was holding the branch. The saw stuck and Louisa got Daniel to finish. It was one thing after another. He had to get into the boughs, Claire had to bend the branch, then let go once the saw was out, then turn away from his hatchet which caused her shoulder to be into his back somehow, then hold onto the branch to steady it, then they were both stuck on the branches. Daniel deduced that they had to go out together or they would get stuck. They had to lift the limb and her go out first and then and him follow. Whatever you say.
It was sweet how he told her she might have some interest in him being offered a new position as Alasdair's assistant once Jason went off to Eton. It provided a stipend, enough for a wife and family.
I came to realize that she's one of those authors who go into every little, minor, minute, trivial, unimportant detail. Every single tiny action that a character could possibly make in an instance is described in the most mind-numbing detail that it practically bores tears out of your eyes. I kept screaming MOVE THE FREAK ON. Every. Little. Thing.
Idk if the author realizes how wrong and historically inaccurate it was to have the kids-these are well-bred kids of the nobility-know how to patch up a cabin. How would they have any experience using tools at all much less to help construct a home? They're gently bred; they would never encounter manual labor like a servant. Don't even get me started on 17 year old Lucilla going to assist a childbirth and having been trained in midwifing. Having her siblings and cousins in the house while a birth took place was so inappropriate. And there again, a noble girl helping to deliver a baby. I didn't know what world this was. And also, why would Daniel suggest that Carter receive art lessons? Weren't artists considered to be low class at this time? That would never be an acceptable profession for these people.
I was so surprised she had Helena mentioned the "gods." Wasn't polytheism considered pagan? Weren't people Christian or a similar branch that worshipped one God?
Things got more interesting as a visitor and his dog came into the cabin suddenly. His gaze stopped and was arrested on Lucilla. He looked at her again and held her eyes and I liked that he addressed her first. When she came out from behind the sheet, attending to the pregnant woman, he immediately looked at her as if he wanted to see her as soon as she came out. That's the kind of tension this book needed. And it took a 17 year old girl and a 19 year old boy to bring it out. Of all the stupidity. At least it was more exciting than boring prim and proper Claire and Daniel. Those two put me to sleep like no one else ever has.
He started to stand up when she came out, when none of the other guys did. He asked about the woman, because he really cared, and no one else did. It was weird how she kept having him thank Lucilla though. For things that didn't require a thank-you at all. His eyes were questioning her on why they were there, she explained what happened and he half bowed and said thank you. Then later he asked what was wrong with Lottie and she said it was a breech birth and he said than you. Like are you really thanking her for answering a question? Jeez. What kind of etiquette is this?
And don't even get me started on how turned off I was at all these young boys and girls in the same cabin as a birth was happening. Where had the Christmas spirit gone? What plot was there to be had, don't know what to do with your characters? Have a side character have a problematic birth, at Christmas, instead of be with their families and celebrate the holiday; it's more exciting that way. Ugh.
Turned her life and future on its head.
I hate that Thomas was staying on with the couple and then going back to his home. I wanted Lucilla to invite him over to spend Christmas with them. What a waste. This couple dominated too much of the story. MOVE ON.
It was sweet that Thomas offered to saddle her horse, and he stood waiting with it at a log for her to use to mount it. I liked the moment that they were leaving and she turned and looked and he was still there watching her.
I was surprised when she had Devil undress and get in bed with his wife, Honoria. Mention of breeches coming off. Couldn't believe that a couple having sex was even hinted at, because this is so tame it's pure white.
This author was so annoyingly consumed with the who, why, what, where, when and how. Literally every stupid detail of any stupid thing was hashed out to excruciatingly minor detail. Catriona asked the kids to tell the story when they got back, and instead of starting to tell the stupid story, or, better yet, the author just writing something like "they stood the story as they ate" so we wouldn't have to sit through the torture of hearing them talk about the scene we had just witnessed firsthand for way too long. You do know we know what happened, right? We were there with the kids the whole time.
Sebastian, the oldest, he one who's always in charge, suggested they pass the baton--would that be a reference to track and field at the Olympics??. He'll start, then whoever wants to cut in can do, that way their audience will be amused and they'll all get to eat the warm food. She felt it was important to have Lucilla point out that her and Prudence will talk about the birth and the boys will talk about fixing the shutter, since they don't know what happened. It would work better if they shared the telling instead of just one person. Did that really need to be said?
So we know what they're doing, and who's doing it, and how they're doing it, and why they're doing it that way...in case you really cared about any of that. It's so interesting.
I had recently seen a kid's book called Good King Wenceslas as I volunteered at the book shop, so it was so cool when Sebastian said Thomas came like Good Kind Wenceslas, complete with his hound. It was cute when Lucilla compared their situation to the nativity. A poor couple and their baby, a ramshackle cottage, the three wise men and angels.
To go from the tension and excitement of Lucilla and Thomas to the utter dullness of Claire and Daniel that was akin to watching paint dry was almost torture. Somehow dumb Claire that acts like an untried schoolgirl convinced herself that Daniel might not love her, despite him asking her to marry him. Apparently people ask someone to marry them because they hate them. Like what kind of an idiot are you? You're 27, you've been married before, and you really have to find out how he feels about you? You're really wondering if he loves you? How can someone so old be so stupid?
The author has a terrible way of describing things, so prim and proper, with words I've never heard of and have no idea how to pronounce. "..her unnervingly perspicacious grandmother.." It was most painful when it came to Claire and Daniel, the most boring couple I've had the bad luck to read. "And she sensed--felt--an answering response, the reality of a reciprocal commitment that was already there.." By the time you've read that and understood what was said, you're just like agh, no romance. It's drier than the desert. I'll never understand why people use these scholarly descriptions when writing romance. You're not writing a research paper where you need to wow your teacher with your expanded vocabulary. Yule tryig to make readers feel something, preferably some heat or angst towards the characters, so we believe the attraction. I'm so bored to tears I can't even muster a bit of caring for these two.
The way Claire spoke was so freaking annoying. Like a little hesitant girl. "I..." (...) "I need to know--" She used too much of "..." and "--" in every one of their conversations. SPIT IT OUT. HOW ARE YOU 27 AND EXPERIENCED AND YOU DONT KNOW WHAT THE FREAK TO SAY TO A MAN? How can you be so bad at talking? It defies logic. Everything she said was stop and start and trail away, unfinished. Then there we always some stupid interruption. I HATE interruptions. Biggest freaking annoyance and copout. Don't start something you're not ready to finish; it's intensely aggravating to think characters are going to finally get somewhere and hash something out, only for stupid contrivance to break them apart, knowing they'll just have to go through it all over again.
Claire swept up her skirts, "modesty be damned," and I wondered how the author could have her characters curse. It's a cuss word today, so you can bet it was awful for a female to use such language back then. "Blast" was considered a cuss word and it was only acceptable for men to use it, so why in tarnation are the females in here cussing with modern curses like it ain't no thing?
The big interruption to account for why Claire and Daniel couldn't have their conversation was a group of kids falling into the stream. What I totally couldn't wrap my head around was that when Raven arrived on the scene he had a "question in his eyes" and Daniel stood there lucidly talking, no teeth chattering or anything, as he stood in literally ice-cold water. First, why didn't Raven immediately jump into the stream to help Daniel with the last kid? Second, why would Daniel ever suggest that someone stay in the river longer, because there was "no sense anyone else getting soaked?" That literally makes no sense. Everyone knows exposure is the killer; the longer you're exposed the more danger you have of hypothermia and frostbite. So what in the name of everything that is holy was the author thinking to have Daniel stay in the river longer and risk death to save the third kid instead of swapping places with a fresh body, one who could handle it? What. The. Heck?
Of course it took a group of children almost drowning for Claire to get a clue and realize her own feelings. That didn't mean she got her thoughts out any more clearly tho. For some reason the author thinks the only reaction a woman can have to a man kissing her is firm lips. Both times Claire's lips firmed. Ew. A better way to describe that is needed ASAP. And it got capped off by this little gem: "The kiss . . . this kiss was a plighting of their troth." Whoa, you better cool me down. They just had a plighting of their troth! The heat level is through the roof!
The heat level capped off at a solid 2 if I'm being generous.
I never understand how authors can throw propriety out the window. If it was indecent to show a lady's calf in front of a man or feel a man's hand without wearing a glove, then how in the world would it be okay for Claire to escort Daniel to his room alone? And the other servants knew about it! Are you kidding me? Not only that, but she mentioned making his bed! You would never, ever tell a man that you had made up his bed. What the heck could you be thinking? I read in total amazement as Claire and Daniel went to his room like it was nothing, and she offered to tell him a story there when he asked if she cared for him as much as her husband.
Wonder of all wonders, he watched her "derrière" and hips as she walked upstairs, and then commented on following her lead when they got to his room. Idk if it was just me, but I thought so much less of him that he would expect to have sex with her and would be willing to have sex with her when they weren't married. He shouldn't use her like that, and she shouldn't be willing to.
This doesn't happen to me often, but I was majorly turned off as I read the sex scene. I thought the entire time, since I first read the synopsis, that this would be an author who didn't write out the sex. Everything after that indicated that it wouldn't be happening. All they did was look at each other, he held her hand to help her sit down, and her lips curved in a smile. They kissed twice and it was so tame and devoid of detail they might as well not have. So you can imagine my shock as I realized the author was actually going to go there.
Claire sat on his bed and I'm thinking what kind of floozy are you? No self-respecting woman would do that. It was so out of character and I couldn't get past it. He went on to touch her between her legs, and when the mention of nipple came up I almost lost it. I, who can't stand a book without sex in it, was so turned off I didn't even want to read. And you know why? Because the author didn't set it up. They were not set up even once to sleep together. This was as white as snow. So I was scandalized as Claire handled his erection and when the mention of touching the head came up I was grossed out. To have these two boring people have sex felt as gross as watching two elderly people on TV. Ew.
This was all after discovering that Claire's husband married her for her money, because he was in debt, and of course she didn't really love him. It was only an infatuation. Of. Course. What a freaking copout. I liked it better when she loved her husband and didn't want to remarry. But that would be sacrilege for a woman to have experienced love before the hero. We can't have that. How sickeningly sweet.
It's annoying that Lucilla's time with Thomas isn't yet. She kept saying it, not "yet." Now I'm wondering if Thomas will go out and get some experience, or if he already has some.
The historically inaccurate phrases drove me insane. Idk what authors are thinking to use such modern phrases from a book centuries ago.
Wracking his brains.
In a nutshell.
Thrown them together.
Obvious conclusion had stared him in the face.
Put his luck to the test.
A widow to boot
Freak storm
Making a mental note
"Cuz" for cousin
Nip in the bud.
Cronies
Train of thought.
Getting a grip
Read too much into it.
Shoe on the other foot.
See it in that light
Take the bull by the horn
sell yourself short.
Bottom of our hearts
Walking on eggshells
Nothing ventured, nothing gained
Without a penny to her name. Penniless.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2024
This book had many times of drawn out scenes. I found myself skipping ahead, often. The hostess of the manor was called, "the Lady of the Veil" was made out to be god like. She has a daughter, who is a twin, and she has this way of knowing things like her mother. There are terms that are used, like "Lady touched" or "living in the Veil", I apparently don't get. They talked about "whatever deity you pray to" and had two men of the house named "Demon" and "Lucifer". I had to rewind to make sure I heard correctly. The hero and heroin had a steamy scene in chapter 10 and spent the night together. For the time period this was written in, I found it unbelievable, plus she had just accepted his proposal before ascending the stairs. I thought that in this time period an unmarried woman would never been allowed to show a man to his room, much less go into it and sit on the bed. I don't understand the writing of this author concerning this book...
January 7, 2019
This has been on my Christmas season TBR list for a couple of years. Laurens is my favorite historical romance writer, and I’ve loved her since I stumbled across the first Cynster novel.
I suspect this novel was rich and pleasurable for me because I was already invested in this extended family and their world, but I found it to be just the diversion I needed. Is it her best work? No. But it made me happy. That is enough.
I suspect this novel was rich and pleasurable for me because I was already invested in this extended family and their world, but I found it to be just the diversion I needed. Is it her best work? No. But it made me happy. That is enough.
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