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The Scandalous Series #1
The Book of Scandal
Nathan Grey, the Earl of Lindsey, is infamously known as the Libertine of Lindsey for his scandalous ways with women. But when he hears gossip that his estranged wife, Evelyn, is about to be named in The Book of Scandal , he has no choice but to remove her from London to protect her and himself from charges of treason -- even if it calls for abduction! While Evelyn has no legal recourse against the man who broke her heart years ago but is still considered her lord and master, she is no longer the immature girl Nathan married. Her enforced homecoming quickly turns into a battle of wills that tears down her husband's defenses and lays bare the passion that still burns between them. Before it is too late, Nathan must confront powerful adversaries as he convinces Evelyn that she is not only his wife, but the one woman he will love for all time.
360 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 19, 2008
95 people are currently reading
2029 people want to read
About the author
Julia London
190 books3,139 followersJulia London is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than two dozen romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular historical romance series, the Cabot Sisters, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several contemporary romances, including Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming.
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
March 23, 2016
ahhh this book is missing an epilogue!!!
A couple losing a child is an emotional plot line, and I think Julia London has done the plot line justice. I am relieved that the grief was properly addressed, for Nathan and Evelyn.
The book opens with Nathan's friend paying him a visit, telling him that he must find a way to bring his wife Evelyn home, after 3 years of living part. Evelyn left Nathan because they were both struggling with losing their son. They had not been able to reconcile until that point.
And their reconciliation was a painful and difficult one. Evelyn wasn't the most mature woman and was not very brave either. She was a rather real woman who had wanted to lean on her husband in her hours of need. She did not want to be reasonable or to make sense. Nathan, while giving Evelyn liberty to do pretty much what she needed to cope with her grief, was not as steadfast as Evelyn had needed him to be either. He was a real man, too, who indulged in drinking and male friendship to fend off his grief.
Their way to marital bliss was lengthy and I repeat, painful. Evelyn was rather annoying in the beginning. But while they tried to find middle ground, their relationship became credible and valid in the story. As a reader I followed their journey to redemption and came to believe in the authenticity of their ordeals and pursuits of happiness.
The most difficult thing to deal with in this book, for the readers, has to be infidelity. Nathan had broken his marriage vows, many times during his separation from Evelyn, but somehow it was glossed over in the book and I could not muster the indignation in me which I thought I ought to be feeling. At the same time Evelyn's "affair" with another man was a lot harder to swallow. I thought Julia London touched on a debatable subject through Nathan, when he confronted Evelyn about her association with this man. I will not pass judgement on either Nathan or Evelyn. Love is a tricky thing and we often hurt people who we hold most dear. I only want to say that I agree with Nathan's assessment about Evelyn's feelings because likewise, for me to consider a physical relationship I would have to be somehow, if not a lot, emotionally invested in the other person. And at the same time, I can understand for most men, physical relationships do not carry a lot of emotional significance. And I mean exactly what I said: that I understand. Not more, not less, in the sense that I am not saying it is ok or not ok to feel that way. I understand, but I pass no judgement either way.
I will, refrain from passing judgments in all cases. People are different and they are entitled to their opinions. I can only say that Julia London's interpretation is an intriguing take on the subject and I feel for both characters.
This is a story with an emotional depth that will ask for your patience and understanding. It is no fluffy read but a rather serious anthropological inquiry on losses, grief and relationships. The intimate scenes helped. :D
A couple losing a child is an emotional plot line, and I think Julia London has done the plot line justice. I am relieved that the grief was properly addressed, for Nathan and Evelyn.
The book opens with Nathan's friend paying him a visit, telling him that he must find a way to bring his wife Evelyn home, after 3 years of living part. Evelyn left Nathan because they were both struggling with losing their son. They had not been able to reconcile until that point.
And their reconciliation was a painful and difficult one. Evelyn wasn't the most mature woman and was not very brave either. She was a rather real woman who had wanted to lean on her husband in her hours of need. She did not want to be reasonable or to make sense. Nathan, while giving Evelyn liberty to do pretty much what she needed to cope with her grief, was not as steadfast as Evelyn had needed him to be either. He was a real man, too, who indulged in drinking and male friendship to fend off his grief.
Their way to marital bliss was lengthy and I repeat, painful. Evelyn was rather annoying in the beginning. But while they tried to find middle ground, their relationship became credible and valid in the story. As a reader I followed their journey to redemption and came to believe in the authenticity of their ordeals and pursuits of happiness.
The most difficult thing to deal with in this book, for the readers, has to be infidelity. Nathan had broken his marriage vows, many times during his separation from Evelyn, but somehow it was glossed over in the book and I could not muster the indignation in me which I thought I ought to be feeling. At the same time Evelyn's "affair" with another man was a lot harder to swallow. I thought Julia London touched on a debatable subject through Nathan, when he confronted Evelyn about her association with this man. I will not pass judgement on either Nathan or Evelyn. Love is a tricky thing and we often hurt people who we hold most dear. I only want to say that I agree with Nathan's assessment about Evelyn's feelings because likewise, for me to consider a physical relationship I would have to be somehow, if not a lot, emotionally invested in the other person. And at the same time, I can understand for most men, physical relationships do not carry a lot of emotional significance. And I mean exactly what I said: that I understand. Not more, not less, in the sense that I am not saying it is ok or not ok to feel that way. I understand, but I pass no judgement either way.
I will, refrain from passing judgments in all cases. People are different and they are entitled to their opinions. I can only say that Julia London's interpretation is an intriguing take on the subject and I feel for both characters.
This is a story with an emotional depth that will ask for your patience and understanding. It is no fluffy read but a rather serious anthropological inquiry on losses, grief and relationships. The intimate scenes helped. :D
April 23, 2019
This was the first book for me to ready by Julia London, and I enjoyed her writing style. It is a second chance story. Adultery is involved. This is not my favorite trope, and cheating is my number one HR sin. Considering all this, the story was well done for me to find it tolerable.
The book starts near the end chronologically. Then it jumps back to various memories to complete the picture. I think this is one of the reasons I found it not as emotionally engaging. However, for purposes of my review, I am going to to start at the beginning.
The parents of Nathan Grey, the Earl of Lindsey, and Evelyn arranged their marriage. It was not a love match. These two married quite young. Nathan was only 21, and Evie 18. Nathan never opened himself up or shared his hidden hobbies and talents with his wife. He would spend weeks out partying with his friends after only a day with Evie. She believed she loved him and had no complaints with his behaviour. After years of marriage, she finally became pregnant and had a son. He was sickly from birth; and when their child was only a year and a half, he succumbed to fever.
Both Nate and Evelyn grieved the loss deeply but separately. They reached out to each other in their own ways but neither could support the other's needs. Nate ended up getting his emotional support from their female neighbor, and Evelyn had to deal completely alone. She eventually decided she needed to leave their home and relocate herself to London to no longer be surrounded by all the places that triggered thoughts and memories of her beloved son. Nate pushed her away, thinking he never wanted to see her again. Evelyn secretly hoped that her departure would cause Nate to come for her, but he never did. Instead, he spent his time gambling, drinking, and having sex with multiple women. Only years later, when he heard gossip that his estranged wife, Evelyn, was about to be named in The Book of Scandal, did he remove her from London to protect himself from charges of treason.
The time they spend together at their home is when we gain the insight into their past and experience their individual responses to the tragedy. We are able to gain insight into each of their feelings of pain and betrayal. I felt empathy for them both. I forgave Nathan for his infidelity until he found out Evelyn did not have sex with Dunhill but would have. He no longer knew if he could forgive her and build on their marriage. She thought about having sex with one man. He actually had sex with multiple women, yet she was the one who apologized and begged and pleaded for forgiveness and a second chance at their marriage. He never once apologized for cheating on her emotionally with one woman and physically with many others. If not for Nathan's total selfish and unrepentant attitude, I would have enjoyed the story more.
The book starts near the end chronologically. Then it jumps back to various memories to complete the picture. I think this is one of the reasons I found it not as emotionally engaging. However, for purposes of my review, I am going to to start at the beginning.
The parents of Nathan Grey, the Earl of Lindsey, and Evelyn arranged their marriage. It was not a love match. These two married quite young. Nathan was only 21, and Evie 18. Nathan never opened himself up or shared his hidden hobbies and talents with his wife. He would spend weeks out partying with his friends after only a day with Evie. She believed she loved him and had no complaints with his behaviour. After years of marriage, she finally became pregnant and had a son. He was sickly from birth; and when their child was only a year and a half, he succumbed to fever.
Both Nate and Evelyn grieved the loss deeply but separately. They reached out to each other in their own ways but neither could support the other's needs. Nate ended up getting his emotional support from their female neighbor, and Evelyn had to deal completely alone. She eventually decided she needed to leave their home and relocate herself to London to no longer be surrounded by all the places that triggered thoughts and memories of her beloved son. Nate pushed her away, thinking he never wanted to see her again. Evelyn secretly hoped that her departure would cause Nate to come for her, but he never did. Instead, he spent his time gambling, drinking, and having sex with multiple women. Only years later, when he heard gossip that his estranged wife, Evelyn, was about to be named in The Book of Scandal, did he remove her from London to protect himself from charges of treason.
The time they spend together at their home is when we gain the insight into their past and experience their individual responses to the tragedy. We are able to gain insight into each of their feelings of pain and betrayal. I felt empathy for them both. I forgave Nathan for his infidelity until he found out Evelyn did not have sex with Dunhill but would have. He no longer knew if he could forgive her and build on their marriage. She thought about having sex with one man. He actually had sex with multiple women, yet she was the one who apologized and begged and pleaded for forgiveness and a second chance at their marriage. He never once apologized for cheating on her emotionally with one woman and physically with many others. If not for Nathan's total selfish and unrepentant attitude, I would have enjoyed the story more.
February 25, 2019
I am torturing myself today. I reread this book for some unknown stupid reason. They are picking books for March for Historical and this one was on the list. I dnf'd it the first time, I skimmed it a second time and I really truly detested it. I read it clean through today and I still hate it.I understood a little bit more. I understood that he was mad at her for thinking of sleeping with another man, when he had slept with other women. But of course it was just because he was thinking of her when he did it. I truly hate that excuse for cheating. I hate it. I cried in this book, for the dead son, for the death of their marriage, for the pain both of them had but I really cried for her. What he did was so far worse than what she did. She never slept with him or anything. Yes she was falling in lust with him, and she was going to sleep with him, but I don't blame her. All she has heard for the last three years is about his debauchery. He did sleep with other women he admitted that, but he couldn't forgive her for wanting to sleep with someone. I was just gobsmacked by his hypocrisy and I still am reeling from it. And why would it be a scandal for her when everyone knows he has been a pig for three years with his cronies and turning her home into a brothel basically. He didn't even really love her even when he married her. She didn't love him either but she did eventually love him. He couldn't even say that. I just hated the whole book and I am really pissed at myself for thinking I could handle this. My heart hurts. I need to find a cure. But I am so distressed I don't think I could read anything else today. Why did I do it?
I am putting myself in time out for at least three days I think. Maybe more. Stupid Debbie.
I am putting myself in time out for at least three days I think. Maybe more. Stupid Debbie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
This book has two sides, one was the story involving the royal family with incredible accuracy. I stopped reading every few pages to research the things that was happening and was pleasantly surprised by how much information that were true facts.
The other side of the story was the relationship of our heroes. They were very young when they married and the story begins 10 years after the occasion. Its a second chance romance and for the first time I liked this trope. Their marriage fell apart after the death of their child and it took 3 years for them to see each other again.
I thought the heroine was an incredibly difficult person to live with, seeing things that were not there, thinking that she was the only one grieving and not understanding that people grieve differently from one another and simply closing herself up to everyone.
While the hero was still holding on to his young self without caring about his responsibilities. All the drinking, gambling, hunting, women and being with his friends all the time would be tiresome to any one...
I did not necessarily liked the characters, but the story was interesting and seeing they overcoming their grieve together as it should have happened when the child died, was heartfelt.
Here there's also an exploration of what would be considered adultery? Only thinking about someone else? Kissing someone else? Giving your love to someone else without giving your body? Or giving your body while numb with grief and drinking that everything feels meaningless?
The other side of the story was the relationship of our heroes. They were very young when they married and the story begins 10 years after the occasion. Its a second chance romance and for the first time I liked this trope. Their marriage fell apart after the death of their child and it took 3 years for them to see each other again.
I thought the heroine was an incredibly difficult person to live with, seeing things that were not there, thinking that she was the only one grieving and not understanding that people grieve differently from one another and simply closing herself up to everyone.
While the hero was still holding on to his young self without caring about his responsibilities. All the drinking, gambling, hunting, women and being with his friends all the time would be tiresome to any one...
I did not necessarily liked the characters, but the story was interesting and seeing they overcoming their grieve together as it should have happened when the child died, was heartfelt.
Here there's also an exploration of what would be considered adultery? Only thinking about someone else? Kissing someone else? Giving your love to someone else without giving your body? Or giving your body while numb with grief and drinking that everything feels meaningless?
December 18, 2018
This is one of those books that you find difficult to process and assess.
As much as their past and present problems seem difficult to overcome, they are so real! That is one of the biggest USP of this book. The h/H are estranged, with him living it up in the country - with friends, women and hunting while she's at court in London, as companion to Princess Mary.
*With spoilers*
Past-
He always was a man going through life in a superficial, almost aimless way. One of those men, though married who cannot seem to give up their friends and the carousing. His attitude towards her is good natured and indulgent but not of any depth. He's never there for long and definitely not when she needs him. Slowly her feelings wither away with his neglect and disinterest.
So this couple of an arranged marriage who could have had a great marriage slowly drift apart till his actions become completely unforgivable and she leaves him. Temporarily, he thinks but she never returns.
Present -
A friend of his warns him of a possible scandal that could engulf his wife. So he goes to London to fetch/force her back to the estate, Eastchurch. She hates going back to the place where she's been so unhappy and I could see why. Imagine having friends as permanent guests since years (even when the h lived there), with woman of all sorts always present to entertain the men one way or the other (the woman only after the h had left, thankfully) and the place a veritable dump. Reading that part and imagining the place was difficult for me and I couldn't see it ever turn into a home again. I could only imagine people having had sex in each and every room! (Although the author doesn't imply any such thing but that's just the kind of establishment their home had turned into.)
So now we know how the H betrayed and hurt her but who's betrayal was greater? Him with his 'physical release' infidelities (he didn't cheat till after the separation) or her's for (almost) falling in love with another man and anticipating sex with him? The book blames both. While the h forgives him, he finds it difficult to forgive her. Their memories of their 'sickly' son and his heartbreaking death adds another hurtful nuance to their story. We see that he's a changed man who deeply missed his wife and even yearned for her. So that part is interesting.
Then the mystery-thriller part. No great suspense but adds to the story making it an all-rounder book.
So yes, I could believe in them as a couple. Only the beginning was difficult to accept for me.
As much as their past and present problems seem difficult to overcome, they are so real! That is one of the biggest USP of this book. The h/H are estranged, with him living it up in the country - with friends, women and hunting while she's at court in London, as companion to Princess Mary.
*With spoilers*
Past-
He always was a man going through life in a superficial, almost aimless way. One of those men, though married who cannot seem to give up their friends and the carousing. His attitude towards her is good natured and indulgent but not of any depth. He's never there for long and definitely not when she needs him. Slowly her feelings wither away with his neglect and disinterest.
So this couple of an arranged marriage who could have had a great marriage slowly drift apart till his actions become completely unforgivable and she leaves him. Temporarily, he thinks but she never returns.
Present -
A friend of his warns him of a possible scandal that could engulf his wife. So he goes to London to fetch/force her back to the estate, Eastchurch. She hates going back to the place where she's been so unhappy and I could see why. Imagine having friends as permanent guests since years (even when the h lived there), with woman of all sorts always present to entertain the men one way or the other (the woman only after the h had left, thankfully) and the place a veritable dump. Reading that part and imagining the place was difficult for me and I couldn't see it ever turn into a home again. I could only imagine people having had sex in each and every room! (Although the author doesn't imply any such thing but that's just the kind of establishment their home had turned into.)
So now we know how the H betrayed and hurt her but who's betrayal was greater? Him with his 'physical release' infidelities (he didn't cheat till after the separation) or her's for (almost) falling in love with another man and anticipating sex with him? The book blames both. While the h forgives him, he finds it difficult to forgive her. Their memories of their 'sickly' son and his heartbreaking death adds another hurtful nuance to their story. We see that he's a changed man who deeply missed his wife and even yearned for her. So that part is interesting.
Then the mystery-thriller part. No great suspense but adds to the story making it an all-rounder book.
So yes, I could believe in them as a couple. Only the beginning was difficult to accept for me.
February 4, 2014
The Book of Scandal is the first in the Scandal series by Julia London. The only other book I have read from this author is "Ruthless Charmer" which was some time ago, and I lost track of this author. But after finding a review of this one on goodreads from a fellow friend, I decided to pick this one up at my local library. After reading the synopsis, I was very fascinated with the hero dragging his wife home to protect them from scandal. Definitely drew me in. The story begins with Nathan Grey, being informed of the huge scandal that is spreading like wildfire through London. When he is warned that his wife may be implicated, and if they are on the losing side, they are both in a world of hurt. So he rushes to London, not having seen his wife for three years, to take her home. At first she is very resistant and stubborn, so he practically dumps her in his carriage. Thus begins a wonderful tale of rebuilding past hurt and mistrusts, and learning to simply love again.
The Book of Scandal was a story that I magically fell in love with from the start. This tale is the epitome of everything I adore about romance novels, especially historical ones. I had forgotten the talent of storytelling by Julia London that takes your breath away. Once you start reading this book, you start to see its not a simple romance of a couple that has been separated for three years, it goes way deeper than that. They both have been married for about ten years, but three years previous they lost their son, and drifted apart. You see how much they still love each other, even after all this time, but there is a emotional block that is preventing them from finding their HEA. The plot thickens a bit with various scenes and there is a mystery aspect added to the story that give this story even more depth.
I really enjoyed seeing these two slowly fall in love again, and rekindle their desire for each other. It is very heart wrenching at times, and I will warn you, that a box of tissues might be needed from time to time, however there are some uplifting scenes that make you feel giddy inside. A stunning romance that sucks you into the story and with the detail, the tender romantic scenes, and characters too endearing, you will find yourself enraptured from the first page to the last!!
The Book of Scandal was a story that I magically fell in love with from the start. This tale is the epitome of everything I adore about romance novels, especially historical ones. I had forgotten the talent of storytelling by Julia London that takes your breath away. Once you start reading this book, you start to see its not a simple romance of a couple that has been separated for three years, it goes way deeper than that. They both have been married for about ten years, but three years previous they lost their son, and drifted apart. You see how much they still love each other, even after all this time, but there is a emotional block that is preventing them from finding their HEA. The plot thickens a bit with various scenes and there is a mystery aspect added to the story that give this story even more depth.
I really enjoyed seeing these two slowly fall in love again, and rekindle their desire for each other. It is very heart wrenching at times, and I will warn you, that a box of tissues might be needed from time to time, however there are some uplifting scenes that make you feel giddy inside. A stunning romance that sucks you into the story and with the detail, the tender romantic scenes, and characters too endearing, you will find yourself enraptured from the first page to the last!!
August 20, 2021
This is a sad sad sad story that I cannot possibly define as romance.
Because it’s so sad.
Triggers:
-death of a child
-cheating
The hero and the heroine were quite happily married and had a child. The child was weak and often sick, until he got very sick and died.
The h went through severe depression and completely closed up, ignoring her husband.
He was unable to help her.
They parted bitterly.
He became a womanizer and a dissolute.
She met another man.
The scandal of this potential affair threatens to ruin her and so the hero is forced to bring her back home.
The rest of the book is about them trying to repair their marriage.
Lot of talk, communication, self disclosure.
It was a self help therapy.
But I found it very painful especially all the parts regarding their son.
They both had different and very wrong way to cope with their pain.
She run away and refused to go on.
He drowned his pain in drinking and women.
He turns out to be a weak and beta hero, a man unable to help his wife and too selfish to care for her.
He didn’t love her.
It was always about him.
A nasty kind of man.
And she was left alone, a mother who lost her child and couldn’t accept it. How can she?
Maybe if he had been patient and caring, the strong alpha man who every woman dream of.
They were thrown back together only to avoid a scandal. He wouldn’t have come back for her.
He never cared enough.
Eventually the writer tries to give them a second chance- and a second baby.
But I was sad and disappointed all the same.l
Two stars for the therapy only.
Because it’s so sad.
Triggers:
-death of a child
-cheating
The hero and the heroine were quite happily married and had a child. The child was weak and often sick, until he got very sick and died.
The h went through severe depression and completely closed up, ignoring her husband.
He was unable to help her.
They parted bitterly.
He became a womanizer and a dissolute.
She met another man.
The scandal of this potential affair threatens to ruin her and so the hero is forced to bring her back home.
The rest of the book is about them trying to repair their marriage.
Lot of talk, communication, self disclosure.
It was a self help therapy.
But I found it very painful especially all the parts regarding their son.
They both had different and very wrong way to cope with their pain.
She run away and refused to go on.
He drowned his pain in drinking and women.
He turns out to be a weak and beta hero, a man unable to help his wife and too selfish to care for her.
He didn’t love her.
It was always about him.
A nasty kind of man.
And she was left alone, a mother who lost her child and couldn’t accept it. How can she?
Maybe if he had been patient and caring, the strong alpha man who every woman dream of.
They were thrown back together only to avoid a scandal. He wouldn’t have come back for her.
He never cared enough.
Eventually the writer tries to give them a second chance- and a second baby.
But I was sad and disappointed all the same.l
Two stars for the therapy only.
January 10, 2009
The story begins with Evelyn and Nathan living very separate lives... Nathan living in their country estate and Evelyn in London in high society. Evelyn is currently a companion to one of the royal princesses and contemplating having an affair of her own. When Nathan gets word that Evelyn is up to her eyeballs in one of the most outrageous scandals for some time, he decided enough is enough and comes back to take her to their country home. Naturally, she tries to avoid by going all the way to the king himself. However, nothing stops Nathan and she is returned to their home. They have been separated for three years and are virtually strangers, but with much difficult history between them. Nathan wants his wife back and Evelyn continues to struggle for some time to come to terms with their past and move on. When strange things start happening, Nathan begins to worry about Evelyn's safety. After a few attempts on her life and their meddling parents, the two are thrown together and attempt to start their lives over.
This was a difficult book for me to finish. I really liked the character of Nathan, but I could have thrown Evelyn across the room... several times. For the majority of the book she tries hard to reject her husband and not even try to work things out with him. Not until the end does she grow up and begin to discover that he really is a great guy and she should cut him some slack. Yes, they have had tragedy in their lives, but I think she was overreacting greatly. If I were Nathan, I think I would have dumped her long before he gave up on her. The overall story was okay, but it is a book that you can live without reading.
This was a difficult book for me to finish. I really liked the character of Nathan, but I could have thrown Evelyn across the room... several times. For the majority of the book she tries hard to reject her husband and not even try to work things out with him. Not until the end does she grow up and begin to discover that he really is a great guy and she should cut him some slack. Yes, they have had tragedy in their lives, but I think she was overreacting greatly. If I were Nathan, I think I would have dumped her long before he gave up on her. The overall story was okay, but it is a book that you can live without reading.
April 15, 2019
2.5 to 3 stars. My first Julia London book, and I liked it OK, but didn't love it as much as many others do. I read this for the April 2019 BOTM for HRBC, and I enjoyed the discussions about it with other readers. But for me, the book fell a little flat.
There was an interesting plot, which linked to historical events surrounding the Prince Regent and his cronies. It included dastardly deeds like arson and attempted murder. I usually quite like it when historical events are incorporated or referenced in HRs, and this was a good aspect of the book for me.
The book touched on some sensitive subjects . It was a little too angsty for me, really. Not a theme I would normally choose to read about. Otherwise, I quite liked the 'second chance romance' aspect of the book, though.
But although I did not dislike the book, for me it lacked some magic and didn't fully draw me in. Perhaps it was the writing style and the characterisations. Somehow I never really connected with either of the MCs, and I guess this is why I didn't really love the book. I suspect it's me, not the book, because many other readers clearly love this book. Perhaps Ms London is just not for me.
There was an interesting plot, which linked to historical events surrounding the Prince Regent and his cronies. It included dastardly deeds like arson and attempted murder. I usually quite like it when historical events are incorporated or referenced in HRs, and this was a good aspect of the book for me.
The book touched on some sensitive subjects . It was a little too angsty for me, really. Not a theme I would normally choose to read about. Otherwise, I quite liked the 'second chance romance' aspect of the book, though.
But although I did not dislike the book, for me it lacked some magic and didn't fully draw me in. Perhaps it was the writing style and the characterisations. Somehow I never really connected with either of the MCs, and I guess this is why I didn't really love the book. I suspect it's me, not the book, because many other readers clearly love this book. Perhaps Ms London is just not for me.
May 4, 2021
Es un libro interesante porque se aleja un poco de los clichés de la novela histórica y se mezcla un poco con hechos reales.
Separados desde hace tres años por no haber podido elaborar la muerte de su pequeño hijo, Nathan obliga a Evelyn a volver al condado porque puede estar involucrada en un escándalo de la corte que puede terminar en acusaciones de alta traición.
Aquí es donde se mezcla con hechos reales. Resulta que Prinny, el futuro Jorge IV, estaba casado con una princesa alemana, Carolina. El matrimonio fue tan desdichado que ni se compara con lo que fue el de Carlos y Diana Spencer. Y la princesa Carolina tuvo algunos deslices, lo que podía llevar a tener graves consecuencia por la descendencia. Porque claro, el príncipe también era adúltero pero no era lo mismo. Cosa de la época, de muchas épocas.
Este es el marco de la novela ya que Evelyn, al separarse de Nathan, va a Londres y se convierte en dama de compañía de la reina y muy amiga de María, la hermana de Prinny. Cuando está por destaparse el escándalo y todos piensan que Evelyn es testigo de cosas serias, Nathan la aleja de la corte porque todo puede tener consecuencias funestas para ambos.
Este reencuentro forzado los hace reflexionar sobre el pasado, su vida matrimonial, cómo vivieron la muerte de su hijo, los malentendidos, la falta de comunicación, la pasión que aún queda. Todo bajo la amenaza de enemigos que hacen peligran sus vidas.
Me gustó cómo fueron replanteándose el pasado, cómo pasaron las cosas y si tienen solución.
Pero quizá haya partes muy repetitivas, sé que lo que pasó fue grave pero..., a veces sería bueno cambiar los matices para decir lo mismo una y otra vez. Creo.
Y cómo se mide con distinta vara a los hombres y alas mujeres. Era, es así un poco todavía.
Y la parte de la conspiración me hubiera gustado que se desarrollara más.
Pero la leí de un tirón (cosa que me pasa poco últimamente) y tiene buenas escenas sensuales.
Tres y media estrellitas pero van cuatro.
Nota: pensar que por el desdichado matrimonio de Jorge IV con Carolina y la muerte de su única hija, la malograda princesa Carlota, terminó ascendiendo al trono Guillermo IV (hermano de Jorge) y luego su sobrina, Victoria.
Separados desde hace tres años por no haber podido elaborar la muerte de su pequeño hijo, Nathan obliga a Evelyn a volver al condado porque puede estar involucrada en un escándalo de la corte que puede terminar en acusaciones de alta traición.
Aquí es donde se mezcla con hechos reales. Resulta que Prinny, el futuro Jorge IV, estaba casado con una princesa alemana, Carolina. El matrimonio fue tan desdichado que ni se compara con lo que fue el de Carlos y Diana Spencer. Y la princesa Carolina tuvo algunos deslices, lo que podía llevar a tener graves consecuencia por la descendencia. Porque claro, el príncipe también era adúltero pero no era lo mismo. Cosa de la época, de muchas épocas.
Este es el marco de la novela ya que Evelyn, al separarse de Nathan, va a Londres y se convierte en dama de compañía de la reina y muy amiga de María, la hermana de Prinny. Cuando está por destaparse el escándalo y todos piensan que Evelyn es testigo de cosas serias, Nathan la aleja de la corte porque todo puede tener consecuencias funestas para ambos.
Este reencuentro forzado los hace reflexionar sobre el pasado, su vida matrimonial, cómo vivieron la muerte de su hijo, los malentendidos, la falta de comunicación, la pasión que aún queda. Todo bajo la amenaza de enemigos que hacen peligran sus vidas.
Me gustó cómo fueron replanteándose el pasado, cómo pasaron las cosas y si tienen solución.
Pero quizá haya partes muy repetitivas, sé que lo que pasó fue grave pero..., a veces sería bueno cambiar los matices para decir lo mismo una y otra vez. Creo.
Y cómo se mide con distinta vara a los hombres y alas mujeres. Era, es así un poco todavía.
Y la parte de la conspiración me hubiera gustado que se desarrollara más.
Pero la leí de un tirón (cosa que me pasa poco últimamente) y tiene buenas escenas sensuales.
Tres y media estrellitas pero van cuatro.
Nota: pensar que por el desdichado matrimonio de Jorge IV con Carolina y la muerte de su única hija, la malograda princesa Carlota, terminó ascendiendo al trono Guillermo IV (hermano de Jorge) y luego su sobrina, Victoria.
April 15, 2009
This was a quick read while sitting in a chair for 10 hours getting my hair done! I loved the hero Nathan. His wife annoyed me because she blamed him for the rift in their marriage, when she was probably 60 percent responsible. Anyway, you know they manage to mend things. It's a rocky road and I like getting to their happy ending. Ms. London does not disappoint!
April 13, 2019
Probably 4+ stars. This was a very good story of a married couple who have lost their way and their reconciliation. The characters were flawed and realistic and sometimes difficult to like, but I did all the same.
Read for the HRBC book selection for April 2019.
Read for the HRBC book selection for April 2019.
July 12, 2024
So I wanted to preface this by saying that it’s definitely not safe for both the MMC and FMC, however in a very rare and exceptional occasion, I do not mind it that much.
Okay. So going into this I was pretty much open-minded because it’s a historical romance. And we all know historical romance tends to be sexist and takes double standard to the extreme both irl and in fiction. Not saying I agree, just stating what it is.
Backstory:
-Husband and Wife got arranged married but they made the best out of it and even learned to somewhat love one another. Wife got pregnant eventually and everybody was happy until they lost the baby.
-They each grieved differently with the wife becoming more and more closed off as her depression goes worse. Husband doesn’t know how to console his wife and added to that his grief of losing the baby he is slowly losing acceptance that anything would be better. He confided to their mutual friend (who’s a girl).
-No cheating ever happened, the friend has a husband and she’s only ever there to lend an ear because she can see that Husband is getting worse day by day with the Wife not speaking to him.
-Wife saw them sitting on a bench (IIRC) then misunderstood the situation since from outside perspective they seem to get cozy. (But it’s only the Husband confiding his feelings to someone because he’s almost at his breaking point with his Wife being cold to him, with their baby dying, he can’t grieve properly because his Wife is his priority.)
-Wife then decided to leave and set off to the main city leaving the Husband behind despite him not wanting his wife to go.
That’s the gist of it. Then what happened in the beginning is the aftermath of the above.
The husband physically cheated and wasn’t celibate (of course 🙄). He drowned his sorrows with booze, gamble and sex. Thoroughly, so much so he had a reputation at the city where his wife was.
The wife was celibate but not because of her lack of trying. She invited OM to do the nasty before the husband interfered (and I was honestly pissed off by this because again double standards by the author) for good reasons.
However, she emotionally cheated with OM, the husband was so bothered by this because he knows that his wife would not invite another man for sex unless the wife feels something deep for that other man. It was also confirmed by the wife when the husband questioned her directly that she was close to falling in love with OM had the husband not intervened at the moment he did.
The side plot where they found out who wanted the wife dead was also very interesting along with the overarching plot where they both grieved for their son (finally) and healing together and communicating healthily.
This book made me emotional, just that the moment when they talked about their son and his eventual death, so maybe that’s why I overlooked the clear depiction of double standard (though it thoroughly pissed me off when I get reminded by it).
Okay. So going into this I was pretty much open-minded because it’s a historical romance. And we all know historical romance tends to be sexist and takes double standard to the extreme both irl and in fiction. Not saying I agree, just stating what it is.
Backstory:
-Husband and Wife got arranged married but they made the best out of it and even learned to somewhat love one another. Wife got pregnant eventually and everybody was happy until they lost the baby.
-They each grieved differently with the wife becoming more and more closed off as her depression goes worse. Husband doesn’t know how to console his wife and added to that his grief of losing the baby he is slowly losing acceptance that anything would be better. He confided to their mutual friend (who’s a girl).
-No cheating ever happened, the friend has a husband and she’s only ever there to lend an ear because she can see that Husband is getting worse day by day with the Wife not speaking to him.
-Wife saw them sitting on a bench (IIRC) then misunderstood the situation since from outside perspective they seem to get cozy. (But it’s only the Husband confiding his feelings to someone because he’s almost at his breaking point with his Wife being cold to him, with their baby dying, he can’t grieve properly because his Wife is his priority.)
-Wife then decided to leave and set off to the main city leaving the Husband behind despite him not wanting his wife to go.
That’s the gist of it. Then what happened in the beginning is the aftermath of the above.
The husband physically cheated and wasn’t celibate (of course 🙄). He drowned his sorrows with booze, gamble and sex. Thoroughly, so much so he had a reputation at the city where his wife was.
The wife was celibate but not because of her lack of trying. She invited OM to do the nasty before the husband interfered (and I was honestly pissed off by this because again double standards by the author) for good reasons.
However, she emotionally cheated with OM, the husband was so bothered by this because he knows that his wife would not invite another man for sex unless the wife feels something deep for that other man. It was also confirmed by the wife when the husband questioned her directly that she was close to falling in love with OM had the husband not intervened at the moment he did.
The side plot where they found out who wanted the wife dead was also very interesting along with the overarching plot where they both grieved for their son (finally) and healing together and communicating healthily.
This book made me emotional, just that the moment when they talked about their son and his eventual death, so maybe that’s why I overlooked the clear depiction of double standard (though it thoroughly pissed me off when I get reminded by it).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2019
4.5/5. First reread.
The themes tackled in this book are heavy duty stuff - loss, infidelity, marital estrangement. It's not an easy read. In fact, it was painful, heart-wrenchingly so, done oh so well by the author. Too well because I found myself tearing up on multiple occasions throughout the book. She did a stupendous job of getting the reader to understand and sympathise with two imperfect protagonists. Yes, they made mistakes, but they truly did love one another and still do. The villain of the book is the black hole that is grief, sucking all light and joy and leaving behind an all-consuming void that the protagonists tried vainly to fill with wine and parties or pretty clothes and gaiety. But spring will always follow a winter, no matter how long and cold the latter was. Nathan and Evelyn's seed of love was planted 10 years earlier when they first pledged their vows and given a bit of sunlight and tenderness, it'll spring forth again to bloom and flourish. All it takes to start the process is the threat of a scandal to surpass all scandals and the subsequent abduction of a reluctant wife by her husband...
Originally 5 stars when I first read it in 2013, marked down this this time as I felt that Nathan did not get a chance to express his regrets and apologies to Evelyn. The author was able to convey that he was remorseful through his inner dialogue but he did not demonstrate it enough for Evelyn, while Evelyn was more effusive with her emotions towards the end. There were thankfully some lighter moments involving their loyal and infinitely patient butler and a couple of cute kids to lift up the mood when it got too intense.
The themes tackled in this book are heavy duty stuff - loss, infidelity, marital estrangement. It's not an easy read. In fact, it was painful, heart-wrenchingly so, done oh so well by the author. Too well because I found myself tearing up on multiple occasions throughout the book. She did a stupendous job of getting the reader to understand and sympathise with two imperfect protagonists. Yes, they made mistakes, but they truly did love one another and still do. The villain of the book is the black hole that is grief, sucking all light and joy and leaving behind an all-consuming void that the protagonists tried vainly to fill with wine and parties or pretty clothes and gaiety. But spring will always follow a winter, no matter how long and cold the latter was. Nathan and Evelyn's seed of love was planted 10 years earlier when they first pledged their vows and given a bit of sunlight and tenderness, it'll spring forth again to bloom and flourish. All it takes to start the process is the threat of a scandal to surpass all scandals and the subsequent abduction of a reluctant wife by her husband...
Originally 5 stars when I first read it in 2013, marked down this this time as I felt that Nathan did not get a chance to express his regrets and apologies to Evelyn. The author was able to convey that he was remorseful through his inner dialogue but he did not demonstrate it enough for Evelyn, while Evelyn was more effusive with her emotions towards the end. There were thankfully some lighter moments involving their loyal and infinitely patient butler and a couple of cute kids to lift up the mood when it got too intense.
April 14, 2019
I really loved this book. The story was full of emotion. The H/h had a lot to work through, a long way to go for their HEA. In the beginning it really didn't seem possible and in fact this is a trope I generally find too heartbreaking to read, but Julia London handled it with such sweet reverence that I found myself falling for these characters, flaws and all, immediately.
Highly recommend! I'll be reading more in this series!
Highly recommend! I'll be reading more in this series!
June 4, 2021
La reseña en el blog https://alacamaconunlibro.blogspot.co...
October 25, 2010
THE BOOK OF SCANAL was a very emotional book. Nathan (H) and Evelyn (h) had married young, infact their marriage was arrainged by both of their parents at an early age. Both of them wanted the marriage and all seemed to be fine until they lost their young son due to illness. Evelyn, lost in her own grief couldn't see that Nathan was greiving just as much. Nathan, trying to cope with his own pain, couldn't find a way to reach or help Evelyn. Soon they drifted apart, the marriage failed and Evelyn left Nathan and moved to London.
The story starts 3 years after the loss of their son when the Princess of Wales threatens to release a book called The Book of Scandal. It is rumored that Evelyn could be named in the book in connection with potential acts of treason. Nathan knows he has to go collect his wayward wife and bring her home so that his family name isn't involved with scandal.
It was very emotional to watch two peolple who not only lost their son but each other find thier way back together and fall in love all over again. There is also some suspence in this story too but it didn't take away from the love story. I will definitely read more of Julia London's books.
The story starts 3 years after the loss of their son when the Princess of Wales threatens to release a book called The Book of Scandal. It is rumored that Evelyn could be named in the book in connection with potential acts of treason. Nathan knows he has to go collect his wayward wife and bring her home so that his family name isn't involved with scandal.
It was very emotional to watch two peolple who not only lost their son but each other find thier way back together and fall in love all over again. There is also some suspence in this story too but it didn't take away from the love story. I will definitely read more of Julia London's books.
September 9, 2008
Slightly different from a typical regency novel - this deals with a marriage that falls apart after the death of the couple's young son, and how the couple eventually rebuilds the relationship.
I enjoyed the idea of telling the story of a couple who knew each other well as opposed to the love at first sight idea - the relationship seems to have more depth.
This premise was also somewhat annoying at times - the couple seemed more interested in fighting or ignoring each other than just talking rationally. Sometimes I felt like the tension was contrived; if the characters acted like real humans would, the story would evaporate.
But I think the issue of grief and how people experience loss was tolerably well handled.
The relationship between the Princess Caroline and the Prince of Wales is used as a plot device - I wish the author had found another way to reconcile the estranged couple.
I enjoyed the idea of telling the story of a couple who knew each other well as opposed to the love at first sight idea - the relationship seems to have more depth.
This premise was also somewhat annoying at times - the couple seemed more interested in fighting or ignoring each other than just talking rationally. Sometimes I felt like the tension was contrived; if the characters acted like real humans would, the story would evaporate.
But I think the issue of grief and how people experience loss was tolerably well handled.
The relationship between the Princess Caroline and the Prince of Wales is used as a plot device - I wish the author had found another way to reconcile the estranged couple.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2018
Loved this one. It was super angsty and made my heart hurt more than once, but the reconciliation between these two was hard-won and satisfying. I just wish there had been a long epilogue or something because I feel that it was deserved and necessary after all that turmoil and pain. I want to see them playing with like five of their children on a Christmas morning.
**Even better during the re-read!
**Even better during the re-read!
avoid_it
August 9, 2017Hero-Heroine both cheats in it. Hero physically and Heroine emotionally. So i guess ...
January 4, 2024
5 Stars
Thoughts:
A highly enjoyable and poignant romance ❤️
Engaging and realistic characters, including the secondary ones.
A strong heroine who didn't give in easily. Impressive.
An alpha hero who groveled excellently.
He was absolutely besotted. 🥰 Le sigh.
Splendidly steamy 🔥
Some sad, heartbreaking parts 😢 But not a depressing book.
Fairly fast-paced
Angst-lite, but still a page-turner.
The dynamic between the H and his butler was funny.
The H's friends were amusing, too. I'm curious about their stories.
I didn't feel the need to skim-read any parts.
Suspense factor didn't distract from the romance.
Convincing HEA
A truly well-rounded romance.
Only gripe: no epilogue
Historical side story about the royals was a bit fascinating.
I will definitely check out the other books in the series.
About the cheating theme: They were both faithful when they were together, but not during the separation. During the separation, she engaged in emotional cheating; for him, it was strictly physical. No OW/OM after reuniting. They only had eyes for each other.
Thoughts:
A highly enjoyable and poignant romance ❤️
Engaging and realistic characters, including the secondary ones.
A strong heroine who didn't give in easily. Impressive.
An alpha hero who groveled excellently.
He was absolutely besotted. 🥰 Le sigh.
Splendidly steamy 🔥
Some sad, heartbreaking parts 😢 But not a depressing book.
Fairly fast-paced
Angst-lite, but still a page-turner.
The dynamic between the H and his butler was funny.
The H's friends were amusing, too. I'm curious about their stories.
I didn't feel the need to skim-read any parts.
Suspense factor didn't distract from the romance.
Convincing HEA
A truly well-rounded romance.
Only gripe: no epilogue
Historical side story about the royals was a bit fascinating.
I will definitely check out the other books in the series.
About the cheating theme: They were both faithful when they were together, but not during the separation. During the separation, she engaged in emotional cheating; for him, it was strictly physical. No OW/OM after reuniting. They only had eyes for each other.
November 5, 2014
nathan is to funny and has a great heart
October 12, 2017
Leído en Dic 2010
Ohh me encantó este libro... muy buena historia con buenos personajes!!
Está en mi lista de favoritos de este genero...
Ohh me encantó este libro... muy buena historia con buenos personajes!!
Está en mi lista de favoritos de este genero...
August 14, 2018
I did not think that I would rate The Book of Scandal as highly as I did, after the way it started. The author did a fine job of bringing me around, for the most part. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4
January 18, 2022
Una historia al que no le encontré el gusto. Recurre al siempre incómodo tópico del matrimonio en crisis. No leo romántica para ver a unos cónyuges despellejándose en plan ¿Quién teme a Virginia Woolf? Aquí tenemos a Evelyn, con una intensa vida social en Londres, separada desde hace años de Nathan, su marido, dedicado a sus labores en el campo. Cuando el escándalo amenaza a Evelyn, allá que va él a la capital, para protegerla. La cosa es que él la quiere, pero ella a él no.
Reseña algo más extensa, en mi blog.
Reseña algo más extensa, en mi blog.
November 29, 2022
This book just became increasingly tiresome for me the more I read. The story was ok initially , but it took a very long time to develop fully , while still being repetitive in other ways. The male lead was so hypocritical, and their “romance” was not enough to make him like-able . Not feeling too excited about reading more by London right now
June 21, 2009
In Julia London's The Book of Scandal, we meet Lord and Lady Lindsey, trying their best not to be entangled in a royal scandal, while also trying to rebuild their tattered marriage - which crumbled greatly after the death of their fifteen month old son; Robbie. Whom was a sickly child from birth. After the death of their son, Evelyn - Lady Lindsey, traveled to London alone to mourn his death, where she ended up spending three years waiting on Princess Mary. But when a scandal arises prompting a Delicate Investigation of Princess Caroline's actions, Evelyn must return home with her estranged husband Nathan - Lord Lindsey, very much against her will or face possible charges of treason. This means she must confront her past demons and her husband whom she loathes, at first. After spending time at her old home of Eastchurch Abbey, trying to avoid everything that reminds her of her old life and her beloved son, Evelyn finds things aren't as badly off as they may seem, and that old hurts don't feel as fresh and unbearable as she feared they may be.
I very much enjoyed this story. However, I thought it might be more about the scandal of Princess Caroline and her husband, Prince George. Compared to how much time was spent on the story of Evelyn and Nathan, it was hardly mentioned. I do realize though that this book was meant to really be about those two, but I couldn't help but be curious about a scandal between the Prince and Princess that really happened, which is why I was grateful in the author's note that Ms. London suggested a few books on that subject, which I certainly intend to check out. Anyhoo, this was a wonderfully written page turning story, even though I had a feeling I knew who the mysterious man stalking Evelyn was, and was right about, after a few clues which clicked together perfectly. I was rooting for Nathan to win Evelyn back, and for poor Evelyn to finally truly come to terms and face her grief for their son, so that she and Nathan could still have a chance to rekindle and rebuild. That is something I always love about Julia London's books; her characters are always lovable and charming, and her stories are always greatly done.
The Book of Scandal is book one in Julia London's Scandalous Series. Followed by Highland Scandal which is out now, then to be followed by A Courtesan's Scandal due out in November 2009.
I very much enjoyed this story. However, I thought it might be more about the scandal of Princess Caroline and her husband, Prince George. Compared to how much time was spent on the story of Evelyn and Nathan, it was hardly mentioned. I do realize though that this book was meant to really be about those two, but I couldn't help but be curious about a scandal between the Prince and Princess that really happened, which is why I was grateful in the author's note that Ms. London suggested a few books on that subject, which I certainly intend to check out. Anyhoo, this was a wonderfully written page turning story, even though I had a feeling I knew who the mysterious man stalking Evelyn was, and was right about, after a few clues which clicked together perfectly. I was rooting for Nathan to win Evelyn back, and for poor Evelyn to finally truly come to terms and face her grief for their son, so that she and Nathan could still have a chance to rekindle and rebuild. That is something I always love about Julia London's books; her characters are always lovable and charming, and her stories are always greatly done.
The Book of Scandal is book one in Julia London's Scandalous Series. Followed by Highland Scandal which is out now, then to be followed by A Courtesan's Scandal due out in November 2009.
April 28, 2018
I thought this was so well written.
It conveys with very realistic feelings, whether you agree with the way the hero and heroine react it not, they both make mistakes but it's well written and honest.
There is cheating in their separation.
He is numb so cheats with random women who of course don't mean anything.
She feels rejected by her husband, feels he hasn't offered her support but instead has sought comfort from another woman. The other woman is married and has only offered a shoulder to lean on but to the heroine it feels like a betrayal so she doesn't cheat but finds herself developing feelings for another man in her time away in London and considers a physical relationship with him.
I don't find the actions of either particularly surprising. I do not agree with the cheating but of course men of the time this is based often engaged in extramarital affairs and there is an immoral spirit at court in London that the heroine is immersed in, so she does well to not have succommed earlier considering the temptation and opportunities.
There are no intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
The story is about reconciliation even if when they first reunite that may not have been the intention.
I found some of the writing very emotional. They split originally due to not dealing well with the loss of a child, that situation is hard in this day and age with all the understanding, counseling and even offer of medication for things like depression but of course in those days this sort of support network didn't exist and wasn't understood for the mother or the father.
I liked both the Hero and heroine, I could see how hard it was for both.
I did feel the Hero's cheating was sort of excused even though his reputation was widely known, even if it was accepted at that time I would have liked more redemption or discussion how that was not acceptable.
It conveys with very realistic feelings, whether you agree with the way the hero and heroine react it not, they both make mistakes but it's well written and honest.
There is cheating in their separation.
He is numb so cheats with random women who of course don't mean anything.
She feels rejected by her husband, feels he hasn't offered her support but instead has sought comfort from another woman. The other woman is married and has only offered a shoulder to lean on but to the heroine it feels like a betrayal so she doesn't cheat but finds herself developing feelings for another man in her time away in London and considers a physical relationship with him.
I don't find the actions of either particularly surprising. I do not agree with the cheating but of course men of the time this is based often engaged in extramarital affairs and there is an immoral spirit at court in London that the heroine is immersed in, so she does well to not have succommed earlier considering the temptation and opportunities.
There are no intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
The story is about reconciliation even if when they first reunite that may not have been the intention.
I found some of the writing very emotional. They split originally due to not dealing well with the loss of a child, that situation is hard in this day and age with all the understanding, counseling and even offer of medication for things like depression but of course in those days this sort of support network didn't exist and wasn't understood for the mother or the father.
I liked both the Hero and heroine, I could see how hard it was for both.
I did feel the Hero's cheating was sort of excused even though his reputation was widely known, even if it was accepted at that time I would have liked more redemption or discussion how that was not acceptable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2013
I wanted to give this book a higher rating because the book is well-written. There were a couple minor glitches but the story and plot were OK for me. Our hero, Nathan Grey, the Earl of Lindsey, is basically tall, dark and handsome but has a bunch of flaws including that he drinks, hangs around with a bunch of totally immature buddies and may have cheated just a little bit after he and his wife were estranged. Our heroine, Evelyn, is an angry, suspicious, selfish, self-centered, manipulative ... person.
OK, losing a child is tragic and it does break up marriages but this marriage didn't seem worth putting back together. It was only towards the end of the book that Evelyn feels sorry that her son, Robbie, did not get to experience his life and that Nathan felt as bad about it as she did. For at least 3/4 of the book she thought of almost nothing but herself.
Evelyn's and Nathan's friends are all nasty in one way or another. Nathan and Evelyn's parents, who arranged the couples marriage, turn out, when we meet them, to be bossy, stereotypical in-laws.
The only enjoyable characters in the whole unhappy, angst-ridden, meddling, bunch were Henrietta, a little girl who is neglected by her parents, and Frances, the game-keeper's son whose busy father has little time for him. In the beginning of the book, the Evelyn has a kind of foster mother relationship with Henrietta, but when Evelyn starts getting her act together, Henrietta is whisked away and disappears from the book. Poor thing was only being used as a plot device, our only clue that Evelyn could be nice to someone.
OK, losing a child is tragic and it does break up marriages but this marriage didn't seem worth putting back together. It was only towards the end of the book that Evelyn feels sorry that her son, Robbie, did not get to experience his life and that Nathan felt as bad about it as she did. For at least 3/4 of the book she thought of almost nothing but herself.
Evelyn's and Nathan's friends are all nasty in one way or another. Nathan and Evelyn's parents, who arranged the couples marriage, turn out, when we meet them, to be bossy, stereotypical in-laws.
The only enjoyable characters in the whole unhappy, angst-ridden, meddling, bunch were Henrietta, a little girl who is neglected by her parents, and Frances, the game-keeper's son whose busy father has little time for him. In the beginning of the book, the Evelyn has a kind of foster mother relationship with Henrietta, but when Evelyn starts getting her act together, Henrietta is whisked away and disappears from the book. Poor thing was only being used as a plot device, our only clue that Evelyn could be nice to someone.
February 9, 2013
Can you imagine what losing a child could do to a couple? I can't, and I hope that will never happen to me.
When Nathan and Evelyn lose their son, instead of reaching out to each other they fall apart. Nathan loses himself with drink and gambling while Evelyn withdraws within herself. Evelyn leaves Nathan when she spies him with another woman, whom she thinks is his mistress. But three years later Nathan forces Evelyn to return home, for the good of the family - he doesn't want her involved in the Princess of Wales scandal. She isn't happy with the decision, she has bad memories of the estate, and she's afraid on how living with Nathan will be. Sparks fly. Misunderstandings are explained. But soon they realize that something isn't entirely right, mysterious accidents have been happening in the estate. Can it be too late for them?
After the author's last series, I was considering not to read this book. But I'm glad that I picked it up. I loved the book. I drawn into the story right from the beginning. It was fast paced, and it didn't lack in the details of the period. I thought that the emotions that both Nathan and Evelyn had, were believable and heart wrenching. And I also thought that their reconciliation was bound to happen sooner or later - the love was still there, their chemistry was wonderful. The threats added a suspense to the story and I was shocked on who was the culprit. My only complaint was that I found the ending rushed, I wanted more.
4.5/5
When Nathan and Evelyn lose their son, instead of reaching out to each other they fall apart. Nathan loses himself with drink and gambling while Evelyn withdraws within herself. Evelyn leaves Nathan when she spies him with another woman, whom she thinks is his mistress. But three years later Nathan forces Evelyn to return home, for the good of the family - he doesn't want her involved in the Princess of Wales scandal. She isn't happy with the decision, she has bad memories of the estate, and she's afraid on how living with Nathan will be. Sparks fly. Misunderstandings are explained. But soon they realize that something isn't entirely right, mysterious accidents have been happening in the estate. Can it be too late for them?
After the author's last series, I was considering not to read this book. But I'm glad that I picked it up. I loved the book. I drawn into the story right from the beginning. It was fast paced, and it didn't lack in the details of the period. I thought that the emotions that both Nathan and Evelyn had, were believable and heart wrenching. And I also thought that their reconciliation was bound to happen sooner or later - the love was still there, their chemistry was wonderful. The threats added a suspense to the story and I was shocked on who was the culprit. My only complaint was that I found the ending rushed, I wanted more.
4.5/5
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