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Beyond Duet #1
Beyond Innocence
Emma Holly turns up the heat in this sinfully sensuous story of a family plagued by scandal—and a shy young woman who discovers a passion beyond her wildest dreams...
When her beloved father passes away, Florence Fairleigh finds herself alone in the world. All she wants is a man who will treat her kindly and support her financially—and she's come to London to find him.
Edward Burbrooke thinks marriage is the only way to save his brother, Freddie—and their family—from scandalous ruin. As head of the family, Edward has vowed to find Freddie a bride—and fast.
Thrown together by Edward, Florence and Freddie make a perfect pair—until Edward realizes he has feelings for his brother's betrothed. The sight of her nubile young body makes his blood burn with lust. The sound of her voice makes his heart warm with love. And the sweet taste of her kiss makes him wonder if he isn't making a terrible mistake.
When her beloved father passes away, Florence Fairleigh finds herself alone in the world. All she wants is a man who will treat her kindly and support her financially—and she's come to London to find him.
Edward Burbrooke thinks marriage is the only way to save his brother, Freddie—and their family—from scandalous ruin. As head of the family, Edward has vowed to find Freddie a bride—and fast.
Thrown together by Edward, Florence and Freddie make a perfect pair—until Edward realizes he has feelings for his brother's betrothed. The sight of her nubile young body makes his blood burn with lust. The sound of her voice makes his heart warm with love. And the sweet taste of her kiss makes him wonder if he isn't making a terrible mistake.
295 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 2001
38 people are currently reading
913 people want to read
About the author
Emma Holly
93 books1,269 followersI'm a USA Today bestselling author who LOVES the hot stuff, both to read and to write. My favorite obsessions are all things coffee, almost everything on HGTV, and dreaming up new stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
July 9, 2024
Finally a book I own that actually turned out to be good. Yay! Feels good. This was fun and had all the elements that reminded me of old school HR that I miss. This was sweet but also a mess of drama. I grew up on soaps and watching Turkish dramas the last few years so this was delicious. The brooding starchy hero Edward pining and lusting after his brother's country girl sheltered fiance Florence made for some great angst. Edward's younger brother Freddie is a closeted gay man and recently was caught with his pants down with a footman so Edward is trying to scramble to protect his brother's reputation and fight down rumors with the help of his aunt Hypolita by finding his brother a bride and fast. What starts off as deceiving a naive woman who came to London looking for marriage turns into something more when the hero sets eyes on her.
What really helped here is that the hero really truly does have his brother's best interest and happiness in mind even though he goes about it the wrong way. The author does a good job actually showing that conflict of his love and devotion he has for his brother while being drawn to his brother's fiance and trying to fight it. It's not just empty talk. Edward has spent his whole life protecting his brother from their cruel father and pretty much taking on a father figure role for Freddie. So his goal is to find him a suitable bride so he can settle down and have kids. Was it frustrating given how long it goes on for? Yes. Did I want to throttle him for digging his heels in even when Freddie and Florence were given outs to call off the engagement? Absolutely. But what also helped for me was Florence being allowed to react to the lies when the truth finally comes out about Freddie's sexuality and lying to her. The fallout is what elevated this story for me. Actions need reactions especially when it involves deceit like this, no matter how well intentioned. I needed that to happen and was worried it would be quickly brushed under the rug because she builds a relationship not only with the brothers but their aunt as well so the betrayal is three fold here.
There's also the scorned ex-mistress in this and for those wanting to know yes there is a sex scene in the beginning between the hero and his mistress but he's thinking of the heroine while doing it. And yes he breaks up with his mistress after that so there's no cheating here FYI. The sex scenes in this book are steamy and naughty and yes a bit outrageous with the purple prose at times but I enjoyed it for the most part given the sexual tension that builds up throughout the book. I just love when a rakish instaitable hero is brought to his knees over the heroine and the situation feels hopeless. It's fun times. Seeing Florence come into her own and stand up for herself was also nice. Yes she's shy and sheltered but she's no wilting flower which was great. Telling Edward and his family to fuck off and leaving after the fallout was a great example of the character growth this heroine goes through. Him and his family actively have to work at winning back her trust and forgiveness. Good times. I was so proud of Florence for standing her ground.
So overall, I had a fun time and recommend this one just for the angst alone and great chemistry. It's high in drama and lucious in the sexual tension and pining.
What really helped here is that the hero really truly does have his brother's best interest and happiness in mind even though he goes about it the wrong way. The author does a good job actually showing that conflict of his love and devotion he has for his brother while being drawn to his brother's fiance and trying to fight it. It's not just empty talk. Edward has spent his whole life protecting his brother from their cruel father and pretty much taking on a father figure role for Freddie. So his goal is to find him a suitable bride so he can settle down and have kids. Was it frustrating given how long it goes on for? Yes. Did I want to throttle him for digging his heels in even when Freddie and Florence were given outs to call off the engagement? Absolutely. But what also helped for me was Florence being allowed to react to the lies when the truth finally comes out about Freddie's sexuality and lying to her. The fallout is what elevated this story for me. Actions need reactions especially when it involves deceit like this, no matter how well intentioned. I needed that to happen and was worried it would be quickly brushed under the rug because she builds a relationship not only with the brothers but their aunt as well so the betrayal is three fold here.
There's also the scorned ex-mistress in this and for those wanting to know yes there is a sex scene in the beginning between the hero and his mistress but he's thinking of the heroine while doing it. And yes he breaks up with his mistress after that so there's no cheating here FYI. The sex scenes in this book are steamy and naughty and yes a bit outrageous with the purple prose at times but I enjoyed it for the most part given the sexual tension that builds up throughout the book. I just love when a rakish instaitable hero is brought to his knees over the heroine and the situation feels hopeless. It's fun times. Seeing Florence come into her own and stand up for herself was also nice. Yes she's shy and sheltered but she's no wilting flower which was great. Telling Edward and his family to fuck off and leaving after the fallout was a great example of the character growth this heroine goes through. Him and his family actively have to work at winning back her trust and forgiveness. Good times. I was so proud of Florence for standing her ground.
So overall, I had a fun time and recommend this one just for the angst alone and great chemistry. It's high in drama and lucious in the sexual tension and pining.
July 10, 2008
I had very mixed feelings about this story. There were things that I liked about it, but there were other things that really frustrated me and came perilously close to giving it wall-banger status, something that is highly unusual for me. It was a primarily character-driven story with nearly all the conflict being of an internal nature. I found the plot to be interesting but very predictable. While there were some emotional romantic moments, they were just too few and inconsistent. The love scenes were very hot and steamy, but just lacked a certain emotional depth. I think this was partly due to the back-and-forth, will-they-or-won't-they nature of the story which became rather tiresome.
I liked Edward and Florence, but didn't really feel that their characterizations were consistent and sometimes they just weren't relatable to me. Florence was a sweet simple vicar's daughter who was extremely naive particularly when it came to things of a sexual nature, but yet was very willing and even eager to participate in sexual intimacies that were out of the ordinary. She almost instantly went from innocent girl to hot sex kitten, something which I thought stretched the bounds of credibility. I felt like I generally understood Edward as the brooding, aloof hero, but what I never could really grasp was his compelling need to protect Freddie. What under other circumstances would have been an endearing bond between two brothers, ultimately felt like obsessive behavior on Edward's part. Also his assertion that Florence was Freddie's last hope of regaining some respectability in society just didn't ring true. It seemed to me that any young woman could have filled the position as Freddie's wife, considering that he never lacked female admirers. In the end I just found Edward too passive for me to be able to fully respect him. I actually liked Freddie more, because I never felt like he was trying to hide behind false pretenses, and admittedly he was a rather charming scene-stealer. This was my first read by Emma Holly and although I can tell she has talent as a writer, it is possible that her writing style simply may not be for me. However, I'll wait until I've read the sequel, Beyond Seduction before making further comment.
Note: Beyond Innocence reads much like a traditional historical romance, but in my opinion the sexual content and explicit language (both of which some may find offensive) rather pushed the boundaries of what most readers would consider traditional, giving it a mild erotic feel. There is also one passionate M/M kiss which, again, may offend some.
I liked Edward and Florence, but didn't really feel that their characterizations were consistent and sometimes they just weren't relatable to me. Florence was a sweet simple vicar's daughter who was extremely naive particularly when it came to things of a sexual nature, but yet was very willing and even eager to participate in sexual intimacies that were out of the ordinary. She almost instantly went from innocent girl to hot sex kitten, something which I thought stretched the bounds of credibility. I felt like I generally understood Edward as the brooding, aloof hero, but what I never could really grasp was his compelling need to protect Freddie. What under other circumstances would have been an endearing bond between two brothers, ultimately felt like obsessive behavior on Edward's part. Also his assertion that Florence was Freddie's last hope of regaining some respectability in society just didn't ring true. It seemed to me that any young woman could have filled the position as Freddie's wife, considering that he never lacked female admirers. In the end I just found Edward too passive for me to be able to fully respect him. I actually liked Freddie more, because I never felt like he was trying to hide behind false pretenses, and admittedly he was a rather charming scene-stealer. This was my first read by Emma Holly and although I can tell she has talent as a writer, it is possible that her writing style simply may not be for me. However, I'll wait until I've read the sequel, Beyond Seduction before making further comment.
Note: Beyond Innocence reads much like a traditional historical romance, but in my opinion the sexual content and explicit language (both of which some may find offensive) rather pushed the boundaries of what most readers would consider traditional, giving it a mild erotic feel. There is also one passionate M/M kiss which, again, may offend some.
September 26, 2020
Spoilers ahead
I'm trying to catch up on reviews for books I read last month smh.......anyways
The H's brother has been in another compromising situation with a male in a time when homosexuality is a definite no no
The h's dad died and she 's broke
Problem meet solution
H and his lawyer and mom put the two together as the brother is fun and charming do a marriage is hoped for
Only thing is the chemistry is off the charts between H/h
Whole lotta fighting his feelings and not even thinking of another solution
Martyrs are not my thing in romance especially when they're too weak and stupid to fight for what they want, he'd planned until the very end to let her go through with the marriage! Thankfully the brother ran off with his lover
Now the h made a bonehead move by staying with the neighbor but still she made him work for forgiveness and I stan a good grovel and a queen with a backbone
All in all it annoyed me but it was hot so eh what're you gonna do
H wanted h from the beginning but continued sleeping with his mistress because boohoo she's not for me (jackass)H
We get a scene if I remember correctly of him enthusiastically with his mistress because he's riled up by the h (vomit)😂
The mistress returns to cause drama
The h ends up engaged to his brother but the h/H have sexy times happening. It's a grey area in terms of cheating because we know the brother is gay so hmmmm idk lol
It was hot which is so hard to find in a historical ugh
****ETA WAIT a minute.....wasn't there a scene when the h of the next book came on to him and he was aroused?!! Omg I'm not rereading this mess but I think so ugh this is why it's important to review books as soon as possible after reading lol anyways chile I did NOT like this man but it was hot soooooooo 😭
I'm trying to catch up on reviews for books I read last month smh.......anyways
The H's brother has been in another compromising situation with a male in a time when homosexuality is a definite no no
The h's dad died and she 's broke
Problem meet solution
H and his lawyer and mom put the two together as the brother is fun and charming do a marriage is hoped for
Only thing is the chemistry is off the charts between H/h
Whole lotta fighting his feelings and not even thinking of another solution
Martyrs are not my thing in romance especially when they're too weak and stupid to fight for what they want, he'd planned until the very end to let her go through with the marriage! Thankfully the brother ran off with his lover
Now the h made a bonehead move by staying with the neighbor but still she made him work for forgiveness and I stan a good grovel and a queen with a backbone
All in all it annoyed me but it was hot so eh what're you gonna do
H wanted h from the beginning but continued sleeping with his mistress because boohoo she's not for me (jackass)H
We get a scene if I remember correctly of him enthusiastically with his mistress because he's riled up by the h (vomit)😂
The mistress returns to cause drama
The h ends up engaged to his brother but the h/H have sexy times happening. It's a grey area in terms of cheating because we know the brother is gay so hmmmm idk lol
It was hot which is so hard to find in a historical ugh
****ETA WAIT a minute.....wasn't there a scene when the h of the next book came on to him and he was aroused?!! Omg I'm not rereading this mess but I think so ugh this is why it's important to review books as soon as possible after reading lol anyways chile I did NOT like this man but it was hot soooooooo 😭
July 11, 2013
Florence is the daughter of a recently deceased country vicar. She's not a high society debutante, but she IS a beauty. Now she needs a husband, and she needs one fast. Otherwise, she's a woman of little means in a world in which women without the protection of a man have few choices.
Edward Burbrooke is in need of a wife, and he needs one NOW. Only he needs a wife for his brother, not himself. Brother Freddie has been caught with his pants down one too many times. Only he never had a woman in the room with him...he had a man! **Gasp!!** But in this day and age, homosexuality was a scandalous road to family ruin.
When Edward and Florence meet, their circumstances seem to be fortuitous. Freddie and Florence become fast friends, but of course there is no attraction between the two. Oh, no...the attraction that sizzles off of these pages is between Florence and Edward. And let me tell you, it was smoking!!!
There's nothing hotter than forbidden love. While most people label this as erotic historical romance, I really didn't think it was all that bad...or good, tee hee. It was a little sexier, but nothing all that taboo. Maybe the dirty talk was a bit more explicit. The next book in the series, however... Beyond Seduction, was MUCH more erotic than this one.
While I liked the book, there wasn't much that stood out to me as all that amazing. The story was good. I liked that there was a homosexual man who was considered to be just a very good person. Often, even in books written now, in this genre, gay people are considered to be heathen and unnatural. But Freddie was a wonderfully lighthearted, empathetic friend to Florence. And yet he still remained manly, and in no way effeminate, which I thought was cool. But I like gay men, sooooo.....
I like some erotic with my historicals. But I also think that the genre allows much less eroticism than any other subgenre. Naughty words in an HR are much more titillating and shocking than in modern contemporaries. This was erotic for a historical. And it was good. Nothing earth shattering, but a nice read.
Edward Burbrooke is in need of a wife, and he needs one NOW. Only he needs a wife for his brother, not himself. Brother Freddie has been caught with his pants down one too many times. Only he never had a woman in the room with him...he had a man! **Gasp!!** But in this day and age, homosexuality was a scandalous road to family ruin.
When Edward and Florence meet, their circumstances seem to be fortuitous. Freddie and Florence become fast friends, but of course there is no attraction between the two. Oh, no...the attraction that sizzles off of these pages is between Florence and Edward. And let me tell you, it was smoking!!!
There's nothing hotter than forbidden love. While most people label this as erotic historical romance, I really didn't think it was all that bad...or good, tee hee. It was a little sexier, but nothing all that taboo. Maybe the dirty talk was a bit more explicit. The next book in the series, however... Beyond Seduction, was MUCH more erotic than this one.
While I liked the book, there wasn't much that stood out to me as all that amazing. The story was good. I liked that there was a homosexual man who was considered to be just a very good person. Often, even in books written now, in this genre, gay people are considered to be heathen and unnatural. But Freddie was a wonderfully lighthearted, empathetic friend to Florence. And yet he still remained manly, and in no way effeminate, which I thought was cool. But I like gay men, sooooo.....
I like some erotic with my historicals. But I also think that the genre allows much less eroticism than any other subgenre. Naughty words in an HR are much more titillating and shocking than in modern contemporaries. This was erotic for a historical. And it was good. Nothing earth shattering, but a nice read.
March 20, 2019
My brother's gay -- will you marry me?
Wonderful Victorian romance, IF you can get over the unintentionally funny premise -- the hero can't deal with his younger brother being gay, so he unearths the most luscious country miss he can find to marry the brother and "straighten him out." And of course the girl is as innocent as a lamb with a body like Venus, so after about two chapters the hero does a total 180 and is fully into seduction!
It's a fun book, but a lot of the drama seems silly instead of gripping. The gay brother and his caring, lower class lover are both more likeable than the hero, actually. Oh, and the hero's Aunt Hypatia is adorable -- she should have had a much bigger part in the novel!
Wonderful Victorian romance, IF you can get over the unintentionally funny premise -- the hero can't deal with his younger brother being gay, so he unearths the most luscious country miss he can find to marry the brother and "straighten him out." And of course the girl is as innocent as a lamb with a body like Venus, so after about two chapters the hero does a total 180 and is fully into seduction!
It's a fun book, but a lot of the drama seems silly instead of gripping. The gay brother and his caring, lower class lover are both more likeable than the hero, actually. Oh, and the hero's Aunt Hypatia is adorable -- she should have had a much bigger part in the novel!
December 8, 2022
It’s be 4 stars if not explicit scenes with OW!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 23, 2022Read but can't remember
January 7, 2023
Steamy goodness with two bondage scenes but the story overall just kind of dragged and was dull.
Warning: there’s a sex scene of the hero with his mistress.
Warning: there’s a sex scene of the hero with his mistress.
March 25, 2012
This is one of those contrived, predictable plots with an ultra-innocent female character ("Oh my! What are you doing?") and a stereotypical duty-bound alpha male. Which is exactly why I've read it several times and likely will keep reading it. There's lots of glaring and resisting of baser impulses, which is completely enjoyable, since the reader knows that the hero adores the heroine and is, where she is concerned, the veriest cream puff. I know it's a bit of an oxymoron, but this book is best described as innocent erotic romance.
At the time this was published (2001), it pushed the boundaries of mainstream romance--there are some very explicit scenes, including one in which the hero ties up the heroine. It felt quite naughty to buy it in the early 2000s. But it's become something of a classic, along with Susan Johnson's early books. Beyond Innocence is like chocolate mousse--decadent and not very filling, but delightful all the same.
At the time this was published (2001), it pushed the boundaries of mainstream romance--there are some very explicit scenes, including one in which the hero ties up the heroine. It felt quite naughty to buy it in the early 2000s. But it's become something of a classic, along with Susan Johnson's early books. Beyond Innocence is like chocolate mousse--decadent and not very filling, but delightful all the same.
May 29, 2015
It really is a shame that Emma Holly stopped writing historicals, because a good erotic historical is hard to come by.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Holly's writing style, which is very detailed. I prefer authors who paint scenes in a descriptive way instead of a more simplistic style.
The storyline was good...I felt the chemistry between Edward and Florence and it certainly had me hurrying through to get to the good stuff. ;-)
The sex was good as well. There were only a couple of words or phrases that made me snicker, lol.
There is one sex scene at the very beginning of the book between the Hero and his mistress, but don't get concerned—the hero isn't a cheater. Once he gives his heart to Florence, he remains faithful to her.
On the whole an excellent read if you love historicals with a bit more steam than average.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Holly's writing style, which is very detailed. I prefer authors who paint scenes in a descriptive way instead of a more simplistic style.
The storyline was good...I felt the chemistry between Edward and Florence and it certainly had me hurrying through to get to the good stuff. ;-)
The sex was good as well. There were only a couple of words or phrases that made me snicker, lol.
There is one sex scene at the very beginning of the book between the Hero and his mistress, but don't get concerned—the hero isn't a cheater. Once he gives his heart to Florence, he remains faithful to her.
On the whole an excellent read if you love historicals with a bit more steam than average.
July 20, 2022
Around a B- for me. To be frank, I don't read Emma Holly for naive, virginal heroines - and that's what we have here in Florence, an almost Disney Princess given that she's adored by cats and babies alike. The plot itself is also a little unsavory. The entire Burbrooke family is in on the plan to get Florence to wed Freddie to save him from scandal. They're duping this country mouse of a heroine and it's kinda gross. Of course when she finds out about the deception we do get several chapters worth of groveling on the part of the hero, Edward.
What made this a memorable read for me though was the portrayal of Freddie and his relationship with his brother Edward. Downright revolutionary for when this book was published in 2001. I'm struggling to think of another mainstream romance from his era that gave readers such a well-drawn, lovely and empathetic gay character. Oh, and he gets his own happy ending in the final chapters. Just, happy sigh.
What made this a memorable read for me though was the portrayal of Freddie and his relationship with his brother Edward. Downright revolutionary for when this book was published in 2001. I'm struggling to think of another mainstream romance from his era that gave readers such a well-drawn, lovely and empathetic gay character. Oh, and he gets his own happy ending in the final chapters. Just, happy sigh.
November 8, 2022
3.5/5
Relectura – Me gusto más en el pasado, pero fue entretenido.
Florence ha quedado sola tras la muerte de su padre, por lo que decide buscar un esposo para tener estabilidad y un “futuro asegurado”.
En esas Edward - Duque de Greystowe, decide buscarle una esposa a su hermano que sirva para ocultar sus ‘aventuras’ homosexuales. Sin embargo no cuenta con la poderosa atracción que va a sentir por la prometida de su hermano.
Como no puede faltar el drama, ellos tendrán sus aventuras eróticas que lograran confundir a Florence. A causa de los malentendidos ella huye, pero él se dará cuenta de sus sentimientos y la buscara.
Final Feliz
Protagonistas algo flojos, ella es algo aburrida el masculino se muestra más emocionante.
Relectura – Me gusto más en el pasado, pero fue entretenido.
Florence ha quedado sola tras la muerte de su padre, por lo que decide buscar un esposo para tener estabilidad y un “futuro asegurado”.
En esas Edward - Duque de Greystowe, decide buscarle una esposa a su hermano que sirva para ocultar sus ‘aventuras’ homosexuales. Sin embargo no cuenta con la poderosa atracción que va a sentir por la prometida de su hermano.
Como no puede faltar el drama, ellos tendrán sus aventuras eróticas que lograran confundir a Florence. A causa de los malentendidos ella huye, pero él se dará cuenta de sus sentimientos y la buscara.
Final Feliz
Protagonistas algo flojos, ella es algo aburrida el masculino se muestra más emocionante.
January 24, 2020
omg this book
i wish i could have written a better review, but i read this book almost a month ago, and i couldn't write my review bc my keyboard was fucked up (and still is).
omg they almost their love for each other for so long, though they each realized it pretty quickly, but they didn't tell each other until the very end, and it almost seemed like it wasn't going to work out...
i wish i could have written a better review, but i read this book almost a month ago, and i couldn't write my review bc my keyboard was fucked up (and still is).
omg they almost their love for each other for so long, though they each realized it pretty quickly, but they didn't tell each other until the very end, and it almost seemed like it wasn't going to work out...
April 21, 2012
Lost interest after the 2nd chapter. Romance loses the 'romance' factor when the Hero shares a hot mindbending sex scene with his mistress in the 2nd chapter.
September 12, 2017
Digamos que me pareció bien, no para tirar cohetes.
Más que erótica, es romántica con un poco más de sexo que las demás.
Creo que sería erótica con un cambio del lenguaje. Las escenas Hot entre los protagonistas tienen ese lenguaje medio vetusto para una erótica: - "poséeme!!!!!" por ej.
No esperen encontrar palabras calientes, ni subidas de tono. Aunque suceda en el siglo XIX, no me parecen creíbles los diálogos en esa situación. Creo que desde la prehistoria el lenguaje íntimo es otro.
Me parecieron más eróticas las escenas de Edward con su amante al principio y las de Freddy, el hermano, con el mayordomo. Más duras y reales.
Más que erótica, es romántica con un poco más de sexo que las demás.
Creo que sería erótica con un cambio del lenguaje. Las escenas Hot entre los protagonistas tienen ese lenguaje medio vetusto para una erótica: - "poséeme!!!!!" por ej.
No esperen encontrar palabras calientes, ni subidas de tono. Aunque suceda en el siglo XIX, no me parecen creíbles los diálogos en esa situación. Creo que desde la prehistoria el lenguaje íntimo es otro.
Me parecieron más eróticas las escenas de Edward con su amante al principio y las de Freddy, el hermano, con el mayordomo. Más duras y reales.
June 4, 2020
Empecé este libro pensando que era una novela erótica, pero lo cierto es que me ha parecido más bien romántica.
Me esperaba algo más similar a El tutor de Robin Schone o El acompañante de Evangeline Collins, aún así he disfrutado bastante de la lectura.
El personaje secundario del hermano del protagonista masculino me ha parecido muy interesante y entrañable.
Me esperaba algo más similar a El tutor de Robin Schone o El acompañante de Evangeline Collins, aún así he disfrutado bastante de la lectura.
El personaje secundario del hermano del protagonista masculino me ha parecido muy interesante y entrañable.
December 2, 2009
I was in the mood for a good historical romance. I'm glad this is the one I picked up!
Florence is a woman trying to make her way in life. She comes to London looking for a husband. When she's introduced to Freddie, it's like a dream come true...until Edward.
There is so much I liked about this story. Normally, I get annoyed by historicals. They tend to be so cookie cutter. That's why I don't often read them. But this one had me engrossed after just a few pages.
I was impressed with most of the characters. I honestly liked Florence and Edward. I wanted them to be together. I LOVED Freddie! And Aunt Hypatia was great. I wish we could have seen more of Ms. Victoire, though. She seemed like she could have added another dimension to the story.
I'll admit that, for Emma Holly, this one is rather tame. But the build-up of the romance between the H/H was beautifully done. I believed it. I even got misty eyed at a few parts. It was a pleasant surprise from Ms. Holly. I was a fan before. But this one proves her diversity as a writer.
I have Beyond Secuction on stand-by for my next historical fix. I'm interested to see how Merry fares in her own story!
Florence is a woman trying to make her way in life. She comes to London looking for a husband. When she's introduced to Freddie, it's like a dream come true...until Edward.
There is so much I liked about this story. Normally, I get annoyed by historicals. They tend to be so cookie cutter. That's why I don't often read them. But this one had me engrossed after just a few pages.
I was impressed with most of the characters. I honestly liked Florence and Edward. I wanted them to be together. I LOVED Freddie! And Aunt Hypatia was great. I wish we could have seen more of Ms. Victoire, though. She seemed like she could have added another dimension to the story.
I'll admit that, for Emma Holly, this one is rather tame. But the build-up of the romance between the H/H was beautifully done. I believed it. I even got misty eyed at a few parts. It was a pleasant surprise from Ms. Holly. I was a fan before. But this one proves her diversity as a writer.
I have Beyond Secuction on stand-by for my next historical fix. I'm interested to see how Merry fares in her own story!
May 13, 2008
If you liked Passion By Lisa Valdez or The River Devil, The Irish Devil By Diane Whiteside then you will enjoy this book. This is the first book I have read of Emma Holly's. I really enjoyed it.
December 16, 2008
Probably 3 1/2. Interesting to see a gay character featured so promanently in a romance novel. It didn't take away from the story at all. Wanted the story to be a bit more though
August 11, 2015
G.G.A.G. Alert - Gigantic Girth and Growing.
Yes little petunias, erotica or erotic or romantica or whatever, was not invented with 50 Shades of Grey. It's been around for eons - can anyone say Sappho. Yes, from John Wilmot to Alexander Pope to D.H. Lawrence, it's had a long and colorful existence. So when 50 Shades came along, I have to say I was a bit surprised that book seemed to be some kind of "new" thing. Romance novels have always had many sensuality levels and many authors who are exceedingly talented in writing "hot." Anya Bast, Rhyannon Byrd, Lora Leigh, Diane Whiteside, Maya Banks, Ally Blue, Lorelei Brown, Opal Carew, Sylvia Day, Lauren Dane, Shayla Black, Shiloh Walker, on and on and on. Among that group is an author by the name of Emma Holly. Ms. Holly has been writing for quite a while; it appears her first book was written in 1998. She also has written mostly contemporary and even has a book with the interesting name of Velvet Glove. In 2001 and 2002, she published two historical novels: Beyond Innocence and Beyond Seduction. I read both of them, and in 2001 I gave Beyond Innocence an A. Now we will explore that book again and see just what time has brought us.
First of all I will say this: there isn't any of what I would call kinky stuff in this, no back-door deliveries, no triple plays, although there is a tie me up scene (boy are they getting tiresome). Then I have to remember this was published 15 years ago before everyone was seeking out bedposts. Just because there isn't any kink-key stuff don't form the idea that there isn't anything hot in this book because there are lots and lots of really scorching delights to behold in Beyond Innocence. Thank goodness there is also a plot line and some mighty fine narrative, because my eyes did start to glaze over after pages and pages of dippity-doo.
Here's the plot. Freddie, the younger brother of our manly-man hero Edward, Earl of Greystowe, has been caught in a scandalous situation - with a footman. Now, being a man of his time Edward thinks it is all part of attending Eton and participating in some of their traditions. His mind does not want to accept that Freddie might be gay. Edward loves his brother and decides the only way to hide the scandal is for Freddie to marry and marry right away. But, Edward needs a truly innocent girl/woman in order to do that - someone who is not only physically innocent but doesn't know too much about any sexual thing. Enter Florence.
Florence is really an innocent, almost too much of one. Any double entendres just go right over her head. I would have to say, she had a circle for a mouth - a perfect o, which in this book could come in handy. Florence is quickly taken in by Edward and his Aunt Hypatia as the perfect wife for Freddie. Thrown into this mix is also Edwards’s scary, conniving mistress, who he uses for a while after he meets Florence. You see, he just cannot fight the overwhelming Timothy Toad activity which flares up alllll the time after he encounters Florence. Eventually, he breaks it off with his mistress because he just doesn't feel good about their relationship - she does not take the break-up very well and viciously spreads more rumors about Freddie. So, hoping to have the rumors die down Freddie, Edward, Hypatia, and Florence vamoose to the countryside.
The dynamics in this story were pretty interesting - we have three people - Edward, Freddie, and Hypatia - who are all using Florence for their own reasons. Florence and Freddie develop a wonderful relationship, a close bond, but because Freddie is what he is the physical side to their relationship is null. Florence doesn't understand this and it makes her pretty insecure with her powers of attractiveness. On the other hand, Edward can't control his over-the-top obsession with Florence, so he comes off being rather abrupt and cold toward her, which she doesn't understand either. Hypatia is constantly guiding her toward Freddie, but all the time Hypatia knows what a lie a marriage between Freddie and Florence would be. So, when Florence's blinders are finally ripped off it is heart-rending and very dramatic scene, it's painful to watch. In this one scene, the author paints Florence's pain so vividly, we the readers can feel it.
Where the story fell apart for me was when Florence fled, seeking help from Edward's discarded mistress and her insane aunt. Edward's inability to separate Florence from the dastardly duo was flimsy at best.
The times have changed moment. I would imagine when I first read this book I found the exposure to the overabundance of sex daring. However, with the passing of time this type of thing has become common place and a little boring - so, as I said before, my eyes did glaze over and my brain shut down and I did skip a few pages. There was also a raised eyebrow or two because of Edward's gigantic Mr. Toad. It was so big that Florence could barely wrap her small hands around it. Yikes! It was mentioned numerous times that Florence had really small hands, which was disturbing. And, that leads me to a question - which would you rather have: a freakishly large Mr. Toad or itsy-bitsy hands? When I look at my hands, and they are relatively small and I make a circle and I don't touch my fingers - ouch. You are going to put something that large where? My oh my. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think that part of the body dilates that much unless there is a baby's head coming out. Regardless of some odd physical visions by this reader, Beyond Innocence is still a good read even if I can't give as high a mark as I originally gave it alllll those years ago.
Yes little petunias, erotica or erotic or romantica or whatever, was not invented with 50 Shades of Grey. It's been around for eons - can anyone say Sappho. Yes, from John Wilmot to Alexander Pope to D.H. Lawrence, it's had a long and colorful existence. So when 50 Shades came along, I have to say I was a bit surprised that book seemed to be some kind of "new" thing. Romance novels have always had many sensuality levels and many authors who are exceedingly talented in writing "hot." Anya Bast, Rhyannon Byrd, Lora Leigh, Diane Whiteside, Maya Banks, Ally Blue, Lorelei Brown, Opal Carew, Sylvia Day, Lauren Dane, Shayla Black, Shiloh Walker, on and on and on. Among that group is an author by the name of Emma Holly. Ms. Holly has been writing for quite a while; it appears her first book was written in 1998. She also has written mostly contemporary and even has a book with the interesting name of Velvet Glove. In 2001 and 2002, she published two historical novels: Beyond Innocence and Beyond Seduction. I read both of them, and in 2001 I gave Beyond Innocence an A. Now we will explore that book again and see just what time has brought us.
First of all I will say this: there isn't any of what I would call kinky stuff in this, no back-door deliveries, no triple plays, although there is a tie me up scene (boy are they getting tiresome). Then I have to remember this was published 15 years ago before everyone was seeking out bedposts. Just because there isn't any kink-key stuff don't form the idea that there isn't anything hot in this book because there are lots and lots of really scorching delights to behold in Beyond Innocence. Thank goodness there is also a plot line and some mighty fine narrative, because my eyes did start to glaze over after pages and pages of dippity-doo.
Here's the plot. Freddie, the younger brother of our manly-man hero Edward, Earl of Greystowe, has been caught in a scandalous situation - with a footman. Now, being a man of his time Edward thinks it is all part of attending Eton and participating in some of their traditions. His mind does not want to accept that Freddie might be gay. Edward loves his brother and decides the only way to hide the scandal is for Freddie to marry and marry right away. But, Edward needs a truly innocent girl/woman in order to do that - someone who is not only physically innocent but doesn't know too much about any sexual thing. Enter Florence.
Florence is really an innocent, almost too much of one. Any double entendres just go right over her head. I would have to say, she had a circle for a mouth - a perfect o, which in this book could come in handy. Florence is quickly taken in by Edward and his Aunt Hypatia as the perfect wife for Freddie. Thrown into this mix is also Edwards’s scary, conniving mistress, who he uses for a while after he meets Florence. You see, he just cannot fight the overwhelming Timothy Toad activity which flares up alllll the time after he encounters Florence. Eventually, he breaks it off with his mistress because he just doesn't feel good about their relationship - she does not take the break-up very well and viciously spreads more rumors about Freddie. So, hoping to have the rumors die down Freddie, Edward, Hypatia, and Florence vamoose to the countryside.
The dynamics in this story were pretty interesting - we have three people - Edward, Freddie, and Hypatia - who are all using Florence for their own reasons. Florence and Freddie develop a wonderful relationship, a close bond, but because Freddie is what he is the physical side to their relationship is null. Florence doesn't understand this and it makes her pretty insecure with her powers of attractiveness. On the other hand, Edward can't control his over-the-top obsession with Florence, so he comes off being rather abrupt and cold toward her, which she doesn't understand either. Hypatia is constantly guiding her toward Freddie, but all the time Hypatia knows what a lie a marriage between Freddie and Florence would be. So, when Florence's blinders are finally ripped off it is heart-rending and very dramatic scene, it's painful to watch. In this one scene, the author paints Florence's pain so vividly, we the readers can feel it.
Where the story fell apart for me was when Florence fled, seeking help from Edward's discarded mistress and her insane aunt. Edward's inability to separate Florence from the dastardly duo was flimsy at best.
The times have changed moment. I would imagine when I first read this book I found the exposure to the overabundance of sex daring. However, with the passing of time this type of thing has become common place and a little boring - so, as I said before, my eyes did glaze over and my brain shut down and I did skip a few pages. There was also a raised eyebrow or two because of Edward's gigantic Mr. Toad. It was so big that Florence could barely wrap her small hands around it. Yikes! It was mentioned numerous times that Florence had really small hands, which was disturbing. And, that leads me to a question - which would you rather have: a freakishly large Mr. Toad or itsy-bitsy hands? When I look at my hands, and they are relatively small and I make a circle and I don't touch my fingers - ouch. You are going to put something that large where? My oh my. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think that part of the body dilates that much unless there is a baby's head coming out. Regardless of some odd physical visions by this reader, Beyond Innocence is still a good read even if I can't give as high a mark as I originally gave it alllll those years ago.
May 7, 2021
DNF’ing this book at about 60%. It’s okay. The writing is fine, but the lead characters are irritating (perfect, virginal yet inexplicably also prime seductress heroine and brooding, martyr-like hero) and the plot is at times so flimsy you feel you could break it just by turning the page.
The bedroom scenes were on point, and I didn’t deduct points for seeing the hero at one point take his mistress to bed (probably the hottest scene in the book tbh). I just lost interest around half way through, and a lack of basic geographical knowledge of the U.K. and also of Euston Station sealed the fate of this book for me.
The bedroom scenes were on point, and I didn’t deduct points for seeing the hero at one point take his mistress to bed (probably the hottest scene in the book tbh). I just lost interest around half way through, and a lack of basic geographical knowledge of the U.K. and also of Euston Station sealed the fate of this book for me.
January 8, 2023
Well written but boring. I skimmed Quite a bit. Vicars daughter is rescued from the poor house so that she can marry H’s homosexual brother and make him appear heterosexual to the Ton. Meanwhile the H falls in love with her. She falls too. She finds out she’s been used and leaves. He finally goes after her and they live hea.
June 12, 2022
I remember reading this and loving it years ago.
December 30, 2024
#212 - 2024
Genre: Historical Romance
Genre: Historical Romance
July 21, 2024
3,5 estrellas
February 2, 2017
Let's see...
Nunca había leído nada de esta autora, así que cuando el libro llegó a mis manos pensé que no perdía nada leyendo una novela suya.
Desde el comienzo me frustró un poco que Edward estuviera tan atraído por Florence. Y todo el libro fue lo mismo, él que no se permitía estar con ella (aunque unas pocas veces digamos que tuvo bastante de ella, más de lo que debería de haberse permitido...) porque era la mujer que quería para su hermano gay. Acaso no le podía buscar otra? Ohhh yeah, ese era el problema, no había ninguna otra situación en medio más que las absurdas razones que se daba Edward para no estar con Florence. Osea, no había más problema que ese...
Freddy era gay, tenía que casarse con una chica para que la sociedad no lo convirtiera en un paria, etc, etc., pensé que hallaría un poco más sobre esto, pero ciertamente no estuvo bien aprovechado.
La tía Hypatia fue un cero a la izquierda, más como un personaje de relleno, yo también creí que tendría más peso pero incluso hay unos capítulos es que uno pensaría que va a aparecer y no hace acto de presencia y no había manera que dejara de preguntarme dónde diablos la habían dejado.
Florence no me convenció, se suponía que era tímida y blablah, pero de pronto empezó a tener un comportamiento como muy fuera de su rol de tímida e inocente, no se lo creí ni por un momento.
Si hay algo que debo decir wowowowow es que me reí un par de veces, habían diálogos divertidos, y había ocasiones en que me reía de los personajes, como sea, me divertí y eso cuenta hahaha
Ammmmm iba a decir algo..... mi cerebro ha colapsado y lo olvidé.....
ok. 2 minutos después he recordado que me gustaron algunas de las escenas que tuvieron estos dos, no románticas y ciertamente cuando Edward al fin acepta su amor por Florence me resultó todo soso y poco creíble lolol, el punto... es que... el sexo... bueno -.- no fue del todo malo, que no del todo bueno, y al menos eso me deja con la idea de ver un libro erótico de esta autora, porque siendo sinceros, de pronto creí que se le olvidó que estaba haciendo un libro de romántica, pues parecía ser casi todo seeeeeeeeeeeeeexxx ... los personajes vivían pensando en el sexo wtf?
Bien, está claro que cuando busque un libro de la regencia no optaré por esta autora. Tal vez para alguien más, obvio que conmigo no funcionó.
---
La escena del amo... desaprovechadísimaaaaaa ZzzZzzzZzzz _._
Nunca había leído nada de esta autora, así que cuando el libro llegó a mis manos pensé que no perdía nada leyendo una novela suya.
Desde el comienzo me frustró un poco que Edward estuviera tan atraído por Florence. Y todo el libro fue lo mismo, él que no se permitía estar con ella (aunque unas pocas veces digamos que tuvo bastante de ella, más de lo que debería de haberse permitido...) porque era la mujer que quería para su hermano gay. Acaso no le podía buscar otra? Ohhh yeah, ese era el problema, no había ninguna otra situación en medio más que las absurdas razones que se daba Edward para no estar con Florence. Osea, no había más problema que ese...
Freddy era gay, tenía que casarse con una chica para que la sociedad no lo convirtiera en un paria, etc, etc., pensé que hallaría un poco más sobre esto, pero ciertamente no estuvo bien aprovechado.
La tía Hypatia fue un cero a la izquierda, más como un personaje de relleno, yo también creí que tendría más peso pero incluso hay unos capítulos es que uno pensaría que va a aparecer y no hace acto de presencia y no había manera que dejara de preguntarme dónde diablos la habían dejado.
Florence no me convenció, se suponía que era tímida y blablah, pero de pronto empezó a tener un comportamiento como muy fuera de su rol de tímida e inocente, no se lo creí ni por un momento.
Si hay algo que debo decir wowowowow es que me reí un par de veces, habían diálogos divertidos, y había ocasiones en que me reía de los personajes, como sea, me divertí y eso cuenta hahaha
Ammmmm iba a decir algo..... mi cerebro ha colapsado y lo olvidé.....
ok. 2 minutos después he recordado que me gustaron algunas de las escenas que tuvieron estos dos, no románticas y ciertamente cuando Edward al fin acepta su amor por Florence me resultó todo soso y poco creíble lolol, el punto... es que... el sexo... bueno -.- no fue del todo malo, que no del todo bueno, y al menos eso me deja con la idea de ver un libro erótico de esta autora, porque siendo sinceros, de pronto creí que se le olvidó que estaba haciendo un libro de romántica, pues parecía ser casi todo seeeeeeeeeeeeeexxx ... los personajes vivían pensando en el sexo wtf?
Bien, está claro que cuando busque un libro de la regencia no optaré por esta autora. Tal vez para alguien más, obvio que conmigo no funcionó.
---
La escena del amo... desaprovechadísimaaaaaa ZzzZzzzZzzz _._
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2011
Florence's father dies so she travels to London to find a good husband to have a stable life. Edward's brother Freddie is gay and decides the best thing to do is to marry him off (to Florence without her knowledge by stagging their introduction) to avoid scandal. But! Edward starts falling in love with Florence and now his plan is falling off track...
Err, this is a pretty standard romance novel but I will say it has some very steamy sex scenes... Ms. Holly is rather graphic (the last one starting on page 253 - 273 was a real dozy), which to be honest, I didn't mind at all.
Cheers!
Err, this is a pretty standard romance novel but I will say it has some very steamy sex scenes... Ms. Holly is rather graphic (the last one starting on page 253 - 273 was a real dozy), which to be honest, I didn't mind at all.
Cheers!
May 14, 2008
I really enjoyed this book as well Beyond Seduction. The hero is a bit of an ass but aren't all men?
March 15, 2020
3 Stars
June 4, 2023
3 Estrellitas. Me ha gustado, pero a la vez me ha dejado un sabor agridulce. Es lo primero que leo de Emma Holly y por su parte me ha convencido. La historia no es nada de otro mundo, pero sí ha tenido un detalle que no me ha gustado y es la traducción; me ha parecido muy pobre y hasta he pensado en más de un momento que se inventaba palabras porque no sabía ni qué poner la traductora o traductor.
"Más allá de la inocencia" es una novela que englobaría de muchas entre el montón, aunque tiene sus añitos, la trama no es nada novedosa. Chica pobre desea casarse con un hombre rico para mejorar su situación, pero ésta la llevará a una madriguera de engaños donde ella será la víctima.
Florence Fairleigh es la hija de un párroco rural, bien educada y destinada a ser una perfecta esposa, pero sólo tiene un problema, su padre ha fallecido y prácticamente la ha dejado en la ruina, así que, con lo poco que tiene, decide poner rumbo a Londres para cambiar su suerte y ésta llegará de manos del abogado de su padre.
Dicho abogado tiene una solución, y es emparejar a Florence con Freddie Burbrooke, el hermano menor del duque de Burbrooke, de quien también es abogado. No hay nadie a quien Edward Burbrooke, el duque, quiera más que a su hermano menor, pero los escarceos de éste están provocando que la sociedad londinense comience a chismorrear sobre su homosexualidad, tan castigada en ésa época.
De ésta manera, Edward y su tía Hypatia planearán que Florence, una inocente chica de campo e ignorante de la vida acabe comprometida con Freddie. Por su parte, Freddie está dispuesto a seguir con el plan, pese a que no le gusta engañar a Florence. Realmente a Freddie le gusta Florence, pero sus instintos van más allá de las féminas.
Así, Florence se verá envuelta en ésa telaraña de engaños. Ella, ignorante de la situación, cree que realmente le gusta a Freddie y él a ella; sólo habrá una persona que ponga nerviosa a Florence y la haga estallar como nunca lo ha hecho en su apocada vida, y ése es Edward, el duque de Burbrooke.
Edward es frío e implacable como lo fue su padre, es un hombre que no cree en el amor y vive resignado a lo que la vida tenga destinada para él, pero sobre todo, quiere salvar a su hermano de la ruina y la ignominia que sus escarceos puedan acarrear a su reputación y al ducado. Edward se siente irremediablemente atraído por Florence, y no querría desearla, pues será la mujer de su hermano, pero de un modo u otro, lo suyo será inevitable.
El libro en sí me ha gustado, pero creo que lo habría disfrutado más si lo hubiese leído hace años, y no ahora, cuando tengo tanto leído. Aunque la historia está bien, no me ha parecido nada novedosa, pero tiene su particularidad, y es desear a la mujer prohibida.
El romance me ha resultado correcto, pero no me ha parecido nada del otro mundo, pese a que las escenas que presenta Emma Holly son bastante sensuales y eróticas. Con lo que sí que no me he sentido cómoda ha sido con el engaño en sí, reconozco que Florence me ha dado bastante penita al verla utilizada de esa manera y engañada para casarse con quien no debiera. En cuanto a la reconciliación, me hubiese gustado que Florence hiciese sufrir más a Edward, se lo merecía.
En fin, que el libro ha estado bien, pero tampoco me ha parecido nada del otro mundo. Lo que sí he lamentado es la pobre traducción, de verdad que hay algunas que dan ganas de sangrar los ojos, y la pena es que una editorial no revise los libros que están publicando una vez están traducidos. Pese a ello, creo que volveré a darle una oportunidad a esta escritora.
"Más allá de la inocencia" es una novela que englobaría de muchas entre el montón, aunque tiene sus añitos, la trama no es nada novedosa. Chica pobre desea casarse con un hombre rico para mejorar su situación, pero ésta la llevará a una madriguera de engaños donde ella será la víctima.
Florence Fairleigh es la hija de un párroco rural, bien educada y destinada a ser una perfecta esposa, pero sólo tiene un problema, su padre ha fallecido y prácticamente la ha dejado en la ruina, así que, con lo poco que tiene, decide poner rumbo a Londres para cambiar su suerte y ésta llegará de manos del abogado de su padre.
Dicho abogado tiene una solución, y es emparejar a Florence con Freddie Burbrooke, el hermano menor del duque de Burbrooke, de quien también es abogado. No hay nadie a quien Edward Burbrooke, el duque, quiera más que a su hermano menor, pero los escarceos de éste están provocando que la sociedad londinense comience a chismorrear sobre su homosexualidad, tan castigada en ésa época.
De ésta manera, Edward y su tía Hypatia planearán que Florence, una inocente chica de campo e ignorante de la vida acabe comprometida con Freddie. Por su parte, Freddie está dispuesto a seguir con el plan, pese a que no le gusta engañar a Florence. Realmente a Freddie le gusta Florence, pero sus instintos van más allá de las féminas.
Así, Florence se verá envuelta en ésa telaraña de engaños. Ella, ignorante de la situación, cree que realmente le gusta a Freddie y él a ella; sólo habrá una persona que ponga nerviosa a Florence y la haga estallar como nunca lo ha hecho en su apocada vida, y ése es Edward, el duque de Burbrooke.
Edward es frío e implacable como lo fue su padre, es un hombre que no cree en el amor y vive resignado a lo que la vida tenga destinada para él, pero sobre todo, quiere salvar a su hermano de la ruina y la ignominia que sus escarceos puedan acarrear a su reputación y al ducado. Edward se siente irremediablemente atraído por Florence, y no querría desearla, pues será la mujer de su hermano, pero de un modo u otro, lo suyo será inevitable.
El libro en sí me ha gustado, pero creo que lo habría disfrutado más si lo hubiese leído hace años, y no ahora, cuando tengo tanto leído. Aunque la historia está bien, no me ha parecido nada novedosa, pero tiene su particularidad, y es desear a la mujer prohibida.
El romance me ha resultado correcto, pero no me ha parecido nada del otro mundo, pese a que las escenas que presenta Emma Holly son bastante sensuales y eróticas. Con lo que sí que no me he sentido cómoda ha sido con el engaño en sí, reconozco que Florence me ha dado bastante penita al verla utilizada de esa manera y engañada para casarse con quien no debiera. En cuanto a la reconciliación, me hubiese gustado que Florence hiciese sufrir más a Edward, se lo merecía.
En fin, que el libro ha estado bien, pero tampoco me ha parecido nada del otro mundo. Lo que sí he lamentado es la pobre traducción, de verdad que hay algunas que dan ganas de sangrar los ojos, y la pena es que una editorial no revise los libros que están publicando una vez están traducidos. Pese a ello, creo que volveré a darle una oportunidad a esta escritora.
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