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Shadows and Silk #6
Sua per una notte (Ombre e Seta: Libro 6)
Una sola notte ha cambiato le loro vite...
Quando l’emigrata spagnola Eva Galante incontra l’aristocratico francese Lucien Capet, è amore a prima vista. Ma il loro incontro non è casuale, ed Eva non è chi Lucien credeva che fosse. Dopo una storia d’amore travolgente e una fuga a Gretna Green, Lucien scopre la verità su ciò che potrebbe costargli l’amore per Eva.
Un solo tradimento li ha separati...
Quattro anni dopo, Eva è la modista più ricercata di Londra e Lucien ora è il Marchese di Touraine, in procinto di fidanzarsi con la migliore cliente di Eva… purché non sia ancora sposato con Eva stessa! Affrontare il loro passato significa fare un viaggio attraverso l’Inghilterra fino al confine scozzese. A ogni miglio i ricordi riaffiorano e le passioni si riaccendono, dando vita a un’ultima notte insieme. O almeno così pensano...
Una seconda possibilità può riunirli per sempre?
Ma il passato non è ancora pronto a svelare i suoi segreti. Mentre Lucien ed Eva affrontano un vecchio nemico, affiorano nuove verità... e una comprensione reciproca più profonda che l’amore a prima vista non aveva mai dato a nessuno dei due. Nonostante i tradimenti del passato, si riaccendono sentimenti che non si erano mai spenti del tutto. Un ultimo segreto li separerà o li unirà per sempre?
Quando l’emigrata spagnola Eva Galante incontra l’aristocratico francese Lucien Capet, è amore a prima vista. Ma il loro incontro non è casuale, ed Eva non è chi Lucien credeva che fosse. Dopo una storia d’amore travolgente e una fuga a Gretna Green, Lucien scopre la verità su ciò che potrebbe costargli l’amore per Eva.
Un solo tradimento li ha separati...
Quattro anni dopo, Eva è la modista più ricercata di Londra e Lucien ora è il Marchese di Touraine, in procinto di fidanzarsi con la migliore cliente di Eva… purché non sia ancora sposato con Eva stessa! Affrontare il loro passato significa fare un viaggio attraverso l’Inghilterra fino al confine scozzese. A ogni miglio i ricordi riaffiorano e le passioni si riaccendono, dando vita a un’ultima notte insieme. O almeno così pensano...
Una seconda possibilità può riunirli per sempre?
Ma il passato non è ancora pronto a svelare i suoi segreti. Mentre Lucien ed Eva affrontano un vecchio nemico, affiorano nuove verità... e una comprensione reciproca più profonda che l’amore a prima vista non aveva mai dato a nessuno dei due. Nonostante i tradimenti del passato, si riaccendono sentimenti che non si erano mai spenti del tutto. Un ultimo segreto li separerà o li unirà per sempre?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2025
74 people are currently reading
1809 people want to read
About the author
Sofie Darling
36 books1,430 followersUSA Today bestselling author Sofie Darling’s passion for historical romance began in middle school the moment she cracked open Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. An instant and enduring love affair was born.
Sofie spent much of her twenties raising two boys and reading every romance she could get her hands on. Once she realized she simply must write the books she loved, she finished her English degree and set pencil to paper. (Ticonderoga #2 is her quill of choice.)
When she’s not writing heroes who make her swoon, Sofie enjoys a nice weekend hike, a visit to a crumbling medieval castle whenever she gets the chance, and a slightly codependent relationship with her beagle, Bosco.
You can keep up with her latest and future releases by joining her newsletter here:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Sofie spent much of her twenties raising two boys and reading every romance she could get her hands on. Once she realized she simply must write the books she loved, she finished her English degree and set pencil to paper. (Ticonderoga #2 is her quill of choice.)
When she’s not writing heroes who make her swoon, Sofie enjoys a nice weekend hike, a visit to a crumbling medieval castle whenever she gets the chance, and a slightly codependent relationship with her beagle, Bosco.
You can keep up with her latest and future releases by joining her newsletter here:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 28, 2022
In the face of heartache and suffering, a beautiful story of a love that would not die emerges and touches the heart. Despite having been badly used by an evil manipulator, Eva Galante has risen from the ashes and created her own empire, putting her name on some of the most wonderful fashion designs. However, coming face to face with the man she never thought she would see again, turns her life upside down. Lucien, Marquis de Touraine is equally flabbergasted meeting with Eva once more, the woman that betrayed him and destroyed his hope of love. Circumstances are such that they are forced to collaborate to discover the truth about their marriage, making them realize that the master puppeteer is still pulling the strings. This novel is fraught with heartache and pain, but eventually, truth and love do triumph, bringing the novel to a delightfully romantic conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 10, 2022
Very wonderful and Surprising - spoilers may be below
Touching story about a man an woman separated four years prior due to a nasty vile man's lies. I was afraid going into this book because I hate separations and second chances usually. But imagine my surprise by his wonderful this one was. A secret baby was part of the equation too, which I adored. The hero was a very good man and had tried to live a good life on his family's French vineyard. She became a successful modiste in London and had achieved everything she'd dreamed of. They are brought back into each other's life by happenstance and they have misconceptions on what happened your years ago when they got married. Of course it took the whole book to come to a resolution but it was so enjoyable and a beautiful love story. The premise is that they are heading to Gretna Green to see if they were really married or not. But it's their they start to fall in love again. They are each other's other half. There is some sadness, some anger, some surprises, but there was lots of love. First time reading this author but definitely not the last. Great story.
Touching story about a man an woman separated four years prior due to a nasty vile man's lies. I was afraid going into this book because I hate separations and second chances usually. But imagine my surprise by his wonderful this one was. A secret baby was part of the equation too, which I adored. The hero was a very good man and had tried to live a good life on his family's French vineyard. She became a successful modiste in London and had achieved everything she'd dreamed of. They are brought back into each other's life by happenstance and they have misconceptions on what happened your years ago when they got married. Of course it took the whole book to come to a resolution but it was so enjoyable and a beautiful love story. The premise is that they are heading to Gretna Green to see if they were really married or not. But it's their they start to fall in love again. They are each other's other half. There is some sadness, some anger, some surprises, but there was lots of love. First time reading this author but definitely not the last. Great story.
April 6, 2022
“One Night His Lady” is a pleasingly written second chance novel of star crossed lovers.
Read full review in the 2022 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 7, 2025
This is only my 6th book by Sofie Darling. I have only read book 1 thru 5 in this series. I am so glad I asked about her in my steamy FB group because she is definitely steamy and has such great depth with her characters and her storylines. Plus I love a good book cover and she has such pretty book covers. 😊
This series just keeps getting better and better. I loved Eva and Lucien. They had such great chemistry and great sex. I hate that they had to be apart for so long but probably well worth it in the end because it enabled them to grow up and appreciate life more. Just a great read.
This series just keeps getting better and better. I loved Eva and Lucien. They had such great chemistry and great sex. I hate that they had to be apart for so long but probably well worth it in the end because it enabled them to grow up and appreciate life more. Just a great read.
March 30, 2022
An incredible emotional story of second chances and redemption, when the past, that has never been forgotten or forgiven, comes back to life.
Sofie weaves a story, with her magical pen, of love at first sight, then betrayal... Of what each thought was unforgivable.
Now four years later they are reunited again, both having risen up, he now titled and she a successful modiste, and they must settle what was started long ago.
Wow is all I can say! I adore this author's writing and she always leaves me with a smile and a sigh as I turn the last page!
Sofie weaves a story, with her magical pen, of love at first sight, then betrayal... Of what each thought was unforgivable.
Now four years later they are reunited again, both having risen up, he now titled and she a successful modiste, and they must settle what was started long ago.
Wow is all I can say! I adore this author's writing and she always leaves me with a smile and a sigh as I turn the last page!
March 20, 2022
What a difficult and tragic journey Eva and Lucien traveled all in the name of love. It was heartbreaking to read how one vindictive man manipulated and controlled their lives and the lives of their loved ones. It is a sad story that turns into triumph. There is love at first sight, soulmates, a proposal after only a few days, a trip to Gretna Green, a wonderful wedding night. But come morning the evil tore them apart. He believing the illusion Montfort created that Eva betrayed him in the worse way he abandons her the day after they married. Eva life spiraled down into the life of the dregs of society chasing the dragon and still under the thumb of Montfort. This is a must read. It is impossible to explain the realistic tragic life Eva lived and survived. She became one of the premier modista in London. When after four years of clawing her way back to a respectable life she runs into Lucien. He is expected to propose to a lady. But she advises him how can he propose to another when they are married. Now he insists she is lying and they are not married. The story takes a little turn here and there, truth revealed, actions explained and the reasons behind them. Inspiring.
I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After
Inspirational
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After
Inspirational
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
March 28, 2022
Love, Love, Love this series & I was fully invested in this book after the first few pages. It was well-written with genuinely touching scenes and an engaging couple, which gave me a rewarding, romantic read that left me feeling happy plus I adored Ariel.
After meeting four years ago, Lucien & Eva, instantly fell in love, ran to Gretna Green, and had a wonderful wedding night filled with passion but the next day their world crashed down as he discovers Eva's deceit and how much it could damage his life & Eva is left to fight & claw her way back.
Four years later, Lucien Capet is now Marquis de Touraine and will be announcing his betrothal at his house party., Attending with his future fiancé is Spanish émigré Eva Galante, London’s most sought-after modiste, who is dressing her best client, the marquess' future bride - if he is still not married to Eva. The trip, Lucien & Eva to Scotland to prove the existence of the marriage is consumed with memories, past and present feelings of passion - can they have one last night together? I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
After meeting four years ago, Lucien & Eva, instantly fell in love, ran to Gretna Green, and had a wonderful wedding night filled with passion but the next day their world crashed down as he discovers Eva's deceit and how much it could damage his life & Eva is left to fight & claw her way back.
Four years later, Lucien Capet is now Marquis de Touraine and will be announcing his betrothal at his house party., Attending with his future fiancé is Spanish émigré Eva Galante, London’s most sought-after modiste, who is dressing her best client, the marquess' future bride - if he is still not married to Eva. The trip, Lucien & Eva to Scotland to prove the existence of the marriage is consumed with memories, past and present feelings of passion - can they have one last night together? I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
March 24, 2022
Unfinished business. Four years ago Eva and Lucien were both betrayed. When they meet again in France, Eva is shocked at his identity and angry at his deception. He is angry that she betrayed him. Anger on anger, but the fire between them has never died. When Eva returns to London, Lucien follows for his winery business and answers from four years ago. A demon stills holds power over them, but only if they let him. This time will be different, unless Eva's secrets tear them apart.
Blackmail, attempted assassination, a marriage registry and a powerful love. Constantly moving, it is one block in the road after another that they must overcome.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Blackmail, attempted assassination, a marriage registry and a powerful love. Constantly moving, it is one block in the road after another that they must overcome.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 20, 2022
Eva and Lucien were remarkably outstanding. The writer took a story plot that would play at the readers emotions. My emotions got the best of me while reading this story. I was hoping while reading the story that Eva would confess her secrets to him then and there, but the writer had a lot more interesting secrets to reveal to her readers. I found the romance between Eva and Lucien very passionate and very hot. Let’s just say that they brought the steam to the story. What a great story that this was.
March 13, 2022
When Spanish émigré Eva Galante first meets French aristocrat Lucien Capet, it is love at first sight. However, their romance and marriage is short lived, when Lucien discovers that Eva may not be all that he once believed. Four years later and now a popular modiste, Eva discovers that her husband Lucien, is soon to be engaged to one of her clients. When they meet again, they realise that they must track down their marriage papers if they are to have a future apart. However, as they travel across England, they realise that their feelings have not faded, but can their secrets ever allow them to have a future together.
This is a book full of passion, with two very headstrong characters. Neither would budge from their initial beliefs of the other but as the story progressed, it was fascinating to see that their feelings could finally help them overcome past hurts. Whilst Eva was determined to not relent, Lucien was persistent in his pursuit – thank goodness!
Whilst this is part of a series, having not read any of the previous books, it is definitely a stand alone book. However, I will definitely be looking out for previous and future books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a book full of passion, with two very headstrong characters. Neither would budge from their initial beliefs of the other but as the story progressed, it was fascinating to see that their feelings could finally help them overcome past hurts. Whilst Eva was determined to not relent, Lucien was persistent in his pursuit – thank goodness!
Whilst this is part of a series, having not read any of the previous books, it is definitely a stand alone book. However, I will definitely be looking out for previous and future books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 30, 2022
Sofie Darling is astounding! The plot and characters of the story are magnificent. It is a brilliant second chance love story. Lucien is a French Marquise who is being pressured to marry the daughter of his mother’s best friend. He is still tortured by a lost love four years ago. Eva is a premier London dressmaker trying to forget the mistakes in her past. The story is layered and witty. Lucien and Eva need to sort through complex conversations and feelings to deal with the past, present and then look to face the future. It is very romantic as he woos her and wins her forgiveness and trust once again. It is a gorgeous love story which is enjoyable from start to finish.
March 30, 2022
Wow! One Night His Lady is a spectacular historical romance by Sofie Darling. Ms. Darling has provided readers with a well-written book. The characters only add to the quality of this story. Eva made the mistake of eloping with a man she only knew a few days, and abandoned the day after the vows. Lucien believes Eva was working with his enemy and left the marriage bed and her in it. They meet again 4 years later and the fire is still there, but so many secrets. Lucien and Eva's story is packed with drama, intrigue, sexy bits, humor, action and suspense. I loved this book and look forward to reading more from Sofie Darling soon. One Night His Lady is book 6 of the Shadows and Silk Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 31, 2022
This is the first book I have read of Sofie Darling's and it certainly is not my last. This author can weave an intriguing and engaging storyline with memorable characters that will leave an impression on you. Even after a day after finishing the book, I am still thinking about this story.
This is a second chance trope with a secret baby and four years of separation. Spanish Eva and french Lucien were married in Gretna Green after a day of knowing each other. By the next morning, Lucien had abandoned Eva over a misunderstanding when he finds out she isn't who he thought she was. Then after four years, a chance meeting brought them face to face once more and it isn't love at first sight. Finding out they are still technically married, they decide to join forces to rectify the situation and set each other free, but the journey to and from Scotland reveals more about the past than either of them realized. Will they reconcile or stay enemies in the end?
To start, the cover is just beautiful, but it is ever so much more meaningful once you have read it. From the start, Ms. Darling's writing prose draws you into the time period and dives you into the lives of Eva and Lucien. I loved how out of nothing and hardship Eva had managed to provide a very well off and good life for herself and family. She was very successful and her love of her job as a modiste was felt. You could also feel the care and pride Lucien had with his vineyard. These characters were so very rich in how they were presented and the journey each went on throughout the book in terms of growth. You really felt the anguish and the deep love these characters have. Plus, the high level of steaminess always helps!
The one little thing I thought negative was Eva's harsh treatment of Lucien all the way through the book and her assumptions of him. I could understand it slightly given her low self esteem, but I felt she was a little overly severe.
I also wanted more background of Eva and her family problems that drove her to Monfort and then what became of Monfort. We do get quite a set up for the characters of the next book of the series, so perhaps more will come.
I simply adored this story and I highly recommend it. It can be read as a stand-alone however, there are lots of characters mentioned throughout that were in books previous. It might help to read those to get a better picture of everyone's connections because it was slightly confusing.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my review.
This is a second chance trope with a secret baby and four years of separation. Spanish Eva and french Lucien were married in Gretna Green after a day of knowing each other. By the next morning, Lucien had abandoned Eva over a misunderstanding when he finds out she isn't who he thought she was. Then after four years, a chance meeting brought them face to face once more and it isn't love at first sight. Finding out they are still technically married, they decide to join forces to rectify the situation and set each other free, but the journey to and from Scotland reveals more about the past than either of them realized. Will they reconcile or stay enemies in the end?
To start, the cover is just beautiful, but it is ever so much more meaningful once you have read it. From the start, Ms. Darling's writing prose draws you into the time period and dives you into the lives of Eva and Lucien. I loved how out of nothing and hardship Eva had managed to provide a very well off and good life for herself and family. She was very successful and her love of her job as a modiste was felt. You could also feel the care and pride Lucien had with his vineyard. These characters were so very rich in how they were presented and the journey each went on throughout the book in terms of growth. You really felt the anguish and the deep love these characters have. Plus, the high level of steaminess always helps!
The one little thing I thought negative was Eva's harsh treatment of Lucien all the way through the book and her assumptions of him. I could understand it slightly given her low self esteem, but I felt she was a little overly severe.
I also wanted more background of Eva and her family problems that drove her to Monfort and then what became of Monfort. We do get quite a set up for the characters of the next book of the series, so perhaps more will come.
I simply adored this story and I highly recommend it. It can be read as a stand-alone however, there are lots of characters mentioned throughout that were in books previous. It might help to read those to get a better picture of everyone's connections because it was slightly confusing.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my review.
March 18, 2022
One night 4 years ago made a difference in their lives.
For Lucien that night was unreal. For Eva it made a difference between life and death.
Just one night changed their lives…
When Spanish émigré Eva Galante meets French aristocrat Lucien Capet, it’s love at first sight. But their meeting isn’t by chance, and Eva isn’t who Lucien believed her to be. After a whirlwind romance and a flight to Gretna Green, Lucien learns the truth about what loving Eva could cost him.
A single betrayal tore them apart…
Four years later, Eva is London’s most sought-after modiste and Lucien is now Marquis de Touraine, about to become engaged to Eva’s best client—as long as he’s not still married to Eva! Confronting their past means a journey across England to the Scottish border. With each mile memories are raised, and passions reignited, sparking one last night together. Or so they think...
Can a second chance reunite them forever?
But the past isn’t ready to give up its secrets just yet. As Lucien and Eva confront an old foe, new truths are revealed… and a deeper understanding of each other that love-at-first-sight never gave them. Despite the betrayals of the past, feelings are rekindled that were never quite extinguished. Will one last secret pull them apart—or bind them together forever?
This book by Sophie Darling is a poignant and great story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
For Lucien that night was unreal. For Eva it made a difference between life and death.
Just one night changed their lives…
When Spanish émigré Eva Galante meets French aristocrat Lucien Capet, it’s love at first sight. But their meeting isn’t by chance, and Eva isn’t who Lucien believed her to be. After a whirlwind romance and a flight to Gretna Green, Lucien learns the truth about what loving Eva could cost him.
A single betrayal tore them apart…
Four years later, Eva is London’s most sought-after modiste and Lucien is now Marquis de Touraine, about to become engaged to Eva’s best client—as long as he’s not still married to Eva! Confronting their past means a journey across England to the Scottish border. With each mile memories are raised, and passions reignited, sparking one last night together. Or so they think...
Can a second chance reunite them forever?
But the past isn’t ready to give up its secrets just yet. As Lucien and Eva confront an old foe, new truths are revealed… and a deeper understanding of each other that love-at-first-sight never gave them. Despite the betrayals of the past, feelings are rekindled that were never quite extinguished. Will one last secret pull them apart—or bind them together forever?
This book by Sophie Darling is a poignant and great story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
March 28, 2022
This was such a well-written story full of intrigue and emotion. It captured my interest from the very start and kept me engrossed tiil the end. Eva and Lucien had a difficult and challenging journey. What started out as a whirlwind romance got tragically sidetracked by a manipulative and controlling man, before ultimately ending in triumph. Deceit caused Eva an Lucien to go their separate ways after only one night of marriage. Lucien abandons her, and Eva suffers greatly being left all alone. Four years later when they meet again each is harboring their own pain, anger, and resentment, not realizing that the evil Montfort had orchestrated that night was the reason they were now apart. This story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions as Lucien and Eva deal with the manipulations of one vindictive man. A passionate story that kept me turning the pages anxious to find out what happens next. This was a first for me by this author, but after reading this I will definitely be going back to read the prior books in the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 29, 2022
3.5
They met, they married and then it all fell apart, in about a week. It’s been four years since Lucien and Eva last saw each other – the morning after their wedding night – when they unexpectedly run into each. They are each marked by their short romance and what has happened in the time since. They are forced to work together to prevent their shared past from affecting their futures.
I absolutely love Eva and Lucien as individual characters and as a couple. Their love story – it’s something special. Their banter was fun and at times made me laugh. I loved how Eva overcame her past and that Lucien accepted all of who she was, even when she couldn’t. I am a huge fan of the healing power of love, characters accepting themselves warts and all and a character finding an inner strength they didn’t know they had. This book had each of these in spades and they were dealt with beautifully.
My only critics would be that at times the story felt like it was dragging – because the main characters weren’t revealing things to each other (not my favourite trope) and because a couple of situations were too simply (in my opinion) dealt with/overcome.
What I love/enjoy about this book, far outweighs the few things I didn’t like/enjoy and didn’t take away from the pleasure I got out of reading Eva and Lucien’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
They met, they married and then it all fell apart, in about a week. It’s been four years since Lucien and Eva last saw each other – the morning after their wedding night – when they unexpectedly run into each. They are each marked by their short romance and what has happened in the time since. They are forced to work together to prevent their shared past from affecting their futures.
I absolutely love Eva and Lucien as individual characters and as a couple. Their love story – it’s something special. Their banter was fun and at times made me laugh. I loved how Eva overcame her past and that Lucien accepted all of who she was, even when she couldn’t. I am a huge fan of the healing power of love, characters accepting themselves warts and all and a character finding an inner strength they didn’t know they had. This book had each of these in spades and they were dealt with beautifully.
My only critics would be that at times the story felt like it was dragging – because the main characters weren’t revealing things to each other (not my favourite trope) and because a couple of situations were too simply (in my opinion) dealt with/overcome.
What I love/enjoy about this book, far outweighs the few things I didn’t like/enjoy and didn’t take away from the pleasure I got out of reading Eva and Lucien’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 15, 2022
I am always excited to read a new Sofie Darling book, so I jumped @ the chance to read an advance copy of One Night His Lady. I was once again introduced to characters I’d met earlier in the Shadows & Silk series. If you haven’t had the chance to read the other books in the series, don’t worry. This holds up as a stand alone, but it will likely leave you wanting to read the others when you finish!
This is a story of love @ first sight that happens @ the most inopportune time. Both characters are caught up in circumstances that make staying together next to impossible. When Eva & Lucien meet again years later, they not only don’t trust, but incorrectly blame each other for their separation. I don’t want to give up a word of the missing puzzle pieces they discover along the way to forgiveness, but suffice to say there’s plenty of mystery, love, & angst along the way. This is definitely a page turner with intriguing secrets revealed, & interesting characters I found easy to root for from the very beginning.
I received an advanced copy via NetGalley & am happy to leave this voluntary review.
This is a story of love @ first sight that happens @ the most inopportune time. Both characters are caught up in circumstances that make staying together next to impossible. When Eva & Lucien meet again years later, they not only don’t trust, but incorrectly blame each other for their separation. I don’t want to give up a word of the missing puzzle pieces they discover along the way to forgiveness, but suffice to say there’s plenty of mystery, love, & angst along the way. This is definitely a page turner with intriguing secrets revealed, & interesting characters I found easy to root for from the very beginning.
I received an advanced copy via NetGalley & am happy to leave this voluntary review.
March 18, 2022
Second chance romance, yes please. Sofia writes stories that are complex and well written. I had to actually go back and look at my reviews for the other books in this series to remember who was who. This story is not a fluff piece but a complicated telling of the characters. I though Eva and Lucien were great characters. One thing that did bother me and it does in most stories with this as a sub-trope is the secret baby. I will never understand it even when the author gives a reason it usually is not a good enough reason for me. Discounting that this is a great book.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 27, 2022
This is the story of Lucien and Eva, who met by chance (or was it) and fell in love at first sight. They immediately get married, and the next day after their marriage, it falls apart. Eva is not who Lucien believes she is, and they separate. Four years later Eva is a famous dress maker and Lucien is now a Marquess wanting to get married. But are Lucien and Eva still married? They have to travel together to find out the truth. On their trip they have a second chance of love. I will tell you there was parts of this book which was so heartbreaking for me when I read them, I was filled with tears. Of course, at the end I was happy. I loved how the author told the story by flashbacks and the present.
I received an ARC of this book by Netgalley and am leaving my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book by Netgalley and am leaving my honest review.
April 7, 2022
A Masterpiece. This is probably my favorite book of the year! A marquis who inherited a vineyard and a young Spanish/Jewish girl, the pawn in an evildoer’s plan, who rises above the ashes to become a legendary Modiste. Four years after their initial relationship, these two soulmates are reunited and begin to unravel all that had torn them apart through the past years. An incredibly beautiful love story, exquisitely expressed through the genius pen of the writer. I experienced every high and every low that this couple shared.
April 23, 2025
A Memorable Story!
"This was the life she and Lucien had promised each other one long ago and faraway night."
I just had to record this quotation from the very end of this remarkable story because it summarised the very essence of this heart felt story for me.
It had hope in abundance, for love and futures and I loved this about it.
Lucien and Eva, I thank you for your beautifully told, memorable story.
"This was the life she and Lucien had promised each other one long ago and faraway night."
I just had to record this quotation from the very end of this remarkable story because it summarised the very essence of this heart felt story for me.
It had hope in abundance, for love and futures and I loved this about it.
Lucien and Eva, I thank you for your beautifully told, memorable story.
March 20, 2022
This is a well written story using flashback and real time. Both hero and heroine used by the same villain, causing mayhem and pain for years. I liked how the author showed their growth and maturity . The theme of forgiving yourself as well as forgiving others is beautifully portrayed here. Matchmaking mamas lose this battle in a hurry! And I adored little Ariel!
March 21, 2022
I’ve never been a fan of books that delve into the past of a story but this was so well done and sporadic that it only added to Eva and. Lucien’s story. Their angst was drawn out enough to allow the story to develop but didn’t drag on to slow the heat building. The revealing of Eva’s secret shame was so touching that you just held your breath through her acceptance of Lucien’s love. It’s a beautiful story that I couldn’t stop reading.
March 15, 2022
Eva and Lucien’s love story is so romantic, so passionate and endearing. I love how they stay true to their character, though circumstances and life try to change them.
Ms. Darling has a fantastic talent for weaving these heartfelt stories that have you truly believing in romance, love and happily ever after for everyone.
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
Ms. Darling has a fantastic talent for weaving these heartfelt stories that have you truly believing in romance, love and happily ever after for everyone.
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
May 7, 2022
One Night His Lady was a super enjoyable read that unfolds across England, Scotland, and France. The diversity of geographic location and national origin was a really striking and enjoyable part of this novel for me—the first I had read by Sofie Darling. The heroine, Eva, is of Spanish and Jewish ancestry, and the hero, Lucian, is a French marquis who runs a vineyard on his post-Revolution estate. I really appreciated the influx of politics and national issues from a variety of European countries; it made the world of this series feel very rich and real.
And the connection between Lucian and Eva was scorching! It had a lot of yearning, which I love, and the story is also told in time slip, so the story of their past is interspersed throughout their present-day interactions. Their story is definitely very complex (and includes the secret baby trope, which I enjoyed!) and I am definitely a sucker for an intense, irresistible attraction in the midst of a very complicated situation, so I was sold from the beginning. I will be honest that, jumping in later in the series, I was at times confused about aspects of Eva's backstory, but not to the point where it was really an issue. I was convinced of the intensity of their attraction for one another and I LOVED how Lucian was a virgin hero (at least when he and Eva first meet, before they have sex, pre-time slip—but I’m counting it). He might actually (shockingly) be the first virgin hero I have ever read. I always knew I would be trash for a virgin hero and this book confirmed my suspicion. Lucian was delectable and I really liked that he had only been with her—it drove home how much he felt their connection was special and it made their eventual sexual reconnection that much hotter.
I also commend Darling for giving us a full sex scene at 37% and another at 52%—and using the “only one bed” trope twice. Amazing. Additionally, I really liked the queer secondary romance where the characters got their own HEA—that was very satisfying.
If you enjoy steamy Regency-era romance and want to try one that goes outside the typical London/England environment, and has a delicious hero and a strong, independent, dress-making heroine, then I recommend One Night His Lady.
Thank you to Oliver-Heber Books for providing me with an ARC!
And the connection between Lucian and Eva was scorching! It had a lot of yearning, which I love, and the story is also told in time slip, so the story of their past is interspersed throughout their present-day interactions. Their story is definitely very complex (and includes the secret baby trope, which I enjoyed!) and I am definitely a sucker for an intense, irresistible attraction in the midst of a very complicated situation, so I was sold from the beginning. I will be honest that, jumping in later in the series, I was at times confused about aspects of Eva's backstory, but not to the point where it was really an issue. I was convinced of the intensity of their attraction for one another and I LOVED how Lucian was a virgin hero (at least when he and Eva first meet, before they have sex, pre-time slip—but I’m counting it). He might actually (shockingly) be the first virgin hero I have ever read. I always knew I would be trash for a virgin hero and this book confirmed my suspicion. Lucian was delectable and I really liked that he had only been with her—it drove home how much he felt their connection was special and it made their eventual sexual reconnection that much hotter.
I also commend Darling for giving us a full sex scene at 37% and another at 52%—and using the “only one bed” trope twice. Amazing. Additionally, I really liked the queer secondary romance where the characters got their own HEA—that was very satisfying.
If you enjoy steamy Regency-era romance and want to try one that goes outside the typical London/England environment, and has a delicious hero and a strong, independent, dress-making heroine, then I recommend One Night His Lady.
Thank you to Oliver-Heber Books for providing me with an ARC!
August 13, 2025
"Sacrebleu!"
(Recensione pubblicata nel blog "Crispi's Books)
Buongiorno, amiche lettrici!
Come state? Siete in vacanza o vi state sciogliendo sotto il sole estivo? Per fortuna, il romanzo di cui vi parlo oggi, il penultimo della serie “Ombre e Seta” (noooo… ma perché deve finire? Ne voglio ancora!), nelle prime pagine, ci porta in un gelido mese di marzo... quindi fa freddo..."Sacrebleu!" Quanto amo questo intercalare di Lucien... E adesso come fare per levarselo dalla testa? Impossibile!
"Sacrebleu. Chi era Eva per lui? Qualcuno con cui un tempo lui aveva deciso di passare il resto della sua vita. Ma non era più l’uomo che lei aveva conosciuto un tempo. E lei non era mai stata la donna che lui aveva pensato di conoscere."
Siamo nel 1829, in Francia, a Château La Perle, la residenza elegante e sontuosa del giovane Marchese di Touraine che, dopo la recente morte del padre, decide di portare avanti gli stessi ambiziosi progetti: distinguersi nella produzione di vini pregiati e, soprattutto, diventare un viticoltore progressista. Grazie alla sua mentalità imprenditoriale, moderna e innovativa, vede in questo approccio l’unica via per restituire prestigio al suo paese, ancora ferito dalle sconfitte napoleoniche che hanno scosso l’Europa e piegato l’orgoglio francese, nuovamente sotto la monarchia borbonica.
«La maggior parte dei viticoltori non tratta i propri operai come fate voi.»
Lucien, in passato, ha avuto un ruolo attivo in politica. E’ stato un giovane idealista, troppo ingenuo per rendersi conto degli intrighi in cui si era cacciato. Ebbene sì, sono quasi caduta dal divano, quando ho scoperto la sua vera identità! E' stato per me un vero colpo di scena! L’autrice va a pescare direttamente nel primo volume per riprendere il suo protagonista, che era una figura di spicco, anche se marginale, senza però tradirne l’essenza, ma arricchendo la sua personalità di sfumature più mature, pur mantenendo intatte le caratteristiche che lo hanno reso riconoscibile, nella sua versione più giovane.
«Il nostro sistema qui forse è poco ortodosso» disse Lucien. «Una volta pagati i costi di gestione, i profitti alla fine dell’anno saranno condivisi. Questo dà agli operai una partecipazione al loro lavoro, oltre al salario giornaliero. È la strada del futuro e la visione di papà.»
Come potevo resistere? Ho ripreso in mano il primo volume, e mi sono ritrovata a rileggerlo con rinnovato entusiasmo, ritrovando lui, Mariana, l’enigmatico Lord Percival Bretagne alla sua prima apparizione, ma soprattutto, Lord Nicholas Asquith, all’epoca, ancora un affascinante spia al servizio della Corona britannica. Ahi… e mi sono di nuovo innamorata di lui! Che personaggio magnetico! Incredibilmente ambiguo un po' str*nz… ops… ma assolutamente indimenticabile! Rileggendo, ho potuto apprezzare ancora di più i sottili intrecci e i personaggi che hanno gettato le basi per i futuri sviluppi della serie. Storie autoconclusive, certo, ma che lette in sequenza offrono il piacere di seguire ogni incastro con chiarezza.
«Quindi sapete che è il miglior vino di questa regione di Bordeaux.» «Ha un fine equilibrio tra il dolce e l’acidità.» Il vecchio socchiuse gli occhi, come se stesse riflettendo. «Potrebbe suscitare un bel po’ di scalpore, il vostro vino.»
Torniamo però a Lucien: ora è un ventisettenne, più tranquillo per quanto riguarda la passione politica, anche se nel suo cuore, sono ancora vivi gli ideali della Rivoluzione Francese, tanto da voler essere un esempio. La sua umanità e il suo spirito imprenditoriale sono il mezzo per ispirare le classi più ricche in modo da aiutare di riflesso, quelle meno abbienti. Democratico e alla mano, lavora tra le sue vigne come un comune bracciante, curando con dedizione le dolci colline che circondano il maniero, e che arrivano a lambire le rive di un laghetto ghiacciato, che sarà teatro di una pattinata tra ospiti e… di un primo, inatteso colpo di scena! In realtà una doppietta, se consideriamo anche l’incontro con una vecchia conoscenza! Una figura perennemente viva nella sua memoria, nel suo cuore e nei suoi sensi, anche se in verità, sono l’odio e il rancore a ruggire per primi, mentre tenta di mettere a tacere tutti gli altri sentimenti! Ma chi è questa donna che suscita in lui così tanto disprezzo e perché?
"Quindi eccola lì, con il viso a non più di cinque centimetri dalla vita di Lady Portia — confezionare abiti era un’attività intima — all’interno di Château La Perle, un palazzo che raggiungeva vette di una raffinatezza sobria e ariosa"
Lei è Eva, la sorella di Isabel Galante, diventata nel frattempo l’attuale Lady Percival Bretagne. Ah...Come dimenticare il volume dedicato proprio a Percy e a Isabel, dove la protagonista faceva la parte della “misteriosa adescatrice” in un locale malfamato? Ve la ricordate: pronta a mettere in campo tutte le sue doti femminili, per sfidare un lupo famelico, in una partita a carte, che darà il via a una fuga rocambolesca, alla volta della tenuta di campagna dei Bretagne? Wow che romanzo anche quello! Scusate le invasioni di campo, ma ho amato ogni volume della serie!
"Quello era il suo passato. Un passato da cui ogni cliente aristocratica che acquisiva la allontanava sempre più. Nessuno avrebbe più potuto toccare lei o la sua famiglia. Mai più."
In ogni caso, tornando a Eva, già in quell’occasione abbiamo avuto un assaggio della personalità della seconda sorella Galante, della sua ambizione, del suo straordinario talento come sarta, ma soprattutto delle ombre scure che dolorosamente avvolgono il suo passato, nel quale è stata vittima, senza colpe, di un nemico privo di scrupoli e di un uomo che, l’ha ferita e abbandonata, proprio nel momento in cui era più esposta e vulnerabile, così piena di speranza, per un amore dolce, puro e vero, talmente intenso da risultare travolgente, seppur appena sbocciato.
"Ogni tanto il lato oscuro di Eva tentava di tornare alla luce. Il suo lato oscuro poteva essere persistente. Seppur celato sotto strati di azioni misurate e di autocontrollo accumulati nel corso degli ultimi tre anni, questo lato esisteva ancora."
In “Sua per una notte” scopriamo finalmente chi è davvero! Una personalità complessa e sfuggente, difficile da incasellare, ma che poco alla volta viene svelata in tutte le sue sfaccettature. Ogni nodo si allenta, rivelando un intricato intreccio di segreti, sofferenze, dubbi e ombre, che ancora gravano sul suo cuore. Sono ferite profonde che alimentano la sfiducia, il senso di colpa e un doloroso sentimento di inadeguatezza, che le impediscono di percepirsi “pura” e degna di essere amata. Ed è per questo che, pur essendo innamorata di Lucien, erige tra sé e la felicità delle spesse barriere, che solo la pazienza e la dedizione di un uomo che ama davvero, potranno abbattere. Mentre nasconde una giovane vita di nome Ariel, scaturita da quella notte magica.
"I progressi che faceva nel mondo contavano solo nella misura in cui facevano fare progressi alla posizione di Ariel. Lei non valeva nulla. Lui valeva tutto."
Dietro alla determinazione di Eva, nel voler creare una professione di successo, per dimostrare il suo valore come donna indipendente, in un’epoca in cui la figura femminile è ancora bistrattata, si nasconde tanto altro. Una sicurezza esibita, che però cela un animo ferito, rimasto fermo a quel giorno del passato, che ha dettato un risveglio amaro e traumatico, dopo una notte perfetta! Un evento che ha distrutto il legame tra lei e Lucien, così come la fiducia reciproca e il rispettivo amor proprio! Ma ora è il momento di venire a capo della verità! ed è per questo, che saranno costretti a intraprendere un viaggio avventuroso, che li porterà tra Londra, Parigi e la Scozia, sulle orme del passato per poter vivere il futuro, finalmente liberi!
"Lei aveva avuto indosso solo un vestito di mussola insignificante con un filo d’erba al posto dell’anello, ed era stato assolutamente perfetto. Per qualche giorno. E poi era andato tutto a rotoli. Emise un sospiro carico di frustrazione. Quel giorno pensava troppo spesso a quella volta e a lui."
La razionalità diventa il vero nemico da abbattere, poiché continua a impedire ai loro cuori di cantare all’unisono una melodia che profuma di anime ritrovate, di destino, di nuove possibilità e di un futuro condiviso. Entrambi i protagonisti saranno costretti ad affrontare un percorso personale di trasformazione, per poi accogliere e custodire l’anima ferita dell’altro, soprattutto quella di Eva, che avrà bisogno di tutto l’aiuto, la pazienza e le rassicurazioni di Lucien, prima di poter tornare a brillare.
Un cammino tutto in salita, difficile, ma costellato di momenti esaltanti, in cui due giovani destinati a stare insieme dovranno imparare di nuovo a credere nell’impossibile! E quando finalmente raggiungeranno la meta, li attenderà un vero tripudio d’amore… con un colpo di scena super romantico! Senza dimenticare qualche immancabile momento di ironia, durante il loro viaggio avventuroso, grazie al quale riscoprono le affinità che li aveva uniti, compresi i lati del carattere che non conoscevano, l'uno dell'altra, come la stessa maniera di ridere insieme, nei momenti più buffi... e che hanno fatto ridere tanto anche me!
"Si fissarono l’un l’altra separati dal cocchiere immobile. «La gente tende a trovarsi in pericolo di vita quando siamo nei paraggi» disse Lucien, con tono asciutto come la polvere. Eva si lasciò sfuggire una risata improvvisa."
Una lettura che, a mio giudizio, si è rivelata ricca, intensa, profonda e ben costruita, intrisa di pathos, desiderio e di una passione capace di lambire le pagine fino a renderle incandescenti. Una fiamma che travolge due corpi rimasti muti e chiusi per troppo tempo, trasformandoli in strumenti potenti al servizio di un sentimento autentico, intenso e vitale, in cui le pulsioni fisiche diventano un linguaggio segreto per dialogare con le rispettive anime. Eva e Lucien non sono dei giovani semplicemente in preda al piacere, ma sono essenze pure e selettive, che hanno scelto di esprimere la loro istintività, soltanto con chi è in grado di animare e coinvolgere i reciproci sensi. Si sono scelti, voluti e amati! Non è forse la massima espressione di un erotismo romantico?
"Come forse ricorderai? I suoi sogni ricordavano quella notte almeno una volta alla settimana. «L’abbandono potrebbe essere un motivo sufficiente.» Questo attirò la sua attenzione. «Abbandono?» Lei non esitò. «Oh, sì, mi hai proprio abbandonata.» E ora Lucien capì cosa vedeva nei suoi occhi. Rabbia. Una rabbia pari alla sua, in effetti."
Ancora una volta l’autrice mi ha conquistata con l'ironia, con il suo stile vivace, pieno di mordente, con una trama originale, ben radicata nel contesto storico, arricchita da descrizioni raffinate degli ambienti e delle atmosfere. I dialoghi risultano veritieri ed esemplari nel rendere unico ciascun personaggio, distinguibile e sfaccettato, mentre ogni aspetto trova esaltazione grazie alla traduzione impeccabile di Isabella Nanni, che ancora una volta ha elargito il suo tocco, per questa ennesima pubblicazione.
«La parte di te qui…» la mano si fermò sopra il cuore, «che parla a quello stesso posto dentro di me.» La luce della luna si rifletté nei suoi luminosi occhi castani mentre lo fissava. «Un linguaggio che solo i nostri cuori conoscono.»
Un romanzo che mi ha intrattenuta, divertita moltissimo e soddisfatta in ogni sua parte, pertanto lo consiglio a tutti coloro che amano il genere storico e che desiderano essere travolti da una trama avvincente, romantica e appassionata. Ah… vi aspetto con la recensione del prossimo volume, che vedrà protagonista una figura finora marginale, destinata a conquistare un nobile in incognito… fango sul vestito incluso! Buona lettura e alla prossima!
Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano
(Recensione pubblicata nel blog "Crispi's Books)
Buongiorno, amiche lettrici!
Come state? Siete in vacanza o vi state sciogliendo sotto il sole estivo? Per fortuna, il romanzo di cui vi parlo oggi, il penultimo della serie “Ombre e Seta” (noooo… ma perché deve finire? Ne voglio ancora!), nelle prime pagine, ci porta in un gelido mese di marzo... quindi fa freddo..."Sacrebleu!" Quanto amo questo intercalare di Lucien... E adesso come fare per levarselo dalla testa? Impossibile!
"Sacrebleu. Chi era Eva per lui? Qualcuno con cui un tempo lui aveva deciso di passare il resto della sua vita. Ma non era più l’uomo che lei aveva conosciuto un tempo. E lei non era mai stata la donna che lui aveva pensato di conoscere."
Siamo nel 1829, in Francia, a Château La Perle, la residenza elegante e sontuosa del giovane Marchese di Touraine che, dopo la recente morte del padre, decide di portare avanti gli stessi ambiziosi progetti: distinguersi nella produzione di vini pregiati e, soprattutto, diventare un viticoltore progressista. Grazie alla sua mentalità imprenditoriale, moderna e innovativa, vede in questo approccio l’unica via per restituire prestigio al suo paese, ancora ferito dalle sconfitte napoleoniche che hanno scosso l’Europa e piegato l’orgoglio francese, nuovamente sotto la monarchia borbonica.
«La maggior parte dei viticoltori non tratta i propri operai come fate voi.»
Lucien, in passato, ha avuto un ruolo attivo in politica. E’ stato un giovane idealista, troppo ingenuo per rendersi conto degli intrighi in cui si era cacciato. Ebbene sì, sono quasi caduta dal divano, quando ho scoperto la sua vera identità! E' stato per me un vero colpo di scena! L’autrice va a pescare direttamente nel primo volume per riprendere il suo protagonista, che era una figura di spicco, anche se marginale, senza però tradirne l’essenza, ma arricchendo la sua personalità di sfumature più mature, pur mantenendo intatte le caratteristiche che lo hanno reso riconoscibile, nella sua versione più giovane.
«Il nostro sistema qui forse è poco ortodosso» disse Lucien. «Una volta pagati i costi di gestione, i profitti alla fine dell’anno saranno condivisi. Questo dà agli operai una partecipazione al loro lavoro, oltre al salario giornaliero. È la strada del futuro e la visione di papà.»
Come potevo resistere? Ho ripreso in mano il primo volume, e mi sono ritrovata a rileggerlo con rinnovato entusiasmo, ritrovando lui, Mariana, l’enigmatico Lord Percival Bretagne alla sua prima apparizione, ma soprattutto, Lord Nicholas Asquith, all’epoca, ancora un affascinante spia al servizio della Corona britannica. Ahi… e mi sono di nuovo innamorata di lui! Che personaggio magnetico! Incredibilmente ambiguo un po' str*nz… ops… ma assolutamente indimenticabile! Rileggendo, ho potuto apprezzare ancora di più i sottili intrecci e i personaggi che hanno gettato le basi per i futuri sviluppi della serie. Storie autoconclusive, certo, ma che lette in sequenza offrono il piacere di seguire ogni incastro con chiarezza.
«Quindi sapete che è il miglior vino di questa regione di Bordeaux.» «Ha un fine equilibrio tra il dolce e l’acidità.» Il vecchio socchiuse gli occhi, come se stesse riflettendo. «Potrebbe suscitare un bel po’ di scalpore, il vostro vino.»
Torniamo però a Lucien: ora è un ventisettenne, più tranquillo per quanto riguarda la passione politica, anche se nel suo cuore, sono ancora vivi gli ideali della Rivoluzione Francese, tanto da voler essere un esempio. La sua umanità e il suo spirito imprenditoriale sono il mezzo per ispirare le classi più ricche in modo da aiutare di riflesso, quelle meno abbienti. Democratico e alla mano, lavora tra le sue vigne come un comune bracciante, curando con dedizione le dolci colline che circondano il maniero, e che arrivano a lambire le rive di un laghetto ghiacciato, che sarà teatro di una pattinata tra ospiti e… di un primo, inatteso colpo di scena! In realtà una doppietta, se consideriamo anche l’incontro con una vecchia conoscenza! Una figura perennemente viva nella sua memoria, nel suo cuore e nei suoi sensi, anche se in verità, sono l’odio e il rancore a ruggire per primi, mentre tenta di mettere a tacere tutti gli altri sentimenti! Ma chi è questa donna che suscita in lui così tanto disprezzo e perché?
"Quindi eccola lì, con il viso a non più di cinque centimetri dalla vita di Lady Portia — confezionare abiti era un’attività intima — all’interno di Château La Perle, un palazzo che raggiungeva vette di una raffinatezza sobria e ariosa"
Lei è Eva, la sorella di Isabel Galante, diventata nel frattempo l’attuale Lady Percival Bretagne. Ah...Come dimenticare il volume dedicato proprio a Percy e a Isabel, dove la protagonista faceva la parte della “misteriosa adescatrice” in un locale malfamato? Ve la ricordate: pronta a mettere in campo tutte le sue doti femminili, per sfidare un lupo famelico, in una partita a carte, che darà il via a una fuga rocambolesca, alla volta della tenuta di campagna dei Bretagne? Wow che romanzo anche quello! Scusate le invasioni di campo, ma ho amato ogni volume della serie!
"Quello era il suo passato. Un passato da cui ogni cliente aristocratica che acquisiva la allontanava sempre più. Nessuno avrebbe più potuto toccare lei o la sua famiglia. Mai più."
In ogni caso, tornando a Eva, già in quell’occasione abbiamo avuto un assaggio della personalità della seconda sorella Galante, della sua ambizione, del suo straordinario talento come sarta, ma soprattutto delle ombre scure che dolorosamente avvolgono il suo passato, nel quale è stata vittima, senza colpe, di un nemico privo di scrupoli e di un uomo che, l’ha ferita e abbandonata, proprio nel momento in cui era più esposta e vulnerabile, così piena di speranza, per un amore dolce, puro e vero, talmente intenso da risultare travolgente, seppur appena sbocciato.
"Ogni tanto il lato oscuro di Eva tentava di tornare alla luce. Il suo lato oscuro poteva essere persistente. Seppur celato sotto strati di azioni misurate e di autocontrollo accumulati nel corso degli ultimi tre anni, questo lato esisteva ancora."
In “Sua per una notte” scopriamo finalmente chi è davvero! Una personalità complessa e sfuggente, difficile da incasellare, ma che poco alla volta viene svelata in tutte le sue sfaccettature. Ogni nodo si allenta, rivelando un intricato intreccio di segreti, sofferenze, dubbi e ombre, che ancora gravano sul suo cuore. Sono ferite profonde che alimentano la sfiducia, il senso di colpa e un doloroso sentimento di inadeguatezza, che le impediscono di percepirsi “pura” e degna di essere amata. Ed è per questo che, pur essendo innamorata di Lucien, erige tra sé e la felicità delle spesse barriere, che solo la pazienza e la dedizione di un uomo che ama davvero, potranno abbattere. Mentre nasconde una giovane vita di nome Ariel, scaturita da quella notte magica.
"I progressi che faceva nel mondo contavano solo nella misura in cui facevano fare progressi alla posizione di Ariel. Lei non valeva nulla. Lui valeva tutto."
Dietro alla determinazione di Eva, nel voler creare una professione di successo, per dimostrare il suo valore come donna indipendente, in un’epoca in cui la figura femminile è ancora bistrattata, si nasconde tanto altro. Una sicurezza esibita, che però cela un animo ferito, rimasto fermo a quel giorno del passato, che ha dettato un risveglio amaro e traumatico, dopo una notte perfetta! Un evento che ha distrutto il legame tra lei e Lucien, così come la fiducia reciproca e il rispettivo amor proprio! Ma ora è il momento di venire a capo della verità! ed è per questo, che saranno costretti a intraprendere un viaggio avventuroso, che li porterà tra Londra, Parigi e la Scozia, sulle orme del passato per poter vivere il futuro, finalmente liberi!
"Lei aveva avuto indosso solo un vestito di mussola insignificante con un filo d’erba al posto dell’anello, ed era stato assolutamente perfetto. Per qualche giorno. E poi era andato tutto a rotoli. Emise un sospiro carico di frustrazione. Quel giorno pensava troppo spesso a quella volta e a lui."
La razionalità diventa il vero nemico da abbattere, poiché continua a impedire ai loro cuori di cantare all’unisono una melodia che profuma di anime ritrovate, di destino, di nuove possibilità e di un futuro condiviso. Entrambi i protagonisti saranno costretti ad affrontare un percorso personale di trasformazione, per poi accogliere e custodire l’anima ferita dell’altro, soprattutto quella di Eva, che avrà bisogno di tutto l’aiuto, la pazienza e le rassicurazioni di Lucien, prima di poter tornare a brillare.
Un cammino tutto in salita, difficile, ma costellato di momenti esaltanti, in cui due giovani destinati a stare insieme dovranno imparare di nuovo a credere nell’impossibile! E quando finalmente raggiungeranno la meta, li attenderà un vero tripudio d’amore… con un colpo di scena super romantico! Senza dimenticare qualche immancabile momento di ironia, durante il loro viaggio avventuroso, grazie al quale riscoprono le affinità che li aveva uniti, compresi i lati del carattere che non conoscevano, l'uno dell'altra, come la stessa maniera di ridere insieme, nei momenti più buffi... e che hanno fatto ridere tanto anche me!
"Si fissarono l’un l’altra separati dal cocchiere immobile. «La gente tende a trovarsi in pericolo di vita quando siamo nei paraggi» disse Lucien, con tono asciutto come la polvere. Eva si lasciò sfuggire una risata improvvisa."
Una lettura che, a mio giudizio, si è rivelata ricca, intensa, profonda e ben costruita, intrisa di pathos, desiderio e di una passione capace di lambire le pagine fino a renderle incandescenti. Una fiamma che travolge due corpi rimasti muti e chiusi per troppo tempo, trasformandoli in strumenti potenti al servizio di un sentimento autentico, intenso e vitale, in cui le pulsioni fisiche diventano un linguaggio segreto per dialogare con le rispettive anime. Eva e Lucien non sono dei giovani semplicemente in preda al piacere, ma sono essenze pure e selettive, che hanno scelto di esprimere la loro istintività, soltanto con chi è in grado di animare e coinvolgere i reciproci sensi. Si sono scelti, voluti e amati! Non è forse la massima espressione di un erotismo romantico?
"Come forse ricorderai? I suoi sogni ricordavano quella notte almeno una volta alla settimana. «L’abbandono potrebbe essere un motivo sufficiente.» Questo attirò la sua attenzione. «Abbandono?» Lei non esitò. «Oh, sì, mi hai proprio abbandonata.» E ora Lucien capì cosa vedeva nei suoi occhi. Rabbia. Una rabbia pari alla sua, in effetti."
Ancora una volta l’autrice mi ha conquistata con l'ironia, con il suo stile vivace, pieno di mordente, con una trama originale, ben radicata nel contesto storico, arricchita da descrizioni raffinate degli ambienti e delle atmosfere. I dialoghi risultano veritieri ed esemplari nel rendere unico ciascun personaggio, distinguibile e sfaccettato, mentre ogni aspetto trova esaltazione grazie alla traduzione impeccabile di Isabella Nanni, che ancora una volta ha elargito il suo tocco, per questa ennesima pubblicazione.
«La parte di te qui…» la mano si fermò sopra il cuore, «che parla a quello stesso posto dentro di me.» La luce della luna si rifletté nei suoi luminosi occhi castani mentre lo fissava. «Un linguaggio che solo i nostri cuori conoscono.»
Un romanzo che mi ha intrattenuta, divertita moltissimo e soddisfatta in ogni sua parte, pertanto lo consiglio a tutti coloro che amano il genere storico e che desiderano essere travolti da una trama avvincente, romantica e appassionata. Ah… vi aspetto con la recensione del prossimo volume, che vedrà protagonista una figura finora marginale, destinata a conquistare un nobile in incognito… fango sul vestito incluso! Buona lettura e alla prossima!
Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano
March 1, 2022
This book was fun, but also very frustrating for me. My biggest issue when it comes to romances is when entire plots are based around one person not telling the other person something - it's a common trope, and when executed well, it works, but other times, it just becomes repetitive. Unfortunately, a lot of One Night His Lady revolves around three secrets that could make the characters' lives easier (and the book shorter) if they simply told each other the truth.
I enjoyed the back and forth between the hero and heroine in this story, I especially loved that neither was English, but I would have loved more backstory and how their respective pasts influence them. You get a decent amount from the hero but the heroine comes from Spain, had a very complex backstory, and is Jewish, but these hardly get much attention. Instead, a good portion of time is spent on tertiary characters who I assume are part of future books or past books in this series, but don't really have any bearing on this novel.
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the back and forth between the hero and heroine in this story, I especially loved that neither was English, but I would have loved more backstory and how their respective pasts influence them. You get a decent amount from the hero but the heroine comes from Spain, had a very complex backstory, and is Jewish, but these hardly get much attention. Instead, a good portion of time is spent on tertiary characters who I assume are part of future books or past books in this series, but don't really have any bearing on this novel.
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2022
Love at first sight, married, second chance, intrigue, betrayal, mystery, this story has it all! This is book 6 of Shadows and Silk but is a standalone. This book is about Eva Galante and Lucien Capet. They both lie to each other so how can they make their love work? This is a book about love, commitments, family loyalty. This book has so much in it! Eva is a strong woman who works to make something of herself. Lucien tries to balance who he is, want he wants, whats expected of him. Even though this is a standalone parts of previous books come in to play. Great characters, great story line, steam and romance. This book has it all! Great read!
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
May 9, 2022
What a story! Intrigue, drama and most importantly love. Eva & Lucien had a whirlwind romance that was tragically cut short through deception and lies. In the 4 years since both are wounded parties holding plenty of anger and resentment. So when Eva inadvertently finds herself accompanying a client to the Marquis French Vineyards to design his future wife’s wardrobe, she has no idea the Marquis is indeed the man she once loved. When he finds her there and learns they may indeed be married, he has no choice but to journey with her to Scotland to find the proof of their Gretna wedding to end their farce marriage. Their passions run deep and they fight to resist the temptations that the past brings. Their journey to rediscover their love and gain the trust they lacked in the past may just help heal the old wounds that threaten to destroy them. In the end, they will need to forgive themselves for the wrongs they each did to one another.
The passion between these two leaps off the page, they are electric. Had me hooked from the start and I could not put it down.
The passion between these two leaps off the page, they are electric. Had me hooked from the start and I could not put it down.
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September 12, 2021BOOK 6 COMING THIS SPRING!
ONE NIGHT HIS LADY releases on 3/29/22 and will be available in KU. So mark your calendar!
She thought he was her home.
He thought she was his everything.
Now they have a second chance to prove they were right all along…
Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Reserve your copy: http://mybook.to/OneNightHisLady
ONE NIGHT HIS LADY releases on 3/29/22 and will be available in KU. So mark your calendar!
She thought he was her home.
He thought she was his everything.
Now they have a second chance to prove they were right all along…
Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Reserve your copy: http://mybook.to/OneNightHisLady
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