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Royal Command #1
Dangerous Liaisons
This is an updated cover edition of B00MA9XLHI.
Showbiz celebs hounded by the paparazzi. A Tudor queen's command, "I direct and beseech my heirs to find love where they may", drives her present-day descendants to break the bounds of marriage, the law, and the church, with heartbreaking consequences.
Can the ultimate sin of loving too much be forgiven?
Showbiz celebs hounded by the paparazzi. A Tudor queen's command, "I direct and beseech my heirs to find love where they may", drives her present-day descendants to break the bounds of marriage, the law, and the church, with heartbreaking consequences.
Can the ultimate sin of loving too much be forgiven?
Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2014
115 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Stuart
24 books104 followersSarah Stuart is the multi-award-winning author of the sizzling Royal Command Family Saga, Christian Richard and Maria trilogy, and DCI Gerald Croft Thrillers.
She is a Readers' Favorite reviewer, and her passions are theatre, music, history, travel. and wildlife. 100% of her royalties are donated to animal charities worldwide.
She is a Readers' Favorite reviewer, and her passions are theatre, music, history, travel. and wildlife. 100% of her royalties are donated to animal charities worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
January 16, 2015
Outside of novels like The Notebook or Bridges over Madison County, romance is normally not my genre, but like The Notebook or Bridges over Madison County, I truly enjoyed reading Dangerous Liaisons by Sarah Stuart.
Stuart has written a very good novel that speaks to the readers without trying to talk over their heads while avoiding the romance genre’s sometimes overuse of similes. In fact, I would rather like to think of Dangerous Liaisons as falling into both the romance genre and mainstream fiction genre. I would say the Drama genre, but in the literary world that is taken as theatrical works. Coincidentally, much of Stuart’s story revolves around the theatrical industry, bringing the reader into the fascinating business to show a nobody quickly grow to stardom.
The story starts as a love-at-first-sight romance invoked through a chance encounter and quickly grows even more interesting with the references to the family heirloom, the journal of Margaret, James IV of Scotland's queen, the chance audition that kick-starts the couple’s life together, and everything that follows.
Sarah Stuart’s thought-provoking novel is broken into two almost equal length parts, or books, with two dramatically different feels. Where in the first book the reader is placed within the uplifting and sometimes disappointing events of the very believable characters, the second book transforms the ride from the Tunnel of Love into the Fun House. In the second book, Stuart bravely takes the situations/issues less travelled, sometimes shocking me so much that I was thankful that reading is normally done while sitting or reclining.
Dangerous Liaisons is done so well that I was left thinking about it for sometime afterwards.
Disappointed that the novel has finished, I now wait impatiently for the next book in the series.
-Michael Kroft, author of On Herring Cove Road
Stuart has written a very good novel that speaks to the readers without trying to talk over their heads while avoiding the romance genre’s sometimes overuse of similes. In fact, I would rather like to think of Dangerous Liaisons as falling into both the romance genre and mainstream fiction genre. I would say the Drama genre, but in the literary world that is taken as theatrical works. Coincidentally, much of Stuart’s story revolves around the theatrical industry, bringing the reader into the fascinating business to show a nobody quickly grow to stardom.
The story starts as a love-at-first-sight romance invoked through a chance encounter and quickly grows even more interesting with the references to the family heirloom, the journal of Margaret, James IV of Scotland's queen, the chance audition that kick-starts the couple’s life together, and everything that follows.
Sarah Stuart’s thought-provoking novel is broken into two almost equal length parts, or books, with two dramatically different feels. Where in the first book the reader is placed within the uplifting and sometimes disappointing events of the very believable characters, the second book transforms the ride from the Tunnel of Love into the Fun House. In the second book, Stuart bravely takes the situations/issues less travelled, sometimes shocking me so much that I was thankful that reading is normally done while sitting or reclining.
Dangerous Liaisons is done so well that I was left thinking about it for sometime afterwards.
Disappointed that the novel has finished, I now wait impatiently for the next book in the series.
-Michael Kroft, author of On Herring Cove Road
August 21, 2015
It is a tricky thing to write across varying time lines. Sometimes it falls flat and other times the reader just gets sucked in. Dangerous Liaisons certainly grabbed my attention at the start and held it throughout. This is a story with familiar themes of love betrayal and has significant sexual content some of which is taboo so as long as you go in with that in mind, you won't be offended. The sex scenes are probably the weakness for me but that is my personal perspective, I am a terrible skipper of sex scenes in books. It is a significant and important part of the story however and when I say sex there is also something much darker in that Sarah includes rape and incest also. Overall, she pulls this off with a great deal of subtlety by which I mean while graphic, it is not prurient. Overall I have to recommend this as a very clever read. Talent shines throughout in terms of storytelling and that is my number one priority when I come to read and review a book. Great story, well told, inventive, original and enjoyable. 5 stars from me.
June 13, 2015
I was hesitant when I began Dangerous Liaisons because I don't normally read Romance. My thoughts on romance books makes me think of Mills & Boons. How wrong was I? This book was full of surprises, yes there was romance but not the kind I expected....can't say too much without spoilers...but be prepared, you have to have a very open mind when you read Sarah's Stuart's fantastic novel.
As far as the characters go, they are well rounded and all make their presence known. The author takes them from strength to strength.
The Book of Hours, the basis of Dangerous Liaisons, shows the extent of good research the author has undertaken. Sarah Stuart has taken time in planning this novel and this can be seen with the research into history, the Stage, her characters and the story. It is an intricate story, complex in parts. having said that, the author conveys it a brilliant way. All pans out well and all is resolved at the end. Subplots and the Book of Hours are all brought together nicely. A great read.
As far as the characters go, they are well rounded and all make their presence known. The author takes them from strength to strength.
The Book of Hours, the basis of Dangerous Liaisons, shows the extent of good research the author has undertaken. Sarah Stuart has taken time in planning this novel and this can be seen with the research into history, the Stage, her characters and the story. It is an intricate story, complex in parts. having said that, the author conveys it a brilliant way. All pans out well and all is resolved at the end. Subplots and the Book of Hours are all brought together nicely. A great read.
January 6, 2015
One touch, sparks fly, true love for life time.
Lizzie Cameron was leaving her parent’s home in Scotland to join university in London. Before departing she began to search the house’s attic and found an old diary. It belonged to Queen Margaret of the sixteenth century and was named “Book of Hours”. The diary had the evidence that Lizzie had royal blood in her. The queen had written a command for her heirs, “I direct and beseech my heirs to find love where they may. Love is a gift of God, not of kings.” Lizzie’s mother told her that the book was being passed on from mother to daughter for generations with a promise to find true love and have a daughter to whom the book could be passed on. Lizzie made the same promise to her mother and went to London for her new life.
One day she was walking on the road when the strap of her purse broke and all her belongings fell on the ground. A tall, dark-haired man came to her help and asked her if he should fix the strap. Their hands touched by accident and everything stopped for them. They felt a strong connection that can’t be named like an invisible force, a thread that was pulling them together. In that one instant that stretched to a thousand years, they both felt that they have found someone really special. The backstreet boy dared to ask her out but stopped. How could he offer any luxury to a girl wearing Gucci. So Michael just fixed the strap and went away with only the warm feeling on his hand. But he had no idea that he had dropped his cell phone there.
Days passed and Lizzie Cameron tried hard to forget that dark-haired stranger who stopped her heart with just a single touch but failed. She left her university and had a dispute with her parents. She was determined to find him among the streets of London and if he also loved her then she’ll be able to fulfil her promise to Margaret. But without any idea of where he lives, what his name is, where he works, she began to find him with the cell phone whose battery was running out and which had no contact numbers.
Love and faith finally brought her in the arms of Michael. He had no resources, no money, no proper job but had a dream to become a good actor and to swim his way out of this poverty and give Lizzie the comforts she deserves. It all didn’t matter to her, what mattered most was Michael’s condition that if they were to spend life together then they can’t have children. Can Lizzie be with Michael and be the last heir to Margaret and break her promise? Will it be still possible for them to be together once their lives take sudden shifts? Is it possible for them to fulfil their promise of not loving anyone else ever again?
Dangerous Liaisons by Sarah Stuart is the story of love, faith and of a hard journey of a young couple determined to make their mark in music and drama with a brilliant touch of some historical fiction. This book is music to one’s ears. The sweet romance will make the butterflies in your stomach spread their wings and heartbreaks and tragedies will make you cry.
Also check review at http://reviewbyridz2210.blogspot.com/...
Lizzie Cameron was leaving her parent’s home in Scotland to join university in London. Before departing she began to search the house’s attic and found an old diary. It belonged to Queen Margaret of the sixteenth century and was named “Book of Hours”. The diary had the evidence that Lizzie had royal blood in her. The queen had written a command for her heirs, “I direct and beseech my heirs to find love where they may. Love is a gift of God, not of kings.” Lizzie’s mother told her that the book was being passed on from mother to daughter for generations with a promise to find true love and have a daughter to whom the book could be passed on. Lizzie made the same promise to her mother and went to London for her new life.
One day she was walking on the road when the strap of her purse broke and all her belongings fell on the ground. A tall, dark-haired man came to her help and asked her if he should fix the strap. Their hands touched by accident and everything stopped for them. They felt a strong connection that can’t be named like an invisible force, a thread that was pulling them together. In that one instant that stretched to a thousand years, they both felt that they have found someone really special. The backstreet boy dared to ask her out but stopped. How could he offer any luxury to a girl wearing Gucci. So Michael just fixed the strap and went away with only the warm feeling on his hand. But he had no idea that he had dropped his cell phone there.
Days passed and Lizzie Cameron tried hard to forget that dark-haired stranger who stopped her heart with just a single touch but failed. She left her university and had a dispute with her parents. She was determined to find him among the streets of London and if he also loved her then she’ll be able to fulfil her promise to Margaret. But without any idea of where he lives, what his name is, where he works, she began to find him with the cell phone whose battery was running out and which had no contact numbers.
Love and faith finally brought her in the arms of Michael. He had no resources, no money, no proper job but had a dream to become a good actor and to swim his way out of this poverty and give Lizzie the comforts she deserves. It all didn’t matter to her, what mattered most was Michael’s condition that if they were to spend life together then they can’t have children. Can Lizzie be with Michael and be the last heir to Margaret and break her promise? Will it be still possible for them to be together once their lives take sudden shifts? Is it possible for them to fulfil their promise of not loving anyone else ever again?
Dangerous Liaisons by Sarah Stuart is the story of love, faith and of a hard journey of a young couple determined to make their mark in music and drama with a brilliant touch of some historical fiction. This book is music to one’s ears. The sweet romance will make the butterflies in your stomach spread their wings and heartbreaks and tragedies will make you cry.
Also check review at http://reviewbyridz2210.blogspot.com/...
November 21, 2014
I enjoyed reading Dangerous Liaisons by Sarah Stuart. Firstly, refreshingly, because she writes well. Her prose is clear and it flows with no snags in its path. Secondly, she is a good storyteller, and thirdly, the characters she creates are all interesting and believable. At first, I wondered why her book was called Dangerous Liaisons, as it seemed at first it was simply a rags to riches tale, about a young woman, named Lizzie, come to London from Scotland, not to seek her fortune so much as love, who meets Michael, a shelf stacker in a supermarket, who wants to be an actor, but as the tale grew and the relationships between the people in it became more complicated, tangled, to say the least, I understood why it was given such a title very well.
Reading the book was like listening to a piece of Classical music that builds from a simple theme to a very emotionally powerful ending. One of the themes that ran through the book for me was the contrast between the frustration, disappointment and emptiness of lust with the joys and pleasures of true erotic love. Another contrast I noticed and liked in the book was that between the quotes from the Book of Hours, inherited by Lizzie, and the way she and the other characters think and speak in the twenty first century. There is, to my ears, an unintentional poetry in such lines from the Book of Hours as these: "Tis for me to chivvy the household servants, or I must cook for myself and take a broom to the floors." I also liked these lines: "Sir Gunn spends many nights on his knees in prayer. Tis not the way to plant his seed in my belly and I fear he grows impatient."
The problems people cause for themselves by not telling each other the truth from the start are explored well in the book, as is the world of the theatre, what it is like to have success on stage, screen and on record, but most of all, it is an exploration of the pains and joys of love. It is a good story, well told, which is disturbing, emotionally, which builds and builds, until it leaves you stretched, alarmed, yet warmed, inside, and better to have read it at its end.
Reading the book was like listening to a piece of Classical music that builds from a simple theme to a very emotionally powerful ending. One of the themes that ran through the book for me was the contrast between the frustration, disappointment and emptiness of lust with the joys and pleasures of true erotic love. Another contrast I noticed and liked in the book was that between the quotes from the Book of Hours, inherited by Lizzie, and the way she and the other characters think and speak in the twenty first century. There is, to my ears, an unintentional poetry in such lines from the Book of Hours as these: "Tis for me to chivvy the household servants, or I must cook for myself and take a broom to the floors." I also liked these lines: "Sir Gunn spends many nights on his knees in prayer. Tis not the way to plant his seed in my belly and I fear he grows impatient."
The problems people cause for themselves by not telling each other the truth from the start are explored well in the book, as is the world of the theatre, what it is like to have success on stage, screen and on record, but most of all, it is an exploration of the pains and joys of love. It is a good story, well told, which is disturbing, emotionally, which builds and builds, until it leaves you stretched, alarmed, yet warmed, inside, and better to have read it at its end.
November 6, 2014
A young Scottish girl finds a journal in her attic that has been passed down to the daughters of her family for generations starting with Margaret, Queen of Scotland five hundred years ago, proof that the girl has royal blood. Due to a loveless marriage of her own, the queen directs her descendants to ‘find love wherever they may.’
Pray you do not find a similar journal in your own attic.
Because nowhere in the journal does the queen warn her descendants that that pursuit will get really complicated and likely involve a lot of pain.
The contemporary characters, Lizzie, Lisette and Michael are all involved with theater in London, but none of the plays they perform will ever be as gripping as the real-life drama they experience.
Lizzie and Lisette draw inspiration and guidance from the journal’s entries written by women in their family before them, but those entries do little to help them avoid recurring pitfalls the family’s women have experienced before them.
So, how to break the pattern? Well, you’ll have to read the book to find out.
The parallel experience of a family’s women separated by hundreds of years is an intriguing device that Sarah Stuart cleverly employs to create a rollercoaster of emotion and steamy desire- and all based on accurate history.
The pull of destiny, the force of fate, the power of love found ‘wherever they may’ makes for a spicy stew, but you’ll want seconds when you’re done.
If you love history, the theater, or just a good book to read, you’ll like this one a lot.
Pray you do not find a similar journal in your own attic.
Because nowhere in the journal does the queen warn her descendants that that pursuit will get really complicated and likely involve a lot of pain.
The contemporary characters, Lizzie, Lisette and Michael are all involved with theater in London, but none of the plays they perform will ever be as gripping as the real-life drama they experience.
Lizzie and Lisette draw inspiration and guidance from the journal’s entries written by women in their family before them, but those entries do little to help them avoid recurring pitfalls the family’s women have experienced before them.
So, how to break the pattern? Well, you’ll have to read the book to find out.
The parallel experience of a family’s women separated by hundreds of years is an intriguing device that Sarah Stuart cleverly employs to create a rollercoaster of emotion and steamy desire- and all based on accurate history.
The pull of destiny, the force of fate, the power of love found ‘wherever they may’ makes for a spicy stew, but you’ll want seconds when you’re done.
If you love history, the theater, or just a good book to read, you’ll like this one a lot.
May 2, 2015
My review of DANGEROUS LIAISONS BY SARAH STUART
I really enjoyed this modern romance, and yet was especially captivated by the historical thread that weaves through it.The characters are vivid and real: the Scottish setting, in particular is evocatively described. A young girl with a sheltered upbringing decides to 'buck the family trend' and become independent, following the command of a royal ancestor discovered through a closely-guarded secret, a family heirloom. She chooses London to fulfil this dream, and is thrown onto her own resources in a harsh world. There are intriguing insights into the world of London theatre and dark and unexpected twists that challenge your moral code as the royal command takes hold in receptive minds. I can't wait for Ilicit Passion to be released, to find out what happens to the next generation. This was one of the first novels I reviewed, but I've reviewed several more over the last few months and I knew I hadn't done this one justice, so I've come back and added to my original review. Highly recommended read.
get it at http://bookshow.me/B00M9CU1Z6
I really enjoyed this modern romance, and yet was especially captivated by the historical thread that weaves through it.The characters are vivid and real: the Scottish setting, in particular is evocatively described. A young girl with a sheltered upbringing decides to 'buck the family trend' and become independent, following the command of a royal ancestor discovered through a closely-guarded secret, a family heirloom. She chooses London to fulfil this dream, and is thrown onto her own resources in a harsh world. There are intriguing insights into the world of London theatre and dark and unexpected twists that challenge your moral code as the royal command takes hold in receptive minds. I can't wait for Ilicit Passion to be released, to find out what happens to the next generation. This was one of the first novels I reviewed, but I've reviewed several more over the last few months and I knew I hadn't done this one justice, so I've come back and added to my original review. Highly recommended read.
get it at http://bookshow.me/B00M9CU1Z6
October 8, 2014
Hmmm.... What can I say? If I'm like a lot of readers, I'm tired of paying the known authors to produce sub standard stories. So, I've been searching for new talent to read. This book was something I would not normally read - I'm a mystery/paranormal gal. However, I found this book, was intrigued by the story line and took a chance. Just like a bad accident, I could not look away from this book. It's the kind of book that has you yelling at the characters, "You idiot! Don't do it!" The twists and turns in this plot kept me, a mystery reader, interested and turning the page to see what happened next! It is a love story that leaves you guessing until the end. And, the ending is satisfying! (sorry if that is a spoiler? I just hate books that leave a bad taste in my mouth. I love the ending, although not what I guessed, one that works out!) If you are looking for a good read - something to keep you engaged and interested, this is the book for you!
October 17, 2014
I joined Goodreads to find books by new authors and this one rivals anything I've read by Nora Roberts, Anna O’Brian, Diane Palmer, or even Philippa Gregory. Lizzie had her life all mapped-out – university and then home to help run the estate that will be hers one day. She’s given a Book of Hours that proves she’s an illegitimate descendant of a queen! Determined to carry on the tradition of giving the book, with all its coded diary entries, to a daughter conceived in love she drops out of university to live with Michael, an amateur actor who wants to turn pro. I can’t say too much more without spoiling the surprises for other readers, but everything that happens – even the shocking bits – are inevitable – The end isn't revealed until the very last page. A WOW!
April 25, 2015
The story starts in the past, and at first I expected a Historical novel, but no it is essentially a story of the past and the present and how they link together. Lizzie finds a diary in her parent’s attic which proves she is descendant of a Scottish queen. While she tries to unravel the mystery she goes to London to University, and there she meets Michael. Although it is a romantic novel, I found it very emotional, and despite the author tackling a difficult subject I thought she did a fantastic job in a sincere and compassionate way. There is tragedy here, and love and loss but also many twists and turns. I found it a compelling novel that left me wanting to read more. The author is to be congratulated and I look forward very much to reading the second book in the series.
August 8, 2015
I was very intrigued by the synopsis. There is something very appealing about intertwining the past and present in a book, and if the author does a good job, it can be a rewarding experience. Sarah Stuart has superbly managed to combine a historical era and language with a more contemporary story, in a unique and coherent way.
I won't give spoilers but I will say that I thought the characters and their development carried the tale, very well.
Predominantly a love story with a few twists, and a bit of 'close to the bone' erotic scenes, I thought that the research of the past, the realism of theatre life, and landscape descriptions were skilfully done.
This was a very enjoyable read by a talented author. It gets my vote and recommendation.
I won't give spoilers but I will say that I thought the characters and their development carried the tale, very well.
Predominantly a love story with a few twists, and a bit of 'close to the bone' erotic scenes, I thought that the research of the past, the realism of theatre life, and landscape descriptions were skilfully done.
This was a very enjoyable read by a talented author. It gets my vote and recommendation.
December 11, 2014
I don't normally read romance novels but I am certainly glad that I picked this one up.
It was a really lovely love story until the middle of the book and surprise, surprise it turned into a Greek tragedy or a modern novel by Shakespeare. Without giving away spoilers I can say Sarah touches on topics that many writers would shy away from. That being said Sarah tackled them in an honest, forthright and in your face manner. Bravo!
It is also apparent that the author has a great deal of knowledge of the acting community and how it works.
Enjoyable!!! 5 Stars
It was a really lovely love story until the middle of the book and surprise, surprise it turned into a Greek tragedy or a modern novel by Shakespeare. Without giving away spoilers I can say Sarah touches on topics that many writers would shy away from. That being said Sarah tackled them in an honest, forthright and in your face manner. Bravo!
It is also apparent that the author has a great deal of knowledge of the acting community and how it works.
Enjoyable!!! 5 Stars
September 20, 2015
This book reminded me of the books I used to read by Jacqueline Suzanne and Jackie Collins. The glamorous world of stage super-stardom and fans, the disruption to anything approaching a normal life, the strange and complicated sexual liaisons. All set against the undercurrent of a historical diary of royal lineage- tying together the past and the present. The author handles difficult topics in a way that is admirable, and the story was a gripping saga throughout. The characters really stayed with me afterwards too.
January 17, 2015
I started this book and had no idea what I was in for - and it didn't disappoint! This is a tale of love through the generations guided somewhat by 'the book of hours' passed down through the female bloodline of a Queen. Fast paced, and an really engaging story line kept me gripped to the very last page. This is a romance with a difference - loving too much can lead to dangerous liaisons, and this story delivers it all. Recommended.
August 28, 2014
Loved it. Romance isn't normally my genre, but this is a boy meets girl with a difference. Great characters, well-drawn, great locations and insights into worlds we usually only see from front-of-house. Mix in a command from a Scottish queen, rags, riches, celebs and promises to keep, and you have an explosive cocktail. Pull the pin and see what happens!
October 24, 2014
Complicated is the word I would use to describe Sarah Stuart’s love story in Dangerous Liaisons. Weaved around the wonderful world of theatre, musicals and song, it tells the story of Michael and Lizzie’s love, their successes and failures as well as Lizzie’s historical links to a Tudor Queen. Several generations are represented and Part II will really surprise you.
October 23, 2014
Dangerous Liaisons was a great read. The author expertly pulls us into Lizzie and Michael's modern romance as they navigate through life and their love for each other. The reader is taken on a journey into the West End theater life, and I especially enjoyed the history woven into the story. Highly recommend.
Read
January 18, 2015This was truly a pleasure to read. I am a huge fan of history and theater so this book had me hooked from the start. With twists and turns and unforgettable romance, this novel kept me interested until the very end. I will be looking forward with great anticipation to future novels by Sarah Stuart. I can only hope history will repeat itself with her writing skill.
January 27, 2015
Dangerous Liaisons has a gripping storyline that kept me enthralled until the very end. A real page turner! I look forward to reading more from this very talented author.
March 18, 2015
great book a book I'd recommend
December 21, 2014
When I picked Dangerous Liaisons to read, I had no idea what I was in for. The story starts with a young girl, an only child, raised on a hunting estate in Scotland. She has flaming red curls and a book that had been passed down to her through generations called the Book of Hours. Lizzie Cameron works diligently at decoding this diary of sorts written by her ancestors who were of royal lineage in the 1500s. The message was always the same, to find love where they may. Love is a gift of God, not of kings.
When Lizzie leaves home and finds her way on her own in London, she meets Michael Marsh, handsome, talented, backstreet boy seeking a career in theater. This story is a rollercoaster ride as we see Michael and Lizzie marry, him rise to international stardom and fame through Lizzie's determination and connections. They bear two children, a girl first, then a boy. When Lisette, their daughter, turns fourteen years of age, Lizzie passes the Book of Hours on to her. Michael is always gone touring. Lizzie spends too much time alone. She has an affair with another man and conceives his child. Then the unspeakable happens. Lisette is groomed her entire life for theater and is cast in a leading role opposite her father, Michael, who she hardly knows. The storyline involves nudity and love scenes. I won't write a spoiler and give away the plot, but I will say that Sarah Stuart certainly knows how to weave a web of lies, deceit, heartbreak, forgiveness and healing. If you enjoy a steamy love scene, this book is for you. If you enjoy a plot that takes so many twists and turns that you sometimes aren't quite sure where you are, this is the book for you. Sarah did an excellent job of bringing all of the loose ends of the story full circle with an ending that leaves you sighing with relief, A well written story by an Indie author!
When Lizzie leaves home and finds her way on her own in London, she meets Michael Marsh, handsome, talented, backstreet boy seeking a career in theater. This story is a rollercoaster ride as we see Michael and Lizzie marry, him rise to international stardom and fame through Lizzie's determination and connections. They bear two children, a girl first, then a boy. When Lisette, their daughter, turns fourteen years of age, Lizzie passes the Book of Hours on to her. Michael is always gone touring. Lizzie spends too much time alone. She has an affair with another man and conceives his child. Then the unspeakable happens. Lisette is groomed her entire life for theater and is cast in a leading role opposite her father, Michael, who she hardly knows. The storyline involves nudity and love scenes. I won't write a spoiler and give away the plot, but I will say that Sarah Stuart certainly knows how to weave a web of lies, deceit, heartbreak, forgiveness and healing. If you enjoy a steamy love scene, this book is for you. If you enjoy a plot that takes so many twists and turns that you sometimes aren't quite sure where you are, this is the book for you. Sarah did an excellent job of bringing all of the loose ends of the story full circle with an ending that leaves you sighing with relief, A well written story by an Indie author!
April 2, 2016
If there was one word to describe this book it would be a rollercoaster. The pace is fast and furious as it flicks from Lizzie; an heiress trying to find her place in the world, to Margaret; Henry the VIII sister; whose writings in the book of hours Lizzie is trying to decipher, and Michael; the man Lizzie has fallen in love with. The book is written in two parts and they couldn’t be more different in storyline. Part one is a sweet love story between two young people. Michael has ambitions as an actor and Lizzie wants to become a nanny. She has gone against her parent’s wishes to study management and take over the families hunting estate. After meeting Michael she puts all her efforts into furthering his career. Part two is about love too, but it’s rather twisted side and be prepared for a few shocks. Lisette; Lizzie’s daughter has now inherited the book of hours and is deciphering Margaret’s granddaughters writings. Lizzie and Lisette are descended from this queen and the thoughts in the book of hours have influenced the descendants. For Lisette this leads to rather reckless behaviour. There is a lot to like about this book and the characters are complex and not straight forward. It is a story with some unusual and original plot twists. The writer keeps the reader on their toes by a fast if at times confusing style. In part two especially as the mother’s and daughter’s names are so similar, but I understand why they had to be. One question mark remained for me; if a director cast a father and daughter as a pair of lovers in a musical that featured a nude scene too, would the audience not be gasping a collective breath of horror and disgust?
September 25, 2015
This is a book of many strands, which all weave in and out of each other to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. It is the story of the love affair between the heiress of a Scottish estate who is now living on the breadline in London, and an aspiring actor and singer from a poor background. As their relationship develops, so does the story of their progress towards shobiz success, with all the advantages and disadvantages that it brings. It later becomes the story of their children and the whole thing is suffused with he story of Clement (the write for the musicals that lift them to stardom) and his lost love Kathleen, and the story of ancestors from long ago.
The question asked throughout the book is, what is the cost of loving too well? This is the inspiration for Clement's musicals, but also the reason for his great sorrow. It is what draws Michael and Lizzie together, but is also what might drive them apart. It is the cause of their daughter Lisette's success, but also the cause which may bring them all down.
This question is also illustrated through the pages of the Book of Hours, an heirloom passed down the female heirs of an illegitimate royal line descended from Queen Margaret of Scotland. The decoding of this diary, with its exhortations on love and its accounts of the deeds of these ancestral women in love's name, underpins the events in the present day.
It is a well constructed tapestry that doesn't shy away from controversy and difficult questions. I notice that there is a sequel available, which I will read in due course.
The question asked throughout the book is, what is the cost of loving too well? This is the inspiration for Clement's musicals, but also the reason for his great sorrow. It is what draws Michael and Lizzie together, but is also what might drive them apart. It is the cause of their daughter Lisette's success, but also the cause which may bring them all down.
This question is also illustrated through the pages of the Book of Hours, an heirloom passed down the female heirs of an illegitimate royal line descended from Queen Margaret of Scotland. The decoding of this diary, with its exhortations on love and its accounts of the deeds of these ancestral women in love's name, underpins the events in the present day.
It is a well constructed tapestry that doesn't shy away from controversy and difficult questions. I notice that there is a sequel available, which I will read in due course.
June 11, 2015
I expect a story to have well-rounded characters, good imagery, and a level of detail which conveys an air of authenticity. In a word, I want - entertainment.
The dialogue should reflect the period in which the story exists, and if there are any outside influences, then they must fit into the tale and be unnoticed, because they belong. For example: car models, locations, or journeys are things that I expect to sound matter-of-fact.
I believe Sarah Stuart has a fair grounding in more than one area covered in this story. It would otherwise be difficult to cover such diverse topics as 16th century royal lifestyles, present day highland country estate life, and modern showbiz; complete with the trimmings - both positive and negative.
There is a premise from the outset that there is a personal journal which has been handed down through the centuries to the females of the family lineage. Okay, that’s a nice touch, but to carry off such a conspicuous vein throughout an entire novel is risky. Sarah not only does it well, she tailors the language of the journal to sound appropriate for the period it was written. She also enables the modern characters to reflect on the similarities of then and now.
If you enjoy your story relationships with a good dose of love, loss, deceit, sexual tension, and even mildly erotic scenes - treat yourself and indulge in this story.
The dialogue should reflect the period in which the story exists, and if there are any outside influences, then they must fit into the tale and be unnoticed, because they belong. For example: car models, locations, or journeys are things that I expect to sound matter-of-fact.
I believe Sarah Stuart has a fair grounding in more than one area covered in this story. It would otherwise be difficult to cover such diverse topics as 16th century royal lifestyles, present day highland country estate life, and modern showbiz; complete with the trimmings - both positive and negative.
There is a premise from the outset that there is a personal journal which has been handed down through the centuries to the females of the family lineage. Okay, that’s a nice touch, but to carry off such a conspicuous vein throughout an entire novel is risky. Sarah not only does it well, she tailors the language of the journal to sound appropriate for the period it was written. She also enables the modern characters to reflect on the similarities of then and now.
If you enjoy your story relationships with a good dose of love, loss, deceit, sexual tension, and even mildly erotic scenes - treat yourself and indulge in this story.
October 10, 2015
A very interesting book would be one way of describing Dangerous Liaisons. What started out as a simple romance between a privileged girl running away from her family life and a backstreet boy, quickly blossomed into an incandescent love that saw the main character thrown into the lead in a West End production.
Stuart does extremely well in tying this modern day story into a tale of an unbroken line of often illegitimate daughters that trace their lineage all the way back to Queen Margaret of Scotland. A five hundred year old book that details that lineage has been passed down from daughter to daughter since the 1500's, the latest recipient being our other main character Lizzie Cameron.
The second half of the book that follows the rise and rise, in the theatrical world, of Michael Marsh, tackles some heavy duty issues, in adultery and incest, but in my opinion the author handles these issues sensitively and well.
All in all, this was an enjoyable book and set itself up well for the sequel, Illicit Passion, which has now been released and is available. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance with an historical touch.
Stuart does extremely well in tying this modern day story into a tale of an unbroken line of often illegitimate daughters that trace their lineage all the way back to Queen Margaret of Scotland. A five hundred year old book that details that lineage has been passed down from daughter to daughter since the 1500's, the latest recipient being our other main character Lizzie Cameron.
The second half of the book that follows the rise and rise, in the theatrical world, of Michael Marsh, tackles some heavy duty issues, in adultery and incest, but in my opinion the author handles these issues sensitively and well.
All in all, this was an enjoyable book and set itself up well for the sequel, Illicit Passion, which has now been released and is available. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance with an historical touch.
December 16, 2016
Secrets and Betrayals
A touching love at first sight romance, this is a story of Lizzie, a girl who hides her wealthy background and royal heritage from Michael a wannabe actor from a low income background. The book has two timelines as Lizzie seeks to retrace the story of her royal lineage while we follow Michael’s rise to stardom and their relationship.
I don’t read books which are sexually explicit in nature, but I think that in this case they were well written and sensitive to the characters and overall feeling of the book. It is important to note that these areas take a necessary role in our understanding of the characters and their development.
The author also handles the tricky link between history and present day very well. This is a tough thing to pull off, especially as it requires a great depth of research to recount the detail of life. I could feel that this element of the book must be an interest to the author and thus it rubbed off on me as I read further.
The book feels like it’s in two halves. The latter is definitely darker but really life is like that too many. Generally one of those books I would be picking up when I have a free moment.
A touching love at first sight romance, this is a story of Lizzie, a girl who hides her wealthy background and royal heritage from Michael a wannabe actor from a low income background. The book has two timelines as Lizzie seeks to retrace the story of her royal lineage while we follow Michael’s rise to stardom and their relationship.
I don’t read books which are sexually explicit in nature, but I think that in this case they were well written and sensitive to the characters and overall feeling of the book. It is important to note that these areas take a necessary role in our understanding of the characters and their development.
The author also handles the tricky link between history and present day very well. This is a tough thing to pull off, especially as it requires a great depth of research to recount the detail of life. I could feel that this element of the book must be an interest to the author and thus it rubbed off on me as I read further.
The book feels like it’s in two halves. The latter is definitely darker but really life is like that too many. Generally one of those books I would be picking up when I have a free moment.
December 26, 2015
I loved the concept behind this book. While a contemporary romance the central females have a diary dating back to the early 1500s which has been passed from mother to daughter through the centuries. This diary not only urges them to search for true love but also claims they are of royal descent. It would seem although the specifics may change what people do in the name of love, lust and money remains constant through history.
The story starts with Lizzie leaving the family hotel and estate in the Scottish highlands to find independence in London. There she finds love and is thrown into the crazy world of stardom through Michael who dreams of becoming a famous actor. Great characterisation and pace with plenty of surprises. The sex is explicit rather than erotic but boundaries are pushed into some darker areas in the second half of the book.
Stuart has a distinctive style of writing and it took a few chapters for me to fully get to grips with it.
Original and thought provoking read.
The story starts with Lizzie leaving the family hotel and estate in the Scottish highlands to find independence in London. There she finds love and is thrown into the crazy world of stardom through Michael who dreams of becoming a famous actor. Great characterisation and pace with plenty of surprises. The sex is explicit rather than erotic but boundaries are pushed into some darker areas in the second half of the book.
Stuart has a distinctive style of writing and it took a few chapters for me to fully get to grips with it.
Original and thought provoking read.
January 8, 2015
Dangerous Liaisons is a beautiful, emotion and totally heart wrenching book. It plucks all of your heart strings in a way that makes you come back for more.
Not only do you get to go on a fabulous roller-coaster in the BOOK of HOURS (the book within the book) but you get swept up in Lizzie, Michael and Lisette's moving tales. From the very firs touch of their hands you know the sparks are strong and burning bright. Sometimes fate and people's choices don't always play along.
You will never be able to guess what the ending has in store for you. Just remember that you are in Sarah Stuart's safe hands.
At the end I realised this is not just a stirring tale of love and sometimes woe but forgiveness too.
Dangerous Liaisons is a book I have recommended to my friends and am now doing so to you.
Not only do you get to go on a fabulous roller-coaster in the BOOK of HOURS (the book within the book) but you get swept up in Lizzie, Michael and Lisette's moving tales. From the very firs touch of their hands you know the sparks are strong and burning bright. Sometimes fate and people's choices don't always play along.
You will never be able to guess what the ending has in store for you. Just remember that you are in Sarah Stuart's safe hands.
At the end I realised this is not just a stirring tale of love and sometimes woe but forgiveness too.
Dangerous Liaisons is a book I have recommended to my friends and am now doing so to you.
December 28, 2014
Right off, I knew that based on Ms. Stuarts style of writing, that I was going to enjoy reading 'Dangerous Liaisons'.
Skill aside, I was intrigued with the unique setting and refreshingly unusual characters. Being an American that has never traveled to Europe, it was all new to me. From the woods to the theater, the story is loaded with detailed information that makes the amount of work that went into its telling apparent.
I never give too much away in a review (I think the book blurb is all you need as far as the story line) but what I will address, is the quality. I would categorize "Dangerous Liaisons' as a romance, drama lit and a general fiction. Anyone considering a purchase should rest assured that you will get your money's worth.
I look forward to reading Sarah Stuart's other work!
Skill aside, I was intrigued with the unique setting and refreshingly unusual characters. Being an American that has never traveled to Europe, it was all new to me. From the woods to the theater, the story is loaded with detailed information that makes the amount of work that went into its telling apparent.
I never give too much away in a review (I think the book blurb is all you need as far as the story line) but what I will address, is the quality. I would categorize "Dangerous Liaisons' as a romance, drama lit and a general fiction. Anyone considering a purchase should rest assured that you will get your money's worth.
I look forward to reading Sarah Stuart's other work!
August 25, 2015
Divided into two clear parts, this novel begins as a seemingly innocent love story between Lizzie and Michael. Woven throughout are references to a Tudor diary belonging to Lizzie's ancestors, with Sarah Stuart doing a great job of weaving the 16th century diary entries into the modern day storyline. As the book progresses into its second half, it becomes much darker and more intense, something that I really didn't see coming! At times the story is quite disturbing, but this is very effective in creative a real page turner.
Sarah Stuart's prose is very clean, sharp and easy to read. She does a fantastic job of evoking the theatre world in which much of the book is set. There were certainly times when I questioned the behaviour of some of the characters, but I think this is a big part of what makes the book so engaging.
Sarah Stuart's prose is very clean, sharp and easy to read. She does a fantastic job of evoking the theatre world in which much of the book is set. There were certainly times when I questioned the behaviour of some of the characters, but I think this is a big part of what makes the book so engaging.
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