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Price of Privilege Trilogy #3
Price of Privilege
Where will she turn when the truth becomes more dangerous than the lie? Having finally discovered the truth of her birthright, Julia Elliston is determined to outwit Chance Macy at his own game. Holding a secret he’d kill to keep, however, is proving more difficult than she imagined. Just when Julia thinks she’s managed to untangle herself from Macy’s clutches, he changes tactics with a risky ploy. As the scandal of the century breaks loose, drawing rooms all over London whisper what so far newspapers have not dared to Macy’s lost bride is none other than Lord Pierson’s daughter—and one of the most controversial cases of marital law ever seen comes before Victorian courts. Though Julia knows Macy’s version of events is another masterful manipulation, public opinion is swaying in his favor. Caught in a web of deceit and lies, armed only with a fledgling faith, Julia must face her fiercest trial yet.
14 pages, Audiobook
First published December 18, 2014
45 people are currently reading
1141 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Dotta
4 books245 followersJessica Dotta has always been fascinated by the intricacies of society that existed in England from the Regency through the Edwardian era. She writes in a manner that blends past and modern fiction techniques. She lives in the Nashville area and works as a free lance media consultant and publicist. Her first novel Born of Persuasion releases in September of 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
August 19, 2019
I have a serious book hangover from finishing this trilogy. The prose is some of the best I've encountered. There are some exquisite spiritual arcs, too. If you enjoy gothic, or really strong character development, or a tone that blends Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, give this series a try. One thing that I really appreciated about the series is that books 2 and 3 don't waste time rehashing what happened in the previous books. Some sequels dump that information in in a way that is tedious and awkward, especially for those of us who remember. But Dotta will sprinkle gentle reminders throughout the book only if it's relevant to the current plot. It felt natural.
I'm really impressed that one story held my attention for the course of three (thick!) books. The addition of the character Jameson in this third novel was a very welcome one. He was delightful comic relief.
I don't want to spoil anything, but for those who have read these books--I just have to say--Isaac!!!
I'm really impressed that one story held my attention for the course of three (thick!) books. The addition of the character Jameson in this third novel was a very welcome one. He was delightful comic relief.
I don't want to spoil anything, but for those who have read these books--I just have to say--Isaac!!!
August 11, 2015
While I liked Isaac, Evelyn and Jamison, I never developed a fondness for Julia in the entire series. It's tough for me to enjoy a novel/series when the "heroine" is not likable. I know many have raved about the series, but I found it to be just ok.
January 6, 2024
***Edited to Add: I just now finished re-reading this for the fourth time. That's a record, I think! I may have read Christy four times also, but other than that... this is it. OK, and the Bible I've read more than that. Anyway. Everything in this review I wrote 8 years ago is still true. I've got the hugest book hangover right now and eyes red from crying....
Previous Review:
I just finished reading this entire series twice... in a row. I have *never* done that with any book before. Ever! I think it quite possibly has nudged out my long-time favorite The Last Sin-Eater by Francine Rivers as best Christian novel ever.
For those who haven't read it yet: If you want a quick read to serve as an escape from your day or as a brief entertainment, this is not the book/series for you. If, however, you're looking for a book with so many layers multiple readings are required to adequately sort and sift through them all, a book that enthralls you until the very end, leaving you feeling a bit bereft when you read the final sentence, a book that makes you laugh, cry (even ugly cry!), groan and smile... then you need to read this series. The Price of Privilege series is really one large novel split into three parts, so keep in mind you'll need to start at the beginning and work your way through to get a proper feeling for the story.
Once you have read it, I think you will agree with me that no matter your feelings about the characters and how they behaved or didn't behave in the story, it lingers with you and provokes you at the deepest level of your being. I've been pondering over why this is - very few books reach me at this level - and today I realized that it is because of the spiritual truth portrayed in this book so subtly you don't realize it until it's suddenly staring you in the face. Bringing to mind books like the Narnia series that clearly portray the gospel through story, I am struck that the characters in these novels are showing us the deepest truths of redemption and salvation and GOd's plan for history.
I'm not sure author Jessica Dotta actually wrote these characters intending them to specifically represent aspects of God's grand gospel story, but if you'll indulge me, here are my thoughts about the different characters and how they witness to us:
Julia is all of mankind, but each one of us specifically. She is rebellious and self-centered, fearful, doubtful, and focused only on achieving that which her heart desires.
Edward is what Julia desires above all things, believing that it will bring her true happiness, and thereby he represents the same for all of us - anything that we think will bring us happiness and completion apart from God. Note that Edward is not inherently evil - in fact he is very good for Julia in many ways, which is very often true of the things we desire for ourselves.
Mr. Macy is the devil incarnate. He represents evil of the most insiduous kind - at the outset he appears to be the fulfillment of all Julia's most basic needs and desires, but she doesn't truly grasp the full extent of his evil until almost the very end. Such was Satan to Eve in the garden.
Julia's father represents how God is viewed by those who do not know him: distant, disapproving, and angry. Keeping in mind that Julia was raised as an atheist, it is easy to see the parallel. She cannot accept that he actually does love her and desire to protect and preserve her because she cannot get past his anger and seeming rejection of her. Clearly he is not an actual representation of God because there is not much good in him, but I think he represents only what Julia believes to be true about God, and the perception she has to move past in order to accept God.
Several other characters - Jameson, Nancy, Churchill, etc. - serve as witnesses pointing the way to God, some more effectively than others. Jameson was truly a prophet, boldly speaking the words Julia needed most to hear.
That brings us to Isaac. Wonderful, amazing, beautifully crafted Isaac. I think anyone who reads this story will fall in love with Isaac and will be mentally castigating Julia for not seeing his worth earlier. But that is exactly how you are supposed to feel about Isaac because he is a type of Christ. He tenderly, gently woos Julia, steadfastly loving her and seeing in her who she will be instead of who she is. He consistently serves as a mediator between her and her father, attempting to reconcile the two. Even when Julia treats him meanly, he responds with love and forgiveness. And he never allows her to settle or to wallow in her grief, but he continually lifts her up and pulls her out of herself. As I read the books, I found myself wishing I knew Isaac in real life... then I realized - I DO know Isaac. OK, well I know Someone better because I know Jesus Christ. He has done for me what Isaac did for Julia.
And that, I think, is what I love most about this book/series, and why I highly recommend it to EVERYone. I could go on and on about how well it is written, how it simultaneously evokes memories of Bronte sisters, Jane Austen, Gothic and Victorian novels, how the words are woven beautifully into pictures and feelings. But really what I love most is the realization that I am Julia... and that my Isaac (Christ) loves me with an everlasting love that nothing I can say or do will diminish.
Previous Review:
I just finished reading this entire series twice... in a row. I have *never* done that with any book before. Ever! I think it quite possibly has nudged out my long-time favorite The Last Sin-Eater by Francine Rivers as best Christian novel ever.
For those who haven't read it yet: If you want a quick read to serve as an escape from your day or as a brief entertainment, this is not the book/series for you. If, however, you're looking for a book with so many layers multiple readings are required to adequately sort and sift through them all, a book that enthralls you until the very end, leaving you feeling a bit bereft when you read the final sentence, a book that makes you laugh, cry (even ugly cry!), groan and smile... then you need to read this series. The Price of Privilege series is really one large novel split into three parts, so keep in mind you'll need to start at the beginning and work your way through to get a proper feeling for the story.
Once you have read it, I think you will agree with me that no matter your feelings about the characters and how they behaved or didn't behave in the story, it lingers with you and provokes you at the deepest level of your being. I've been pondering over why this is - very few books reach me at this level - and today I realized that it is because of the spiritual truth portrayed in this book so subtly you don't realize it until it's suddenly staring you in the face. Bringing to mind books like the Narnia series that clearly portray the gospel through story, I am struck that the characters in these novels are showing us the deepest truths of redemption and salvation and GOd's plan for history.
I'm not sure author Jessica Dotta actually wrote these characters intending them to specifically represent aspects of God's grand gospel story, but if you'll indulge me, here are my thoughts about the different characters and how they witness to us:
Julia is all of mankind, but each one of us specifically. She is rebellious and self-centered, fearful, doubtful, and focused only on achieving that which her heart desires.
Edward is what Julia desires above all things, believing that it will bring her true happiness, and thereby he represents the same for all of us - anything that we think will bring us happiness and completion apart from God. Note that Edward is not inherently evil - in fact he is very good for Julia in many ways, which is very often true of the things we desire for ourselves.
Mr. Macy is the devil incarnate. He represents evil of the most insiduous kind - at the outset he appears to be the fulfillment of all Julia's most basic needs and desires, but she doesn't truly grasp the full extent of his evil until almost the very end. Such was Satan to Eve in the garden.
Julia's father represents how God is viewed by those who do not know him: distant, disapproving, and angry. Keeping in mind that Julia was raised as an atheist, it is easy to see the parallel. She cannot accept that he actually does love her and desire to protect and preserve her because she cannot get past his anger and seeming rejection of her. Clearly he is not an actual representation of God because there is not much good in him, but I think he represents only what Julia believes to be true about God, and the perception she has to move past in order to accept God.
Several other characters - Jameson, Nancy, Churchill, etc. - serve as witnesses pointing the way to God, some more effectively than others. Jameson was truly a prophet, boldly speaking the words Julia needed most to hear.
That brings us to Isaac. Wonderful, amazing, beautifully crafted Isaac. I think anyone who reads this story will fall in love with Isaac and will be mentally castigating Julia for not seeing his worth earlier. But that is exactly how you are supposed to feel about Isaac because he is a type of Christ. He tenderly, gently woos Julia, steadfastly loving her and seeing in her who she will be instead of who she is. He consistently serves as a mediator between her and her father, attempting to reconcile the two. Even when Julia treats him meanly, he responds with love and forgiveness. And he never allows her to settle or to wallow in her grief, but he continually lifts her up and pulls her out of herself. As I read the books, I found myself wishing I knew Isaac in real life... then I realized - I DO know Isaac. OK, well I know Someone better because I know Jesus Christ. He has done for me what Isaac did for Julia.
And that, I think, is what I love most about this book/series, and why I highly recommend it to EVERYone. I could go on and on about how well it is written, how it simultaneously evokes memories of Bronte sisters, Jane Austen, Gothic and Victorian novels, how the words are woven beautifully into pictures and feelings. But really what I love most is the realization that I am Julia... and that my Isaac (Christ) loves me with an everlasting love that nothing I can say or do will diminish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2016
Having managed to escape the clutches of Chance Macy and wed her childhood love, Edward Auburn, Julia hopes that she may finally have the simple country life that she always longed for. But her wedded bliss is cut short when her husband’s family and congregation shun him for his alliance with Julia, whose reputation and association with Macy has now spread far and wide. Soon Julia and Edward are forced back to London to seek the assistance of Julia’s father. In spite of their desire to keep out of the public eye, news of the Emerald Heiress’s marriage is quickly leaked to the papers—bringing Julia back into Macy’s sights. It won’t be long before the public discovers that Lord Pierson’s long-lost daughter is also the runaway bride of Chance Macy. Will Julia be able to convince the courts that she was merely a pawn in a much larger game? Or will her marriage to Edward be cut drastically short as she is thrust back into Macy’s arms?
When I picked up the first novel in Jessica Dotta’s Price of Privilege series, I had no idea that I was going to be sucked into such a dark and dramatic story. I will admit, I picked up Born of Persuasion because I was intrigued by the comparison of Dotta’s writing to that of Austen and the Bronte sisters. These claims are made so often, and on very few occasions have I actually come across a novel that really can lay claim to these assertions. The Price of Privilege series is one of the few exceptions. What starts out as an intriguing story about a girl with an unhappy childhood, who enjoyed holidays with her friends in the countryside, rapidly takes a much darker, sinister turn, with characters that readers will struggle to peg as truly good or evil. The claustrophobia of Julia’s life, as well as the seemingly doomed relationship between her and Edward, were definitely evocative of the Brontes, and reminded me of Wuthering Heights in particular. As for the Austen claims? The humour and social commentary injected by the character of Jameson in this book definitely took the edge of the darkness, and who can forget Mrs Windham’s theatrics?
I’ve said this in reviews for the other books, but it needs repeating—these novels truly encapsulate just how difficult it was to be a woman in this time period. After her mother dies, Julia has to rely on the men around her to protect her—a task particularly perilous, given that she doesn’t know if she can trust her guardian and biological father. Believing that she can no longer rely on her childhood friend, Edward, she even goes as far as engaging the help of a matchmaker, hoping that marriage will provide the security that she seeks. There were times when I felt frustrated at Julia, because she couldn’t fix the messes she found herself in, and I had to force myself to remember that there was literally nothing she could do. Even a woman of fortune such as Julia was still at the mercy of her father, husband or brothers. The court case that takes place in this novel has as much to do with deciding who Julia belongs to (Macy, Pierson or Edward) as it does charging anyone with a crime.
I have to admit that Edward isn’t my favourite romantic hero. Julia spends two books longing to be with him, but since we don’t get to spend a lot of time with him, Isaac (Lord Pierson’s protégé) ended up capturing my heart instead. That said, you don’t have to be particularly enamoured with Edward to care about the fate of his and Julia’s relationship. I appreciated that Jessica Dotta was able to make the reader care about characters other than the protagonist. Isaac, Jameson, Evelyn, the Dalrys and even Nancy all have their flaws and endearing qualities. Julia and Edward are perhaps the most flawed characters of all. In spite of my continual frustrations with Julia (her rashness and temper particularly aggravated me at times), I can’t deny that she was fantastically realistic. Maybe even I would have thrown plates around if I felt as helpless as she was.
The last quarter of this book really amped up the drama and the emotional impact of the story. I was reading this book while I waited for my five-month-old son to fall asleep, and I will admit that I sat with him asleep on my lap for a full half hour because I could not put this book down once I entered the final quarter! I don’t want to spoil anything, but Jessica Dotta definitely took a wrench to my poor heart. Julia’s situation is truly helpless, and various characters are forced into situations that they wouldn’t otherwise find themselves in, testing and proving the true strength of their love for our heroine. Julia is also tested, and forced to find solace in God when she realises this situation is completely and utterly out of her control—and that had she taken different steps in the past, she could have avoided this mess entirely. My heart truly hurt for her. You may require tissues for the ending of this book.
Looking at the covers for this series, you might be mistaken in thinking that these are light, sweet romances. Don’t get me wrong—there are some humorous moments, some sweet ones, and definitely some romance. But not every character will get a happy ending, and some will be broken in ways that will be incredibly hard to fix. Difficult issues are dealt with within the pages of Price of Privilege, and while important lessons are learned, I wouldn’t want to be in Julia’s shoes for all the pretty dresses in London. I’m grateful that times have changed, and that I will never feel as hopeless as Julia Elliston, even if her story is fascinatingly addictive.
Review title provided by Tyndale.
When I picked up the first novel in Jessica Dotta’s Price of Privilege series, I had no idea that I was going to be sucked into such a dark and dramatic story. I will admit, I picked up Born of Persuasion because I was intrigued by the comparison of Dotta’s writing to that of Austen and the Bronte sisters. These claims are made so often, and on very few occasions have I actually come across a novel that really can lay claim to these assertions. The Price of Privilege series is one of the few exceptions. What starts out as an intriguing story about a girl with an unhappy childhood, who enjoyed holidays with her friends in the countryside, rapidly takes a much darker, sinister turn, with characters that readers will struggle to peg as truly good or evil. The claustrophobia of Julia’s life, as well as the seemingly doomed relationship between her and Edward, were definitely evocative of the Brontes, and reminded me of Wuthering Heights in particular. As for the Austen claims? The humour and social commentary injected by the character of Jameson in this book definitely took the edge of the darkness, and who can forget Mrs Windham’s theatrics?
I’ve said this in reviews for the other books, but it needs repeating—these novels truly encapsulate just how difficult it was to be a woman in this time period. After her mother dies, Julia has to rely on the men around her to protect her—a task particularly perilous, given that she doesn’t know if she can trust her guardian and biological father. Believing that she can no longer rely on her childhood friend, Edward, she even goes as far as engaging the help of a matchmaker, hoping that marriage will provide the security that she seeks. There were times when I felt frustrated at Julia, because she couldn’t fix the messes she found herself in, and I had to force myself to remember that there was literally nothing she could do. Even a woman of fortune such as Julia was still at the mercy of her father, husband or brothers. The court case that takes place in this novel has as much to do with deciding who Julia belongs to (Macy, Pierson or Edward) as it does charging anyone with a crime.
I have to admit that Edward isn’t my favourite romantic hero. Julia spends two books longing to be with him, but since we don’t get to spend a lot of time with him, Isaac (Lord Pierson’s protégé) ended up capturing my heart instead. That said, you don’t have to be particularly enamoured with Edward to care about the fate of his and Julia’s relationship. I appreciated that Jessica Dotta was able to make the reader care about characters other than the protagonist. Isaac, Jameson, Evelyn, the Dalrys and even Nancy all have their flaws and endearing qualities. Julia and Edward are perhaps the most flawed characters of all. In spite of my continual frustrations with Julia (her rashness and temper particularly aggravated me at times), I can’t deny that she was fantastically realistic. Maybe even I would have thrown plates around if I felt as helpless as she was.
The last quarter of this book really amped up the drama and the emotional impact of the story. I was reading this book while I waited for my five-month-old son to fall asleep, and I will admit that I sat with him asleep on my lap for a full half hour because I could not put this book down once I entered the final quarter! I don’t want to spoil anything, but Jessica Dotta definitely took a wrench to my poor heart. Julia’s situation is truly helpless, and various characters are forced into situations that they wouldn’t otherwise find themselves in, testing and proving the true strength of their love for our heroine. Julia is also tested, and forced to find solace in God when she realises this situation is completely and utterly out of her control—and that had she taken different steps in the past, she could have avoided this mess entirely. My heart truly hurt for her. You may require tissues for the ending of this book.
Looking at the covers for this series, you might be mistaken in thinking that these are light, sweet romances. Don’t get me wrong—there are some humorous moments, some sweet ones, and definitely some romance. But not every character will get a happy ending, and some will be broken in ways that will be incredibly hard to fix. Difficult issues are dealt with within the pages of Price of Privilege, and while important lessons are learned, I wouldn’t want to be in Julia’s shoes for all the pretty dresses in London. I’m grateful that times have changed, and that I will never feel as hopeless as Julia Elliston, even if her story is fascinatingly addictive.
Review title provided by Tyndale.
January 31, 2018
Exceptional conclusion to historical fiction which is shattering the metrics of CBA romance. An unreliable narrator, a Dickensian propensity for twisting, winding interwoven storylines, a winning and wonderful narration, heartbreak and drama.
Dotta has a winning way of cunningly revisiting the Victorian Gothic and lovers of Bleak House and Jane Eyre (whether coming from a background of faith or not ) will sink into this highly literary endeavour. The sheer verisimilitude, pitch-perfect dialect and tone and well-coloured tapestry of believable, dimensional characters puts Dotta at the top of the historical game. To add, she plays with convention---especially in the CBA sphere. Her heroine is not necessarily the protagonist, not all ends are tied up neatly, there are enough sly euphemisms to sink a ship and the humour is as steep as the pathos. The third installment is told with the same beguiling nod to the past with an upstairs-downstairs feel, portentous chapter endings and a brave conclusion that will shatter readers expectations. Even though Dotta writes in the past, I like to think this is the CBA fiction future. Smart, winning and without restriction, Dotta is a genius and master of plot and character.
Finally, readers will be surprised to realize that the last book is mostly comprised of a cloistered, actionless setting completely reliant on dialogue to inform circumstance and movement. Not unlike a tv bottle episode --- or a cozy mystery a la Agatha Christie, this was a nice, unique touch and suited the high class society in which Julia has become a pawn. Part Forsyte Saga, part mystery, all wonderment, political intrigue and topped with a dollop of romance, the Anglophile will adore this series. This is groundbreaking stuff. She doesn't talk down to the reader, she expects you to rise to her level. You will want to read and re-read and read again to make sure that you catch all the deft threads she has sewn to tie up this ornate and opiate yarn.
Dotta has a winning way of cunningly revisiting the Victorian Gothic and lovers of Bleak House and Jane Eyre (whether coming from a background of faith or not ) will sink into this highly literary endeavour. The sheer verisimilitude, pitch-perfect dialect and tone and well-coloured tapestry of believable, dimensional characters puts Dotta at the top of the historical game. To add, she plays with convention---especially in the CBA sphere. Her heroine is not necessarily the protagonist, not all ends are tied up neatly, there are enough sly euphemisms to sink a ship and the humour is as steep as the pathos. The third installment is told with the same beguiling nod to the past with an upstairs-downstairs feel, portentous chapter endings and a brave conclusion that will shatter readers expectations. Even though Dotta writes in the past, I like to think this is the CBA fiction future. Smart, winning and without restriction, Dotta is a genius and master of plot and character.
Finally, readers will be surprised to realize that the last book is mostly comprised of a cloistered, actionless setting completely reliant on dialogue to inform circumstance and movement. Not unlike a tv bottle episode --- or a cozy mystery a la Agatha Christie, this was a nice, unique touch and suited the high class society in which Julia has become a pawn. Part Forsyte Saga, part mystery, all wonderment, political intrigue and topped with a dollop of romance, the Anglophile will adore this series. This is groundbreaking stuff. She doesn't talk down to the reader, she expects you to rise to her level. You will want to read and re-read and read again to make sure that you catch all the deft threads she has sewn to tie up this ornate and opiate yarn.
January 30, 2015
Oh my goodness! I am so sick and tired of books where I really like every other character besides the main character. Edward, Jamison, and Isaac are fantastic lovable characters. I even liked Macy better than Juls because at least he was smart and cunning and successful at what he did. Juls was such a weak character! I thought I would pull my eyelashes out if she said she just couldn't communicate her words one more time! What a cheap way out. She did not deserve the love and loyalty given to her by Edward and Isaac. She may have been a broken bird but what else of her acts truly inspired such wonderful love and loyalty? Everyone of her actions was selfish and stupid, despite the fact that she would continuously say her love for others was her motivation from putting them in harms way. So then she wouldn't communicate with anyone who loved her & would run off making a completely idiotic decision. I kept waiting and yearning for her to redeem herself with some act of brilliance or defiance or finding her voice or something…What a joke. It's a miracle I even finished this trilogy, what a waste! I have to say I am shocked that female authors continue to produce stories with such weak female protagonists. I understand the social morays of the time would dictate certain behaviors from a young woman, however women like Adelia could certainly prove otherwise so there's no reason why the main character could not follow suit.
January 9, 2024
This was definitely a one-of-a-kind series. I’ve never quite read anything like it.
The first book had the most gothic feel, and was probably my favorite until the ending of book 3. While a good part of the series was wrapped around Macie’s character, there was another large part where Julia was a pawn and victim of her circumstances and just living her life.
As for this particular book, I wasn’t very interested in it until the 2/3 point. Personally, I don’t like Edward very much and wasn’t especially interested in their hardships as newlyweds (not to mention the fact Julia was still potentially married to two men, which is mildly perturbing).
The ending was amazing. While I anticipated one of the events happening, it was unexpected in exactly how it played out, and really was so perfect.
Isaac by far was my favorite character of the entire series. While Edward was a vicar, it was Isaac who really acted like a Christian. Next to him, I really liked a large portion of the servants. My least favorite characters were ironically some of the main characters. I even liked Macie above Julia and Edward, because he was complex.
The spiritual message is not as easily seen in the character’s exact lives and representation. It was only after talking with a friend I could see the author’s brilliance in portraying a story of redemption through the overarching story as a whole, with each character representing a different character in Christian life. Isaac would be a Christ-type, Julia a sinner, Macie as Satan, and Edward the flesh. It really is more of a literary portrayal than specific.
There were some heated scenes, accusations of unfaithfulness, the whole plot of one character potentially being married to two men at once (though they never accepted the first as legal or consummated, it was technically under God), and a few evil plots that ultra conservative readers may wish to avoid.
All in all, I did enjoy the series as a different style of book than I usually read.
The first book had the most gothic feel, and was probably my favorite until the ending of book 3. While a good part of the series was wrapped around Macie’s character, there was another large part where Julia was a pawn and victim of her circumstances and just living her life.
As for this particular book, I wasn’t very interested in it until the 2/3 point. Personally, I don’t like Edward very much and wasn’t especially interested in their hardships as newlyweds (not to mention the fact Julia was still potentially married to two men, which is mildly perturbing).
The ending was amazing. While I anticipated one of the events happening, it was unexpected in exactly how it played out, and really was so perfect.
Isaac by far was my favorite character of the entire series. While Edward was a vicar, it was Isaac who really acted like a Christian. Next to him, I really liked a large portion of the servants. My least favorite characters were ironically some of the main characters. I even liked Macie above Julia and Edward, because he was complex.
The spiritual message is not as easily seen in the character’s exact lives and representation. It was only after talking with a friend I could see the author’s brilliance in portraying a story of redemption through the overarching story as a whole, with each character representing a different character in Christian life. Isaac would be a Christ-type, Julia a sinner, Macie as Satan, and Edward the flesh. It really is more of a literary portrayal than specific.
There were some heated scenes, accusations of unfaithfulness, the whole plot of one character potentially being married to two men at once (though they never accepted the first as legal or consummated, it was technically under God), and a few evil plots that ultra conservative readers may wish to avoid.
All in all, I did enjoy the series as a different style of book than I usually read.
June 8, 2015
It's a rare book that pulls me out of reality and immerses me in a story world so much that I'll willingly park my heinie on a chair and allow the world to go by. It's an even rarer author who writes so beautifully that my eyes get all watery and I want to throw away my laptop because I know I'll never be able to pen such haunting prose. Price of Privilege by Jessica Dotta is just such a book.
Here is a taste of some of the word pictures taken from the story . . .
Thus we were caught up in our daily affairs like dogs running at full speed, when reality finally pulled hard on our leashes, catching us by surprise.
I felt as though I were walking over a slippery beam as I crossed the chamber on Isaac's arm.
Tormented eyes searched mine. It seemed as if, on the other side of an unreachable shore, Isaac was silently screaming and pleading for help behind his polished mask. Then his eyes went vacant as if something vital had died inside him.
This book took guts to write. It's not an easy thing to kill off a beloved character (don't worry, no spoiler as to whom), nor is it a piece of cake to expose layer after layer of hurt caused most often by verbal but sometimes physical abuse. Make no mistake, this is not a light read. That being said, this trilogy is on my keeper shelf because the story and the characters demand they will not be sent away.
If you love historical fiction and really want to get a feel for Victorian England, from the pulpy street view to the upper echelons of society, then run -- don't dawdle -- to the nearest bookstore and snatch yourself up a copy.
Here is a taste of some of the word pictures taken from the story . . .
Thus we were caught up in our daily affairs like dogs running at full speed, when reality finally pulled hard on our leashes, catching us by surprise.
I felt as though I were walking over a slippery beam as I crossed the chamber on Isaac's arm.
Tormented eyes searched mine. It seemed as if, on the other side of an unreachable shore, Isaac was silently screaming and pleading for help behind his polished mask. Then his eyes went vacant as if something vital had died inside him.
This book took guts to write. It's not an easy thing to kill off a beloved character (don't worry, no spoiler as to whom), nor is it a piece of cake to expose layer after layer of hurt caused most often by verbal but sometimes physical abuse. Make no mistake, this is not a light read. That being said, this trilogy is on my keeper shelf because the story and the characters demand they will not be sent away.
If you love historical fiction and really want to get a feel for Victorian England, from the pulpy street view to the upper echelons of society, then run -- don't dawdle -- to the nearest bookstore and snatch yourself up a copy.
March 24, 2016
Take this series off your "to read" list now. Spare yourself. Not only did this series get worse as it went on so did the characters (except Isaac). I started to dislike most of the characters more and more and couldn't believe I was still reading about them.
The ending?! So sad.
This story was too drawn out for me. I feel as though I wasted my time reading. I did like the first book but it's not worth reading if you have to read 2 & 3 to know what happens. It's a shame.
The ending?! So sad.
This story was too drawn out for me. I feel as though I wasted my time reading. I did like the first book but it's not worth reading if you have to read 2 & 3 to know what happens. It's a shame.
December 29, 2014
I have to start off by saying...I don't know where to begin with this review. This book took me every where and I don't think all of it will ever truly sink in. I think I need to go into mourning after finishing this book. I hated to see it end. This book emotionally gutted me...especially the ending...Oh, that ending. I will not say more on it, just good heavens, I didn't see it coming! Y'all need to read it!!!!
It's been a full 24 hours since I finished this book. I still haven't moved past it. Goodness, this story had everything and kept me guessing through it all. I could not point out and say, "such and such is going to happen..." then watch it happen...nope, quite the opposite. I was left dumbfounded and questioning how is anything going to work out? It was the best puzzle I have ever tried to figure out.
As you can probably tell, this book was spectacular. The story twisted and turned and danced its way through the book. The characters have shown growth and change...well, all but one, I will get to that in a little bit. Julia, Edward, and Issac have been flushed out. You are at the point that you care for them and are rooting for them. You can understand where they are and why they think the way they do.
I was a little hesitant with Julia's thoughts in the previous book, but it plays into how this series works. She was still in transition and what she thought wasn't fully where it needed to be, since she was still learning. Here, she has come into her own. She understands more and now has the ability to fight.
Edward, I was leery of him in the first book with his rough and forceful way of speaking to people, but then he was humbled in the second book, and finally, we get to know who he really is and why Julia has cared for him so long in this book.
And Issac...ok, he hasn't changed, he is just as fabulous as he has always has been. Plus, we get to see his sweet family again. Not as much, but enough to love the support they offer to Julia. Issac, Lord Dalry is best. That is all there is to it.
The other character that hasn't changed is Forrester. He is a worm. I think I despise him as much as I despised Umbridge in Harry Potter. Good Grief! Nothing positive ever came out of his mouth and I kind of liked him less them Macy. And that is saying something.
Macy as a character isn't around much in this book, which is amazing, considering the force of power he shows. It is truly impressive the range this man has over most of London society. And he knows how the use the press to his advantage. It is pretty spectacular in how he handles things, in his dark and sinister way.
I enjoyed this series to no end. Each book added on more and more info to flush out the characters and it brought you in and experience everything that Julia did. I loved the darker feel of this book. It had the same feeling as the classic Gothic romances like Jane Eyre, but the wonderful heroes of Jane Austen.
If you haven't read this series yet, you need to.
Thank you to the Tyndale Blogger Network, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
It's been a full 24 hours since I finished this book. I still haven't moved past it. Goodness, this story had everything and kept me guessing through it all. I could not point out and say, "such and such is going to happen..." then watch it happen...nope, quite the opposite. I was left dumbfounded and questioning how is anything going to work out? It was the best puzzle I have ever tried to figure out.
As you can probably tell, this book was spectacular. The story twisted and turned and danced its way through the book. The characters have shown growth and change...well, all but one, I will get to that in a little bit. Julia, Edward, and Issac have been flushed out. You are at the point that you care for them and are rooting for them. You can understand where they are and why they think the way they do.
I was a little hesitant with Julia's thoughts in the previous book, but it plays into how this series works. She was still in transition and what she thought wasn't fully where it needed to be, since she was still learning. Here, she has come into her own. She understands more and now has the ability to fight.
Edward, I was leery of him in the first book with his rough and forceful way of speaking to people, but then he was humbled in the second book, and finally, we get to know who he really is and why Julia has cared for him so long in this book.
And Issac...ok, he hasn't changed, he is just as fabulous as he has always has been. Plus, we get to see his sweet family again. Not as much, but enough to love the support they offer to Julia. Issac, Lord Dalry is best. That is all there is to it.
The other character that hasn't changed is Forrester. He is a worm. I think I despise him as much as I despised Umbridge in Harry Potter. Good Grief! Nothing positive ever came out of his mouth and I kind of liked him less them Macy. And that is saying something.
Macy as a character isn't around much in this book, which is amazing, considering the force of power he shows. It is truly impressive the range this man has over most of London society. And he knows how the use the press to his advantage. It is pretty spectacular in how he handles things, in his dark and sinister way.
I enjoyed this series to no end. Each book added on more and more info to flush out the characters and it brought you in and experience everything that Julia did. I loved the darker feel of this book. It had the same feeling as the classic Gothic romances like Jane Eyre, but the wonderful heroes of Jane Austen.
If you haven't read this series yet, you need to.
Thank you to the Tyndale Blogger Network, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
May 21, 2015
Long-winded and dull. With the most irritatingly passive character ever.
December 27, 2018
Aaaargh I hated the end. Too many unanswered questions. Why, in book 1, does Mr Macy sleep in a bare white room on a cot? Why was Isaac there at her birth?
Until the very end, I yearned for Mr Macy ~ he was one of the smoothest, most handsome villains ever, and it took a lot to convince me that he didn’t love our protagonist and that he couldn’t have been redeemed. And the final blow was that it was Isaac who I fell in love with.
4 stars for helping me to become so enraptured with the characters and their story but what a picture of life, our losses define who we are, sadly mirroring my own experience, but, like our protagonist, it was through this that I too, forged my relationship with the Lord.
There are a lot of interesting underlying themes we could think on, such as the deceptive beauty of Lucifer, the inability to quench earthly desire, the emptiness of possessions.
Until the very end, I yearned for Mr Macy ~ he was one of the smoothest, most handsome villains ever, and it took a lot to convince me that he didn’t love our protagonist and that he couldn’t have been redeemed. And the final blow was that it was Isaac who I fell in love with.
4 stars for helping me to become so enraptured with the characters and their story but what a picture of life, our losses define who we are, sadly mirroring my own experience, but, like our protagonist, it was through this that I too, forged my relationship with the Lord.
There are a lot of interesting underlying themes we could think on, such as the deceptive beauty of Lucifer, the inability to quench earthly desire, the emptiness of possessions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
My 2015 review:
Price of Privilege is engaging, thrilling, and endlessly intriguing. I had to fight the urge to devour this book in one sitting because I wanted to make it last a little longer. I was desperate to find out what was going to happen next because I could never figure it out. I mean, there were twists in nearly every chapter, so it’s impossible to put it down.
Jessica Dotta is a brilliant story teller. She has a magnificent writing talent that has blown me away. This book explores the consequences of decisions. How they affect so many lives and reach further than we can imagine when making those decisions.
When everything is stripped from you, what is left of who you are? This is the question Jessica Dotta grapples with throughout her remarkable series, and what unfolds before your eyes is the most incredible story.
Let’s talk characters:
Jameson is the best. I absolutely loved his character. His playful banter with Julia brightened the pages with humor in an otherwise dark story. In his attempts to make light of serious situations, I would find myself laughing along with Julia as she learned to open herself up to love and trust the people who had her best interests at heart.
Speaking of trust, that is one of the most interesting aspects of this series. You are perpetually anxious because you don’t know which characters to believe. What are their motives? Are they going to be a traitor? WHO CAN I TRUST?
Edward, oh how I love him. He is fierce and passionate.
And Isaac. I find his character fascinating. He is loyal to a fault and pure in heart. It was so hard to figure him out but what a complex character! I love him, too.
“The way we treat people determines what they become.” (332)
And the ending? What a surprise. I felt as if my heart had been ripped out of my chest, thrown on the ground, and stomped all over. I sat in shocked pain and disbelief when I finished. I never saw it coming, but it was fantastic.
I urge you to read this book, but please start at the beginning (otherwise so many secrets will be spoiled!).
*Thank you to the publisher, who provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
First read: Dec2014/Jan2015
Second read: July 2016
Third read: October 2020
Fourth read: November 2025
Price of Privilege is engaging, thrilling, and endlessly intriguing. I had to fight the urge to devour this book in one sitting because I wanted to make it last a little longer. I was desperate to find out what was going to happen next because I could never figure it out. I mean, there were twists in nearly every chapter, so it’s impossible to put it down.
Jessica Dotta is a brilliant story teller. She has a magnificent writing talent that has blown me away. This book explores the consequences of decisions. How they affect so many lives and reach further than we can imagine when making those decisions.
When everything is stripped from you, what is left of who you are? This is the question Jessica Dotta grapples with throughout her remarkable series, and what unfolds before your eyes is the most incredible story.
Let’s talk characters:
Jameson is the best. I absolutely loved his character. His playful banter with Julia brightened the pages with humor in an otherwise dark story. In his attempts to make light of serious situations, I would find myself laughing along with Julia as she learned to open herself up to love and trust the people who had her best interests at heart.
Speaking of trust, that is one of the most interesting aspects of this series. You are perpetually anxious because you don’t know which characters to believe. What are their motives? Are they going to be a traitor? WHO CAN I TRUST?
Edward, oh how I love him. He is fierce and passionate.
And Isaac. I find his character fascinating. He is loyal to a fault and pure in heart. It was so hard to figure him out but what a complex character! I love him, too.
“The way we treat people determines what they become.” (332)
And the ending? What a surprise. I felt as if my heart had been ripped out of my chest, thrown on the ground, and stomped all over. I sat in shocked pain and disbelief when I finished. I never saw it coming, but it was fantastic.
I urge you to read this book, but please start at the beginning (otherwise so many secrets will be spoiled!).
*Thank you to the publisher, who provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
First read: Dec2014/Jan2015
Second read: July 2016
Third read: October 2020
Fourth read: November 2025
May 13, 2021
Before I started this book, I was already imagining the gushing review I would eventually write. I mean, this series has been in a word - EPIC. At the time of publication, I don't recall there being anything like it in Christian fiction. Since then, I'm sure that has changed since Regency books have exploded in their availability...I just haven't caught up to reading them.
I listened to this as an audiobook rather than reading it like I did the first two. While I absolutely adored hearing this narrator (hello, British accent) and the lovely prose that flowed from Dotta's pen, I struggled to get into this story. The beginning was painfully slow. I get it - Julia was spending her first days as a newlywed, thinking that things were finally about to settle down. But still... I stopped listening after the first 4 or 5 chapters because I just could not connect with anything.
However, after a few months of seeing it eyeball me as being unfinished, I started it all over again. This second time, I challenged myself to really savor the writing (Dotta's skill with language is exceptional). By the middle, I was fully engrossed in the story and the ending was something I never saw coming by a mile.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely 100%, although I think if I had read it instead of listened to it, I would have enjoyed it even more. That, plus having to start over from the very beginning to reattempt it, is the only reason for docking it down one star. The series as a whole is one of the best ever written, and fans of Regency fiction would be remiss if they did not add it to their shelves.
I listened to this as an audiobook rather than reading it like I did the first two. While I absolutely adored hearing this narrator (hello, British accent) and the lovely prose that flowed from Dotta's pen, I struggled to get into this story. The beginning was painfully slow. I get it - Julia was spending her first days as a newlywed, thinking that things were finally about to settle down. But still... I stopped listening after the first 4 or 5 chapters because I just could not connect with anything.
However, after a few months of seeing it eyeball me as being unfinished, I started it all over again. This second time, I challenged myself to really savor the writing (Dotta's skill with language is exceptional). By the middle, I was fully engrossed in the story and the ending was something I never saw coming by a mile.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely 100%, although I think if I had read it instead of listened to it, I would have enjoyed it even more. That, plus having to start over from the very beginning to reattempt it, is the only reason for docking it down one star. The series as a whole is one of the best ever written, and fans of Regency fiction would be remiss if they did not add it to their shelves.
September 25, 2019
Brilliant! Absolutely loved it. Having a book hangover here. When two of my favorite authors recommended this series, I jumped in with both feet and got all three books in the series. At first, I wasn't keen on the fact that one story took three long books to tell. I am used to trilogies being at the same time stand-alone, and yet continuing the story focusing on another person, but I ended up loving this rich, multi-layered story. The story came full circle, and as all the best stories have, there are lessons on good & evil, lessons on love, friendship, what's truly important, not to judge unless you've walked a mile in their shoes, decisions on whether to embrace faith or not, disappointing relationships, forgiveness, and supreme sacrifice. Each book is over 400 pages and the author did an AMAZING job keeping me guessing. I honestly had no idea how the story would end. Those, my friends, are the best kind of stories!
January 4, 2015
I have been looking forward to the conclusion of the Price of Privilege Trilogy for some time. The series has an extremely unique feel to it. The whole series is not a light read. It can be very dark and at times quite depressing. I’m glad that the author added a character with enough humor that released at least some of the depression from entirely overtaking the plot of The Price of Privilege. I really enjoyed this series in that I never knew what was going to happen next, or what the protagonist was going to think or do next. If you are a person who likes Gothic novels, then this series will certainly appeal to you.
Julia is quite one of the most complex characters I’ve ever come across. Or rather, I should say, the situations thrust upon her ravel themselves into complexities almost too tangled up to ever hope of figuring out. Indeed, even at the end not everything was solved. However, the biggest mysteries were revealed. I have to say that I was quite enthralled with Chance Macy at the beginning of this series. He is the villain in the story. I was hoping that this series would be a bit more like Beauty and the Beast. And…perhaps it is. I won’t give any spoilers, so you will have to read it for yourself to see.
I really grew to like Edward in this book. He was in a part of the first book in the trilogy, and almost never in the second one, so I didn’t really get to know him. However, he became perhaps my favorite character in this book. He revealed himself to be a true man of God, though his anger did get the best of him at times. He loved Julia the way that God loved her. Because of Edward’s example, Julia was able to draw nigh unto God through the greatest trials of her life. And believe me when I say she continued to face trial after trial! This series is the most convoluted one I’ve ever read. Yet it was truly fascinating and kept me wondering from beginning to end.
In some ways, the author went deeper spiritually than I ever see most authors go. Yet in some ways she didn’t. Julia did learn to trust in God and give everything over to Him, yet there was never really a time when she accepted Jesus as her own personal Savior. I’m not sure exactly what the author was trying to get across. However, at the beginning of this whole series, Julia was a staunch atheist. It was captivating to see Julia come to realization after realization about God and his grace and his love.
I will say that this series does end with a tragedy I was not expecting at all. The end brought tears to my eyes. However, not everything was lost in the end. The conclusion to this trilogy is like nothing I had expected. I am quite impressed with Jessica Dotta after having read her trilogy. It must have taken enormous planning in order to have to begin schemes and intrigues in the first novel, carry them through the second, and wrap them up (mostly) in the third. I would definitely want to read anything else she ever published.
I give Price of Privilege 4 out of 5 stars.
**I received a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone**
Julia is quite one of the most complex characters I’ve ever come across. Or rather, I should say, the situations thrust upon her ravel themselves into complexities almost too tangled up to ever hope of figuring out. Indeed, even at the end not everything was solved. However, the biggest mysteries were revealed. I have to say that I was quite enthralled with Chance Macy at the beginning of this series. He is the villain in the story. I was hoping that this series would be a bit more like Beauty and the Beast. And…perhaps it is. I won’t give any spoilers, so you will have to read it for yourself to see.
I really grew to like Edward in this book. He was in a part of the first book in the trilogy, and almost never in the second one, so I didn’t really get to know him. However, he became perhaps my favorite character in this book. He revealed himself to be a true man of God, though his anger did get the best of him at times. He loved Julia the way that God loved her. Because of Edward’s example, Julia was able to draw nigh unto God through the greatest trials of her life. And believe me when I say she continued to face trial after trial! This series is the most convoluted one I’ve ever read. Yet it was truly fascinating and kept me wondering from beginning to end.
In some ways, the author went deeper spiritually than I ever see most authors go. Yet in some ways she didn’t. Julia did learn to trust in God and give everything over to Him, yet there was never really a time when she accepted Jesus as her own personal Savior. I’m not sure exactly what the author was trying to get across. However, at the beginning of this whole series, Julia was a staunch atheist. It was captivating to see Julia come to realization after realization about God and his grace and his love.
I will say that this series does end with a tragedy I was not expecting at all. The end brought tears to my eyes. However, not everything was lost in the end. The conclusion to this trilogy is like nothing I had expected. I am quite impressed with Jessica Dotta after having read her trilogy. It must have taken enormous planning in order to have to begin schemes and intrigues in the first novel, carry them through the second, and wrap them up (mostly) in the third. I would definitely want to read anything else she ever published.
I give Price of Privilege 4 out of 5 stars.
**I received a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone**
July 28, 2015
Jessica Dotta’s first two novels set the bar high for this series, with mysterious characters, vivid settings, and plots full of unexpected twists and turns. This final installment wraps up the series in a breathtaking and unexpected conclusion worthy of its predecessors. Taken together,
Born of Persuasion
,
Mark of Distinction
, and Price of Privilege tell a fascinating and intricately woven literary tale.
Having lived in Julia’s head for three books now, I feel like I’ve come to know her well – the good, the bad, and the ugly. I may not agree with many of her actions or even the rationale for her decisions, but both she and her mistakes felt real to me. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her and watching her character develop from a passive teenage girl being manipulated into making poor choices, to a more mature woman ready to face the consequences of her actions, embrace God’s grace, and pick up the pieces of her life.
And the supporting cast? So good! Hats off to Edward, Mr. Macy, Jameson, Nancy, Forrester, Lord Pierson, and more, each of whom was drawn in unique and vivid detail. But especially to Lord Isaac Dalry, who was particularly amazing in this book. You must read it to see why. But first read books 1 and 2 if you haven’t read them yet, because this series must be read in order.
Without talking specifics, let me just say that the conclusion packs some real emotional punch. And yes, I cried. But it’s worth the tears for the beautiful, complex story of unmerited love, devotion, and grace. I didn’t see the ending coming, but, looking back on the series as a whole, I can see how the groundwork was laid in bits and pieces from the very beginning. And the artistry of it amazes me.
Specific to the Audiobook:
If you’ve read my earlier reviews from this series, then you already know how much I’ve enjoyed the audio narrations by Amanda McKnight. The character voices, emotional resonance, and subtle details of her performances have been spot on, and this title is no exception. If you enjoy audiobooks or want to give them a try, then the audio editions from this series are not to be missed.
Thank you to Oasis Audio for providing an electronic copy of this audiobook for review purposes.
This review was first shared at karencollier.com.
Having lived in Julia’s head for three books now, I feel like I’ve come to know her well – the good, the bad, and the ugly. I may not agree with many of her actions or even the rationale for her decisions, but both she and her mistakes felt real to me. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her and watching her character develop from a passive teenage girl being manipulated into making poor choices, to a more mature woman ready to face the consequences of her actions, embrace God’s grace, and pick up the pieces of her life.
And the supporting cast? So good! Hats off to Edward, Mr. Macy, Jameson, Nancy, Forrester, Lord Pierson, and more, each of whom was drawn in unique and vivid detail. But especially to Lord Isaac Dalry, who was particularly amazing in this book. You must read it to see why. But first read books 1 and 2 if you haven’t read them yet, because this series must be read in order.
Without talking specifics, let me just say that the conclusion packs some real emotional punch. And yes, I cried. But it’s worth the tears for the beautiful, complex story of unmerited love, devotion, and grace. I didn’t see the ending coming, but, looking back on the series as a whole, I can see how the groundwork was laid in bits and pieces from the very beginning. And the artistry of it amazes me.
Specific to the Audiobook:
If you’ve read my earlier reviews from this series, then you already know how much I’ve enjoyed the audio narrations by Amanda McKnight. The character voices, emotional resonance, and subtle details of her performances have been spot on, and this title is no exception. If you enjoy audiobooks or want to give them a try, then the audio editions from this series are not to be missed.
Thank you to Oasis Audio for providing an electronic copy of this audiobook for review purposes.
This review was first shared at karencollier.com.
March 29, 2015
This book left me emotionally exhausted. The characters, good & bad, become apart of you throughout the long journey of this book. My review will not be long because the only review that can do this book justice is a individual personal review from each person that is interested in this author.
Isaac was hands down my favorite. Like I seriously wanted to marry him myself!
Prepare to hold your breath in suspense throughout every chapter. You will simultaneously love, cherish, & regret reading this book. Very few books can leave you so wanting even after it has finished. I will be emotionally recovering from this book for a while.
Isaac was hands down my favorite. Like I seriously wanted to marry him myself!
Prepare to hold your breath in suspense throughout every chapter. You will simultaneously love, cherish, & regret reading this book. Very few books can leave you so wanting even after it has finished. I will be emotionally recovering from this book for a while.
July 28, 2021
Wow.
I'm angry. I'm sad. I'm shocked. I'm...strangely satisfied with the conclusion.
This series has been a ride.
It only took me 3 books to finally love both Edward and Julia. What character development!
I think I need a month to recover from Julia's tale. I also feel the need to reread the series. There was so much foreshadowing that I missed. So many little details I need to revisit. Jameson was such a strong character. I loved him. And Isaac. Oh Isaac.
I'm left with so many questions. Here's the only one I'll ask: Jessica Dotta, why haven't you written any more novels?
I'm angry. I'm sad. I'm shocked. I'm...strangely satisfied with the conclusion.
This series has been a ride.
It only took me 3 books to finally love both Edward and Julia. What character development!
I think I need a month to recover from Julia's tale. I also feel the need to reread the series. There was so much foreshadowing that I missed. So many little details I need to revisit. Jameson was such a strong character. I loved him. And Isaac. Oh Isaac.
I'm left with so many questions. Here's the only one I'll ask: Jessica Dotta, why haven't you written any more novels?
July 22, 2021
Before I tell you what this book is about, I have to say- I have never been so emotionally traumatized by a fictional story in my life. Right now, I am sitting here with a pint of ice cream, cookies, and chocolate trying to eat my feelings away. Though hands down one of the best series I’ve ever read, I don’t even know if I can recommend them to anyone lest they feel as bad I do at this very moment. I’m also not sure I can properly explain/review this book, but I will do my absolute best to avoid any kind of spoilers, because if you do read this beautiful series it deserves to be read right.
After the events of Mark of Distinction, Julia Elliston finally feels that she has broken free from the controlling clutches of powerful Mr. Macy. She steps on a path towards healing, but still holds the worry that the information she holds over Macy may one day cause more harm than good. Her worst fear takes place when their secrets are unleashed and everyone discovers that Julia, the Emerald Heiress, is the elusive wife of Mr. Macy. Julia’s newfound faith is tested once again when she faces all of London in one of the most controversial marital cases ever to come across Victorian courts. Who will she turn to? Who can she trust?
Unlike books that simply tell a story, these books delve into the inner nooks and crannies of the human heart, fiercely focusing on real emotions and not just the outside tale. Even with the first three-quarters of this book being slower paced (to the point of being a little boring at times, but please don’t give up on it!), it truly focuses on Julia’s emotional journey which was something that made it more realistic. I experienced a myriad of different feelings alongside Julia- heartbreak, hope, confusion, fear, elation, grief, etc. Maybe that’s part of the reason why even though this book is fictional, it hit me so hard.
To say that the Price of Privilege series is a fictional masterpiece is an understatement.
I don’t even think that it was Julia’s story in particular that made this series so great (though passionate, fierce Edward and loving, steady Isaac certainly contributed); it was the author’s pure talent and ability to draw the reader so fully into the world she’d created. There’s something almost magical about Dotta’s lyrical writing (I’m convinced she could write about Old MacDonald having a farm and it’d be beautiful) and I look forward to anything she might write in the future, but I’m also a bit tentative of reading anything else from her because I fear that emotionally I couldn’t handle another ending like this. Speaking of the ending, this was perhaps my one and only disappointment with the series as a whole, though it was still wonderfully told. I will say nothing else about it except this – no matter how tempted you feel by the semi-slow pace at the beginning, DO NOT TAKE A PEEK OF THE END OF THIS BOOK. If you’ve read this conclusion already, you’ll know what I mean.
Let’s talk about the characters for a moment- one of my favorite parts of this book was the addition of Jameson to this already stellar character ensemble, who sprinkled a bit of lightheartedness to an otherwise very serious book. I simply adored him. If there’s anything else I’d want to add, it’d be that I strongly suggest that you read these books one after the other! I re-read the first two before tackling this one and boy am I glad I did.
Ending this book now, I finally understand why my sister so adamantly urged me to read this conclusion as soon as possible. It is a truly remarkable (albeit heartbreaking) trilogy, with beautiful characters, an alluring setting, and daring plotline. Excuse me now while I go cry some more and attend to my melting ice cream.
*I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
http://www.willbakeforbooks.com/2015/...
Update 7/20/21:
I reread this series. I don’t know why I did it to myself again but I’m glad I did. I’m as emotionally wrecked from my first reading, but I see the ending, the whole story, a little different now with 6 more years of life experience. This writer is a woman who truly has a God-given talent and it’s touched my heart in so many ways and allowed me to find a little healing within myself. I’m grateful for this story.
After the events of Mark of Distinction, Julia Elliston finally feels that she has broken free from the controlling clutches of powerful Mr. Macy. She steps on a path towards healing, but still holds the worry that the information she holds over Macy may one day cause more harm than good. Her worst fear takes place when their secrets are unleashed and everyone discovers that Julia, the Emerald Heiress, is the elusive wife of Mr. Macy. Julia’s newfound faith is tested once again when she faces all of London in one of the most controversial marital cases ever to come across Victorian courts. Who will she turn to? Who can she trust?
Unlike books that simply tell a story, these books delve into the inner nooks and crannies of the human heart, fiercely focusing on real emotions and not just the outside tale. Even with the first three-quarters of this book being slower paced (to the point of being a little boring at times, but please don’t give up on it!), it truly focuses on Julia’s emotional journey which was something that made it more realistic. I experienced a myriad of different feelings alongside Julia- heartbreak, hope, confusion, fear, elation, grief, etc. Maybe that’s part of the reason why even though this book is fictional, it hit me so hard.
To say that the Price of Privilege series is a fictional masterpiece is an understatement.
I don’t even think that it was Julia’s story in particular that made this series so great (though passionate, fierce Edward and loving, steady Isaac certainly contributed); it was the author’s pure talent and ability to draw the reader so fully into the world she’d created. There’s something almost magical about Dotta’s lyrical writing (I’m convinced she could write about Old MacDonald having a farm and it’d be beautiful) and I look forward to anything she might write in the future, but I’m also a bit tentative of reading anything else from her because I fear that emotionally I couldn’t handle another ending like this. Speaking of the ending, this was perhaps my one and only disappointment with the series as a whole, though it was still wonderfully told. I will say nothing else about it except this – no matter how tempted you feel by the semi-slow pace at the beginning, DO NOT TAKE A PEEK OF THE END OF THIS BOOK. If you’ve read this conclusion already, you’ll know what I mean.
Let’s talk about the characters for a moment- one of my favorite parts of this book was the addition of Jameson to this already stellar character ensemble, who sprinkled a bit of lightheartedness to an otherwise very serious book. I simply adored him. If there’s anything else I’d want to add, it’d be that I strongly suggest that you read these books one after the other! I re-read the first two before tackling this one and boy am I glad I did.
Ending this book now, I finally understand why my sister so adamantly urged me to read this conclusion as soon as possible. It is a truly remarkable (albeit heartbreaking) trilogy, with beautiful characters, an alluring setting, and daring plotline. Excuse me now while I go cry some more and attend to my melting ice cream.
*I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
http://www.willbakeforbooks.com/2015/...
Update 7/20/21:
I reread this series. I don’t know why I did it to myself again but I’m glad I did. I’m as emotionally wrecked from my first reading, but I see the ending, the whole story, a little different now with 6 more years of life experience. This writer is a woman who truly has a God-given talent and it’s touched my heart in so many ways and allowed me to find a little healing within myself. I’m grateful for this story.
December 21, 2014
I often group books into three categories: shallow, still touching the bottom, and deep. A shallow book is enjoyable for its effortless readability. I can pick it up whenever and read it even in the most chaotic situations like a pediatricians office in flu season. If a book is “still touching the bottom” I am reading something that requires a little more investment and concentration. Lastly, a deep book requires more of me. I need to read it in a quiet room and focus on the unfolding plot. In Price of Privilege, I found myself in the deep end of the pool for all 446 pages.
First of all, this book does not stand alone. You do need to read the prior books before reading this title. Jessica Dotta has written an intriguing trilogy and each book is essential to the story. Picking up right at the end of the very dramatic and emotionally taxing drama might leave you confused. Having said that, it is absolutely worth it to read all three.
In this final installment of the Price of Privilege trilogy, Julia Elliston has managed to marry her true love, Edward. They spend only a few wonderful pages in martial bliss before they are on the run. Finding refuge only in the home of her father, Lord Pierson, Julia finds her self in a legal battle for her life. Short of a miracle, Edward will lose his life and she will be returned to Chance Macy.
Very few books bring me to tears, but I found myself with wet eyes in the final chapters of Price of Privilege. Honestly, I was unaware I had cared so much for the characters. Many times, I found Julia exhausting and the ongoing crisis energy depleting. There are few joyous moments of relief. (Think Wuthering Heights sprinkled with a little Jane Austen.) In the end, Dotta brings everything to a close in a surprise ending I never saw coming. I would be delighted to see this book made into a movie, preferably by the BBC.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own
First of all, this book does not stand alone. You do need to read the prior books before reading this title. Jessica Dotta has written an intriguing trilogy and each book is essential to the story. Picking up right at the end of the very dramatic and emotionally taxing drama might leave you confused. Having said that, it is absolutely worth it to read all three.
In this final installment of the Price of Privilege trilogy, Julia Elliston has managed to marry her true love, Edward. They spend only a few wonderful pages in martial bliss before they are on the run. Finding refuge only in the home of her father, Lord Pierson, Julia finds her self in a legal battle for her life. Short of a miracle, Edward will lose his life and she will be returned to Chance Macy.
Very few books bring me to tears, but I found myself with wet eyes in the final chapters of Price of Privilege. Honestly, I was unaware I had cared so much for the characters. Many times, I found Julia exhausting and the ongoing crisis energy depleting. There are few joyous moments of relief. (Think Wuthering Heights sprinkled with a little Jane Austen.) In the end, Dotta brings everything to a close in a surprise ending I never saw coming. I would be delighted to see this book made into a movie, preferably by the BBC.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own
September 29, 2016
Honestly, I don't know why I finished this series. I had high hopes for this last book and it was sorely disappointing. Beyond disappointing. Julia is the most selfish and annoying character I have ever read about. She continually made dumb decision after dumb decision. Always thinking of things to say but never saying them. She's the queen of "slight nods".
Why did anyone think that Nancy pretending to be mute would solve any problems? Like anyone at Macy's estate would forget the sassy, smart mouthed brat she was while there? That pretending to be mute for a month would fool anyone? Dumbest plot decision ever.
Edward was wholly unlikeable through the whole series. There was never any explanation as to why or how Julia felt such comfort and peace in his presence. He was condescending, stuck up, and rude the whole time. Even while taking advantage of her dad's wealth and comfort he derided him for having wealth and comfort. If you don't like it then leave!
The only halfway likable person was Isaac but his insistence on helping Julia to the point of his death was just incomprehensible. The whole thing with the poetry book and him being destined to marry her was so weird and never really explained. Actually, not a whole lot was explained in the book except Julia's deep feelings of inadequacy. No explanation was ever given as to why someone like Isaac would have feelings for the selfish, spoiled, and irrational heroine. He should have married Evelyn on the spot and wiped his hands clean of Julia.
Julia's inner thoughts and whining about how unfairly she was being treated and how no body had ever loved her were just too much. Every single problem in her life was caused by her own stupid decisions all the way up to the end of the trial! What an idiot! It's like the author thought of the worst possible decision Julia could make and then wrote her making an even worse one.
I can't even with this series. Maybe this rant will help someone else not have to read the books. The book should have been called Price of Stupidity.
Why did anyone think that Nancy pretending to be mute would solve any problems? Like anyone at Macy's estate would forget the sassy, smart mouthed brat she was while there? That pretending to be mute for a month would fool anyone? Dumbest plot decision ever.
Edward was wholly unlikeable through the whole series. There was never any explanation as to why or how Julia felt such comfort and peace in his presence. He was condescending, stuck up, and rude the whole time. Even while taking advantage of her dad's wealth and comfort he derided him for having wealth and comfort. If you don't like it then leave!
The only halfway likable person was Isaac but his insistence on helping Julia to the point of his death was just incomprehensible. The whole thing with the poetry book and him being destined to marry her was so weird and never really explained. Actually, not a whole lot was explained in the book except Julia's deep feelings of inadequacy. No explanation was ever given as to why someone like Isaac would have feelings for the selfish, spoiled, and irrational heroine. He should have married Evelyn on the spot and wiped his hands clean of Julia.
Julia's inner thoughts and whining about how unfairly she was being treated and how no body had ever loved her were just too much. Every single problem in her life was caused by her own stupid decisions all the way up to the end of the trial! What an idiot! It's like the author thought of the worst possible decision Julia could make and then wrote her making an even worse one.
I can't even with this series. Maybe this rant will help someone else not have to read the books. The book should have been called Price of Stupidity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2015
One of the best books I've read this year!
When I read the first book in this series I didn't like Julia, she was just so foolish and headstrong. But after I finished I gave it high marks because I realized the extent of the author's talent. Jessica Dotta had written a heroine that I couldn't be indifferent about, she completely engaged my emotions on every page. In the second book I gained sympathy with Julia as learned more about her and as she gradually changed. As I read Price Of Privilege I came to the conclusion that I truly cared about her. I so wanted everything to work out for her, and I found myself breathlessly turning pages to find out what would happen next.
If you are looking for a light and fluffy historical you'll need to look elsewhere. This Gothic tale of romance, intrigue, manipulation, and sacrifice, is so much more. It deals with the darker side of Victorian society and is perfectly delightful. I love a read that I can sink my teeth into, totally immersing me into the world the characters see, and Price Of Privilege does that to perfection.
One of the best things about this series, and especially Price Of Privilege, is that Jessica Dotta never writes what you expect. There are more twists and turns than the streets of London. I couldn't put the book down at all and I was pulled inexorably along with Julia to the startling conclusion.
I think this book could easily be my favorite of the three, and not just because all of my questions were answered, I felt even more connected to the characters and involved in the storyline. I really can't wait to see whatever Jessica Dotta might be doing next.
Price Of Privilege is a MUST read for fans of historical fiction!
(I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.)
When I read the first book in this series I didn't like Julia, she was just so foolish and headstrong. But after I finished I gave it high marks because I realized the extent of the author's talent. Jessica Dotta had written a heroine that I couldn't be indifferent about, she completely engaged my emotions on every page. In the second book I gained sympathy with Julia as learned more about her and as she gradually changed. As I read Price Of Privilege I came to the conclusion that I truly cared about her. I so wanted everything to work out for her, and I found myself breathlessly turning pages to find out what would happen next.
If you are looking for a light and fluffy historical you'll need to look elsewhere. This Gothic tale of romance, intrigue, manipulation, and sacrifice, is so much more. It deals with the darker side of Victorian society and is perfectly delightful. I love a read that I can sink my teeth into, totally immersing me into the world the characters see, and Price Of Privilege does that to perfection.
One of the best things about this series, and especially Price Of Privilege, is that Jessica Dotta never writes what you expect. There are more twists and turns than the streets of London. I couldn't put the book down at all and I was pulled inexorably along with Julia to the startling conclusion.
I think this book could easily be my favorite of the three, and not just because all of my questions were answered, I felt even more connected to the characters and involved in the storyline. I really can't wait to see whatever Jessica Dotta might be doing next.
Price Of Privilege is a MUST read for fans of historical fiction!
(I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.)
January 24, 2015
I am still trying to come down emotionally from this book. It did not turn out how I thought it would after book #2, but partway through the third, I realized what would ultimately happen and hoped against all odds that it wouldn't. It did. And I cannot honestly remember when I have been so emotionally devastated by a book. Usually, I am able to compartmentalize my feelings so that I don't get too heavily involved in the characters because I know they're not real, but there was just no way of doing that in this series.
I also really found Julia's overpowering fears and lack of voice frustrating. And I found it highly unbelievable that she suddenly was able to overcome all she had struggled against .
That being said, the book was very powerfully gothic, which I enjoyed. The layers of intrigue and secrets were sometimes overpowering, but also made it highly entertaining. The writing was very well done, and the psychology was fantastic. I think Jessica Dotta did a wonderful job of making the characters dynamic and human by imbuing them with both good and evil- as we all are. I even felt keenly for Mr. Macy and Lord Pierson most of the time- the hallmark of a really great gothic novel.
I also really found Julia's overpowering fears and lack of voice frustrating. And I found it highly unbelievable that she suddenly was able to overcome all she had struggled against .
That being said, the book was very powerfully gothic, which I enjoyed. The layers of intrigue and secrets were sometimes overpowering, but also made it highly entertaining. The writing was very well done, and the psychology was fantastic. I think Jessica Dotta did a wonderful job of making the characters dynamic and human by imbuing them with both good and evil- as we all are. I even felt keenly for Mr. Macy and Lord Pierson most of the time- the hallmark of a really great gothic novel.
January 19, 2015
Julia Elliston returns in the action-packed finale that will put an end to her trouble one way or another. The plot thickens as Julia is shamed on different fronts and pushed away by her new in-laws. But that's the least of her problems. Chance Macy is still on her trail and will stop at nothing to stop her from airing out all of his dirty secrets that he cannot afford to be made known. It's Julia and her race against the clock to preserve everything and everyone that she holds dear.
Jessica Dotta wraps up Julia's story in the intriguing third installment of a very gothic trilogy. Like the second book it has a tendency to drag in many areas but it's still a well-written story. A few details could be a little bit too revealing and I found myself getting somewhat unforgettable but the mystery and how the story would ultimately end kept me going. Readers will be kept guessing throughout the story and I was even shocked by some of the deaths that occurred. Worth a read.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received a hardcopy of “Price of Privilege” provided by Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
Jessica Dotta wraps up Julia's story in the intriguing third installment of a very gothic trilogy. Like the second book it has a tendency to drag in many areas but it's still a well-written story. A few details could be a little bit too revealing and I found myself getting somewhat unforgettable but the mystery and how the story would ultimately end kept me going. Readers will be kept guessing throughout the story and I was even shocked by some of the deaths that occurred. Worth a read.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received a hardcopy of “Price of Privilege” provided by Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
June 7, 2015
Not often does a book move me as much as this one did. So many sentences that I thought I must write down. I still do not know exactly what I think - so much to consider. A truly great work. Dotta is an talented artist - I will read everything she writes.
January 30, 2021
This series must be read in order
Paperback: 2014
Audiobook: 2016
Paperback: 2014
Audiobook: 2016
January 20, 2015
"With such dreadful truths ruling the universe, it is no wonder that grace and mercy are all that is left us."
This series has riven me through and there are no words to express the daze I am left in upon reading the final page. Dotta's writing is powerful. I was left stunned and heartbroken, and I could not order my thoughts well enough to produce the review I attempt to write now. How can I review such a book?
I love these characters. Love them all. They are masterfully constructed, that they can shine in such banal and ordinary everyday circumstances! To turn a dinner into such a tense and exciting thing through well thought-out and gripping dialogue is a wonderful thing. That Dotta uses this unconventional formula in this series is what makes me respect her so much; it's such a risk, yet such a good one.
To fall outside the necessity for structure that readers expect--and by structure I'm referring to the rule of action, the ability to order events on an ascending line that until the falling action lays out with perfect clarity the formula of storytelling we're so used to--is a great risk. You risk boring readers who expect a certain method of telling, not only in historical fiction, but in all stories.
I'm certainly not advocating the lack of structure, as few are the writers who can pull it off correctly. You end up with an orderless mess like "Crossed" by Ally Condie. (I must demand a climax in all stories, regardless. This seemed to have no visible result, which antagonised me to no end.)
That this is a series enables such rich character development, and the characters don't grow tired and boring, don't need to have worn devices invented for them in order for their story to continue in a drooping and boring means to an end. That Julia's main problem continues throughout the series perhaps aids the development of "filler," which causes the story to proceed in a slower manner, however the filler is by no means unentertaining.
This series has riven me through and there are no words to express the daze I am left in upon reading the final page. Dotta's writing is powerful. I was left stunned and heartbroken, and I could not order my thoughts well enough to produce the review I attempt to write now. How can I review such a book?
I love these characters. Love them all. They are masterfully constructed, that they can shine in such banal and ordinary everyday circumstances! To turn a dinner into such a tense and exciting thing through well thought-out and gripping dialogue is a wonderful thing. That Dotta uses this unconventional formula in this series is what makes me respect her so much; it's such a risk, yet such a good one.
To fall outside the necessity for structure that readers expect--and by structure I'm referring to the rule of action, the ability to order events on an ascending line that until the falling action lays out with perfect clarity the formula of storytelling we're so used to--is a great risk. You risk boring readers who expect a certain method of telling, not only in historical fiction, but in all stories.
I'm certainly not advocating the lack of structure, as few are the writers who can pull it off correctly. You end up with an orderless mess like "Crossed" by Ally Condie. (I must demand a climax in all stories, regardless. This seemed to have no visible result, which antagonised me to no end.)
That this is a series enables such rich character development, and the characters don't grow tired and boring, don't need to have worn devices invented for them in order for their story to continue in a drooping and boring means to an end. That Julia's main problem continues throughout the series perhaps aids the development of "filler," which causes the story to proceed in a slower manner, however the filler is by no means unentertaining.
December 23, 2022
This series MUST be read in order. This was an extremely well-written final book to the Price of Privilege series. I found myself highlighting so many passages, both funny and thought-provoking. I will definitely need to reread this series again one day.
Warning: DO NOT finish this book at night, or you'll have a terrible case of book/series hangover.
Warning: DO NOT finish this book at night, or you'll have a terrible case of book/series hangover.
July 8, 2015
I’m thrilled to receive a review copy from an author I adore. It’s the third book in the Price of Privilege series; that just blew me away! After reading the last book in the series, Mark of Distinction I couldn't imagine where this author would take me next. Things seemed to have ended. But in this third and final book in the series, this author shows how maddening things can get when Chancy Macy stirs things up and is set on getting Julia back as his wife. This author created a realistic and believable world as the wealthy try to outsmart each other for power and revenge.
This story opens similar to the Titanic movie where the director starts out with an old woman speaking about her time on the ship. This author does the same. She starts out with Julia reminiscing about the early days of her marriage to Edward. Soon I was whisked into the merriment of Henry and Elizabeth’s wedding preparations and celebration. I was reunited with characters I grew to love in books one and two. I felt at home in this Victorian Era and was quickly wrapped up with these complex, authentic characters whom I've grown very fond of and settled in to enjoy this special day. Two of these characters I adored in this story were Jameson and Nancy. It was a great back drop to all the mystery, tension and suspense.
It was great fun to witness Edward and Julia’s love grow and the playfulness begin. I loved that the author let readers enjoy tender moments with them before they headed into the war being waged against them. I liked how this author doesn't write what you’d expect. She masterfully spins a remarkable and believable story that take you emotionally high, low and everywhere in between.
Julia describes, “…I titled up toward his kiss, but just before our lips met, I shrieked with laughter and yanked the blanket hard, then rolled over and cocooned myself in wool.
Edward roared with laughter, “Why you little-“ The straw in the mattress shifted as he pinned me between his knees and searched for a seam. “That’s it. As your husband, I’m taking full charge of the blanket and its distribution…I gave a squeal, prepared to defend my sole right to the bed clothes.” Edward! Stop! Don’t you dare! It’s positively freezing!”
“Trust me I know.” He continued to unwrap me, as I in turn struggled to make it more difficult. “I’m beginning to suspect.” He cried, “that you, Mrs. Edward Auburn, are a cover thief! And there’s only one proper punishment for thieves.”
I could scarily breathe from laughing…”And what…is that?” (You’ll have to read the book for the answer)
As much fun as I experienced reading about tender moments with Julia, my heart ached as much or more for the dilemma they faced. Macy pulls out all the stops to get his wife back. This is a grand adventure I’m thrilled to have gone on. This author does a masterful job of filling in the gaps left in books one and two. This story brings about so much understanding and clarity of situations past and present. I was lost in this Victorian Ear with all the drama swirling around Julia, Edward, Isaac and Lord Pierson as Macy seeks to devour anyone in his way in obtaining his prize.
This author had me stop breathing a time or two with the many plot twists and turns that tugged at my heart and blew me away. My throat tightened with the drama unfolding I as I was just as surprised as the characters at all that transpired. This book has a most satisfying and startling conclusion to a masterfully written story and had characters that will live on in my heart. This would make a great mini-series and/or epic film like Gone with the Wind. This book is excellent for book club pick. It’s definitely a book you must read in 2015. You must!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
This story opens similar to the Titanic movie where the director starts out with an old woman speaking about her time on the ship. This author does the same. She starts out with Julia reminiscing about the early days of her marriage to Edward. Soon I was whisked into the merriment of Henry and Elizabeth’s wedding preparations and celebration. I was reunited with characters I grew to love in books one and two. I felt at home in this Victorian Era and was quickly wrapped up with these complex, authentic characters whom I've grown very fond of and settled in to enjoy this special day. Two of these characters I adored in this story were Jameson and Nancy. It was a great back drop to all the mystery, tension and suspense.
It was great fun to witness Edward and Julia’s love grow and the playfulness begin. I loved that the author let readers enjoy tender moments with them before they headed into the war being waged against them. I liked how this author doesn't write what you’d expect. She masterfully spins a remarkable and believable story that take you emotionally high, low and everywhere in between.
Julia describes, “…I titled up toward his kiss, but just before our lips met, I shrieked with laughter and yanked the blanket hard, then rolled over and cocooned myself in wool.
Edward roared with laughter, “Why you little-“ The straw in the mattress shifted as he pinned me between his knees and searched for a seam. “That’s it. As your husband, I’m taking full charge of the blanket and its distribution…I gave a squeal, prepared to defend my sole right to the bed clothes.” Edward! Stop! Don’t you dare! It’s positively freezing!”
“Trust me I know.” He continued to unwrap me, as I in turn struggled to make it more difficult. “I’m beginning to suspect.” He cried, “that you, Mrs. Edward Auburn, are a cover thief! And there’s only one proper punishment for thieves.”
I could scarily breathe from laughing…”And what…is that?” (You’ll have to read the book for the answer)
As much fun as I experienced reading about tender moments with Julia, my heart ached as much or more for the dilemma they faced. Macy pulls out all the stops to get his wife back. This is a grand adventure I’m thrilled to have gone on. This author does a masterful job of filling in the gaps left in books one and two. This story brings about so much understanding and clarity of situations past and present. I was lost in this Victorian Ear with all the drama swirling around Julia, Edward, Isaac and Lord Pierson as Macy seeks to devour anyone in his way in obtaining his prize.
This author had me stop breathing a time or two with the many plot twists and turns that tugged at my heart and blew me away. My throat tightened with the drama unfolding I as I was just as surprised as the characters at all that transpired. This book has a most satisfying and startling conclusion to a masterfully written story and had characters that will live on in my heart. This would make a great mini-series and/or epic film like Gone with the Wind. This book is excellent for book club pick. It’s definitely a book you must read in 2015. You must!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
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