What do you think?
Rate this book
Pour l'amour d'un soldat
Je viens de surprendre une conversation entre deux hommes qui préparent votre assassinat ! Garrett Sinclair se méfie d'emblée d'Alex Daniels, le jeune homme malingre qui vient de le mettre en garde. Qui s'en prendrait à un héros de guerre comme lui, blessé en Crimée ? Soudain, leur voiture est attaquée par des hommes armés. C'est l'accident. Bien que Garrett parvienne à déjouer l'assaut, Alex est assommé. Et là, stupeur : sa perruque arrachée dévoile une cascade de boucles blondes ! Car Alex s'appelle en réalité Alexandra et, avec elle, Garrett n'est pas au bout de ses surprises...
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2013
About the author
Victoria Morgan
3 books28 followersA lifelong New England resident, Victoria Morgan lives in a suburb of Boston. There she juggles (with differing degrees of priority) a part-time job, writing, watercolor classes, her husband, two teen-agers, and a mini-golden doodle with a Napoleon complex. A 2011 RWA® Golden Heart® Finalist and an insatiable reader, she loves to see the magic of a world taking shape through the words of a book or the beauty of a painted picture.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 21, 2016
For the Love of a Soldier is that rare thing; a début novel that reads as though the author has a stable of books to her name already.
The plot is a fairly simple one. Lady Alexandra Langton, a young woman, on the verge of destitution decides to risk everything she has left (the sum of one hundred pounds) at the gaming tables in a desperate attempt to increase her funds. But of course, ladies were not allowed to indulge in “deep” play, and so she has to disguise herself as a man in order to gain entry to the sorts of events at which she will be able to gamble large sums of money. I have to say that I dislike stories in which the heroine dresses as a man and manages to pass as one without suspicion, but to the author’s credit, she made it work here, by indicating that Alex has done more than simply cut her hair or wear a suit.
Predictably however, her gambit doesn’t pay off, and she loses at cards, to Captain Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall, a man with a less than savoury reputation. But Garrett, sensing her desperation and believing her to be little more than a boy returns her money to her, telling her that while he will comfortably take money from a man, he will not ruin a boy.
Simultaneously annoyed and relieved, Alex later inadvertently overhears two men plotting to murder the Earl of Kendall, and seeing a way to repay him for his earlier gesture, Alex warns him of the danger.
Believing her to be his only lead – and still thinking she is a boy – Garrett insists that Alex accompany him home, but they are set upon along the way. During the fray, Alex is knocked unconscious, her disguise is dislodged and Garrett discovers that she’s not what she seems.
The assassination plot drives the story forward, but this is no adventure romp, because the real heart of the novel is the growing friendship and romance between Garrett and Alex.
Victoria Morgan has chosen to set her story in the 1850s, in the aftermath of the Crimean War, which is not often referenced in historical romance, so it’s a refreshing change. Through the eyes of Captain Garrett Sinclair, we get a glimpse of the true horror of war. He’s a war hero, a survivor of the infamous Charge of the Light Brigade, that act of glorious, against-all-odds bravery that was immortalised by Tennyson in his famous poem. But glory and honour is not what we are shown. Garrett has been traumatised by his war-time experiences and is suffering from what we would today recognise as PTSD, and he also carries around a huge chunk of survivor’s guilt.
Like many veterans – then and now – he does not talk about the war; he wants to bury everything deep inside so that he never has to go through it and re-live it. All he wants to do is to forget, and we learn that in a vain attempt to do so, he spent much of his time after leaving the army gaming, wenching and drinking, rattling around Europe in aimless depravity. Fortunately for him, however, he realised that wasn’t helping, he needed to be in control; and so he sobered up and eschewed the wenching, concentrating instead on the gambling.
He’s wealthy, has many estates and a good eye for business; he’s also utterly gorgeous with a quick wit, a gift for innuendo and a strong sense of honour. Alex is the perfect foil for him. She gives as good as she gets in their verbal sparring, she’s loyal and strong (without being stubborn for the sake of it!) and, sensing the darkness buried deep down, wants to help Garrett any way she can.
She’s had some experience of working with soldiers and veterans, having spent time working at the Chelsea Hospital, and although she knows she can do little more than listen, she also knows that ‘just’ listening seemed to have helped many of the men she knew. I’m pleased to say that the author hasn’t chosen to present Alex as Garrett’s “cure”, because as anyone who knows anything about PTSD will know, that just doesn’t happen. Rather, she presents Alex as someone who works out when to push and when to leave him alone; she knows he needs to talk, but that he needs to do it in his own time, and the scene where he finally unburdens himself packs a real emotional punch.
Amid all this talk of war and horror however, the reader will also find some of the funniest dialogue it’s ever been my privilege to read in a romantic novel. The exchanges between Garrett, his sister and brother-in-law are frequently hilarious as they tease each other constantly – and it’s clear that there’s an incredibly deep affection between them. Garrett enjoys getting a rise out of Alexandra, too, and comes to realise that for the first time in years, he’s starting to feel something like happiness and attraction.
If I have one quibble with the story, it’s that Alex’s backstory is rather flimsy, as are her reasons for rejecting Garrett towards the end of the book. On the positive side, I suppose it means that the solution is simple, and Garrett does indeed get things sorted out quite quickly.
I really can’t recommend this book highly enough. The writing is intelligent, the characterisation is excellent and the dialogue just sparkles. Garrett is one of the best flawed heroes I’ve come across in the genre, and the romance between him and Alex is warm and tender as well as being enough to get any reader a bit hot under the collar – the scene where they finally make love is one of the sexiest and most sensual I’ve ever read.
Coming from an established writer, For the Love of a Soldier would have been quite something. As a début, it’s an incredible achievement, and I’m eagerly waiting Victoria Morgan’s next project, which I believe is scheduled for this Autumn.
Edited 22 March 2013: My other review of this title is now up at All About Romance.
The plot is a fairly simple one. Lady Alexandra Langton, a young woman, on the verge of destitution decides to risk everything she has left (the sum of one hundred pounds) at the gaming tables in a desperate attempt to increase her funds. But of course, ladies were not allowed to indulge in “deep” play, and so she has to disguise herself as a man in order to gain entry to the sorts of events at which she will be able to gamble large sums of money. I have to say that I dislike stories in which the heroine dresses as a man and manages to pass as one without suspicion, but to the author’s credit, she made it work here, by indicating that Alex has done more than simply cut her hair or wear a suit.
Predictably however, her gambit doesn’t pay off, and she loses at cards, to Captain Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall, a man with a less than savoury reputation. But Garrett, sensing her desperation and believing her to be little more than a boy returns her money to her, telling her that while he will comfortably take money from a man, he will not ruin a boy.
Simultaneously annoyed and relieved, Alex later inadvertently overhears two men plotting to murder the Earl of Kendall, and seeing a way to repay him for his earlier gesture, Alex warns him of the danger.
Believing her to be his only lead – and still thinking she is a boy – Garrett insists that Alex accompany him home, but they are set upon along the way. During the fray, Alex is knocked unconscious, her disguise is dislodged and Garrett discovers that she’s not what she seems.
The assassination plot drives the story forward, but this is no adventure romp, because the real heart of the novel is the growing friendship and romance between Garrett and Alex.
Victoria Morgan has chosen to set her story in the 1850s, in the aftermath of the Crimean War, which is not often referenced in historical romance, so it’s a refreshing change. Through the eyes of Captain Garrett Sinclair, we get a glimpse of the true horror of war. He’s a war hero, a survivor of the infamous Charge of the Light Brigade, that act of glorious, against-all-odds bravery that was immortalised by Tennyson in his famous poem. But glory and honour is not what we are shown. Garrett has been traumatised by his war-time experiences and is suffering from what we would today recognise as PTSD, and he also carries around a huge chunk of survivor’s guilt.
Like many veterans – then and now – he does not talk about the war; he wants to bury everything deep inside so that he never has to go through it and re-live it. All he wants to do is to forget, and we learn that in a vain attempt to do so, he spent much of his time after leaving the army gaming, wenching and drinking, rattling around Europe in aimless depravity. Fortunately for him, however, he realised that wasn’t helping, he needed to be in control; and so he sobered up and eschewed the wenching, concentrating instead on the gambling.
He’s wealthy, has many estates and a good eye for business; he’s also utterly gorgeous with a quick wit, a gift for innuendo and a strong sense of honour. Alex is the perfect foil for him. She gives as good as she gets in their verbal sparring, she’s loyal and strong (without being stubborn for the sake of it!) and, sensing the darkness buried deep down, wants to help Garrett any way she can.
She’s had some experience of working with soldiers and veterans, having spent time working at the Chelsea Hospital, and although she knows she can do little more than listen, she also knows that ‘just’ listening seemed to have helped many of the men she knew. I’m pleased to say that the author hasn’t chosen to present Alex as Garrett’s “cure”, because as anyone who knows anything about PTSD will know, that just doesn’t happen. Rather, she presents Alex as someone who works out when to push and when to leave him alone; she knows he needs to talk, but that he needs to do it in his own time, and the scene where he finally unburdens himself packs a real emotional punch.
Amid all this talk of war and horror however, the reader will also find some of the funniest dialogue it’s ever been my privilege to read in a romantic novel. The exchanges between Garrett, his sister and brother-in-law are frequently hilarious as they tease each other constantly – and it’s clear that there’s an incredibly deep affection between them. Garrett enjoys getting a rise out of Alexandra, too, and comes to realise that for the first time in years, he’s starting to feel something like happiness and attraction.
If I have one quibble with the story, it’s that Alex’s backstory is rather flimsy, as are her reasons for rejecting Garrett towards the end of the book. On the positive side, I suppose it means that the solution is simple, and Garrett does indeed get things sorted out quite quickly.
I really can’t recommend this book highly enough. The writing is intelligent, the characterisation is excellent and the dialogue just sparkles. Garrett is one of the best flawed heroes I’ve come across in the genre, and the romance between him and Alex is warm and tender as well as being enough to get any reader a bit hot under the collar – the scene where they finally make love is one of the sexiest and most sensual I’ve ever read.
Coming from an established writer, For the Love of a Soldier would have been quite something. As a début, it’s an incredible achievement, and I’m eagerly waiting Victoria Morgan’s next project, which I believe is scheduled for this Autumn.
Edited 22 March 2013: My other review of this title is now up at All About Romance.
March 5, 2013
WARNING: includes some spoilers!
In my experience reading historical romance, they fall into three categories. One is the "wallpaper" historical, which is not concerned with fact or accuracy. The time period is merely to establish some texture in the storyline. The second type pays more attention to detail--the clothing, language, and setting have been researched, the historical backdrop is part of the fabric of the novel. The third type is most interesting to me, since I started reading historical fiction as a young girl. The history is integral to the book. The characters are real and imagined, intertwined within the narrative. History comes alive. We go back in time and get to experience something outside of our own personal reality.
I love them all. Silly historicals like Noble Intentions by Katie MacAlister, elegant and refined novels such as Stephanie Laurens's books and those by Mary Balogh. And every once in a while we get something extraordinary. Something that teaches us about a different time period, but at the same time satisfies our craving for romance and happy endings.
For The Love of a Soldier manages to do it all. This book is an absolute gem. Morgan's story has combined complex characters, a satisfying love story, and a fascinating examination of the Battle of Balaclava and its devastating consequences for the soldiers who survived. Many historical romances have heroes who have been traumatized by war, but usually the reality of battle is glossed over and sacrificed for a romantic storyline. Not in this case. Morgan makes the stark horror of the war very real--by the post traumatic stress experienced by her hero and by the crippled soldiers who return home to poverty.
There is a stunning scene in this story that made me cry repeatedly. The hero finally confides to the heroine about his experience with the battle made famous by the Tennyson poem The Charge of the Light Brigade. It is emotional, horrifying, and cleansing for Garrett. Alex handles the moment perfectly, and it becomes a turning point for Garrett's healing. Bravo to Victoria Morgan for bringing this fascinating bit of history to life, and seamlessly weaving it into her storyline.
But there is more than history here. There is charming and sexy banter. There are wonderful secondary characters who are clamoring for a story. There are laugh-out-loud funny moments to balance the serious tone in other sections. The mystery propels the plot along, but it is not the primary focus of this book. The primary focus is the characters and their believable love story. I fell madly in love with Garrett. Quite simply, he is a good man. A thoughtful man. A man who does the right thing by his friends, the soldiers who counted on him, by a stranger who has lost everything in a card game. And eventually, the woman he loves.
Alexandra is also a true hero. She is loyal to those who have earned her trust. And she reaches out to this man, despite his bad reputation, because she believes in her heart it's the right thing to do.
And the icing on the historical romance cake is that this novel is beautifully and intelligently written. Morgan's voice is perfect for this genre. She has just the right balance of history, romance, and intelligent prose.
If I had to choose one area to nitpick, I would say that the love scenes were a bit too long. I like them short and sweet, but that's just me.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough for those who love romances that weave real history with a satisfying love story and a blissful HEA. For The Love of a Soldier is a remarkable debut novel.
Grade: A-
In my experience reading historical romance, they fall into three categories. One is the "wallpaper" historical, which is not concerned with fact or accuracy. The time period is merely to establish some texture in the storyline. The second type pays more attention to detail--the clothing, language, and setting have been researched, the historical backdrop is part of the fabric of the novel. The third type is most interesting to me, since I started reading historical fiction as a young girl. The history is integral to the book. The characters are real and imagined, intertwined within the narrative. History comes alive. We go back in time and get to experience something outside of our own personal reality.
I love them all. Silly historicals like Noble Intentions by Katie MacAlister, elegant and refined novels such as Stephanie Laurens's books and those by Mary Balogh. And every once in a while we get something extraordinary. Something that teaches us about a different time period, but at the same time satisfies our craving for romance and happy endings.
For The Love of a Soldier manages to do it all. This book is an absolute gem. Morgan's story has combined complex characters, a satisfying love story, and a fascinating examination of the Battle of Balaclava and its devastating consequences for the soldiers who survived. Many historical romances have heroes who have been traumatized by war, but usually the reality of battle is glossed over and sacrificed for a romantic storyline. Not in this case. Morgan makes the stark horror of the war very real--by the post traumatic stress experienced by her hero and by the crippled soldiers who return home to poverty.
There is a stunning scene in this story that made me cry repeatedly. The hero finally confides to the heroine about his experience with the battle made famous by the Tennyson poem The Charge of the Light Brigade. It is emotional, horrifying, and cleansing for Garrett. Alex handles the moment perfectly, and it becomes a turning point for Garrett's healing. Bravo to Victoria Morgan for bringing this fascinating bit of history to life, and seamlessly weaving it into her storyline.
But there is more than history here. There is charming and sexy banter. There are wonderful secondary characters who are clamoring for a story. There are laugh-out-loud funny moments to balance the serious tone in other sections. The mystery propels the plot along, but it is not the primary focus of this book. The primary focus is the characters and their believable love story. I fell madly in love with Garrett. Quite simply, he is a good man. A thoughtful man. A man who does the right thing by his friends, the soldiers who counted on him, by a stranger who has lost everything in a card game. And eventually, the woman he loves.
Alexandra is also a true hero. She is loyal to those who have earned her trust. And she reaches out to this man, despite his bad reputation, because she believes in her heart it's the right thing to do.
And the icing on the historical romance cake is that this novel is beautifully and intelligently written. Morgan's voice is perfect for this genre. She has just the right balance of history, romance, and intelligent prose.
If I had to choose one area to nitpick, I would say that the love scenes were a bit too long. I like them short and sweet, but that's just me.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough for those who love romances that weave real history with a satisfying love story and a blissful HEA. For The Love of a Soldier is a remarkable debut novel.
Grade: A-
October 22, 2013
Setting: Victorian England
Nearly destitute,Lady Alexandra Langdon disguises herself as a young man to play at a high stakes gaming table.
She loses to Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall a returning war Hero who refuses to take her money. So in exchange Alex tells him of a plot she knows of to murder him and agrees to help him unmask the assassin. Garrett quickly discovers Alex's ruse and insists she accompany him to his country Estate after his carriage is attacked. Her bold behavior, strong will and intelligence proves to be a challenge and as well a temptation to Garrett. He has been dead inside for so long since surviving the Charge of The Light Brigade, yet Alex makes him want to be alive again. The understanding and love that grow between Alex and Garrett is then threatened, but they learn together that love is worth any risk. I really enjoyed this authors debut novel, with it's charming characters and depth of emotion in them as well as the story. The author deftly handled the returning soldiers trauma theme within the context of the story and added spice with a bit of mystery and unexpected secrets as well. Some readers may find the problems easily solved, but for me it worked and I really enjoyed the growth of the romance and the message of love's power to heal. The only quibble I had with this book was the oh-so-tiny-weeny font! Not the authors fault of course,and even though these eyes of mine are *ahem* not as young as they use to be it was a struggle to read. So if it is in ebook format I would highly recommend that, as well as this well told romance :)
Nearly destitute,Lady Alexandra Langdon disguises herself as a young man to play at a high stakes gaming table.
She loses to Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall a returning war Hero who refuses to take her money. So in exchange Alex tells him of a plot she knows of to murder him and agrees to help him unmask the assassin. Garrett quickly discovers Alex's ruse and insists she accompany him to his country Estate after his carriage is attacked. Her bold behavior, strong will and intelligence proves to be a challenge and as well a temptation to Garrett. He has been dead inside for so long since surviving the Charge of The Light Brigade, yet Alex makes him want to be alive again. The understanding and love that grow between Alex and Garrett is then threatened, but they learn together that love is worth any risk. I really enjoyed this authors debut novel, with it's charming characters and depth of emotion in them as well as the story. The author deftly handled the returning soldiers trauma theme within the context of the story and added spice with a bit of mystery and unexpected secrets as well. Some readers may find the problems easily solved, but for me it worked and I really enjoyed the growth of the romance and the message of love's power to heal. The only quibble I had with this book was the oh-so-tiny-weeny font! Not the authors fault of course,and even though these eyes of mine are *ahem* not as young as they use to be it was a struggle to read. So if it is in ebook format I would highly recommend that, as well as this well told romance :)
April 4, 2013
I found this a very frustrating book to read. The writer is talented and has a very assured style for a first time novelist. She created a couple of interesting likeable protagonists, there was a nice level of humour, and some of the historical background, particularly relating to the Crimean war seemed well researched.
But.
I could never, even for one minute believe that these were English people living in the Victorian age, never mind aristocratic ones. The murder plot was both far-fetched and rather tired and obvious.
I'm not going to give a long list of faults, there were a lot of little things that irked me but I suspect I'd have noticed them less if I could have believed in the people more. However let's be clear on one thing; frantic snogging while the bullets fly is not romantic - it's asinine.
But.
I could never, even for one minute believe that these were English people living in the Victorian age, never mind aristocratic ones. The murder plot was both far-fetched and rather tired and obvious.
I'm not going to give a long list of faults, there were a lot of little things that irked me but I suspect I'd have noticed them less if I could have believed in the people more. However let's be clear on one thing; frantic snogging while the bullets fly is not romantic - it's asinine.
April 7, 2013
I pretty much feel the same as Catie did. Review later if I get inclined. Yes, it was funny but in a cutesy kind of way that won't appeal to all readers (Karla and Bavr that means you). The sex was a bit TMI for my tastes, especially when I didn't warm up to the main characters, nor did I find much sexual chemistry between them. Alex's big secret was pretty easy to guess, as was who was behind the murder plot.
March 12, 2013
Extremely well done historical that takes place in the little used period/milieu of the Crimean War. The hero is an ex lancerman who rode in the Charge of the Light Brigade and suffers from terrible PTSD. He has been home from the war for about 6 months when he meets the heroine who is masquerading as a man in order to gamble for high stakes because she needs the money.
The weakest part of the story is the heroine's back history. I felt that the reason she left home could have been stronger and her trials and tribulations during her year away could have been made more of. That is really the reason that this got 4 stars instead of 5. The hero's story however is very well done. His background and experiences in Crimea are pretty complex and realistically portrayed. There was a lot of info about the Charge of the Light Brigade that I didn't know but it wasn't a heavy handed info dump. It all came out as the heroine was helping the hero deal with his PTSD.
The hero was very charming and there was quite a bit of witty repartee. The heroine also was a very nice person and I felt they fit together well and deserved each other. There was a bit of an obvious mystery but it was pretty well handled and I felt the villain had some pretty good emotional motive going on. There were some very explicit love scenes here. I sometimes have a problem with love scenes outside of marriage in historical romances but here they seemed an organic part of the story.
Looking forward to more by this author.
The weakest part of the story is the heroine's back history. I felt that the reason she left home could have been stronger and her trials and tribulations during her year away could have been made more of. That is really the reason that this got 4 stars instead of 5. The hero's story however is very well done. His background and experiences in Crimea are pretty complex and realistically portrayed. There was a lot of info about the Charge of the Light Brigade that I didn't know but it wasn't a heavy handed info dump. It all came out as the heroine was helping the hero deal with his PTSD.
The hero was very charming and there was quite a bit of witty repartee. The heroine also was a very nice person and I felt they fit together well and deserved each other. There was a bit of an obvious mystery but it was pretty well handled and I felt the villain had some pretty good emotional motive going on. There were some very explicit love scenes here. I sometimes have a problem with love scenes outside of marriage in historical romances but here they seemed an organic part of the story.
Looking forward to more by this author.
April 2, 2013
Maybe this wasn't strictly a one star read, but I was bored and annoyed when I left it and the rating reflects that. Also, all the reviews here are positive and I wanted to share why this didn't work for me.
The prose was fine, the pacing seemed good, no one was mind-numbingly stupid or dickish, but I was struggling.
What started to annoy me at first was the constant desire. Or maybe it wasn't the desire, but rather the constant thinking about it. I didn't feel it, I just got annoyed. At one point they are in a carriage and are being shot at and our hero takes the time to kiss the heroine. I was sort of expecting it (nothing in this novel was in any was novel) but I expected a hard, short kiss before he charged the enemy. That seemed in keeping with the characters and the situation. But what happened was a long, hot kiss that made our soldier hero completely forget his surroundings. The surroundings that consists of men shooting at them. It made a lie of a how our hero was told as a competent soldier.
And as a soldier and veteran of Crimea, he of course has PTSD. And this also annoyed me. I got the impression that PTSD was used as insta-angst. It wasn't deeply felt, but made me think of how annoying tropes in romance can be and wonder how come PTSD has become so popular. I should have been feeling the hero's anguish, but instead I was pondering the irresistible lure of PTSD for the modern tortured hero. It gives him a reason to brood, a properly heroic back story and it's an emotional problem which can highlight his masculinity while the heroine can be properly feminine and care for him and cure him.
In this novel that is apparently literal. I stopped at the halfway mark where the heroine had just decided that her experience in reading to wounded soldiers qualifies her to cure the hero by getting him to talk to her. *sigh*
This can be an effective dynamic in a romance - it had anguish, vulnerability and deep caring - but here it just felt like a gimmick.
The set up is that the hero asks the heroine to help him find the killer who is after him after she has overheard a plot. They enter into this business arrangement, she clearly states that sex is not part of the deal. She says she is not susceptible to seduction, he takes that as a challenge and goes after her. This *really* bugged me. She is half starving and destitute when he meets her. She is dependent on the money he is paying her. How is it okay for him to pursue her so aggressively? They have a conversation where he says she can just say no, but that does not make their situation equal. He has all the power and he just powers on. She had not given any real indication that she is open to his advances until he kisses her - which she of course adores. I kept waiting for her to put him in his place.
The they end up at a small hunting lodge because it rains. That situation is soooo clichéd, it was difficult to keep reading due to the constant eye roll.
And the scene that I'm stuck at? He had a nightmare and she rushes to his room in the middle of the night. Every plot point was something I've seen before and seen done better. Everything was predictable. Cross-dressing heroine that the hero feels inexplicably drawn to? Check. Former rake, but now the heroine is the only one he wants? Check. Selfless heroine who tried to save her father's estate? Check. And the list goes on.
There was just not a single element in this book that I haven't seen a million times before. And what was there simply was not compelling enough to make me not care that I had seen it all before. Instead it hit my top annoyances which are power imbalance and mental lusting.
The prose was fine, the pacing seemed good, no one was mind-numbingly stupid or dickish, but I was struggling.
What started to annoy me at first was the constant desire. Or maybe it wasn't the desire, but rather the constant thinking about it. I didn't feel it, I just got annoyed. At one point they are in a carriage and are being shot at and our hero takes the time to kiss the heroine. I was sort of expecting it (nothing in this novel was in any was novel) but I expected a hard, short kiss before he charged the enemy. That seemed in keeping with the characters and the situation. But what happened was a long, hot kiss that made our soldier hero completely forget his surroundings. The surroundings that consists of men shooting at them. It made a lie of a how our hero was told as a competent soldier.
And as a soldier and veteran of Crimea, he of course has PTSD. And this also annoyed me. I got the impression that PTSD was used as insta-angst. It wasn't deeply felt, but made me think of how annoying tropes in romance can be and wonder how come PTSD has become so popular. I should have been feeling the hero's anguish, but instead I was pondering the irresistible lure of PTSD for the modern tortured hero. It gives him a reason to brood, a properly heroic back story and it's an emotional problem which can highlight his masculinity while the heroine can be properly feminine and care for him and cure him.
In this novel that is apparently literal. I stopped at the halfway mark where the heroine had just decided that her experience in reading to wounded soldiers qualifies her to cure the hero by getting him to talk to her. *sigh*
This can be an effective dynamic in a romance - it had anguish, vulnerability and deep caring - but here it just felt like a gimmick.
The set up is that the hero asks the heroine to help him find the killer who is after him after she has overheard a plot. They enter into this business arrangement, she clearly states that sex is not part of the deal. She says she is not susceptible to seduction, he takes that as a challenge and goes after her. This *really* bugged me. She is half starving and destitute when he meets her. She is dependent on the money he is paying her. How is it okay for him to pursue her so aggressively? They have a conversation where he says she can just say no, but that does not make their situation equal. He has all the power and he just powers on. She had not given any real indication that she is open to his advances until he kisses her - which she of course adores. I kept waiting for her to put him in his place.
The they end up at a small hunting lodge because it rains. That situation is soooo clichéd, it was difficult to keep reading due to the constant eye roll.
And the scene that I'm stuck at? He had a nightmare and she rushes to his room in the middle of the night. Every plot point was something I've seen before and seen done better. Everything was predictable. Cross-dressing heroine that the hero feels inexplicably drawn to? Check. Former rake, but now the heroine is the only one he wants? Check. Selfless heroine who tried to save her father's estate? Check. And the list goes on.
There was just not a single element in this book that I haven't seen a million times before. And what was there simply was not compelling enough to make me not care that I had seen it all before. Instead it hit my top annoyances which are power imbalance and mental lusting.
August 24, 2017
Heroine is beaten by hero in a card game where she is masquerading as a man. She then overhears someone plotting his demise and tries to warn him. This had a lot of awesome elements including a deep backstory for the hero.
April 8, 2013
This is a lovely romance with an intricate plot. The characterization is excellent.
Shell shocked Garrett Sinclair had been in the charge of the Light Brigade. Alexandra Langford had run away from her uncle who was only interested in marrying her off to the highest bidder. They meet in a card room and shortly after Alex overhears a plot to murder Sinclair.
While sifting through possible suspects they fall in love and I think I need go no further. I very much enjoyed this novel and recommend it as a good read!
Shell shocked Garrett Sinclair had been in the charge of the Light Brigade. Alexandra Langford had run away from her uncle who was only interested in marrying her off to the highest bidder. They meet in a card room and shortly after Alex overhears a plot to murder Sinclair.
While sifting through possible suspects they fall in love and I think I need go no further. I very much enjoyed this novel and recommend it as a good read!
March 27, 2013
"For the Love of a Soldier" is a beautiful debut historical romance by Victoria Morgan. Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall, survived the carnage immortalized by Tennyson in his poem, "The Charge of the Light Brigade", but he didn't survive unscathed. He has been fighting his sense of guilt at surviving and has not really healed from the damage to his psyche. A game of chance with a desperate opponent who repays his kindness by warning of a threat to Kendall's life prompts him to evaluate where he is going with his life and whether he wants to just exist or is prepared to actually live again. Lady Alexandra Langdon has fled from her own nightmare but discovers that she is ill-prepared to resist the inexorable force housed in the determined ex-soldier. They join forces to attempt to save his life but Alexandra may need other interventions if she is going to find a future of her own.
This evocative historical romance pits a plucky heroine against a war-scarred veteran in a tug of war that is both poignant and humorous. Their unconventional introduction sets the tone for their entire relationship that slowly evolves into a mutually supportive arrangement that employs skills that each has developed through their sometimes painful experiences and gradually blossoms into a deeper association. The give and take is entertaining to watch and the secondary characters provide added depth to the story. I felt that the events leading up to the final confrontation weren't quite set up as thoroughly as they could have been and that there were a few nebulous explanations that are lacking but the overall story was very well-written and engaging. This story provides a sobering look at the hardships and disturbing aspects of war and its aftereffects and forgotten victims which makes the actions of the main characters even more admirable as they each try to provide support to those who have been otherwise abandoned. I look forward to more works from this talented new author.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
This evocative historical romance pits a plucky heroine against a war-scarred veteran in a tug of war that is both poignant and humorous. Their unconventional introduction sets the tone for their entire relationship that slowly evolves into a mutually supportive arrangement that employs skills that each has developed through their sometimes painful experiences and gradually blossoms into a deeper association. The give and take is entertaining to watch and the secondary characters provide added depth to the story. I felt that the events leading up to the final confrontation weren't quite set up as thoroughly as they could have been and that there were a few nebulous explanations that are lacking but the overall story was very well-written and engaging. This story provides a sobering look at the hardships and disturbing aspects of war and its aftereffects and forgotten victims which makes the actions of the main characters even more admirable as they each try to provide support to those who have been otherwise abandoned. I look forward to more works from this talented new author.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
August 9, 2013
Started out really well, but the second half of the book turned into a murder-kidnapping melodrama rather than a character-based story. Too much over-the-top loose talk of killing and shooting people, as well as period-inappropriate language, such as the heroine, an upper-class miss, using words like "damn" and "hell" - sorry, in those days ladies didn't talk or think like that.
I bought the book because quite a few reviews talked about the hero having PTSD and how the heroine helped him with it - I've read a few other books where this is done beautifully (Suzanne Enoch's England's Perfect Hero, Mary Balogh's Simply Love, Alissa Johnson's Nearly a Lady, Lisa Kleypas' Love in the Afternoon). Unfortunately, that aspect was not handled very insightfully in this book.
I bought the book because quite a few reviews talked about the hero having PTSD and how the heroine helped him with it - I've read a few other books where this is done beautifully (Suzanne Enoch's England's Perfect Hero, Mary Balogh's Simply Love, Alissa Johnson's Nearly a Lady, Lisa Kleypas' Love in the Afternoon). Unfortunately, that aspect was not handled very insightfully in this book.
July 24, 2014
This was the first historical romance that I've read and let me tell you that the bar has been set really high. I loved this book and I'll probably write more about it eventually, but for the moment I'm just going to list a few of the reasons.
1. Historical accuracy. I can't say how annoying I find it when something is listed as "historical" but there is no history to it, just women in dresses with tight bodices and big skirts. For the Love of a Soldier was wonderfully historical in it's details and it's feeling. Love love love.
2. I loved how the main characters stories were revealed bit by bit, as they revealed them to each other. The pacing was wonderful.
3. There was an actual, wonderful romance. I have come to realized that I don't like when people just fall into bed with each other. I like anticipation, I like when it isn't quick and easy.
4. I honestly like the main characters. Garett, Alex, Kit and Brandon were all wonderful.
1. Historical accuracy. I can't say how annoying I find it when something is listed as "historical" but there is no history to it, just women in dresses with tight bodices and big skirts. For the Love of a Soldier was wonderfully historical in it's details and it's feeling. Love love love.
2. I loved how the main characters stories were revealed bit by bit, as they revealed them to each other. The pacing was wonderful.
3. There was an actual, wonderful romance. I have come to realized that I don't like when people just fall into bed with each other. I like anticipation, I like when it isn't quick and easy.
4. I honestly like the main characters. Garett, Alex, Kit and Brandon were all wonderful.
April 18, 2013
This started off pretty good. I thought I'd found a good new author. But unfortunately about half way through the book it became more than just a bit ordinary, it became a bit silly, I thought. Shame, it started off not too bad. It actually became a bit of a chore to finish it. If I didn't have so many other things on my mind at the moment, and didn't travel on the train to come and go from work, I would have ditched it for something which held my attention a bit better. I won't rush to read another book by this author. There was a preview of the next book, but it didn't particularly catch my interest.
July 22, 2018
Not bad, well-written, pleasant H&h.
The plot was...improbable, and the resolution a bit silly, but I could imagine reading this one again, and looking out for more by Victoria Morgan.
The plot was...improbable, and the resolution a bit silly, but I could imagine reading this one again, and looking out for more by Victoria Morgan.
August 31, 2020
J'adore les romances historiques.
Ici, c'est une romance historique pas très cucul avec une relation entre les 2 extrêmement intéressante. En effet, la femme ne se laisse pas faire et est l'égale de Garett. De plus, la quête de l'assassin est sympa même si on oublie des fois et l'aspect traumatisme de la guerre est bien développé.
Je suis donc agréablement surprise par cette lecture m'attendant à une énième romance mièvre mais ce n'est pas du tout le cas.
Je vous recommande cette romance si vous voulez des sentiments, passer un bon moment et une pointe d'action.
Ici, c'est une romance historique pas très cucul avec une relation entre les 2 extrêmement intéressante. En effet, la femme ne se laisse pas faire et est l'égale de Garett. De plus, la quête de l'assassin est sympa même si on oublie des fois et l'aspect traumatisme de la guerre est bien développé.
Je suis donc agréablement surprise par cette lecture m'attendant à une énième romance mièvre mais ce n'est pas du tout le cas.
Je vous recommande cette romance si vous voulez des sentiments, passer un bon moment et une pointe d'action.
May 15, 2026
I liked it. It was good, the storyline was good. The writing style was good. Nothing really beats a good old historical romance. The characters are just amazing, although I kind of dislike Kit going to the end because of how she acted with his father. Understandable because THAT is his father so yeah. Still loved all of it.
August 7, 2017
This is going to be a DNF for me. (Rare!) Although the heroine seems a good character in the 11 chapters I read, the writing style is tiresomely full of cliches. Three stars for the heroine.
April 24, 2026
2,5 🌟
C’était bien, mais sans plus, j’ai eu du mal a rester accrocher
C’était bien, mais sans plus, j’ai eu du mal a rester accrocher
April 19, 2013
Very moving books with great heroes. I loved the background. It's a classic love story nowadays but very weell written
http://www.blue-moon.fr/spip.php?arti...
Voilà une nouvelle auteure qui devrait faire parler d’elle. Elle a obtenu en 2011 le Golden Herat de la meilleure romance historique, c’est à dire l’équivalent du RITA pour les amateurs. Là voilà dans la cour des grands maintenant pour un roman délicieux, superbement écrit que l’auteure affirme être inspiré du poème de Tennyson sur la charge de la cavalerie légère en 1854 en Crimée, lors de la bataille de Balaklava.
Rassurez-vous vous n’aurez pas droit à une leçon d’histoire mais un rappel de ce que fut un désastre militaire anglais lorsque mené par deux officiers nobles incompétents, un assaut de la cavalerie anglais contre les Russes se termina par une véritable boucherie. Le poète Tennyson en avait tiré un poème magnifique tout à la gloire des soldats morts mais c’est surtout l’absurdité de la guerre qu’a retenu l’auteure. Ce fut aussi un film avec Errol Flynn en 1936. Garrett, son héros a participé à cet assaut, y a survécu mais vit depuis avec ce que nous appelons un stress de syndrome post-traumatique, phénomène évidemment ignoré à l’époque. Se sentant coupable d’avoir survécu, sujet à des violentes crises de panique, son retour a été pénible et il s’est noyé dans l’alcool. Depuis, il utilise son don pour les jeux de cartes pour s’amuser. C’est là qu’il va rencontrer un énigmatique jeune homme Alex Daniels qui va perdre contre lui. Mais Alex qui est en réalité une jeune femme va surprendre une conversation inquiétante sur les intentions d’un homme de tuer Garrett. Elle va alors tenter de l’avertir sans découvrir sa couverture.
Ce roman est un pur bonheur qui présente bien peu de défauts. Si le fond de l’histoire est très triste et que le traumatisme de Garrett est profond et les ennuis d’Alex très sérieux, ce n’est pas du tout un récit mélancolique et sombre qui s’offre à nous mais une superbe histoire d’amour qui se déroule devant nous sous la plume d’une auteure qui a un talent fou pour évoquer ses personnages et elurs sentiments. Parfois, certaines histoires d’amour paraissent subites et superficielles. Ici, il n’en est rien, nous voyons les deux héros tomber amoureux l’un de l’autre lors de scènes intelligentes et lors d’échanges de dialogues intelligents et amusants.
Car, et c’est un peu une surprise, l’atmosphère s’allège assez souvent pour montrer des héros généreux, qui dépassent leurs problèmes pour parler et la cour assidue que fait Garrett à Alex est charmante et délicieuse, pleine de bons mots et de tendresse. Les deux héros sont parfaits, décrits avec un grand soin, sous leurs facettes multiples. Ils ne sont pas parfaits mais tous deux sont généreux à leur façon et l’envie d’aider Garrett que ressent Alex est profondément émouvante car elle n’hésite jamais alors à se mettre en danger. C’est une très belle relation simple, lumineuse et qu’il faut souligner.
N’oublions pas l’intrigue, réussie car le danger rôde autour de Garrett et si parfois il se fait oublier, il est bien présent, ne révélant ses causes qu’en toute fin de livre.
Ajoutons un couple secondaire charmant, la jeune sœur de Garrett et son époux, son meilleur ami qui joue un rôle important et dont nous finissons par croire qu’elle a déjà été racontée dans un précédent roman tellement il y a d’allusions à leur passé. Il n’en est rien mais l’auteure pourrait y revenir sans problème tellement les personnages sont sympathiques et riches.
Victoria Morgan entre tout de suite dans le groupe des excellentes auteures de romance historique. Tout sonne juste dans ce livre soigné, bien écrit qui choisit de plus une période un moins visitée que la Régence. Sans nul doute, une auteure à suivre.
http://www.blue-moon.fr/spip.php?arti...
Voilà une nouvelle auteure qui devrait faire parler d’elle. Elle a obtenu en 2011 le Golden Herat de la meilleure romance historique, c’est à dire l’équivalent du RITA pour les amateurs. Là voilà dans la cour des grands maintenant pour un roman délicieux, superbement écrit que l’auteure affirme être inspiré du poème de Tennyson sur la charge de la cavalerie légère en 1854 en Crimée, lors de la bataille de Balaklava.
Rassurez-vous vous n’aurez pas droit à une leçon d’histoire mais un rappel de ce que fut un désastre militaire anglais lorsque mené par deux officiers nobles incompétents, un assaut de la cavalerie anglais contre les Russes se termina par une véritable boucherie. Le poète Tennyson en avait tiré un poème magnifique tout à la gloire des soldats morts mais c’est surtout l’absurdité de la guerre qu’a retenu l’auteure. Ce fut aussi un film avec Errol Flynn en 1936. Garrett, son héros a participé à cet assaut, y a survécu mais vit depuis avec ce que nous appelons un stress de syndrome post-traumatique, phénomène évidemment ignoré à l’époque. Se sentant coupable d’avoir survécu, sujet à des violentes crises de panique, son retour a été pénible et il s’est noyé dans l’alcool. Depuis, il utilise son don pour les jeux de cartes pour s’amuser. C’est là qu’il va rencontrer un énigmatique jeune homme Alex Daniels qui va perdre contre lui. Mais Alex qui est en réalité une jeune femme va surprendre une conversation inquiétante sur les intentions d’un homme de tuer Garrett. Elle va alors tenter de l’avertir sans découvrir sa couverture.
Ce roman est un pur bonheur qui présente bien peu de défauts. Si le fond de l’histoire est très triste et que le traumatisme de Garrett est profond et les ennuis d’Alex très sérieux, ce n’est pas du tout un récit mélancolique et sombre qui s’offre à nous mais une superbe histoire d’amour qui se déroule devant nous sous la plume d’une auteure qui a un talent fou pour évoquer ses personnages et elurs sentiments. Parfois, certaines histoires d’amour paraissent subites et superficielles. Ici, il n’en est rien, nous voyons les deux héros tomber amoureux l’un de l’autre lors de scènes intelligentes et lors d’échanges de dialogues intelligents et amusants.
Car, et c’est un peu une surprise, l’atmosphère s’allège assez souvent pour montrer des héros généreux, qui dépassent leurs problèmes pour parler et la cour assidue que fait Garrett à Alex est charmante et délicieuse, pleine de bons mots et de tendresse. Les deux héros sont parfaits, décrits avec un grand soin, sous leurs facettes multiples. Ils ne sont pas parfaits mais tous deux sont généreux à leur façon et l’envie d’aider Garrett que ressent Alex est profondément émouvante car elle n’hésite jamais alors à se mettre en danger. C’est une très belle relation simple, lumineuse et qu’il faut souligner.
N’oublions pas l’intrigue, réussie car le danger rôde autour de Garrett et si parfois il se fait oublier, il est bien présent, ne révélant ses causes qu’en toute fin de livre.
Ajoutons un couple secondaire charmant, la jeune sœur de Garrett et son époux, son meilleur ami qui joue un rôle important et dont nous finissons par croire qu’elle a déjà été racontée dans un précédent roman tellement il y a d’allusions à leur passé. Il n’en est rien mais l’auteure pourrait y revenir sans problème tellement les personnages sont sympathiques et riches.
Victoria Morgan entre tout de suite dans le groupe des excellentes auteures de romance historique. Tout sonne juste dans ce livre soigné, bien écrit qui choisit de plus une période un moins visitée que la Régence. Sans nul doute, une auteure à suivre.
October 17, 2013
I’ve been telling myself lately to read more new-to-me authors, so I finally followed through. This is my intro to Victoria Morgan and this is her debut book. Sounds like the perfect pairing.
However, while this book is beautifully written – Ms. Morgan makes you feel and see her scenes one after the other – and the characters are likable, I find the story slows down too often, and it took me much longer to read than normal. That being said, there are wonderful moments throughout and I enjoyed watching Garrett and Alexandra fall in love.
The beginning of this story is fun, albeit everything is on the line for Alex. She’s disguised herself as a gentleman and is once again sitting at the gaming tables where she plans to put her the learning at her father’s knee into action. She knows her cards and knows how to win. What she never sees coming is the man who has the same mindset and who doesn’t lose. Even in this case. When Alex loses what she can’t afford, knowing what to do next in life is beyond her.
But Garrett Sinclair, the Earl of Kendall, who usually has no qualms about taking someone’s money, especially someone gambling more than they can afford to lose, for some reason has second thoughts when taking money from the young man whose vulnerability is there for the world to see. Returning the man’s money is his good deed for the night, something to forget and move on.
Fate, however, is taking a step to throw Garrett and Alex into each other’s lives. At this same party, Alex overhears a murder plot against Garrett. She can’t just walk away and let a man die. So she goes to Garrett to tell him what she – he knows, even entering into a pact to help Garrett find the plotters. Thus, the more time they spend together is what Garrett needs to eventually realize that Alex is not a man but a lovely woman with secrets. I like that it doesn’t take long for that to happen. I prefer most of this type of story to be between the hero and heroine as a man and a woman and not a cat-and-mouse game to keep an identity secret for most of the book.
It’s after this, though, where the pacing of the book takes a few hits. Between learning about Alexandra’s forced betrothal by her uncle, both of which she wants nothing to do with, and Garrett’s horrible stint in the Crimean War – and both stories are emotional and heart wrenching – even the supposed hunt for the would-be murderer is slow in coming. In fact, the story only gains momentum near the end of the book when they finally make their way back to town to flush the culprit out. I wish more would have happened during the time at Garrett’s – either between them or danger from the killer.
Despite that, I like these two characters a lot. Garrett gets his life back on track after his time in a downward spiral after returning from the war, loaded with guilt and disgust. When he unloads what really happened during the Charge of the Light Brigade, you feel as though you’re right in the middle of the huge mess it turned out to be. Alexandra is a strong heroine, independent to the core, and uses her brain as well as her emotions just as a woman should.
Ms. Morgan can only grow from here on out as a writer, and, honestly, she doesn’t have far to go. She writes beautifully already, and I look forward to whatever she has to offer in the future.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
However, while this book is beautifully written – Ms. Morgan makes you feel and see her scenes one after the other – and the characters are likable, I find the story slows down too often, and it took me much longer to read than normal. That being said, there are wonderful moments throughout and I enjoyed watching Garrett and Alexandra fall in love.
The beginning of this story is fun, albeit everything is on the line for Alex. She’s disguised herself as a gentleman and is once again sitting at the gaming tables where she plans to put her the learning at her father’s knee into action. She knows her cards and knows how to win. What she never sees coming is the man who has the same mindset and who doesn’t lose. Even in this case. When Alex loses what she can’t afford, knowing what to do next in life is beyond her.
But Garrett Sinclair, the Earl of Kendall, who usually has no qualms about taking someone’s money, especially someone gambling more than they can afford to lose, for some reason has second thoughts when taking money from the young man whose vulnerability is there for the world to see. Returning the man’s money is his good deed for the night, something to forget and move on.
Fate, however, is taking a step to throw Garrett and Alex into each other’s lives. At this same party, Alex overhears a murder plot against Garrett. She can’t just walk away and let a man die. So she goes to Garrett to tell him what she – he knows, even entering into a pact to help Garrett find the plotters. Thus, the more time they spend together is what Garrett needs to eventually realize that Alex is not a man but a lovely woman with secrets. I like that it doesn’t take long for that to happen. I prefer most of this type of story to be between the hero and heroine as a man and a woman and not a cat-and-mouse game to keep an identity secret for most of the book.
It’s after this, though, where the pacing of the book takes a few hits. Between learning about Alexandra’s forced betrothal by her uncle, both of which she wants nothing to do with, and Garrett’s horrible stint in the Crimean War – and both stories are emotional and heart wrenching – even the supposed hunt for the would-be murderer is slow in coming. In fact, the story only gains momentum near the end of the book when they finally make their way back to town to flush the culprit out. I wish more would have happened during the time at Garrett’s – either between them or danger from the killer.
Despite that, I like these two characters a lot. Garrett gets his life back on track after his time in a downward spiral after returning from the war, loaded with guilt and disgust. When he unloads what really happened during the Charge of the Light Brigade, you feel as though you’re right in the middle of the huge mess it turned out to be. Alexandra is a strong heroine, independent to the core, and uses her brain as well as her emotions just as a woman should.
Ms. Morgan can only grow from here on out as a writer, and, honestly, she doesn’t have far to go. She writes beautifully already, and I look forward to whatever she has to offer in the future.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
January 25, 2014
http://leslecturesdeveralice.blogspot...
Plutôt apprécié !
J'étais un peu dubitative à la lecture des premiers chapitres, sans raison particulière, à vrai dire, et je n'aime pas cette impression de me montrer injuste avec un roman, qui, à priori, m'attire. Sans pouvoir non plus mettre précisément le doigt sur le hic.
Le background historique? Oui, on y croit, surtout avec les réminiscences du héros sur la désastreuse bataille de Balaklava, traitée avec justesse et humanité. Mais , à part l'aisance des héros à cheval et leur utilisation des voitures à attelages, je n'ai pas réussi à vraiment me sentir immergée dans l'époque.
La relation entre eux? Oui, mais le prétexte initial m'a semblé un rien tiré par les cheveux, et le côté volontairement mystérieux d'Alex m'a un peu agacée. De même ses discours intérieurs aussi vite reniés par ses actes ("No touching" et hop, des embrassades embrasées !). Il m'a semblé aussi que Kendall montait assez vite en grade dans l'estime de la jeune femme. Et les aspects psychologiques m'ont paru parfois maladroitement surfaits, ou plaqués, ou déjà vus et revus. A mon avis, tout ça manquait de quelque subtilité, ce qui n'empêche pas que certaines pages restent fraîches et délicieuses. Kendall fait, par moments, chien fou, abrupt et maladroit, bien qu'il soit la plupart du temps présenté comme la crème du viril aristocrate guerrier. J'ai adoré son humour ainsi que sa façon de toujours vouloir prendre le taureau par les cornes -en l'occurrence Alex, qu'il ne cesse de bousculer dans des bouche-à-bouche ardents, provocateur un rien rigolard et très sensuel.
L'intrigue? Oui, on a un peu de suspens, mais on perd le fil par moments, du coup il se détend en arrière-plan, si bien, que, comme les héros, on passe quelques chapitres à oublier le danger.
Du rythme? Oui, aussi. Surtout dans la deuxième partie, que j'ai clairement préférée, peut-être à cause de la présence de Kit, la sœur de Kendall, qui insuffle un sacré souffle à l'ensemble des scènes où elle apparaît. Même chose pour Brandon, son époux et meilleur ami de Kendall. Les dialogues, serrés et incisifs, donnent aussi beaucoup de tenue à l'ensemble, avec de l'humour, du panache et d'attendrissants atermoiements. C'est sûr, cette nouvelle auteur maîtrise vraiment bien ses échanges.
Je serai très très curieuse de lire son second roman attendu pour décembre, dont les quelques pages proposées à la fin de celui-ci évoquent d'ores et déjà un joli futur moment de lecture.
Plutôt apprécié !
J'étais un peu dubitative à la lecture des premiers chapitres, sans raison particulière, à vrai dire, et je n'aime pas cette impression de me montrer injuste avec un roman, qui, à priori, m'attire. Sans pouvoir non plus mettre précisément le doigt sur le hic.
Le background historique? Oui, on y croit, surtout avec les réminiscences du héros sur la désastreuse bataille de Balaklava, traitée avec justesse et humanité. Mais , à part l'aisance des héros à cheval et leur utilisation des voitures à attelages, je n'ai pas réussi à vraiment me sentir immergée dans l'époque.
La relation entre eux? Oui, mais le prétexte initial m'a semblé un rien tiré par les cheveux, et le côté volontairement mystérieux d'Alex m'a un peu agacée. De même ses discours intérieurs aussi vite reniés par ses actes ("No touching" et hop, des embrassades embrasées !). Il m'a semblé aussi que Kendall montait assez vite en grade dans l'estime de la jeune femme. Et les aspects psychologiques m'ont paru parfois maladroitement surfaits, ou plaqués, ou déjà vus et revus. A mon avis, tout ça manquait de quelque subtilité, ce qui n'empêche pas que certaines pages restent fraîches et délicieuses. Kendall fait, par moments, chien fou, abrupt et maladroit, bien qu'il soit la plupart du temps présenté comme la crème du viril aristocrate guerrier. J'ai adoré son humour ainsi que sa façon de toujours vouloir prendre le taureau par les cornes -en l'occurrence Alex, qu'il ne cesse de bousculer dans des bouche-à-bouche ardents, provocateur un rien rigolard et très sensuel.
L'intrigue? Oui, on a un peu de suspens, mais on perd le fil par moments, du coup il se détend en arrière-plan, si bien, que, comme les héros, on passe quelques chapitres à oublier le danger.
Du rythme? Oui, aussi. Surtout dans la deuxième partie, que j'ai clairement préférée, peut-être à cause de la présence de Kit, la sœur de Kendall, qui insuffle un sacré souffle à l'ensemble des scènes où elle apparaît. Même chose pour Brandon, son époux et meilleur ami de Kendall. Les dialogues, serrés et incisifs, donnent aussi beaucoup de tenue à l'ensemble, avec de l'humour, du panache et d'attendrissants atermoiements. C'est sûr, cette nouvelle auteur maîtrise vraiment bien ses échanges.
Je serai très très curieuse de lire son second roman attendu pour décembre, dont les quelques pages proposées à la fin de celui-ci évoquent d'ores et déjà un joli futur moment de lecture.
November 9, 2015
This is more of a B- read for me, so 3.5 stars. Heroines disguised as men very rarely work for me. It's just not my pet trope. However, in this case, Victoria Morgan mostly pulls it off. Even though it's easy to see through Alexandra Langdon's disguise, the author sets up her plight so well that a reader will likely want to get deep into the story rather than ask lots of questions.
As the book opens, we know that Alexandra is in dire straits financially, and that she has fled a tyrannical uncle. The why and how of all this remains mysterious for quite a bit, and that's part of what kept me reading as Alex disguised herself as a young man so that she could enter the world of high stakes gambling. Alex needs the money desperately, but she gets more than she bargains for as she matches wits with Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall, and interrupts an attempt on his life.
Alexandra and Garret both caught my attention. We've seen the tortured hero before, but Morgan writes this one smashingly well. His anachronistic first name made me cringe repeatedly, but otherwise, I found myself totally pulled into his story. We don't often encounter the Crimean War in historical romance, and I loved seeing an author not only pick that setting, but make use of it in ways that run deeper than wallpaper.
Alexandra is mostly a likeable heroine as well,but I found that her backstory stayed a mystery for far too long. By the time all is revealed, it just felt anticlimactic. The villain of the piece seemed a bit unnecessary, too. Alex and Garrett's journey together was much better without the over-the-top crazy bad guy. And speaking of journeys together, the banter between these two is just wonderful.
As the book opens, we know that Alexandra is in dire straits financially, and that she has fled a tyrannical uncle. The why and how of all this remains mysterious for quite a bit, and that's part of what kept me reading as Alex disguised herself as a young man so that she could enter the world of high stakes gambling. Alex needs the money desperately, but she gets more than she bargains for as she matches wits with Garrett Sinclair, Earl of Kendall, and interrupts an attempt on his life.
Alexandra and Garret both caught my attention. We've seen the tortured hero before, but Morgan writes this one smashingly well. His anachronistic first name made me cringe repeatedly, but otherwise, I found myself totally pulled into his story. We don't often encounter the Crimean War in historical romance, and I loved seeing an author not only pick that setting, but make use of it in ways that run deeper than wallpaper.
Alexandra is mostly a likeable heroine as well,but I found that her backstory stayed a mystery for far too long. By the time all is revealed, it just felt anticlimactic. The villain of the piece seemed a bit unnecessary, too. Alex and Garrett's journey together was much better without the over-the-top crazy bad guy. And speaking of journeys together, the banter between these two is just wonderful.
June 26, 2013
A historical romance of two people who fall in love and try to save each other. Lady Alexandra Langdon disguises herself as a man to get into the gaming tables to win big. Her chances are against her when Captain Garrett Sinclair, the Earl of Kendall, shows up and wins the big hand. When hiding to cool off, Alex overhears two men speaking about arranging the murder of Garrett. Should she go to him and risk losing her cover, or should she pretend she never heard a thing? She ultimately decides to approach the unapproachable Garrett to warn him. When their two worlds collide, they get on each others nerves and drive each other crazy, but the two have to work together to figure out who is behind trying to kill Garrett. As tension grows, so does a spark between them, but they both have a past full of baggage. Can they resist their urges to be together or will they become too distracted to deal with the threat on Garrett's life?
I enjoyed this book. Alex is a very independent woman who will do anything to take care of herself and see that she doesn't owe anybody anything. Garrett has a soiled reputation of being a drunk and of running around with women, but he is also a wounded war hero. I like how Alex isn't easily swooned by Garrett. She is determined to take care of herself and she isn't won over by gifts. Garrett is persistent and though he can be annoying at times, he has Alex's best interested at heart. I also like how Alex isn't afraid to speak up for herself or on the behalf of those she cares about.
I received a copy of this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I enjoyed this book. Alex is a very independent woman who will do anything to take care of herself and see that she doesn't owe anybody anything. Garrett has a soiled reputation of being a drunk and of running around with women, but he is also a wounded war hero. I like how Alex isn't easily swooned by Garrett. She is determined to take care of herself and she isn't won over by gifts. Garrett is persistent and though he can be annoying at times, he has Alex's best interested at heart. I also like how Alex isn't afraid to speak up for herself or on the behalf of those she cares about.
I received a copy of this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
November 17, 2013
For the Love of a Soldier, Victoria Morgan - I really wanted to like this book and for the first fifty pages I was so sure it was a winner. Unfortunately, the tone was too off-putting for me as the novel seemed unsure if it was a comedy or a tragedy. The soldier/hero suffers from mental trauma after the war and has difficulty reintegrating into society, while the heroine is on the run from her uncle and is living in dire poverty and desperation. Garrett and Alexandra forge an alliance to track down a threat on his life while they grapple with their demons and struggle to help each other. At the same time, there is light-hearted banter that emerges awkwardly throughout some very serious moments. The hero also inappropriately hits on the heroine at the oddest moments, including a life-and-death chase scene as well as a poignant scene when the heroine tries to explain the torture of starving. After trying to describe hunger pangs and the reality of being homeless and without food for long periods, the hero continues to lust after her slim figure. Yes, lack of food does help you stay skinny. I honestly just felt very frustrated trying to figure out if each scene was supposed to be humorous or sad, and now I'm irritated that it took me so long to plod through this one :(
March 25, 2013
I received this book for free through A First Reads Giveaway.
I thought the historical part of this novel was well written. There are believable connections to the Crimean War. I appreciate the author's research into the Battle of Balaclava and her treatment of the veteran returning from the front. The characters are well rounded, and though I could have used a little more background about the female protagonist, Alexandra, I connected with the story. The history is easily interwoven with the fictional plot line.
Although I realize this novel is characterized as a historical romance, there were some scenes that were a little too long and explicit for what I tend to read.
I liked the book, but I felt it was missing something. As I've written this review, I've flitted back and forth between three and four stars. It was a good, quick read, but for me the mark of a fantastic novel is that I'm left thinking about the characters and I'm hesitant to move on to a new story. Although I enjoyed it, I'm not sure it will stick with me like others that have become personal classics.
I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys historical romance and is looking for a good beach book this summer- interesting story, good read.
I thought the historical part of this novel was well written. There are believable connections to the Crimean War. I appreciate the author's research into the Battle of Balaclava and her treatment of the veteran returning from the front. The characters are well rounded, and though I could have used a little more background about the female protagonist, Alexandra, I connected with the story. The history is easily interwoven with the fictional plot line.
Although I realize this novel is characterized as a historical romance, there were some scenes that were a little too long and explicit for what I tend to read.
I liked the book, but I felt it was missing something. As I've written this review, I've flitted back and forth between three and four stars. It was a good, quick read, but for me the mark of a fantastic novel is that I'm left thinking about the characters and I'm hesitant to move on to a new story. Although I enjoyed it, I'm not sure it will stick with me like others that have become personal classics.
I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys historical romance and is looking for a good beach book this summer- interesting story, good read.
March 29, 2013
I was truly impressed with this inaugural novel by Victoria Morgan. In the process of reading this enjoyable historical romance, I learned some history about the Crimean War. Morgan creates two very likable and believable characters in Captain Garrett Sinclair, the Earl of Kendall, and Lady Alexandra Langdon alias Alex Daniels. Garrett is a survivor and veteran of the war, but comes home with both physical and emotional scars. He encounters Alex at a ball where she is impersonating a man, so that she can enter the gentleman's card room and hopefully win some money. She is destitute and starving and has pawned her last piece of jewelry so that she can join in the game. She loses to Garrett at cards, but he senses that she needs the money worse than him and refuses to take it. Before leaving the ball, she overhears a contract for Garrett's murder going down. She hastens to warn him and promises to help him find the culprits.
Thank you to Goodreads First Reads and Penguin Books for the gift of this great book and for introducing me to a new author whose works I will definitely be looking for in the future.
Thank you to Goodreads First Reads and Penguin Books for the gift of this great book and for introducing me to a new author whose works I will definitely be looking for in the future.
March 22, 2013
2.5 Stars
If I didn't know that this book was published in 2013, I would have wagered money that it was written in the late 1990's. Between the writing style and several cliched plot points, it seems dated. The heroine does a lot of "bucking" whenever the hero touches her soft folds. And he spends a lot of time thinking about the heat in his 'loins.' Is it just me? I thought those words had been retired from new romances.
But... despite the 'old skool' feel to this book, it's not without its merits. There are some sweet scenes between the hero and heroine that I enjoyed. I liked the inclusion of information about the war and his PTSD. The H/H are both perfectly likable and while the plot is incredibly predictable, it doesn't suffer from huge gaps in logic.
I might have rated this book higher if the writing style had been more to my liking (it wasn't very fluid and some of the dialogue was clunky) and the plot less cliched. The ending is completely skippable once the villain makes himself known.
If I didn't know that this book was published in 2013, I would have wagered money that it was written in the late 1990's. Between the writing style and several cliched plot points, it seems dated. The heroine does a lot of "bucking" whenever the hero touches her soft folds. And he spends a lot of time thinking about the heat in his 'loins.' Is it just me? I thought those words had been retired from new romances.
But... despite the 'old skool' feel to this book, it's not without its merits. There are some sweet scenes between the hero and heroine that I enjoyed. I liked the inclusion of information about the war and his PTSD. The H/H are both perfectly likable and while the plot is incredibly predictable, it doesn't suffer from huge gaps in logic.
I might have rated this book higher if the writing style had been more to my liking (it wasn't very fluid and some of the dialogue was clunky) and the plot less cliched. The ending is completely skippable once the villain makes himself known.
Read
May 3, 2013Lady Alexandra Langdon, a well-born but impoverished young woman, desperately needs money. To get it, she decides to dress up as a man and gamble. But things don't work as planned, when notorious war hero Garrett Sinclair, the Earl of Kendall joins the table and wins all of Alex's money. Kendall is not one to ruin a young man, though, and seeing Alex blanch, he returns her money. Which is why, when she later accidentally overhears two men plotting to kill him, she feels obliged to warn him.
I just didn't connect with the writing, and the lack of logic in Kendall's actions annoyed me. Instead of being grateful to Alex, he's suspicious and accusatory. Even after realising he is a respectable she, that she has got injured basically saving his life, and that she's in a very vulnerable economic situation, he's all smarmy innuendo and aggressively tries to get her to bed even though she has said she does not want it. I did not like this man, and the writing didn't inspire me to spend any more time with him.
MY GRADE: A DNF.
I just didn't connect with the writing, and the lack of logic in Kendall's actions annoyed me. Instead of being grateful to Alex, he's suspicious and accusatory. Even after realising he is a respectable she, that she has got injured basically saving his life, and that she's in a very vulnerable economic situation, he's all smarmy innuendo and aggressively tries to get her to bed even though she has said she does not want it. I did not like this man, and the writing didn't inspire me to spend any more time with him.
MY GRADE: A DNF.
February 25, 2013
Lady Alexandra is in dire straits. She’s taken her last few pounds and have disguised herself as a man to hit the gambling tables to try and raise her funds. When her night takes a turn for the worst, Garrett Sinclair offers her a much needed break. When Alex then hears of a plot against his life, she can do no less than warn him of the devious plot. Because she’s the only witness to the deception Garrett knows that he can’t let her go so these two new acquaintances are off on an adventure defending against murders and an attraction that they can’t fight. I loved how they were both able to see past the outward appearances and find the special inside. I liked that this story was not just lighthearted romp, it tackled some pretty serious issues like PTSD. This was a really good introduction to author Victoria Morgan and I’m excited to try her next book!
June 5, 2013
ZZZZzzzzzzz....
The prose was awkward (for example, the author uses the names of her characters as a subject way too often in the same paragraph and it makes her prose clunky and amateurish). I've seen worse and that in itself wouldn't have made me bail but I just couldn't get into the story. It almost put me to sleep everytime I tried to pick up the book.
The potential for a great story was there but the execution was the book's stumbling block for this reader.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews