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Salt Hendon #2
Salt Redux
Jane and Salt—four years of Happily Ever After
Sir Antony Templestowe—four years of Exile
Lady Caroline—four years of Heartache
Diana St. John—four years plotting Revenge
The time has come...
How does a brother cope with life knowing his sister is a murderess? How can a nobleman have the life he has always wanted when a lurking evil consumes his thoughts and haunts his dreams? What will it take for good to triumph over evil? For readers who enjoyed Salt Bride, the story continues…
Sir Antony Templestowe—four years of Exile
Lady Caroline—four years of Heartache
Diana St. John—four years plotting Revenge
The time has come...
How does a brother cope with life knowing his sister is a murderess? How can a nobleman have the life he has always wanted when a lurking evil consumes his thoughts and haunts his dreams? What will it take for good to triumph over evil? For readers who enjoyed Salt Bride, the story continues…
Audible Audio
First published March 9, 2013
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321 people want to read
About the author
Lucinda Brant
41 books495 followersHello! I'm a history geek who loves the 18th Century!
I write about families, creating worlds that are full of history, heart, and Happily Ever Afters. When I'm not in my writing cave in the 1700s I live in the middle of a koala reserve, so the neighbors are cute and cuddly and sleep all day!
I write because I must, and I write from the heart, and only what I love to read.
My books have been on the New York Times, USA Today, Amazon, and Audible bestseller lists, and have won numerous awards. All are available as audiobooks narrated by British actors Alex Wyndham, Mary Jane Wells and Matthew Lloyd Davies, and voice talent Marian Hussey. My books are also available in translation— French, German, Italian, and Japanese languages. I love to hear from my readers.
I write about families, creating worlds that are full of history, heart, and Happily Ever Afters. When I'm not in my writing cave in the 1700s I live in the middle of a koala reserve, so the neighbors are cute and cuddly and sleep all day!
I write because I must, and I write from the heart, and only what I love to read.
My books have been on the New York Times, USA Today, Amazon, and Audible bestseller lists, and have won numerous awards. All are available as audiobooks narrated by British actors Alex Wyndham, Mary Jane Wells and Matthew Lloyd Davies, and voice talent Marian Hussey. My books are also available in translation— French, German, Italian, and Japanese languages. I love to hear from my readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
May 5, 2019
A few months ago, I noticed that some of my Goodreads friends were reading and loving this book (and its predecessor Salt Bride: A Georgian Historical Romance), which combines my two favorite fiction genres – historical romance and mystery. So when the chance came to review this audiobook, I eagerly jumped in, and I have now become a huge Lucinda Brant fan.
Salt Bride featured the Magnus Sinclair, fifth Earl of Salt Hendon, and his reluctant bride, Jane Despard. They were plagued by the evil machinations of Salt’s cousin Diana, Lady St. John, a widow whose son is Salt’s heir, and a more diabolical villainess would be hard to imagine. Her interference kept Salt and Jane apart for four years, and she was determined to ruin their marriage. In the end, she was carried away, kicking and screaming in the hands of burly footmen, to private imprisonment in a far away Welsh castle.
Lord Salt’s closest friend is Diana’s brother, Sir Antony Templestowe. After Diana’s disgrace, Tony took himself off to St. Petersburg, where he has overcome his fondness for the bottle and become a successful diplomat. Four years later, however, Diana has escaped and Tony rushes back to London to find her. She’s hiding in plain sight at Antony’s townhouse, telling everyone that she has been touring the Continent and running up bills on Tony’s credit. She has engaged a “companion” and planted a spy in Salt’s home, both of whom rather credulously believe that Diana is the true Countess of Salt Hendon and Jane is a brazen usurper. With their help, she plans to pull off an intricate plan to make herself personally and politically indispensible to Salt.
The romance here, which is really secondary to the intrigue, involves Tony and Salt’s younger sister, Lady Caroline Aldershot. They were in love before Tony went away, but his drink-fueled outrageous behavior and Caroline’s immaturity kept them apart. Caroline is widowed after being unhappily married to another man. Tony wastes no time in proposing marriage and she turns him down in the classic “I’m not worthy” style of a romance heroine, but you know that won’t last. Tony makes for an incredibly appealing hero, but I found Caro just a tad annoying. Nevertheless, their love story is engaging.
The book largely revolves around Diana's plans for revenge, as Tony and Salt try to get her out of the way without causing a scandal that would expose Diana's heinous crimes and forever taint both of their families. Ending her life would be the easiest way, and well deserved, but neither one has the stomach for that. It would be spoilerish to go further into the details of the plot, and I'm not sure that I have enough space in this review to sum it all up anyway. It's a complex story.
Lucinda Brant is a very good storyteller, and this the tale is multi-layered with threads from the past brought seamlessly into the present. The writing is excellent, albeit occasionally interspersed with modernisms. Her impressive knowledge of the Georgian era and her attention to detail make the people and places come vividly into focus. The characters' clothing, their houses, and their surroundings are lushly described. Her description of the gifts Tony brings back from Russia is so exquisite that the reader longs to see these treasures. Well – just visit Brant's Pinterest page and there they are! Many authors are supplementing their books with Pinterest images these days, but Brant's page is the best that I've encountered.
Marian Hussey, a new-to-me narrator, does an excellent job. Her narrative voice is low and quite cultured, but she very ably portrays men and women of all ages and classes. She especially excels in voicing the vile Diana, veering between her persona as a respectable society widow and the privately expressed hatred that reveals her to be a true sociopath. When the action gets almost unbearably suspenseful, she maintains an even pace and does not use her voice to add unnecessarily to the drama.
There are so many things that I loved about this book that I'll just have to give a short list. There is Tony's obsession with tea and his insistence upon following his own elaborate brewing ritual, along with his platoon of Russian-speaking servants whose job is not only to serve but to keep him from succumbing to the siren call of wine. Caroline tries to fill the empty spot in her heart with devotion to her young step-daughter as well as her varied menagerie of pets. Salt and Jane and their children do not just make cameo appearances, as happens in many sequels, but are present throughout and integral to the story. Tony and Salt are men of their time, but their sincere, often halting, efforts to rebuilt their life-long friendship and protect their families are touching. But really, Diana St. John somewhat steals the show. Her mixture of madness, intelligence, charm, and determination make her a walking time bomb ready to ruin the lives of anyone – man, woman, or child – who stands in her way.
I listened to this book before reading Salt Bride, but to fully appreciate the story I recommend that both be read in order. I don't know what to call the audiobook equivalent of a "page turner,” but Salt Reduxis exactly that.
Salt Bride featured the Magnus Sinclair, fifth Earl of Salt Hendon, and his reluctant bride, Jane Despard. They were plagued by the evil machinations of Salt’s cousin Diana, Lady St. John, a widow whose son is Salt’s heir, and a more diabolical villainess would be hard to imagine. Her interference kept Salt and Jane apart for four years, and she was determined to ruin their marriage. In the end, she was carried away, kicking and screaming in the hands of burly footmen, to private imprisonment in a far away Welsh castle.
Lord Salt’s closest friend is Diana’s brother, Sir Antony Templestowe. After Diana’s disgrace, Tony took himself off to St. Petersburg, where he has overcome his fondness for the bottle and become a successful diplomat. Four years later, however, Diana has escaped and Tony rushes back to London to find her. She’s hiding in plain sight at Antony’s townhouse, telling everyone that she has been touring the Continent and running up bills on Tony’s credit. She has engaged a “companion” and planted a spy in Salt’s home, both of whom rather credulously believe that Diana is the true Countess of Salt Hendon and Jane is a brazen usurper. With their help, she plans to pull off an intricate plan to make herself personally and politically indispensible to Salt.
The romance here, which is really secondary to the intrigue, involves Tony and Salt’s younger sister, Lady Caroline Aldershot. They were in love before Tony went away, but his drink-fueled outrageous behavior and Caroline’s immaturity kept them apart. Caroline is widowed after being unhappily married to another man. Tony wastes no time in proposing marriage and she turns him down in the classic “I’m not worthy” style of a romance heroine, but you know that won’t last. Tony makes for an incredibly appealing hero, but I found Caro just a tad annoying. Nevertheless, their love story is engaging.
The book largely revolves around Diana's plans for revenge, as Tony and Salt try to get her out of the way without causing a scandal that would expose Diana's heinous crimes and forever taint both of their families. Ending her life would be the easiest way, and well deserved, but neither one has the stomach for that. It would be spoilerish to go further into the details of the plot, and I'm not sure that I have enough space in this review to sum it all up anyway. It's a complex story.
Lucinda Brant is a very good storyteller, and this the tale is multi-layered with threads from the past brought seamlessly into the present. The writing is excellent, albeit occasionally interspersed with modernisms. Her impressive knowledge of the Georgian era and her attention to detail make the people and places come vividly into focus. The characters' clothing, their houses, and their surroundings are lushly described. Her description of the gifts Tony brings back from Russia is so exquisite that the reader longs to see these treasures. Well – just visit Brant's Pinterest page and there they are! Many authors are supplementing their books with Pinterest images these days, but Brant's page is the best that I've encountered.
Marian Hussey, a new-to-me narrator, does an excellent job. Her narrative voice is low and quite cultured, but she very ably portrays men and women of all ages and classes. She especially excels in voicing the vile Diana, veering between her persona as a respectable society widow and the privately expressed hatred that reveals her to be a true sociopath. When the action gets almost unbearably suspenseful, she maintains an even pace and does not use her voice to add unnecessarily to the drama.
There are so many things that I loved about this book that I'll just have to give a short list. There is Tony's obsession with tea and his insistence upon following his own elaborate brewing ritual, along with his platoon of Russian-speaking servants whose job is not only to serve but to keep him from succumbing to the siren call of wine. Caroline tries to fill the empty spot in her heart with devotion to her young step-daughter as well as her varied menagerie of pets. Salt and Jane and their children do not just make cameo appearances, as happens in many sequels, but are present throughout and integral to the story. Tony and Salt are men of their time, but their sincere, often halting, efforts to rebuilt their life-long friendship and protect their families are touching. But really, Diana St. John somewhat steals the show. Her mixture of madness, intelligence, charm, and determination make her a walking time bomb ready to ruin the lives of anyone – man, woman, or child – who stands in her way.
I listened to this book before reading Salt Bride, but to fully appreciate the story I recommend that both be read in order. I don't know what to call the audiobook equivalent of a "page turner,” but Salt Reduxis exactly that.
July 21, 2023
I was torn about how to rate this book and ended up with a 3* The writing was good and it held my interest so that was a 4*. BUT it really covered no new ground and was a rehash and continuation of the previous book. The best parts for the villain were written in the last book. The diabolical deeds planned here are never really fleshed out so that gets a 2*. There was material to work with it just didn't jell for me.
August 25, 2019
Good but not as good as Salt Bride, but another beautiful cover.
The evil succubus has escaped her imprisonment and her brother, the H in this book, is ready to contain her and make amends for mistakes he made when he went off the rails.
The H is a little beta but fairly complex and likable, and tries to outmaneuver his brilliant but insane sister. The evil sister is once again an evil mastermind with minions this time, but the dynamic between planning to catch her and the actual fait accompli is just not well executed. If you have what amounts to a serial killer who is willing to murder children is there ever going to come a time when you don’t have an eye on her? There are some other glaring plotholes that are hard to overcome, the big one is why didn’t they just clobber her over the head the minute they saw her.
The biggest issue for me is the heroine, Salt’s little sister. I despised her. I think Lucinda Brant was trying to create a wild and natural free spirit but she came across as a fickle witch. VERY fickle and very annoying. To paraphrase Boogenhagen, “Be happy the hero is happy.” Added minus is there is a distinct lack of passion between these long-pining lovers. The hero has more passion for preparing his Russian tea that is a substitute for alcohol than he has in the heroine’s charms.
I don’t know whether Brant rushed this but the end result felt a little undeveloped and incomplete.
The evil succubus has escaped her imprisonment and her brother, the H in this book, is ready to contain her and make amends for mistakes he made when he went off the rails.
The H is a little beta but fairly complex and likable, and tries to outmaneuver his brilliant but insane sister. The evil sister is once again an evil mastermind with minions this time, but the dynamic between planning to catch her and the actual fait accompli is just not well executed. If you have what amounts to a serial killer who is willing to murder children is there ever going to come a time when you don’t have an eye on her? There are some other glaring plotholes that are hard to overcome, the big one is why didn’t they just clobber her over the head the minute they saw her.
The biggest issue for me is the heroine, Salt’s little sister. I despised her. I think Lucinda Brant was trying to create a wild and natural free spirit but she came across as a fickle witch. VERY fickle and very annoying. To paraphrase Boogenhagen, “Be happy the hero is happy.” Added minus is there is a distinct lack of passion between these long-pining lovers. The hero has more passion for preparing his Russian tea that is a substitute for alcohol than he has in the heroine’s charms.
I don’t know whether Brant rushed this but the end result felt a little undeveloped and incomplete.
July 25, 2024
3.75*
Not as good as the first book but the momentum carries the reader over into this book.
This is actually a continuation book. As a standalone, it would rate barely a 3.
Because the whole story needs Salt and Jane (and the crazy b*tch) to complete the picture.
Poor, sweet Anthony and bad girl Caroline barely get their romance. At least, Anthony/Tony gets to play a vital role in slaying (actually slay is too strong a word for our gentle soul beta) the dragon-ess. But poor Caroline, the h is just a minor supporting character here. And, I am not sure I like how her 'character' got panned out!
Kids are too cute. Only to be expected of Salt and Jane to procreate superiorly and incessantly. :p
Anyhow, all loose ends get tied up neatly.
The complementary story 'Salt Angel' is tedium itself.
Big blocks of writing unrelieved by dialogue or spaces. I could not finish it.
Is it a novella or a teaser?
Not as good as the first book but the momentum carries the reader over into this book.
This is actually a continuation book. As a standalone, it would rate barely a 3.
Because the whole story needs Salt and Jane (and the crazy b*tch) to complete the picture.
Poor, sweet Anthony and bad girl Caroline barely get their romance. At least, Anthony/Tony gets to play a vital role in slaying (actually slay is too strong a word for our gentle soul beta) the dragon-ess. But poor Caroline, the h is just a minor supporting character here. And, I am not sure I like how her 'character' got panned out!
Kids are too cute. Only to be expected of Salt and Jane to procreate superiorly and incessantly. :p
Anyhow, all loose ends get tied up neatly.
The complementary story 'Salt Angel' is tedium itself.
Big blocks of writing unrelieved by dialogue or spaces. I could not finish it.
Is it a novella or a teaser?
January 21, 2016
I've been on a Lucinda Brant KICK. The last series I had to read was Salt Hendon. This is my last Lucinda Brant book until the new one and I'm already in the 5 stages of grief.
1. I'm in denial... There's no way I read them all! Surely I missed some? *checks Goodreads* No such luck.
2. Then anger at myself because I read them all so quickly. Why was there such a sense of urgency? I'm too impatient I scold myself.
3. I then bargained with myself. Since I flew through them so quickly, surely I missed a lot. I will allow myself to re-read all books but only if I promise to read slowly (Insert self satisfied smile). That should do it!
4. Then depression sets in because I realize re-reading is not the same, especially considering I read them all recently. I'm doomed until your next book is out. How will I go on? In my head I start singing Skeeter Davis - The End of the World. Surely that's the only explanation for how wretched I feel (Remove self satisfied smile).
5. Finally, acceptance. I reason that The Roxton's, Halsey's and Salt-Hendon's wouldn't want me to be depressed. They would want me to go on living life. I must cope until the next book.
1. I'm in denial... There's no way I read them all! Surely I missed some? *checks Goodreads* No such luck.
2. Then anger at myself because I read them all so quickly. Why was there such a sense of urgency? I'm too impatient I scold myself.
3. I then bargained with myself. Since I flew through them so quickly, surely I missed a lot. I will allow myself to re-read all books but only if I promise to read slowly (Insert self satisfied smile). That should do it!
4. Then depression sets in because I realize re-reading is not the same, especially considering I read them all recently. I'm doomed until your next book is out. How will I go on? In my head I start singing Skeeter Davis - The End of the World. Surely that's the only explanation for how wretched I feel (Remove self satisfied smile).
5. Finally, acceptance. I reason that The Roxton's, Halsey's and Salt-Hendon's wouldn't want me to be depressed. They would want me to go on living life. I must cope until the next book.
May 16, 2022
2022 Update
It’s still not as good.
When did I even write this original review? Sorry, bad GR etiquette, this was early days if I recall.
I have difficult admitting that Lucinda Brant is capable of stumbling but this was definitely a stumble. I don’t think the trajectory of this story was needed at all and I am surprised she did what she did. Her writing was even a little lacking. Ah well—even HR writers are human! She still has my loyalty.
It’s still not as good.
When did I even write this original review? Sorry, bad GR etiquette, this was early days if I recall.
I have difficult admitting that Lucinda Brant is capable of stumbling but this was definitely a stumble. I don’t think the trajectory of this story was needed at all and I am surprised she did what she did. Her writing was even a little lacking. Ah well—even HR writers are human! She still has my loyalty.
July 16, 2016
I suppose the book is fine but it has the same problems as the first book. I didn't find it particularly clever. It demands the reader suspend logic and accept something ridiculous as serious. I also found the villain as all force and no brain.
My main problem with this book is the villain. People keep talking about how clever and cunning she is but her plan hinges on people's honour and decorum. If they stray from that, her whole plan unravels. For her plan to work, she needs really dense people around her. In that light, she is clever...clever in comparison. There is no real deviousness to her villainy other than crazy evil. She is one dimensional in that respect. This is why when one wrench is thrown in her plan, it disassembles easily.
The book also has a lot of instances where the plot drives the characters. I think it is limiting in that respect since it calls for them to act in very contrived ways. I thought the big event that separated Caroline from Antony was beyond lame. He became an alcoholic after he discovered the depth of Diana's evil. In one of his alcoholic rants, he rants about how Jane is the perfect woman and how Caroline is a spoiled child. Again, these characters love each other so the manner in which they were torn apart came across as really contrived to me.
The writing is very shallow. It just comes across that way. Feelings such as love and devotion are referenced without really exploring what they are. For example, Antony has this familial duty to his crazy sister but never goes beyond explaining what their dynamic really is. Sure, she is the crazy older sister and he was the meek and obedient boy but never really explores anything deeper than that. It is like these characters came to life in their respective ages and didn't have any history. They were just given roles without it really being fleshed out. As a consequence, it felt hollow and once again, it is just another thing the reader has to accept if they want to continue reading. You'd think a dynamic of a crazy sister and lackey brother would have an origin story of some sort but it didn't really. I also found the dialogue in the writing so drawn out. People won't just come out what they need to say. It is very frustrating.
The story picks up four years after the first book. During that time, Antony was exiled to Russia after he had a drunken fight with Caroline. Antony threw suspicion on Salt's heir's paternity and Caroline impulsively lost her virginity while she was drunk. In those four years, Antony picked up his life as an ambassador and Caroline was married and then widowed. Antony returned to England after he found out about Diana's escape.
Diana had been plotting to kill Salt's children and wife. She figured that she can reinsert herself in his life as a shoulder to lean on during his grief. She employed a brutish woman as her right hand and she planted an impressionable girl as a mole in the Salt household.
Antony and Caroline reunite. Antony hires men to spy on Diana. Diana bullies the girl in harming the children. She finally acts during the masquerade and is caught by Caroline and then Antony. She burned in a fire. Antony marries Caroline.
My main problem with this book is the villain. People keep talking about how clever and cunning she is but her plan hinges on people's honour and decorum. If they stray from that, her whole plan unravels. For her plan to work, she needs really dense people around her. In that light, she is clever...clever in comparison. There is no real deviousness to her villainy other than crazy evil. She is one dimensional in that respect. This is why when one wrench is thrown in her plan, it disassembles easily.
The book also has a lot of instances where the plot drives the characters. I think it is limiting in that respect since it calls for them to act in very contrived ways. I thought the big event that separated Caroline from Antony was beyond lame. He became an alcoholic after he discovered the depth of Diana's evil. In one of his alcoholic rants, he rants about how Jane is the perfect woman and how Caroline is a spoiled child. Again, these characters love each other so the manner in which they were torn apart came across as really contrived to me.
The writing is very shallow. It just comes across that way. Feelings such as love and devotion are referenced without really exploring what they are. For example, Antony has this familial duty to his crazy sister but never goes beyond explaining what their dynamic really is. Sure, she is the crazy older sister and he was the meek and obedient boy but never really explores anything deeper than that. It is like these characters came to life in their respective ages and didn't have any history. They were just given roles without it really being fleshed out. As a consequence, it felt hollow and once again, it is just another thing the reader has to accept if they want to continue reading. You'd think a dynamic of a crazy sister and lackey brother would have an origin story of some sort but it didn't really. I also found the dialogue in the writing so drawn out. People won't just come out what they need to say. It is very frustrating.
The story picks up four years after the first book. During that time, Antony was exiled to Russia after he had a drunken fight with Caroline. Antony threw suspicion on Salt's heir's paternity and Caroline impulsively lost her virginity while she was drunk. In those four years, Antony picked up his life as an ambassador and Caroline was married and then widowed. Antony returned to England after he found out about Diana's escape.
Diana had been plotting to kill Salt's children and wife. She figured that she can reinsert herself in his life as a shoulder to lean on during his grief. She employed a brutish woman as her right hand and she planted an impressionable girl as a mole in the Salt household.
Antony and Caroline reunite. Antony hires men to spy on Diana. Diana bullies the girl in harming the children. She finally acts during the masquerade and is caught by Caroline and then Antony. She burned in a fire. Antony marries Caroline.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2014
This is a wonderful sequel to Salt Bride and Marian Hussey has done a wonderful job as narrator once again. The dastardly Diane St. John has escaped her luxurious 'prison' in Wales after using her wiles on the local populace. She has slipped further into madness, becoming even more plausible and wily in the way of very intelligent but craftily mentally ill people. She has convinced all about her, indeed even won their sympathy, that she is the true Countess of Salt Hendon and that Jane is a usurper who has bewitched the Earl. She manages to escape her confines through foul means and inveigles herself back into society, 'hiding in full view' at Anthony's London home, so much so, that by the time Salt and Anthony are back on the scene it is too late to remove her without causing a scandal that will rock their families for ever.
The return of Anthony from Russia and his meeting with Caro after four traumatic years is passionate and tender, both have to deal with events they would rather forget, but which they must confront before their relationship can move forward. Even so Anthony proposes to Caroline on first sight and although she doesn't refuse she doesn't accept either, ashamed of what she must disclose about the four preceding years. Anthony too must confess and this is where I have a slight niggle, his problem, which apparently he suffered from prior to his banishment to St.Petersburg, was not obvious to me in Salt Bride. It is an excellent premise, however, and one which I applaud Lucinda Brant for tackling, but given the magnitude of it, I would have thought it would have been apparent in the previous book. I can only assume Ms. Brant decided later to include this in the sequel, and it does work, at least for me, but it feels like an add on.
Diana is at her most despicable....cunning, evil and intent on grabbing the reins of Salt's political career, which she feels is her rightful role in his life. The lengths she is prepared to go to, to wreck Salt and Jane's love and happiness is unbelievable. Diana certainly dominates this story and Lucinda Brant has created an utterly detestable character whom we can only abhor and revile....she is also strangely fascinating and I can only say that she finally gets her just deserts.
Ms. Brant is a talented and classy storyteller, her descriptions of costume and surroundings are like a fine painting, vibrant, vivid and easy to visualise, a rare talent. Her research and knowledge of the history and politics of the day and also of Russia with it's very intricate customs and narrow minded views and treatment of it's subordinates is quite fascinating. I loved this novel, only the one tiny niggle but as it is such an excellent supposition and doesn't in any way detract from the story I must overlook it and award 5 stars for another captivating and superlative read. Footnote...I do feel that Anthony could also be suffering from OCD but that's just my opinion and he is a very hunky character even though he wears a wig!
The return of Anthony from Russia and his meeting with Caro after four traumatic years is passionate and tender, both have to deal with events they would rather forget, but which they must confront before their relationship can move forward. Even so Anthony proposes to Caroline on first sight and although she doesn't refuse she doesn't accept either, ashamed of what she must disclose about the four preceding years. Anthony too must confess and this is where I have a slight niggle, his problem, which apparently he suffered from prior to his banishment to St.Petersburg, was not obvious to me in Salt Bride. It is an excellent premise, however, and one which I applaud Lucinda Brant for tackling, but given the magnitude of it, I would have thought it would have been apparent in the previous book. I can only assume Ms. Brant decided later to include this in the sequel, and it does work, at least for me, but it feels like an add on.
Diana is at her most despicable....cunning, evil and intent on grabbing the reins of Salt's political career, which she feels is her rightful role in his life. The lengths she is prepared to go to, to wreck Salt and Jane's love and happiness is unbelievable. Diana certainly dominates this story and Lucinda Brant has created an utterly detestable character whom we can only abhor and revile....she is also strangely fascinating and I can only say that she finally gets her just deserts.
Ms. Brant is a talented and classy storyteller, her descriptions of costume and surroundings are like a fine painting, vibrant, vivid and easy to visualise, a rare talent. Her research and knowledge of the history and politics of the day and also of Russia with it's very intricate customs and narrow minded views and treatment of it's subordinates is quite fascinating. I loved this novel, only the one tiny niggle but as it is such an excellent supposition and doesn't in any way detract from the story I must overlook it and award 5 stars for another captivating and superlative read. Footnote...I do feel that Anthony could also be suffering from OCD but that's just my opinion and he is a very hunky character even though he wears a wig!
July 23, 2016
3.75 Story and Narration, because it's a continuation of the Family Saga. Not a lot of new ground was developed for the characters in this novel. The plot makes sense for the time period, get nut job Diana out of the public eye before she can execute her plan (This statement makes sense if you read the first in the series ... no spoilers here).
In a contemporary this plot would never work (avoid social scandal), my modern sensibilities often are at odds with this book. But when in doubt, I think this was the period of time they lived in.
Again not a lot of new ground, except Antony is definitely a man's man after giving up the drink. Much smarter than his conniving sister ever thought, my only disappointment is there was not enough Caroline/Antony interaction though lots of thoughts around the two but between them not enough considering it's their romance. But then again the suspense of what Lady Diana would do and how they would foil her plan was the main aspect of this novel.
Rating is high if you've read the first, more like a 3.25 should you read it as a stand alone.
Ended the series on a high note. Though I could see the author writing a romance for Tom/Kitty, though the main "villain" would not impact that story. So it would be a fresh plot which is best.
Author does a nice job, very, very Georgette Heyer even references "skirts" of frock coats which is what they were called in the day.
In a contemporary this plot would never work (avoid social scandal), my modern sensibilities often are at odds with this book. But when in doubt, I think this was the period of time they lived in.
Again not a lot of new ground, except Antony is definitely a man's man after giving up the drink. Much smarter than his conniving sister ever thought, my only disappointment is there was not enough Caroline/Antony interaction though lots of thoughts around the two but between them not enough considering it's their romance. But then again the suspense of what Lady Diana would do and how they would foil her plan was the main aspect of this novel.
Rating is high if you've read the first, more like a 3.25 should you read it as a stand alone.
Ended the series on a high note. Though I could see the author writing a romance for Tom/Kitty, though the main "villain" would not impact that story. So it would be a fresh plot which is best.
Author does a nice job, very, very Georgette Heyer even references "skirts" of frock coats which is what they were called in the day.
March 10, 2022
Seguito di La sposa di Salt Hendon, si conferma ai livelli del libro precedente, anche se, personalmente, preferisco lievemente La Sposa.
I protagonisti
Presenti anche altri protagonisti del primo libro.
Purtroppo ci sono sempre numerosi e fastidiosi refusi.
Chi ha apprezzato La Sposa di Salt Hendon, non potrà che apprezzare anche questo ^^
Quest’autrice mi piace e leggerò sicuramente altri suoi romanzi.
I protagonisti
Presenti anche altri protagonisti del primo libro.
Purtroppo ci sono sempre numerosi e fastidiosi refusi.
Chi ha apprezzato La Sposa di Salt Hendon, non potrà che apprezzare anche questo ^^
Quest’autrice mi piace e leggerò sicuramente altri suoi romanzi.
February 7, 2019
Predictable, more suspense than romance.
December 22, 2021
Wow! So glad I continued on with book 2 after falling for these characters in Salt Bride. Such a captivating story, wonderfully written, just couldn’t put it down. New-to-me author I’m thrilled to add to my favorites.
May 27, 2022
I liked this one as much as the previous one! Wish there were more to this series as I really loved these characters and this author's writing. Ms. Brant has plenty of other books in print, so I'll have to try them. Recommended.
November 16, 2015
I could not wait to listen to the rest of this series—it was that compelling!
This story works on two levels. One where we are still fascinated with the beautiful, intelligent Lady Diana St. John, who with her cunning and black heart is able to manipulate and twist events to coerce people to do her bidding. The second level involves Sir Antony, Lady Diana’s brother serving as ambassador to Russia, and Lady Caroline. Lady Caroline has suffered much since his departure (secretly loves him), and through her error in judgement and its lessons she has secrets in her past she wants to forget.
Lady Diana St. John was the villainous who escaped her banishment to return to her ‘rightful’ place beside Magnus Sinclair, Lord of Salt Hendon. Her actions and very character create an underlying tension and dark suspense which lurks in wait as Sir Antony and Lady Caroline’s story is established. She was such a lose canon in the first book of the series, the reader has no idea what to expect from her in the second. A delicious villainous, well-developed and one I loved to hate. Narrator Marian Hussey played her role impeccably; deceit simply rolled off her tongue. Lady Diana’s form of flattery with its sweet oily application could easily turn vindictive where I wasn’t sure she could keep control, so close she was to physical and verbal violence. A wonderful character all around, both in the author’s mind and Ms. Hussey’s interpretive role.
Fortunately, Sir Antony made something of himself while in St. Petersburg, no longer the habitual drunk. He returned to England forthwith when hearing of Lady Diana’s escape. He had to somehow contain her, protect her children, and those of Magnus and Jane. He had to make it right. Yet, he loved his sister. Although seeing her diabolical side, he admired her intelligence and beauty. Lady Diana had one aim--to assist Lord Salt in his political career, by his side and bask in the light of his greatness.
This story focuses on beautiful Lord Sinclair’s sister, Caroline. Full of spirit, a Regency animal lover, she had learned some very big lessons in her young life, but no longer the pure, virginal woman who at age 15 had told Antony she was going to marry him. She and Sir Antony banter quite humorously, providing much-needed levity to the dark intrigues just below the surface created by the machinations of Lady Diana. Lady Caroline is now a widow, with past errors in judgement she fears to hope to feel Sir Antony’s arms enfold her or if she even has the right.
Narrator Marian Hussey, with her distinct storytelling, gave much to this already intriguing book. This was one of those books you don’t want to stop listening to, grabbing you hook, line and sinker. I would highly recommend the series in audio.
This story works on two levels. One where we are still fascinated with the beautiful, intelligent Lady Diana St. John, who with her cunning and black heart is able to manipulate and twist events to coerce people to do her bidding. The second level involves Sir Antony, Lady Diana’s brother serving as ambassador to Russia, and Lady Caroline. Lady Caroline has suffered much since his departure (secretly loves him), and through her error in judgement and its lessons she has secrets in her past she wants to forget.
Lady Diana St. John was the villainous who escaped her banishment to return to her ‘rightful’ place beside Magnus Sinclair, Lord of Salt Hendon. Her actions and very character create an underlying tension and dark suspense which lurks in wait as Sir Antony and Lady Caroline’s story is established. She was such a lose canon in the first book of the series, the reader has no idea what to expect from her in the second. A delicious villainous, well-developed and one I loved to hate. Narrator Marian Hussey played her role impeccably; deceit simply rolled off her tongue. Lady Diana’s form of flattery with its sweet oily application could easily turn vindictive where I wasn’t sure she could keep control, so close she was to physical and verbal violence. A wonderful character all around, both in the author’s mind and Ms. Hussey’s interpretive role.
Fortunately, Sir Antony made something of himself while in St. Petersburg, no longer the habitual drunk. He returned to England forthwith when hearing of Lady Diana’s escape. He had to somehow contain her, protect her children, and those of Magnus and Jane. He had to make it right. Yet, he loved his sister. Although seeing her diabolical side, he admired her intelligence and beauty. Lady Diana had one aim--to assist Lord Salt in his political career, by his side and bask in the light of his greatness.
This story focuses on beautiful Lord Sinclair’s sister, Caroline. Full of spirit, a Regency animal lover, she had learned some very big lessons in her young life, but no longer the pure, virginal woman who at age 15 had told Antony she was going to marry him. She and Sir Antony banter quite humorously, providing much-needed levity to the dark intrigues just below the surface created by the machinations of Lady Diana. Lady Caroline is now a widow, with past errors in judgement she fears to hope to feel Sir Antony’s arms enfold her or if she even has the right.
Narrator Marian Hussey, with her distinct storytelling, gave much to this already intriguing book. This was one of those books you don’t want to stop listening to, grabbing you hook, line and sinker. I would highly recommend the series in audio.
March 21, 2013
Salt Redux is the second book in the Salt Hendon series, following on the loves and lives of the Earl of Salt Hendon and his Countess, the beautiful Jane. In the four years since their marriage, much has happened. Love and three children later, they think that happiness eternal is theirs and nothing can destroy their idyllic life. The earl’s cousin, Sir Antony Templestowe, has endured four years of exile in Russia, in the guise of a diplomatic posting. Battling with his addictions, he has come to terms with himself, and his undying love for the earl’s sister, Lady Caroline. Lady Diana St. John, the earl’s nemesis, and a murderess, has been carefully incarcerated in a remote castle in Wales as the only way to prevent her previous sins from being discovered by society, and to prevent her from committing further wickedness. This is possible because Lady Diana is, unfortunately, quite mad. She is obsessed with becoming the true Countess of Salt Hendon, and dislodging the woman she considers the usurper to her title, that is Jane. She has had four years of careful scheming and preparation. Once she escapes imprisonment by pure Machiavellian ingenuity and diabolical plotting, Diana arrives back in their lives with plans of her own, plans that include death and destruction. Will she succeed, and will happiness and love be restored or ruined?
Lucinda Brant never fails to please readers of historical romance with her lavish portrayal of her niche arena: the Georgian era. Such are the minute and careful details that the era itself becomes almost like a character in the book. However, the characters themselves tug at the heartstrings with their intense feelings: love, anguish, desire, and drama abound as various sub-plots play out in a background to the main story. The richness of the prose and the attention to all that drives the story make this a wonderful read. Tension mounts as Lady Diana proceeds with her plot to unseat Jane. The story is multi-layered and threads from the past are seamlessly woven into current events. Salt Bride was the first Lucinda Brant book I reviewed and I loved it. What a pleasure to revisit ‘old friends’ in this sequel. Although readers can enjoy the book as a stand-alone, I would recommend their reading Salt Bride first to fully appreciate the poignant aspect of the earl and his bride’s love story from the start. Highly recommended.
First reviewed for Readers Favorite
Lucinda Brant never fails to please readers of historical romance with her lavish portrayal of her niche arena: the Georgian era. Such are the minute and careful details that the era itself becomes almost like a character in the book. However, the characters themselves tug at the heartstrings with their intense feelings: love, anguish, desire, and drama abound as various sub-plots play out in a background to the main story. The richness of the prose and the attention to all that drives the story make this a wonderful read. Tension mounts as Lady Diana proceeds with her plot to unseat Jane. The story is multi-layered and threads from the past are seamlessly woven into current events. Salt Bride was the first Lucinda Brant book I reviewed and I loved it. What a pleasure to revisit ‘old friends’ in this sequel. Although readers can enjoy the book as a stand-alone, I would recommend their reading Salt Bride first to fully appreciate the poignant aspect of the earl and his bride’s love story from the start. Highly recommended.
First reviewed for Readers Favorite
June 18, 2016
Salt Redux is the second book in the Salt Hendon series by Lucinda Brant. You don't need to have read the first book to understand what is going on in this book. I do recommend that you do read it though. Firstly because the book is truly magnificent, and secondly because to understand the true evil of Diana St John, and to appreciate just how insane she is, you really should read about her from the very start.
This book is set 4 years after Diana's evil deeds are stopped and she is locked away in Harlech Castle in Wales. In that time she has been plotting revenge, her escape and ultimately taking what she believes is her rightful place beside Lord Salt as his countess.
While she has been plotting away, Jane and Salt have been leading a love filled life. Having children and being a happy family. There horror when they find out that Diana has escaped her prison brings forth a huge change in their lives.
Along side their doing their best to make sure Diana does no harm to them and their children, and plotting to capture her once again, there is also the budding romance between Diana's brother, Anthony, back from exile, and Caroline the woman who has loved him since she was a young girl and was heartbroken when his behaviour got him exiled. Anthony is a much changed man since he left, but his history shames him. Caroline also has secrets she is ashamed of. Both of them are worried to reveal those secrets to each other, but they must if they are to have any future together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The romantic side was light hearted and fun which was a very necessary distraction from the darkness involving Diana and her insane obsession with murdering Jane and her children. I couldn't decide if I should hate the woman or pity her, either way though, I had my heart in my throat when her evil plans seemed to be coming to fruition.
Lucinda Brant is an amazing author, and this book like all of hers have you fully involved in the characters lives. I couldn't read this fast enough to find how it would end. I definitely recommend it, especially if you enjoy your books with both romance and intrigue.
This book is set 4 years after Diana's evil deeds are stopped and she is locked away in Harlech Castle in Wales. In that time she has been plotting revenge, her escape and ultimately taking what she believes is her rightful place beside Lord Salt as his countess.
While she has been plotting away, Jane and Salt have been leading a love filled life. Having children and being a happy family. There horror when they find out that Diana has escaped her prison brings forth a huge change in their lives.
Along side their doing their best to make sure Diana does no harm to them and their children, and plotting to capture her once again, there is also the budding romance between Diana's brother, Anthony, back from exile, and Caroline the woman who has loved him since she was a young girl and was heartbroken when his behaviour got him exiled. Anthony is a much changed man since he left, but his history shames him. Caroline also has secrets she is ashamed of. Both of them are worried to reveal those secrets to each other, but they must if they are to have any future together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The romantic side was light hearted and fun which was a very necessary distraction from the darkness involving Diana and her insane obsession with murdering Jane and her children. I couldn't decide if I should hate the woman or pity her, either way though, I had my heart in my throat when her evil plans seemed to be coming to fruition.
Lucinda Brant is an amazing author, and this book like all of hers have you fully involved in the characters lives. I couldn't read this fast enough to find how it would end. I definitely recommend it, especially if you enjoy your books with both romance and intrigue.
May 28, 2013
3.75 stars! Wish they had increments. : )
SALT REDUX: Sequel to SALT BRIDE by Lucinda Brant carries with it all the grandeur, georgian history, on edge concern for what Lady Diana St. John will do next, as we were treated to in SALT BRIDE, but in the end there’s a happily ever after for everyone. I admire Antony’s respect for Caroline and his willingness to wait for her. I will say that in SALT BRIDE, Diana’s character was much more believable, but I was overjoyed to see Diana finally gets hers, and most justly as well.
I will say that I found SALT REDUX a bit slower moving than SALT BRIDE but over all, it still makes for an intriguing read. I’d hoped that Diana would show her evil earlier, although the prologue sets her up to be as villainous as before. I found that her ability to so easily fit herself back into London society a tad irrational considering how off the deep end she’d become, but then again, this is fiction.
This is not a stand-alone novel, to understand the story and move forward, you must read SALT BRIDE. However, if you have read SALT BRIDE, then yes, I recommend you read SALT REDUX: Sequel to SALT BRIDE by Lucinda Brant, if for no other reason but to find out what happens to Jane and Salt, Caroline and Antony, the children, and most importantly, Diana St. John – a conclusion you won’t want to miss.
***ecopy provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
SALT REDUX: Sequel to SALT BRIDE by Lucinda Brant carries with it all the grandeur, georgian history, on edge concern for what Lady Diana St. John will do next, as we were treated to in SALT BRIDE, but in the end there’s a happily ever after for everyone. I admire Antony’s respect for Caroline and his willingness to wait for her. I will say that in SALT BRIDE, Diana’s character was much more believable, but I was overjoyed to see Diana finally gets hers, and most justly as well.
I will say that I found SALT REDUX a bit slower moving than SALT BRIDE but over all, it still makes for an intriguing read. I’d hoped that Diana would show her evil earlier, although the prologue sets her up to be as villainous as before. I found that her ability to so easily fit herself back into London society a tad irrational considering how off the deep end she’d become, but then again, this is fiction.
This is not a stand-alone novel, to understand the story and move forward, you must read SALT BRIDE. However, if you have read SALT BRIDE, then yes, I recommend you read SALT REDUX: Sequel to SALT BRIDE by Lucinda Brant, if for no other reason but to find out what happens to Jane and Salt, Caroline and Antony, the children, and most importantly, Diana St. John – a conclusion you won’t want to miss.
***ecopy provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
April 13, 2013
Several months ago, I downloaded Salt Bride, the prequel to Salt Redux. After reading it, I knew I was hooked forever on Lucinda Brant's style of writing. Because I have so very little free time, I choose very carefully how I spend it, and so I rarely read a book I don't already know will rate five stars. Since reading Salt Bride, I have read all of Ms. Brant's books and have marveled with each one at the incredible skill with which she writes. The plot of each is complex and intensely engaging. Salt Redux has lived up to the quality of its siblings and is a masterful sequel to Salt Bride. I found it every bit as ingenious, rich, and enjoyable.
Sir Anthony Templestowe has loved Lady Caroline for several years and just when he might most have hoped to win her, his poor choices divide him from her, seemingly forever. I could hardly devour the pages fast enough to discover how the two of them overcome the profound obstacles that continue to divide them from each other. Ms. Brant employs great skill in composing the romance between Sir Anthony and Lady Caroline that is based on the truest sort of romantic love; they both care deeply for one another as well as having the keenest respect for one another. I highly recommend this outstanding historical romance set in Georgian England.
Sir Anthony Templestowe has loved Lady Caroline for several years and just when he might most have hoped to win her, his poor choices divide him from her, seemingly forever. I could hardly devour the pages fast enough to discover how the two of them overcome the profound obstacles that continue to divide them from each other. Ms. Brant employs great skill in composing the romance between Sir Anthony and Lady Caroline that is based on the truest sort of romantic love; they both care deeply for one another as well as having the keenest respect for one another. I highly recommend this outstanding historical romance set in Georgian England.
May 19, 2016
Almost unreadable
Having read three of Ms Brandt's Alec Halsey novels I decided to read two Salt novels. How I wish I hadn't. What I was able to overlook in the first book (basic plot, ridiculously exaggerated attributes of all the characters), were even more egregious in the second. The dialogue is unconvincing, the story line simple, and the change of a character's emotional state from one emotion to the next is absurd. I read a lot and review very little but I had to write this review to save someone from wasting a single moment of their life reading this drivel. I wish someone had done the same for me.
Having read three of Ms Brandt's Alec Halsey novels I decided to read two Salt novels. How I wish I hadn't. What I was able to overlook in the first book (basic plot, ridiculously exaggerated attributes of all the characters), were even more egregious in the second. The dialogue is unconvincing, the story line simple, and the change of a character's emotional state from one emotion to the next is absurd. I read a lot and review very little but I had to write this review to save someone from wasting a single moment of their life reading this drivel. I wish someone had done the same for me.
March 24, 2013
I really enjoyed this sequal to Salt Bride with Caro and Antony getting their HEA and meeting Salt and Jane's children and being reaquainted with Ron and Merry and all the characters from the previous book and of course Lady Diana St John the evil Lady. This story had me turning the pages and not wanting to put it down and the end is great. I loved this story thank you for hours of reading plesure MS Brandt, you really bring out the best in the characters.
November 28, 2015
Not as good as the first, but very intriguing for the most part. Diana is a very cunning & scary villain, & I worried over her plans a lot, even though you pretty much know what's going on most of the time. The book went off on too many tangents, describing in unnecessary detail about clothing, room decor, pets, & family scenes, etc. I like having a very clear picture, but it was distracting from the action that should have been taking place. Good to see Antony stepping up, though.
May 14, 2016
This wasn't as fluid and perfect for me as the previous one.
I think the villain and the plot were intriguing and had the resolutions I wanted to see but the romance between Anthony and Caroline as well as their behaviors weren't convincing.
It was great to see the previous couple so happy and having good moments with their family!
I think the villain and the plot were intriguing and had the resolutions I wanted to see but the romance between Anthony and Caroline as well as their behaviors weren't convincing.
It was great to see the previous couple so happy and having good moments with their family!
August 19, 2014
In this sequel to “Salt Bride” the reader is delighted to reunite with all the wonderful characters four years hence.
Read full review in the 2013 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2013 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
June 26, 2020
Loved it. Would like to read more of them, but looks like I'll have to wait to see if the series continues.
++ 1116 + 0819 0620
++ 1116 + 0819 0620
September 12, 2016
One of the very best e-book authors of historical romance that I have read in a long while.
August 7, 2023
Salt Redux tried to do too much, and succeeded at none of it. Salt and Jane are dull as a married couple, ensconced in the city with their three children and their niece. They have little to do except reiterate their love for one another and if Jane tiptoed into Mary Sue territory in the last book, then she stepped over the line here. Without access to her interiority, Jane is (too) perfect--incomparably beautiful, diplomatic, and kind, she can win anyone to her cause (and does). I would've preferred to spend less time with the Earl and Countess of Salt Hendon in order to focus on Antony and Caroline.
As it is, their romance doesn't feel earned. Tony left Caro abruptly after a drunken rant and to spite him, she . I assumed from the précis that their history would matter, and I know Brant can write tension based on Salt Bride. Tony and Caro share a couple kisses and a conversation before they resolve their issues. I would've been far more interested in their character and relationship development if more of it had occurred "on screen"--what do they look like as an adult couple? how do they adjust after a four-year separation? how does their self-recrimination play out interpersonally?
Tony and Caro revisit her adolescent attraction so much that I felt uncomfortable. It's possible that I'm the incorrect audience because I don't seek out the trope as a rule, but I think it reinforced the possible issues when she made reference to Antony as the first and only subject of her sexual fantasies from aged 13 to 22. It might have been acceptable for a man in his early to mid-twenties to develop feelings for a 15-year-old in the eighteenth century, but as a modern reader, I found it off-putting. Caro is "forward" to ensure Tony doesn't come across as a predator, but she's so naïve about her own experience of sexual coercion that it doesn't actually work. If the narrative had focused more on their relationship as adults (and the relevant power dynamics), I would've probably rooted for them a little more.
I found myself looking for more from Tony, Caro, and the Salt Hendons because Diana, Lady St. John is a clichéd, ineffectual villain. It was obvious that she and the characters' social, political, and ethical considerations did little to drive the plot forward. I was bored! The writing is good and the plot has promise, but the promise isn't really fulfilled.
As it is, their romance doesn't feel earned. Tony left Caro abruptly after a drunken rant and to spite him, she . I assumed from the précis that their history would matter, and I know Brant can write tension based on Salt Bride. Tony and Caro share a couple kisses and a conversation before they resolve their issues. I would've been far more interested in their character and relationship development if more of it had occurred "on screen"--what do they look like as an adult couple? how do they adjust after a four-year separation? how does their self-recrimination play out interpersonally?
Tony and Caro revisit her adolescent attraction so much that I felt uncomfortable. It's possible that I'm the incorrect audience because I don't seek out the trope as a rule, but I think it reinforced the possible issues when she made reference to Antony as the first and only subject of her sexual fantasies from aged 13 to 22. It might have been acceptable for a man in his early to mid-twenties to develop feelings for a 15-year-old in the eighteenth century, but as a modern reader, I found it off-putting. Caro is "forward" to ensure Tony doesn't come across as a predator, but she's so naïve about her own experience of sexual coercion that it doesn't actually work. If the narrative had focused more on their relationship as adults (and the relevant power dynamics), I would've probably rooted for them a little more.
I found myself looking for more from Tony, Caro, and the Salt Hendons because Diana, Lady St. John is a clichéd, ineffectual villain. It was obvious that she and the characters' social, political, and ethical considerations did little to drive the plot forward. I was bored! The writing is good and the plot has promise, but the promise isn't really fulfilled.
September 29, 2017
La recensione sul blog Mare di Inchiostro: https://maredinchiostro.wordpress.com...
Rispetto a La Sposa di Salt Heldon, questo libro è meno travolgente, anzi direi che in alcuni punti il libro è addirittura noioso. Sembra che la scrittrice abbia voluto prolungare la suspense dilungandosi troppo sulle descrizioni sia degli ambienti che dei personaggi (anche secondari) rendendo il libro veramente pesante in alcune parti.
Il libro non è in sostanza brutto, perché c’è l’attesa di scoprire la cattiveria che si inventerà questa volta la perfida Diana St. John, arrivando ad ordire un piano che non si può dire meno che folle.
Fortunatamente anche qui c’è una bella storia d’amore che pur non essendo delicata e dolce come la prima comunque ti fa venire voglia di leggere.
Anche i colpi di scena sono in qualche modo scontati perché l’assurdità stessa della cattiveria della St. John fa si che il finale sia quantomeno scontato.
In questo libro i protagonisti principali, oltre a Salth e Jane, sono Lady Caroline (sorella del conte) e Sir Antony Templestowe (fratello di Lady Diana St. John).
Lady Caroline, dolce ma combattiva, ha una personalità solare nonostante le sue vicende personali .
Sir Antony, tormentata anima, cercherà di riprendere in mano la sua vita e proverà a porre rimedio alle cattiverie perpetuate dalla perfida sorella.
Il tutto si svolge sempre sotto la supervisione del Conte e della contessa di Salth Heldon sempre più innamorati e sempre più disposti a lottare contro tutti e tutto pur di tenere vivo il loro amore.
Recensione a cura di Ofelia Meola
Rispetto a La Sposa di Salt Heldon, questo libro è meno travolgente, anzi direi che in alcuni punti il libro è addirittura noioso. Sembra che la scrittrice abbia voluto prolungare la suspense dilungandosi troppo sulle descrizioni sia degli ambienti che dei personaggi (anche secondari) rendendo il libro veramente pesante in alcune parti.
Il libro non è in sostanza brutto, perché c’è l’attesa di scoprire la cattiveria che si inventerà questa volta la perfida Diana St. John, arrivando ad ordire un piano che non si può dire meno che folle.
Fortunatamente anche qui c’è una bella storia d’amore che pur non essendo delicata e dolce come la prima comunque ti fa venire voglia di leggere.
Anche i colpi di scena sono in qualche modo scontati perché l’assurdità stessa della cattiveria della St. John fa si che il finale sia quantomeno scontato.
In questo libro i protagonisti principali, oltre a Salth e Jane, sono Lady Caroline (sorella del conte) e Sir Antony Templestowe (fratello di Lady Diana St. John).
Lady Caroline, dolce ma combattiva, ha una personalità solare nonostante le sue vicende personali .
Sir Antony, tormentata anima, cercherà di riprendere in mano la sua vita e proverà a porre rimedio alle cattiverie perpetuate dalla perfida sorella.
Il tutto si svolge sempre sotto la supervisione del Conte e della contessa di Salth Heldon sempre più innamorati e sempre più disposti a lottare contro tutti e tutto pur di tenere vivo il loro amore.
Recensione a cura di Ofelia Meola
May 8, 2023
Tony became a force to be reckoned with after overcoming alcoholism with rituals, tea, and a caring sponsor in Petersburg. From the moment that he realized Diana had escaped her gilded prison, he knew it was his responsibility to protect Jane and her children and vowed to do whatever was necessary. Similar to Tony's bad behavior upon learning the depravity of his sister, Caro drank too much and became reckless sending her life in an unpleasant direction. Their reconciliation is secondary to discovering and foiling Diana's plot.
Brant paints a picture of a criminally insane woman who believes she is totally in the right without dragging the story down with the minutiae. Diana's plot is multipronged and dastardly. Brant chose the middle ground of allowing Diana's plot to go far enough to make an entertaining story without causing harm to come to her other characters.
It is also brilliant how Alex Wyndam creates a uniquely identifiable voice for most of the characters. This dramatically improves the listening experience.
Brant paints a picture of a criminally insane woman who believes she is totally in the right without dragging the story down with the minutiae. Diana's plot is multipronged and dastardly. Brant chose the middle ground of allowing Diana's plot to go far enough to make an entertaining story without causing harm to come to her other characters.
It is also brilliant how Alex Wyndam creates a uniquely identifiable voice for most of the characters. This dramatically improves the listening experience.
January 11, 2022
As the title says, Salt Redux is the sequel to Salt Bride. It's a mostly satisfying conclusion to Antony's arc, as well as his sister Diana. It's not especially a romance which honestly I appreciated as I'm not enamored with Caroline's character. She's too immature, but Antony loves her so I didn't mind that she only appears a little in the story. It is great to see Salt and Jane again and see how married life has progressed for them four years on.
Diana's intended revenge is horrific. She really is a great villain - so evil. I did feel bad for Antony; she is his sister after all, but he's torn by memories of her in childhood versus her crimes at present. It's a good story and as always, Ms. Brant is so excellent on the historical details.
Diana's intended revenge is horrific. She really is a great villain - so evil. I did feel bad for Antony; she is his sister after all, but he's torn by memories of her in childhood versus her crimes at present. It's a good story and as always, Ms. Brant is so excellent on the historical details.
December 28, 2022
This book, whilst it can be read as a standalone, is very much a continuation of the characters and story begun in Salt Bride and as such is best read afterwards so that there is a connection to the characters bing portrayed. The story centres on Antony Templestowe and his quest to ensure that his insane sister does not hurt those he loves, with the romance element of the story being very much secondary. There are some minor loose ends that are not tied up by the author but in the main this is a well written book with interesting characters. Note: There is a rather graphic (and gruesome) description in the final pages and I would therefore advise readers not to finish this book just before bed!
I read this book in Kindle Unlimited.
I read this book in Kindle Unlimited.
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