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Fragrant Courtesans #1
Veronica Courtesan
I watch him watching us, imagining how he would take me.
I send him the message with my eyes.
This is who I am.
I am Veronica Franco.
I am a COURTESAN.
I court the cultural elite for fame and fortune, giving my body to many.
And I’m good. So very good. After all, I was taught by my mother, and mother always knows best.
How else to please the future King of France than with the imaginative use of Murano glass? How else to fulfil the desires of all yet keep my sense of self-worth?
But when disaster strikes and my life begins to unravel, I’ll have to ask myself one question:
Is it too late to give my heart to just one man?
Set in Venice 16th Century.
Advisory: sensuously erotic. 18+
I send him the message with my eyes.
This is who I am.
I am Veronica Franco.
I am a COURTESAN.
I court the cultural elite for fame and fortune, giving my body to many.
And I’m good. So very good. After all, I was taught by my mother, and mother always knows best.
How else to please the future King of France than with the imaginative use of Murano glass? How else to fulfil the desires of all yet keep my sense of self-worth?
But when disaster strikes and my life begins to unravel, I’ll have to ask myself one question:
Is it too late to give my heart to just one man?
Set in Venice 16th Century.
Advisory: sensuously erotic. 18+
147 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2015
19 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Siobhan Daiko
28 books321 followersSiobhan Daiko is a British historical fiction author. A lover of all things Italian, she lives in the Veneto region of northern Italy with her husband, a Havanese dog and a Siberian cat. Siobhan was born of English parents in Hong Kong, attended boarding school in Australia, and then moved to the UK — where she taught modern foreign languages in a Welsh high school. She now spends her time writing page-turners and living the dolce vita sweet life near Venice. Her novels are compelling, poignant, and deeply moving, with strong female characters and evocative settings, but always with romance at their heart. You can find more about her books on her website www.siobhandaiko.org
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 26, 2015
Veronica: Fragrant Courtesans Book One, is set in 16th century Venice, and is about a young woman who decides to escape an unhappy marriage and follow in her mother’s footsteps by becoming a courtesan.
There is a lot of sex in this novella, but there is also a strong storyline throughout, that not only intrigued me, but also enlightened me in ways I had not expected. I enjoyed the interesting mix of characters, adored the strength and determination within Veronica, loved the respect some of the characters showed towards Veronica, and found the whole story felt very convincing and believable.
This novella not only made me question whether things really were like that in the past, but also about how much things have changed over the years. How much more accepting society has become of both women and sexuality. This had an underlying depth to it that I had not initially expected to find in an erotic novella.
I laughed out loud in some places, gasped in others, found myself considering the logistics of ‘instant virginity’ for perhaps longer than I should have, and don’t get me started on lemons. I had to Google that one!
‘Tis the first book I have read by Siobhan Daiko, but what a ‘joy’ it was to read. Overall, this is a very well written erotic period novella. I look forward to getting to know the next fragrant courtesan.
I would like to thank the author, Siobhan Daiko for a copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2015
I would like to thank the author for sending me an ARC of this book to read and review.
Venice - late 16th century. Set free from the binds of an arranged, unhappy marriage, 18-year-old Veronica Franco follows her mother's footsteps and learns the art of love and seduction. Soon she becomes the most beautiful, sought-after courtesan in Venice. Using her body and wits, she courts the elite of the city for fame and fortune, without embarrassment or emotion. She's a strong woman who sets her own rules in a male-dominated world. With her body no longer belonging to her but rather to her paying patrons, Veronica is determined to keep the most important things to herself... her mind... and heart.
I usually read thrillers and crime fiction and so when the author offered me a copy of this erotic novella I wasn't sure if I would actually read it. Having read and loved 'Lady of Asolo' by the same author, I decided to give it a go and actually ended up loving it too (and wanting more!).
Like some hard boiled thrillers, this book is definitely not for the faint-hearted but for another totally different reason. It contains A LOT of erm... action... but obviously not of the same type we usually find in thrillers.
Daiko's prose is exquisite, sensual and erotic but also very explicit, describing sex scenes to the minimum details. Not used to erotica novels, while reading I could almost feel steam coming out of my ears. My mouth turned dry and a hot flush crawled up my neck. I actually had to take breaks between chapters.
'"Do you want me to delight you, my lord?"
He closes his eyes and his breathing becomes more rapid.'
Ms Daiko has a knack for historical and erotic scenes. Her vivid descriptions of sights, sounds and even smells take her readers back in time to another place and dimension and make them feel as if they're an active part of what's happening.
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone loving heart-pounding erotica. Ms Daiko Well Done and I am now looking forward to meet your second courtesan - Theodora.
Venice - late 16th century. Set free from the binds of an arranged, unhappy marriage, 18-year-old Veronica Franco follows her mother's footsteps and learns the art of love and seduction. Soon she becomes the most beautiful, sought-after courtesan in Venice. Using her body and wits, she courts the elite of the city for fame and fortune, without embarrassment or emotion. She's a strong woman who sets her own rules in a male-dominated world. With her body no longer belonging to her but rather to her paying patrons, Veronica is determined to keep the most important things to herself... her mind... and heart.
I usually read thrillers and crime fiction and so when the author offered me a copy of this erotic novella I wasn't sure if I would actually read it. Having read and loved 'Lady of Asolo' by the same author, I decided to give it a go and actually ended up loving it too (and wanting more!).
Like some hard boiled thrillers, this book is definitely not for the faint-hearted but for another totally different reason. It contains A LOT of erm... action... but obviously not of the same type we usually find in thrillers.
Daiko's prose is exquisite, sensual and erotic but also very explicit, describing sex scenes to the minimum details. Not used to erotica novels, while reading I could almost feel steam coming out of my ears. My mouth turned dry and a hot flush crawled up my neck. I actually had to take breaks between chapters.
'"Do you want me to delight you, my lord?"
He closes his eyes and his breathing becomes more rapid.'
Ms Daiko has a knack for historical and erotic scenes. Her vivid descriptions of sights, sounds and even smells take her readers back in time to another place and dimension and make them feel as if they're an active part of what's happening.
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone loving heart-pounding erotica. Ms Daiko Well Done and I am now looking forward to meet your second courtesan - Theodora.
July 21, 2015
As they say, there is a first time for everything. This was my first erotica novel recommended to me by a GR friend. I've never had the desire to read the 50 shades of Grey series but this sounded a little different so I figured why not. It is actually the first in a series of e-novellas by the author about different famous courtesans from around the world. This first novella is based on Veronica Franco, a courtesan and poet, born in 1546 in Venice. As the author states, the story is not a biography but historical fiction. However, she has adapted the real Veronica's writings and into the poems in this story for the modern reader to enjoy. The names of her lovers are also authentic.
I thought it would be fun to try a new genre and wanted something light after reading some heavier books. It was a short and fast read that did make me giggle like a school girl in many places. I will probably always look at my Murano glass earrings I got in Italy a few years ago and think of this book, even though the Murano glass referred to in the story is used for something entirely different. And the lemon. If you want to know how the lemon was used, you will have to read the story. It actually makes sense and I'm guessing is historically accurate.
Was it a fun read? Yes. Did I learn something? Again, the lemon. Did I find a new genre to read? No. While I did like this e-novella, it wasn't great literature and fit perfectly for me between some other, heavier books. I would recommend this for a group of girlfriends to group read, no doubt. I wish I had a few to discuss this with over a few cocktails. While I won't be clamoring to read more erotica anytime soon, I will probably make time to read the next e-novella in the series, Theodora Courtesan, due in November. 3 stars.
I thought it would be fun to try a new genre and wanted something light after reading some heavier books. It was a short and fast read that did make me giggle like a school girl in many places. I will probably always look at my Murano glass earrings I got in Italy a few years ago and think of this book, even though the Murano glass referred to in the story is used for something entirely different. And the lemon. If you want to know how the lemon was used, you will have to read the story. It actually makes sense and I'm guessing is historically accurate.
Was it a fun read? Yes. Did I learn something? Again, the lemon. Did I find a new genre to read? No. While I did like this e-novella, it wasn't great literature and fit perfectly for me between some other, heavier books. I would recommend this for a group of girlfriends to group read, no doubt. I wish I had a few to discuss this with over a few cocktails. While I won't be clamoring to read more erotica anytime soon, I will probably make time to read the next e-novella in the series, Theodora Courtesan, due in November. 3 stars.
June 28, 2015
Erotica is not a genre that I read very much of but after seeing a couple of other fellow readers give it good reviews I thought I would give this book a go.
I have read all 4 books of the Fifty Shades series and have got to say they are pretty tame compared to Veronica COURTESAN. You certainly don't need to let your imagination do the work for you in this book as the author goes into great detail when it comes to the 'action' parts. Certainly leaves you feeling a bit hot under the collar as the saying goes.
The author has really done her research though as the story is set in the 16th century, we very much get the feel of what it was like to live in that era and how women are very much looked down on, so it was nice to see that even though Veronica who lives and works to put mens needs always before hers is very much a strong character.
Even though there is a fair bit of erotica in the story, the balance of the erotica and the story itself was pretty spot on and overall I found it a very enjoyable read. Would certainly read more books by the author but might have to wait until i've cooled down first!
I have read all 4 books of the Fifty Shades series and have got to say they are pretty tame compared to Veronica COURTESAN. You certainly don't need to let your imagination do the work for you in this book as the author goes into great detail when it comes to the 'action' parts. Certainly leaves you feeling a bit hot under the collar as the saying goes.
The author has really done her research though as the story is set in the 16th century, we very much get the feel of what it was like to live in that era and how women are very much looked down on, so it was nice to see that even though Veronica who lives and works to put mens needs always before hers is very much a strong character.
Even though there is a fair bit of erotica in the story, the balance of the erotica and the story itself was pretty spot on and overall I found it a very enjoyable read. Would certainly read more books by the author but might have to wait until i've cooled down first!
May 25, 2015
'Tis a noble and celebrated thing to be a courtesan in 16th Century Venice and no one could be better suited to this calling than the beautiful Veronica Franco.
Trapped in an arranged marriage to an abusive and elderly husband, with only Murano glass to comfort her, the sensual and cultured Veronica soon realises that her talents and inclinations lie elsewhere and she takes to the role of high class courtesan like a duck to water. She is truly a happy hooker.
I don't really read erotic fiction - the mass success of the 50 Shades books has somewhat put me off - but I found myself enjoying the descriptions of Veronica's professional exploits. There is certainly some very explicit prose here but it would be a churlish reader who doesn't go along with our heroine as she reaches her 'joy' as she very succinctly puts it.
Ms Daiko paints a wonderful picture of my favourite city, Venice. Her writing has that rare and magical quality which ensures that her characters stay with you long after the last page has been read.
A book to be treasured.
I was fortunate to receive an advance copy in return for an honest review.
June 25, 2015
This novella really demonstrates the author’s breadth of talent, creating a credible heroine who becomes a courtesan after escaping a loveless marriage and has the reader rooting for her despite this unconventional decision. It is clearly also very well researched, creating a strong sense of place and historical accuracy. Erotic novellas aren’t something I would usually read, but the sensual scenes in Veronica are expertly written and, having already read and loved both ‘The Orchid Tree’ and ‘The Lady of Asolo’, I will be keeping a very eager watch out for the author’s next release.
May 28, 2015
As a general rule I am not an erotic fiction reader but I was given this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story about Veronica, married a 17 to an elderly gentleman who abused her but by the time she reaches 18 she had decided that married life was not for her, she was more suited to the life of a courtesan.
My first reaction after reading this was "oh my", Murano glass does have other uses apart from being decorative!
Not only is this the story of Veronica and the joy she finds in perfecting her trade and becoming a strong independent woman but it is also about life in 16th Century Venice. I can almost see myself there as the author paints such a rich and detailed picture of Venice and the Lifestyle at the time.
The explicit sex scenes are cleverly written and interwoven with the rest of the story to show the joy and pride Veronica takes in perfecting her trade.
I loved the book and give it 5 stars and would highly recommend this book. I look forward to book 2.
This is the story about Veronica, married a 17 to an elderly gentleman who abused her but by the time she reaches 18 she had decided that married life was not for her, she was more suited to the life of a courtesan.
My first reaction after reading this was "oh my", Murano glass does have other uses apart from being decorative!
Not only is this the story of Veronica and the joy she finds in perfecting her trade and becoming a strong independent woman but it is also about life in 16th Century Venice. I can almost see myself there as the author paints such a rich and detailed picture of Venice and the Lifestyle at the time.
The explicit sex scenes are cleverly written and interwoven with the rest of the story to show the joy and pride Veronica takes in perfecting her trade.
I loved the book and give it 5 stars and would highly recommend this book. I look forward to book 2.
June 21, 2015
Veronica Courtesan is one of the most sumptuously, sensuously erotic and delicious books I have ever read. When Siobhan Daiko sat in the diffused Venetian light to write Veronica Courtesan, she was awash in the same light that inspired the great works on canvas or marble of the masters, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Corregio and Gaspari. Her words flow through her pen with the same long, elegant, yet eloquent, strokes in her book as the masters used with paint and chisel. This is a book of words as art. I was captivated, her prisoner of love, from the beginning and hated the story to end. Gratefully, neither history nor love ever does. A spellbinding work of art.
July 12, 2015
Wow this book blew me away! Beautiful setting and a very informative look at the life of a courtesan in 16th century Venice. My heart was touch by all that Veronica endured to rise to be at the top of her trade, by giving her all to men by sating their lust for her skills as a lover. She was a very strong woman her knew her own mind but i felt that she gave so much more than she got in return from her patrons. Siobhan Daiko has written an impressive story based on her exploits so much so that i couldn't put it down once i started reading it. I am very much looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 3, 2015
This book was fantastic , the characters felt realistic and 3 dimensional, to the point were I wasn't overly fond of the main character. The plot was believable and interesting and the secondary characters were intriguing. This historical stuck closely to the feel of the era and transported the reader to Venice in the 1500s. The only thing I had an issue with was the use of the word figa and culo which is definitely unique to me and the lack of Italian in the poetry otherwise a fantastic read
June 22, 2015
Loved it!
August 19, 2015
Review to come.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2018
This was such a different style for me that I was excited to read it. I really enjoyed this story and the characters I love SC Daiko's writing style so when I saw this one for free on AZ I jumped and grabbed it. I was in the mood to read something different. Since I'm not a huge Historical Romance fan I thought I'd give it a try because like I said I like Siobhan's writing style. This story didn't dissapoint. It was sexy and insightful, and I loved the strong fierce female lead we were given.
June 25, 2015
Review of Veronica COURTESAN by Siobhan Daiko
Veronica is the first book in the Fragrant Courtesans series. I don’t think it can be considered as a standalone since it bears the promise of a continuation of Veronica’s story. However, I can assure you haters of cliffhangers, you won’t be disappointed. First of all, I must say I love historical novels. There is something so romantic about returning in the past and feel all the romancing with the characters. However, there are some things about historical novels that I am not so found of. One of them is the courtesan’s life. I have never thought that the woman should gain power over others by using sexual intercourse and seduction as their weapons. Nevertheless, I do admire the fact that our heroine wants equality for both genders and that she battles as hard as she can to keep herself well in a world and time dominated by male.
This novel takes place in Venice, 16th century. Even though we are used to associate this place with romance and adventure, the truth is that chauvinism was its personal mark. Our heroine, Veronica is an 18th year old that is trapped has been trapped in a loveless, arranged, marriage for a year. She gets tired of being the wife of an elder man and decides that the life of a courtesan might suit her much better. I know things weren’t easy for women at those times and that being with a man that could be your father or, even worse, your grandfather is quite tragic. Nevertheless, I think there are more options than you sell your body because that is precisely what she did. I can’t say I agree with her methods but I do admire the determination and the desire for equality that Veronica has.
Mrs. Daiko presents us with a novel so realistic that you would find yourself struggling with our heroine’s problems and sharing her frustration. Her prose was quite exquisite and I couldn’t help but find myself blushing at some scenes. We are used to raw and contemporary erotica but the truth is that there is something more sensuous in the seduction people used back then. The elegant but sexy words and techniques can be quite creative. I have to admit I was quite surprised when I found her with multiple partners at the same time. I have read a little bit of ménage before but a girl with more than two men is a little too much for me. However, if the sexual content might offend you, I recommend you don’t read this book since those scenes are prominent in the novel. Leaving aside the sexual content, I consider her a strong character that learned how to conduct herself in the different social circles that Venice presented at that time. Also, I was amazed at how she gave some power to Veronica over the male figure through seduction. Nonetheless, in my humble opinion, I believe women can take that kind of power and confidence from another source. Finally, I loved the touch of, if not feminism, at least the desire for gender equality that the author presented and emphasized during the novel.
Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock
Veronica is the first book in the Fragrant Courtesans series. I don’t think it can be considered as a standalone since it bears the promise of a continuation of Veronica’s story. However, I can assure you haters of cliffhangers, you won’t be disappointed. First of all, I must say I love historical novels. There is something so romantic about returning in the past and feel all the romancing with the characters. However, there are some things about historical novels that I am not so found of. One of them is the courtesan’s life. I have never thought that the woman should gain power over others by using sexual intercourse and seduction as their weapons. Nevertheless, I do admire the fact that our heroine wants equality for both genders and that she battles as hard as she can to keep herself well in a world and time dominated by male.
This novel takes place in Venice, 16th century. Even though we are used to associate this place with romance and adventure, the truth is that chauvinism was its personal mark. Our heroine, Veronica is an 18th year old that is trapped has been trapped in a loveless, arranged, marriage for a year. She gets tired of being the wife of an elder man and decides that the life of a courtesan might suit her much better. I know things weren’t easy for women at those times and that being with a man that could be your father or, even worse, your grandfather is quite tragic. Nevertheless, I think there are more options than you sell your body because that is precisely what she did. I can’t say I agree with her methods but I do admire the determination and the desire for equality that Veronica has.
Mrs. Daiko presents us with a novel so realistic that you would find yourself struggling with our heroine’s problems and sharing her frustration. Her prose was quite exquisite and I couldn’t help but find myself blushing at some scenes. We are used to raw and contemporary erotica but the truth is that there is something more sensuous in the seduction people used back then. The elegant but sexy words and techniques can be quite creative. I have to admit I was quite surprised when I found her with multiple partners at the same time. I have read a little bit of ménage before but a girl with more than two men is a little too much for me. However, if the sexual content might offend you, I recommend you don’t read this book since those scenes are prominent in the novel. Leaving aside the sexual content, I consider her a strong character that learned how to conduct herself in the different social circles that Venice presented at that time. Also, I was amazed at how she gave some power to Veronica over the male figure through seduction. Nonetheless, in my humble opinion, I believe women can take that kind of power and confidence from another source. Finally, I loved the touch of, if not feminism, at least the desire for gender equality that the author presented and emphasized during the novel.
Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock
September 3, 2015
This book is very steamy and I enjoyed reading it. Veronica was given few choices in life and then married off to a man more than twice her age. He beat her every day until she finally made a choice for herself. She decided to become a courtesan like her mother once was. Her mother helped her and her husband tried to interfere at first but quickly came to see reason. Veronica’s first client, Jamcomo wanted exclusivity and she granted it to him. She quickly realized it wasn’t that different from being married. She wasn’t his courtesan she was his mistress. Veronica’s mother helped her get a few other clients. Jacomo wasn’t happy about this and took his leave. Veronica learns many things by entertaining all these different men. Veronica finds that she is quite the poet and wishes to visit the literary salon. However she must find the right man and get him to take her. Soon enough one of her lovers helps her finds said man and he agrees to help her. Veronica finds herself with three regular men, who each in their own way love her and she loves them in return. One of them wishes to have exclusively but she refuses him; refuses to belong to any one man again. She loves her life the way it is. She doesn’t wish to lose him but he must find a way to share her. This book was interesting to read. It wasn’t just sex there was a great story line. Veronica is forced to make many decisions that affect not only her but her children and the people who work in her home; while courtesans are excepted and better than prostitutes to most but everyone. She must be careful of what she does outside of her home and who sees what she does inside her home. It was a different time and different things were acceptable and the punishments for what was not acceptable were different. I could only imagine what it was like to be alive during that time. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I also look forward to reading other books by Siobhan.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
September 2, 2015
Reviewed on behalf of 2 girls who love books blog.
Veronica courtesan by Siobhan Daiko.
As I started this book I was interested to learn of ladies in this profession in the 16th century. The story is set in Venice and is of a young woman struggling with her sexual desires in a time when women were just objects and possessions. I love reading historical novels but when you read about something like this it really opens your eyes as to just what women went through in this century.
The main character Veronica is a talented young lady whos family falls on hard times and so in the end she becomes a courtesan but will her intelligence allow for her to lay on her back? I don’t think so. Veronica is quick, whitty beautiful and intelligent who is determined to leave her mark on the earth. She along with some of her patrons and good friends make quite the group of friends for this era and it is amazing to read about how people found their way around certain aspects of their lives even with limited resources.
There is clearly a lot of research gone into this book which makes it an absolute joy to read and feels authentic from the language used to the descriptions of surroundings you believe you really are in 16th century Venice. The story is charming and easy to follow although I felt the ending was a little sudden for my liking. There are plenty of sinful scenes in the books which were described well and ke pt within the 16th century language.
Could have maybe done with a word glossary at front or back to make some of the words used more understandable instead of having to just work out there meanings through the sentence they were used in.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and is one of the best historical novels I have read.
I will be watching out for the next story from this author.
I rate this story 4 stars simply because of the difficulty understanding some of the words.
Veronica courtesan by Siobhan Daiko.
As I started this book I was interested to learn of ladies in this profession in the 16th century. The story is set in Venice and is of a young woman struggling with her sexual desires in a time when women were just objects and possessions. I love reading historical novels but when you read about something like this it really opens your eyes as to just what women went through in this century.
The main character Veronica is a talented young lady whos family falls on hard times and so in the end she becomes a courtesan but will her intelligence allow for her to lay on her back? I don’t think so. Veronica is quick, whitty beautiful and intelligent who is determined to leave her mark on the earth. She along with some of her patrons and good friends make quite the group of friends for this era and it is amazing to read about how people found their way around certain aspects of their lives even with limited resources.
There is clearly a lot of research gone into this book which makes it an absolute joy to read and feels authentic from the language used to the descriptions of surroundings you believe you really are in 16th century Venice. The story is charming and easy to follow although I felt the ending was a little sudden for my liking. There are plenty of sinful scenes in the books which were described well and ke pt within the 16th century language.
Could have maybe done with a word glossary at front or back to make some of the words used more understandable instead of having to just work out there meanings through the sentence they were used in.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and is one of the best historical novels I have read.
I will be watching out for the next story from this author.
I rate this story 4 stars simply because of the difficulty understanding some of the words.
July 2, 2015
I wanted to read Veronica COURTESAN as soon as I saw one of the teasers for it! It was super hot and I couldn't wait to read it! It turned out to be a lot different than what I expected or have gotten used to with historical romances, but it was a very good surprise. I have to say that this book is definitely one of the most unique and one of the hottest historical romances that I have ever read and I absolutely loved it!!
Veronica Franco is a very strong, independent, intelligent woman. She's creative, gifted, witty, stubborn, proud, and very passionate. She's confident, isn't afraid to speak her mind, and she definitely will not let anyone, especially not a man, walk all over her. Yes, Veronica is a courtesan, but she's so much more than that, she was a wonderful heroine and I truly loved her!
Veronica COURTESAN is full of seduction, power, strength, lessons, and love. It was a new reading experience for me because I usually only read about one hero and one heroine, but this book challenged that norm for me and won. It was obvious how much Veronica loved her men and visa versa. There was truly love and affection there and while it would've have seemed crazy to me before I read this book, it actually worked out. It is a beautiful, amazing book, I really enjoyed reading it and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!
Veronica COURTESAN is a standalone, it's only told from Veronica's POV, and it might not be the most orthodox of HEAs, it is one nevertheless and a beautiful one at that.
Veronica Franco is a very strong, independent, intelligent woman. She's creative, gifted, witty, stubborn, proud, and very passionate. She's confident, isn't afraid to speak her mind, and she definitely will not let anyone, especially not a man, walk all over her. Yes, Veronica is a courtesan, but she's so much more than that, she was a wonderful heroine and I truly loved her!
Veronica COURTESAN is full of seduction, power, strength, lessons, and love. It was a new reading experience for me because I usually only read about one hero and one heroine, but this book challenged that norm for me and won. It was obvious how much Veronica loved her men and visa versa. There was truly love and affection there and while it would've have seemed crazy to me before I read this book, it actually worked out. It is a beautiful, amazing book, I really enjoyed reading it and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!
Veronica COURTESAN is a standalone, it's only told from Veronica's POV, and it might not be the most orthodox of HEAs, it is one nevertheless and a beautiful one at that.
July 27, 2015
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review
“I cannot stop my mouth from falling open. A man dressing like a woman? Never before have I come across such a thing. So slight and small is he that we are the same size. I shall have to agree. ‘Of course, your Majesty, if such is your pleasure.’”
5 super sexy, historical stars. Although this isn’t my usual genre, I will gladly admit it was a hot read!!!
I watch him watching us, imagining how he would take me.
I send him the message with my eyes.
This is who I am.
I am Veronica Franco.
I am a COURTESAN.
I court the cultural elite for fame and fortune, giving my body to many.
And I’m good. So very good. After all, I was taught by my mother, and mother always knows best.
How else to please the future King of France than with the imaginative use of Murano glass? How else to fulfil the desires of all yet keep my sense of self-worth?
But when disaster strikes and my life begins to unravel, I’ll have to ask myself one question:
Is it too late to give my heart to just one man?
Set in Venice 16th Century.
Advisory: sensuously erotic. 18+
This book is set in 16th century Venice. Veronica is in an unhappy marriage and wants to escape and follow her mom’s footsteps and become a courtesan. This book is super hot with a lot of sex, but I will say there is an amazing story that goes along with it as well! I’m pretty hooked on this book now!! Great job!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
“I cannot stop my mouth from falling open. A man dressing like a woman? Never before have I come across such a thing. So slight and small is he that we are the same size. I shall have to agree. ‘Of course, your Majesty, if such is your pleasure.’”
5 super sexy, historical stars. Although this isn’t my usual genre, I will gladly admit it was a hot read!!!
I watch him watching us, imagining how he would take me.
I send him the message with my eyes.
This is who I am.
I am Veronica Franco.
I am a COURTESAN.
I court the cultural elite for fame and fortune, giving my body to many.
And I’m good. So very good. After all, I was taught by my mother, and mother always knows best.
How else to please the future King of France than with the imaginative use of Murano glass? How else to fulfil the desires of all yet keep my sense of self-worth?
But when disaster strikes and my life begins to unravel, I’ll have to ask myself one question:
Is it too late to give my heart to just one man?
Set in Venice 16th Century.
Advisory: sensuously erotic. 18+
This book is set in 16th century Venice. Veronica is in an unhappy marriage and wants to escape and follow her mom’s footsteps and become a courtesan. This book is super hot with a lot of sex, but I will say there is an amazing story that goes along with it as well! I’m pretty hooked on this book now!! Great job!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
September 5, 2015
Oh my! What an amazing and titilating erotic story this was. As the title suggests, Veronica is a Courtesan in 16th century Venice when it was considered by many as acceptable to be such a lady.
When we start the story, Veronica is 17 summers old and is married to an abusive man many years her senior but due to his own sexual issues, he is unable to consumate their marriage. Veronica decides that she wants her freedom and with the help of her mother, she leaves her husband and becomes a Courtesan. She is not just any Courtesan though, she is the most beautiful and respected Courtesan in all of Venice. She truely has a beautiful nature that men seem drawn too. Her poetry skills are superb and it is this talent that also assists her in life.
This story is NOT for anyone who dislikes sex between men and men on women and women as it does contain a fair bit of this. It is an erotic story so be prepared to get very hot and bothered and for your kindle to start smoking from the sceens the author depicts.
The author has done an amazing job with her recreation of the 16th century from her descriptive dialogue to her vivid recount of the people and places. At times I actually felt like if I closed my eyes, I could see everything she was describing to me.
This was my fist Sobhan Daiko book and I have to say I am now hooked.
Don't miss out on this amazing story of Veronica and her three main lovers, Ludovico, Andrew and her most beloved Marco. You will really enjoy the trip to the past with this story!
When we start the story, Veronica is 17 summers old and is married to an abusive man many years her senior but due to his own sexual issues, he is unable to consumate their marriage. Veronica decides that she wants her freedom and with the help of her mother, she leaves her husband and becomes a Courtesan. She is not just any Courtesan though, she is the most beautiful and respected Courtesan in all of Venice. She truely has a beautiful nature that men seem drawn too. Her poetry skills are superb and it is this talent that also assists her in life.
This story is NOT for anyone who dislikes sex between men and men on women and women as it does contain a fair bit of this. It is an erotic story so be prepared to get very hot and bothered and for your kindle to start smoking from the sceens the author depicts.
The author has done an amazing job with her recreation of the 16th century from her descriptive dialogue to her vivid recount of the people and places. At times I actually felt like if I closed my eyes, I could see everything she was describing to me.
This was my fist Sobhan Daiko book and I have to say I am now hooked.
Don't miss out on this amazing story of Veronica and her three main lovers, Ludovico, Andrew and her most beloved Marco. You will really enjoy the trip to the past with this story!
July 2, 2015
The book is set in the Medieval/Renaissance Era in 1563 in Venice. Hooked already! This is a book unlike no other. It takes you back to the Renaissance and how women's choices were limited. Victoria COURTESAN is just what it says she is, it is the story of her life and her choices, those who she receives and those who love her. It shows a fictional account of how things were in Venice at the time. Knowing about the religious laws and the civil laws that were in place at the time, makes some of what Veronica Franco does illegal, but at the same time you hope that she is caught or that she is not caught. It is a lesson in knowing who you can trust and with what. For when the wrong person sees the wrong thing, you can be brought before the church court magistrates and tried. Especially as a COURTESAN after the plague has gone through over the course of two years. It is steamy, and interesting at the same time, lots of sex due to the nature of who she is. A very stubborn woman who does not hesitate to speak her mind and network to get the things that she wants. I applaud her victories and mourn her failures and losses. A must read book if you like romance novels that feel like realistic-fiction and are set in the Renaissance. I look forward to book two!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin With M.Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin With M.Brennan.
October 11, 2015
Such an absolutely beautiful book. Daiko is masterful in her delivery, her writing is eloquent, poetic and so in tune to the powerhouse that is Veronica. Veronica is a woman ahead of her time. Married at a young age to an abusive, impotent older man, her spirit and soul suffer under his fist. Veronica makes the decision to become a courtesan like her mother before her. She proclaims that she will never be owned by another man, and throughout her life she hold true to this promise. Even when she loves each of her three men, she holds back a little of her heart in self-protection. Veronica is something of a poet and longs to visit the literary salons of the day.
This is a simple score for me, without a doubt, a five star read. I loved this book so much I intend to buy the paperback version also. Well done Ms. Daiko, erotic has become so very pedestrian in the last few years. I've been waiting for something to grab me and hold my interest, Veronica certainly achieves that and so much more. Discovering a historical erotic novel that is well written, interesting and descriptive is a real find. Can't wait to dive into the next book.
This is a simple score for me, without a doubt, a five star read. I loved this book so much I intend to buy the paperback version also. Well done Ms. Daiko, erotic has become so very pedestrian in the last few years. I've been waiting for something to grab me and hold my interest, Veronica certainly achieves that and so much more. Discovering a historical erotic novel that is well written, interesting and descriptive is a real find. Can't wait to dive into the next book.
September 27, 2015
great book for what I could understand of it historic is not usually my genre and I had to Google a fair amount of words and history is not my strong suit , but the hot sex and romance I could totally get behind "Fans self " great read well done, there were too many lovers to choose from for a book boyfriend and since the leading was in fact a lady and a really awesome one.... would veronica be my book girlfriend ? yes I think she would be a great one
June 27, 2015
A well written and erotic story based on the life of the 16th century Venetian courtesan Veronica Franco. The myriad of characters are well drawn and the sex scenes frequent and in complete context with the story. It is a lively and surprising warm (hot in many places!) read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is a stand alone but part of a series of novellas based on courtesans through the ages.
March 4, 2016
I have read other books from this author. I like her style and her way of expressing the erotic in a very tasteful way. This also contains a story and is actually fiction which is based on the life of a historical courtesan. The descriptions of Venice in the 16th century are beautiful and the reader can almost feel the gondola floating in the canal.
July 21, 2015
A must read!!
This book is an amazing insight into history! While the dialect is difficult for me at times, the story is amazing. It provides a beautiful insight into the life of a courtesan. I definitely would recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance and erotica in a historical setting.
This book is an amazing insight into history! While the dialect is difficult for me at times, the story is amazing. It provides a beautiful insight into the life of a courtesan. I definitely would recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance and erotica in a historical setting.
July 2, 2015
Very good. Was not disappointed.
September 3, 2015
Not just erotica, but erotica against a colourful background - Venice in the age of courtesans. Sumptuous, descriptive, and as far as my knowledge extends, historically accurate.
July 7, 2018
This is a very fast-paced, almost bullet-point, fictionalized accounting of a historical courtesan's life in Venice. The brevity and lack of almost any scenes, which weren't sexual, was disappointing, all the more so, because Veronica sounds like a fascinating person. However, the story is so rushed that it could have been a power-point presentation. "I met this guy. He was handsome." *SEX SCENE* "I met this other guy. He was nice." *SEX SCENE* "The two guys met at my house." *THREESOME SEX SCENE*
The only deviations are the rare scenes setting up the 'drama' in the story--a bitter, poetry-slam rival, the plague, and an accusation of witchcraft. Those sound like they could be awesome dramatic plots, but they are glossed over, and the reader is hurried along to the next sex scene.
I understand that this is erotica, and it's pretty good erotica. I noticed very few grammatical or punctuation errors. However, the author had all the makings of an epic, historical story, and she chose to use those makings to throw together a bare-bones frame to hang sex scenes on. I still really, really liked it, but cannot give it five stars, because of opportunities not taken to turn this into a truly great story, erotic or otherwise. The author does do a good job of setting the historical scene, and it is worth a read, though.
Recommended, if you're okay with dipping your toes in the water, as opposed to a fully-immersive, reading experience.
The only deviations are the rare scenes setting up the 'drama' in the story--a bitter, poetry-slam rival, the plague, and an accusation of witchcraft. Those sound like they could be awesome dramatic plots, but they are glossed over, and the reader is hurried along to the next sex scene.
I understand that this is erotica, and it's pretty good erotica. I noticed very few grammatical or punctuation errors. However, the author had all the makings of an epic, historical story, and she chose to use those makings to throw together a bare-bones frame to hang sex scenes on. I still really, really liked it, but cannot give it five stars, because of opportunities not taken to turn this into a truly great story, erotic or otherwise. The author does do a good job of setting the historical scene, and it is worth a read, though.
Recommended, if you're okay with dipping your toes in the water, as opposed to a fully-immersive, reading experience.
June 21, 2018
Erotic, uncomfortable, enchanting. Hot sweet sexy read, well written !iterate, historic. I wasn't sure if I would enjoy the bdsm, but be warned not for youngsters, very 18 and over. Seriously! If your groove is hot sexy domination, jump on this book! Triggers, 18 plus.
July 20, 2018
What an interesting book. I love the uniqueness of the story and the strong leading character. I’d recommend this book and I’d definitely read more of this author’s work.
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