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Shadows from the Past #2
El beso secreto de la oscuridad
Kayla Sinclair sabe que se ha metido en un buen lío cuando casi se queda sin un duro por comprar en una subasta el retrato a tamaño natural de un misterioso individuo que vivió en el siglo XIX.
Jago Kerswell, tabernero y contrabandista, sabe que esos momentos robados con lady Eliza Marcombe entrañan peligro, pero se arriesgará con tal de estar con ella. La maldición de una gitana caerá sobre la pareja y le permitirá, dos siglos después, llegar hasta Kayla.
¿Conseguirá ella resolver lo sucedido en el pasado? ¿Y lo que se
le viene encima?
Jago Kerswell, tabernero y contrabandista, sabe que esos momentos robados con lady Eliza Marcombe entrañan peligro, pero se arriesgará con tal de estar con ella. La maldición de una gitana caerá sobre la pareja y le permitirá, dos siglos después, llegar hasta Kayla.
¿Conseguirá ella resolver lo sucedido en el pasado? ¿Y lo que se
le viene encima?
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2013
216 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Christina Courtenay
35 books369 followersChristina Courtenay writes historical romance, time slip and time travel stories, and lives in Herefordshire (near the Welsh border) in the UK. Although born in England, she has a Swedish mother and was brought up in Sweden – hence her abiding interest in the Vikings. Christina is a former chairman of the UK’s Romantic Novelists’ Association and has won several awards, including the RoNA for Best Historical Romantic Novel twice with Highland Storms (2012) and The Gilded Fan (2014) and the RNA Fantasy Romantic Novel of the year 2021 with Echoes of the Runes. Christina is a keen amateur genealogist and loves history and archaeology (the armchair variety).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 18, 2015
Una novela preciosa que aúna a la perfección la romántica histórica y la contemporánea por medio de un fenómeno paranormal: un fantasma que resulta tan creíble como las dos historias de amor que nos cuenta la autora. No suelen gustarme las novelas que saltan de un siglo a otro constantemente con un hilo conductor porque me cuesta entrar en ellas y acaban por no gustarme ninguna de las dos historias contadas, pero con "El beso secreto de la oscuridad" me ha ocurrido todo lo contrario. Las dos me han cautivado por completo. Al principio, la novela despierta una simple curiosidad que te permite leerla con calma y, a medida que avanzas en la lectura, te va atrapando cada vez más y te engancha por completo. Me ha encantado, la he disfrutado mucho y lo único que no me ha convencido es que algunos diálogos no fluyen con naturalidad, pero es mi opinión y yo soy muy exigente en ese punto. La novela es muy recomendable y entrará a formar parte de mis favoritas.
March 16, 2016
Prometía la temática de esta libro pero se queda en nada... Aburrido, soso, sin química entre los personajes ( tanto del pasado como del Presente) y una trama en el presente que no tiene ni pies ni cabeza .. Lo dice lastima de idea para un libro tan mal elaborado.... Para gustos, los colores como siempre
April 14, 2020
Güzeldi genel olarak, okuyalı çok oldu giremedim buraya. İlginç bir kitaptı kurgu olarak ama daha derin olabilirdi sanki. Yine de okumaya değer.
May 14, 2025
I am amazed how choc- Lit publish such good novels. I have read New England Rocks about a school girl who gets expelled by Christina courtenay, A Bargain Struck about a Widower who advertises for a wife by Liz Harris,There's No Turning Back about Emma Le Goff and her childhood sweetheart Seth are set to marry by Linda Mitchelmore. Beneath an Irish Sky by Isabella Connor.
The Secret Kiss of Darkness is Christina Courtenay's seventh novel. I can honestly say that I have never read a story like this before. I enjoyed every single page. What is most interesting about this whole story is that it flows with not only two romances from different times but the thrill of magic like talking paintings, ghosts, and fortune-telling.
The first part of the story starts,In London 2013 Kayla Sinclair was left fifteen thousands pounds from her Auntie and decided to buy painting or an antique.
Blissfully romantic Kayla and Mike were happily engaged soon set to marry. With plans, Kayla would give up her place and move in with Mike. They were never away from each other, Kayla and Mike even worked together.
Kayla decided to take a trip to Sotheby's auction room in New Bond street with no intention of buying anything.
But Kayla bids up to eighteen thousands pounds for a life-size painting and she finds herself very attracted to the man in the painting.
The second story starts in Devon in 1781. Jago Kerswell is the son of a gypsy woman. Jago is an innkeeper who adventures out on a walk who meets up with Lady Eliza who is unhappily married to Jago's half-brother.
Romance starts again Jago and Lady Eliza start to see each other in secret.
I was very impressed and loved how the whole story is really well constructed bringing both of the stories weaving them together.
I genuinely recommend every reader and book club The Secret Kiss of Darkness. I can honestly say that this novel is truly unput downable.. Review by ireadnovels.wordpress.com
The Secret Kiss of Darkness is Christina Courtenay's seventh novel. I can honestly say that I have never read a story like this before. I enjoyed every single page. What is most interesting about this whole story is that it flows with not only two romances from different times but the thrill of magic like talking paintings, ghosts, and fortune-telling.
The first part of the story starts,In London 2013 Kayla Sinclair was left fifteen thousands pounds from her Auntie and decided to buy painting or an antique.
Blissfully romantic Kayla and Mike were happily engaged soon set to marry. With plans, Kayla would give up her place and move in with Mike. They were never away from each other, Kayla and Mike even worked together.
Kayla decided to take a trip to Sotheby's auction room in New Bond street with no intention of buying anything.
But Kayla bids up to eighteen thousands pounds for a life-size painting and she finds herself very attracted to the man in the painting.
The second story starts in Devon in 1781. Jago Kerswell is the son of a gypsy woman. Jago is an innkeeper who adventures out on a walk who meets up with Lady Eliza who is unhappily married to Jago's half-brother.
Romance starts again Jago and Lady Eliza start to see each other in secret.
I was very impressed and loved how the whole story is really well constructed bringing both of the stories weaving them together.
I genuinely recommend every reader and book club The Secret Kiss of Darkness. I can honestly say that this novel is truly unput downable.. Review by ireadnovels.wordpress.com
March 17, 2014
"Please, don't swoon again, I beg of you. I thought you modern women were made of sterner stuff and you don't even have the excuse of a tight bodice."
...Says the painting to the modern woman about to swoon.
Imagine that. A painting speaking to you!!!
There's two stories here, though the historical story is very, very minimal. I would call this a contemporary romance. In the past, Jago and Eliza had an affair. Now, don't judge. If you were in Eliza's shoes...
For reasons not divulged until the end--and therefore I won't divulge--Jago and Eliza's souls can only be reunited in the afterlife if their paintings are side by side. When the modern-day heroine falls in love with Jago's portrait at an auction, it changes her life in more ways than one. It sets her on an entirely different path. You see, Jago talks to her, and he sends her on a quest to find a missing painting--that of Eliza.
The quest sends her to an out-of-the-way estate where a Jago lookalike lives. A few little white lies--"I'm an art student seeking certain paintings..." leads to her being a temporary secretary and falling in love with her new boss, but gets her no closer to finding the painting...or does it?
The historical story, though minimal, presents some interesting parallels. The writing is great, as can be expected from a Courtenay novel. I liked the modern heroine in this, the way she grabs life, takes control, and despite what people say--especially her family--she does what is best for HER. I've said this before and I'll say it again: strength comes in many forms. A woman doesn't have to be wielding a sword or a gun or kicking butt and taking names to be strong.
The past heroine, Eliza, I had a harder time connecting with her. Perhaps because there is so little of her? I did like that she finds happiness, however forbidden and illicit, in a very miserable life though. You could say she makes the best of things. I did wonder many times though why she and Jago didn't run off together and questioned Jago's love for her. Surely some part of him wanted to rescue her? Take her away? I don't feel he tried very hard, to be honest. I loved him better when he was a talking painting.
While I'm on the subject, I want a talking painting. Though I probably wouldn't understand it, not unless the lips moved. LOL
But I digress.
The modern story kept me interested. There were little twists and turns and I could tell some characters were up to some shady stuff. The little girl is a show-stealer!! I don't normally like children in books but this one is a sweetie. But again, the hero didn't do it for me. Dude, someone has been in your house and slashed stuff. I expect more of a reaction than, "I'll ask around..."
Overall this is a very entertaining, light read. It was a pleasant diversion. The romance is sweet and takes just the right amount of time to develop. GREAT CHARACTER & RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT, MS. COURTENAY. I've noticed in many books nowadays, heroes and heroines are lip-locking mere seconds after meeting--by page three. Not so in this. Superbly done. I felt like I was growing and learning and feeling with the characters.
Full review, final thoughts: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2014/...
...Says the painting to the modern woman about to swoon.
Imagine that. A painting speaking to you!!!
There's two stories here, though the historical story is very, very minimal. I would call this a contemporary romance. In the past, Jago and Eliza had an affair. Now, don't judge. If you were in Eliza's shoes...
For reasons not divulged until the end--and therefore I won't divulge--Jago and Eliza's souls can only be reunited in the afterlife if their paintings are side by side. When the modern-day heroine falls in love with Jago's portrait at an auction, it changes her life in more ways than one. It sets her on an entirely different path. You see, Jago talks to her, and he sends her on a quest to find a missing painting--that of Eliza.
The quest sends her to an out-of-the-way estate where a Jago lookalike lives. A few little white lies--"I'm an art student seeking certain paintings..." leads to her being a temporary secretary and falling in love with her new boss, but gets her no closer to finding the painting...or does it?
The historical story, though minimal, presents some interesting parallels. The writing is great, as can be expected from a Courtenay novel. I liked the modern heroine in this, the way she grabs life, takes control, and despite what people say--especially her family--she does what is best for HER. I've said this before and I'll say it again: strength comes in many forms. A woman doesn't have to be wielding a sword or a gun or kicking butt and taking names to be strong.
The past heroine, Eliza, I had a harder time connecting with her. Perhaps because there is so little of her? I did like that she finds happiness, however forbidden and illicit, in a very miserable life though. You could say she makes the best of things. I did wonder many times though why she and Jago didn't run off together and questioned Jago's love for her. Surely some part of him wanted to rescue her? Take her away? I don't feel he tried very hard, to be honest. I loved him better when he was a talking painting.
While I'm on the subject, I want a talking painting. Though I probably wouldn't understand it, not unless the lips moved. LOL
But I digress.
The modern story kept me interested. There were little twists and turns and I could tell some characters were up to some shady stuff. The little girl is a show-stealer!! I don't normally like children in books but this one is a sweetie. But again, the hero didn't do it for me. Dude, someone has been in your house and slashed stuff. I expect more of a reaction than, "I'll ask around..."
Overall this is a very entertaining, light read. It was a pleasant diversion. The romance is sweet and takes just the right amount of time to develop. GREAT CHARACTER & RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT, MS. COURTENAY. I've noticed in many books nowadays, heroes and heroines are lip-locking mere seconds after meeting--by page three. Not so in this. Superbly done. I felt like I was growing and learning and feeling with the characters.
Full review, final thoughts: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2014/...
April 24, 2015
He leído otra novela de esta autora y su estilo me dejó maravillada, te traslada a la época y te conviertes en su protagonista, además después de leer este libro tengo la firme convicción de que en cada novela busca salirse de las típicas relaciones. Se agradece muy mucho su toque original.
Un buen día, Kayla se presenta en una subasta, quiere invertir su recién adquirida herencia en una obra de arte, el problema es que en el catálogo hay pocas cosas que pueda adquirir ya que el precio de salida suele tener demasiados ceros.
Pero hay un cuadro que le llama poderosamente la atención, no es demasiado oneroso y para ella es exquisito, en él se refleja el retrato de un hombre... muy atractivo. Así, ni corta ni perezosa, se mete de lleno en la puja y la gana, dejando más dinero del que tenía pensado.
De noche el cuadro habla con ella ¡Habla con un señor del siglo XIX! Al principio piensa que es por todo el estrés de la boda, sí, Kayla está en la cuenta atrás para subir al altar. El cuadro trastocará todos sus planes y dará a su vida un giro de 180º, en más de una ocasión nuestra protagonista maldecirá el día en el que se metió en la dichosa subasta.
Por petición del hombre del cuadro, Kayla se verá inmersa en toda una investigación nada fácil, y es que tendrá que averiguar la vida y antepasados de Jago (el hombre retratado) y buscar a la mujer, su otra mitad, que también fue retratada ¿pero quién tendrá el cuadro de su amada (Eliza)?
Alternando el presente, con Kayla, y el pasado con Eliza, la autora consigue engancharnos con las dos historias de estas mujeres. Confieso que al principio solo quería leer la trama histórica, pero es que empieza de forma más intensa que la contemporánea ¡menudo lío! la relación de Jago y Eliza era prácticamente imposible, permanecí con el corazón en un puño hasta el final.
A la trama de Kayla me costó un poco más cogerle el "gustillo", solo me entretenía cuando hablaba con Jago, el tema de Mike se me hizo un poco cuesta arriba, pero... cuando empiezan a encajar todas las piezas y Kayla empieza a sentir algo más por alguien... ahí ya tuvo toda mi atención. No digo nada más.
Un personaje que no me ha gustado nada, demasiado forzado, fue Caro, al escena violenta que acabó muy mal .... la entendí como algo demasiado "peliculero". No me gustó nada y algunas actuaciones de Alex tampoco, pintaba menos que un títere.
Y como Álex me encanta, estaba deseando saber si tenía libro y... ¡Así es! Ya hay título, portada y sinopsis, vamos que no se hace de rogar (El suave susurro de los sueños) ¡Me ha encantado este personaje!
En definitiva, una historia original, divertida y llena de magia. Apto para los lectores de romántica histórica y contemporánea, si encima sois asiduos de estas dos temáticas... ¿A qué estáis esperando?
MUY BUENO
Un buen día, Kayla se presenta en una subasta, quiere invertir su recién adquirida herencia en una obra de arte, el problema es que en el catálogo hay pocas cosas que pueda adquirir ya que el precio de salida suele tener demasiados ceros.
Pero hay un cuadro que le llama poderosamente la atención, no es demasiado oneroso y para ella es exquisito, en él se refleja el retrato de un hombre... muy atractivo. Así, ni corta ni perezosa, se mete de lleno en la puja y la gana, dejando más dinero del que tenía pensado.
De noche el cuadro habla con ella ¡Habla con un señor del siglo XIX! Al principio piensa que es por todo el estrés de la boda, sí, Kayla está en la cuenta atrás para subir al altar. El cuadro trastocará todos sus planes y dará a su vida un giro de 180º, en más de una ocasión nuestra protagonista maldecirá el día en el que se metió en la dichosa subasta.
Por petición del hombre del cuadro, Kayla se verá inmersa en toda una investigación nada fácil, y es que tendrá que averiguar la vida y antepasados de Jago (el hombre retratado) y buscar a la mujer, su otra mitad, que también fue retratada ¿pero quién tendrá el cuadro de su amada (Eliza)?
Alternando el presente, con Kayla, y el pasado con Eliza, la autora consigue engancharnos con las dos historias de estas mujeres. Confieso que al principio solo quería leer la trama histórica, pero es que empieza de forma más intensa que la contemporánea ¡menudo lío! la relación de Jago y Eliza era prácticamente imposible, permanecí con el corazón en un puño hasta el final.
A la trama de Kayla me costó un poco más cogerle el "gustillo", solo me entretenía cuando hablaba con Jago, el tema de Mike se me hizo un poco cuesta arriba, pero... cuando empiezan a encajar todas las piezas y Kayla empieza a sentir algo más por alguien... ahí ya tuvo toda mi atención. No digo nada más.
Un personaje que no me ha gustado nada, demasiado forzado, fue Caro, al escena violenta que acabó muy mal .... la entendí como algo demasiado "peliculero". No me gustó nada y algunas actuaciones de Alex tampoco, pintaba menos que un títere.
Y como Álex me encanta, estaba deseando saber si tenía libro y... ¡Así es! Ya hay título, portada y sinopsis, vamos que no se hace de rogar (El suave susurro de los sueños) ¡Me ha encantado este personaje!
En definitiva, una historia original, divertida y llena de magia. Apto para los lectores de romántica histórica y contemporánea, si encima sois asiduos de estas dos temáticas... ¿A qué estáis esperando?
MUY BUENO
January 16, 2016
RESEÑA COMPLETA ➜ http://goo.gl/jWZH9k
Kayla tiene una vida perfecta. Su trabajo es perfecto, su prometido es perfecto y no hay nada que la haga dudar de esto o al menos eso era hasta que entró a una galería de arte y posó sus ojos en el cuadro de un joven galante que parecía que le sonreía sólo a ella. Kayla vuelve una y otra vez a la
galería para mirar al apuesto joven un día casi sin saberlo compra en una subasta el cuadro. Su prometido no está muy feliz con ello e ínsita a la joven a vender el cuadro pero ella se niega y termina rompiendo su compromiso.
Kayla se sentiría desanimado por eso pero una noche el cuadro le habla y le cuenta una historia que alejará de su mente todo lo relacionado con la cancelada boda y la empujará a la vida de otro hombre que la hará sentir como nunca se había sentido.
Se había prometido que la esperaría una eternidad si hacía falta, asumiendo que la espera sería recompensada. Pero pasaron años y siglos y no se veía un final, por lo que él empezó a desesperarse. Dudaba. ¿Volverían alguna vez a estar juntos?
Iba y venía de la oscuridad que le mantenía cautivo, a veces consciente de las cosas que pasaban a su alrededor, a veces solo escuchando lo que sucedía. Se daba cuenta de cómo el mundo estaba cambiando, evolucionando en una sociedad mucho más tolerante que aquella en la que él había vivido. Eso le daba esperanza, pero también le entristecía. Ojalá las cosas hubieran sido así cuando él vivía.
La esencia de madreselva y rosas le sacudió de repente y le sacó de las sombras. Entonces miró a la mujer que permanecía de pie frente a él, mirándole con mucha atención.
Este libro esta contado a dos tiempos. Al inicio de cada capítulo tenemos a Jago (el joven en el cuadro) contándonos poco a poquito su historia y también tenemos a Kayla en el presente tratando de encontrar el otro cuadro que unirá a Jago con su alma gemela.
Al principio del libro pensé que esta iba a ser una novela tipo “Amante de ensueño” de la diosa autora y que Jago iba a salir del cuadro o algo así, pero para mi sorpresa eso no ocurrió sino que aparece otro personaje que será el que ponga patas arriba la vida de nuestra protagonista. Un personaje que también lleva la voz cantante en la narración y que gracias a él conocemos más detalles de la historia.
También pensaba que este libro iba ser completamente de amor, pero aunque el amor está muy presente el tema principal termina siendo el “secreto” de Jago o al menos a mí me emociono muchísimo más descubrir por fin toda la historia del contrabandista. Y al final siento que la historia de Jago opaco la historia de Kayla en el presente.
—De acuerdo, ¿queda en dieciocho mil? Adjudicada por… —el hombre esperó unos minutos más—… dieciocho mil libras. —El martillo descendió con un crack, lo que hizo que Kayla diera un salto incluso aunque lo vio venir. El corazón le latía tan fuete que pensó que, en cualquier momento, se le saldría del pecho. Consciente de ello, levantó su paleta—. Para el comprador número quinientos dieciséis.
Kayla cerró los ojos y respiró rápidamente, pues el pánico la asaltaba desde todas las direcciones. «Oh, Dios, ¿qué he hecho?» ¿Cómo iba a explicarlo? ¿Cómo pagaría aquel cuadro?»
Dieciocho mil libras. Esa cifra superaba al menos en tres mil lo que ella podía permitirse. No había vuelta atrás, su puja había sido aceptada.
La autora nos regala una historia de amor en el presente y pasado que tendrá elementos para todos los gustos y el ritmo con el que las maneja es muy bueno, ni muy acelerado ni muy lento y sus personajes son bien definidos y variopintos.
Creo que de lo único que puedo quejarme es que al final esperaba un cierre más perfecto para Jago y no sólo un “Gracias”. Fuera de eso puedo decirles que si buscan una buena historia de amor no totalmente rosa, esta es su novela.
Creo que he sido muy vaga a la hora de hablar de esta historia y de sus personajes, pero yo disfrute mucho ir conociendo poco a poco todo y no me atrevo a contarles de más y arruinarles las sorpresas que esconde el libro.
RESEÑA COMPLETA ➜ http://goo.gl/jWZH9k
Kayla tiene una vida perfecta. Su trabajo es perfecto, su prometido es perfecto y no hay nada que la haga dudar de esto o al menos eso era hasta que entró a una galería de arte y posó sus ojos en el cuadro de un joven galante que parecía que le sonreía sólo a ella. Kayla vuelve una y otra vez a la
galería para mirar al apuesto joven un día casi sin saberlo compra en una subasta el cuadro. Su prometido no está muy feliz con ello e ínsita a la joven a vender el cuadro pero ella se niega y termina rompiendo su compromiso.
Kayla se sentiría desanimado por eso pero una noche el cuadro le habla y le cuenta una historia que alejará de su mente todo lo relacionado con la cancelada boda y la empujará a la vida de otro hombre que la hará sentir como nunca se había sentido.
Se había prometido que la esperaría una eternidad si hacía falta, asumiendo que la espera sería recompensada. Pero pasaron años y siglos y no se veía un final, por lo que él empezó a desesperarse. Dudaba. ¿Volverían alguna vez a estar juntos?
Iba y venía de la oscuridad que le mantenía cautivo, a veces consciente de las cosas que pasaban a su alrededor, a veces solo escuchando lo que sucedía. Se daba cuenta de cómo el mundo estaba cambiando, evolucionando en una sociedad mucho más tolerante que aquella en la que él había vivido. Eso le daba esperanza, pero también le entristecía. Ojalá las cosas hubieran sido así cuando él vivía.
La esencia de madreselva y rosas le sacudió de repente y le sacó de las sombras. Entonces miró a la mujer que permanecía de pie frente a él, mirándole con mucha atención.
Este libro esta contado a dos tiempos. Al inicio de cada capítulo tenemos a Jago (el joven en el cuadro) contándonos poco a poquito su historia y también tenemos a Kayla en el presente tratando de encontrar el otro cuadro que unirá a Jago con su alma gemela.
Al principio del libro pensé que esta iba a ser una novela tipo “Amante de ensueño” de la diosa autora y que Jago iba a salir del cuadro o algo así, pero para mi sorpresa eso no ocurrió sino que aparece otro personaje que será el que ponga patas arriba la vida de nuestra protagonista. Un personaje que también lleva la voz cantante en la narración y que gracias a él conocemos más detalles de la historia.
También pensaba que este libro iba ser completamente de amor, pero aunque el amor está muy presente el tema principal termina siendo el “secreto” de Jago o al menos a mí me emociono muchísimo más descubrir por fin toda la historia del contrabandista. Y al final siento que la historia de Jago opaco la historia de Kayla en el presente.
—De acuerdo, ¿queda en dieciocho mil? Adjudicada por… —el hombre esperó unos minutos más—… dieciocho mil libras. —El martillo descendió con un crack, lo que hizo que Kayla diera un salto incluso aunque lo vio venir. El corazón le latía tan fuete que pensó que, en cualquier momento, se le saldría del pecho. Consciente de ello, levantó su paleta—. Para el comprador número quinientos dieciséis.
Kayla cerró los ojos y respiró rápidamente, pues el pánico la asaltaba desde todas las direcciones. «Oh, Dios, ¿qué he hecho?» ¿Cómo iba a explicarlo? ¿Cómo pagaría aquel cuadro?»
Dieciocho mil libras. Esa cifra superaba al menos en tres mil lo que ella podía permitirse. No había vuelta atrás, su puja había sido aceptada.
La autora nos regala una historia de amor en el presente y pasado que tendrá elementos para todos los gustos y el ritmo con el que las maneja es muy bueno, ni muy acelerado ni muy lento y sus personajes son bien definidos y variopintos.
Creo que de lo único que puedo quejarme es que al final esperaba un cierre más perfecto para Jago y no sólo un “Gracias”. Fuera de eso puedo decirles que si buscan una buena historia de amor no totalmente rosa, esta es su novela.
Creo que he sido muy vaga a la hora de hablar de esta historia y de sus personajes, pero yo disfrute mucho ir conociendo poco a poco todo y no me atrevo a contarles de más y arruinarles las sorpresas que esconde el libro.
RESEÑA COMPLETA ➜ http://goo.gl/jWZH9k
September 14, 2015
Le doy una estrella porque escribir una historia tiene un gran esfuerzo detrás, pero me ha sido imposible terminar ésta. La historia no hay quien se la crea, parece más una parodia de los libros de fantasmas que otra cosa. La historia de amor del pasado no la entiendo, pero no por nada, sino porque me resulta super artificial y forzada. ¿Y la de la actualidad? Pues lo que decía, que el rollo con el fantasma me parece más una broma que otra cosa. En fín, que NUNCA me gusta dejarme los libros sin terminar pero DE VERDAD DE VERDAD, que con este no he podido.
September 21, 2024
Me encantan estas historias! Familia, amor, suspenso e historias antiguas! Sigo con el siguiente!
November 21, 2024
A romance from the past helps a relationship in the future.
August 4, 2014
A richly woven tapestry of dark secrets, dangerous temptation and everlasting love, The Secret Kiss of Darkness is a spellbinding time-slip novel from the pen of multi award-winning author Christina Courtenay.
Kayla Sinclair knew that she should have been sensible and invested the money she had inherited from an old aunt into something practical and useful. However, when she goes to an auction and finds herself bewitched by a striking portrait of a handsome eighteenth century smuggler, she throws caution to the wind and nearly bankrupts herself by buying the unusual painting. Despite her fiance’s ire that she wasted so much money on a ridiculous portrait, Kayla is not about to send it back – especially as she finds herself intrigued by the brooding man in the painting whose eyes seem to follow her around her living room. Kayla is determined to discover more about the man whose face has begun to haunt her thoughts and dreams – and it seems like she’s in luck when, one fine day, the gorgeous smuggler introduces himself as Jago Kerswell and begs her to reunite him with his one true love, Lady Eliza Marcombe…
In eighteenth century Devon, Jago Kerswell might have had noble blood pumping in his veins, but he has always known that he was no gentleman. Born on the wrong side of the blanket, Jago was the son of a a beautiful gypsy woman and the arrogant Lord Marcombe, who had always refused to acknowledge his illegitimate child in public. Having always been determined to make something of himself, Jago was the owner of a successful tavern and dabbled in smuggled goods, alongside many of the people who lived in the village. Jago always made sure that he shared the spoils of his expeditions with his fellow neighbors, but when he claps eyes on Eliza, his brother’s beautiful new bride, he vows not to share the woman who has stolen his heart with anybody else! Yet Jago and Eliza know that theirs is a love that must never be discovered…
Captivated by this passionate love story, Kayla decides to drive to Devon where she finds herself on a quest to right the wrongs of the past and break the spell that has condemned Jago to an eternity of loneliness and regret. Yet, little does Kayla realize that she is about to come face to face with her destiny – in the shape of the devastatingly attractive Wesley Marcombe, a descendant of Jago’s!
After the acrimonious break-up of his marriage, Wesley had vowed to keep his heart under lock and key and never get involved with another woman ever again. But Kayla has managed to get under his skin and breach the impenetrable walls which he had built around himself. However, is Wesley prepared to run the risk of putting his heart on the line for a second time? Or will a formidable enemy, with a thirst of revenge, ruin his second chance at love?
Kayla’s quest to reunite Jago and Eliza soon ends up putting her in irrevocable danger. Will she end up losing the man she has grown to love just when happiness is within reach?
The Secret Kiss of Darkness is a phenomenal tale of old ghosts, treacherous magic and love lost and found that I found absolutely impossible to put down. It is no coincidence that Christina Courtenay keeps winning prizes for her novels – she is an outstanding storyteller with an extraordinary gift for bringing any period in history to vivid and colorful life and creating a world full of passion, danger and excitement that sweeps readers along and keeps them enthralled from beginning to end!
In The Secret Kiss of Darkness, readers are treated to two powerful, compelling and poignant love stories that are deliciously spiced with nail-biting intrigue, terrifying suspense and heart-pounding passion.
Kayla and Eliza are two wonderfully diverse heroines whose strength, courage and dignity will endear them to readers and Jago and Wesley are absolutely wonderful heroes no woman will be able to resist!
A fantastic time-slip novel that continues to cement Christina Courtenay’s position as one of the most exciting writers of romantic fiction writing today, The Secret Kiss of Darkness is another first-rate read readers will not want to miss!
This review was originally published on Single Titles
Kayla Sinclair knew that she should have been sensible and invested the money she had inherited from an old aunt into something practical and useful. However, when she goes to an auction and finds herself bewitched by a striking portrait of a handsome eighteenth century smuggler, she throws caution to the wind and nearly bankrupts herself by buying the unusual painting. Despite her fiance’s ire that she wasted so much money on a ridiculous portrait, Kayla is not about to send it back – especially as she finds herself intrigued by the brooding man in the painting whose eyes seem to follow her around her living room. Kayla is determined to discover more about the man whose face has begun to haunt her thoughts and dreams – and it seems like she’s in luck when, one fine day, the gorgeous smuggler introduces himself as Jago Kerswell and begs her to reunite him with his one true love, Lady Eliza Marcombe…
In eighteenth century Devon, Jago Kerswell might have had noble blood pumping in his veins, but he has always known that he was no gentleman. Born on the wrong side of the blanket, Jago was the son of a a beautiful gypsy woman and the arrogant Lord Marcombe, who had always refused to acknowledge his illegitimate child in public. Having always been determined to make something of himself, Jago was the owner of a successful tavern and dabbled in smuggled goods, alongside many of the people who lived in the village. Jago always made sure that he shared the spoils of his expeditions with his fellow neighbors, but when he claps eyes on Eliza, his brother’s beautiful new bride, he vows not to share the woman who has stolen his heart with anybody else! Yet Jago and Eliza know that theirs is a love that must never be discovered…
Captivated by this passionate love story, Kayla decides to drive to Devon where she finds herself on a quest to right the wrongs of the past and break the spell that has condemned Jago to an eternity of loneliness and regret. Yet, little does Kayla realize that she is about to come face to face with her destiny – in the shape of the devastatingly attractive Wesley Marcombe, a descendant of Jago’s!
After the acrimonious break-up of his marriage, Wesley had vowed to keep his heart under lock and key and never get involved with another woman ever again. But Kayla has managed to get under his skin and breach the impenetrable walls which he had built around himself. However, is Wesley prepared to run the risk of putting his heart on the line for a second time? Or will a formidable enemy, with a thirst of revenge, ruin his second chance at love?
Kayla’s quest to reunite Jago and Eliza soon ends up putting her in irrevocable danger. Will she end up losing the man she has grown to love just when happiness is within reach?
The Secret Kiss of Darkness is a phenomenal tale of old ghosts, treacherous magic and love lost and found that I found absolutely impossible to put down. It is no coincidence that Christina Courtenay keeps winning prizes for her novels – she is an outstanding storyteller with an extraordinary gift for bringing any period in history to vivid and colorful life and creating a world full of passion, danger and excitement that sweeps readers along and keeps them enthralled from beginning to end!
In The Secret Kiss of Darkness, readers are treated to two powerful, compelling and poignant love stories that are deliciously spiced with nail-biting intrigue, terrifying suspense and heart-pounding passion.
Kayla and Eliza are two wonderfully diverse heroines whose strength, courage and dignity will endear them to readers and Jago and Wesley are absolutely wonderful heroes no woman will be able to resist!
A fantastic time-slip novel that continues to cement Christina Courtenay’s position as one of the most exciting writers of romantic fiction writing today, The Secret Kiss of Darkness is another first-rate read readers will not want to miss!
This review was originally published on Single Titles
March 17, 2014
I was unfamiliar with the term “time slip” until this book. After seeing the book referred to as a time slip novel, I had to Google that term to see exactly what it meant. Considering that time travel is one of my all time favorite tropes, you'd think I would’ve come across the term before, but if I did it didn’t stick in my head. While time travel stories do seem to fall into the category of time slip, not all time slip stories actually have time travel in them. That's where this book fits. There are two story lines running concurrently, one in the present, and one in the past, and the narrative goes back and forth between them.
Kayla is our heroine in the present. A legal secretary (as was I for many years, so, you know, relate!), she comes into some money (not relate!), and decides to spend it on something for herself rather than save it or invest it or something equally boring. So she goes to Sotheby's, where she is mesmerized by a painting. Which she then spends nearly all of her money on. And then the man in the portrait begins talking to her.
Said man, Jago Kerswell, is the hero of the past story, set in Devon in 1781. He owns the local inn, is the bastard son of a gypsy and a titled gentleman, and is a smuggler. But a good guy smuggler, whose actions, along with the rest of the gang, benefit the poorer members of the community. When he runs into his half brother's wife, the Lady Elizabeth, he is instantly smitten with her, and thus begins an illicit affair between the two of them.
Back in the present, the Jago of the portrait needs Kayla to find the matching portrait of Eliza so he can be reunited with her. This quest takes Kayla to the scene of the crime, so to speak - Marcombe Hall, still owned by a descendant of Jago's half brother.
Both story lines were enjoyable, but Kayla's was much more engaging for me. She was a very likable heroine, who struggles at first to accept that a painting is talking to her, and that she's not having nightmares or going insane. I appreciated that it took her a little while to come to that acceptance. In Devon she meets the descendant, Sir Wesley, and his young daughter, Nell, who was precious without being sickening or ridiculously precocious. Not everyone can write a realistic child into a story, and make the child an integral part of the story and not just a plot moppet, but the author did a wonderful job with Nell and I was quite enamored of the little girl.
While finding Eliza's portrait is the reason Kayla visits Marcombe Hall, it's not what keeps her there longer than planned, and the quest often took a backseat to Kayla's own life. We come to know Kayla quite well, and at times I was so caught up in what was going on with her life that I momentarily forgot about Jago and his story, until the scene would shift back to his time. Jago's story wasn't quite as involving, and we barely get to really know Eliza at all. But I was quite content with that, and I was very satisfied with how both stories wound up in the end.
Originally posted at http://octoberwomanrobin.blogspot.com
Kayla is our heroine in the present. A legal secretary (as was I for many years, so, you know, relate!), she comes into some money (not relate!), and decides to spend it on something for herself rather than save it or invest it or something equally boring. So she goes to Sotheby's, where she is mesmerized by a painting. Which she then spends nearly all of her money on. And then the man in the portrait begins talking to her.
Said man, Jago Kerswell, is the hero of the past story, set in Devon in 1781. He owns the local inn, is the bastard son of a gypsy and a titled gentleman, and is a smuggler. But a good guy smuggler, whose actions, along with the rest of the gang, benefit the poorer members of the community. When he runs into his half brother's wife, the Lady Elizabeth, he is instantly smitten with her, and thus begins an illicit affair between the two of them.
Back in the present, the Jago of the portrait needs Kayla to find the matching portrait of Eliza so he can be reunited with her. This quest takes Kayla to the scene of the crime, so to speak - Marcombe Hall, still owned by a descendant of Jago's half brother.
Both story lines were enjoyable, but Kayla's was much more engaging for me. She was a very likable heroine, who struggles at first to accept that a painting is talking to her, and that she's not having nightmares or going insane. I appreciated that it took her a little while to come to that acceptance. In Devon she meets the descendant, Sir Wesley, and his young daughter, Nell, who was precious without being sickening or ridiculously precocious. Not everyone can write a realistic child into a story, and make the child an integral part of the story and not just a plot moppet, but the author did a wonderful job with Nell and I was quite enamored of the little girl.
While finding Eliza's portrait is the reason Kayla visits Marcombe Hall, it's not what keeps her there longer than planned, and the quest often took a backseat to Kayla's own life. We come to know Kayla quite well, and at times I was so caught up in what was going on with her life that I momentarily forgot about Jago and his story, until the scene would shift back to his time. Jago's story wasn't quite as involving, and we barely get to really know Eliza at all. But I was quite content with that, and I was very satisfied with how both stories wound up in the end.
Originally posted at http://octoberwomanrobin.blogspot.com
February 11, 2014
I am such a HUGE fan of Christina Courtenay and have loved her novels ever since I picked up The Gilded Fan, which by the way if you haven’t read then please do because it is stunning – words cannot describe how I fell in love with that book! So I was VERY keen to get started on Christina’s latest release – The Secret Kiss Of Darkness.
In the present day, Kayla Sinclair is engaged to be married, and after inheriting some money, she feels compelled to bid on a portrait of a mysterious eighteenth century man at an auction. Over two centuries ago Jago Kerswell, an inn-keeper and smuggler, knows he could be putting both himself and Lady Eliza Marcombe in danger with their meetings, but they can’t keep away from each other.
But when Kayla’s jealous fiancé gives her an ultimatum, and Jago and Eliza’s affair is discovered, Kayla and Jago’s lives become linked through a gypsy’s spell…
I particularly enjoyed the way the two different stories were intricately linked and woven in together, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying both parts! I love that there was a modern romance mixed in with a love affair that happened a long time before, along with passionate moments and secret meetings.
The magical element was FASCINATING. I was swept up in this side of the story, I was ever so intrigued with the painting and what it would mean for Kayla, and I was gripped to the novel wanting to know more about the gypsy’s spell.
I really liked Kayla from the beginning, and when I was reading it constantly felt as though I was stood next to her living out every scene with her. I really got behind her and I was urging her on as she began her quest to find out more about the portrait. Another favourite character of mine was Wes – Christina you have outdone yourself with him – I LOVED his parts and I always looked forward to reading more about him!
I became so lost and involved in what I was reading, I really felt the suspense and tension in some moments of the book, I felt for the characters as they progressed on their journey, and my heart raced as I rushed to find out what would happen next.
The Secret Kiss Of Darkness is a thrilling and magical story with plenty of mystery, intrigue and romance!
In the present day, Kayla Sinclair is engaged to be married, and after inheriting some money, she feels compelled to bid on a portrait of a mysterious eighteenth century man at an auction. Over two centuries ago Jago Kerswell, an inn-keeper and smuggler, knows he could be putting both himself and Lady Eliza Marcombe in danger with their meetings, but they can’t keep away from each other.
But when Kayla’s jealous fiancé gives her an ultimatum, and Jago and Eliza’s affair is discovered, Kayla and Jago’s lives become linked through a gypsy’s spell…
I particularly enjoyed the way the two different stories were intricately linked and woven in together, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying both parts! I love that there was a modern romance mixed in with a love affair that happened a long time before, along with passionate moments and secret meetings.
The magical element was FASCINATING. I was swept up in this side of the story, I was ever so intrigued with the painting and what it would mean for Kayla, and I was gripped to the novel wanting to know more about the gypsy’s spell.
I really liked Kayla from the beginning, and when I was reading it constantly felt as though I was stood next to her living out every scene with her. I really got behind her and I was urging her on as she began her quest to find out more about the portrait. Another favourite character of mine was Wes – Christina you have outdone yourself with him – I LOVED his parts and I always looked forward to reading more about him!
I became so lost and involved in what I was reading, I really felt the suspense and tension in some moments of the book, I felt for the characters as they progressed on their journey, and my heart raced as I rushed to find out what would happen next.
The Secret Kiss Of Darkness is a thrilling and magical story with plenty of mystery, intrigue and romance!
February 4, 2014
What a lovely bit of romantic escapism just what's needed on a dull, wet winters day. Choc-lit publishers have come up with a dual time period romance which doesn't take itself too seriously, has an unusual gentle, fantasy element and everything a good story should have.
In the present time we have a likeable heroine Kayla, engaged to be married who has recently inherited a sum of money she decides to invest in a painting and she trots along to an auction, where she does what I'd be worried I'd do if I attended an auction - finds she's unable to stop bidding on one particular item which isn't even really what she had in mind - it's an old fashioned antique portrait of a man.
Back in eighteenth century Cornwall we meet Jago, a handsome Innkeeper who leads a double life as a smuggler and meets the love of his life Eliza - who just happens to be the wife of his estranged half brother.
The painting is his portrait and it's ownership quite literally changes Kaylas life, it leads to a broken engagement and has her wondering about her sanity when she begins to hear the subject of the painting talking to her. An age old mystery is revealed that she can't help but begin to investigate and this in turn leads her to a beautiful stately home and its occupants, the gorgeous Wes and his daughter Nell with whom she becomes involved in her search for answers to the mystery surrounding her painting.
Pure romance every step of the way, slick writing, original twists and great characters lift it head and shoulders above the norm, an immensely enjoyable and satisfying read from cover to cover.
In the present time we have a likeable heroine Kayla, engaged to be married who has recently inherited a sum of money she decides to invest in a painting and she trots along to an auction, where she does what I'd be worried I'd do if I attended an auction - finds she's unable to stop bidding on one particular item which isn't even really what she had in mind - it's an old fashioned antique portrait of a man.
Back in eighteenth century Cornwall we meet Jago, a handsome Innkeeper who leads a double life as a smuggler and meets the love of his life Eliza - who just happens to be the wife of his estranged half brother.
The painting is his portrait and it's ownership quite literally changes Kaylas life, it leads to a broken engagement and has her wondering about her sanity when she begins to hear the subject of the painting talking to her. An age old mystery is revealed that she can't help but begin to investigate and this in turn leads her to a beautiful stately home and its occupants, the gorgeous Wes and his daughter Nell with whom she becomes involved in her search for answers to the mystery surrounding her painting.
Pure romance every step of the way, slick writing, original twists and great characters lift it head and shoulders above the norm, an immensely enjoyable and satisfying read from cover to cover.
January 21, 2014
I’ve read most of Christina Courtenay’s books and I always enjoy them. This one was no exception. Although, like most people, I’ll tell you I don’t believe in ghosts I have to admit that the supernatural always appeals to me in a story so talking paintings and gypsies telling fortunes were right up my alley. The publisher, Choc Lit, describes the male lead characters in their books in terms of chocolate. In this case, I think it’s more appropriate to compare Jago and Wes to smooth, aged brandy. There’s a depth to the Marcombe men that makes the historic and contemporary characters compelling. Jago and Wes are magnetic and I liked how the author creates a strong familial link between them while also making them very much part of the eras they live in. Kayla also made an impression on me: as I read I felt like I had stepped into her world and enjoyed being there. All in all, I found this story engrossing and a great escape. Talking pictures and fortune telling may not be real but I wish they were.
March 29, 2014
Charming modern-day heroine, Kayla provides the link for a past romance to find its happy ending while in the process finding her own.
I found Kayla a sweet and refreshing heroine, though it was the heroes of past and present - Jago and Wes - who really captivated me. This is the first historical/time slip Christina Courtenay novel I've read and she does heroes *very* well.
Happily, there's a sequel which I'm now really looking forward to. The blending of past and present was intriguing, the romance quite lovely and the writing style beautiful and well paced, making for an absorbing reading experience.
I found Kayla a sweet and refreshing heroine, though it was the heroes of past and present - Jago and Wes - who really captivated me. This is the first historical/time slip Christina Courtenay novel I've read and she does heroes *very* well.
Happily, there's a sequel which I'm now really looking forward to. The blending of past and present was intriguing, the romance quite lovely and the writing style beautiful and well paced, making for an absorbing reading experience.
June 16, 2015
He disfrutado mucho con este libro. Es bastante diferente a lo que suele publicarse. Mezcla a la perfección el romance con el misterio y aventuras además de contar dos historias preciosas en pasado y presente con un nexo de unión. En definitiva una novela que recomiendo muchísimo, tanto por sus personajes como las tramas están narradas con mimo y consiguen atraparte desde el principio.
July 5, 2016
Divertido. Cuadros muy especiales (para saberlo hay que leerlo) que ayudan a (para saberlo hay que leerlo) campiña inglesa, presenta y pasado. En fin que me ha gustado muchísimo. Esta muy bien escrito y los personajes van ganando. Los de ayer y los de hoy. No digo más
April 13, 2015
PRECIOSO ♥
October 25, 2016
Gizemli , sürükleyici ve okuma süreci keyifli bir hikayeydi . Okumayı düşünüyorsanız tavsiye ederim ..
February 24, 2023
Kayla, movida por un impulso, decide invertir todo el dinero heredado de su abuela en un cuadro del siglo XIX de enormes proporciones. Al colgarlo en el salón de su diminuto piso, le espera una sorpresa: Jago Kerswell, el caballero del lienzo, puede moverse y comunicarse con ella.
Intrigada por la tragedia que le explica Jago, Kayla decide ayudarlo para que su espíritu se reúna con su amada y con ese fin, emprende un viaje hasta Marcombe Hall, la mansión donde empezó el calvario de Jago.
Esta novela nos narra dos historias que transcurren en dos planos temporales diferentes: la de Kayla en el presente y la de Jago, unos dos siglos antes. Partiendo de la base de que estamos hablando de una novela de género romántico, la historia de amor de Yago me ha parecido muy triste y la protagonizada por Kayla, bastante predecible.
El punto paranormal de este libro lo pone el fantasma de Yago al comunicarse con Kayla a través de su imagen en un lienzo. Esto no deja de resultarme original, sin embargo, siento que la autora no ha sabido explotar bien todas las posibilidades que le brindaba ese suceso y que podría haber hecho que esta novela fuera mucho más interesante y misteriosa, y prácticamente convierte la maldición en una anécdota que sirve de excusa a la protagonista para que rompa con la vida que lleva que, sin ser consciente de ello, le está asfixiando, y emprenda un viaje que le haga encontrar la verdadera felicidad en su vida.
De todos los personajes, sin dudarlo, me quedo con Jago. Su vida no ha sido nada fácil desde que nació y a pesar de que no siempre actúa de forma correcta, es todo un luchador y un hombre muy justo.
En general es una historia con pocos sobresaltos y en la que me ha faltado sentir más química entre la pareja protagonista. Por otro lado, en el último tramo de la novela, se introduce una subtrama, quizás con la intención de darle algo más de ritmo y suspense a la historia, que personalmente, me ha parecido un tanto forzada.
Es una lectura sencilla, agradable, correcta. No puedo decir que haya algo que me haya disgustado en ella, pero tampoco me ha dejado la sensación de que estaba ante una lectura maravillosa. Creo que en esta historia se han querido tocar muchos palos -amor, humor, suspense, drama- y la autora no ha sabido encontrar la fórmula mágica para que, juntos, todos esos ingredientes dieran como resultado un plato exquisito.
Intrigada por la tragedia que le explica Jago, Kayla decide ayudarlo para que su espíritu se reúna con su amada y con ese fin, emprende un viaje hasta Marcombe Hall, la mansión donde empezó el calvario de Jago.
Esta novela nos narra dos historias que transcurren en dos planos temporales diferentes: la de Kayla en el presente y la de Jago, unos dos siglos antes. Partiendo de la base de que estamos hablando de una novela de género romántico, la historia de amor de Yago me ha parecido muy triste y la protagonizada por Kayla, bastante predecible.
El punto paranormal de este libro lo pone el fantasma de Yago al comunicarse con Kayla a través de su imagen en un lienzo. Esto no deja de resultarme original, sin embargo, siento que la autora no ha sabido explotar bien todas las posibilidades que le brindaba ese suceso y que podría haber hecho que esta novela fuera mucho más interesante y misteriosa, y prácticamente convierte la maldición en una anécdota que sirve de excusa a la protagonista para que rompa con la vida que lleva que, sin ser consciente de ello, le está asfixiando, y emprenda un viaje que le haga encontrar la verdadera felicidad en su vida.
De todos los personajes, sin dudarlo, me quedo con Jago. Su vida no ha sido nada fácil desde que nació y a pesar de que no siempre actúa de forma correcta, es todo un luchador y un hombre muy justo.
En general es una historia con pocos sobresaltos y en la que me ha faltado sentir más química entre la pareja protagonista. Por otro lado, en el último tramo de la novela, se introduce una subtrama, quizás con la intención de darle algo más de ritmo y suspense a la historia, que personalmente, me ha parecido un tanto forzada.
Es una lectura sencilla, agradable, correcta. No puedo decir que haya algo que me haya disgustado en ella, pero tampoco me ha dejado la sensación de que estaba ante una lectura maravillosa. Creo que en esta historia se han querido tocar muchos palos -amor, humor, suspense, drama- y la autora no ha sabido encontrar la fórmula mágica para que, juntos, todos esos ingredientes dieran como resultado un plato exquisito.
February 22, 2019
Bonito y con un argumento bastante original:
Kayla, una chica de nuestra era, compra un cuadro en una subasta. Esa noche el cuadro empieza a hablarle y le pide un extraño favor: que le reúna con el retrato de su amada, hecho por el mismo pintor. Así empieza la aventura de Kayla por averiguar el paradero del cuadro, y al mismo tiempo veremos la historia de Jago, el hijo ilegítimo de un noble, y lady Eliza, la esposa del medio hermano de este, que se aman y están obligados a llevar su relación en secreto.
La historia va intercalando pasajes del presente y del pasado. Lo bueno de esto es que cuando una decaía y se volvía aburrida, la otra estaba en su punto álgido, y así siempre una de las dos conseguía mantenerme entretenida. Lo malo es... que la historia prometía mucho para lo que al final ha sido. La historia del presente tenía toda la trama de Caro, la ex de Wes, que tiene un final casi de película de sobremesa. Y la del pasado empieza de una manera absurda y forzada: la pareja, que acaba de conocerse porque han tropezado el uno con el otro, al minuto uno ya se están besando y ella pidiéndole a él -a un extraño- que la enseñe a disfrutar en la cama porque su marido no sabe. Cuando ya el inicio es así ya no espero gran cosa. La del pasado no es una historia que me haya llegado, es más, los personajes apenas me han transmitido nada. La del presente me ha gustado más, aunque me sigue pareciendo irreal esa pedida cuando solo se conocen de unas pocas semanas. Wes me ha gustado mucho, es un padrazo, sensible y responsable, Kayla también. Aunque creo que hubiera quitado algunas páginas de su historia y se las hubiera dado a la del pasado para que no fuera tan "acabo de conocerte y ya te quiero". Creo que esta es la madre de todos los instaloves.
A pesar de todo, lo he pasado bien leyendo, ha sido entretenida y muy original.
Kayla, una chica de nuestra era, compra un cuadro en una subasta. Esa noche el cuadro empieza a hablarle y le pide un extraño favor: que le reúna con el retrato de su amada, hecho por el mismo pintor. Así empieza la aventura de Kayla por averiguar el paradero del cuadro, y al mismo tiempo veremos la historia de Jago, el hijo ilegítimo de un noble, y lady Eliza, la esposa del medio hermano de este, que se aman y están obligados a llevar su relación en secreto.
La historia va intercalando pasajes del presente y del pasado. Lo bueno de esto es que cuando una decaía y se volvía aburrida, la otra estaba en su punto álgido, y así siempre una de las dos conseguía mantenerme entretenida. Lo malo es... que la historia prometía mucho para lo que al final ha sido. La historia del presente tenía toda la trama de Caro, la ex de Wes, que tiene un final casi de película de sobremesa. Y la del pasado empieza de una manera absurda y forzada: la pareja, que acaba de conocerse porque han tropezado el uno con el otro, al minuto uno ya se están besando y ella pidiéndole a él -a un extraño- que la enseñe a disfrutar en la cama porque su marido no sabe. Cuando ya el inicio es así ya no espero gran cosa. La del pasado no es una historia que me haya llegado, es más, los personajes apenas me han transmitido nada. La del presente me ha gustado más, aunque me sigue pareciendo irreal esa pedida cuando solo se conocen de unas pocas semanas. Wes me ha gustado mucho, es un padrazo, sensible y responsable, Kayla también. Aunque creo que hubiera quitado algunas páginas de su historia y se las hubiera dado a la del pasado para que no fuera tan "acabo de conocerte y ya te quiero". Creo que esta es la madre de todos los instaloves.
A pesar de todo, lo he pasado bien leyendo, ha sido entretenida y muy original.
July 4, 2019
A solid 4 stars. I love novels which have historical and modern threads running side by side.
The characters were interesting and for the most part well developed, the same for the plot.
The reasons that it hasn't managed the 5 stars are first, the villain is not introduced until after half way through the novel, though they are hinted at. This meant that by the time the villain turns up, it seems more like an obvious plant rather than a natural part of the story. The villain's motivations were rather weak.
This was a great pity because the main characters were really well done, but they just were not matched by well done villains.
The other reason was that after half a book's worth of build up of the painting of Jago, Kayla's interactions with him almost disappear. There was also a lack of shock from the love interest that Kayla wasn't honest with him about her motivations from visiting his art works.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel. It was well written and an easy read. I'm happy I took a punt on it so that I can go and search out her other books.
The characters were interesting and for the most part well developed, the same for the plot.
The reasons that it hasn't managed the 5 stars are first, the villain is not introduced until after half way through the novel, though they are hinted at. This meant that by the time the villain turns up, it seems more like an obvious plant rather than a natural part of the story. The villain's motivations were rather weak.
This was a great pity because the main characters were really well done, but they just were not matched by well done villains.
The other reason was that after half a book's worth of build up of the painting of Jago, Kayla's interactions with him almost disappear. There was also a lack of shock from the love interest that Kayla wasn't honest with him about her motivations from visiting his art works.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel. It was well written and an easy read. I'm happy I took a punt on it so that I can go and search out her other books.
April 27, 2018
I loved this book.
I am currently deep in exams, chores and work, so I needed something that could bring me different emotions, easy enjoyment and a story to completely make me forget all around me. This book was the perfect one for all that.
I started this series by reading the third book, so I knew Kayla, Maddie, Alex, Nell and Wes already. This only made the book better, if you ask me.
The story is fully enticing from start to end. The characters have depth and are interesting to follow. The two storylines is one of my favourite things about this whole series. The tragedy and happiness all assembled in one book, it’s amazing. It’s lovely.
I can’t wait to read the next one!
I am currently deep in exams, chores and work, so I needed something that could bring me different emotions, easy enjoyment and a story to completely make me forget all around me. This book was the perfect one for all that.
I started this series by reading the third book, so I knew Kayla, Maddie, Alex, Nell and Wes already. This only made the book better, if you ask me.
The story is fully enticing from start to end. The characters have depth and are interesting to follow. The two storylines is one of my favourite things about this whole series. The tragedy and happiness all assembled in one book, it’s amazing. It’s lovely.
I can’t wait to read the next one!
August 20, 2025
Okay read
This book was an average read. I gave it a 3, because I thought it a little far fetched for the female character to cancel her wedding because of a picture that she has to have.
To no avail, I thought she would somehow break the spell and he would transform in her time and they would fall in love. Instead she managed to call off her wedding, quit her job, and stayed at a strange man’s house in search of a picture.
I was thrown off a little to find the female character attracted to this stranger, they had sex and he proposed.
It did keep my attention because I truly thought she would come back around to Jago.
Sorry, it wasn’t for me.
This book was an average read. I gave it a 3, because I thought it a little far fetched for the female character to cancel her wedding because of a picture that she has to have.
To no avail, I thought she would somehow break the spell and he would transform in her time and they would fall in love. Instead she managed to call off her wedding, quit her job, and stayed at a strange man’s house in search of a picture.
I was thrown off a little to find the female character attracted to this stranger, they had sex and he proposed.
It did keep my attention because I truly thought she would come back around to Jago.
Sorry, it wasn’t for me.
January 31, 2018
Un libro sencillo con dos historias en su interior: un actual, la que más que gustó. Wes, un noble, conoce a la protagonista Kayla, y entre ellos nace una historia dulce como apasionada. Son dos personas que lo han pasado mal en el amor y que encuentran, el uno en el otro, esa pieza que faltaba en su vida. La histria que nos lleva al pasado es corta, intensa y fantásticas, con ese Jago, guapo y con sonrisa de pirata. Este personaje me ha gustado muchísimo.
Tardé en leerla porque no le pude dedicar todo el tiempo. Eso, sí, es sencilla de leer y pasas un buen rato. Recomendable.
Tardé en leerla porque no le pude dedicar todo el tiempo. Eso, sí, es sencilla de leer y pasas un buen rato. Recomendable.
March 28, 2020
Encontré este libro de recomendaciones para historias sobre viajes en el tiempo, pero no se trata completamente de eso. Es una historia romántica y a pesar de que la trama comenzó a atraparme me dejó mucho que desear.
La parte romántica y sobrenatural se convirtió en algo soso y plano y lo lamenté mucho por la historia, de los personajes mejor ni hablar, les falta mucho trabajo para que sobresalgan.
La parte romántica y sobrenatural se convirtió en algo soso y plano y lo lamenté mucho por la historia, de los personajes mejor ni hablar, les falta mucho trabajo para que sobresalgan.
June 20, 2020
The Marcombes
Having inherited an unexpected legacy Kayla purchases a portrait of an unknown gentleman at an auction at Sotheby’s. From the moment it is delivered to her flat she finds herself on an unexpected visit to a stately home in Devon. What follows is a series of events culminating with the portrait being reunited with the other portrait which had been painted at the same time
Having inherited an unexpected legacy Kayla purchases a portrait of an unknown gentleman at an auction at Sotheby’s. From the moment it is delivered to her flat she finds herself on an unexpected visit to a stately home in Devon. What follows is a series of events culminating with the portrait being reunited with the other portrait which had been painted at the same time
February 23, 2022
A lovely diversion from the ills of the world. The real strength to me was in Christina Courtenay's ability to create a mood and sustain it throughout the book. I loved the romanticism: a touch of the supernatural, a talking portrait, a Gypsy with second sight, sea and storms, the dangers of a cliff. I wish there were a genre other than romance that had the same feel but if there is I haven't found it. And, really, what is not to like about happily-ever-after?
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