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The Sullyard Sisters #1
Color of Deception
When artist Kitty Sullyard draws a strange symbol in her toy panorama, she doesn’t expect it to be life threatening. Tossed into a situation she never asked for, she learns the hard way who not to trust. After Kitty mysteriously disappears, Nathaniel Bexley has only a single clue with which to find her. It’s something only he would know. Will he be able to decipher the secret message she’s hidden in a drawing, or will Kitty be doomed to the hands of her kidnappers?
178 pages, Paperback
Published March 28, 2016
6 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Ruth J. Hartman
56 books203 followersRuth J. Hartman spends her days herding cats, and her nights spinning mysterious tales that make you smile. She, her husband, and their cats love to spend time curled up in their recliners watching old Cary Grant movies. Well, the cats sit in the people's recliners. Not that the cats couldn't get their own furniture. They just choose to shed on someone else's.
Ruth, a left-handed, cat-herding, farmhouse-dwelling mystery writer uses her goofy sense of humor as she writes tales of klutzy women who find trouble without even trying. Ruth's husband and best friend, Garry, reads her manuscripts, rolls his eyes at her weird story ideas, and loves her in spite of her insistence that all of her books have at least one cat in them.
Ruth, a left-handed, cat-herding, farmhouse-dwelling mystery writer uses her goofy sense of humor as she writes tales of klutzy women who find trouble without even trying. Ruth's husband and best friend, Garry, reads her manuscripts, rolls his eyes at her weird story ideas, and loves her in spite of her insistence that all of her books have at least one cat in them.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 16, 2016
Color of Deception is a fun story with great characters, but I wish the suspense played a larger role. The book started with Kitty's kidnapping before flashing back to the events leading up to it, but it was more than two-thirds through before any part of the story related to that incident came to light. Other than that, though, this was a classic Ruth J. Hartman novel, quickly enfolding the reader in its cozy and sweet world.
March 28, 2017
*I got a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Well, this really wasn't what I expected. The blurb made it seem like a mystery or action story, but even though the story started off with Kitty's kidnapping, it wasn't really a main conflict of the book and only appeared maybe about three-quarters till the end.
The majority of the book focused on the romance between Nathaniel and Kitty, and don't get me wrong - I'm a sucker for romance - but I felt like, although they had cute moments together, the beginning of their relationship simply seemed too fast, too obsessive, and overcome by infatuation.
I do understand that this was a case of insta-attraction, but there was something about Kitty's physical flawlessness and the extent of physical attraction that made it a bumpy beginning.
I have to admit that my favorite part of the story was the last one-fourth where a dangerous conflict was actually introduced, rather than the beginning, which consisted only of romance. I do feel like this intense contrast created a sense of disconnection - I still felt like I was reading the same book, but it was too sudden of a jump, making it seem a bit rushed.
Well, this really wasn't what I expected. The blurb made it seem like a mystery or action story, but even though the story started off with Kitty's kidnapping, it wasn't really a main conflict of the book and only appeared maybe about three-quarters till the end.
The majority of the book focused on the romance between Nathaniel and Kitty, and don't get me wrong - I'm a sucker for romance - but I felt like, although they had cute moments together, the beginning of their relationship simply seemed too fast, too obsessive, and overcome by infatuation.
I do understand that this was a case of insta-attraction, but there was something about Kitty's physical flawlessness and the extent of physical attraction that made it a bumpy beginning.
I have to admit that my favorite part of the story was the last one-fourth where a dangerous conflict was actually introduced, rather than the beginning, which consisted only of romance. I do feel like this intense contrast created a sense of disconnection - I still felt like I was reading the same book, but it was too sudden of a jump, making it seem a bit rushed.
January 14, 2016
I really enjoy Ruth Hartman's books, whether they are historical or modern day romances, she has a knack for writing characters that make you smile. She also knows how to capture characters that are just reprehensible and make your palms itch to slap them.
I love how she always includes cats in her books, being a cat lover herself. It's such a quaint trademark!
Kitty and Nathaniel are endearing characters and I enjoyed reading about them as their relationship slowly and sweetly develops. Her sisters, Lydia and Patience, are going to be interesting to read about as this series continues. Patience shocked me a bit at the end as I had this idea of her as the complete, innocent baby sister. Lydia was SUCH the annoying, pain in the butt sister, but near the end of the book, she makes a comment that had me lifting my eyebrow. Hmmm intriguing. I can't wait to read the next installment and see what Lydia gets up to.
I love how she always includes cats in her books, being a cat lover herself. It's such a quaint trademark!
Kitty and Nathaniel are endearing characters and I enjoyed reading about them as their relationship slowly and sweetly develops. Her sisters, Lydia and Patience, are going to be interesting to read about as this series continues. Patience shocked me a bit at the end as I had this idea of her as the complete, innocent baby sister. Lydia was SUCH the annoying, pain in the butt sister, but near the end of the book, she makes a comment that had me lifting my eyebrow. Hmmm intriguing. I can't wait to read the next installment and see what Lydia gets up to.
February 17, 2016
This is a strong opening to Ruth J. Hartman's new series. At first it seems like a Cinderella tale where the poor downtrodden heroine needs to be saved by the mild-mannered hero. But the reasons behind Kitty Sullyard's problems are not what they seem. I was a little confused at the ending - I may have to go back and read it again. But that would be okay, because it's enjoyable reading!
January 14, 2016
The Color of Deception (The Sullyard Sisters Book 1) by Ruth J. Hartman is a loving and deeply sweet historical romance wish splashes of mystery that will keep the reader craving more!
We are first met by Kitty (Katherine) as she struggles after being held captive in her uncles shed. Not sure what is going to happen to her she holds onto dear life and feigns being unconscious. We flashback to 1818 in Lambeth, England, three weeks earlier. We again are met by Kitty and she is in the colorman’s shop to buy some new paints for her and her sisters. Whilst at the shop a dashingly beautiful rake comes in to buy some colors, a Mr. Bexley. Immediately Kitty is drawn to him and knowing he’s a rake, she tries to engage in a game of innocent flirtation. However, she seems to have lost her voice and instead appears a rather odd creature, or so she fears. However, Mr. Bexley is also drawn to her and later upon arriving at his Father’s Magazine, where he works. He lets his cousin, Nathanial, whom is far lower in finances and status than he, know about the radiant beauty he had run into. Nathanial barely listens as he knows Stratford has only one thing in mind, to get under the girl’s skirts.
A few days later, Kitty and her sisters are selling their panorama paintings in the market and who happens upon Kitty, but none other than the rakish Stratford. However, momentarily he puts his rakish ways aside as he is truly struck by Kitty’s artistic abilities and invites her and her sister, Patience to come with him to his Father’s Magazine as he’d like to discuss employment. She hesitantly goes with him, only in hopes of gaining employment and therefore calming her uncle’s horrid temper and aiding them financially.
Stratford and the two Sullyard sisters arrive at the Magazine and Stratford introduces them to his cousin, Nathanial and he dashes off to speak with his father. Nathanial is immediately drawn to the beautiful and radiant Kitty. However, he knows that he’ll never gain her interest as the sweet, loving gentleman that he is, as she seems smitten with Stratford and there is no competing with Stratford. So he decides to play the part of the rake. Kitty and her sisters are offered employment by Stratford to paint some panorama’s for the magazine.
The next day, Nathanial arrives to pick Kitty up and take her to the races to do some painting. The whole time at the races, she’s so distracted by this dashingly handsome man, yet she’s also hesitant to get too close as he is a rake, or so she’s led to believe. After the race, Kitty and Nathanial take a walk and whilst on their walk a horse breaks free and jumps over the barrier and heads straight towards them. Nathanial instantly goes to Kitty’s aid and holds her close so she does not become trampled on by the racing horse. She’s taken by his kindness and as weeks go by, she’s finding herself more and more drawn to Nathanial. Nathanial, already smitten with Kitty, begins finding himself more and more falling deeply in love with her, but fearing she’s drawn to Stratford and knowing he can’t give her the life she truly deserves, for his meager wages at the Magazine would barely provide for a wife … so he begins to lose heart. Will Nathanial open up to Kitty and express his true feelings and his true person; the sweet, loving man that he is? Will Kitty open her heart and lovingly accept Nathanial or will she fall into the snares that Stratford has set for her?
This is a first in a wonderful series to come, I absolutely loved it and it give it a 5+ Stars! This is the first story of Ruth J. Hartman’s that I’ve read and I must say I am highly impressed. Ruth has such an amazing gift and talent for writing, she has quite a way with words and can weave the most beautiful tales and love and woe! The plot is very deep and flows beautifully and she takes the reader on some amazing twists and turns which keeps you on the edge of your seat and also some splashes of humor throughout! The reader will not only fall in love with the main characters but also the minor characters such as the sisters’ quirky yet lovable great-aunt. This is truly a remarkable read and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
***I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
We are first met by Kitty (Katherine) as she struggles after being held captive in her uncles shed. Not sure what is going to happen to her she holds onto dear life and feigns being unconscious. We flashback to 1818 in Lambeth, England, three weeks earlier. We again are met by Kitty and she is in the colorman’s shop to buy some new paints for her and her sisters. Whilst at the shop a dashingly beautiful rake comes in to buy some colors, a Mr. Bexley. Immediately Kitty is drawn to him and knowing he’s a rake, she tries to engage in a game of innocent flirtation. However, she seems to have lost her voice and instead appears a rather odd creature, or so she fears. However, Mr. Bexley is also drawn to her and later upon arriving at his Father’s Magazine, where he works. He lets his cousin, Nathanial, whom is far lower in finances and status than he, know about the radiant beauty he had run into. Nathanial barely listens as he knows Stratford has only one thing in mind, to get under the girl’s skirts.
A few days later, Kitty and her sisters are selling their panorama paintings in the market and who happens upon Kitty, but none other than the rakish Stratford. However, momentarily he puts his rakish ways aside as he is truly struck by Kitty’s artistic abilities and invites her and her sister, Patience to come with him to his Father’s Magazine as he’d like to discuss employment. She hesitantly goes with him, only in hopes of gaining employment and therefore calming her uncle’s horrid temper and aiding them financially.
Stratford and the two Sullyard sisters arrive at the Magazine and Stratford introduces them to his cousin, Nathanial and he dashes off to speak with his father. Nathanial is immediately drawn to the beautiful and radiant Kitty. However, he knows that he’ll never gain her interest as the sweet, loving gentleman that he is, as she seems smitten with Stratford and there is no competing with Stratford. So he decides to play the part of the rake. Kitty and her sisters are offered employment by Stratford to paint some panorama’s for the magazine.
The next day, Nathanial arrives to pick Kitty up and take her to the races to do some painting. The whole time at the races, she’s so distracted by this dashingly handsome man, yet she’s also hesitant to get too close as he is a rake, or so she’s led to believe. After the race, Kitty and Nathanial take a walk and whilst on their walk a horse breaks free and jumps over the barrier and heads straight towards them. Nathanial instantly goes to Kitty’s aid and holds her close so she does not become trampled on by the racing horse. She’s taken by his kindness and as weeks go by, she’s finding herself more and more drawn to Nathanial. Nathanial, already smitten with Kitty, begins finding himself more and more falling deeply in love with her, but fearing she’s drawn to Stratford and knowing he can’t give her the life she truly deserves, for his meager wages at the Magazine would barely provide for a wife … so he begins to lose heart. Will Nathanial open up to Kitty and express his true feelings and his true person; the sweet, loving man that he is? Will Kitty open her heart and lovingly accept Nathanial or will she fall into the snares that Stratford has set for her?
This is a first in a wonderful series to come, I absolutely loved it and it give it a 5+ Stars! This is the first story of Ruth J. Hartman’s that I’ve read and I must say I am highly impressed. Ruth has such an amazing gift and talent for writing, she has quite a way with words and can weave the most beautiful tales and love and woe! The plot is very deep and flows beautifully and she takes the reader on some amazing twists and turns which keeps you on the edge of your seat and also some splashes of humor throughout! The reader will not only fall in love with the main characters but also the minor characters such as the sisters’ quirky yet lovable great-aunt. This is truly a remarkable read and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
***I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
February 10, 2016
Kitty Sullyard is a talented young lady who draws panoramas. Because their cousin Robert, with whom they live, is no longer able to work as an artist, they are always in dire financial straits. As a result, Robert orders Kitty and her sisters to hawk their wares on street corners and bazaars.
Nathaniel Bexley closely resembles his cousin Stratford in appearance but not in temperament. Stratford is a rake, living for nothing but pursuing women, using them, and then tossing them aside. Nathaniel has never done more than held a woman’s hand and perhaps stolen a kiss and he envies his cousin his success if not his methods. Because he is lame, Nathaniel is shy and not very forward when it comes to women.
When Nathaniel and Stratford meet Kitty, they both set their sights on her for different reasons, Nathaniel’s being the more honorable.
Stratford arranges for Kitty to be hired by Sporting Magazine, owned and operated by his father. Her panoramas will be used to promote the magazine’s circulation. He and Nathaniel are both employed there though Nathaniel does most of the work. Soon it’s a race between the two to see who can win Kitty’s affections, with Nathaniel deciding he needs to be more like Stratford, more rakish, more daring, if he’s to get Kitty to even notice him. He doesn’t realize Kitty is drawn to him because of his manners and sensitivity as much as she’s repelled by the way Stratford acts.
When Cousin Robert demands Kitty respond to Stratford’s overtures in order to keep her job at the magazine, Nathaniel believes he’s lost her. Then Kitty disappears, and his search for her reveals exactly how much he cares, as well as uncovering a most devious plot which may cost his beloved artist her life.
As usual, Ruth J. Hartman has penned a lovely Regency story filled with love, obstacles, and a bit of danger. She deftly describes the three main characters vividly and their predicament in a way that will make the reader cheer for Nathaniel, likewise dislike Stratford, and worry about Kitty’s safety. Lighthearted in places, it’s balanced by the anxiety Kitty faces in trying to obey her uncle while hiding her love for Nathaniel, as well as Nathaniel’s doubt in himself when it comes to women and his determination to do whatever it takes to win Kitty, even to the point of besmirching his own character a bit.
Though there are a couple of homonym mistakes and some grammatical errors, those don’t detract from the story itself. Readers should enjoy this novel with its romantic triangle and tinge of danger and will hurry to find its sequel Color of Darkness.
This novel was supplied by the author and no remuneration was involved in the writing of this review.
Nathaniel Bexley closely resembles his cousin Stratford in appearance but not in temperament. Stratford is a rake, living for nothing but pursuing women, using them, and then tossing them aside. Nathaniel has never done more than held a woman’s hand and perhaps stolen a kiss and he envies his cousin his success if not his methods. Because he is lame, Nathaniel is shy and not very forward when it comes to women.
When Nathaniel and Stratford meet Kitty, they both set their sights on her for different reasons, Nathaniel’s being the more honorable.
Stratford arranges for Kitty to be hired by Sporting Magazine, owned and operated by his father. Her panoramas will be used to promote the magazine’s circulation. He and Nathaniel are both employed there though Nathaniel does most of the work. Soon it’s a race between the two to see who can win Kitty’s affections, with Nathaniel deciding he needs to be more like Stratford, more rakish, more daring, if he’s to get Kitty to even notice him. He doesn’t realize Kitty is drawn to him because of his manners and sensitivity as much as she’s repelled by the way Stratford acts.
When Cousin Robert demands Kitty respond to Stratford’s overtures in order to keep her job at the magazine, Nathaniel believes he’s lost her. Then Kitty disappears, and his search for her reveals exactly how much he cares, as well as uncovering a most devious plot which may cost his beloved artist her life.
As usual, Ruth J. Hartman has penned a lovely Regency story filled with love, obstacles, and a bit of danger. She deftly describes the three main characters vividly and their predicament in a way that will make the reader cheer for Nathaniel, likewise dislike Stratford, and worry about Kitty’s safety. Lighthearted in places, it’s balanced by the anxiety Kitty faces in trying to obey her uncle while hiding her love for Nathaniel, as well as Nathaniel’s doubt in himself when it comes to women and his determination to do whatever it takes to win Kitty, even to the point of besmirching his own character a bit.
Though there are a couple of homonym mistakes and some grammatical errors, those don’t detract from the story itself. Readers should enjoy this novel with its romantic triangle and tinge of danger and will hurry to find its sequel Color of Darkness.
This novel was supplied by the author and no remuneration was involved in the writing of this review.
January 11, 2016
In this story, a flirt, a rake, and a gentlemen provide the amusement. Throw in a dash of suspense and that provides the drama.
It was interesting to see the role of heroine being played by a flirt. When I think of flirts, it brings to mind shallow, often times air headed, ladies who don't think of the consequences of their actions. Well, Kitty may seem like that in the beginning of this story. I didn't agree with her actions or thoughts.
"She was an admitted flirt and allowed men kisses and embraces, but Kitty didn't have experience with men beyond that point."
Why even go through that? I guess it's just her character.
However, it seems that she had some redeeming qualities. Not part of Beau Monde, she sketches and paints for a living. Well, for a living under the close scrutinization by her nasty Cousin Robert. Along with her sisters, she is forced to work to keep her home, constantly scared by veiled threats form their Cousin.
Kitty's sensibilities are up in the air when she meets the dashing rake Mr. Bexley and his cousin...Mr. Bexley. Yes, they have the same last name and even look a like. Poor Kitty, does not know what to do. Both vie for her attention, and she must make a choice.
Her choice isn't made easily, for Mr. Bexley (Stratford-the Rake), in order to seduce Kitty, offers to take her paintings and publish them in his father's sporting magazine. Nathaniel, the other Bexley, wants Kitty all to himself and creates the deception of himself being a rake. It is a conundrum and Kitty must choose between employment and romance.
It was interesting to see the hero having insecurities. He lamented the fact that he bore resemblance to Stratford.
"Would there ever be a special woman for Nathaniel? One with whome he could share everything--thoughts, dreams, love? A woman who would be interested in him for him instead of his resemblance to Stratford?"
He would continually second guess himself and the limp he had did not help his self esteem.
I found myself hoping that Kitty would make the right choice and at times I felt like shaking her. But, I did understand her reasons and in the end sympathized with her. She was definitely a character that had her flaws, as did Nathaniel and Stratford. Hopefully, I will be able to read about Stratford redeeming himself. (He might have an admirer in Lydia, Kitty's sister). It was a moderately paced story that did get exciting towards the end. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
It was interesting to see the role of heroine being played by a flirt. When I think of flirts, it brings to mind shallow, often times air headed, ladies who don't think of the consequences of their actions. Well, Kitty may seem like that in the beginning of this story. I didn't agree with her actions or thoughts.
"She was an admitted flirt and allowed men kisses and embraces, but Kitty didn't have experience with men beyond that point."
Why even go through that? I guess it's just her character.
However, it seems that she had some redeeming qualities. Not part of Beau Monde, she sketches and paints for a living. Well, for a living under the close scrutinization by her nasty Cousin Robert. Along with her sisters, she is forced to work to keep her home, constantly scared by veiled threats form their Cousin.
Kitty's sensibilities are up in the air when she meets the dashing rake Mr. Bexley and his cousin...Mr. Bexley. Yes, they have the same last name and even look a like. Poor Kitty, does not know what to do. Both vie for her attention, and she must make a choice.
Her choice isn't made easily, for Mr. Bexley (Stratford-the Rake), in order to seduce Kitty, offers to take her paintings and publish them in his father's sporting magazine. Nathaniel, the other Bexley, wants Kitty all to himself and creates the deception of himself being a rake. It is a conundrum and Kitty must choose between employment and romance.
It was interesting to see the hero having insecurities. He lamented the fact that he bore resemblance to Stratford.
"Would there ever be a special woman for Nathaniel? One with whome he could share everything--thoughts, dreams, love? A woman who would be interested in him for him instead of his resemblance to Stratford?"
He would continually second guess himself and the limp he had did not help his self esteem.
I found myself hoping that Kitty would make the right choice and at times I felt like shaking her. But, I did understand her reasons and in the end sympathized with her. She was definitely a character that had her flaws, as did Nathaniel and Stratford. Hopefully, I will be able to read about Stratford redeeming himself. (He might have an admirer in Lydia, Kitty's sister). It was a moderately paced story that did get exciting towards the end. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
January 14, 2016
This was another sweet and enjoyable read from the mind of Ruth J. Hartman! This book contained everything that I have come to expect from reading one of her stories - there were flawed characters that were well developed, a sweet (and clean aside from a few kisses) romance, a cat (seriously - all of her novels manage to sneak at least one adorable cat in), and enough suspense and intrigue to tie everything into a nearly perfect package.
I do have to admit that I would have loved to read more about certain aspects of the overall story (that I unfortunately can't go into too much without giving too much away), but I wish there had been more when it came to their cousin Robert, and again when it came to the kidnappers. I felt there was a great potential for a showdown that was just never fulfilled.
However, even without that, the romance between Nathaniel and Kitty more than made up for what I felt was missing. Theirs was not an easy road, but somehow they made it work. I especially liked the fact that these were not your typical characters. Nathaniel had a physical disability that he worked hard to hide, whilst Kitty came from a family who needed to work in order to make ends meet (not to mention the fact that she was a self-proclaimed flirt). It was a refreshing change from the characters you usually see within these types of novels.
In closing, I have to say that I cannot wait for the next installment in this series. I absolutely loathed Nathaniel's cousin Stratford in this story - however Ruth has an unusual gift of taking even the most despicable of characters and giving them redeeming qualities later on - and since the next book centers on him - I can't wait to see what she comes up with! It is sure to be brilliant!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
I do have to admit that I would have loved to read more about certain aspects of the overall story (that I unfortunately can't go into too much without giving too much away), but I wish there had been more when it came to their cousin Robert, and again when it came to the kidnappers. I felt there was a great potential for a showdown that was just never fulfilled.
However, even without that, the romance between Nathaniel and Kitty more than made up for what I felt was missing. Theirs was not an easy road, but somehow they made it work. I especially liked the fact that these were not your typical characters. Nathaniel had a physical disability that he worked hard to hide, whilst Kitty came from a family who needed to work in order to make ends meet (not to mention the fact that she was a self-proclaimed flirt). It was a refreshing change from the characters you usually see within these types of novels.
In closing, I have to say that I cannot wait for the next installment in this series. I absolutely loathed Nathaniel's cousin Stratford in this story - however Ruth has an unusual gift of taking even the most despicable of characters and giving them redeeming qualities later on - and since the next book centers on him - I can't wait to see what she comes up with! It is sure to be brilliant!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
June 14, 2016
I know that I'm always in for a sweet, romantic adventure when I pick up one of Ruth Hartman's books and Color of Deception managed lived up to my expectations. However, this time, not only did I get a romantic adventure, but I got bit of a mystery as well.
Stanford and Nathaniel Bexley couldn't be more different -- well, except for the fact that they look alike. Stanford is a rake in every sense of the word. He seems to believe that women exist purely for his enjoyment. Nathaniel is sweet - plain and simple he's the good guy, the one that is always overshadowed by the likes of his cousin.
Kitty Sullyard is admittedly a bit of a flirt, but her intentions are purely innocent. Who can blame her for wanting to have a little fun when she and her sisters are required to provide a living for their family by painting and selling miniature panoramas?
The story begins with Kitty being kidnapped, then backtracks to tell the story of how she arrived in such a predicament. Nathaniel was a easy for me to fall for as it was Kitty and Stanford was his classic foil. While it took awhile for the circumstances leading up to the kidnapping to be revealed, I enjoyed the relationship development between Kitty and Nathaniel along with the interplay between Kitty and her sisters. I will also say that while I am not a fan of Miss Queensbury, I do wish her character would have had some closure.
The mystery, suspense, and intrigue, while not a major part of the entire story, was a nice addition and rounded out the story quite well. I suspect more will be discovered as the series continues - and I look forward to those reads.
FYI ~ clean read
Honest disclosure ~ I received a review copy from the author
Stanford and Nathaniel Bexley couldn't be more different -- well, except for the fact that they look alike. Stanford is a rake in every sense of the word. He seems to believe that women exist purely for his enjoyment. Nathaniel is sweet - plain and simple he's the good guy, the one that is always overshadowed by the likes of his cousin.
Kitty Sullyard is admittedly a bit of a flirt, but her intentions are purely innocent. Who can blame her for wanting to have a little fun when she and her sisters are required to provide a living for their family by painting and selling miniature panoramas?
The story begins with Kitty being kidnapped, then backtracks to tell the story of how she arrived in such a predicament. Nathaniel was a easy for me to fall for as it was Kitty and Stanford was his classic foil. While it took awhile for the circumstances leading up to the kidnapping to be revealed, I enjoyed the relationship development between Kitty and Nathaniel along with the interplay between Kitty and her sisters. I will also say that while I am not a fan of Miss Queensbury, I do wish her character would have had some closure.
The mystery, suspense, and intrigue, while not a major part of the entire story, was a nice addition and rounded out the story quite well. I suspect more will be discovered as the series continues - and I look forward to those reads.
FYI ~ clean read
Honest disclosure ~ I received a review copy from the author
January 14, 2016
Color of Deception is book #1 in "The Sullyard Sisters" Trilogy, featuring three sisters, Kitty (the flirt),Patience(the baby) and Lydia (the annoying one) set in Regency England (Lambert). What a beginning! Well written in Ms. Hartman's usual aplomb, with engaging, endearing, independent, annoying and lovable characters. While, the storyline of three sisters living with a not so nice uncle, is not unique, the premise of selling toy panorama paintings
in the market is very unique for someone within the gentry.
Fast paced, with a kidnapping, a gentleman, a rake, mystery, a bit of suspense, deciphering a clue left within a panorama painting, and romance. Heartwarming, at times a bit humorous, sweet and a very enjoyable read. I read it in one setting. A clean Historical Romance. Fans of Regency Romance, clean Historical Romance, and a heartwarming romance will enjoy "Color of Deception". A must read! Very enjoyable and a nice, satisfying romance.
* Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
in the market is very unique for someone within the gentry.
Fast paced, with a kidnapping, a gentleman, a rake, mystery, a bit of suspense, deciphering a clue left within a panorama painting, and romance. Heartwarming, at times a bit humorous, sweet and a very enjoyable read. I read it in one setting. A clean Historical Romance. Fans of Regency Romance, clean Historical Romance, and a heartwarming romance will enjoy "Color of Deception". A must read! Very enjoyable and a nice, satisfying romance.
* Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
February 1, 2016
5++ stars!!
I absolutely loved Color of Deception by Ruth J Hartman! This one was a bit different than a lot of Ruth's other books. It had a bit of everything incorporated in it, a bit of suspense, a bit of mystery, humor and a sweet romance. I loved all of the characters in this one, they all made the story amazing. Kitty is a beautiful woman who attracts many men, mostly rakes who she will flirt with but will not let them get too close. She lives with her two sisters, her great-aunt and her uncle. Her uncle is their guardian and lets them know at every chance that their finances are seriously lacking. Nathaniel and Stratford are cousins who both work for the family business. Both men are quite taken by the beautiful Kitty and both want her for themselves, for very different reasons though. Ms Hartman has an incredible talent for writing, you feel as if you are actually apart of her characters and books. She always makes you laugh along with her characters and her ability to always include a cat is wonderful. Thank you, Ruth, for another wonderful story! I cannot wait for the second book in this series.
I absolutely loved Color of Deception by Ruth J Hartman! This one was a bit different than a lot of Ruth's other books. It had a bit of everything incorporated in it, a bit of suspense, a bit of mystery, humor and a sweet romance. I loved all of the characters in this one, they all made the story amazing. Kitty is a beautiful woman who attracts many men, mostly rakes who she will flirt with but will not let them get too close. She lives with her two sisters, her great-aunt and her uncle. Her uncle is their guardian and lets them know at every chance that their finances are seriously lacking. Nathaniel and Stratford are cousins who both work for the family business. Both men are quite taken by the beautiful Kitty and both want her for themselves, for very different reasons though. Ms Hartman has an incredible talent for writing, you feel as if you are actually apart of her characters and books. She always makes you laugh along with her characters and her ability to always include a cat is wonderful. Thank you, Ruth, for another wonderful story! I cannot wait for the second book in this series.
October 28, 2016
This was a sweet light read with a little mystery which is a great start to a new series. The author gives you a little of this and that to make this a very good read. This series is about 3 sisters who paint and try to sell their work to help take care of their family. One sister is kidnapped leaving Nathaniel on the hunt to bring her back alive.
This was a very charming read that holds your attention with its mystery. The characters are very likable you have no trouble relating to them. This was a delightful read which is fast pace, filled with a little action, a flirt, along with a man of honor. Who can resist this very lovely man who is after your own heart? Nathaniel must look for the clues in the painting if he hopes to find Kitty. This story did start off a little slow for me but before long the author pulled me right in making it a very fast read. I think most will enjoy this authors writing style.
Book Obsessed Chicks Review
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This was a very charming read that holds your attention with its mystery. The characters are very likable you have no trouble relating to them. This was a delightful read which is fast pace, filled with a little action, a flirt, along with a man of honor. Who can resist this very lovely man who is after your own heart? Nathaniel must look for the clues in the painting if he hopes to find Kitty. This story did start off a little slow for me but before long the author pulled me right in making it a very fast read. I think most will enjoy this authors writing style.
Book Obsessed Chicks Review
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January 21, 2016
I was so happy to see this was Book 1 - and that more would be coming! Had such fun reading this book, and seeing the characters develop and grow. It always makes me happy to see a strong female lead, and Ms. Hartman doesn't disappoint! But I was pleasantly surprised that the leading male character was not your typical male, it was such a refreshing change from so many of the books that I read - this one didn't conform to stereotypes and it was awesome! Just enough action, adventure and affection to keep me entertained! I'm ready for the next one!
April 19, 2016
A story of a young talented artist who with her two siblings paint to support her Family, being used by there cousin without their knowledge. It is a good story and a page turner.
I would have gladly given five stars except for the constant overuse of the word 'rake' I found this a bit annoying. but did enjoy this book and have already bought the next book in the series.
I would have gladly given five stars except for the constant overuse of the word 'rake' I found this a bit annoying. but did enjoy this book and have already bought the next book in the series.
September 15, 2017
Une histoire intéressante mais gâchée par des personnages masculins trop caricaturaux.....
February 18, 2016
The first of a series introduces the Sullyard sisters, young women who paint for a living in Regency England.
I found it fascinating to read a romance set in this time period and DOES NOT involve a handsome nobleman with a ton of money. Mr. Bexley is handsome, but he works for a magazine.And Kitty helps provide for her family by using her brush to paint.
That being said, I was not fond of Kitty at all. She is a self-proclaimed flirt, but dislikes the attention that being a flirt brings her. I just didn't find her character consistent or relatable.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review. My full review can be found at MoreThanAReview.com.
I found it fascinating to read a romance set in this time period and DOES NOT involve a handsome nobleman with a ton of money. Mr. Bexley is handsome, but he works for a magazine.And Kitty helps provide for her family by using her brush to paint.
That being said, I was not fond of Kitty at all. She is a self-proclaimed flirt, but dislikes the attention that being a flirt brings her. I just didn't find her character consistent or relatable.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review. My full review can be found at MoreThanAReview.com.
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