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Idyllwild #1
Portrait of Passion
What’s a gentleman to do when a mysterious lady with a secret past and a reputation frayed around the edges suddenly appears in London in pursuit of his naive young cousin, setting the gossips’ tongues wagging, stirring his family into pandemonium, and driving him mad with her irreverent ways?
If the gentleman in question is Simon Carlisle, Viscount Easton, the answer is quite simple. Seduce the beguiling lady. But Miss Beatrice Morgan isn’t your average tarnished lady. She’s lived a slapdash life wandering the globe like a gypsy, painting fantastical portraits of duchesses and landscapes featuring a crumbling old fountain, all the while harboring a secret desire to return to the only home she’s ever known.
Will Beatrice sacrifice her honor, her virtue, her very heart to reclaim Idyllwild?
This book was previously published by the same title. While I have made minor revisions and given it a beautiful new cover and fresh edits, the story remains a spicy, sensual tale filled with all sorts of dallying, frolicking and even a hint of debauchery. And very little of the fun takes place behind closed doors.
If the gentleman in question is Simon Carlisle, Viscount Easton, the answer is quite simple. Seduce the beguiling lady. But Miss Beatrice Morgan isn’t your average tarnished lady. She’s lived a slapdash life wandering the globe like a gypsy, painting fantastical portraits of duchesses and landscapes featuring a crumbling old fountain, all the while harboring a secret desire to return to the only home she’s ever known.
Will Beatrice sacrifice her honor, her virtue, her very heart to reclaim Idyllwild?
This book was previously published by the same title. While I have made minor revisions and given it a beautiful new cover and fresh edits, the story remains a spicy, sensual tale filled with all sorts of dallying, frolicking and even a hint of debauchery. And very little of the fun takes place behind closed doors.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2013
147 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Barron
8 books232 followersWrite About What You Know.
Every Creative Writing Teacher and College Professor said these words to Lynne Barron in one form or another. But what did she know?
She knew she enjoyed the guilty pleasure of reading romance novels whenever she could find time between studying, working and raising her son as a single mother.
She knew quite a bit about women's lives in the Regency and Victorian era from years spent bouncing back and forth between European History and English Literature as a major in college.
She knew precious little about romance except to know that it was more than the cliché card and a dozen red roses on Valentine's Day.
Then she met her wonderfully romantic husband and finally she knew.
Passion, Love and Romance.
And she began to write.
If you would like to learn more about Lynne Barron and the Idyllwild Series, please visit her website at LynneBarron.com or follow her at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LynneBarronR...
Every Creative Writing Teacher and College Professor said these words to Lynne Barron in one form or another. But what did she know?
She knew she enjoyed the guilty pleasure of reading romance novels whenever she could find time between studying, working and raising her son as a single mother.
She knew quite a bit about women's lives in the Regency and Victorian era from years spent bouncing back and forth between European History and English Literature as a major in college.
She knew precious little about romance except to know that it was more than the cliché card and a dozen red roses on Valentine's Day.
Then she met her wonderfully romantic husband and finally she knew.
Passion, Love and Romance.
And she began to write.
If you would like to learn more about Lynne Barron and the Idyllwild Series, please visit her website at LynneBarron.com or follow her at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LynneBarronR...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 9, 2016
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
Beatrice's had an amazing and happy childhood with her family and friends. Until one day, after her father's death, they get kicked out of this beautiful house she grew up in, and she makes it her mission to get it back at all costs.
When the book starts, we see that Beatrice actually has a plan to get her home back after all these years, and she has people helping her, too. As the story progresses, we find out more and more about Bea's plan, and how hard it if for her to go through with it in the end. Especially since, along the way, she meets Simon and unexpectedly falls in love with him.
Bea and Simon are attracted to each other right away, and they don't like wasting time, that's for sure. They're all over each other since the very beginning.
And what a beautiful and strong couple they make!
Beatrice is a painter, and I do love characters who enjoy drawing or painting, so that was definitely a plus for me. And I really liked that she's an independent woman, we don't get to see that much in historical romances. Bea also has an amazing personality, she just doesn't care about what others think of her or what they might be saying behind her back (or even right next to her in some cases). And she always tries her best to be as happy as she can.
Simon is also an amazing character. I wasn't sure how I felt about him at first, but it was so adorable when he started to care about Bea and be sweet to her. The love he felt for her was really beautiful and endearing. But he seriously needs to get a hold of that impulsive behavior of his when he gets mad, he's lucky Bea is such a sweetheart and cares about him so much.
He still makes up for his mistakes though, it really broke my heart to see how awful he felt whenever he hurt Bea.
And it doesn't take him long to see that he wants Bea to be part of his life and starts seeing a future with her, even if society's (and his family's) expectations were so very much against the union.
The supporting characters were also great, I especially loved Olivia, and felt so bad for the life other people have decided for her.
This is already the second book I read by Lynne Barron, and I've noticed that she creates relationships where respect is so very important to both people involved, something which I really like :)
Definitely a great read for historical romance lovers!
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
Beatrice's had an amazing and happy childhood with her family and friends. Until one day, after her father's death, they get kicked out of this beautiful house she grew up in, and she makes it her mission to get it back at all costs.
When the book starts, we see that Beatrice actually has a plan to get her home back after all these years, and she has people helping her, too. As the story progresses, we find out more and more about Bea's plan, and how hard it if for her to go through with it in the end. Especially since, along the way, she meets Simon and unexpectedly falls in love with him.
Bea and Simon are attracted to each other right away, and they don't like wasting time, that's for sure. They're all over each other since the very beginning.
And what a beautiful and strong couple they make!
Beatrice is a painter, and I do love characters who enjoy drawing or painting, so that was definitely a plus for me. And I really liked that she's an independent woman, we don't get to see that much in historical romances. Bea also has an amazing personality, she just doesn't care about what others think of her or what they might be saying behind her back (or even right next to her in some cases). And she always tries her best to be as happy as she can.
Simon is also an amazing character. I wasn't sure how I felt about him at first, but it was so adorable when he started to care about Bea and be sweet to her. The love he felt for her was really beautiful and endearing. But he seriously needs to get a hold of that impulsive behavior of his when he gets mad, he's lucky Bea is such a sweetheart and cares about him so much.
He still makes up for his mistakes though, it really broke my heart to see how awful he felt whenever he hurt Bea.
And it doesn't take him long to see that he wants Bea to be part of his life and starts seeing a future with her, even if society's (and his family's) expectations were so very much against the union.
The supporting characters were also great, I especially loved Olivia, and felt so bad for the life other people have decided for her.
This is already the second book I read by Lynne Barron, and I've noticed that she creates relationships where respect is so very important to both people involved, something which I really like :)
Definitely a great read for historical romance lovers!
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
May 31, 2016
What a wonderful book this was! With a strong female character in Beatrice and an equally strong character in Simon the story flowed through ups and downs seamlessly as the story unfolded. The supporting characters did just what they were meant to do while providing sufficient information for me to want to read more about them in future books of the series.
Obsession can lead us to make decisions that impact our lives for better or for worse. Beatrice’s desire to return to the childhood home she felt belonged rightfully to her lead her to set a plan in motion that by the end of the book required some deep soul searching on her part.
Simon is not sure what to make of Beatrice when she arrives in London. His first impressions and even second and third ones are not quite on the mark but he eventually, as things become clearer, realizes he must reassess his life goals and dreams and society’s expectations before deciding what he really wants and what he is willing to do to achieve his desires.
I really liked this book. It was not the typical historical romance because it made me think and care and wonder and hope for the happily ever after that most in the positions of Simon and Beatrice probably never were able to achieve. It made me think about societal and parental expectations and how difficult it sometimes is to achieve true happiness no matter what age one lives in.
I would like to thank the author’s publicist for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Obsession can lead us to make decisions that impact our lives for better or for worse. Beatrice’s desire to return to the childhood home she felt belonged rightfully to her lead her to set a plan in motion that by the end of the book required some deep soul searching on her part.
Simon is not sure what to make of Beatrice when she arrives in London. His first impressions and even second and third ones are not quite on the mark but he eventually, as things become clearer, realizes he must reassess his life goals and dreams and society’s expectations before deciding what he really wants and what he is willing to do to achieve his desires.
I really liked this book. It was not the typical historical romance because it made me think and care and wonder and hope for the happily ever after that most in the positions of Simon and Beatrice probably never were able to achieve. It made me think about societal and parental expectations and how difficult it sometimes is to achieve true happiness no matter what age one lives in.
I would like to thank the author’s publicist for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 13, 2016
***Provided a copy in exchange of an honest review***
What I liked:
Beatrice- Beatrice is a painter, and I love characters who enjoy art so that was amazing to see. She is also a very independent woman which I also loved because we don’t get to see that type of character quite often in historical fiction books. Beatrice couldn’t care less about what people think of her. I am envious of her confidence. All and all, Beatrice always tries her best to be happy.
Simon- Simon is also a great character. At first I will admit I wasn’t a huge fan of his, but I definitely ended up enjoying his character. He was adorable and sweet towards Bea. He does have some flaws like when he is mad. It also shattered my heart when we see how awful he felt whenever he hurt Bea.
Secondary characters- The secondary characters are great! My favorite would most definitely be Olivia.
Chemistry- Beatrice and Simon have so much chemistry! I loved watching their relationship grow. I was also happy when Simon changed his mind about having Bea as his Mistress to wanting her as his wife.
All the personalities of the characters mixed wonderfully together. This story is utterly captivating and I completely recommend it. The reader could feel all the characters emotions quite literally. Whenever Bea was heartbroken, you wanted to break down with her. I will definitely keep re-reading this book!
What I liked:
Beatrice- Beatrice is a painter, and I love characters who enjoy art so that was amazing to see. She is also a very independent woman which I also loved because we don’t get to see that type of character quite often in historical fiction books. Beatrice couldn’t care less about what people think of her. I am envious of her confidence. All and all, Beatrice always tries her best to be happy.
Simon- Simon is also a great character. At first I will admit I wasn’t a huge fan of his, but I definitely ended up enjoying his character. He was adorable and sweet towards Bea. He does have some flaws like when he is mad. It also shattered my heart when we see how awful he felt whenever he hurt Bea.
Secondary characters- The secondary characters are great! My favorite would most definitely be Olivia.
Chemistry- Beatrice and Simon have so much chemistry! I loved watching their relationship grow. I was also happy when Simon changed his mind about having Bea as his Mistress to wanting her as his wife.
All the personalities of the characters mixed wonderfully together. This story is utterly captivating and I completely recommend it. The reader could feel all the characters emotions quite literally. Whenever Bea was heartbroken, you wanted to break down with her. I will definitely keep re-reading this book!
August 7, 2016
This is my first story by the author and I’m oh, so happy I got the chance to read it. It was passionate, sweet, raw, and steamy, all beautifully combined into a seamlessly concoction of a satisfying love tale.
Our heroine had a flair for honesty and forwardness that was deemed as brazen by the ton but in my eyes she simply sounded fresh and candid. I’ve read other heroines that had to be portrayed as heedless and bossy in order to sound strong but that was not the case here. Beatrice was strong-minded, resolute, and a bit ahead of her time but never sounded annoying. That’s always a plus in my book.
Simon, was also a strong character and the chemistry between the two was off the charts. At the beginning he’s skeptical of Beatrice’s motives to have approached his family and well into the story he goes as far as believing what they say about her but once he uncovers the truth, her past, and her true motives, he realizes how much he loves her and does everything within his power to make her stay with him.
The heart of the story is of course the romance and the connection between the main characters but there is also a mystery to be unraveled that had me connecting the dots and guessing until the end.
The author Lynne Barron is now an auto-buy and I will definitely continue reading the other books in the series.
** I was gifted a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an hones review **
Our heroine had a flair for honesty and forwardness that was deemed as brazen by the ton but in my eyes she simply sounded fresh and candid. I’ve read other heroines that had to be portrayed as heedless and bossy in order to sound strong but that was not the case here. Beatrice was strong-minded, resolute, and a bit ahead of her time but never sounded annoying. That’s always a plus in my book.
Simon, was also a strong character and the chemistry between the two was off the charts. At the beginning he’s skeptical of Beatrice’s motives to have approached his family and well into the story he goes as far as believing what they say about her but once he uncovers the truth, her past, and her true motives, he realizes how much he loves her and does everything within his power to make her stay with him.
The heart of the story is of course the romance and the connection between the main characters but there is also a mystery to be unraveled that had me connecting the dots and guessing until the end.
The author Lynne Barron is now an auto-buy and I will definitely continue reading the other books in the series.
** I was gifted a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an hones review **
October 7, 2017
I got lost enough in this romance between the fiercely determined Beatrice (my grandma's name) and Simon that I allowed time to melt. I could have read this romance in historical or modern times. It was smooth and applicable to either time frame. Bea was strong, INDEPENDENT, resourceful, carefree, courageous, exuberant person. She keeps her head on her shoulders and press forward. She had a plan and allowed nothing to get in her way. Simon was the older, wiser cousin to the Earl and he thought he was on protection duty. There was much her to enjoy. I loved getting to know all the characters not just Bea and Simon.
Portrait of Passion was sweet, delightful, historical read of a strong, independent young female with a plan to gain her family heritage back. She just never expected to find love along the way. Simon was the kind of hero that you fall in love with early on. He was a strong man that knew the value of family and how to protect them. He may have went about protecting his cousin from Bea in an non-traditional way but the job was done. Bea was not with his cousin. Bea was almost unexpected. She had a plan, friends and determination. The combination of it all gave passion, chemistry, a certain intensity, a few tears, raw innocence, and more.
Ms. Barron had earned herself a reader. This was a romance, not just historical, this was a romance that could cross lines and make you enjoy whatever time period you are in.
Portrait of Passion was sweet, delightful, historical read of a strong, independent young female with a plan to gain her family heritage back. She just never expected to find love along the way. Simon was the kind of hero that you fall in love with early on. He was a strong man that knew the value of family and how to protect them. He may have went about protecting his cousin from Bea in an non-traditional way but the job was done. Bea was not with his cousin. Bea was almost unexpected. She had a plan, friends and determination. The combination of it all gave passion, chemistry, a certain intensity, a few tears, raw innocence, and more.
Ms. Barron had earned herself a reader. This was a romance, not just historical, this was a romance that could cross lines and make you enjoy whatever time period you are in.
May 28, 2016
** A free copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. **
This was a strong yet delicate romance. The female lead is an independent and carefree spirit with a plan for her future. I laughed at her actions and wish I could have her courage. I fell for "Simon" before the second chapter ended. I completely empathized with him at moments and he imprinted my heart. What an entertaining read that seared itself on my soul.
This was a strong yet delicate romance. The female lead is an independent and carefree spirit with a plan for her future. I laughed at her actions and wish I could have her courage. I fell for "Simon" before the second chapter ended. I completely empathized with him at moments and he imprinted my heart. What an entertaining read that seared itself on my soul.
November 10, 2017
I liked the characters from the very beginning, especially serious Simon. But it took me a bit to really understand Beatrice. She seemed flighty, maybe too modern, and just odd to me at times. However, by the end, I was very happy that I'd come to know her. And her self discovery at the end was very poignant.
The heavy mystery in the beginning also sometimes annoyed me. But when it starts to unfold, it all makes perfect sense.
All in all, an excellent story.
The heavy mystery in the beginning also sometimes annoyed me. But when it starts to unfold, it all makes perfect sense.
All in all, an excellent story.
January 19, 2016
I read them out of order I don’t care. Book One in the Idyllwild series by Lynne Barron is a fantastic piece of romance perfection. We get to see an artist born on the wrong side of the sheets fall head over heals for a Viscount. Portrait of Passion’s character’s are the kind that stick with you long after you are done reading the book.
Miss Beatrice Morgan also known to the art world as B Morgan has lived in Paris and countless other European cities painting and being the life of the party. But when she happened upon the Earl of Hasting, Henry Tinsdale, at a party in Paris she knows their is no time like the present to gain back her childhood home of Idyllwild. The home that was so rudely taken away from her and her mother nine years prior after the death of her Father. The estate was entitled and the verbal agreement was not upheld so with the help of friends Bea, her mother and two close friends traveled to Paris. Bea followed Henry to London in hopes in getting in his good graces so that she could lease Idyllwild from him. Never intending to tell him the truth of who she is to him. But she never knew she would also met Olivia, Lady Palmerton or Lord Simon Easton. She soon became fast friends with the trio of them, with Simon something more.
Simon Easton was instantly taken with the stunning woman who dared to wear scarlet red. She stirred up the gossip on the arm of the older Viscount Moorehead, ensuing the tale that she is his latest mistress, it mattered not to Simon he was utterly captivated. Uncaring about London society insisted friends call her Beatrice and for go such formal titles. Bea’s free spirit might not be what Simon needs he is still trying to raise the standards of his family name after his father ran it into the ground, siring bastard child after bastard child. Simon has made it his duty to do right by them and prove he is nothing like his father. After one kiss with the mysterious Bea and he knew she was his and he would never let her go.
Time passes and the love between Simon and Bea grows. First Simon is determined to make her his mistress and then quickly changes his mind and wants her for his wife. But the secrets Bea has been keeping from him just might threaten everything, and when Henry’s mother comes back from rusticating in the country and reveals the truth mixed with lies and her own vindictive hatred and threatens everything. Simon knows Bea will stop at nothing to get back her childhood home, but was making him fall in love with her all part of the plan?
Steamy hot, sweet and heart wrenching story. I love the characters, Bea so conflicted and heartbroken you just want to break down and cry with her. Simon so hard and loving at one point you just want to strangle him and then kiss him. If I thought Widow’s Wicked Wish was WOW this one is by far beyond WOW. This is one of those books you want to keep with you forever, just carry it around in your bag so it’s close by, re-read it over and over. I can’t wait for book three where Henry finally gets his story because if it’s anything like the first two books… I’m giddy with excitement.
Miss Beatrice Morgan also known to the art world as B Morgan has lived in Paris and countless other European cities painting and being the life of the party. But when she happened upon the Earl of Hasting, Henry Tinsdale, at a party in Paris she knows their is no time like the present to gain back her childhood home of Idyllwild. The home that was so rudely taken away from her and her mother nine years prior after the death of her Father. The estate was entitled and the verbal agreement was not upheld so with the help of friends Bea, her mother and two close friends traveled to Paris. Bea followed Henry to London in hopes in getting in his good graces so that she could lease Idyllwild from him. Never intending to tell him the truth of who she is to him. But she never knew she would also met Olivia, Lady Palmerton or Lord Simon Easton. She soon became fast friends with the trio of them, with Simon something more.
Simon Easton was instantly taken with the stunning woman who dared to wear scarlet red. She stirred up the gossip on the arm of the older Viscount Moorehead, ensuing the tale that she is his latest mistress, it mattered not to Simon he was utterly captivated. Uncaring about London society insisted friends call her Beatrice and for go such formal titles. Bea’s free spirit might not be what Simon needs he is still trying to raise the standards of his family name after his father ran it into the ground, siring bastard child after bastard child. Simon has made it his duty to do right by them and prove he is nothing like his father. After one kiss with the mysterious Bea and he knew she was his and he would never let her go.
Time passes and the love between Simon and Bea grows. First Simon is determined to make her his mistress and then quickly changes his mind and wants her for his wife. But the secrets Bea has been keeping from him just might threaten everything, and when Henry’s mother comes back from rusticating in the country and reveals the truth mixed with lies and her own vindictive hatred and threatens everything. Simon knows Bea will stop at nothing to get back her childhood home, but was making him fall in love with her all part of the plan?
Steamy hot, sweet and heart wrenching story. I love the characters, Bea so conflicted and heartbroken you just want to break down and cry with her. Simon so hard and loving at one point you just want to strangle him and then kiss him. If I thought Widow’s Wicked Wish was WOW this one is by far beyond WOW. This is one of those books you want to keep with you forever, just carry it around in your bag so it’s close by, re-read it over and over. I can’t wait for book three where Henry finally gets his story because if it’s anything like the first two books… I’m giddy with excitement.
September 19, 2016
Great love story. I had tears in my eyes for a few parts and smiled at other parts. I road the roller-coaster with the characters.
July 12, 2016
Miss Beatrice Morgan was forced to grow up the day her Father died and all she thought she knew about her life changed. Getting her home back by any means necessary has been her soul purpose in life. Living abroad has taught her how to manage the silly fobs of the ton without being rude; a trait that has served her well and she’s hoping will serve her in getting her home back. What she doesn’t count on is developing feelings for her the man who is her mark; or the woman she thought she’d never meet; and most of all not falling in love with a Viscount.
Simon Carlisle, Viscount Easton, a serious man seems to always be watching his foolish young cousin’s back. Now is no exception. Fascinated by young woman no one seems to know much about he is disturbed when she shows a marked interest in his cousin and it comes to light she may have followed him to London. So what’s a responsible Viscount to do? Intervene of course.
I absolutely loved this well written tale by Lynne Barron! It started with heart racing action and never stopped. I adored Bea’s determination laced with innocence and watching the seemingly straight laced Simon have his world turned upside down by a slip of a girl. And when Bea’s plan seemed to go up in smoke and the subsequent outcome…have the Kleenexes handy!!!
Simon Carlisle, Viscount Easton, a serious man seems to always be watching his foolish young cousin’s back. Now is no exception. Fascinated by young woman no one seems to know much about he is disturbed when she shows a marked interest in his cousin and it comes to light she may have followed him to London. So what’s a responsible Viscount to do? Intervene of course.
I absolutely loved this well written tale by Lynne Barron! It started with heart racing action and never stopped. I adored Bea’s determination laced with innocence and watching the seemingly straight laced Simon have his world turned upside down by a slip of a girl. And when Bea’s plan seemed to go up in smoke and the subsequent outcome…have the Kleenexes handy!!!
May 23, 2016
Portrait of Passion is my first book by Lynne Barron. I'm doing a little happy dance because I can add another author to my follow list. I didn't really expect much from an author I had never heard of but jeeze, what a fantastic surprise. Portrait of Passion is a well written book, a very smooth read, no choppiness. The characters are well developed and amazing. I loved them! Beatrice and Simon's story is loaded with drama, suspense, humor and sizzling hot sexy bits. This is a book that's hard to put down. Portrait of Passion is book 1 of the Idyllwild Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger. I enjoyed Portrait of Passion from cover to cover and I look forward to reading more from Lynne Barron soon.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2017
It was a Good read. Beautifully written (but I could do with less sex). It has enough mystery, romance and conflicts to capture the reader's imagination and attention. I would suggest that an author of this caliber can write a fine romance without having too many sex scenes involved. The intricate way that the author has woven the threads of Beatrice's life in Idyllwild and her memories of her father and the threads of her half~siblings (and their cousin Simon's) storylines were masterfully done. Ms. Barron is quite good with pathos and suspense so there is not quite so much of a need for several sex scenes (which I skimmed through, just to get to the meat of the story).
May 22, 2016
I loved this book. Bea, the heroine, is not always proper and that's what makes her so endearing. She loves to be barefooted, laughs loudly, stands too close when speaking to another and is a gifted artist.
The hero, Simon, can't wait to seduce Bea, thinking that it is just for sport.
Little did they both know, life does not always go as planned.
This book is filled with passion, dreams, romance and heartache.
I can't wait for the next installment in the Idyllwild series!
The hero, Simon, can't wait to seduce Bea, thinking that it is just for sport.
Little did they both know, life does not always go as planned.
This book is filled with passion, dreams, romance and heartache.
I can't wait for the next installment in the Idyllwild series!
July 6, 2016
This is the first book I've read by Lynne Barron. I will definitely looking for more of her books. Loved the chemistry between Beatrice and Simon! I liked that I didn't know right off what was going on and why Beatrice was so secretive about who she was and her journey!
June 23, 2016
This was a great book,looking forward to reading the next in the series to see what happens.
February 3, 2017
Passionate Tale
I loved reading the story of Beatrice and Simon. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I loved reading the story of Beatrice and Simon. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
August 3, 2017
Good
I liked this book through most of it. The first half had some dragging periods but it became intriguing and compelling in the last half.
I liked this book through most of it. The first half had some dragging periods but it became intriguing and compelling in the last half.
November 18, 2019
So, the writing style of this was great. I loved the heroine and the side characters and most of the backstory. However, at 74% I had to stop reading, and I absolutely won’t finish this book. Not only does the hero take every opportunity he can to think the worst of the heroine, even though he knows the people he is getting his information from are not reliable, but - and this just really ruins it for me, he plans to rape her, twice. For some unholy reason the text presents the sex in these two events as passionate and pleasant for the heroine, but honestly? I can’t root for a piece of sh*** who basically decides itˋs okay to assault a woman who trusts him, just because she didn’t tell him the truth about absolutely everything......
I‘m not putting this under a spoiler, because if a romance novel has two rape scenes I feel like readers should be warned beforehand....
I‘m not putting this under a spoiler, because if a romance novel has two rape scenes I feel like readers should be warned beforehand....
May 30, 2017
Mixed feelings on this one (slightly spoiler filled)
Overall could have been enjoyable except much of my interest in the book was Simon turning into such a jerk. For a guy who is supposedly so clever, introspective, and contained he uncharacteristically makes emotionally driven assumptions about Bea and her motives and acts meanly, even violently. Then Bea just gets over it, even taking the blame on herself!
Otherwise the story was appealing, characters were interesting, though if the author intended the slow reveal to be a surprise, she failed miserably.
Side note, the book could use a decent copy edit, especially the nearer to the end you get.
Overall could have been enjoyable except much of my interest in the book was Simon turning into such a jerk. For a guy who is supposedly so clever, introspective, and contained he uncharacteristically makes emotionally driven assumptions about Bea and her motives and acts meanly, even violently. Then Bea just gets over it, even taking the blame on herself!
Otherwise the story was appealing, characters were interesting, though if the author intended the slow reveal to be a surprise, she failed miserably.
Side note, the book could use a decent copy edit, especially the nearer to the end you get.
May 19, 2017
Great romance with strong, likeable characters.
July 7, 2018
Some twists and turns so pretty good. Beatrice and Simon fall in love as Bea tries to reclaim her childhood home.
May 22, 2017
A Strong Story that Warmed my heart.
This book warmed my heart. I Enjoyed reading it aloud to my husband. Looking forward to reading the other books by Lynne Barron.
This book warmed my heart. I Enjoyed reading it aloud to my husband. Looking forward to reading the other books by Lynne Barron.
April 15, 2014
Very hot, super sweet, and a lovely historical romance, Portrait of Passion was a wonderful read. I really enjoyed reading this delightful book.
Beatrice was a good heroine. She was independent, strong, and determined to make her own way in life. However, I did have one issue with her. I understood why she wanted to reclaim Idyllwild so much, but it was so frustrating how she let herself deceive the people around her and, even when they offered her true friendship, she chose reclaiming the cottage over them. It seemed very selfish. But, she did come to her senses eventually, so I was okay with her.
Simon was wonderful. He was very sweet, loyal to his family, and adorable in general. He could be a bit of a jerk, because he had a tendency to jump to conclusions without actually asking for the full story. But, overall, I liked him.
The romance was HOT. Beatrice and Simon had some serious chemistry going on and it got very steamy. But they were also sweet together, when they both finally let their walls down. I thought they were great together.
The plot was good and I was kept interested the entire way through. There were tons of secrets along the way that took me by surprise, though the reveals could be a tad overdramatic. A couple of things that bothered me a bit was that 1) it was a little weird that Beatrice was originally intending to flirt with Henry to get the deed to Idyllwild, considering their relationship, and 2) because of Beatrice's relationship to Henry, does that make her related to Simon? It just got a little weird. But, I still enjoyed the story and the ending was lovely.
Portrait of Passion was a wonderful historical/erotic romance. I enjoyed reading this lovely book. Romance lovers, this is a book that you might want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Beatrice was a good heroine. She was independent, strong, and determined to make her own way in life. However, I did have one issue with her. I understood why she wanted to reclaim Idyllwild so much, but it was so frustrating how she let herself deceive the people around her and, even when they offered her true friendship, she chose reclaiming the cottage over them. It seemed very selfish. But, she did come to her senses eventually, so I was okay with her.
Simon was wonderful. He was very sweet, loyal to his family, and adorable in general. He could be a bit of a jerk, because he had a tendency to jump to conclusions without actually asking for the full story. But, overall, I liked him.
The romance was HOT. Beatrice and Simon had some serious chemistry going on and it got very steamy. But they were also sweet together, when they both finally let their walls down. I thought they were great together.
The plot was good and I was kept interested the entire way through. There were tons of secrets along the way that took me by surprise, though the reveals could be a tad overdramatic. A couple of things that bothered me a bit was that 1) it was a little weird that Beatrice was originally intending to flirt with Henry to get the deed to Idyllwild, considering their relationship, and 2) because of Beatrice's relationship to Henry, does that make her related to Simon? It just got a little weird. But, I still enjoyed the story and the ending was lovely.
Portrait of Passion was a wonderful historical/erotic romance. I enjoyed reading this lovely book. Romance lovers, this is a book that you might want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
October 1, 2016
The ton is taken aback when the beguiling and mysterious Beatrice Morgan arrives in London from Paris and flirts shamelessly, almost scandalously, with Simon Carlisle, Viscount Easton in her first society appearance. For his part, Simon is intrigued and attracted to her as he has been to no other woman. The fiercely independent and fiery Beatrice is a puzzle he cannot figure out with a past clearly full of secrets. Beatrice has made her living as an artist, saving her funds to reclaim her family's home in England. Simon's cousin's Henry, the Earl of Hastings, and his sister, Lady Palmerton, are somehow tied up in her plans, but Simon is unable to deduce just where they fit in to her schemes. Will Beatrice sacrifice everything--including her chance for finding true love with Simon--in her bid to reclaim her family's home, or will her feelings for Simon and her growing affection for Henry and Olivia compel her to abandon her single-minded efforts of nearly a decade?
Lynne Barron's novels feature complex plots and well-developed characters and Portrait of Passion did not disappoint. The intricate plot of this stunning book kept me guessing right up until the end. Each character is multi-faceted and comes vividly to life, but Beatrice is so well drawn that even as she laughs and flirts through London's ballrooms and drawing rooms, her childhood scars leap off the page. The transformation both Simon and Beatrice undergo as a result of the incredible chemistry between them is fascinating, and their wicked banter is by turns sexy and funny. Having gotten a taste for the strong, vibrant women Barron creates, I am looking forward to seeing Lady Palmerton grasp her chance at happiness in the next book in the Idyllwild series.
Lynne Barron's novels feature complex plots and well-developed characters and Portrait of Passion did not disappoint. The intricate plot of this stunning book kept me guessing right up until the end. Each character is multi-faceted and comes vividly to life, but Beatrice is so well drawn that even as she laughs and flirts through London's ballrooms and drawing rooms, her childhood scars leap off the page. The transformation both Simon and Beatrice undergo as a result of the incredible chemistry between them is fascinating, and their wicked banter is by turns sexy and funny. Having gotten a taste for the strong, vibrant women Barron creates, I am looking forward to seeing Lady Palmerton grasp her chance at happiness in the next book in the Idyllwild series.
September 6, 2016
This was my first book by Lynne Barron and it definitely won't be my last. It was fantastic! I loved so much about it. The characters were so complex and interesting. Beatrice was just fascinating....she was such an unusual combination of characteristics. There were so many layers to what made her unique and captivating. She was so much a product of her past that it shaped and motivated her in the extreme. It was riveting to see what she would do next. Then there was her relationship with Simon. Wow...the heat generated between these two could light up a whole city. While the intimate moments between them were extremely erotic, they were also so much more. Very descriptive, the passion between them was expressed in such an way that I could feel the emotional intensity along with them. Lynne Barron is very good with descriptive language and gives us every detail and every nuance so that I almost felt as though I were watching the story unfold. This was a beautifully written tale and I am eager to see what else Lynne Barron has in store.
July 6, 2017
Idyllwild #1 was an excellent story of one woman's quest to reclaim her family home. As the daughter of a noble woman she knew how to interact in social circles, though her mother choose love and choose the life of a mistress to the man she loved. Thus the loss of the main character's home.
Both the main character and her mother are artists of some note, as they were able to make enough money to survive well with the aid of old family friends to move about on the fringes of society seeking clients and commissions. This is more the story of reuniting with 1/2 siblings and confronting the horrid woman who prevented her mother from marrying her father. This is a story of family found and a treasure once sought not being the memory she wanted to hold onto, as a new love out shone the now dimmed treasure. Well written. It had some new vocabulary words for my collection.
Both the main character and her mother are artists of some note, as they were able to make enough money to survive well with the aid of old family friends to move about on the fringes of society seeking clients and commissions. This is more the story of reuniting with 1/2 siblings and confronting the horrid woman who prevented her mother from marrying her father. This is a story of family found and a treasure once sought not being the memory she wanted to hold onto, as a new love out shone the now dimmed treasure. Well written. It had some new vocabulary words for my collection.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2014
I read book 2 then 3. Now I am going back and reading book 1. I really enjoyed this book just as much as the other 2.
This story was Filled with Passion, mystery, intrigue and did I say Passion? lol
So you have Beatrice Morgan and she is....determined. Determined to reclaim what is rightfully hers Idyllwild. She will do whatever she has to to return.
Then you have Simon who is a Viscount and a overall good guy. He is trying to look out for his young cousin the Earl, and keep him from the trap that is Beatrice Morgan.
But not all is what it seems lots of secrets come to life and the plot thickens........Do they come together and work together to be one?????
I loved Beatrice and Simon chemistry.....WOW! My Kindle was Steaming up! Great read! great book!
This story was Filled with Passion, mystery, intrigue and did I say Passion? lol
So you have Beatrice Morgan and she is....determined. Determined to reclaim what is rightfully hers Idyllwild. She will do whatever she has to to return.
Then you have Simon who is a Viscount and a overall good guy. He is trying to look out for his young cousin the Earl, and keep him from the trap that is Beatrice Morgan.
But not all is what it seems lots of secrets come to life and the plot thickens........Do they come together and work together to be one?????
I loved Beatrice and Simon chemistry.....WOW! My Kindle was Steaming up! Great read! great book!
March 4, 2014
Lynne Brown portrays Regency England as a time when a generation of children had to pay for the debts their parents incurred. Young lords and cousins, Easton and Hastings express a desire to marry for love but their parents raise them to believe that romantic love isn’t practical. Beatrice Morgan catches their eyes, an impetuous woman who acts on gut feelings, putting aside propriety frequently. She shocks society with her bluntness and living as a painter.
The remainder of my review can be read in the March/April 2014 issue of BTS emag found here: http://issuu.com/btsemag/docs/mar-apr...
The remainder of my review can be read in the March/April 2014 issue of BTS emag found here: http://issuu.com/btsemag/docs/mar-apr...
June 15, 2014
4.5 stars
An exciting, passionate start to the Idyllwild series. I enjoyed Simon & Bea's story with all it's sweet romance, fiery passion and intense emotion.
Full review to come on 3chicksafterdark.com.
An exciting, passionate start to the Idyllwild series. I enjoyed Simon & Bea's story with all it's sweet romance, fiery passion and intense emotion.
Full review to come on 3chicksafterdark.com.
November 4, 2013
Review can be read in full at http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-rev...
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