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Salt Hendon #2.5
Salt Hendon Collection Boxed Set
This special edition brings together two of Lucinda Brant's best-loved books, Salt Bride and its sequel Salt Redux. These books have sold nearly half a million copies and averaged over 4.4 stars from thousands of combined bookseller ratings and reviews worldwide. For this comprehensive edition we listened to reader requests; the original prologue to Salt Bride has been reinstated and the first edition cover art has been added. Also included is a 20,000-word bonus novella, Salt Angel, a new extended version of Fairy Christmas (previously published in A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection) featuring well-loved characters from the Salt books. The Salt Hendon Collection is a great introduction to Lucinda Brant's unique storytelling and her richly romantic 18th century world.
Awards for these books 2015 B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree (Salt Bride) 2013 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Medalist (Salt Redux) 2011 Australian Romance Readers Awards Finalist (Salt Bride) Reviews“A love story that fans of historical romance will relish, guiding the reader though the maze of misunderstandings without ever giving the game away.”— Fiona Ingram: 5 STARS Readers’ Favorite
"Dare I admit… I enjoyed Salt Bride more than many of Georgette Heyer’s own beloved works and that is high praise indeed." — Courtney Webb: Stiletto Storytime
"As the plot develops and darkens to a place where you start to squirm you realize that the imagery is spectacular.” — SWurman: 5 STAR Top Pick Night Owl Reviews
"The style of writing veers comfortably away from the sort of 'contrived speak' that flags—and trips up—modern writers." — Lady A~:Ye Bath Corner Review
Book DetailsSeries: Salt Hendon
Classification: Parental Guidance Recommended (mild sensuality)
Length: 260,000 words (about 1040 standard pages)
Edition: First edition
Style: Classic romance, similar to Regency noir
Many readers enjoy Lucinda Brant's books as part of a wider series since her characters inhabit the same meticulously-researched 18th Century world with people and events cross-referenced throughout. Should you wish to read each series in chronological order, here is the sequence:
Roxton Family Saga
1740s NOBLE SATYR (Renard and Antonia)
1760s MIDNIGHT MARRIAGE (Julian and Deb)
1770s AUTUMN DUCHESS (Antonia and Jonathon)
1770s DAIR DEVIL (Dair and Rory)
1770s PROUD MARY (Mary and Christopher) In progress
1780s SATYR’S SON (Henri-Antoine and Lisa) In progress
ETERNALLY YOURS: Roxton Letters Volume One (A Companion to the Roxton Family Saga Books 1–3)
FOREVER REMAIN: Roxton Letters Volume Two (A Companion to the Roxton Family Saga Books 4–6) In progress
Alec Halsey Mystery Series
Spring 1763 DEADLY ENGAGEMENT (Country house murder and mayhem)
Autumn 1763 DEADLY AFFAIR (A poisoned vicar and the mysterious Miranda)
Winter 1763 DEADLY PERIL (Bloody intrigue abroad)
Summer 1764 DEADL
Audible Audio
Published October 14, 2016
126 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
Lucinda Brant
40 books499 followersHello! I'm a history geek who loves the 18th Century!
I write about families, creating worlds that are full of history, heart, and Happily Ever Afters. When I'm not in my writing cave in the 1700s I live in the middle of a koala reserve, so the neighbors are cute and cuddly and sleep all day!
I write because I must, and I write from the heart, and only what I love to read.
My books have been on the New York Times, USA Today, Amazon, and Audible bestseller lists, and have won numerous awards. All are available as audiobooks narrated by British actors Alex Wyndham, Mary Jane Wells and Matthew Lloyd Davies, and voice talent Marian Hussey. My books are also available in translation— French, German, Italian, and Japanese languages. I love to hear from my readers.
I write about families, creating worlds that are full of history, heart, and Happily Ever Afters. When I'm not in my writing cave in the 1700s I live in the middle of a koala reserve, so the neighbors are cute and cuddly and sleep all day!
I write because I must, and I write from the heart, and only what I love to read.
My books have been on the New York Times, USA Today, Amazon, and Audible bestseller lists, and have won numerous awards. All are available as audiobooks narrated by British actors Alex Wyndham, Mary Jane Wells and Matthew Lloyd Davies, and voice talent Marian Hussey. My books are also available in translation— French, German, Italian, and Japanese languages. I love to hear from my readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 21, 2016
Historical romance lovers, here's a deal you will not want to miss out on. Three books (2 full-length stories and one novella) for just 1 Audible credit! Moreover, all of the stories are top-rate and the narration by Alex Wyndham is divine!
Book 1: Salt Bride
5 "Reneged Betrothal?" Stars for the story and 5 narration stars for Alex Wyndham's narration!
Containing a romance based on the misunderstanding trope, along with a suspense twist that includes a scheming, jealous relative with plans to marry the hero herself, Lucinda Brant delivers a compelling and addictive listen in the Salt Bride: A Georgian Historical Romance. This intriguing listen left me with no choice but to binge listen to this 12+ hour romance until the satisfying end even bypassing sleep to do so! Moreover, the soothing and sexy baritone voice of Alex Wyndham make this romance a fantastic choice to experience in audio format.
One night of premature, overzealous passion, and the perfect storm of ill-timed events, lead to both the happiest night and yet the most unfortunate series of events. Set in England in the 18th Century, these events eventually lead Jane Despard, a squire's daughter, to force the Earl of Salt Hendon to marry her--even if she will still be shunned by society for her sullied past. The fact that the Earl of Salt Hendon still has his own memories of that night (ones that he frequently revisits) is of little solace when he believes that Jane committed the biggest sin of all. But Salt is a man of his word and he will honor his deathbed promise to Jane's father unless he can convince Jane to release him of the obligation--a promise that he will thoroughly attempt to dissuade her from. What he doesn't know is that Jane is equally determined to go through with the marriage no matter what the consequence due to her own personal reasons.
Further complicating matters is Diana St. John, the widow of Salt's cousin and the mother of his two godchildren. Over the years, Diana has been aspiring and calculating how to further Salt's political career. Moreover, she has been effectively functioning as the Countess of Salt Hendon (in every way except for the bedroom) and fully expects to assume that role officially as soon as her scheming finally lands her the ultimate prize. Can there possibly be a HEA for Jane and Salt under the circumstances?
Alex Wyndham has become one of my favorite historical romance narrators, and his performance in Salt Bride is every bit the narration perfection that I have come to expect and enjoy from Mr. Wyndham. From his aristocratic, commanding Earl of Salt Hendon voice to Jane's sweet and loyal softer more feminine sounding voice, Mr. Wyndham is able to create spot on voices for all characters across genders. Mr. Wyndham also excels at delivering both the narratives and dialogues at just the right speed and with the appropriate pauses to make listening to this story seamless for the listener.
One plot point that I particularly enjoyed is that although this romance is based on the misunderstanding trope, the animosity between the main couple is expertly managed by Ms. Brant, so that by the time that the romance flourishes it is completely believable and heart-stirring. Additionally, I loved how Ms. Brant slowly introduces us to a whole cast of interesting secondary characters, who help round out and deepen the complexity of this story, including the couple who will no doubt be featured in book 2 of this series, Salt Redux: Lady Caroline (Salt's younger sister) and Sir Anthony (Diana's brother and Salt's brother-in-law).
All in all, the Salt Bride is a romance audiobook that historical romance lovers will not want to miss!
Book 2: Salt Redux
4.5 "2nd Chance at Romance or Revenge?" Stars for the story and 5 stars for the narration!
Please note that this book is the second in a series that should be listened to in chronological order as both the main romance, and particularly the suspense plot, are introduced in Book 1: Salt Bride. If you have not yet read or listened to Salt Bride, please see my review for that title as the below review contains spoilers for the first book.
I have often heard that there is a fine line between a genius and an insane person. Ms. Brant's portrayal of Diana St. John is the perfect depiction of this philosophical concept as can be evidenced by her extreme immoral actions towards obtaining her ultimate goal: the Earl of Salt Hendon. The fact that the Earl was married to another woman--a woman he loves--did not deter Diana from her insane machinations in the Salt Bride towards her ultimate goal. In Salt Redux, Ms. Brant really outdoes herself by giving us an even deeper glimpse into the ultimate depravity that Diana will sink to in her grandiose vision to both secure what she believes to be her rightful place as the Countess of Salt Hendon, as well as, her political maneuvering and strategizing to secure Salt's reentering of the political arena--even if she first has to escape banishment to do so!
In addition, to the suspense arc that was previously introduced in the Salt Bride, we also get to see whether the romantic arc first alluded to in the Salt Bride between Lady Caroline (Salt's younger sister) and Sir Anthony (Diana's brother and Salt's brother-in-law) can be carried to fruition. At the opening of Salt Redux this eventuality seems pretty remote as Sir Anthony (Tony) following his sister's banishment sinks to a new low heavily into his cups and manages to antagonize Salt with the kindle for a gossipmonger's dream. The ensuing scandal upsets Salt so much that he banishes Tony, his best friend and cousin, to Russia to a diplomatic position of low importance and one that British diplomats rarely make it back to Britain from. Can there possibly be a HEA for Caroline and Anthony under the circumstances?
We also get a glimpse of what four years of married bliss looks like for Jane and Salt, including their 3 children and 2 godchildren. We are also treated to a whole cast of other secondary characters and their inter-relationships with Salt's family, including a new addition, Kitty, who is the heroine of the next and final book in this series.
Alex Wyndham again delivers a pleasing and expert narration in Salt Redux. Mr. Wyndham adeptly manages to shift to Tony as the primary romantic hero by giving him a sexy and yet slightly less deep voice than Salt, making distinguishing between these two heroes who play a prominent role in Salt Redux, easy for the listener to do. Additionally, he again masters delivering distinguishable voices for the entire cast which grows even larger in Salt Redux. Perhaps one of Mr. Wyndham's strongest attributes as a narrator is that he is also able to communicate emotion in his rendition. From the fast-paced suspense scenes where Diana's incredible schemes feature prominently to the more romantic ones where old loves test their feelings for one another, Mr. Wyndham knows just the right tone to use to frame each scene.
All in all, Salt Redux is another historical romance audiobook hit! If you enjoyed the Salt Bride, I highly encourage you to give Salt Redux a listen!
Book 3: Salt Angel (novella length)
4.5 "It's never too late to marry for true love" Stars and 5 Stars for the narration!
As an added bonus, the box set contains a novella length third book to finish the series. Although only a little more than 2 hours in length, this Christmas themed novella is the perfect conclusion to a well done series. Moreover, the novella features two separate love stories that are nearly entirely self-contained in the novella (although it does contain spoilers for book 2 and therefore should be listened to last in the series) while still providing a glimpse into the lives of the Salt Hendon cast taking place after Caroline's and Tony's honeymoon.
The happy couples in this novella include Kitty Aldershot, Caroline's sister-in-law from her first marriage, a heroine who at the time of the novella resides in Salt's home, and Jane's brother, Tom, who first met at the masquerade in Book 2, Salt Redux. As well as, an elderly Russian Prince and Salt's and Tony's aunt who determine to eschew society's gossip and conventions and instead with the wisdom of years choose to marry for love rather than political gain.
Alex Wyndham again returns for the narration providing remarkable consistency in character voices and his pleasing baritone voice as music for your ears. What I enjoyed the most about his narration in Salt Angel was his elderly sounding Russian accented voice for the Russian prince which required Mr. Wyndham to show his remarkable range when it comes to producing unique voices.
All in all, the Salt Hendon Collection is a memorable series, all conveniently packaged in one box-set--and at the bargain price of just one credit--for your listening pleasure!
Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.
Book 1: Salt Bride
5 "Reneged Betrothal?" Stars for the story and 5 narration stars for Alex Wyndham's narration!
Containing a romance based on the misunderstanding trope, along with a suspense twist that includes a scheming, jealous relative with plans to marry the hero herself, Lucinda Brant delivers a compelling and addictive listen in the Salt Bride: A Georgian Historical Romance. This intriguing listen left me with no choice but to binge listen to this 12+ hour romance until the satisfying end even bypassing sleep to do so! Moreover, the soothing and sexy baritone voice of Alex Wyndham make this romance a fantastic choice to experience in audio format.
One night of premature, overzealous passion, and the perfect storm of ill-timed events, lead to both the happiest night and yet the most unfortunate series of events. Set in England in the 18th Century, these events eventually lead Jane Despard, a squire's daughter, to force the Earl of Salt Hendon to marry her--even if she will still be shunned by society for her sullied past. The fact that the Earl of Salt Hendon still has his own memories of that night (ones that he frequently revisits) is of little solace when he believes that Jane committed the biggest sin of all. But Salt is a man of his word and he will honor his deathbed promise to Jane's father unless he can convince Jane to release him of the obligation--a promise that he will thoroughly attempt to dissuade her from. What he doesn't know is that Jane is equally determined to go through with the marriage no matter what the consequence due to her own personal reasons.
Further complicating matters is Diana St. John, the widow of Salt's cousin and the mother of his two godchildren. Over the years, Diana has been aspiring and calculating how to further Salt's political career. Moreover, she has been effectively functioning as the Countess of Salt Hendon (in every way except for the bedroom) and fully expects to assume that role officially as soon as her scheming finally lands her the ultimate prize. Can there possibly be a HEA for Jane and Salt under the circumstances?
Alex Wyndham has become one of my favorite historical romance narrators, and his performance in Salt Bride is every bit the narration perfection that I have come to expect and enjoy from Mr. Wyndham. From his aristocratic, commanding Earl of Salt Hendon voice to Jane's sweet and loyal softer more feminine sounding voice, Mr. Wyndham is able to create spot on voices for all characters across genders. Mr. Wyndham also excels at delivering both the narratives and dialogues at just the right speed and with the appropriate pauses to make listening to this story seamless for the listener.
One plot point that I particularly enjoyed is that although this romance is based on the misunderstanding trope, the animosity between the main couple is expertly managed by Ms. Brant, so that by the time that the romance flourishes it is completely believable and heart-stirring. Additionally, I loved how Ms. Brant slowly introduces us to a whole cast of interesting secondary characters, who help round out and deepen the complexity of this story, including the couple who will no doubt be featured in book 2 of this series, Salt Redux: Lady Caroline (Salt's younger sister) and Sir Anthony (Diana's brother and Salt's brother-in-law).
All in all, the Salt Bride is a romance audiobook that historical romance lovers will not want to miss!
Book 2: Salt Redux
4.5 "2nd Chance at Romance or Revenge?" Stars for the story and 5 stars for the narration!
Please note that this book is the second in a series that should be listened to in chronological order as both the main romance, and particularly the suspense plot, are introduced in Book 1: Salt Bride. If you have not yet read or listened to Salt Bride, please see my review for that title as the below review contains spoilers for the first book.
I have often heard that there is a fine line between a genius and an insane person. Ms. Brant's portrayal of Diana St. John is the perfect depiction of this philosophical concept as can be evidenced by her extreme immoral actions towards obtaining her ultimate goal: the Earl of Salt Hendon. The fact that the Earl was married to another woman--a woman he loves--did not deter Diana from her insane machinations in the Salt Bride towards her ultimate goal. In Salt Redux, Ms. Brant really outdoes herself by giving us an even deeper glimpse into the ultimate depravity that Diana will sink to in her grandiose vision to both secure what she believes to be her rightful place as the Countess of Salt Hendon, as well as, her political maneuvering and strategizing to secure Salt's reentering of the political arena--even if she first has to escape banishment to do so!
In addition, to the suspense arc that was previously introduced in the Salt Bride, we also get to see whether the romantic arc first alluded to in the Salt Bride between Lady Caroline (Salt's younger sister) and Sir Anthony (Diana's brother and Salt's brother-in-law) can be carried to fruition. At the opening of Salt Redux this eventuality seems pretty remote as Sir Anthony (Tony) following his sister's banishment sinks to a new low heavily into his cups and manages to antagonize Salt with the kindle for a gossipmonger's dream. The ensuing scandal upsets Salt so much that he banishes Tony, his best friend and cousin, to Russia to a diplomatic position of low importance and one that British diplomats rarely make it back to Britain from. Can there possibly be a HEA for Caroline and Anthony under the circumstances?
We also get a glimpse of what four years of married bliss looks like for Jane and Salt, including their 3 children and 2 godchildren. We are also treated to a whole cast of other secondary characters and their inter-relationships with Salt's family, including a new addition, Kitty, who is the heroine of the next and final book in this series.
Alex Wyndham again delivers a pleasing and expert narration in Salt Redux. Mr. Wyndham adeptly manages to shift to Tony as the primary romantic hero by giving him a sexy and yet slightly less deep voice than Salt, making distinguishing between these two heroes who play a prominent role in Salt Redux, easy for the listener to do. Additionally, he again masters delivering distinguishable voices for the entire cast which grows even larger in Salt Redux. Perhaps one of Mr. Wyndham's strongest attributes as a narrator is that he is also able to communicate emotion in his rendition. From the fast-paced suspense scenes where Diana's incredible schemes feature prominently to the more romantic ones where old loves test their feelings for one another, Mr. Wyndham knows just the right tone to use to frame each scene.
All in all, Salt Redux is another historical romance audiobook hit! If you enjoyed the Salt Bride, I highly encourage you to give Salt Redux a listen!
Book 3: Salt Angel (novella length)
4.5 "It's never too late to marry for true love" Stars and 5 Stars for the narration!
As an added bonus, the box set contains a novella length third book to finish the series. Although only a little more than 2 hours in length, this Christmas themed novella is the perfect conclusion to a well done series. Moreover, the novella features two separate love stories that are nearly entirely self-contained in the novella (although it does contain spoilers for book 2 and therefore should be listened to last in the series) while still providing a glimpse into the lives of the Salt Hendon cast taking place after Caroline's and Tony's honeymoon.
The happy couples in this novella include Kitty Aldershot, Caroline's sister-in-law from her first marriage, a heroine who at the time of the novella resides in Salt's home, and Jane's brother, Tom, who first met at the masquerade in Book 2, Salt Redux. As well as, an elderly Russian Prince and Salt's and Tony's aunt who determine to eschew society's gossip and conventions and instead with the wisdom of years choose to marry for love rather than political gain.
Alex Wyndham again returns for the narration providing remarkable consistency in character voices and his pleasing baritone voice as music for your ears. What I enjoyed the most about his narration in Salt Angel was his elderly sounding Russian accented voice for the Russian prince which required Mr. Wyndham to show his remarkable range when it comes to producing unique voices.
All in all, the Salt Hendon Collection is a memorable series, all conveniently packaged in one box-set--and at the bargain price of just one credit--for your listening pleasure!
Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.
August 21, 2019
REVIEW OF SALT BRIDE
Whenever I open one of Lucinda Brant’s books, I know that I will find an engrossing and well-plotted story, richly drawn characters and a heart-warming romance.
When squire’s daughter, Jane Despard, and Magnus Sinclair, Earl of Salt Hendon (Salt), met at the Salt Hunt Ball four years ago, during Jane’s debut season, they fell deeply in love. After a month-long secret courtship, Salt proposed and Jane accepted. Succumbing to the moment, they made love in the summerhouse, but Salt was urgently called back to London promising that, on his return, their engagement would be made official and they would marry without delay. However, he failed to return and, finding herself pregnant, she wrote to him but there was still no response and a month later she received his letter breaking off their engagement. When Jane’s father, Sir Felix Despard, discovers her condition and she refuses to name the father, he disowns her, cutting her off without a penny and branding her a whore. Jane is only saved from a Bristol poorhouse, or worse, when she is taken in by Jacob Allenby, a wealthy Bristol merchant and brother of Lady Despard, Sir Felix’s second wife, but she loses her unborn baby under the most traumatic circumstances.
Jane and Salt have not met during the past four years, apart from one brief incident two years earlier, a humiliating experience for Jane. However, events are about to change that. Under the terms of Jacob Allenby’s will, Jane must marry by a certain date or her beloved step-brother, Tom, will not receive his full inheritance and to fulfil a promise given to Jane’s father on his deathbed, Salt must marry her. Not a propitious start to a marriage.
Jane cannot understand why Salt hates her so much and why he believes that he is the injured party. After all, she had never disclosed the name of her lover, and it was her life that was destroyed when he cruelly abandoned her to her fate. Gradually, as they spend time together, it is clear they have never stopped loving each other but they are unaware that Diana St. John is willing to go to any lengths to drive them apart.
Salt and Jane are such wonderful characters. Salt exudes power, wealth and authority but Jane is his Achilles heel. He struggles with hating Jane and wanting her at the same time and I enjoyed seeing him gradually soften towards her. He also shows a more relaxed side when he is with his godchildren, Ron and Merry. I loved the scene in the dining room where Jane, Ron and Merry are hiding under the table while Salt and best his friend, Sir Antony Templestowe, are pretending to look for the ‘rats’. Much giggling and laughter ensues which conjured up such a delightful picture in my mind.
Normally Salt is in full control, both mentally and physically but, when Jane’s stepbrother, Tom, tells him exactly what happened to Jane four years ago, he is totally devastated and collapses. Ms. Brant brings so much emotional intensity to this scene that it was as if Salt’s anguish was my own. This is also a defining moment in their relationship because, for the first time, they openly admit their love for each other.
“I love you, Jane.” It was a simple sentence, said simply.
She wasn’t at all sure he was in his right mind, or that he was restful of body, but it was all she had ever wanted to hear him say in the cold light of day since her eighteenth birthday. She smiled into his tired brown eyes and unconsciously sighed her contentment. Tears ran down her flushed face and she kissed his hand and pressed it to her cheek.
“I love you so very much I hate you for frightening me in this way!”
That he is willing to give up his high-profile political career to rusticate in the country in the role of doting husband and father shows the depth of his love for Jane
Jane is such a lovely heroine whose extraordinary beauty is further complimented by her kindness, generosity and sweet nature. I admire her for not letting the tragic events of the past crush her spirit of optimism and I love how she isn’t afraid to stand her ground where Salt is concerned. I cheered her on in the scene where Salt has his secretary, Ellis, read out the rules governing how Jane will live as the Countess of Salt Hendon, but Jane refuses to submit to his ‘insufferable arrogance'…
“This document, my lord,” asked Jane with studious enquiry, but unable to hide a sardonic dimple in her left cheek, “does it state terms by which you will conduct yourself as my husband?”
I also love the scene where she shocks him with her frank talk of sexual matters and her playfulness in the bedroom.
In Diana St. John, Ms. Brant has certainly created one of the most memorable villains I have come across. Her obsession with Salt has driven her positively deranged, but what is so scary is the fact that, on the surface, she appears perfectly sane. So much so that, at times, I was convinced her evil plans would succeed. Both devious and cunning, her wickedness knows no bounds which is evident in the events depicted in the harrowing Prologue. Although securely locked away somewhere in wilds of Wales at the end of SALT BRIDE, I know she returns in the sequel, SALT REDUX, to reek further havoc with her evil machinations.
Ms. Brant’s books always contain a colourful cast of secondary characters including Sir Antony Templestowe, Salt’s cousin and best friend, and Diana St. John’s younger brother; Tom Allenby, Jane’s step-brother, who always has her welfare at heart; Mr Ellis, Salt’s freckle-faced, hard-working secretary who has a soft spot for Jane; Hilary Wraxton, writer of ‘absurdly odd’ poetry.
Ms. Brant also brings delightful wit and humour to her stories and here are two of my favourite exchanges.
“How will you travel across the Continent if you cannot make a call of nature when we stop at an inn?” Lady Outram enquired.
The poet, who had perched uninvited on the padded arm of a wingchair, jabbed at his temple. “Up here for thinking, Lizzie. I am not just a man of letters, but of ideas.” He beamed at the Countess and said confidentially, “Had my man pack the family pot de chambre. Heirloom. Passed down from father to son since Scottish James sat upon the English throne. Painted with the family crest. On the inside.”
“How-how sensible of you, Mr. Wraxton,” Jane managed to reply, finding her breath and dabbing at her damp eyes. “A definite must for a trip to the Continent. Who knows what amenities are to be found, or not, at a foreign inn.”
♥♥♥
He gave a shout of laughter. “If it will make you happy, I shall abandon my ridiculous vanity and wear those wretched eyeglasses at the breakfast table. But be warned: A bespectacled Lord Salt perusing the newssheets is a sight almost as quelling as a flare of the noble nostrils.”
Jane smiled cheekily. “What an irresistible combination. My knees are trembling with anticipation already!”
♥♥♥
Ms. Brant effortlessly transported me back to Georgian England and her evocative descriptions of the settings, fashions, furnishings and social etiquette, all combine to bring the era vividly to life. Anyone who follows Ms. Brant’s Pinterest boards will know the extensive research she undertakes to ensure that every aspect is historically correct.
MY VERDICT: A compelling story, multi-layered characters, a heart-warming romance and a deranged but cunning villain, all combine to make SALT BRIDE a must read.
This review was first posted on Rakes and Rascals:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
Edited on 6th March 2018 to include reviews for SALT REDUX and SALT ANGEL
REVIEW OF SALT REDUX
Salt Redux, the second book in Lucinda Brant’s Salt Hendon series, opens four years after the end of Salt Bride.
The hero Sir Antony Templestowe, Diana’s younger brother and Salt’s cousin and closest friend and the heroine, Lady Caroline Sinclair, Salt’s younger sister, were secondary characters in Salt Bride and obviously in love with each other. However, Antony did not cope well with the knowledge of his sister’s evil crimes and his life soon spiralled out of control; he drank to excess, neglected his niece and nephew, made a fool of himself and threw away a promising diplomatic career. Things finally came to a head when he causes a very public scandal, not only breaking Caroline’s heart, but also embarrassing Salt’s wife and losing the Earl’s respect and friendship. Consequently, he was sent to take up a low level diplomatic position in St. Petersburg and, shortly afterwards, Caroline married someone else. Banishment probably saved his life because, if he hadn’t met Prince Mikhail and his sister, Antony would have drunk himself to death but, with their friendship and encouragement, he sobered up and made St. Petersburg his home.
While everyone thought that Diana was safely locked away in a remote castle in Wales, she was carefully plotting her escape. Her obsession with Salt had not abated and, having secured her freedom, she intends to wreak revenge on his hated wife, Jane. When Antony receives a letter advising him of his sister’s escape, he returns to England, determined to protect those he loves, only to find Diana ensconced in his house, hiding in plain sight. To avoid any scandal, only a handful of people know the truth about Diana and everyone else believes she has been abroad recovering from the heartbreak caused by Salt’s marriage to someone else, thus allowing her to ingratiate herself back into society.
For the past four years, Salt and Jane have been happily living in the country with their young family and Salt’s godchildren, Ron and Merry. However, they have recently returned to London so that Salt can resume his political career, only to discover that Diana has once more become a threat. Now they must all work together to thwart her insidious plans.
I like that both Antony and Caroline are flawed characters because it makes them seem more human and their journey more emotionally satisfying. At heart, Antony is an honourable man and I can understand his melt down and descent into alcoholism after discovering the evil his sister had perpetrated and his fear that he may suffer from the same madness. I like the realistic way in which Ms. Brant handles Antony’s alcoholism. Like all alcoholics, he must admit he has a problem and want to turn his life around and I love the scene where he admits to Caroline the reason for wanting to change.
“Misha opened my eyes and gave my compulsion a name. He made me come to terms with what I really am, to stare myself in the looking glass and say I am a habitual drunkard. But I still had to want to turn my life around, to have a reason to change, to change for the better.”
“Tell me,” she murmured. “What was your reason?”
He answered without hesitation. “You, Caro. I wanted to be able to ask you to marry me with a clean heart and a clear mind.”
I find the idea of Antony’s ritual tea making as a way of overcoming his craving for a drink by concentrating his mind on something else fascinating. I also admire him for his determination to face up to his responsibilities and his self-possession in dealing with his sister.
Caroline has her own secrets; a sordid past which makes her feel unworthy of someone as honourable as Antony, but I like how they are talk openly to each other and resolve the issues between them. Antony is not judgemental of Caroline and, in fact, blames himself for the headache she has suffered over the last four years.
The romance is emotional, tender and romantic and provides a welcome contrast to the drama surrounding Diana’s devious plotting. There are nail-biting moments when I was convinced her evil plans would finally succeed but, in a dramatic climax, Diana meets a rather grisly end.
Tom Allenby, Jane’s stepbrother, has an important role in the story and a new character, Katherine (Kitty) Aldershot, is introduced.
MY VERDICT: This is a wonderful blend of romance, suspense and intrigue.
♥♥♥♥♥♥
REVIEW OF SALT ANGEL
This charming novella sees Kitty Aldershot and Tom Allenby get their happy ending.
Kitty and Tom are a delightful couple. Tom is kind and steadfast and I admired him for the way he always looked after Jane (Countess of Salt Hendon) and was her stalwart defender when she needed him the most. I found the fact that he is rather flustered around Kitty rather endearing.
She took a step closer, the drawing folding in on itself, their fingers lightly touching, and her violet eyes widened in expectation, heart thudding in her chest. But he just stood there, smiling down at her, not saying a word.
I like how, despite her circumstances, Kitty has retained her youthful optimism, and also the way she does her best to repay the Salt Hendons for all their kindness. I felt her heartache when she reads Lady Caroline’s letter but admire her selflessness in not wanting to ruin Tom’s good name or his political prospects.
How could she tell him her feelings if she could not, in good conscience, accept an offer from him because a marriage with her would not only ostracize his family, but ruin his future prospects as a parliamentarian?
I was totally charmed by the elderly Russian Prince Timur-Alexei Nikolai Mordinov who turns out to be an unlikely ally for Tom and Kitty. The interactions between the prince and the eccentric Lady Reanay were entertaining and this couple prove that falling in love is not just the preserve of the young.
“Be warned! It can hit you at any time, at any place, and at any age! Falling in love is not confined to the young, Miss Aldershot.”– Prince Mordinov
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and it was the perfect ending to this series of stories.
OVERALL VERDICT: If you have never read any of Lucinda Brant’s books, this boxed set would be an excellent introduction to her wonderful stories, richly drawn characters and heart-warming romances.
These reviews were first posted on Rakes and Rascals:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
Whenever I open one of Lucinda Brant’s books, I know that I will find an engrossing and well-plotted story, richly drawn characters and a heart-warming romance.
When squire’s daughter, Jane Despard, and Magnus Sinclair, Earl of Salt Hendon (Salt), met at the Salt Hunt Ball four years ago, during Jane’s debut season, they fell deeply in love. After a month-long secret courtship, Salt proposed and Jane accepted. Succumbing to the moment, they made love in the summerhouse, but Salt was urgently called back to London promising that, on his return, their engagement would be made official and they would marry without delay. However, he failed to return and, finding herself pregnant, she wrote to him but there was still no response and a month later she received his letter breaking off their engagement. When Jane’s father, Sir Felix Despard, discovers her condition and she refuses to name the father, he disowns her, cutting her off without a penny and branding her a whore. Jane is only saved from a Bristol poorhouse, or worse, when she is taken in by Jacob Allenby, a wealthy Bristol merchant and brother of Lady Despard, Sir Felix’s second wife, but she loses her unborn baby under the most traumatic circumstances.
Jane and Salt have not met during the past four years, apart from one brief incident two years earlier, a humiliating experience for Jane. However, events are about to change that. Under the terms of Jacob Allenby’s will, Jane must marry by a certain date or her beloved step-brother, Tom, will not receive his full inheritance and to fulfil a promise given to Jane’s father on his deathbed, Salt must marry her. Not a propitious start to a marriage.
Jane cannot understand why Salt hates her so much and why he believes that he is the injured party. After all, she had never disclosed the name of her lover, and it was her life that was destroyed when he cruelly abandoned her to her fate. Gradually, as they spend time together, it is clear they have never stopped loving each other but they are unaware that Diana St. John is willing to go to any lengths to drive them apart.
Salt and Jane are such wonderful characters. Salt exudes power, wealth and authority but Jane is his Achilles heel. He struggles with hating Jane and wanting her at the same time and I enjoyed seeing him gradually soften towards her. He also shows a more relaxed side when he is with his godchildren, Ron and Merry. I loved the scene in the dining room where Jane, Ron and Merry are hiding under the table while Salt and best his friend, Sir Antony Templestowe, are pretending to look for the ‘rats’. Much giggling and laughter ensues which conjured up such a delightful picture in my mind.
Normally Salt is in full control, both mentally and physically but, when Jane’s stepbrother, Tom, tells him exactly what happened to Jane four years ago, he is totally devastated and collapses. Ms. Brant brings so much emotional intensity to this scene that it was as if Salt’s anguish was my own. This is also a defining moment in their relationship because, for the first time, they openly admit their love for each other.
“I love you, Jane.” It was a simple sentence, said simply.
She wasn’t at all sure he was in his right mind, or that he was restful of body, but it was all she had ever wanted to hear him say in the cold light of day since her eighteenth birthday. She smiled into his tired brown eyes and unconsciously sighed her contentment. Tears ran down her flushed face and she kissed his hand and pressed it to her cheek.
“I love you so very much I hate you for frightening me in this way!”
That he is willing to give up his high-profile political career to rusticate in the country in the role of doting husband and father shows the depth of his love for Jane
Jane is such a lovely heroine whose extraordinary beauty is further complimented by her kindness, generosity and sweet nature. I admire her for not letting the tragic events of the past crush her spirit of optimism and I love how she isn’t afraid to stand her ground where Salt is concerned. I cheered her on in the scene where Salt has his secretary, Ellis, read out the rules governing how Jane will live as the Countess of Salt Hendon, but Jane refuses to submit to his ‘insufferable arrogance'…
“This document, my lord,” asked Jane with studious enquiry, but unable to hide a sardonic dimple in her left cheek, “does it state terms by which you will conduct yourself as my husband?”
I also love the scene where she shocks him with her frank talk of sexual matters and her playfulness in the bedroom.
In Diana St. John, Ms. Brant has certainly created one of the most memorable villains I have come across. Her obsession with Salt has driven her positively deranged, but what is so scary is the fact that, on the surface, she appears perfectly sane. So much so that, at times, I was convinced her evil plans would succeed. Both devious and cunning, her wickedness knows no bounds which is evident in the events depicted in the harrowing Prologue. Although securely locked away somewhere in wilds of Wales at the end of SALT BRIDE, I know she returns in the sequel, SALT REDUX, to reek further havoc with her evil machinations.
Ms. Brant’s books always contain a colourful cast of secondary characters including Sir Antony Templestowe, Salt’s cousin and best friend, and Diana St. John’s younger brother; Tom Allenby, Jane’s step-brother, who always has her welfare at heart; Mr Ellis, Salt’s freckle-faced, hard-working secretary who has a soft spot for Jane; Hilary Wraxton, writer of ‘absurdly odd’ poetry.
Ms. Brant also brings delightful wit and humour to her stories and here are two of my favourite exchanges.
“How will you travel across the Continent if you cannot make a call of nature when we stop at an inn?” Lady Outram enquired.
The poet, who had perched uninvited on the padded arm of a wingchair, jabbed at his temple. “Up here for thinking, Lizzie. I am not just a man of letters, but of ideas.” He beamed at the Countess and said confidentially, “Had my man pack the family pot de chambre. Heirloom. Passed down from father to son since Scottish James sat upon the English throne. Painted with the family crest. On the inside.”
“How-how sensible of you, Mr. Wraxton,” Jane managed to reply, finding her breath and dabbing at her damp eyes. “A definite must for a trip to the Continent. Who knows what amenities are to be found, or not, at a foreign inn.”
♥♥♥
He gave a shout of laughter. “If it will make you happy, I shall abandon my ridiculous vanity and wear those wretched eyeglasses at the breakfast table. But be warned: A bespectacled Lord Salt perusing the newssheets is a sight almost as quelling as a flare of the noble nostrils.”
Jane smiled cheekily. “What an irresistible combination. My knees are trembling with anticipation already!”
♥♥♥
Ms. Brant effortlessly transported me back to Georgian England and her evocative descriptions of the settings, fashions, furnishings and social etiquette, all combine to bring the era vividly to life. Anyone who follows Ms. Brant’s Pinterest boards will know the extensive research she undertakes to ensure that every aspect is historically correct.
MY VERDICT: A compelling story, multi-layered characters, a heart-warming romance and a deranged but cunning villain, all combine to make SALT BRIDE a must read.
This review was first posted on Rakes and Rascals:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
Edited on 6th March 2018 to include reviews for SALT REDUX and SALT ANGEL
REVIEW OF SALT REDUX
Salt Redux, the second book in Lucinda Brant’s Salt Hendon series, opens four years after the end of Salt Bride.
The hero Sir Antony Templestowe, Diana’s younger brother and Salt’s cousin and closest friend and the heroine, Lady Caroline Sinclair, Salt’s younger sister, were secondary characters in Salt Bride and obviously in love with each other. However, Antony did not cope well with the knowledge of his sister’s evil crimes and his life soon spiralled out of control; he drank to excess, neglected his niece and nephew, made a fool of himself and threw away a promising diplomatic career. Things finally came to a head when he causes a very public scandal, not only breaking Caroline’s heart, but also embarrassing Salt’s wife and losing the Earl’s respect and friendship. Consequently, he was sent to take up a low level diplomatic position in St. Petersburg and, shortly afterwards, Caroline married someone else. Banishment probably saved his life because, if he hadn’t met Prince Mikhail and his sister, Antony would have drunk himself to death but, with their friendship and encouragement, he sobered up and made St. Petersburg his home.
While everyone thought that Diana was safely locked away in a remote castle in Wales, she was carefully plotting her escape. Her obsession with Salt had not abated and, having secured her freedom, she intends to wreak revenge on his hated wife, Jane. When Antony receives a letter advising him of his sister’s escape, he returns to England, determined to protect those he loves, only to find Diana ensconced in his house, hiding in plain sight. To avoid any scandal, only a handful of people know the truth about Diana and everyone else believes she has been abroad recovering from the heartbreak caused by Salt’s marriage to someone else, thus allowing her to ingratiate herself back into society.
For the past four years, Salt and Jane have been happily living in the country with their young family and Salt’s godchildren, Ron and Merry. However, they have recently returned to London so that Salt can resume his political career, only to discover that Diana has once more become a threat. Now they must all work together to thwart her insidious plans.
I like that both Antony and Caroline are flawed characters because it makes them seem more human and their journey more emotionally satisfying. At heart, Antony is an honourable man and I can understand his melt down and descent into alcoholism after discovering the evil his sister had perpetrated and his fear that he may suffer from the same madness. I like the realistic way in which Ms. Brant handles Antony’s alcoholism. Like all alcoholics, he must admit he has a problem and want to turn his life around and I love the scene where he admits to Caroline the reason for wanting to change.
“Misha opened my eyes and gave my compulsion a name. He made me come to terms with what I really am, to stare myself in the looking glass and say I am a habitual drunkard. But I still had to want to turn my life around, to have a reason to change, to change for the better.”
“Tell me,” she murmured. “What was your reason?”
He answered without hesitation. “You, Caro. I wanted to be able to ask you to marry me with a clean heart and a clear mind.”
I find the idea of Antony’s ritual tea making as a way of overcoming his craving for a drink by concentrating his mind on something else fascinating. I also admire him for his determination to face up to his responsibilities and his self-possession in dealing with his sister.
Caroline has her own secrets; a sordid past which makes her feel unworthy of someone as honourable as Antony, but I like how they are talk openly to each other and resolve the issues between them. Antony is not judgemental of Caroline and, in fact, blames himself for the headache she has suffered over the last four years.
The romance is emotional, tender and romantic and provides a welcome contrast to the drama surrounding Diana’s devious plotting. There are nail-biting moments when I was convinced her evil plans would finally succeed but, in a dramatic climax, Diana meets a rather grisly end.
Tom Allenby, Jane’s stepbrother, has an important role in the story and a new character, Katherine (Kitty) Aldershot, is introduced.
MY VERDICT: This is a wonderful blend of romance, suspense and intrigue.
♥♥♥♥♥♥
REVIEW OF SALT ANGEL
This charming novella sees Kitty Aldershot and Tom Allenby get their happy ending.
Kitty and Tom are a delightful couple. Tom is kind and steadfast and I admired him for the way he always looked after Jane (Countess of Salt Hendon) and was her stalwart defender when she needed him the most. I found the fact that he is rather flustered around Kitty rather endearing.
She took a step closer, the drawing folding in on itself, their fingers lightly touching, and her violet eyes widened in expectation, heart thudding in her chest. But he just stood there, smiling down at her, not saying a word.
I like how, despite her circumstances, Kitty has retained her youthful optimism, and also the way she does her best to repay the Salt Hendons for all their kindness. I felt her heartache when she reads Lady Caroline’s letter but admire her selflessness in not wanting to ruin Tom’s good name or his political prospects.
How could she tell him her feelings if she could not, in good conscience, accept an offer from him because a marriage with her would not only ostracize his family, but ruin his future prospects as a parliamentarian?
I was totally charmed by the elderly Russian Prince Timur-Alexei Nikolai Mordinov who turns out to be an unlikely ally for Tom and Kitty. The interactions between the prince and the eccentric Lady Reanay were entertaining and this couple prove that falling in love is not just the preserve of the young.
“Be warned! It can hit you at any time, at any place, and at any age! Falling in love is not confined to the young, Miss Aldershot.”– Prince Mordinov
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and it was the perfect ending to this series of stories.
OVERALL VERDICT: If you have never read any of Lucinda Brant’s books, this boxed set would be an excellent introduction to her wonderful stories, richly drawn characters and heart-warming romances.
These reviews were first posted on Rakes and Rascals:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
January 19, 2017
I've given the set a B+ overall - A+ for narration, B+/B for content - at AAR, so that's 4.5 stars
I first listened to Lucinda Brant’s Salt Bride and Salt Redux a few years back, when they were most ably narrated by Marian Hussey. This new edition of both books (plus the novella, Salt Angel, originally published in A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection) includes the original version of Salt Bride, with the prologue reinstated (it was removed from subsequent editions of the book as it provoked some controversy) and the audios are narrated by the supremely talented Alex Wyndham, whose performances of Ms. Brant’s other novels have made quite the impression on fans of romance audiobooks.
A marriage made because of the conditions of a will and a deathbed promise is probably not the most auspicious beginning to a relationship. But those are the conditions under which Miss Jane Despard is forced to accept the hand of Magnus Sinclair, the Earl of Salt Hendon (known as Salt). In order for her beloved step-brother to receive the bulk of his inheritance, Jane must marry before a certain date, and in order to fulfil a promise made to a dying man, Salt is obliged to offer for the woman who heartlessly jilted him four years earlier. He and Jane met during her début season and fell deeply in love, eagerly anticipating their vows on the night he proposed to her. Salt was called away before they could make the engagement official but failed to return – even when Jane sent him a note telling him she was pregnant – and later broke their engagement by letter. So Jane is bewildered when, on the first occasion they have seen each other in four years, Salt seems to feel that he is the injured party and makes it clear in no uncertain terms that his offer is made only because he is honour bound to make it and that once they are married, he intends to send her to live in the country while he continues with his life in London. But Jane is no simpering miss and makes Salt aware that she is just as unhappy about the situation as he is.
As the couple settle into their married life and each realises that they never really fell out of love, there is sufficient mistrust and uncertainty between them for neither to want to make the first move and admit it. Jane becomes more and more convinced that Salt never knew of her pregnancy – but doesn’t know why her letter never reached him, and is still confused as to why he ended their betrothal so abruptly. And Salt comes to realise that Jane’s life during their separation was not at all what he had supposed, and that his assumptions about her have been based on falsehoods.
The arranged marriage is a favourite trope of mine, and this one is bound up in all sorts of deliberately engineered misunderstandings and behind-the-scenes machinations by the villain of the piece, Lady Diana St. John, Salt’s cousin and the widow of his best friend. She is obsessed by Salt to the point of insanity – but knowing that he will never marry her, she nonetheless aims to keep him for herself by acting as his hostess and remaining constantly at his side through the glittering political career for which she believes he is destined.
Diana is a well-realised character, even though she’s dangerously close to being over-the-top. She’s so devious and clever that there are times it seems as though she might actually get away with her nefarious schemes; and the depths to which she will go in order to obtain what she wants are truly horrifying when they are finally revealed.
One word of warning – Salt Bride opens with the rather traumatic scene of a young woman (Jane) in the midst of a deliberately induced miscarriage, which, while not graphic, may nonetheless prove upsetting. This prologue was removed from the second edition of the book (and the Marian Hussey version of the audio) – and the information is drip-fed through the rest of the story (the miscarriage scene is still present in a slightly different form). Personally, I prefer that version of the story, but the placement of that scene makes no difference to the way the story plays out.
Salt Redux picks up the story of the Salt Hendons some four years after the ending of Salt Bride. Salt, Jane and their young family are happily living in the country away from the goldfish bowl of London, but decide that it is time for them to return and for Salt to resume his political career. We learn that in the intervening years, Sir Anthony Templestowe, Salt’s closest friend and relative (and a prominent secondary character in the previous book) was sent to St. Petersburg on a diplomatic posting following a public melt-down and descent into alcoholism; Salt’s sister, Caroline – with whom Anthony has been in love for years – married another man, and the evil Diana was exiled to a remote corner of Wales where she lives on one of Salt’s estates, surrounded by servants who are actually her jailers.
But four years in isolation has not quashed Diana’s ambitions one jot, and her obsession with Salt and hatred for Jane are stronger than ever. After lots of careful planning and waiting, she poisons her guard, makes her escape and heads straight for London where she begins to re-insert herself into a society that was never made aware of the extent of her misdeeds, believing instead that she had gone abroad in the wake of her heartbreak over Salt’s marriage. This decision, made in order to spare the families the massive scandal that would have ensued on revelation of the truth, naturally comes back to bite everyone in the backside, as it enables Diana to hide in plain sight and to begin her campaign to insert herself back into Salt’s life.
News of her escape brings a much healthier, dried-out Anthony back to London where he is shocked and annoyed to find Diana in residence at his town house. Knowing that her presence is almost certain to mean danger for the Salt Hendons, Anthony decides the best policy is to play along with his sister in order to discover her intentions and then make sure they are thwarted. Running parallel with the continuation of this storyline is that of Anthony’s romance with Caroline, who is now a widow. There is a little hiccup along the way, with Caroline believing herself unworthy of so good a man, but fortunately, this isn’t dragged out and Caroline very sensibly determines to make a clean breast of it to the man she loves before accepting his proposal. Their romance is fairly low key, however, as the driving force of the novel is the Diana plotline, which contains some truly nail-biting moments. With that said, however, there are times in the first part of the book when the imparting of information is deliberately delayed; and while I normally enjoy Ms. Brant’s detailed descriptions of the clothes, food, locations and customs of the period, I can’t deny that they sometimes hinder the progression of the plot. But that isn’t always the case, and her descriptions of the customs of the Russian court are vivid and interesting. She also handles the key moment of Anthony’s confession to Caroline very well indeed.
The set is finished off by the novella Salt Angel, which sees Kitty Aldershot, a secondary character from Salt Redux, get her happy ending with Jane’s brother, Tom, with a little help along the way from a delightfully charming, elderly Russian prince.
Given the highly accomplished performances Alex Wyndham has already delivered in a number of Ms. Brandt’s other books, it’s no wonder that she took the rather unusual step of having him re-record these stories. His delivery and pacing are spot on, and he continues to display exceptional vocal acting skills when it comes to bringing out the emotional nuances behind the author’s words. His character differentiation is absolutely superb; I didn’t count the number of characters who appear in both Salt Bride and Salt Redux, but the cast is quite large and every single member, regardless of gender, age or station, is easily distinguishable from the others. His female voices are among the best I’ve ever heard from any male narrator, so the high-born ladies – Jane, Diana and Caroline – all sound as ladies of quality should. It’s easy to tell them apart, however, and Diana’s sneering hauteur is perfectly judged. The two heroes – Salt and Anthony – are flawlessly portrayed. Salt’s deep, resonant tones expertly conjure up the portrait of a man of power and influence who exudes confidence and latent sensuality, while Anthony’s velvety baritone works wonderfully to convey the character’s deep sense of honour and compassion. Anyone who has listened to Mr. Wyndham before will know that he is an outstanding narrator, and anyone who hasn’t – well, you’re missing out and really should give him a try.
Coming in at just under twenty-four hours, listening to the set all in one go is a big commitment, but it’s obviously possible to divide it up into its constituent parts and tackle one story at a time. Salt Bride is probably the stronger of the two books, and while Salt Redux could just about be listened to on its own, I wouldn’t advise it, as so many of the characters and plotlines are introduced in the first book, and this is very much a continuation of that story.
But with Alex Wyndham at the helm, listening for long stretches is no hardship!
I first listened to Lucinda Brant’s Salt Bride and Salt Redux a few years back, when they were most ably narrated by Marian Hussey. This new edition of both books (plus the novella, Salt Angel, originally published in A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection) includes the original version of Salt Bride, with the prologue reinstated (it was removed from subsequent editions of the book as it provoked some controversy) and the audios are narrated by the supremely talented Alex Wyndham, whose performances of Ms. Brant’s other novels have made quite the impression on fans of romance audiobooks.
A marriage made because of the conditions of a will and a deathbed promise is probably not the most auspicious beginning to a relationship. But those are the conditions under which Miss Jane Despard is forced to accept the hand of Magnus Sinclair, the Earl of Salt Hendon (known as Salt). In order for her beloved step-brother to receive the bulk of his inheritance, Jane must marry before a certain date, and in order to fulfil a promise made to a dying man, Salt is obliged to offer for the woman who heartlessly jilted him four years earlier. He and Jane met during her début season and fell deeply in love, eagerly anticipating their vows on the night he proposed to her. Salt was called away before they could make the engagement official but failed to return – even when Jane sent him a note telling him she was pregnant – and later broke their engagement by letter. So Jane is bewildered when, on the first occasion they have seen each other in four years, Salt seems to feel that he is the injured party and makes it clear in no uncertain terms that his offer is made only because he is honour bound to make it and that once they are married, he intends to send her to live in the country while he continues with his life in London. But Jane is no simpering miss and makes Salt aware that she is just as unhappy about the situation as he is.
As the couple settle into their married life and each realises that they never really fell out of love, there is sufficient mistrust and uncertainty between them for neither to want to make the first move and admit it. Jane becomes more and more convinced that Salt never knew of her pregnancy – but doesn’t know why her letter never reached him, and is still confused as to why he ended their betrothal so abruptly. And Salt comes to realise that Jane’s life during their separation was not at all what he had supposed, and that his assumptions about her have been based on falsehoods.
The arranged marriage is a favourite trope of mine, and this one is bound up in all sorts of deliberately engineered misunderstandings and behind-the-scenes machinations by the villain of the piece, Lady Diana St. John, Salt’s cousin and the widow of his best friend. She is obsessed by Salt to the point of insanity – but knowing that he will never marry her, she nonetheless aims to keep him for herself by acting as his hostess and remaining constantly at his side through the glittering political career for which she believes he is destined.
Diana is a well-realised character, even though she’s dangerously close to being over-the-top. She’s so devious and clever that there are times it seems as though she might actually get away with her nefarious schemes; and the depths to which she will go in order to obtain what she wants are truly horrifying when they are finally revealed.
One word of warning – Salt Bride opens with the rather traumatic scene of a young woman (Jane) in the midst of a deliberately induced miscarriage, which, while not graphic, may nonetheless prove upsetting. This prologue was removed from the second edition of the book (and the Marian Hussey version of the audio) – and the information is drip-fed through the rest of the story (the miscarriage scene is still present in a slightly different form). Personally, I prefer that version of the story, but the placement of that scene makes no difference to the way the story plays out.
Salt Redux picks up the story of the Salt Hendons some four years after the ending of Salt Bride. Salt, Jane and their young family are happily living in the country away from the goldfish bowl of London, but decide that it is time for them to return and for Salt to resume his political career. We learn that in the intervening years, Sir Anthony Templestowe, Salt’s closest friend and relative (and a prominent secondary character in the previous book) was sent to St. Petersburg on a diplomatic posting following a public melt-down and descent into alcoholism; Salt’s sister, Caroline – with whom Anthony has been in love for years – married another man, and the evil Diana was exiled to a remote corner of Wales where she lives on one of Salt’s estates, surrounded by servants who are actually her jailers.
But four years in isolation has not quashed Diana’s ambitions one jot, and her obsession with Salt and hatred for Jane are stronger than ever. After lots of careful planning and waiting, she poisons her guard, makes her escape and heads straight for London where she begins to re-insert herself into a society that was never made aware of the extent of her misdeeds, believing instead that she had gone abroad in the wake of her heartbreak over Salt’s marriage. This decision, made in order to spare the families the massive scandal that would have ensued on revelation of the truth, naturally comes back to bite everyone in the backside, as it enables Diana to hide in plain sight and to begin her campaign to insert herself back into Salt’s life.
News of her escape brings a much healthier, dried-out Anthony back to London where he is shocked and annoyed to find Diana in residence at his town house. Knowing that her presence is almost certain to mean danger for the Salt Hendons, Anthony decides the best policy is to play along with his sister in order to discover her intentions and then make sure they are thwarted. Running parallel with the continuation of this storyline is that of Anthony’s romance with Caroline, who is now a widow. There is a little hiccup along the way, with Caroline believing herself unworthy of so good a man, but fortunately, this isn’t dragged out and Caroline very sensibly determines to make a clean breast of it to the man she loves before accepting his proposal. Their romance is fairly low key, however, as the driving force of the novel is the Diana plotline, which contains some truly nail-biting moments. With that said, however, there are times in the first part of the book when the imparting of information is deliberately delayed; and while I normally enjoy Ms. Brant’s detailed descriptions of the clothes, food, locations and customs of the period, I can’t deny that they sometimes hinder the progression of the plot. But that isn’t always the case, and her descriptions of the customs of the Russian court are vivid and interesting. She also handles the key moment of Anthony’s confession to Caroline very well indeed.
The set is finished off by the novella Salt Angel, which sees Kitty Aldershot, a secondary character from Salt Redux, get her happy ending with Jane’s brother, Tom, with a little help along the way from a delightfully charming, elderly Russian prince.
Given the highly accomplished performances Alex Wyndham has already delivered in a number of Ms. Brandt’s other books, it’s no wonder that she took the rather unusual step of having him re-record these stories. His delivery and pacing are spot on, and he continues to display exceptional vocal acting skills when it comes to bringing out the emotional nuances behind the author’s words. His character differentiation is absolutely superb; I didn’t count the number of characters who appear in both Salt Bride and Salt Redux, but the cast is quite large and every single member, regardless of gender, age or station, is easily distinguishable from the others. His female voices are among the best I’ve ever heard from any male narrator, so the high-born ladies – Jane, Diana and Caroline – all sound as ladies of quality should. It’s easy to tell them apart, however, and Diana’s sneering hauteur is perfectly judged. The two heroes – Salt and Anthony – are flawlessly portrayed. Salt’s deep, resonant tones expertly conjure up the portrait of a man of power and influence who exudes confidence and latent sensuality, while Anthony’s velvety baritone works wonderfully to convey the character’s deep sense of honour and compassion. Anyone who has listened to Mr. Wyndham before will know that he is an outstanding narrator, and anyone who hasn’t – well, you’re missing out and really should give him a try.
Coming in at just under twenty-four hours, listening to the set all in one go is a big commitment, but it’s obviously possible to divide it up into its constituent parts and tackle one story at a time. Salt Bride is probably the stronger of the two books, and while Salt Redux could just about be listened to on its own, I wouldn’t advise it, as so many of the characters and plotlines are introduced in the first book, and this is very much a continuation of that story.
But with Alex Wyndham at the helm, listening for long stretches is no hardship!
June 21, 2017
I started reading/listening to “The Salt Hendon Collection” with an open mind, I have tried audiobooks before and I have always been skeptical, as I have never really enjoyed them as I do a regular book. But I am not one to give up on something without at least giving it a secret chance and as the lovely Lucinda Brant so generously offered me a complimentary copy, how could I refuse? So I gave Audiobooks their second chance.
As much as I want to say I loved every moment of this, I hate to say I didn’t. It has nothing to do with the brilliance of the story because the overall plot is fabulous, I have heard so many good things about Brants work and I do agree that she is an exceedingly talented author. The way she entwine’s the characters personal lives with a fast and intriguing plot is superb and I cannot say a single bad thing about her writing.
It’s the same with the narrator, Alex Wyndham. He is a sensational story-teller, his articulated voice is like pure velvet. The way the simplest words just rolls off his tongue can make any woman melt, if I was watching him on the stage or Television, then I would be swooning. His ability accentuate each individual character is pure brilliance, he could read the phone book and still make it could sexy. But, unfortunately even his refined and cultured tones couldn’t save it for me.
The issue wasn’t the story or the narrator, but the Audio version itself. When I’m reading a regular book I become transported to the era, I am living and breathing the story along with the characters, I just didn’t get that same sense with the Audiobook. I couldn’t visualise the characters or the scenery, I couldn’t understand or relate to them and get their personalities like I usually do, all I got from it was the wonderful Mr. Wyndham’s voice in my head telling me a story.
I know without a doubt that if I read this as a regular book, then I would become emersed into the Georgian era and love it, because it has all the ingredients of a great story. For me this particular way of reading it, didn’t work.
I always hate giving negative reviews, but I abide by my own rule, that I will always be honest in my reviews. For those that do like an audiobook they will adore “The Salt Hendon Collection” but this has just confirmed that audiobooks aren’t for me, but I am going to get the book version of this and I am going to read more of Brants work as I want to get to know the characters and plots.
Overall the Audiobook experience didn’t work for me, but Lucinda Brant is definitely an author I am going to read more off.
This was a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
As much as I want to say I loved every moment of this, I hate to say I didn’t. It has nothing to do with the brilliance of the story because the overall plot is fabulous, I have heard so many good things about Brants work and I do agree that she is an exceedingly talented author. The way she entwine’s the characters personal lives with a fast and intriguing plot is superb and I cannot say a single bad thing about her writing.
It’s the same with the narrator, Alex Wyndham. He is a sensational story-teller, his articulated voice is like pure velvet. The way the simplest words just rolls off his tongue can make any woman melt, if I was watching him on the stage or Television, then I would be swooning. His ability accentuate each individual character is pure brilliance, he could read the phone book and still make it could sexy. But, unfortunately even his refined and cultured tones couldn’t save it for me.
The issue wasn’t the story or the narrator, but the Audio version itself. When I’m reading a regular book I become transported to the era, I am living and breathing the story along with the characters, I just didn’t get that same sense with the Audiobook. I couldn’t visualise the characters or the scenery, I couldn’t understand or relate to them and get their personalities like I usually do, all I got from it was the wonderful Mr. Wyndham’s voice in my head telling me a story.
I know without a doubt that if I read this as a regular book, then I would become emersed into the Georgian era and love it, because it has all the ingredients of a great story. For me this particular way of reading it, didn’t work.
I always hate giving negative reviews, but I abide by my own rule, that I will always be honest in my reviews. For those that do like an audiobook they will adore “The Salt Hendon Collection” but this has just confirmed that audiobooks aren’t for me, but I am going to get the book version of this and I am going to read more of Brants work as I want to get to know the characters and plots.
Overall the Audiobook experience didn’t work for me, but Lucinda Brant is definitely an author I am going to read more off.
This was a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2023
I love this story I read it / listen to it narrated by Alex Windham so many times. This is a second chance story. I believe there's about a 10-year age gap between two main characters . She's lived a life of seclusion before the beginning of the story and he's had regular mistresses . There is some serious villainy and emotional/physical harm to the heroin. One of my favorite moments is the emotional meltdown after being confronted on the Tennis Court by her brother type person. I've been through Lucinda Brandt entire collection many of them two or three times. She's amazing!
June 14, 2019
I am a certified Lucinda Brant fan-girl and have become particularly enamored of her audio books narrated by the superb British actor Alec Wyndham. Salt Bride and Salt Redux were recorded by Marion Hussey several years ago, and I thoroughly enjoyed them. Because of the success of Wyndham's narration of Brant's Roxton series, she had him re-record the two Salt novels and added the novella Salt Angel.
These stories are set in Georgian England, and the depth and breadth of Brant's research show in her recreation of the people, places, and events of that era. The stories are primarily romantic, but with a heavy dose of mystery included, and feature dozens of memorable characters. Alex Wyndham has a distinct voice for every one of them, and he does female voices especially well. (Not all of the male narrators do.)
I have both read and listened to the stories more than once and recommend them enthusiastically.
These stories are set in Georgian England, and the depth and breadth of Brant's research show in her recreation of the people, places, and events of that era. The stories are primarily romantic, but with a heavy dose of mystery included, and feature dozens of memorable characters. Alex Wyndham has a distinct voice for every one of them, and he does female voices especially well. (Not all of the male narrators do.)
I have both read and listened to the stories more than once and recommend them enthusiastically.
November 19, 2016
This is the second read for me of Lucinda Brant’s Salt Bride and its sequel Salt Redux. This time it’s with the added bonus of the original prologue to Salt Bride having been reinstated and the inclusion of a novella which was originally published as Fairy Christmas in an anthology and which has been newly extended for its addition to the set. The novella, light and sweet – neatly ties off the complete boxed set.
The Salt Duo was my first foray into Lucinda Brant’s gorgeously sumptuous Georgian world and I am now an addict of this author’s work and devour everything she has written, waiting with eager anticipation for her future work. I thoroughly enjoyed these stories – probably even more than I did initially – especially as I now fully appreciate the extensive research and work Ms. Brant has undertaken for each and every book in her fabulous backlist.
The added prologue, which had already been removed when I read Salt Bride (due to some controversy over its content) was not as shocking as I had expected. It tells the story of Miss Jane Despard’s miscarriage and, in my opinion, is very sensitively handled, with just the right amount of information revealed. However, having read the book with and without said prologue, I do not believe the story lacked anything by its absence. Ms. Brant very successfully drip feeds the circumstances of Jane’s miscarriage throughout Salt Bride and, on reflection, I preferred the edition without the prologue, as the gradual revelation of past events adds an extra element of mystery to the story.
Both Salt Bride and Salt Redux feature one of the most memorable female villains I have ever encountered. Lady Diana St. John, Salt’s cousin, is truly an exceptional bad-girl. Highly intelligent, but criminally insane, she operates in such a rational, self-possessed manner that her madness is hidden beneath her cloak of self-assured entitlement. She features highly in both novels and the prologue, completely stealing the show with her machinations and downright badness. The lengths to which she goes to achieve her objectives are truly mind boggling, but so expertly does Ms. Brant develop Diana’s character that she manifests as alarmingly believable. I wondered how the author would give Diana the comeuppance she justly deserves and when it came, I was not disappointed.
I loved the character of Magnus Sinclair, Earl of Salt Hendon. He’s an utterly gorgeous man who has been raised to feel completely comfortable in his own skin and fully accepts his powerful position. But he is finally knocked off his pedestal and brought down to the level of a mere mortal by the love and devotion of the serenely beautiful Jane Despard.
The first book is very much about the traumatic events leading up to their forced marriage (a premise I love in HR) and the development of their romance. It is already in its infancy when they marry, but they have some way to go and we see Salt finally becoming a more human, down-to-earth man, loving husband and future father.
The second book features Salt and Jane with a growing family but highlights Salt’s best friend and diplomat, Sir Anthony Templestowe who has recently returned from St. Petersburg where he was the darling of the Russian court. Salt’s little sister Caroline (Caro), and Anthony (Tony) have loved each other for a while, but a high-profile incident at the end of Salt Bride sent Tony into virtual exile in Russia. He now returns to help find a solution which will immobilise his diabolical sister, Diana, once and for all but also hopefully mend some fences with Caro. Anthony is a self-confessed alcoholic and I loved that Lucinda Brant tackles this very real problem in a pragmatic and practical manner, making it perfectly clear, along the way, that it can’t ever be resolved. Anthony has faced that – as alcoholics must – but, more importantly, has accepted that the fight with his addiction is an ongoing one. He is a darling man and his vulnerability just serves to make his character more real and compelling. Caroline, too, has confessions to make before they can reach their HEA and the two make an interesting and charismatic couple.
Lucinda Brant expertly gathers all of her primary characters together to bring Diana down – no mean feat – and I wondered, more than once, how she managed to keep her intricate plotting and placing of characters clear in her head. There is so much going on, especially during the dramatic culmination, I had to think twice about where everyone was at any given time. Lucinda Brant doesn’t just write spine tingling romance; she always throws in an element of clever plotting and mystery too. Her ability to keep us guessing is one of the aspects of her writing that I love.
The novella is a nice addition and brings the whole series to a neat conclusion with not one but two delightful romances. Three of the characters appeared in the Salt Duo as secondary characters and the third, Prince Timur-Alexei Nikolai, makes his first appearance in the novella. Lucinda Brant has a pleasing way of including every age group in her romance. We are never too old for love and the elderly Russian Prince is an absolute sweetheart. His addition to the Fairy Christmas a delightful touch and his love story makes for a perfect ending to a terrific series.
I loved the Salt Hendon collection and if you have never read a Lucinda Brant historical romance or mystery, this is a good place to start.
Audio addition: narrated by Alex Wyndham:
It's hard to believe that Lucinda Brant's Salt Hendon Collection could be improved on, but with the addition of the highly talented Alex Wyndham's performance that is exactly what has happened. This already powerful collection has been taken to a new level and I floated along on a cloud of bliss whilst listening to, and basking in, Alex Wyndham's velvety tones.
In paragraph two above, I said after reading the eBook version:
"on reflection, I would conclude that I preferred the edition without the prologue............".
I now retract that statement - at least with respect to the audio version - because Alex Wyndham's portrayal of the disturbing and highly emotive scene where Jane Despard loses her baby is so compassionately and empathetically delivered that I fail to see how anyone listening to it could not be deeply moved. His performance and delivery added another layer to an already emotionally charged scene.
Mr. Wyndham goes on to capture every one of Ms. Brant's host of fascinating characters and switches effortlessly between male or female, young or old with subtle intonations and nuances so the listener is never in doubt as to who he is, even during a multi character conversation.
Two personalities are deserving of a mention because of Alex Wyndham's stupendous portrayal of them. One is the villainous Diana, so Machiavellian like in her evil and conniving, but so eye wateringly plausible that she's just down-right scary but, at the same time, strangely fascinating. Mr. Wyndham's performance of her comeuppance is nothing less than thrilling and, as the drama builds, Alex Wyndham delivers Lucinda Brant's words with a slowly building suspense leaving the reader feeling emotionally drained at the culmination.
At the other end of the drama scale, we have the utterly irresistible pussy-cat, Prince Timur-Alexei Nikolai. Alex Wyndham uses a heavily accented, slightly scratchy Russian dialect to depict this kind, sweet, perfectly mannered and gentlemanly prince - a class act. One of those cuddly characters - full of wisdom - you can't help but love.
The uber talented Alex Wyndham has delivered the Salt Hendon Collection to perfection, bringing Ms. Brant's words into three-dimensional brilliance and offering us an insight into her opulent and fascinating Georgian world. Finally, there was an exceptionally nice touch when, right at the beginning of the book, Alex Wyndham tells us:
"For all the fans who requested the Salt books as a Brant/Wyndham audio collaboration, it's all here"
I was especially touched by this statement because I was one of those "fans" and felt as if he was speaking directly to me. Is it any wonder that Lucinda Brant (and now Alex Wyndham) has such a loyal following, albeit well deserved, when she hears what her readers/listeners have to say and actually cares what we think?
MY VERDICT: I defy anyone not to adore this feast of a collection. Highly recommended!
The Salt Duo was my first foray into Lucinda Brant’s gorgeously sumptuous Georgian world and I am now an addict of this author’s work and devour everything she has written, waiting with eager anticipation for her future work. I thoroughly enjoyed these stories – probably even more than I did initially – especially as I now fully appreciate the extensive research and work Ms. Brant has undertaken for each and every book in her fabulous backlist.
The added prologue, which had already been removed when I read Salt Bride (due to some controversy over its content) was not as shocking as I had expected. It tells the story of Miss Jane Despard’s miscarriage and, in my opinion, is very sensitively handled, with just the right amount of information revealed. However, having read the book with and without said prologue, I do not believe the story lacked anything by its absence. Ms. Brant very successfully drip feeds the circumstances of Jane’s miscarriage throughout Salt Bride and, on reflection, I preferred the edition without the prologue, as the gradual revelation of past events adds an extra element of mystery to the story.
Both Salt Bride and Salt Redux feature one of the most memorable female villains I have ever encountered. Lady Diana St. John, Salt’s cousin, is truly an exceptional bad-girl. Highly intelligent, but criminally insane, she operates in such a rational, self-possessed manner that her madness is hidden beneath her cloak of self-assured entitlement. She features highly in both novels and the prologue, completely stealing the show with her machinations and downright badness. The lengths to which she goes to achieve her objectives are truly mind boggling, but so expertly does Ms. Brant develop Diana’s character that she manifests as alarmingly believable. I wondered how the author would give Diana the comeuppance she justly deserves and when it came, I was not disappointed.
I loved the character of Magnus Sinclair, Earl of Salt Hendon. He’s an utterly gorgeous man who has been raised to feel completely comfortable in his own skin and fully accepts his powerful position. But he is finally knocked off his pedestal and brought down to the level of a mere mortal by the love and devotion of the serenely beautiful Jane Despard.
The first book is very much about the traumatic events leading up to their forced marriage (a premise I love in HR) and the development of their romance. It is already in its infancy when they marry, but they have some way to go and we see Salt finally becoming a more human, down-to-earth man, loving husband and future father.
The second book features Salt and Jane with a growing family but highlights Salt’s best friend and diplomat, Sir Anthony Templestowe who has recently returned from St. Petersburg where he was the darling of the Russian court. Salt’s little sister Caroline (Caro), and Anthony (Tony) have loved each other for a while, but a high-profile incident at the end of Salt Bride sent Tony into virtual exile in Russia. He now returns to help find a solution which will immobilise his diabolical sister, Diana, once and for all but also hopefully mend some fences with Caro. Anthony is a self-confessed alcoholic and I loved that Lucinda Brant tackles this very real problem in a pragmatic and practical manner, making it perfectly clear, along the way, that it can’t ever be resolved. Anthony has faced that – as alcoholics must – but, more importantly, has accepted that the fight with his addiction is an ongoing one. He is a darling man and his vulnerability just serves to make his character more real and compelling. Caroline, too, has confessions to make before they can reach their HEA and the two make an interesting and charismatic couple.
Lucinda Brant expertly gathers all of her primary characters together to bring Diana down – no mean feat – and I wondered, more than once, how she managed to keep her intricate plotting and placing of characters clear in her head. There is so much going on, especially during the dramatic culmination, I had to think twice about where everyone was at any given time. Lucinda Brant doesn’t just write spine tingling romance; she always throws in an element of clever plotting and mystery too. Her ability to keep us guessing is one of the aspects of her writing that I love.
The novella is a nice addition and brings the whole series to a neat conclusion with not one but two delightful romances. Three of the characters appeared in the Salt Duo as secondary characters and the third, Prince Timur-Alexei Nikolai, makes his first appearance in the novella. Lucinda Brant has a pleasing way of including every age group in her romance. We are never too old for love and the elderly Russian Prince is an absolute sweetheart. His addition to the Fairy Christmas a delightful touch and his love story makes for a perfect ending to a terrific series.
I loved the Salt Hendon collection and if you have never read a Lucinda Brant historical romance or mystery, this is a good place to start.
Audio addition: narrated by Alex Wyndham:
It's hard to believe that Lucinda Brant's Salt Hendon Collection could be improved on, but with the addition of the highly talented Alex Wyndham's performance that is exactly what has happened. This already powerful collection has been taken to a new level and I floated along on a cloud of bliss whilst listening to, and basking in, Alex Wyndham's velvety tones.
In paragraph two above, I said after reading the eBook version:
"on reflection, I would conclude that I preferred the edition without the prologue............".
I now retract that statement - at least with respect to the audio version - because Alex Wyndham's portrayal of the disturbing and highly emotive scene where Jane Despard loses her baby is so compassionately and empathetically delivered that I fail to see how anyone listening to it could not be deeply moved. His performance and delivery added another layer to an already emotionally charged scene.
Mr. Wyndham goes on to capture every one of Ms. Brant's host of fascinating characters and switches effortlessly between male or female, young or old with subtle intonations and nuances so the listener is never in doubt as to who he is, even during a multi character conversation.
Two personalities are deserving of a mention because of Alex Wyndham's stupendous portrayal of them. One is the villainous Diana, so Machiavellian like in her evil and conniving, but so eye wateringly plausible that she's just down-right scary but, at the same time, strangely fascinating. Mr. Wyndham's performance of her comeuppance is nothing less than thrilling and, as the drama builds, Alex Wyndham delivers Lucinda Brant's words with a slowly building suspense leaving the reader feeling emotionally drained at the culmination.
At the other end of the drama scale, we have the utterly irresistible pussy-cat, Prince Timur-Alexei Nikolai. Alex Wyndham uses a heavily accented, slightly scratchy Russian dialect to depict this kind, sweet, perfectly mannered and gentlemanly prince - a class act. One of those cuddly characters - full of wisdom - you can't help but love.
The uber talented Alex Wyndham has delivered the Salt Hendon Collection to perfection, bringing Ms. Brant's words into three-dimensional brilliance and offering us an insight into her opulent and fascinating Georgian world. Finally, there was an exceptionally nice touch when, right at the beginning of the book, Alex Wyndham tells us:
"For all the fans who requested the Salt books as a Brant/Wyndham audio collaboration, it's all here"
I was especially touched by this statement because I was one of those "fans" and felt as if he was speaking directly to me. Is it any wonder that Lucinda Brant (and now Alex Wyndham) has such a loyal following, albeit well deserved, when she hears what her readers/listeners have to say and actually cares what we think?
MY VERDICT: I defy anyone not to adore this feast of a collection. Highly recommended!
May 8, 2020
cw for child abuse, child loss and abortion
This really lived up to expectations. I was totally absorbed in the drama. A drama which reminded me of older romance novels I read in the 80ies or 90ies, but it never went all the problematic way. Especially in the first book there were all the ingredients for the hero to go off the wall entirely - and I was so pleased when he didn‘t, but trusted his wife and his friend without hesitation.
The villainess was so vile, but on the other hand also a fascinating product of a time where all her talent and brain could not be used on her own behalf, but had to be channelled through men. I never liked her, she was horrid, but I appreciated that her motivation was so well grounded.
I liked the whole cast very much, the hero of the second book was especially likable.
I was also glad that Caroline was less perfect than lovely Jane. Jane was only made palpable because of her wonderful honesty and directness.
The last story I had already read, but I enjoyed it even more than the first time, now that I knew the whole family so well.
The narration was masterfully done, Alex Wyndham is a favorite of mine.
This really lived up to expectations. I was totally absorbed in the drama. A drama which reminded me of older romance novels I read in the 80ies or 90ies, but it never went all the problematic way. Especially in the first book there were all the ingredients for the hero to go off the wall entirely - and I was so pleased when he didn‘t, but trusted his wife and his friend without hesitation.
The villainess was so vile, but on the other hand also a fascinating product of a time where all her talent and brain could not be used on her own behalf, but had to be channelled through men. I never liked her, she was horrid, but I appreciated that her motivation was so well grounded.
I liked the whole cast very much, the hero of the second book was especially likable.
I was also glad that Caroline was less perfect than lovely Jane. Jane was only made palpable because of her wonderful honesty and directness.
The last story I had already read, but I enjoyed it even more than the first time, now that I knew the whole family so well.
The narration was masterfully done, Alex Wyndham is a favorite of mine.
January 16, 2019
Do not miss this series collection!
June 11, 2017
Narrated by Alex Wyndham.
Reviewed for AudioGals.
http://www.audiogals.net/2016/12/salt...
Reviewed for AudioGals.
http://www.audiogals.net/2016/12/salt...
May 8, 2023
I loved both full-length novels plus the bonus novella at the end. The characters all transformed to become better versions of themselves. I am utterly amazed at the amount of intrigue that Brant can instill in her stories within the historical context of the period.
Salt begins as an unlikeable character, but you warm to him more and more as you see he is responding from a position of pain. Jane is delightful and all things good from the first to the last even in the most difficult situations. She is ever the calm head and a bright discerning mind. I highly recommend discovering Salt and Jane's struggle for love to overcome the pains of their past against active forces working against them.
In Salt Redux the vanquished menace returns. Tony became a force to be reckoned with after overcoming alcoholism with rituals, tea, and a caring sponsor in St. Petersburg. From the moment that he realized Diana had escaped her gilded prison, he knew it was his responsibility to protect Jane and her children and vowed to do whatever was necessary. Similar to Tony's bad behavior upon learning the depravity of his sister, Caro drank too much and became reckless sending her life in an unpleasant direction. Their reconciliation is secondary to discovering and foiling Diana's plot.
Brant paints a picture of a criminally insane woman who believes she is totally in the right without dragging the story down with the minutiae. Diana's plot is multipronged and dastardly. Brant chose the middle ground of allowing Diana's plot to go far enough to make an entertaining story without causing harm to come to her other characters.
It is also brilliant how Alex Wyndham creates a uniquely identifiable voice for most of the characters. This dramatically improves the listening experience.
Salt begins as an unlikeable character, but you warm to him more and more as you see he is responding from a position of pain. Jane is delightful and all things good from the first to the last even in the most difficult situations. She is ever the calm head and a bright discerning mind. I highly recommend discovering Salt and Jane's struggle for love to overcome the pains of their past against active forces working against them.
In Salt Redux the vanquished menace returns. Tony became a force to be reckoned with after overcoming alcoholism with rituals, tea, and a caring sponsor in St. Petersburg. From the moment that he realized Diana had escaped her gilded prison, he knew it was his responsibility to protect Jane and her children and vowed to do whatever was necessary. Similar to Tony's bad behavior upon learning the depravity of his sister, Caro drank too much and became reckless sending her life in an unpleasant direction. Their reconciliation is secondary to discovering and foiling Diana's plot.
Brant paints a picture of a criminally insane woman who believes she is totally in the right without dragging the story down with the minutiae. Diana's plot is multipronged and dastardly. Brant chose the middle ground of allowing Diana's plot to go far enough to make an entertaining story without causing harm to come to her other characters.
It is also brilliant how Alex Wyndham creates a uniquely identifiable voice for most of the characters. This dramatically improves the listening experience.
December 2, 2018
Marking this as read because it’s the only place I could find “Salt Angel” as a book, which is 2.5 in the Salt Collection.
Salt Angel (SA) is not quite as good and book 1 & 2, but still very enjoyable. It’s much shorter than the others as well, but it didn’t feel like it was rushed or anything like that. SA focuses on Kitty, a ward of Salt’s and Caroline’s friend, as well as Alice (Mary & Ron’s grandmother - their father’s mother if I got that all right), Tom, & the old prince from Russia that was in England for Tom’s ceremony in book 2.
We start out following Kitty & her infatuation with Tom, which gets derailed when she reads a private letter on the back of a drawing from Ned. She is more than distraught by what she reads, and tries to console herself by throwing all of her attention into showing the Prince all of the English Christmas traditions, as he’s here to learn all of, along with a secret reason as well.
Salt Angel (SA) is not quite as good and book 1 & 2, but still very enjoyable. It’s much shorter than the others as well, but it didn’t feel like it was rushed or anything like that. SA focuses on Kitty, a ward of Salt’s and Caroline’s friend, as well as Alice (Mary & Ron’s grandmother - their father’s mother if I got that all right), Tom, & the old prince from Russia that was in England for Tom’s ceremony in book 2.
We start out following Kitty & her infatuation with Tom, which gets derailed when she reads a private letter on the back of a drawing from Ned. She is more than distraught by what she reads, and tries to console herself by throwing all of her attention into showing the Prince all of the English Christmas traditions, as he’s here to learn all of, along with a secret reason as well.
August 2, 2017
Owning the kindle collection means that Audible offered me the audio box set for less than $3. For three audiobooks? DEAL!
Salt bride
Salt redux
Salt angel
And Alex Wyndham is a great narrator.
But Salt is such a dick at the start; he’s hard to like. At least until Jane’s innate goodness works on him as well it does on everyone else. The epically evil Dianna is just almost too much.
I adore Anthony.
But I laughed out loud more than a few times as I was walking and listening.
4 stars
Salt bride
Salt redux
Salt angel
And Alex Wyndham is a great narrator.
But Salt is such a dick at the start; he’s hard to like. At least until Jane’s innate goodness works on him as well it does on everyone else. The epically evil Dianna is just almost too much.
I adore Anthony.
But I laughed out loud more than a few times as I was walking and listening.
4 stars
April 10, 2020
This Salt Hendon Collection was a very good book. It is three books in the collection. It is so much to tell, I would have to take time to tell it.Salt Hendon Collection: A Georgian Historical Romance Boxed Set
April 16, 2020
This review is as much about the writing as it is about the audiobook reader. I really enjoyed Lucinda Brant's series and look for more of her writing but almost equally as much I really loved the excellent voice of Alex Wyndham. I'll now seek audiobooks that he chooses to narrate. I remember when I use to listen to Book on Tape (all those years ago) and choose anything Frank Muller narrated/read. Sad he died so tragically.
August 15, 2021
I absolutely know that I should have enjoyed this special presentation box set, as it pairs together both Lucinda Brant and the versatile Alex Wyndham (I listened to the audiobook version of this title), but I truly couldn’t enjoy the stories! Not one of them! To explain why would seem petty and nick-picking, especially as I’m in the minority!
This was my introduction to Ms Brant - I prefer Georgette Heyer and Stella Riley thus far but, I shall persevere!
This was my introduction to Ms Brant - I prefer Georgette Heyer and Stella Riley thus far but, I shall persevere!
January 6, 2020
Family Saga
Thoroughly enjoyed reading about the Salt family from start to finish and the end resulting in another love match in the making! These stories are nonstop action some keep you on the edge of your seat!!!
Thoroughly enjoyed reading about the Salt family from start to finish and the end resulting in another love match in the making! These stories are nonstop action some keep you on the edge of your seat!!!
May 4, 2020
Another great read.
I enjoyed the characters with the exception of Diana. However I feel that Karma was wonderful to her. I hope there will be additional stories about the family in the future.
I enjoyed the characters with the exception of Diana. However I feel that Karma was wonderful to her. I hope there will be additional stories about the family in the future.
June 19, 2017
4 stars for the story (Salt Bride)
5 stars for narrator, wonderful Alex Wyndham
5 stars for narrator, wonderful Alex Wyndham
January 28, 2020
Engaging reads!
I thoroughly enjoyed the Salt Hendon Collection! Well written and engrossing characters and interesting story development. I hope to read all 0f her other novels.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Salt Hendon Collection! Well written and engrossing characters and interesting story development. I hope to read all 0f her other novels.
October 28, 2017
4 stars for novella Salt Angel-Christmas Eve 1767
a nice little story to wrap up the series and a little peek into the lives of the Earl of Salt, his countess Jane and their children, Antony and Caroline from Salt Redux and featuring Kitty and Tom Allenby, Jane's brother..
5 stars for narrator Alex Wyndham.
a nice little story to wrap up the series and a little peek into the lives of the Earl of Salt, his countess Jane and their children, Antony and Caroline from Salt Redux and featuring Kitty and Tom Allenby, Jane's brother..
5 stars for narrator Alex Wyndham.
July 5, 2016
Salt Hendon Collection: A Georgian Historical Romance Boxed Set by the brilliant, Lucinda Brant is simply amazing!
Three exciting titles, "Salt Bride", "Salt Redux" are included in this collection, and one Novella, "Salt Angel", which was "(previously published in A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection)". A Classic romance, with a bit of Regency noir.
All are re-issued, which have been extended, and all are "comprehensive editions".
This collection is an excellent introduction into the mesmerizing world of Ms. Brant's Georgian Historical Romance world.
Well written, with definite flawed characters, who are as intriguing, as fascinating and some, I would consider just plain, evil. Fast paced, intense, emotional and dramatic, as well as compelling and frustrating, as readers, at times, wish to wring some necks, themselves.
Simply intriguing! Ms. Brant is known for her utterly fascinating, intensive, uniquely written, and romantic, 18th century tales. Which capture readers with her fascinating and intricately woven world of romance.
A must have collection of Georgian Romances! Fans of Historical Romance, the complexity of the Georgian era, and unique storylines, will definitely enjoy this masterfully written, romantically woven tale. A truly romantic family saga treasure! Another great edition into the world of romance! Pick it up for yourself and see what you think. I absolutely adored this collection!
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
Three exciting titles, "Salt Bride", "Salt Redux" are included in this collection, and one Novella, "Salt Angel", which was "(previously published in A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection)". A Classic romance, with a bit of Regency noir.
All are re-issued, which have been extended, and all are "comprehensive editions".
This collection is an excellent introduction into the mesmerizing world of Ms. Brant's Georgian Historical Romance world.
Well written, with definite flawed characters, who are as intriguing, as fascinating and some, I would consider just plain, evil. Fast paced, intense, emotional and dramatic, as well as compelling and frustrating, as readers, at times, wish to wring some necks, themselves.
Simply intriguing! Ms. Brant is known for her utterly fascinating, intensive, uniquely written, and romantic, 18th century tales. Which capture readers with her fascinating and intricately woven world of romance.
A must have collection of Georgian Romances! Fans of Historical Romance, the complexity of the Georgian era, and unique storylines, will definitely enjoy this masterfully written, romantically woven tale. A truly romantic family saga treasure! Another great edition into the world of romance! Pick it up for yourself and see what you think. I absolutely adored this collection!
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
September 13, 2016
Salt Bride (review as posted on individual novel)
I started reading it in Scandalous Brides (Four Bestselling Full-Length Regency Novels) but soon learned the author had re-released and updated version so I switched to Salt Hendon Collection: A Georgian Historical Romance Boxed Set. I found the beginning easier to read with the changes so happy I switched. Although I found it a little difficult trying to place the different characters but once I sorted out who was who and how they were related/comnected I was good. It isn't your run of the mill historical romance. It has an indepth plot with great character development. I would read it again so it gets 5 stars from me.
Salt Redux This was pretty darn close to being a 5 star read it again for me but fell short of the mark with Anthony and Caroline's romance. As one reviewer touched on it was more of a seaquel to Salt and Jane's lives. With Anthony and Caroline's relationship being overshadowed by Diana's plans. Whilst the story was a good read it doesn't fit the historical romance model as well as it could if at all. I see a better story line which includes the element of Diana threatening Anthony with Caroline's welfare early on. I also find Caroline's terms for betrothal were more or less there to get her to Anthony's at night providing Diana a way into the Salt House rather than anything to do with Caro and Anthony's romance since those terms were easily discarded. Even so I enjoyed it for what it was.
I started reading it in Scandalous Brides (Four Bestselling Full-Length Regency Novels) but soon learned the author had re-released and updated version so I switched to Salt Hendon Collection: A Georgian Historical Romance Boxed Set. I found the beginning easier to read with the changes so happy I switched. Although I found it a little difficult trying to place the different characters but once I sorted out who was who and how they were related/comnected I was good. It isn't your run of the mill historical romance. It has an indepth plot with great character development. I would read it again so it gets 5 stars from me.
Salt Redux This was pretty darn close to being a 5 star read it again for me but fell short of the mark with Anthony and Caroline's romance. As one reviewer touched on it was more of a seaquel to Salt and Jane's lives. With Anthony and Caroline's relationship being overshadowed by Diana's plans. Whilst the story was a good read it doesn't fit the historical romance model as well as it could if at all. I see a better story line which includes the element of Diana threatening Anthony with Caroline's welfare early on. I also find Caroline's terms for betrothal were more or less there to get her to Anthony's at night providing Diana a way into the Salt House rather than anything to do with Caro and Anthony's romance since those terms were easily discarded. Even so I enjoyed it for what it was.
October 16, 2016
This review is for Salt Angel. The other works are reviewed separately.
Kitty, Caroline’s sister in law is madly in love with Jane’s stepbrother, Tom. Kitty is the daughter of a Duke; she may have no dowry but Salt will make sure she doesn’t marry with nothing. Tom, on the other hand is not titled. But he is the new MP for Hendon.
So sure is Kitty that no-one will approve that she is terrified of even talking to him. They did dance, twice, at the masked ball before everything went pear shaped in book two.
It’s Christmas and little Ned draws an angel (Kitty) on the back of a page from a letter.
Kitty reads part of it, and thinks the letter is about her and Tom.
She’s escorting one of Antony’s Russian contacts around. An aged Prince, part of a Russian trade delegation.
He advises her to write letters. And he has his own reasons for suggesting this.
***
A quick glimpse inside a Salt Christmas. The family is still paramount. And anyone they consider ‘part’ of their family. Caroline and Antony (now Lord Temple) are married and just back from a honeymoon in Ireland.
And Aunt Reanay.
Tom and Kitty’s ‘understanding’ is so far, silent and each time he tries to speak to her, some issue arises.
It’s short and kind of cute.
4 stars
Kitty, Caroline’s sister in law is madly in love with Jane’s stepbrother, Tom. Kitty is the daughter of a Duke; she may have no dowry but Salt will make sure she doesn’t marry with nothing. Tom, on the other hand is not titled. But he is the new MP for Hendon.
So sure is Kitty that no-one will approve that she is terrified of even talking to him. They did dance, twice, at the masked ball before everything went pear shaped in book two.
It’s Christmas and little Ned draws an angel (Kitty) on the back of a page from a letter.
Kitty reads part of it, and thinks the letter is about her and Tom.
She’s escorting one of Antony’s Russian contacts around. An aged Prince, part of a Russian trade delegation.
He advises her to write letters. And he has his own reasons for suggesting this.
***
A quick glimpse inside a Salt Christmas. The family is still paramount. And anyone they consider ‘part’ of their family. Caroline and Antony (now Lord Temple) are married and just back from a honeymoon in Ireland.
And Aunt Reanay.
Tom and Kitty’s ‘understanding’ is so far, silent and each time he tries to speak to her, some issue arises.
It’s short and kind of cute.
4 stars
January 6, 2017
Bought this bundle when it was on sale so I can read more about Jane & Salt on the next book. Book 2, kinda wrapped up the unfinished scenes and "what happened to's" questions from the first one and the HEA's story of Jane & Salt with their offspring (4 years later). I'm not too keen on the main characters on book 2 but overall is still good reading. So if you haven't purchased the first book then this is the good bargain book for the entire series.
The first book, Salt Bride, on my favorite, 5 star shelf, but I gave this 4 star as an overall review of all 3 books.
Salt Series
Book 1 - 1763 - Salt Bride: Salt & Jane
Book 2 -1767 - Salt Redux: Anthony Templestowe (Salt's cousin and brother in law) & Lady Carolyin (Salt's sister)
Book 3 - 1767 - Fairy Christmas (Novella) - Tom Allenby (Jane's brother) & Kitty
The first book, Salt Bride, on my favorite, 5 star shelf, but I gave this 4 star as an overall review of all 3 books.
Salt Series
Book 1 - 1763 - Salt Bride: Salt & Jane
Book 2 -1767 - Salt Redux: Anthony Templestowe (Salt's cousin and brother in law) & Lady Carolyin (Salt's sister)
Book 3 - 1767 - Fairy Christmas (Novella) - Tom Allenby (Jane's brother) & Kitty
August 7, 2016
Full length novels good; novella poor
THIS REVIEW IS FOR THE NOVELLA INCLUDED WITH THE LONGER NOVELS OF THIS SERIES.
I purchased separately and read Salt Bride and Salt Redux before purchasing this boxed set that also contains a novella Salt Angel: a Christmas novella. This 8 chapter entry never rises to the level of the two longer novels in the Salt Hendon collection. In fact, it's trite and predictable to the point of being boring.
Bottom line: the two main novels contained herein are well written and absorbing, the novella is a complete miss. I give the novels a solid 4 stars each, the novella a weak 2 stars.
THIS REVIEW IS FOR THE NOVELLA INCLUDED WITH THE LONGER NOVELS OF THIS SERIES.
I purchased separately and read Salt Bride and Salt Redux before purchasing this boxed set that also contains a novella Salt Angel: a Christmas novella. This 8 chapter entry never rises to the level of the two longer novels in the Salt Hendon collection. In fact, it's trite and predictable to the point of being boring.
Bottom line: the two main novels contained herein are well written and absorbing, the novella is a complete miss. I give the novels a solid 4 stars each, the novella a weak 2 stars.
August 5, 2016
Fantastic
This is one of the best books I've read in quite a while. Nothing overdone. Well thought out and a pleasure to read. I will definitely read more by Lucinda Brant.
This is one of the best books I've read in quite a while. Nothing overdone. Well thought out and a pleasure to read. I will definitely read more by Lucinda Brant.
August 28, 2016
enjoyed the whole series
September 4, 2016
3.5 stars
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