Italian Sonata

Dangerous Desires #2

by Emmanuelle de Maupassant

Towering above its island of wave-lashed rock is Castello di Scogliera.

Look up at the narrow windows, and you might think yourself watched.

Something, or someone, has been waiting for Lady McCaulay to arrive…

What dark secrets lie within those walls?
Madness, abduction, imprisonment... murder?
The past does not lie quietly.

A sumptuous Gothic Romance, filled with mystery, intrigue, and the lure of the sensuous, from the pen of Emmanuelle de Maupassant.

Italian Sonata is the second volume in the Noire trilogy.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Erotica, Dark, BDSM, Gothic

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2017

About the author

Emmanuelle lives in a medieval tower house in the Highlands, with her husband and Ernie McFloof (connoisseur of bacon treats and squeaky toys).

She writes historical romance filled with adventure, suspense, and red-hot passion.

Visit her website - www.emmanuelledemaupassant.com - to find a FREE story to download, and to sign up for her newsletter (monthly gossip, giveaways and goodies).


***

Emmanuelle lebt mit ihrem Mann (Hersteller von Tee und Obstkuchen) und ihrer Schnüffelnase, Ernie, auch bekannt als ihr liebstes Fellknäuel und Liebhaber von quietschenden Spielzeugen und Schinken.

Liebst du liebesromane und Hörbücher?

Von Emmanuelle de Maupassant über ihre neuesten Veröffentlichungen zu hören - und gelegentlich über andere von Emmanuelle empfohlene Bücher

... geben sie ihre E-Mail-Adresse ein, um sich anzumelden

=> https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5fb932...


***

Emmanuelle de Maupassant vive con il marito e ama i suoi fagottini pelosi a quattro zampe (che sono dei grandi intenditori di giocattoli da mordere e snack al bacon).

Iscriviti alla newsletter di Emmanuelle per ricevere direttamente nella tua casella di posta notizie in anteprima sulle nuove uscite, ricevere degli omaggi, e per dare un’occhiata dietro le quinte.

=> https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5fb92e...


***

Emmanuelle de Maupassant vive con su esposo y ama las mascotas peludas de la variedad de cuatro patas (expertos en juguetes ruidosos y golosinas de tocino).

Regístrate en el boletín de Emmanuelle, para ver los nuevos lanzamientos, obsequios y las historias detrás de escena, entregados directamente a tu bandeja de entrada.

=> https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5fb91b...


***

L'auteure publie (des romances historiques) sous trois noms de plume : Annabelle Quinn, Anna Quinn et Emmanuelle de Maupassant.

Elle vit avec son mari et a un sérieux penchant pour les terriers à poils longs (amateurs de jouets qui font pouêt-pouêt et de gourmandises au bacon).

=> https://emmanuelledemaupassant.com/vo...

Reviews

[CC · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in 1899, Lord Henry and Lady Maud Franchingham set sail from London to Europe celebrate their honeymoon. With Henry’s debutante cousin, Cecile, under his charge she also travels with the couple in hopes of experiencing her own discoveries. Upon arriving at Castello di Scogliera on the Amalfi coast of Italy, Henry and Maud venture out on their own while Cecile remains at the coastal castle. While the estate and gardens are exquisite, this fortress isn’t enough to conceal secrets and devious motivations.

“There are many places in the Castello where all is not as it seems. As in life, piety above and devilry below.”

As Henry and Maud make the most of their private time, married life certainly hasn’t conventionalized their relationship. Knowing the diversity each craves, Maud orchestrates erotic scenarios to indulge their sexual needs. During this time, Henry and Maud are blissfully unaware of lurking danger.

“How many women would you like, my love? How many soft mouths?"

"Or would you like a man to join us?”

With the focus on Cecile, she adjusts to her new surroundings and befriends Lucrezia di Cavour, half-sibling to Lorenzo di Cavour. Feeling a sisterly bond for the first time empowers Cecile to entrust Lucrezia with secrets. As Lorenzo begins to share his darker urges, Cecile is lured by his temptations proving her naivety in more than one way. But when Cecile continues to witness inexplicable oddities, it leads her to take action despite the threat of peril.

“My dear Lucrezia, what form would your rebellion take, had you not my little cages to rail against? I merely feed your desire to disobey.”

Narrated in third person, the atmosphere of the story is truly felt by all the senses appealing to aesthetic beauty of the Italian locale with the scent of citrus groves and the warm mist of the summer sea. However, as gothic elements are methodically weaved into the picturesque façade, deceit and depravity begin to reveal the true nature of these characters leading to a much darker reflection with some.

While Cecile seems to be the most pure and naïve character, her constitution is strong proving she is a modern woman for the era. With the continued development of Henry and Maud’s relationship, their nonconformity is thankfully ever present but Maud’s history remains more of a mystery due to new plot point. The inclusion of Lorenzo and Lucrezia is extremely intriguing and adds depravity with a degree of taboo.

Given the era of this novel, the author effectively pinpoints the pulse of issues affecting women during that time. While characters like Maud, Cecile and Lucrezia push boundaries, they must still play the game.

In Italian Sonata, Emmanuelle de Maupassant recreates a captivating world with her lyrical prose. For those seeking a gothic romance steeped in mystery and eroticism, I definitely recommend!




Noire series:





For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Italian Sonata is the second volume in Emmanuelle de Maupassant's noire trilogy, the first being The Gentlemen's Club. This one is a full and complete story in itself but to get the most from the characters, particularly Maud and Henry, I would advise you to read The Gentlemen's Club first.

Italian Sonata is set in 1899, mostly at a castle on cliffs high above the sea near Sorrento, Italy. Henry fell deeply and unconditionally in love with Maud in The Gentlemen's Club and this book follows straight on, travelling through Europe for Maud and Henry's honeymoon. Henry's sister, Cecile, at the insistence of Maud, accompanies them on their honeymoon. Part way through their European tour, Cecile stops off at the 'Castello' for a few days to give Maud and Henry time and privacy on their honeymoon. Little does naïve Cecile know that she is a sexual pawn between debauched Lorenzo and his promiscuous sister. The Castello holds its own dark secrets and before long Cecile is out of her depth.

Emmanuelle's writing is impeccable. She writes beautifully and poetically of places, people and, of course, the erotic sex scenes. She uses different language depending on the scenes – sweet roses and moist petals for loving scenes and thrusts, clenches and aggression for brute sex.

This noire series is a work of art. The eroticism, especially in The Gentlemen's Club, is second to none and, unlike many other books of the erotic genre, Emmanuelle's have a great storyline. There is a good sense of time and place. The countries of Europe are accurately and beautifully described, and the dark, gothic feel of the castle, the clothing and smells, puts you right back to the turn of the Victorian century.

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Greedy Wolf🐺🍆🌋👋Gets Bitten

Italy, Circa1899
The Conte Lorenzo di Cavour🐺🍆🌋👋 is a sexual deviant, born in or around 1860. Like his father before him, he's an extremely handsome and well put together man, a man who knows he is gorgeous and very sexual, and very attractive to women.
Lorenzo🐺🍆🌋👋 has debauched hundreds of young women, if not a thousand, from wives and heiresses, to chamber maids, with nary a hint of conscience. His butler, Serpico👹🍆🌋, is in the middle of all his exploits, joining in and even procuring young men for his master on occasion. There is no type of sexual contact or type of BDSM experience he won't try!

Now in his 40s, he is starting to think about an heir to inherit his title and all the land, castles, and riches that go along with it.
His half sister Lucrezia, is much younger, but just as debauched. The two make a bet between themselves about Cecile💃💋, the virgin sister of a newly married British nobleman, Henry. She accompanies Henry and his wife, Maud, to visit with the Conte and his Aunt Agatha, while they tour Italy.
The bet is which of the two, sister or half brother, will be the first to seduce and debauch the fair and naive, Cecile💃💋.

This tale is extremely well written and in the almost poetic prose of the period. I enjoyed the elegant writing as much as the tale of a very dirty, baaaad naaasssty man, a wolf🐺🍆🌋👋 who preys on and debauches young women💃 without a care in the world for the devastation he leaves behind. It's all a game to him, a game he always wins.

This book📑 is definitely XXX all the way through!

ARC Provided by the Author.

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/3/2018)! 💝

Blurb:
What dark secrets lie within those walls?
Madness, abduction, imprisonment... murder?
The past does not lie quietly.

Towering above its island of wave-lashed rock is Castello di Scogliera.
Look up at the narrow windows, and you might think yourself watched.
Something, or someone, has been waiting for Lady McCaulay to arrive…

Arriving in Italy, Lady Cecile McCaulay is enchanted by the Castello di Scogliera and its glamorous inhabitants: the Conte di Cavour and, Lucrezia, his beautiful half-sister. However, their lavish welcome hides darker motives and a third resident walks the ancient corridors of the castle, by night, unseen.

Meanwhile, Lord McCaulay and his new bride honeymoon on the Italian coast, unaware that malevolent forces threaten to destroy their new-found happiness.

A sumptuous Gothic Romance, filled with mystery, intrigue, and the lure of the sensuous, from the pen of Emmanuelle de Maupassant.

Italian Sonata is the second volume in the Noire trilogy.

[Rodin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henry and Maud are wonderful as the married couple chaperoning Cecile on their honeymoon.
The setting of Italy provides us with the mysterious Lorenzo and the beautiful Lucretia.
Brilliant follow-up to The Gentleman’s Club.
You need to read it first to understand this volume properly.
Both books are superbly written.
Great plots.
Wonderful characters
And steamy settings for the characters to indulge their erotic urges.
A beautiful five star historical romp.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting, lush, intriguing and engaging. Italian Sonata took me back through time to a period of love, deception, and drama. It kind of reminded me a bit like Dangerous Liaisons. Where betrayal and loyalty to kin rules. Cecile started out as a naive bunny but grew stronger within herself. It looked as if she got her happy ending after all. Lucrezia, who at first seemed to be as treacherous as her brother, turned out to have a conscience after all. And Lorenzo, handsome, but devious. met his fate and it was well deserved in the end. The jury is still out on Maud. All in all, an absolute delight to read.

[Joann Herley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Italian Sonata is a wonderful addition to the series. With every turn of the page you are enticed with strong characters, passion, intrigue, and suspense. Cecile , Henry’s sister, travels with Henry and Maude on their honeymoon which brings her to Castello di Scogliera. While there, she is befriended by Lucrezia and discovers the eerie mysteries of the villa, as well as, her own desires. The story turns dark with crimes of deceit and treachery. In some ways the story made me think of Jane Eyre and Dracula. It was captivating, and I look forward to the next story.

[Shannon White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very different story from any I've ever read.

Had me on the edge of my seat! Now i have to wait until 2019 to read more!!!! Argh... I hate waiting.

[Terrance Shaw · Rating 3 out of 5]

Emmanuelle de Maupassant’s latest foray into erotic romance gets an ‘A’ for atmosphere. There are so many gorgeously-written passages in ‘Italian Sonata’ evoking a rich Gothic ambiance, like a moonlit night garden in full bloom, drawing us in with its cloying hypnotic perfumes, it's hard to choose which blossom we like the best. Maupassant elegantly distills the night-haunted tropes of nineteenth-century Romanticism to build a storyworld at once delectable and foreboding—a world in which shadows themselves seem to come alive, disgorging mystery and horror. This is hardly surprising in a novel where ‘Dracula’ assumes the role of recurring literary symbol, Bram Stoker’s classic story with its powerfully erotic subtext opening dark doors in the naïve young heroine’s imagination. There’s a nod to the ‘Bluebeard’ story as well, that oft-told tale of gruesome secrets refracted through the language of Angela Carter in ‘The Bloody Chamber’. Where Maupassant’s influences show, they are only the very finest, indeed.

‘Italian Sonata’ is set in 1899 at the cusp of the new century, a time of near-boundless optimism limited only by the obsolescent mores of the fading Victorian Age. A follow-up to Maupassant’s acclaimed first effort, ‘The Gentleman’s Club’, if anything, her style has become more assured, her language more fluent. The Italian setting is vivid and colorful with here and there a smattering of the native tongue to add a spicy dash of ‘verismo.’ I like the strong-willed female characters; not so much modern-day ass-kickers like Buffy or Xena recycled in Victorian corsets and bustles, or anachronistic ‘proto-feminists’ like Philip Pullman’s Sally Lockhart, but equally adventuresome in their own way, thoughtful, curious, questioning, unwilling to accept the stultifying status quo just because “that’s the way things have always been done.” At their best, Maupassant’s heroines have genuine *agency* unlike so many of their airheaded counterparts in countless pot-boiling bodice-rippers and Regency romps. (I liked the way the future granny from Maupassant’s ‘Highland Pursuits’ makes a brief cameo near the beginning of this novel, remarked upon for her independent, adventuring spirit. Very cute!) These women are fearless when they must be, finding depths of courage within themselves they never realized they possessed until the moment of crisis calls it forth from hearts that are better than they know. When Maupassant sets up her romantic m/f/f triangle, we know who we want to see on top!

In all honesty, this is not a perfect novel. There are a number of technical flaws and inconsistencies that ought to have been sorted out in the editing process. Still, many readers—particularly the ones who aren’t writers themselves—will probably have little difficulty glossing over these issues as the story carries them along. In the end what’s good here far outweights what’s not. Recommended.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved reading the continuing adventures of Maud and Henry, along with the concentration on a new circle of friends and family, and villains. But what I really enjoyed about this book was that it brought me back to all the novels I’d read in a Gothic Literature course in college. It has all the classic points of a gothic tale with some very steamy scenes intertwined. Another great tale from Ms. de Maupassant.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lord Henry McCaulay and Lady Maud Franchingham are an unlikely pair, but they've managed to build a relationship that has surprised nearly all of London society. However, Lady Cecile McCauley, Henry's sister, is blissfully unaware of the couple's unconventional relationship and is thrilled by their marriage. She's even more elated when the couple encourages her to accompany them on their extended honeymoon through Europe. Their final destination is the Villa di Scogliera in Italy, near Sorrento, where Maud's Aunt Agatha resides. As the trio leaves London and travels through various cities throughout Europe, little do they realize what awaits them. Conte Lorenzo di Cavour is well-known throughout Europe, and not just for his wealth. His dissolute lifestyle is legendary. Upon the trio's arrival at the Villa di Scogliera, Maud's Aunt Agatha decides to retire to the Castello di Scogliera with Cecile to visit Lorenzo and his half-sister, Lucrezia, and to give Henry and Maud their privacy. Little does anyone realize that a plan will soon be set in place that may rock the lives of each and every member of this family and cause dissension, ruin, and potentially more. The deceptions are deep. The plan nefarious. But there are forces in play that even the perpetrator of the proposed villainy is unaware. Will Maud and Henry's newfound happiness together survive? Is it possible for Cecile to find a true friend and companion she can trust? Can Lucrezia be trusted? And what of Lorenzo? What does he truly want? Is it even possible for him to know? Ultimately, who will survive the evil machinations that have the very real possibility of destroying every member of this family?

Set in Victorian-era Italy, parts of Europe, and London, Italian Sonata is a fascinating story of the Victorian era's complete dichotomy of love, innocence, mistrust, playfulness, misogyny, double standards, and outright evil. The historical details of the period are outlined in exacting detail. The absolutely breathtaking descriptions of London, various locations in Europe, but particularly of the settings in Italy, are incredibly detailed and make you feel as if you've actually been there. Emmanuelle de Maupassant's knowledge of languages is beyond impressive. The story is filled with eroticism against the backdrop of the dishonesty, insincerity, and double standards inherent between the sexes during that era. She's created the most enchanting characters. My favorites parts of the story were the continual and surprising changes in the relationship between Maud and Henry, as well as the burgeoning and unsettling relationships between Cecile, Lucrezia, and Lorenzo. What truly delighted me was the totally unexpected ending of the book. I kept thinking I knew exactly where this story was headed. But, as so often happens with well-written stories, I was totally wrong. The ending is fascinating and took me by complete surprise. I truly enjoyed this book very much, and am looking forward to the third book in the series. I sincerely recommend Italian Sonata for anyone who's a fan of historical erotic romance. Emmanuelle de Maupassant has a true talent in this genre. This was an exceptional reading experience that demonstrates Ms. de Maupassant's ability to combine historical accuracy and breathtaking descriptive and evocative scenarios with erotic romance in a way I've seldom experienced.

One final note. Please be an informed reader and consumer! This is an ADULT book. It contains explicit language and sexual scenes. If you don't enjoy this genre, think hard before buying any book you know you won't enjoy. There are book synopses and reviews available on Goodreads and all booksellers' websites. Use these resources. DON'T LEAVE A NEGATIVE REVIEW WHEN YOU KNOW YOU WON'T ENJOY THE BOOK. It's not fair to the author. She works extremely hard to provide a quality work product. If you know you'll object to the book's subject matter before you buy it, you're doing yourself and the author an extreme disservice.

Thanks for reading my review and happy reading!

[Troubleinfl (Dee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love with Emmanuelle de Maupassant, who is undoubtedly my favorite author of all time. I first fell in love with her reading "The Gentleman's Club" and my one-sided affection continues with "Italian Sonata." Like any illicit romance, my heart beat wildly at the idea of starting this new novel. If you've read any of this author's work before, you'll know what I mean. If you haven't, then give yourself a huge hug and pick up "The Gentleman's Club" and "Italian Sonata."

Although the two stories are not specifically dependent on each other, I highly recommend that you read the books in order. The first book in the series is about many of the same characters as the 2nd book, and it really is important that you understand their history in order to fully appreciate the 2nd installment in the series. It's not necessary, but it will enrich your reading experience.

The author herself is magnificent. I know of no other that can craft such words into works of art while conveying something as down and dirty as a large unwashed sailor um..."having at?"... a woman while her husband watches. Emmanuelle de Maupassant does not write as if she is looking down her nose at her characters, but rather as one who embraces their individuality and celebrates their differences. I can almost imagine these characters whispering to her in the night, telling her their stories.

The story is hard to express since there are just so many facets to the work. There is light vs. dark, love vs. hate, sadism vs. pure love, lust vs. chastity and so forth. If it is a human condition, chances are that the characters in this series of books have it covered. You may not even realize the change as one turns away from darkness or when strength of resolve overtakes weakness and ignorance. The characters move and evolve, not always for the better, and this movement in tone and potential make the stories come alive.

Some of the wonderful lines from this book include:

- "He brushes against them as lightly as an insect pollinating a flower, taking what he needs, while leaving nothing in return but the promise of dismay...."

- "A good lover can make you sing, even when you believe you have no more songs in you."

-"His heart is a night garden of buried deeds, in which virtue has been strangled by rambling, venomous creepers, poisoned by the serpent's fang."

There is poetry in this author's words, but her books are not difficult to read or understand. Instead, I find that I savor each word and frequently pause to admire her turn of phrase. I do hope that there will be more volumes in this series and more books by Emmanuelle de Maupassant.

I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Emma Morreale · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deliciously evocative sequel to The Gentleman’s Club. I was not expecting the honeymoon of these the Lord and Lady to include Cecile. She’s so naïve about everything that isn’t from her books compared to her brother and new sister-in-law who have extremely developed tastes in sex particularly. When I first began this book, my first thought was that Cecile would get a horribly rude awakening. I didn’t want it because she was such a child but also I couldn’t wait for it to happen because she was honestly a little insufferable.
I was not expecting the introduction of four new characters right away but I thoroughly enjoyed the differences in each one between themselves and the characters from the last book. Lucrezia, the Padre, and Maria are all completely devoted to what is important to each of them while Lorenzo seems to be just like a fairy tale villain who only cares for his own pleasure and everyone else is irrelevant. He gets to hide behind his gentlemanly façade while his mind reveals a darker, much more interesting side. He’s only as interesting as he is because he has so much money, manners, and is aristocratic. If he was a commoner, he would honestly be the stuff of my nightmares and possibly a serial killer. Don’t know if that’s important but it what goes through my mind whenever I read a section about him.
I could read about these characters forever. Emmanuelle de Maupassant has a knack for intriguing characters with a broad range of personalities. She is great at hiding little bits of incomplete information in her stories to keep you thinking and feverishly hooked.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Italian Sonta: (Volume 2 in the Noire Series) by Emmanuelle De Maupassant is the second book in her Noire series. I highly recommend you read book one before this one as it is a continuation in this trilogy. Do don't want to miss this author's creative writing style and her attention to details. Her story brings hot, steamy romance and mystery. Her characters are connectable and will pull you into their story. I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn't put it down! This story has just a little bit of everything from murder, to abduction to hot steamy sex. I don't recommend this book to anyone under the age of 18 but I do highly recommend this book! This story has some twists and turns in that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat one minute and leaving you wanting ice water the next. This story is like two wrapped into one. The characters are connected but their stories are quite different. In one part of the story is about one man can be so controlling that it leaves others to seek revenge. The other part of this story is about Lady McCaulay and her mischief ways. You will also love the secondary characters for the most part but some are nasty. They do help the story flow into what it is. All of the characters are strong and controlling in some way which makes it interesting. You will find that one woman struggles with curiosity and is a little week but you will love her for the character she grows into. This is not my first book by this author and she continues to bring stories that I can't put down and I lose myself in. I highly recommend this book as it continues with Lady McCaulay. You won't regret picking this book up!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give Italian Sonata (book 2 in the Noire series) by Emmanuelle De Maupassant 4 stars
The review many contain spoilers from book 1.

This was a very enjoyable book. It centers around Cecile, Henry’s younger sister. The relationship between Maud and Henry is also furthered. There is a lot of erotica in the beginning of the book, but the story grows and gets much more intense and suspenseful as the book goes on.

While Henry and Maud are more than happy to have Cecile travel the world with them on their honeymoon, it is very apparent that they would like some alone time. This is how Cecile ends up as a guest at Castello di Scogliera. She is happy to have some quiet time and is quite pleased by the occupants of this mysterious place. It’s just like in the novels she loves. But all too quickly she realizes not all is as it seems.

In the beginning of the book, Cecile is very naïve and innocent. This was a little annoying to me, but very understandable considering the era. I was hoping that she was not like this the whole book. The naïve little thing seemingly blushing at every indiscretion is not my type of thing. But as the book goes on, it is apparent that Cecile is more than she seems. Her character and the events that happen in the latter part of the book are quite interesting. I like more of a story than just erotica, and the writer has not disappointed me at all. I could not put the book down once the action started.

If you like a wonderful adventure set in the past, with plenty of erotica added in, I highly recommend this novel.

[Patricia Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the gothic element to this book particularly in the prologue where the description of the castle gave me goosebumps, the eerie narrative drew me in and I couldn't wait for the story to begin.
Once the jaunt commenced I enjoyed taking a tour of Europe with Maud and her entourage, their excursion could well be described as rip roaring, events and encounters moving at a swift pace throughout the story.
The villain was truly horrid and very well written, a most despicable chap who I prayed would meet an unfortunate and painful end. I enjoyed meeting Maud and Henry again as I was curious to find out whether he would bring his wife to heel or she would remain in control of their relationship. I did admire her less than in the first book as I felt her character could be seen as slightly spiteful and selfish, unless of course she is sharing herself amongst others, then Maud is somewhat more giving. For me it was Cecile who rose to the fore in the personality stakes and I suspect if there is to be a follow up she may prove quite a match for any man and maybe even her sister-in-law.
The erotic elements within the book fit into the story well, hinting that Maud is constantly testing Henry and seeking to banish some demon and in the case of the Conte, he predilections are thankfully alluded to as for me, to have them described in detail would be too much. We have yet to discover Maud's secret and perhaps the cause of her behaviour so I am looking forward to more revelations in the future and perhaps a happy ending for Cecile, with or without the assistance of Lucretia!

[Jean Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Italian Sonata is like a fine full bodied wine. It has many varied notes. Italian Sonata is most definitely NOT for the uninitiated, prudish, or anyone under the age of eighteen. If, however, you are looking for a smoldering hot good read, Italian Sonata is your book.
Italian Sonata is both crude and elegant. It is very explicit in its descriptions of the various sexual acts that take place in the book. If you didn’t know how to do it, whatever “it” is that you want to know about, you will know how by the end of this book. This book is written almost as a song or poetry. It is very lyrical in its language. I am very strange in that I usually find erotica very boring. Not so Italian Sonata. Ms. Maupassant managed, through her unique use of language to not only engage me, but keep me engaged throughout the entire book. She writes a most complex gothic novel. And, she paints her world of intrigue with a very fine brush and an amazing eye for detail.
The erotica is very well written and all aspects of sexual intimacy are explored. Her descriptions are marvelously naughty and leave just enough to the imagination. Her characters represent their Victorian morals and immorals very well. Thankfully, we have almost outgrown them.
This book is tastefully well written. I enjoyed it. Brava Ms. Maupassant.

[Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Italian Sonata is the second book in Emmanuelle de Maupassant’s Noire series. It has a more traditionally Gothic feel to it than the first book as Maud, Lord McCaulay and his sister Cecile travel around Europe ending up at a supposedly haunted castle.
I’m a big fan of Gothic literature so was very excited to read this! Cecile reminded me a lot of Catherine from Northanger Abbey. Like Catherine, she is an avid reader of Gothic novels (Udolpho, Otranto and Dracula all get a mention) and is quick to form trusting friendships with those she meets. I’m glad we got to see more of Cecile and see her explore the world and develop as a character as she seemed a little bland in the first book.
The writing style is a little odd at time, using present tense and occasionally first person pronouns . The opening of Chapter 6 felt particularly odd: “What pleasure it is, after many weeks of travel, to find ourselves settled for a longer stay”. I see how this style could make the story feel closer and more immediate, and indeed at times it did this for me, but at other times I found it a little awkward.
Overall, an enjoyable read! Emmanuelle de Maupassant has done an excellent job of researching and introducing us to the world in which her story is set, and creating interesting characters that fit reasonably plausibly into the historic setting. I give this book four stars, and would highly recommend it to any fans of the Gothic who are up for reading a bit of erotica, or fans of erotica who fancy a Gothic twist! And if you’re a fan of both you absolutely should be reading this series!

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Italian Sonata: (Volume 2 in the Noire Series)
By: Emmanuelle de Maupassant
5 out of 5 stars

The story Italian Sonata: (Volume 2 in the Noire Series) by Emmanuelle de Maupassant is a gothic romance book. This is a story that once I started I didn’t want to put down until I had read the last page. It is a wonderful second book in the Noire Series. I was reading of schemes being planned and put into action. There are characters in this book that show no regard for anyone other than themselves. Most of the story takes place in the castle Castello di Scogliera which has a dark atmosphere. This is also a story that awakens the sensual side of one of the characters. I found that the author is very detail oriented when writing. It helped me visualize the places that are being described. I highly recommend this series be read in order as characters from the first book are in this one as well. The story is set in the Victorian time period. It is a time period when women were not allowed the freedoms that they enjoy today. I have found that this author has a wonderful imagination and that the way she writes makes the characters come alive. In this story, she takes you on a journey that you will not soon forget. Because of some scenes included in this book, I would recommend this story for those over the age of 18.

[Nikki LeClair · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredible!
It's such an enthralling erotic and romance, just as suspenseful as the first in the series.
There is so much underhanded betrayal in this story, I sped through it within two days and enjoyed it as much as I did the first one.
In this one, we join Henry's sister Cecile, who proves to be a sweet, innocent woman, who has no choice but to grow stronger during this story. It starts with her joining her brother and his new wife on their extended honeymoon, but when she gets to Castello di Scogliera with her aunt, and is greeted by Lorenzo and his half-sister Lucrezia, her entire world changes. From the moment you meet Lorenzo and his sister, you are unsure of whether you can trust them. Or whether Cecile can. Lorenzo was very interesting because i constantly bordered between hating him and loving him for what he could be if he tried to change. He was wealthy and arrogant, as the story progresses, you see how heinous he truly is. The sex scenes are as breath taking as the first and incredibly imaginative.
Can't wait for the next in the series!

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Italian Sonata
By Emmanuelle de Maupassant
4 stars

This is the second book that I have read by this author and I was everything I expected! Historical romance is one of my favourite genres but this author takes that the next level with the added eroticism! The level of detail in describing the scenery is just beautiful. The sex scenes are steamy and hot without being too over the top – a perfect balance I think. I loved how we got to continue on with Henry and Maud’s story from book 1. One of the things I really like is the way this author has lots of mini stories going on in the book and then they all tie up together. Sometimes when books jump about they can be confusing but this never happens in this story at all. Everything is really clear, flows well and has a great pace to it. There were also a few unexpected twists and turns too which made the story even more exciting to read.
A really good series so far – I hope there is more to come! I definitely recommend this series for historical romance lovers with a little bit extra!!

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title:Italian Sonata
Author:Emmanuelle de Maupassant
Series: Noire #2

Italian Sonata was a great 5 star read.
I highly suggest reading book one in the Noire series before this one. It will help you understand things better.We have several characters that we get to know in the series.

Henry and Maud invite Cecile (Henry’s sister) to travel with them on their honeymoon. Their final destination will be in Italy.

We also meet Lorenzo who is quite the interesting man and the ladies love him. Lucrezia is his sister and she has a mysterious side to her. Let’s just say that the relationship between brother and sister is very interesting.

The night is made from stars, as much as from the darkness.

Cecile meets Lorenzo when she goes to stay at Castello di Scogliera. This place is mysterious and has some unusual happenings. She starts to find herself intrigued by Lorenzo, there is something about him that is scary but yet mysterious.

The rest must endure their shackles, regardless of discomfort….or desire for escape - Lorenzo

I really am enjoying this series, you get mystery, erotic sex, suspense and so much more in this gothic victorian setting. Emmanuelle does a great job of pulling you right in and you won’t want to stop until your done. The way the story is written you find yourself connecting with the characters. The ending was great and not what I expected. I can’t wait to read the next book in this great series.

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Italian​ ​Sonata​ ​is​ ​the​ ​second​ ​book​ ​in​ ​the​ ​Noire​ ​Series​ ​by​ ​Emmanuelle​ ​de​ ​Maupassant.​ ​It​ ​is​ ​a​ ​very dark​ ​and​ ​gothic​ ​romance​ ​story​ ​that​ ​is​ ​set​ ​in​ ​the​ ​Victorian​ ​period.​ ​It​ ​was​ ​hard​ ​to​ ​put​ ​down​ ​as​ ​it kept​ ​drawing​ ​you​ ​in​ ​as​ ​Emmanuelle​ ​is​ ​very​ ​detailed​ ​and​ ​imaginative​ ​when​ ​telling​ ​this​ ​sordid​ ​tale. It​ ​is​ ​filled​ ​with​ ​mystery​ ​and​ ​intrigue​ ​and​ ​will​ ​lure​ ​you​ ​in​ ​and​ ​see​ ​you​ ​wanting​ ​to​ ​uncover​ ​the​ ​dark secrets​ ​surrounding​ ​the​ ​home​ ​and​ ​these​ ​people.​ ​This​ ​story​ ​is​ ​both​ ​erotic​ ​and​ ​sensual​ ​and​ ​both disturbing​ ​and​ ​thrilling​ ​and​ ​will​ ​make​ ​your​ ​heart​ ​beat​ ​a​ ​little​ ​faster.
If​ ​you​ ​like​ ​a​ ​dark​ ​erotic​ ​tale​ ​then​ ​look​ ​no​ ​further.​ ​I​ ​would​ ​recommend​ ​it​ ​to​ ​those​ ​over​ ​the​ ​age​ ​of 18.

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Italian Sonata is the second book in the Noire Book series by Emmanuelle de Maupassant. I recommend reading the first book in the series to give you the background of some of the characters. The story is a continuation of the first book. Now the scenery is changing to travels across Europe and ending in Italy at the Castello di Scogliera with the newlyweds Henry and Maud accompanied by Henry's sister Cecile.
The story is intriguing and full of twists and mystery. Also, there are some steamy sex scenes. If you are not comfortable with erotica this book is not for you. I enjoyed how the author wove those scenes into the story. The scenes did not feel forced like most steamy books. Often books that have lots of sex scenes I skip over to get to the plot. I found the story intriguing, the characters are well developed, and I always enjoy twists and turns.

[Ian D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A walk on the slightly darker side...

If you want an elegantly-told story, one which keeps you wondering where it’s going, this might just tickle your fancy. It’s the second in a series, and I suspect there are elements of backstory which rely on the first. So that’s the next on my “to be read list”.

Engaging characters, elements of gothic horror, some distinctly dark eroticism, and written with a sort-of-period-feel to the voice. It took me a little while to really get into it, as the story built up, a bit like an ocean wave. But once I did, I was hooked.

[Roxana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had originally planned on reading Italian Sonata by Emmanuelle de Maupassant without realizing that it was the second installment. So I decided to go backwards and read The Gentleman’s Club and then dive into Italian Sonata.

Let me just say that I was not disappointed at all! The storyline is like non other. It was an experience of in itself.

This was definitely a captivating storyline, with well developed characters and a world where I definitely enjoyed being pulled into!

Definitely a 5 Star Review for me!!!

[Charlie B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emmanuelle has definitely moved to the dark side with this second book in the series, the influence of Poe is definitely running through this story as an undertone to the main event. Creepy Castles, creepy suitors and some very strange goings on of a sexual nature will perk up your interest, secret undertones will draw you on until the climax. The Text in impeccably Gothic, the plot runs along nicely, and the erotica drips through the scenes like slippery treacle. Great read.

[C Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is more of Gothic mystery than erotica.

I was blindsided since I was expecting the hedonistic abandon of Maud in the first book; while there is that, there are new characters added to the mix.

I was expecting Cecile (Henry's younger sister) to be seduced by the Count. Not to spoil anything here, he tried and succeeded for a bit, but there's something dark at play here.

I'm relieved that some gruesome events weren't discussed in detail and while there's no ending, I liked the last part.

[Krystal gaston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Italian Sonata written by Emmanuelle De Maupassant. Italian Sonata is the second volume in the Noire trilogy. This is a gothic romance with a little mystery and intrigue. This was an interesting story for me and for readers 18+. The characters were interesting and unique. There is a lot of sensuality and sexual parts in this story. The story overall was great, and kept me intrigued as to what would happen and to whom. Lucrezia and Lorenzo are a couple of the main characters and they are interesting and addicting and very unusual. I did not read volume one first but I am going to go back and read it.

[Sandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an free copy of Italian Sonata. Luved the description of the Castello di Scogliera. You could feel the darkness come alive. The continuing story of Maud and Henry has many twists to their relationship. I look forward to their adventure. Interested in how Cecile and Lucrezia's story develops.