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Season for Scandal #3.5
The Lady in Red
A lady with secrets, a man with a burning desire, a love that breaks all the rules
Lady Charlotte Beaumont has spent her whole life being ignored. By her parents, her brother, even the servants. So she was secretly able to develop her talent for painting well beyond the usual watercolors. Too bad no one will let her actually use it-women are rarely accepted into the Royal Academy. But when a connection at the Haverhall School for Young Ladies gets Charlotte her dream commission, she'll do whatever it takes to make it work. Including disguising herself as "Charlie."
Flynn Rutledge has something to prove. His lowly upbringing is not going to stop him from achieving his artistic dreams. This commission is the key to his future, and his partner, an unknown youth in oversized clothes who is barely old enough to shave, doesn't exactly inspire confidence. But Charlie does inspire Flynn's artistic passion-something he worried he might have lost forever. For all his street smarts, nothing can prepare Flynn for the shock of Charlie's true identity. He doesn't care that she's a woman, but a lady of the ton is a different matter altogether...
Lady Charlotte Beaumont has spent her whole life being ignored. By her parents, her brother, even the servants. So she was secretly able to develop her talent for painting well beyond the usual watercolors. Too bad no one will let her actually use it-women are rarely accepted into the Royal Academy. But when a connection at the Haverhall School for Young Ladies gets Charlotte her dream commission, she'll do whatever it takes to make it work. Including disguising herself as "Charlie."
Flynn Rutledge has something to prove. His lowly upbringing is not going to stop him from achieving his artistic dreams. This commission is the key to his future, and his partner, an unknown youth in oversized clothes who is barely old enough to shave, doesn't exactly inspire confidence. But Charlie does inspire Flynn's artistic passion-something he worried he might have lost forever. For all his street smarts, nothing can prepare Flynn for the shock of Charlie's true identity. He doesn't care that she's a woman, but a lady of the ton is a different matter altogether...
48 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2017
121 people are currently reading
498 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Bowen
21 books1,373 followersAward-winning author Kelly Bowen attended the University of Manitoba, earning a BSc & MSc in veterinary studies. She worked as a research scientist before realizing her dream to write historical fiction. Currently, Kelly lives with her family in Winnipeg, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
December 6, 2017
Going in blind…the ups and downs.
Kelly Bowen has become an auto-buy author for me. By chance, I came across a book of hers on Amazon and I didn’t recognise it. On further study, I realised it was a new book that hadn’t yet been released. Clapping my hands in glee, I one-clicked that sucker.
I knew it was coming. I waited with bated breath. Then, the day arrived, the hour arrived, the email arrived. The Lady in Red is here.
But…what’s this?
(What follows is a true re-enactment of the arrival…)
- Email received. YIPPEE!!
- A quick skim and something doesn’t look quite right.
- Me, talking to myself – Geez, it’s awfully cheap.
- Maybe Ms Bowen is being sweet and giving it to us for a bargain (shrug my shoulders).
- I’ll take this gift…
- Checking my kindle and realising it’s downloaded.
- Open my kindle copy.
- Huh??? I haven’t finished the first chapter and it’s already at 7%???
- BUGGER IT ALL!!
- How did I not realise it’s a novella?
The pitfalls of the auto-buy…buying without looking and thinking you’ve struck gold with an unknown full-length novel.
So, turns out Ms Bowen has given us a treat, it’s just a wee one. Lucky for us, we’re introduced to interesting characters, a riveting storyline and a love story that’s original and very satisfying.
I don’t want to give too much away, but again, we get to see the injustices women faced back in the day. What makes Ms Bowen’s stories interesting, is that we get to see strong, intelligent and determined women doing what they do best…being strong, intelligent and determined. Yes, these women have to be a little unconventional to have their say or act on their instincts, but their not afraid to try. In this story, a woman dares to be an artist of something other than watercolours AND she wants her art to be seen. THE HORROR!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this wee treat and apologise to Ms Bowen for being disappointed that I didn’t get the find of the year. Kelly Bowen fans will be delighted with this short story and I’m sure, like me, are desperate for more.
Before I go...I'm not sure why this book is called The Lady in Red as I'm not even sure if she wears a red dress??? It could be my memory though...🤔
Kelly Bowen has become an auto-buy author for me. By chance, I came across a book of hers on Amazon and I didn’t recognise it. On further study, I realised it was a new book that hadn’t yet been released. Clapping my hands in glee, I one-clicked that sucker.
I knew it was coming. I waited with bated breath. Then, the day arrived, the hour arrived, the email arrived. The Lady in Red is here.
But…what’s this?
(What follows is a true re-enactment of the arrival…)
- Email received. YIPPEE!!
- A quick skim and something doesn’t look quite right.
- Me, talking to myself – Geez, it’s awfully cheap.
- Maybe Ms Bowen is being sweet and giving it to us for a bargain (shrug my shoulders).
- I’ll take this gift…
- Checking my kindle and realising it’s downloaded.
- Open my kindle copy.
- Huh??? I haven’t finished the first chapter and it’s already at 7%???
- BUGGER IT ALL!!
- How did I not realise it’s a novella?
The pitfalls of the auto-buy…buying without looking and thinking you’ve struck gold with an unknown full-length novel.
So, turns out Ms Bowen has given us a treat, it’s just a wee one. Lucky for us, we’re introduced to interesting characters, a riveting storyline and a love story that’s original and very satisfying.
I don’t want to give too much away, but again, we get to see the injustices women faced back in the day. What makes Ms Bowen’s stories interesting, is that we get to see strong, intelligent and determined women doing what they do best…being strong, intelligent and determined. Yes, these women have to be a little unconventional to have their say or act on their instincts, but their not afraid to try. In this story, a woman dares to be an artist of something other than watercolours AND she wants her art to be seen. THE HORROR!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this wee treat and apologise to Ms Bowen for being disappointed that I didn’t get the find of the year. Kelly Bowen fans will be delighted with this short story and I’m sure, like me, are desperate for more.
Before I go...I'm not sure why this book is called The Lady in Red as I'm not even sure if she wears a red dress??? It could be my memory though...🤔
December 12, 2017
WOW! Just WOW!
What a wonderful novella! I usually don't like novellas, but this one was wonderful thanks to the inconventional hero and heroine!
A beatiful, slightly incredible story about two lost souls who help each other and as consequence fall in love with each other!
I also appreciated the unusual placement: a world of painters! Both of them are artists. One unjustly shunned by the critics (who, by the way, seem incompetent), the other unable to be an artist in spite of her talent because it's not a noble woman's profession.
What will they do? I'm sure you already know it! :)
Well, if you like a good HR, this one is for you!
What a wonderful novella! I usually don't like novellas, but this one was wonderful thanks to the inconventional hero and heroine!
A beatiful, slightly incredible story about two lost souls who help each other and as consequence fall in love with each other!
I also appreciated the unusual placement: a world of painters! Both of them are artists. One unjustly shunned by the critics (who, by the way, seem incompetent), the other unable to be an artist in spite of her talent because it's not a noble woman's profession.
What will they do? I'm sure you already know it! :)
Well, if you like a good HR, this one is for you!
February 19, 2018
What a wonderful story!
It’s novella but it didn’t feel incomplete or short:)
This series had been an amazing read for me, the heroines in this series are very unusual, brave, intelligent and they were so different from the typical heroine from this genre. I guess you need to read it to understand what I mean.
Btw Ms. Bowen, I will ask again, when will we get King’s story???
Highly recommend series if you read Historical Romance:)
It’s novella but it didn’t feel incomplete or short:)
This series had been an amazing read for me, the heroines in this series are very unusual, brave, intelligent and they were so different from the typical heroine from this genre. I guess you need to read it to understand what I mean.
Btw Ms. Bowen, I will ask again, when will we get King’s story???
Highly recommend series if you read Historical Romance:)
October 9, 2023
Lady Charlotte Beaumount does art good. She makes a deal with a Henry VIII knock off known as King in order to get a place as an artist for a major commission. Once there, she meets Flynn Rutledge who has angst to spare. Once everyone's sexual organs have been revealed, they bone.
1. I think I struggle with undercover romances because the authors so often pull their punches with the non-undercover character's attraction. Like, I struggle with assuming that a romantic attraction for someone is entirely dependent on them have the "correct" genitals for attraction to take. That approach, to me, just cheapens all the non-sexual friendships and relationships I think humans can have, since it positions some friendships as "waiting for the dick to drop" before it'd be sexual/romantic in nature.
So having Flynn go from "friend Charlie" to "lover Charlotte" really undercut what I think Bowen was trying to do. The relationship didn't feel like love; it felt like lust™, contingent upon boobs to achieve. It's all just boring, and really calls into question some of the internalized gender bullshit that plagues us all.
(Listen, Shang walked so romance authors could run when it comes to undercover gender nonsense.)
2. Charlotte was fine. Way to have some gumption, I guess? Go get 'em?
3. Flynn was pretty lame, all things considered.
1. I think I struggle with undercover romances because the authors so often pull their punches with the non-undercover character's attraction. Like, I struggle with assuming that a romantic attraction for someone is entirely dependent on them have the "correct" genitals for attraction to take. That approach, to me, just cheapens all the non-sexual friendships and relationships I think humans can have, since it positions some friendships as "waiting for the dick to drop" before it'd be sexual/romantic in nature.
So having Flynn go from "friend Charlie" to "lover Charlotte" really undercut what I think Bowen was trying to do. The relationship didn't feel like love; it felt like lust™, contingent upon boobs to achieve. It's all just boring, and really calls into question some of the internalized gender bullshit that plagues us all.
(Listen, Shang walked so romance authors could run when it comes to undercover gender nonsense.)
2. Charlotte was fine. Way to have some gumption, I guess? Go get 'em?
3. Flynn was pretty lame, all things considered.
December 16, 2018
Cute read, but the cover and title does not match the story at all.
August 11, 2019
This novella packs quite a punch! The enigmatic King has his fingerprints all over it,
But Charlie steals my breath away!
But Charlie steals my breath away!
December 16, 2017
Misleading cover and title aside, The Lady in Red was all of my catnip. I mean, two artists falling in love? YES PLEASE AND THANK YOU. But what really made this one a winner was Kelly Bowen’s prose and her ongoing ability in creating amazing heroines. Lady Charlotte Beaumont was no exception and it was she who ended up being the true standout here.
I believe Flynn at one point describes Charlotte as a warrior and I couldn’t agree more. After living a sheltered existence, practically locked away from the rest of the world by a family who did not appreciate her, Charlotte breaks out of her suffocating prison in order to seek of life of freedom and fulfillment through her art. Along the way, she meets Flynn Rutledge who was, well, kind of ass in the first degree. He was grumpy, defensive and in all honesty, not in the least bit deserving of someone as incredibly complex and sublime as Charlotte. That being said, Charlotte was eventually able to soften Flynn’s around the edges and in doing so they ended up developing quite the connection. I think their ability to connect on a deeper level, first through art and later through friendship, helped sell their very unlikely romance. Actually I could’ve done with an entire book of nothing but Flynn and Charlotte making love (THAT FIREPLACE SCENE MY GOD) and discussing art. It was a soulful union between them, no doubt about it.
Unfortunately, Flynn’s douchery had to go and rear its ugly head once again at the end, nearly ruining all of the magic. I’m of course speaking of his ire at after learning that Charlotte was a Lady. That’s right. He had no problem with her being a woman (after she had been previously disguising herself a man), but a noblewoman? OH NO. Really, Flynn? So yeah, Flynn was super dumb at the end and it annoyed the hell out of me. I could barely enjoy Charlotte’s grand gesture in the final chapter because I didn’t think Flynn deserved it, or Charlotte for that matter. UGH. Well, if nothing else, Flynn did give us these epic lines at the very least.
Yeah. So there was that, and Flynn wholly supporting and encouraging Charlotte’s artistic ambitions and talent. Not a complete douche then, but he definitely needed better grovel in my opinion. Overall, this novella was still better than most novellas of its kind. Hence, the upgraded rating. Don’t ask me about my rating system, I still don’t understand it, or me.
Can I just end this review by gushing all over Kelly Bowen’s writing once again? SHE IS SO GOOD. I can’t wait for her new series, with this novella serving as a bit of prequel of sorts. Oh and by the way, WHERE IS KING’S BOOK????? ‘Cause I’m still waiting *twiddles thumbs*
I believe Flynn at one point describes Charlotte as a warrior and I couldn’t agree more. After living a sheltered existence, practically locked away from the rest of the world by a family who did not appreciate her, Charlotte breaks out of her suffocating prison in order to seek of life of freedom and fulfillment through her art. Along the way, she meets Flynn Rutledge who was, well, kind of ass in the first degree. He was grumpy, defensive and in all honesty, not in the least bit deserving of someone as incredibly complex and sublime as Charlotte. That being said, Charlotte was eventually able to soften Flynn’s around the edges and in doing so they ended up developing quite the connection. I think their ability to connect on a deeper level, first through art and later through friendship, helped sell their very unlikely romance. Actually I could’ve done with an entire book of nothing but Flynn and Charlotte making love (THAT FIREPLACE SCENE MY GOD) and discussing art. It was a soulful union between them, no doubt about it.
Unfortunately, Flynn’s douchery had to go and rear its ugly head once again at the end, nearly ruining all of the magic. I’m of course speaking of his ire at after learning that Charlotte was a Lady. That’s right. He had no problem with her being a woman (after she had been previously disguising herself a man), but a noblewoman? OH NO. Really, Flynn? So yeah, Flynn was super dumb at the end and it annoyed the hell out of me. I could barely enjoy Charlotte’s grand gesture in the final chapter because I didn’t think Flynn deserved it, or Charlotte for that matter. UGH. Well, if nothing else, Flynn did give us these epic lines at the very least.
“Listen to me and listen carefully. You, Charlotte Beaumont, are beautiful. Your beauty, the sort that comes from within, had made me a better version of myself. Because your beauty defies mere description. It is something far more intangible and something far more precious.”
Yeah. So there was that, and Flynn wholly supporting and encouraging Charlotte’s artistic ambitions and talent. Not a complete douche then, but he definitely needed better grovel in my opinion. Overall, this novella was still better than most novellas of its kind. Hence, the upgraded rating. Don’t ask me about my rating system, I still don’t understand it, or me.
Can I just end this review by gushing all over Kelly Bowen’s writing once again? SHE IS SO GOOD. I can’t wait for her new series, with this novella serving as a bit of prequel of sorts. Oh and by the way, WHERE IS KING’S BOOK????? ‘Cause I’m still waiting *twiddles thumbs*
December 1, 2017
The Lady in Red by Kelly Bowen is the story of a woman who goes to great lengths to chase her dreams, and gets a reward even bigger than she’d imagined.
Lady Charlotte Beaumont has been largely ignored by her family for years. This absence of notice has meant she’s been able to hone her artistic talents in secret, developing unmatched skills in reproductions and in creating her own stunning paintings. In desperation to change her fortunes, she turns to a known criminal to try to sell one of her forgeries – one he recognizes isn’t the real thing. In return for the whereabouts of the real painting she’s credibly copied, he agrees to help her. The result is a disguise and a chance to work as one of two craftsmen on a commission of Renaissance murals for St. Michael’s. It’s her dream job, even if she has to pretend to be a young man to get it.
Flynn Rutledge has learned the hard way that he and the nobility don’t mix after a failed love affair and more worriedly, a loss of his artistic drive. Though he’s got the commission to work on the murals at St. Michael’s from his previous accreditation, he has lost the spark of ingenuity. That is, until ‘Charlie’ comes to work with him. His youthful partner helps him divine the nature of the murals that will be the talk of the town when completed. They work well together, Charlie offering Flynn friendship and quiet confidence that helps restore his lack of faith in himself. But when Flynn finds out that Charlie is really Charlotte, will it ruin their friendship or be the start of something even better?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie at: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-the...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Lady Charlotte Beaumont has been largely ignored by her family for years. This absence of notice has meant she’s been able to hone her artistic talents in secret, developing unmatched skills in reproductions and in creating her own stunning paintings. In desperation to change her fortunes, she turns to a known criminal to try to sell one of her forgeries – one he recognizes isn’t the real thing. In return for the whereabouts of the real painting she’s credibly copied, he agrees to help her. The result is a disguise and a chance to work as one of two craftsmen on a commission of Renaissance murals for St. Michael’s. It’s her dream job, even if she has to pretend to be a young man to get it.
Flynn Rutledge has learned the hard way that he and the nobility don’t mix after a failed love affair and more worriedly, a loss of his artistic drive. Though he’s got the commission to work on the murals at St. Michael’s from his previous accreditation, he has lost the spark of ingenuity. That is, until ‘Charlie’ comes to work with him. His youthful partner helps him divine the nature of the murals that will be the talk of the town when completed. They work well together, Charlie offering Flynn friendship and quiet confidence that helps restore his lack of faith in himself. But when Flynn finds out that Charlie is really Charlotte, will it ruin their friendship or be the start of something even better?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie at: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-the...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
December 6, 2017
Interesting premise. An underappreciated, unloved daughter of an earl, Lady Charlotte Beaumont, is a very talented artist. Problem is she's a woman so she's not taken seriously. She brings herself to the attention of (somewhat shady?) art dealer King, a recurring character in Bowen's series A Season for Scandal, and lands a job working on murals at St. Michael's church, along with Flynn Rutledge, another very talented artist who is underappreciated because he's from the lower class, the son of a whore. Flynn is bitter and resentful of the upper class because of this and because of his treatment by his upper-class former lover, who humiliated him.
Charlotte takes the commission as Charlie Beaumont, disguising herself as a young man. Flynn apparently is fooled at first...until an event that reveals her gender to him. Then we have some insta-love followed by some predictable misunderstandings followed by an eventual HEA. Everything worked for me at first. I enjoyed the writing, the characters, their budding relationship as artistic partners, the fact that Flynn had been in a slump artistically until being inspired by Charlie's enthusiasm, ideas, and kindness.
This lost some of its charm for me when Charlie's gender got sorted out. The romantic relationship then developed too fast and disintegrated on a flimsy, predictable misunderstanding, and then had to be quickly resolved, all because of the constraints of the length of novellas. I prefer the subtlety a longer novel can provide. The romance aspect here was predictable and unoriginal and quick to appear. The art aspect, however, was a good idea and done well by Bowen. I wish the confusion about the heroine's gender had continued a bit longer to keep the relationship platonic for a longer period of time.
Charlotte takes the commission as Charlie Beaumont, disguising herself as a young man. Flynn apparently is fooled at first...until an event that reveals her gender to him. Then we have some insta-love followed by some predictable misunderstandings followed by an eventual HEA. Everything worked for me at first. I enjoyed the writing, the characters, their budding relationship as artistic partners, the fact that Flynn had been in a slump artistically until being inspired by Charlie's enthusiasm, ideas, and kindness.
This lost some of its charm for me when Charlie's gender got sorted out. The romantic relationship then developed too fast and disintegrated on a flimsy, predictable misunderstanding, and then had to be quickly resolved, all because of the constraints of the length of novellas. I prefer the subtlety a longer novel can provide. The romance aspect here was predictable and unoriginal and quick to appear. The art aspect, however, was a good idea and done well by Bowen. I wish the confusion about the heroine's gender had continued a bit longer to keep the relationship platonic for a longer period of time.
June 24, 2019
Ahhh wish it was longer!!!!! Loved these characters & storyline!!!! Will have to read more from this series & author! Highly recommended!
November 17, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2A6h4Pj
The Lady in Red was full of artsy goodness.
The Gist: Two artists--one in disguise--working on a mural for the church. And both struggling with their art in different ways.
Charlotte and Flynn were solid characters. I liked their chemistry and seeing them work together on the murals even when they were bickering and how the project changed them both. He'd lost his artistic inspiration after becoming jaded with the art community. And Charlotte is trying to break into the community as a serious artist even if she has to hide the fact she's a woman.
A little heat, a little drama, a big gesture. The two definitely had me in their corner and rooting for them both. All in all, a nice evening read, though, surprisingly Christmas free.
April 14, 2018
I’ve enjoyed every installment in this series so far and though this novella veered a little from thread of the main books, it was still a hit for me. This story had nothing to do with the Chegarre & Associates firm who does such a great job fixing problems for the ton. But it’s linked to the other installments by the enigmatic and thoroughly fascinating King character. This is a man who can make anything happen. Here, he is helping Lady Charlotte find a post as an artist.
Charlotte is very gifted at her craft, but no one would ever take a Lady seriously as an artist. So King sets her up with a phony male identity to work on a major project. Her unwitting partner is Flynn Rutledge, a talented artist from the wrong side of the tracks with a chip on his shoulder and a distaste for aristocratic women. Thank Goodness, he only knows Charlotte as “Charlie,” at least for a time.
Since it’s a novella, the story moves quickly and the deception about Charlotte’s gender doesn’t last too long. I really liked how self-possessed this heroine is. She boldly goes after what she wants, yet she is warm-hearted and careful with Flynn’s feelings. As for the hero, he’s got some issues from his last lady-love that make him do some bone-headed stuff, but it’s not so egregious that I couldn’t forgive him. He’s a good guy at his core—he loved his mom and he wants to make her proud—it’s just that ex of his really did a number on him. It’s hard for him to trust and, even sometimes, to believe in himself.
The story follows the path you would expect, but it’s a good ride.
More than anything, though, it left me more convinced than ever that I need a King book. Do you hear me Kelly Bowen?? I need it now.
Rating: B/B+
*ARC provided by publisher
Charlotte is very gifted at her craft, but no one would ever take a Lady seriously as an artist. So King sets her up with a phony male identity to work on a major project. Her unwitting partner is Flynn Rutledge, a talented artist from the wrong side of the tracks with a chip on his shoulder and a distaste for aristocratic women. Thank Goodness, he only knows Charlotte as “Charlie,” at least for a time.
Since it’s a novella, the story moves quickly and the deception about Charlotte’s gender doesn’t last too long. I really liked how self-possessed this heroine is. She boldly goes after what she wants, yet she is warm-hearted and careful with Flynn’s feelings. As for the hero, he’s got some issues from his last lady-love that make him do some bone-headed stuff, but it’s not so egregious that I couldn’t forgive him. He’s a good guy at his core—he loved his mom and he wants to make her proud—it’s just that ex of his really did a number on him. It’s hard for him to trust and, even sometimes, to believe in himself.
The story follows the path you would expect, but it’s a good ride.
More than anything, though, it left me more convinced than ever that I need a King book. Do you hear me Kelly Bowen?? I need it now.
Rating: B/B+
*ARC provided by publisher
December 20, 2017
When it comes to novellas, I'm usually a broken record. I love the ones where they already knew each other or a story continuation, but I struggle when it's new characters. So I was delighted with how in depth and well-developed these characters were. It's hard to look back on it and even think it was short, because I felt like so much happened and the characters had a lot of depth.
The only disappointment? Despite the cover, this really had no Christmas connection.
This book is technically the end of the Season for Scandal series, but I'd really more consider it a prequel to Bowen's upcoming series. She received a lot of fan mail and questions about King from this series, and this book bridges the gap since King will now get a book in the new series. I cannot wait. He opens up and closes out this novella and it only made me want more. Also, the entire set up for the new series leaves me excited for every single upcoming book. The setting is going to be a good one!
The only disappointment? Despite the cover, this really had no Christmas connection.
This book is technically the end of the Season for Scandal series, but I'd really more consider it a prequel to Bowen's upcoming series. She received a lot of fan mail and questions about King from this series, and this book bridges the gap since King will now get a book in the new series. I cannot wait. He opens up and closes out this novella and it only made me want more. Also, the entire set up for the new series leaves me excited for every single upcoming book. The setting is going to be a good one!
December 6, 2017
I like where the new series is heading. I hope that we get more stories of the "students" for their HEAs. I think that could be an interesting premise. Maybe one of the "male" doctors?
December 17, 2017
3.5 stars, rounding down
December 7, 2017
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
Lady Charlotte Beaumont will stop at nothing to achieve her goal in The Lady in Red by Kelly Bowen. She will take up a clever disguise to get to her dream, but how will she continue to hide whom she really is?
Every year, Lady Charlotte Beaumont goes home for a time, but then is sent to the summer home and ignored until it is time for her to go back once again. During this time, she spends her hours painting and perfecting her skill. Since she is an overly educated woman, she has no prospects, because men are not interested in an educated lady. So what is there to do? She must get out of this existence, or she will never be able to find peace in her life.
While attempting to pass off a forgery of a popular painter, she presented an opportunity to work on her dream commission. She has to put on a disguise to cover who she is, and so she becomes Charlie.
Flynn Rutledge is a painter who has lost his passion. Working with Charlie seems like a great way to get his inspiration back. However, Charlie and Flynn do not agree on any part of the process. What to do? Charlie’s drive and passion, ignites the same within Flynn, and the work that comes from it is beautiful.
What will happen when Flynn finds out that Charlie is a woman? Not only a woman, but also a Lady? How will this affect the work?
I like this story of a lady who will do anything to follow her dreams, come what may. Kelly Bowen writes clearly and with purpose. The passion that comes from doing something you love can be found in both Charlotte and Flynn. This was a great representation of the time and the efforts that women needed to go through to have themselves taken seriously, even if no one ever finds out that it is them.
This is a quick and wonderful read. Five stars.
Lady Charlotte Beaumont will stop at nothing to achieve her goal in The Lady in Red by Kelly Bowen. She will take up a clever disguise to get to her dream, but how will she continue to hide whom she really is?
Every year, Lady Charlotte Beaumont goes home for a time, but then is sent to the summer home and ignored until it is time for her to go back once again. During this time, she spends her hours painting and perfecting her skill. Since she is an overly educated woman, she has no prospects, because men are not interested in an educated lady. So what is there to do? She must get out of this existence, or she will never be able to find peace in her life.
While attempting to pass off a forgery of a popular painter, she presented an opportunity to work on her dream commission. She has to put on a disguise to cover who she is, and so she becomes Charlie.
Flynn Rutledge is a painter who has lost his passion. Working with Charlie seems like a great way to get his inspiration back. However, Charlie and Flynn do not agree on any part of the process. What to do? Charlie’s drive and passion, ignites the same within Flynn, and the work that comes from it is beautiful.
What will happen when Flynn finds out that Charlie is a woman? Not only a woman, but also a Lady? How will this affect the work?
I like this story of a lady who will do anything to follow her dreams, come what may. Kelly Bowen writes clearly and with purpose. The passion that comes from doing something you love can be found in both Charlotte and Flynn. This was a great representation of the time and the efforts that women needed to go through to have themselves taken seriously, even if no one ever finds out that it is them.
This is a quick and wonderful read. Five stars.
November 22, 2017
Lady Charlotte Beaumont has brought her forgery of a Van Dyck painting in order to sell it, and have enough money to be able to pay for lodgings and find a position, far from the family that ignores her. The man she came to see, “King”, sees immediately that the work is fake, but he has a something that will enable her to use her talents: a second painter is needed for a mural commissioned by a church in Coventry. In 1818, a woman would never be allowed to proceed, but a young man would, and so is born Charlie Beaumont, who shall not reveal who he really is. The other painter is Finn Rutledge, whom Charlotte thinks is the most beautiful man she has ever seen…
When I chose to read THE LADY IN RED, there was no blurb available, and as I am not especially fond of women passing as young men, I am not sure if I would have chosen to read it, but then again it is Kelly Bowen, who has not failed me in the past, or should I now say, Kelly Bowen who has never failed me. However, I did have a few minor issues with this novella: I would have liked to have known how an aristocrat came to know King, a shady character, and the ways to dispose of forged art. Also, I wondered how two people without any formal training in oil painting could have possibly achieved such proficiency in this specific medium that they would be chosen for such a lofty enterprise. Charlotte is not conventionally pretty; she is too tall, broad-shouldered, but her transformation into young Charlie seemed to have occurred speedily and rather miraculously, still I feel THE LADY IN RED, in spite of these shortcomings, merits 5 stars, and here’s why.
Kelly Bowen creates a sumptuous atmosphere, not in gilded riches but in nuances and subtlety. Few authors are able to write with the special touch that allows me to read “in colour”: THE LADY IN RED is all sepia tones and candlelit glow, highlighted with vibrant bursts of colour. The artistic milieu is beautifully recreated; I could see where Charlie and Finn worked, his reticence at having to share his art with a young pup, and eventually accepting Charlie for “his” talent. And this is where Ms. Bowen shines: Finn and Charlie learn to be friends, have heart to heart talks – and let it be noted that their backstories are complete, believable, and fascinating – all this without any idiocy regarding Charlotte’s gender. In fact, the event leading to Finn’s discovery of Charlie being a woman is absolutely brilliant, and contrary to what usually happens with this sort of trope: it is the turning point of the story, and a twofold marvel.
The romance is so very beautiful, because it is based on art, mutual respect, honest communication, shared passions, and selflessness. The conversations Finn and Charlie/Charlotte – both sides of Charlotte must be included here as both identities are significant in the exchanges – are meaningful, profound, and moving. Kelly Bowen has again wowed me with her scintillating prose, her superb dialogues, dramatic images, her perceptiveness, and the ease with which she expresses her characters’ feelings and emotions, all this splendour concluding with a perfect epilogue.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
When I chose to read THE LADY IN RED, there was no blurb available, and as I am not especially fond of women passing as young men, I am not sure if I would have chosen to read it, but then again it is Kelly Bowen, who has not failed me in the past, or should I now say, Kelly Bowen who has never failed me. However, I did have a few minor issues with this novella: I would have liked to have known how an aristocrat came to know King, a shady character, and the ways to dispose of forged art. Also, I wondered how two people without any formal training in oil painting could have possibly achieved such proficiency in this specific medium that they would be chosen for such a lofty enterprise. Charlotte is not conventionally pretty; she is too tall, broad-shouldered, but her transformation into young Charlie seemed to have occurred speedily and rather miraculously, still I feel THE LADY IN RED, in spite of these shortcomings, merits 5 stars, and here’s why.
Kelly Bowen creates a sumptuous atmosphere, not in gilded riches but in nuances and subtlety. Few authors are able to write with the special touch that allows me to read “in colour”: THE LADY IN RED is all sepia tones and candlelit glow, highlighted with vibrant bursts of colour. The artistic milieu is beautifully recreated; I could see where Charlie and Finn worked, his reticence at having to share his art with a young pup, and eventually accepting Charlie for “his” talent. And this is where Ms. Bowen shines: Finn and Charlie learn to be friends, have heart to heart talks – and let it be noted that their backstories are complete, believable, and fascinating – all this without any idiocy regarding Charlotte’s gender. In fact, the event leading to Finn’s discovery of Charlie being a woman is absolutely brilliant, and contrary to what usually happens with this sort of trope: it is the turning point of the story, and a twofold marvel.
The romance is so very beautiful, because it is based on art, mutual respect, honest communication, shared passions, and selflessness. The conversations Finn and Charlie/Charlotte – both sides of Charlotte must be included here as both identities are significant in the exchanges – are meaningful, profound, and moving. Kelly Bowen has again wowed me with her scintillating prose, her superb dialogues, dramatic images, her perceptiveness, and the ease with which she expresses her characters’ feelings and emotions, all this splendour concluding with a perfect epilogue.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
December 6, 2017
4.5 star
A quick way to summarize this novella would be to say it's the story of two artists falling in love. But with Kelly Bowen, you can always expect more than the usual. She have a way to grab my attention with the way she write and set the scene for her characters. The enigmatic King with the unclear motives, who we met in the series before, have a part to play in this novella. And it all begin when the heroine try to sell a forgery that she painted herself and end up posing as a boy to pursue her dream to paint the mural of St-Michael commissioned for the church. She'll have to work with an other talented artist; Flynn Ruthledge. At first, Flynn is not happy by the presence of the man with the youthful appearance. It's got nothing to do with Charlie. He's bitter about being made a fool by a rich titled woman before and he act prickly because he lost inspiration. But Charlie's passion for their art will make him remember about his own and what is really important about creation. Learning to know each other, Charlie and Flynn will discover the feeling of loneliness is an other thing they have in common. But how will the hero discover the truth and how will he react to it is the question we probably all wonder when beginning this novel. And how will it work in the context of a romance ? I really liked how the author choose to reveal the truth. Flynn won't develop feelings other than frienship for Charlie but he will fall for Charlotte when he learn the truth. But it also means having to wait for more than half the book before there's any romance. It should bother me but like I said, I like Kelly Bowen's writing style, that she always do things a little bit differently and reading the protagonists's journey about following their dreams or rediscovering it was just as great.
Can't wait to read the author's next series coming in 2018 because so far I've never been disappointed by any of her books and can't recommend them enough.
A quick way to summarize this novella would be to say it's the story of two artists falling in love. But with Kelly Bowen, you can always expect more than the usual. She have a way to grab my attention with the way she write and set the scene for her characters. The enigmatic King with the unclear motives, who we met in the series before, have a part to play in this novella. And it all begin when the heroine try to sell a forgery that she painted herself and end up posing as a boy to pursue her dream to paint the mural of St-Michael commissioned for the church. She'll have to work with an other talented artist; Flynn Ruthledge. At first, Flynn is not happy by the presence of the man with the youthful appearance. It's got nothing to do with Charlie. He's bitter about being made a fool by a rich titled woman before and he act prickly because he lost inspiration. But Charlie's passion for their art will make him remember about his own and what is really important about creation. Learning to know each other, Charlie and Flynn will discover the feeling of loneliness is an other thing they have in common. But how will the hero discover the truth and how will he react to it is the question we probably all wonder when beginning this novel. And how will it work in the context of a romance ? I really liked how the author choose to reveal the truth. Flynn won't develop feelings other than frienship for Charlie but he will fall for Charlotte when he learn the truth. But it also means having to wait for more than half the book before there's any romance. It should bother me but like I said, I like Kelly Bowen's writing style, that she always do things a little bit differently and reading the protagonists's journey about following their dreams or rediscovering it was just as great.
Can't wait to read the author's next series coming in 2018 because so far I've never been disappointed by any of her books and can't recommend them enough.
December 9, 2017
3,5 stars! I thought it would be a new series. but it seems like a 3.5. I wish this had been King's story but alas, we only get a glimpse of him at the end and beginning.
I enjoyed our heroine Charlotte for her amazing skills and big heart. She was there for Flynn even he was an ass at the beginning and after when he found out. It's funny that he didn't get mad at her for lying to him about being a woman but he did for being a Lady. This is a short story so once again the romance had to be very fast but it didn't feel too insta. I didn't like though, that he went from feeling fond of Charlie when he thought he was a boy, but to lust when he realized he was a woman.
All in all, I liked it and hope the new series will feature even greater ladies ;)
I enjoyed our heroine Charlotte for her amazing skills and big heart. She was there for Flynn even he was an ass at the beginning and after when he found out. It's funny that he didn't get mad at her for lying to him about being a woman but he did for being a Lady. This is a short story so once again the romance had to be very fast but it didn't feel too insta. I didn't like though, that he went from feeling fond of Charlie when he thought he was a boy, but to lust when he realized he was a woman.
All in all, I liked it and hope the new series will feature even greater ladies ;)
March 10, 2018
3.5 stars or B-
February 26, 2020
This novella sets up the next series nicely. I am really interested to read more from this series.
August 28, 2022
Enjoyable Regency novella about a young woman’s determination to follow her dream.
May 5, 2019
This is the final instalment in the excellent Seasons for Scandal series which neatly ties into Ms. Bowen’s new Devils of Dover series and, despite the constraints of a novella, she succeeds in and creating a deeply emotional story.
I don’t usually comment on covers but this one is extremely misleading because the heroine never wears a red dress and it’s certainly not a Christmas themed story, although the Christmas tree in the background would suggest otherwise.
Ms. Bowen excels in writing strong, determined and smart heroines and Charlotte is no exception. No longer willing to let life pass her by, I admire her determination to pursue her dreams of becoming a recognised artist. Desperate to secure one of two important commissions to paint church murals, but knowing that, as a woman and a lady, normal avenues are closed to her, Charlotte courageously approaches the enigmatic and infamous King. She is aware of his dangerous reputation, but he is not only a connoisseur of fine art, but also a man who can secure anything, for a price – a price she is willing to pay.
There was no white knight thundering to her rescue, ready to sweep her away and make her dreams come true. That was on her. And no matter the cost, it would be worth it, ten times over.
Recognising her exceptional artistic skills, King strikes a bargain with Charlotte and she finds herself at the Haverhall School for Young Ladies. To the outside world, it appears no more than an exclusive finishing school but secretly it runs exclusive summer programmes for those young women who are both willing and are courageous enough to defy convention and…
“To do things denied to them, not by ability or acumen but by gender. Architects. Doctors. Solicitors. Artists.”
So disguised as a young man, Charlie Beaumont, Charlotte sets off to take the first step towards fulfilling her dreams.
Born into poverty, Flynn Rutledge has worked hard to achieve recognition as a talented artist. His ultimate goal is to have his work hanging in the Royal Academy. His late mother had always given him her unconditional love and had always believed in him and this had been her dream for him. The commission is important to him because it will give him access to the people with the means and power to help him achieve his ambitions. But, five years ago, an affair with a noblewoman had ended disastrously, leaving him humiliated, bitter and angry, with a deep distrust of titled women. Worse still, he no longer finds joy or inspiration in his painting.
I like how Ms. Bowen handles the development of the relationship between Flynn and Charlie. Long before Flynn discovers that Charlie is a woman, an honest friendship is forged between them based on their mutual passion for art. Flynn recognises what a gifted artist Charlie is and makes ‘him’ believe in ‘himself’, while Charlie’s words of wisdom, kindness and generosity restore Flynn’s sense of purpose.
…he realized he had found his way back. Righted his ship and recharted his course with the most unlikely of allies.
Even when Flynn discovers that Charlie is really Charlotte (under dramatic circumstances), he isn’t angry because he understands and respects her. Their romance feels like a natural progression of the closeness they shared.
I could understand Flynn’s feelings of anger when he discovers that Charlotte is in fact Lady Charlotte, given his previous experience with a noblewoman and everything he and Charlotte had shared.
Every whispered promise, every shared confidence, every piece of what he had believed to be real had been built on a foundation of lies. He had been played the fool. Again.
Charlotte tries hard to explain but it falls on death ears and the special gesture she makes to prove her love for Flynn leads to such a moving scene and a well-deserved Happy Ever After.
“I love you. All of you. Charlotte, Charlie, Lady Charlotte. Whatever you wish to call yourself, it matters not to me.”
“Yours,” she whispered. “I want to call myself yours"
The artistic setting forms a unique backdrop to the story and I am intrigued to learn more about the Haverhall School for Young Ladies, which is the focus of the Devils of Dover series. There are some interesting secondary characters including Clara Hayward, headmistress of the school, and her sister Rose, and the mysterious King, who appeared in the Season for Scandal series. I can’t wait for his book to see him brought to his knees by love!
MY VERDICT: This novella has everything wrapped up in a small package – emotive and evocative writing, an innovative story, intelligent dialogue, and richly drawn characters. Highly recommended.
Season for Scandal series (click on the book covers for more details):
This review was first posted on the Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
I don’t usually comment on covers but this one is extremely misleading because the heroine never wears a red dress and it’s certainly not a Christmas themed story, although the Christmas tree in the background would suggest otherwise.
Ms. Bowen excels in writing strong, determined and smart heroines and Charlotte is no exception. No longer willing to let life pass her by, I admire her determination to pursue her dreams of becoming a recognised artist. Desperate to secure one of two important commissions to paint church murals, but knowing that, as a woman and a lady, normal avenues are closed to her, Charlotte courageously approaches the enigmatic and infamous King. She is aware of his dangerous reputation, but he is not only a connoisseur of fine art, but also a man who can secure anything, for a price – a price she is willing to pay.
There was no white knight thundering to her rescue, ready to sweep her away and make her dreams come true. That was on her. And no matter the cost, it would be worth it, ten times over.
Recognising her exceptional artistic skills, King strikes a bargain with Charlotte and she finds herself at the Haverhall School for Young Ladies. To the outside world, it appears no more than an exclusive finishing school but secretly it runs exclusive summer programmes for those young women who are both willing and are courageous enough to defy convention and…
“To do things denied to them, not by ability or acumen but by gender. Architects. Doctors. Solicitors. Artists.”
So disguised as a young man, Charlie Beaumont, Charlotte sets off to take the first step towards fulfilling her dreams.
Born into poverty, Flynn Rutledge has worked hard to achieve recognition as a talented artist. His ultimate goal is to have his work hanging in the Royal Academy. His late mother had always given him her unconditional love and had always believed in him and this had been her dream for him. The commission is important to him because it will give him access to the people with the means and power to help him achieve his ambitions. But, five years ago, an affair with a noblewoman had ended disastrously, leaving him humiliated, bitter and angry, with a deep distrust of titled women. Worse still, he no longer finds joy or inspiration in his painting.
I like how Ms. Bowen handles the development of the relationship between Flynn and Charlie. Long before Flynn discovers that Charlie is a woman, an honest friendship is forged between them based on their mutual passion for art. Flynn recognises what a gifted artist Charlie is and makes ‘him’ believe in ‘himself’, while Charlie’s words of wisdom, kindness and generosity restore Flynn’s sense of purpose.
…he realized he had found his way back. Righted his ship and recharted his course with the most unlikely of allies.
Even when Flynn discovers that Charlie is really Charlotte (under dramatic circumstances), he isn’t angry because he understands and respects her. Their romance feels like a natural progression of the closeness they shared.
I could understand Flynn’s feelings of anger when he discovers that Charlotte is in fact Lady Charlotte, given his previous experience with a noblewoman and everything he and Charlotte had shared.
Every whispered promise, every shared confidence, every piece of what he had believed to be real had been built on a foundation of lies. He had been played the fool. Again.
Charlotte tries hard to explain but it falls on death ears and the special gesture she makes to prove her love for Flynn leads to such a moving scene and a well-deserved Happy Ever After.
“I love you. All of you. Charlotte, Charlie, Lady Charlotte. Whatever you wish to call yourself, it matters not to me.”
“Yours,” she whispered. “I want to call myself yours"
The artistic setting forms a unique backdrop to the story and I am intrigued to learn more about the Haverhall School for Young Ladies, which is the focus of the Devils of Dover series. There are some interesting secondary characters including Clara Hayward, headmistress of the school, and her sister Rose, and the mysterious King, who appeared in the Season for Scandal series. I can’t wait for his book to see him brought to his knees by love!
MY VERDICT: This novella has everything wrapped up in a small package – emotive and evocative writing, an innovative story, intelligent dialogue, and richly drawn characters. Highly recommended.
Season for Scandal series (click on the book covers for more details):
This review was first posted on the Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
December 6, 2017
I was a little bit, aka a lot, deceived by the cover into thinking I had gotten my hands on a historical romance Christmas book. Now the former part of that is correct, however the latter, the 'Christmas' part is not. Ignore the cheerfully lit Christmas tree in the background it's telling porkies. But, in retrospect I can't be too angry about it, I enjoyed the book too much. It's all about wallflower Lady Charlotte Beaumont is used to being ignored by everyone, servants and family alike,so has used this to her advantage by becoming an exceptional artist. Only now she wants to break out of the restrictions placed upon her and use this skill. Enlisting the help of a very dangerous man, she manages to find a position...as Mr Charlie Beaumont a young aspiring artist. What could go wrong? Apart from an attractive fellow artist Flynn Rutledge finding out her secret identity...Although, as I have pointed out already, this isn't a Christmas book, it does have all the hallmarks of an uplifting Christmas tale. We have a heroine who striving to improve herself and live her dreams; we have a grumpy hero coming to terms with a sordid past all bound together with the power of their friendship, and then eventual romance, to make each character become more than they could have alone. It's heart warming stuff.
What I liked most about this novella, is that Bowen managed to pack such a powerful romance in such a small package. Charlotte and Flynn were friends first and had formed a mutual liking and respect for one another without the complication of a romantic relationship. This solid foundation led a strong connection between them both when the truth was eventually revealed.
This is a great novella and can be read as a standalone, I haven't read previous books in this series but I didn't need to, and is definitely worth a look at this winter season.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
December 5, 2017
This was wonderful. I enjoyed how Charlotte goes against society so she can prove herself but also show us that women are worth more than just being a wife.
Charlotte is part of the aristocracy. Her family is disappointed by her and how she does conform to what society says her role is. She has talent and wants those around to see it. So to prove herself she meets a deal with what some would call the devil. Doing this brings her to Flynn. Doing this gains her respect and love. It also gets her to see where she wants to be and gains her strength and confidence.
Flynn is angry at aristocracy and life in general. It is Charlotte as Charlie that helps him let go but also see life differently. Charlotte has him expand his views but also gains his respect. He gets his passion back. Along the way he also gets himself back. He is reminded as to what is important and what isn’t. This is Charlotte’s doing. when he learns the truth of Charlie/Charlotte he gives Charlotte the respect she deserves and doesn’t look down on her. He believes in her and her talent.
these two are fun to watch. they help each other find their footing and way. They help each other see who they are as individuals but also together. Each one gains respect and loyalty from the other. They find love and passion with each other. Both grow and become who they are meant to be. Both gain the strength to stand up for themselves and what they want as well.
The romance is a slow burn and the friendship and respect is there from the beginning after Flynn gets less prickly. The story is fast paced, entertaining and shows us friendship, love and respect. It shows us how our gender shouldn’t matter only our talent and views. Flynn shows this to Charlotte and gains more in the process. He gains love and someone to trust and spend his life with in this truly sweet and entertaining book.
Charlotte is part of the aristocracy. Her family is disappointed by her and how she does conform to what society says her role is. She has talent and wants those around to see it. So to prove herself she meets a deal with what some would call the devil. Doing this brings her to Flynn. Doing this gains her respect and love. It also gets her to see where she wants to be and gains her strength and confidence.
Flynn is angry at aristocracy and life in general. It is Charlotte as Charlie that helps him let go but also see life differently. Charlotte has him expand his views but also gains his respect. He gets his passion back. Along the way he also gets himself back. He is reminded as to what is important and what isn’t. This is Charlotte’s doing. when he learns the truth of Charlie/Charlotte he gives Charlotte the respect she deserves and doesn’t look down on her. He believes in her and her talent.
these two are fun to watch. they help each other find their footing and way. They help each other see who they are as individuals but also together. Each one gains respect and loyalty from the other. They find love and passion with each other. Both grow and become who they are meant to be. Both gain the strength to stand up for themselves and what they want as well.
The romance is a slow burn and the friendship and respect is there from the beginning after Flynn gets less prickly. The story is fast paced, entertaining and shows us friendship, love and respect. It shows us how our gender shouldn’t matter only our talent and views. Flynn shows this to Charlotte and gains more in the process. He gains love and someone to trust and spend his life with in this truly sweet and entertaining book.
February 27, 2018
An excellent prequel to A Duke In The Night
My only complaint, is that I so wish this was longer! There is something magical in this new-to-me author's voice, which captured my attention with her depth straight away.
This is my first book read from Kelly Bowen. A wise friend informed me this could be read as a stand alone, as a prequel to her latest release A Duke In The Night, the start of a new series, a spin-off to A Season For Scandal. As a new reader to Kelly Bowen, I delighted in The Lady In Red, never felt as though I may be missing past information, and look very forward to reading Duke son The Night next. I also look forward to going back to explore earlier books.
This is a fresh take on the woman disguised as a man trope. Loved it! I don't want to give anything away, other than I adored Bowen's writing in this, I got lost in the story. Being only 90 pages though, it may have felt a little rushed. But, it's great as a quick read. There is enough of a slow build for us to connect with these characters, to want them to get together. To need them to get together. And when they did, (fans self) WOW this packed some heat!
A great read, I highly recommend!
My only complaint, is that I so wish this was longer! There is something magical in this new-to-me author's voice, which captured my attention with her depth straight away.
This is my first book read from Kelly Bowen. A wise friend informed me this could be read as a stand alone, as a prequel to her latest release A Duke In The Night, the start of a new series, a spin-off to A Season For Scandal. As a new reader to Kelly Bowen, I delighted in The Lady In Red, never felt as though I may be missing past information, and look very forward to reading Duke son The Night next. I also look forward to going back to explore earlier books.
This is a fresh take on the woman disguised as a man trope. Loved it! I don't want to give anything away, other than I adored Bowen's writing in this, I got lost in the story. Being only 90 pages though, it may have felt a little rushed. But, it's great as a quick read. There is enough of a slow build for us to connect with these characters, to want them to get together. To need them to get together. And when they did, (fans self) WOW this packed some heat!
A great read, I highly recommend!
December 17, 2017
Looking at Ms Bowen's other books, they are all five stars for me, save one. AHA! The other one is also a novella. Shorter than this one, if I recollect correctly.
I enjoyed this novella. From the start I could see where two potential points of conflict were, but due to the length of the story, I felt there really wasn't time enough to explore the conflicts in more detail as I would've preferred and to flesh the characters out a bit more.
Having a guest appearance by King is always a good thing, too. :)
I enjoyed this novella. From the start I could see where two potential points of conflict were, but due to the length of the story, I felt there really wasn't time enough to explore the conflicts in more detail as I would've preferred and to flesh the characters out a bit more.
Having a guest appearance by King is always a good thing, too. :)
April 5, 2022
More like 3.5 stars. I haven't read any of the other books from this series and I believe this is my first Kelly Bowen book. I do not think the title/cover match with the story of this novella.
Overall, I thought the characters were interesting (two artists falling in love!) and that their story didn't feel rushed or incomplete. That is usually hard to do in a novella format.
I will definitely be picking up more from this author in the future.
Overall, I thought the characters were interesting (two artists falling in love!) and that their story didn't feel rushed or incomplete. That is usually hard to do in a novella format.
I will definitely be picking up more from this author in the future.
January 3, 2018
Cute story. I liked Charlotte/Charlie and Flynn, although Flynn was a bit of an angry ass in the beginning. Charlie couldn’t show any sympathy or say anything too girlie since she was dressed as a man, in order to be Flynn’s apprentice. The two were doing a large painting for a church and Charlotte had to be a man in order to get the position.
It was a story about lies and deception that worked out just fine for Charlotte and Flynn.
There wasn’t any swearing in this but there was explicit sex.
December 31, 2017
I really liked this novella, however, if cross-dressing ladies isn't your thing this one's probably not for you.
My one complaint: what's with this cover? It has absolutely nothing to do with the story.
My one complaint: what's with this cover? It has absolutely nothing to do with the story.
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