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Colette Trilogy #1
A Silent Ocean Away: Colette's Dominion
Charmaine Ryan knows only poverty and pain growing up. In the wake of a horrifying tragedy, she seeks a new life, and fateleads her into the private world of the wealthy Duvoisin clan....
373 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 30, 2015
I can't. It's just too painful.
The plot itself isn't terrible (albeit on the slow side), but the writing -- NO. Descriptions are bland, conversation is stilted, scenes wander aimlessly with a never-ending parade of 'As you know, Bob' infodumps, & the dialogue tags are equivalent to cruel & unusual punishment with an icepick. Each ridiculously overdone and/or unnecessary string of adverb flogging made me twitch. There's a reason said has been beloved for centuries of fiction, but the author(s) simply refused to use it except in the most dire circumstances. Yeah, I know -- occasionally one might need to use cried or shouted or some such basic indicator. But the keyword is occasionally. Put down the thesaurus & walk away. There's no excuse for the vocal context of EVERY SINGLE LINE being hammered into the reader's skull with ever-more-creative substitutions to showcase florid prose. Expostulated, queried, cajoled, refuted, rejoined, & smiled all made multiple appearances...and that's just the tip of the iceberg. (Yeah, smiled. *headdesk* PSA to authors everywhere: STOP USING IT THAT WAY.) Anyway, I expect this sort of unpolished overwriting in Harlequin Presents -- but not in trade paperback trilogies from major publishers. For shame, editors.
Don't believe me? Fair enough. Draw your own conclusions, as I've transcribed some samples. (I've also added Han Solo to spice up the visuals. You're welcome. :P)
[pg 41-42] "Quite a fine specimen of a man he is, but a rogue, if you know what I mean, with an eye for the ladies. They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Following in his father's footsteps--"
"Caroline!" Harold objected again, appalled by her audacity.
"Well, it's true!" she returned in kind, annoyed that her husband dared to quash the bit of gossip that begged telling. "Imagine, remaining a widower for all these years--sampling his fill--only to up and marry a girl young enough to be his daughter! And to think that Colette--"
"Caroline!" Harold exploded. "Hold your tongue!"
"But Harold!" the virago mewled, shaken by his uncharacteristic outrage.
His ire cooled as swiftly as it had spiked, and he pulled at his shirt collar in evident distress. "I'm sorry," he apologized lamely. "But my wife shouldn't be spreading rumors."
Caroline clicked her tongue, muttering, "They're not rumors, they're facts."
[pg 50-51] Charmaine smiled as a pair of flamingos walked along the water's edge, but seeing the young women, turned direction and disappeared into the shaded wood.
"Now," Gwendolyn breathed, "where would you like to go next?"
"I don't know," Charmaine answered, looking up at the girl who had stood to brush away the moss and sand that clung to her skirts.
"It's your choice," Gwendolyn continued. "We're close enough to walk to the Duvoisin mansion. It's probably only a half-hour away from here. Of course, we won't be allowed on the grounds. It's fenced off. But you could get a good look at where you'll be working."
"Where I'll be working?" Charmaine queried with raised brow. "I haven't even gone to the interview yet, Gwendolyn. You sound so sure I'll get the governess's position."
"You will. Your name alone guarantees it."
Charmaine frowned bemusedly. "What do you mean?"
"Charmaine...Charmantes...It's destiny, don't you think? How many other girls have a name so similar? It's as if the island were calling you home."
Charmaine shook her head with a laugh. "I hope you are right, because I think I will enjoy living here, especially with you as a friend."
[pg 159] "In short, we have to wait on our post and our supplies."
"Why?" Charmaine asked.
"John loves to interfere."
"That is not true," Colette objected.
"Isn't it?" Paul demanded, full-voiced, his temper unleashed.
Charmaine sat stunned. He had never spoken a harsh word to Colette.
Colette responded calmly. "If John changed the routes, he had good reason."
"Why are you always defending him?" he growled, his query strikingly reminiscent of Frederic's remark on the twins' birthday.
"I'm not defending him," she argued diplomatically. "I'm merely stating a fact. John will inherit his father's fortune someday. Why would he jeopardize it by setting up shipping routes that would undermine Duvoisin enterprises?"
Paul was chafed by her logic. "Clearly you are blind to his maneuverings. Therefore, there is no point in discussing it."
"Paul--you and John were close once," she rejoined, unaffected by the fury in his eyes. "Why are you allowing money to come between you now?"
[pg 365-66] Paul closed his eyes to the critical blunder, for capturing her queen would place her king in checkmate. Ignoring the decisive move, he took hold of his bishop. But John swiftly brushed his hand aside. "What sort of game is this, Paulie?" he needled, grabbing his brother's black queen and sweeping the white queen off the board. "That's checkmate."
Charmaine's eyes flew from John's taunting visage back to the chessboard. She was indeed in checkmate.
"You couldn't have missed that move!" John remarked with relish. "You were always better at this game than I. Or were you just allowing Miss Ryan a small victory before closing in for the kill?"
"That's it!" Paul snarled, his ire doubly stoked by the twins' chorus of laughter. "You've been at me all night, pressing my patience!"
"Have I now?"
"You know damn well you have!" Paul barked, coming out of his chair and standing toe to toe with his brother.
"Watch your language!" John admonished jovially, unperturbed. "There are ladies present, and we must at least act decently."
"What would you know about decency?"
"I don't know, Paul, why don't you--Mr. Epitome of Decency--tell me?"
Nope, not happening. Sorry.
The plot itself isn't terrible (albeit on the slow side), but the writing -- NO. Descriptions are bland, conversation is stilted, scenes wander aimlessly with a never-ending parade of 'As you know, Bob' infodumps, & the dialogue tags are equivalent to cruel & unusual punishment with an icepick. Each ridiculously overdone and/or unnecessary string of adverb flogging made me twitch. There's a reason said has been beloved for centuries of fiction, but the author(s) simply refused to use it except in the most dire circumstances. Yeah, I know -- occasionally one might need to use cried or shouted or some such basic indicator. But the keyword is occasionally. Put down the thesaurus & walk away. There's no excuse for the vocal context of EVERY SINGLE LINE being hammered into the reader's skull with ever-more-creative substitutions to showcase florid prose. Expostulated, queried, cajoled, refuted, rejoined, & smiled all made multiple appearances...and that's just the tip of the iceberg. (Yeah, smiled. *headdesk* PSA to authors everywhere: STOP USING IT THAT WAY.) Anyway, I expect this sort of unpolished overwriting in Harlequin Presents -- but not in trade paperback trilogies from major publishers. For shame, editors.
Don't believe me? Fair enough. Draw your own conclusions, as I've transcribed some samples. (I've also added Han Solo to spice up the visuals. You're welcome. :P)
[pg 41-42] "Quite a fine specimen of a man he is, but a rogue, if you know what I mean, with an eye for the ladies. They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Following in his father's footsteps--"
"Caroline!" Harold objected again, appalled by her audacity.
"Well, it's true!" she returned in kind, annoyed that her husband dared to quash the bit of gossip that begged telling. "Imagine, remaining a widower for all these years--sampling his fill--only to up and marry a girl young enough to be his daughter! And to think that Colette--"
"Caroline!" Harold exploded. "Hold your tongue!"
"But Harold!" the virago mewled, shaken by his uncharacteristic outrage.
His ire cooled as swiftly as it had spiked, and he pulled at his shirt collar in evident distress. "I'm sorry," he apologized lamely. "But my wife shouldn't be spreading rumors."
Caroline clicked her tongue, muttering, "They're not rumors, they're facts."
[pg 50-51] Charmaine smiled as a pair of flamingos walked along the water's edge, but seeing the young women, turned direction and disappeared into the shaded wood.
"Now," Gwendolyn breathed, "where would you like to go next?"
"I don't know," Charmaine answered, looking up at the girl who had stood to brush away the moss and sand that clung to her skirts.
"It's your choice," Gwendolyn continued. "We're close enough to walk to the Duvoisin mansion. It's probably only a half-hour away from here. Of course, we won't be allowed on the grounds. It's fenced off. But you could get a good look at where you'll be working."
"Where I'll be working?" Charmaine queried with raised brow. "I haven't even gone to the interview yet, Gwendolyn. You sound so sure I'll get the governess's position."
"You will. Your name alone guarantees it."
Charmaine frowned bemusedly. "What do you mean?"
"Charmaine...Charmantes...It's destiny, don't you think? How many other girls have a name so similar? It's as if the island were calling you home."
Charmaine shook her head with a laugh. "I hope you are right, because I think I will enjoy living here, especially with you as a friend."
[pg 159] "In short, we have to wait on our post and our supplies."
"Why?" Charmaine asked.
"John loves to interfere."
"That is not true," Colette objected.
"Isn't it?" Paul demanded, full-voiced, his temper unleashed.
Charmaine sat stunned. He had never spoken a harsh word to Colette.
Colette responded calmly. "If John changed the routes, he had good reason."
"Why are you always defending him?" he growled, his query strikingly reminiscent of Frederic's remark on the twins' birthday.
"I'm not defending him," she argued diplomatically. "I'm merely stating a fact. John will inherit his father's fortune someday. Why would he jeopardize it by setting up shipping routes that would undermine Duvoisin enterprises?"
Paul was chafed by her logic. "Clearly you are blind to his maneuverings. Therefore, there is no point in discussing it."
"Paul--you and John were close once," she rejoined, unaffected by the fury in his eyes. "Why are you allowing money to come between you now?"
[pg 365-66] Paul closed his eyes to the critical blunder, for capturing her queen would place her king in checkmate. Ignoring the decisive move, he took hold of his bishop. But John swiftly brushed his hand aside. "What sort of game is this, Paulie?" he needled, grabbing his brother's black queen and sweeping the white queen off the board. "That's checkmate."
Charmaine's eyes flew from John's taunting visage back to the chessboard. She was indeed in checkmate.
"You couldn't have missed that move!" John remarked with relish. "You were always better at this game than I. Or were you just allowing Miss Ryan a small victory before closing in for the kill?"
"That's it!" Paul snarled, his ire doubly stoked by the twins' chorus of laughter. "You've been at me all night, pressing my patience!"
"Have I now?"
"You know damn well you have!" Paul barked, coming out of his chair and standing toe to toe with his brother.
"Watch your language!" John admonished jovially, unperturbed. "There are ladies present, and we must at least act decently."
"What would you know about decency?"
"I don't know, Paul, why don't you--Mr. Epitome of Decency--tell me?"
Nope, not happening. Sorry.
January 31, 2011
I highly recommended this trilogy (A Silent Ocean Away is the first of three) for lovers of Historical Romances.
It has all the elements to sweep you away: one brother, Paul, is a handsome, lusty rogue, and the other brother, John Duvoisin is a tormented, snarky anti-hero. (I have a big soft spot for the tormented, snarky, anti-hero types which might be why I gave this 5 stars. Hmmm.) Torn between the two is the innocent governess, Charmaine Ryan. The Duvoisin family's past of love, hatred, and betrayal; the strange twists of fate; plus figuring out which one this orphaned heroine will or should choose will keep the pages turning. Sprinkled with humor and some tear-jerker moments, I give *4 stars* for the whole trilogy.
And be sure to have the second book "Decision and Destiny" ready at your fingertips. These novels are not standalone reads but have irresolute endings and should be read, ideally, one after the other. It had been originally published as one complete book. I found the Colette Trilogy a nice surprise and a very good first effort by the Gantt sisters.
It has all the elements to sweep you away: one brother, Paul, is a handsome, lusty rogue, and the other brother, John Duvoisin is a tormented, snarky anti-hero. (I have a big soft spot for the tormented, snarky, anti-hero types which might be why I gave this 5 stars. Hmmm.) Torn between the two is the innocent governess, Charmaine Ryan. The Duvoisin family's past of love, hatred, and betrayal; the strange twists of fate; plus figuring out which one this orphaned heroine will or should choose will keep the pages turning. Sprinkled with humor and some tear-jerker moments, I give *4 stars* for the whole trilogy.
And be sure to have the second book "Decision and Destiny" ready at your fingertips. These novels are not standalone reads but have irresolute endings and should be read, ideally, one after the other. It had been originally published as one complete book. I found the Colette Trilogy a nice surprise and a very good first effort by the Gantt sisters.
August 4, 2009
(3.5)
Charmaine Ryan takes employment as a governess to the three youngest children of Frederic Duvoisin on his private Island in the West Indies. Charmaine bonds quickly with the children, as well as their mother Collette, Frederic's second and much younger wife. The innocent Charmaine feels something entirely different for Frederic's illegitimate son Paul, who has quite a reputation as a ladies man but does he truly care for her or is she just another conquest? Of course the Duvoisin family has plenty of deep dark secrets - what was the cause of the argument between Frederic and his legitimate son John that lead to Fredric's stroke? What is the cause of the enmity between the two elder sons? Why does John seem hell-bent on stymieing the goods shipments to the Island? Is there something sinister at work behind Collette's weakening health?
Inquiring minds want to know, but I am not telling - read it for yourself. Despite a bit of a rocky start that might be improved with some serious editing (I understand that the book was originally self-published), Charmaine's story was compelling enough to keep me turning the pages wanting to know what was going to happen next. This is the first in a trilogy; the next in the series is Decision and Destiny: Colette's Legacy which I just started. The last book, Forever Waiting: Colette's Appeal, is due out in November '09. These books might be a bit too slow paced for some readers as the author(s) cover a great deal of the day-to-day activities of the family along with Charmaine's interaction with the children, but I enjoyed it a great deal, especially the Island setting. 3.5/5 stars rounded up to 4.
Charmaine Ryan takes employment as a governess to the three youngest children of Frederic Duvoisin on his private Island in the West Indies. Charmaine bonds quickly with the children, as well as their mother Collette, Frederic's second and much younger wife. The innocent Charmaine feels something entirely different for Frederic's illegitimate son Paul, who has quite a reputation as a ladies man but does he truly care for her or is she just another conquest? Of course the Duvoisin family has plenty of deep dark secrets - what was the cause of the argument between Frederic and his legitimate son John that lead to Fredric's stroke? What is the cause of the enmity between the two elder sons? Why does John seem hell-bent on stymieing the goods shipments to the Island? Is there something sinister at work behind Collette's weakening health?
Inquiring minds want to know, but I am not telling - read it for yourself. Despite a bit of a rocky start that might be improved with some serious editing (I understand that the book was originally self-published), Charmaine's story was compelling enough to keep me turning the pages wanting to know what was going to happen next. This is the first in a trilogy; the next in the series is Decision and Destiny: Colette's Legacy which I just started. The last book, Forever Waiting: Colette's Appeal, is due out in November '09. These books might be a bit too slow paced for some readers as the author(s) cover a great deal of the day-to-day activities of the family along with Charmaine's interaction with the children, but I enjoyed it a great deal, especially the Island setting. 3.5/5 stars rounded up to 4.
March 29, 2021
I realize this book is the first in a trilogy, so much remains to be resolved in the story and yet I am certain I will not continue the tale. I was very frustrated by this book - the basics of the plot are good, but I disliked nearly every character and not because they were bad people, but because they felt two dimensional and flimsy. The potential love interest of Charmaine is possibly the most interesting and likable character, and yet he seems prone to some incredibly creepy thoughts about what he'd like to do the woman he's interested in. The portrayal of several female characters annoyed me from the start: this is a novel with a very narrow view of how a "good" woman can be and the "bad" women aren't even provided motivations for their behavior. I'm not certain how I made it to the end of this one, but I am happy to put down this book and move on to something else.
February 17, 2009
"A Silent Ocean Away" an absorbing read, written by sisters Debra and Valerie Gantt (hence DeVa). The writing doesn’t convey any impression of design by committee, except perhaps in the depth of detail given to peripheral characters, though, of course, I may be totally mistaking who’s peripheral, since the book is part one of a trilogy.
The tale is set on an exotic island in the 19th century. DeVa make their depiction of locale and time very enticing and convincing. I loved the simple touches, like a new Jane Austen novel being read, and the complex creation of a complete society, separate from but closely linked by trade to the rest of the world. I soon grew attached to the characters too, and appreciated the deft descriptions that made it easy to tell who was who as people vanished and reappeared.
The subtitle, "Colette’s Dominion," left me waiting for a Colette while following the tribulations of Charmaine through the early chapters. The writers do an excellent job of throwing both character and reader into the deep end of the pool, stripping family, friends and home away, till the landing on Charmante, where Charmaine becomes governess to Colette’s three children.
The ocean of the title seemed to represent Charmaine’s anchorless existence at the start, and then the distance travelled to the island. But soon it came to symbolize the oceans of silence between secrets, each character revealing feelings to the reader that were never voiced to those who needed to hear them. Mysteries abound in this book, and by the end they are mostly unresolved. Indeed, that would be my biggest complaint, that the only “resolved” story-line seemed the least interesting when I suddenly found I’d turned the final page; I wish the trilogy had been published as a single volume.
The children, with their delightful foibles and wonderfully natural tricks, are growing now. The brothers, almost uncles, are at each others’ throats. The father rules and vanishes with perplexing twists and turns. And the authors’ insights at the back of the book lead to a chapter from Colette’s Legacy that at least convinces me there really will be more.
More than just a romance, this is a complicated, absorbing tale, marred only by its incompleteness. I’d certainly recommend it, as long as you don’t mind waiting in a roiling ocean as the waves turn to storm till the next book comes out.
The tale is set on an exotic island in the 19th century. DeVa make their depiction of locale and time very enticing and convincing. I loved the simple touches, like a new Jane Austen novel being read, and the complex creation of a complete society, separate from but closely linked by trade to the rest of the world. I soon grew attached to the characters too, and appreciated the deft descriptions that made it easy to tell who was who as people vanished and reappeared.
The subtitle, "Colette’s Dominion," left me waiting for a Colette while following the tribulations of Charmaine through the early chapters. The writers do an excellent job of throwing both character and reader into the deep end of the pool, stripping family, friends and home away, till the landing on Charmante, where Charmaine becomes governess to Colette’s three children.
The ocean of the title seemed to represent Charmaine’s anchorless existence at the start, and then the distance travelled to the island. But soon it came to symbolize the oceans of silence between secrets, each character revealing feelings to the reader that were never voiced to those who needed to hear them. Mysteries abound in this book, and by the end they are mostly unresolved. Indeed, that would be my biggest complaint, that the only “resolved” story-line seemed the least interesting when I suddenly found I’d turned the final page; I wish the trilogy had been published as a single volume.
The children, with their delightful foibles and wonderfully natural tricks, are growing now. The brothers, almost uncles, are at each others’ throats. The father rules and vanishes with perplexing twists and turns. And the authors’ insights at the back of the book lead to a chapter from Colette’s Legacy that at least convinces me there really will be more.
More than just a romance, this is a complicated, absorbing tale, marred only by its incompleteness. I’d certainly recommend it, as long as you don’t mind waiting in a roiling ocean as the waves turn to storm till the next book comes out.
March 14, 2015
This book is a hot mess. Part soap opera, part brilliant, but mostly one big mess. The writing is terrible. Just terrible. Characters are...charactery. Dialogue is stiff and actions/motivation baffling. I want to find out what happened in the second and third books (kind of), but I can't read any more of the writing--especially in light of the million and a half other things I have waiting for me written by authors who've attempted to learn something about craft.
June 17, 2016
What's not to love about this book? Exotic tropical island, two gorgeous brothers, and romance. It's also very well written.
July 7, 2021
Raised in an abusive home, Charmaine Ryan is only able to escape by the goodness of the family she works for. And when it is necessary for her to leave Virginia, they arrange for her to become a nanny for the wealthy Duvoisin family, where she gets embroiled in the family intrigue, without even knowing the history or pitfalls of their history.
I liked the story, and it was intriguing to learn more about an island plantation, but that said, the story just dragged. It took forever to read, because I felt no pull by the writing. And finally, right at the end when things are picking up, it ended so abruptly that it felt like someone ripped the last chapters right out of the book. I was so annoyed that I am not even planning on reading any more of the series. Which, by the way, I had no idea that it was, as nothing marked it as such. It felt like the author wrote a very long book, and then chopped it into pieces. Lame and completely disappointing.
I liked the story, and it was intriguing to learn more about an island plantation, but that said, the story just dragged. It took forever to read, because I felt no pull by the writing. And finally, right at the end when things are picking up, it ended so abruptly that it felt like someone ripped the last chapters right out of the book. I was so annoyed that I am not even planning on reading any more of the series. Which, by the way, I had no idea that it was, as nothing marked it as such. It felt like the author wrote a very long book, and then chopped it into pieces. Lame and completely disappointing.
October 27, 2022
This trilogy was recommended to me by my mom and grandma. I was excited to read it because they both said that they loved it. Honestly though it just wasn’t as good as they said. Don’t get me wrong though because I did enjoy it a lot. I feel like I either loved or hated the characters and I am now sucked into reading the second and third books. This book is really really well written which already earns it brownie points but honestly the story is good too. It’s kind of based around Charmaine (the new governess) finding out all of this family’s secrets and scandals. She comes from a rocky background herself and learns the story of the Duvoisins (spelling?) through everyone in the house. I definitely recommend this book to people who want a good read… but there isn’t any action so definitely don’t read this if you need that in your books.
October 6, 2024
Got this copy at a thrift store. I didn't realize it was a trilogy until I finished reading it. The ending made no sense to me until I read that there were two more books. Enjoyed reading it, but not sure I'll look for the next book.
July 7, 2022
I didn’t realize how long it’s been since I’ve read a historical fiction that was 1) for grownups, 2) not about history-textbook Main Events, and 3) of a wider scope than a romance. So this was really nice. Fun soap opera-esque feel to it with a lot of great characters and a rich setting.
May 30, 2023
Ganz ok
December 3, 2024
I enjoyed it
June 29, 2025
not sure what the point of this book is. not going to bother with the other 2 to figure it out
May 24, 2009
Part “Gone with the Wind,” part Jane Austen drama, “A Silent Ocean Away” has the range of an epic and the feel of a period novel of manners created many years ago. This historical novel, set in the early 1800s, begins with a long list of characters who will populate the book, as well as two others (to come) in this trilogy of the Duvoisin family. The heroine of the story is Charmaine Ryan, the family’s governess, who comes into the maelstrom of this family seeking to find a new life for herself after escaping her own difficult childhood..
Can she find a place for herself in the tropical island setting? She has arrived from Richmond, Virginia, wary of her own capabilities and haunted by the actions of her father. Her spirit and determination will surely be tested by this quarrelsome family. Everyone is the Duvoisin family seems to be battling their own inner demons, struggling for a place, and in that sense, Charmaine too, fits easily into this family drama.
There are struggles between father and son, with the patriarch of the family, Frederic, secluded away in his waning years. There are struggles between brothers Paul and John, both for inheritance and the affection of their father. There is a new generation of Duvoisins, born to Frederic and his second wife Colette, who the new governess must love and guide as the family falls apart. And there are the romantic struggles that engulf both the senior and younger Duvoisins.
There’s plenty of meddling and power struggles in this wealthy clan, not only inside the family but also in their business dealings. In addition to Caribbean land and crops, they own a shipping business that operates out of Virginia. Yet it is the internal struggles and secrets of the family members that keep the storyline afloat, and keep readers turning the pages.
For those who enjoy historical novels, stories with a long range and lots of character development, “A Silent Ocean Away” is sure to please. The biggest challenge will be awaiting the next volume’s appearance so see where the story takes its readers, although there is some foreshadowing toward the end of this volume, as well as a sample chapter from the next book, “Decision and Destiny.”
Can she find a place for herself in the tropical island setting? She has arrived from Richmond, Virginia, wary of her own capabilities and haunted by the actions of her father. Her spirit and determination will surely be tested by this quarrelsome family. Everyone is the Duvoisin family seems to be battling their own inner demons, struggling for a place, and in that sense, Charmaine too, fits easily into this family drama.
There are struggles between father and son, with the patriarch of the family, Frederic, secluded away in his waning years. There are struggles between brothers Paul and John, both for inheritance and the affection of their father. There is a new generation of Duvoisins, born to Frederic and his second wife Colette, who the new governess must love and guide as the family falls apart. And there are the romantic struggles that engulf both the senior and younger Duvoisins.
There’s plenty of meddling and power struggles in this wealthy clan, not only inside the family but also in their business dealings. In addition to Caribbean land and crops, they own a shipping business that operates out of Virginia. Yet it is the internal struggles and secrets of the family members that keep the storyline afloat, and keep readers turning the pages.
For those who enjoy historical novels, stories with a long range and lots of character development, “A Silent Ocean Away” is sure to please. The biggest challenge will be awaiting the next volume’s appearance so see where the story takes its readers, although there is some foreshadowing toward the end of this volume, as well as a sample chapter from the next book, “Decision and Destiny.”
January 17, 2009
A Silent Ocean Away
By DeVa Gantt
Although this is an historical romance, it is not a bodice-ripper. Set in Richmond, Virginia, in 1837, it is a charming, intriguing, family saga with endearing characters. Heroine, Charmaine Ryan, is immediately likable and admired for her strength and perseverance. Some characters are not so endearing, however.
Eighteen-year-old Charmaine escapes from her life of poverty and fear when she is hired as a companion by a kind, prosperous Richmond couple, who love and nurture her. Eventually, they all travel to the tropical island of Les Charmantes, where Charmaine takes the post of governess to the young children of wealthy landowners, Frederic and Colette Duvoisin.
The children are delightful. Charmaine quickly befriends Colette Duvoisin, who is lonely and much younger than her husband. Colette earns the reader’s sympathy and admiration as her personal, emotional pain and secrets are revealed. There are countless other secrets in the Duvoisin family, however, and the reader is allowed an occasional peek or clue as the story unfolds.
Very little is discovered about Frederic Duvoisin. We are given glimpses of a misunderstood man who is at once angry, vengeful, tender, vulnerable and enigmatic. Mysteries abound in this book and the reader may well like and dislike the same characters. There is no shortage of plotters and schemers, and, along with Charmaine, the reader will need to discern which can and cannot be trusted.
This book is the first part of a trilogy. I was impressed by the listing of the cast of characters and their relationships and by the interview with authors, Debra and Valerie Gantt. In the interview section, the sisters allude to symbolism in the book which serve as hints to the sources of the secrets. The historical details are accurate and it’s a lively read that flows well.
A Silent Ocean Away is a mixture of adventure, mystery, romance, and suspense.
My grade: A
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Avon A (October 14, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061578231
By DeVa Gantt
Although this is an historical romance, it is not a bodice-ripper. Set in Richmond, Virginia, in 1837, it is a charming, intriguing, family saga with endearing characters. Heroine, Charmaine Ryan, is immediately likable and admired for her strength and perseverance. Some characters are not so endearing, however.
Eighteen-year-old Charmaine escapes from her life of poverty and fear when she is hired as a companion by a kind, prosperous Richmond couple, who love and nurture her. Eventually, they all travel to the tropical island of Les Charmantes, where Charmaine takes the post of governess to the young children of wealthy landowners, Frederic and Colette Duvoisin.
The children are delightful. Charmaine quickly befriends Colette Duvoisin, who is lonely and much younger than her husband. Colette earns the reader’s sympathy and admiration as her personal, emotional pain and secrets are revealed. There are countless other secrets in the Duvoisin family, however, and the reader is allowed an occasional peek or clue as the story unfolds.
Very little is discovered about Frederic Duvoisin. We are given glimpses of a misunderstood man who is at once angry, vengeful, tender, vulnerable and enigmatic. Mysteries abound in this book and the reader may well like and dislike the same characters. There is no shortage of plotters and schemers, and, along with Charmaine, the reader will need to discern which can and cannot be trusted.
This book is the first part of a trilogy. I was impressed by the listing of the cast of characters and their relationships and by the interview with authors, Debra and Valerie Gantt. In the interview section, the sisters allude to symbolism in the book which serve as hints to the sources of the secrets. The historical details are accurate and it’s a lively read that flows well.
A Silent Ocean Away is a mixture of adventure, mystery, romance, and suspense.
My grade: A
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Avon A (October 14, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061578231
August 23, 2018
LOved this book, unfortunately the sequel is no where to be found.
June 13, 2011
This was an ok to good book. 3.5 stars. I expected a romance, but I found that the family intrigue kept me reading more than anything else. There are so many layers of mystery to this novel that I cannot even begin to delve into all of them. Let's just say it's complicated.
I do think the book ends in an awkward spot. I knew that the book was the first of a trilogy, but I didn't realize that it wouldn't tie anything up at the end of the novel. If you want to truly discover the answer to any of the mysteries, then you have to keep reading. I found this frustrating. I had hoped that the book would finish its story, and the remaining novels would follow Yvette or Jeanette or George or some of the other characters. Instead, you're merely left with a bunch of questions.
I thought it was apparent that the book was coauthored, and the writing could definitely have been tighter. The style subtly changed a few different times. It could have been better.
My other qualm is that it seems that the romance between Paul and Charmaine is kind of forged. All of the sudden, Charmaine discovers she is in love with Paul. It seems like Paul is just pretending to be sweet and heroic with her. Every time we can see into his thoughts, all he can think about is getting it on. We don't see any of the conversations between Paul and Charmaine that make them fall in love. I just don't get it. In fact, I'm wondering if the authors want to make you dislike Paul to leave room for John. Of course, we probably won't know until the third book. Lame.
Regardless, I think I will read the second book. But I'll probably check it out from the library.
I do think the book ends in an awkward spot. I knew that the book was the first of a trilogy, but I didn't realize that it wouldn't tie anything up at the end of the novel. If you want to truly discover the answer to any of the mysteries, then you have to keep reading. I found this frustrating. I had hoped that the book would finish its story, and the remaining novels would follow Yvette or Jeanette or George or some of the other characters. Instead, you're merely left with a bunch of questions.
I thought it was apparent that the book was coauthored, and the writing could definitely have been tighter. The style subtly changed a few different times. It could have been better.
My other qualm is that it seems that the romance between Paul and Charmaine is kind of forged. All of the sudden, Charmaine discovers she is in love with Paul. It seems like Paul is just pretending to be sweet and heroic with her. Every time we can see into his thoughts, all he can think about is getting it on. We don't see any of the conversations between Paul and Charmaine that make them fall in love. I just don't get it. In fact, I'm wondering if the authors want to make you dislike Paul to leave room for John. Of course, we probably won't know until the third book. Lame.
Regardless, I think I will read the second book. But I'll probably check it out from the library.
May 31, 2010
I don't typically read historical/romance fiction, but I really enjoyed this book. I met the authors at a Borders book signing, and this was an impulse buy. I was impressed by the passion for their work and the story of its conception -- an endeavor that spanned 30 years.
At the start, I found the writing to be a little too descriptive, such that it was distracting, but as I got involved in the characters and the drama, the book was engrossing. The writing is very cohesive and the two authors' styles blend seamlessly. The historical aspect created a interesting, believable setting, but is not core to the book. The intrigue is ever-present, but the pacing is steady, which makes the story more absorbing than page-turning. The first volume does not have a definitive ending though, but neither does it end on a cliff hanger. I'm looking forward to the next book in the trilogy (likely, making a trip to the bookstore for it tonight).
At the start, I found the writing to be a little too descriptive, such that it was distracting, but as I got involved in the characters and the drama, the book was engrossing. The writing is very cohesive and the two authors' styles blend seamlessly. The historical aspect created a interesting, believable setting, but is not core to the book. The intrigue is ever-present, but the pacing is steady, which makes the story more absorbing than page-turning. The first volume does not have a definitive ending though, but neither does it end on a cliff hanger. I'm looking forward to the next book in the trilogy (likely, making a trip to the bookstore for it tonight).
June 21, 2013
I picked this up not knowing in it #1 in a trilogy. I found out there is a book that holds all 3 and that is - Colette's Prayer (2005-
This is a wonderfully fast paced, enthralling story that centers around Charmaine, a governess. The cast of characters keep the reader guessing as everyone is seemingly out for themselves. Who is using who becomes the question. I shed tears and became angry at the ending as it just hangs in the wind! I didn't want the book to end, so I am happy there is more, I just wieh I had the next book to pick up right away.
Highly recommend this book to any Historical Fiction readers who enjoy the era including 1833. The book takes place mostly on an island between Richmond and England.
This is a wonderfully fast paced, enthralling story that centers around Charmaine, a governess. The cast of characters keep the reader guessing as everyone is seemingly out for themselves. Who is using who becomes the question. I shed tears and became angry at the ending as it just hangs in the wind! I didn't want the book to end, so I am happy there is more, I just wieh I had the next book to pick up right away.
Highly recommend this book to any Historical Fiction readers who enjoy the era including 1833. The book takes place mostly on an island between Richmond and England.
August 26, 2012
The moment I finished this book, I downloaded the 2nd in the trilogy "Decision & Destiny". I enjoyed the story of the entrance of Charmaine Ryan into the Duvoisin household & her life as it becomes entangled in the characters & their emotional & turbulent history. A wonderfully researched & written saga of a family of great wealth & status but still subject to the mistakes & heartaches of all mortals. But don't read the first book if you're not planning to commit to the trilogy as you will be frustrated by the unanswered questions as you read that last page.
September 17, 2022
I began this book not realizing it was a trilogy. Our Hastings was closing down and I bought a giant stack of books at discount and this one happened to be in there. I could not put this one down. The real world meant nothing to me. I didn’t eat or do anything but read this story and the closer it got to the ending the more terrified I became that absolutely nothing was going to get resolved. And of course it didn’t. After finishing I immediately purchased the next two on my kindle because I just couldn’t wait for Amazon to deliver them.
November 26, 2007
My mom raved about this book so I decided to see what all the fuss was about. It is an 800 page epic, but it sucked me in right away and I couldn't put it down. It's about a rich family living on a Caribbean island in the 1800's. A young governess comes to the island to live with them and take care of the 3 children. Love, sex, scandal, and murder soon follow. This story has a lot of twists and turns, like I didn't see THAT ONE coming! And I cried a couple of times too. It was great.
June 27, 2010
I have to laugh....I actually really enjoyed this book. It is a "romance story" set in the 1800's. It was a quick fun read, with a bit more meat than I would expect from this type of book. I was a bit caught of guard at the end though. It has a very abrupt ending. It is the first book in a trilogy and the author basically just stops. I felt if though it were missing a few pages. Weird....but I do have to say I am curious and I am going to put the next one on hold.
August 13, 2010
This was a great opening to a trilogy. The authors do a very nice job introducing the characters and locations and I am looking very forward to continuing the story this April when part two is released. It is wonderful to read a book that elicits suspense and ire (Agatha and John) in me after just finishing two not so great books.
April 16, 2009
I might have liked the ending better if I'd realized it was the first book of a trilogy. Somehow, not knowing that, I was expecting something more conclusive. The second book was supposedly published this month. Wonder how long the library will take to get it... Good story if you like complicated family drama from the 1800s on a Caribbean island.
September 9, 2011
I just started this sprawling family saga and just loving it! It has been a while since I have read one of these, reminiscent of the Poldark saga from when I was a teen, long time ago!
Well now I have finished it and thoroughly enjoyed it! What is it about governesses, big houses, handsome men and family triangles???
Well now I have finished it and thoroughly enjoyed it! What is it about governesses, big houses, handsome men and family triangles???
September 1, 2010
I really wanted to like "a silent ocean away..." it has pretty high ratings on goodreads and i enjoy historical settings/sagas. but it was SO insipid. ugh. i could not respect myself if i finished it!
August 20, 2010
I love the setting of this book, I'd like to be there right now! It's an enjoyable escape read, a little fluffy but clean. It ends abruptly and I'm trying to decide if I want to finish the series...We read it for book club.
June 19, 2012
I love historical fiction and when my mom sent me this book, I immediately started it and could not put it down. I absolutely loved this book! Only bad thing is that if you do not already have the whole trilogy when you start reading, the end of this book will leave you dying to get the next!
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