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The Truitts #1
Appetites & Vices
He’s her ticket into high society…
Banking heiress Ursula Nunes has lived her life on the fringes of Philadelphia’s upper class. Her Jewish heritage means she’s never quite been welcomed by society’s elite…and her quick temper has never helped, either.
A faux engagement to the scion of the mid-Atlantic’s most storied family might work to repair her rumpled reputation and gain her entrée to the life she thinks she wants…if she can ignore the way her “betrothed” makes her feel warm all over and stay focused on her goal.
She’s his ticket out…
Former libertine John Thaddeus “Jay” Truitt is hardly the man to teach innocent women about propriety. Luckily, high society has little to do with being proper and everything to do with identifying your foe’s temptation—an art form Jay mastered long ago. A broken engagement will give him the perfect excuse to run off to Europe and a life of indulgence.
But when the game turns too personal, all bets are off…
Banking heiress Ursula Nunes has lived her life on the fringes of Philadelphia’s upper class. Her Jewish heritage means she’s never quite been welcomed by society’s elite…and her quick temper has never helped, either.
A faux engagement to the scion of the mid-Atlantic’s most storied family might work to repair her rumpled reputation and gain her entrée to the life she thinks she wants…if she can ignore the way her “betrothed” makes her feel warm all over and stay focused on her goal.
She’s his ticket out…
Former libertine John Thaddeus “Jay” Truitt is hardly the man to teach innocent women about propriety. Luckily, high society has little to do with being proper and everything to do with identifying your foe’s temptation—an art form Jay mastered long ago. A broken engagement will give him the perfect excuse to run off to Europe and a life of indulgence.
But when the game turns too personal, all bets are off…
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
December 4, 2018
This book was my first time reading historical romance, but if they're all even half this good, it won't be my last! To put it simply: I adored this story -- and I raced through it in only two days.
The characters were incredibly well developed and the plot included a number of surprising twists as long-kept secrets were revealed. The use of language was consistently lovely and clever, the dialogue crisp, and the banter between the two main characters so witty and sharp.
I loved how the author included some darker themes in the book, such as addiction and the high price of climbing toward high society. It gave this otherwise very fun love story an intriguing edge that I LOVED. Also, Ursula just might be one of my favorite characters that I've read in 2018. (I certainly related to her constant desire for sweets!) Do NOT miss out on this book.
The characters were incredibly well developed and the plot included a number of surprising twists as long-kept secrets were revealed. The use of language was consistently lovely and clever, the dialogue crisp, and the banter between the two main characters so witty and sharp.
I loved how the author included some darker themes in the book, such as addiction and the high price of climbing toward high society. It gave this otherwise very fun love story an intriguing edge that I LOVED. Also, Ursula just might be one of my favorite characters that I've read in 2018. (I certainly related to her constant desire for sweets!) Do NOT miss out on this book.
December 13, 2018
What a delightful read! I received an advance copy of this book, and had a great time with it. This was admittedly my first romance book ever, and I'm also admittedly probably not the target demographic, but hey-it was fun! The book has a great back-and-forth between an impossibly stuffy society and some *particularly* salacious activity happening behind the scenes. The main characters are both charming and flawed, very much living up to the title. Go read it, have a blast!
December 10, 2018
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this fantastic book! Felicia Grossman’s debut historical romance, Appetites and Vices, is everything you want and more!! This story is filled with so many emotions, it will have you flying through the pages until you get to the extremely satisfying end.
Ursula Nunes and Jay Truitt are both in need of something. Ursula needs a way to gain the approval of her best friend, Hugo’s, parents so they will allow them to marry…a tough feat for a Jewish girl with a reputation that’s not exactly flawless among societies elite. Jay Truitt, although born with the right status and limitless opportunities, has chosen a path filled with deadly temptation in order to escape the demons of his past. He needs someone to break his heart—publicly—so he can escape to Europe and never return. What begins as an unlikely partnership between Ursula and Jay, turns into a beautifully written story about two people who find themselves lacking, but see only the best parts of each other. But the mistakes Jay is running from, and past Ursula uncovers, may be too hard for them to overcome in the end.
Appetites and Vices is a love story about how two people come together and unexpectedly bring out the best in each other, each using their strengths to make the other stronger. It’s a story that uses the strength of its characters (Especially Ursula who is know one of my all-time favorite heroines!) to show how standing up for yourself and seeking truth to save others can break down any barriers set in front of you. I strongly recommend this book! I can’t wait to read the next book by Felicia Grossman!
Ursula Nunes and Jay Truitt are both in need of something. Ursula needs a way to gain the approval of her best friend, Hugo’s, parents so they will allow them to marry…a tough feat for a Jewish girl with a reputation that’s not exactly flawless among societies elite. Jay Truitt, although born with the right status and limitless opportunities, has chosen a path filled with deadly temptation in order to escape the demons of his past. He needs someone to break his heart—publicly—so he can escape to Europe and never return. What begins as an unlikely partnership between Ursula and Jay, turns into a beautifully written story about two people who find themselves lacking, but see only the best parts of each other. But the mistakes Jay is running from, and past Ursula uncovers, may be too hard for them to overcome in the end.
Appetites and Vices is a love story about how two people come together and unexpectedly bring out the best in each other, each using their strengths to make the other stronger. It’s a story that uses the strength of its characters (Especially Ursula who is know one of my all-time favorite heroines!) to show how standing up for yourself and seeking truth to save others can break down any barriers set in front of you. I strongly recommend this book! I can’t wait to read the next book by Felicia Grossman!
February 17, 2019
4.5/5
I don't remember when exactly I learned about Appetites & Vices, but I do remember feeling this desperate desire to read it. Historical romance is one of my favorite sub-genres and fake-relationships is one of my favorite tropes of all-times. So a combo of two of my favorite things was bound to have me all pumped to read this book. Luckily for me, it turned out to be an engrossing story that I couldn't put away!
The heart and soul of Appetites & Vices are the characters. I particularly grew fond of the heroine, Ursula throughout the book. She was just the sort of main character that I could read on and on about with her thoughtfulness, her passion, and her cleverness. Even though she came from a well-to-do family, she hasn't always felt welcome in Philadelphia society because of her Jewish background. Urs is not the kind of person to let that get in the way of anything. I loved that she was so willing to go after what she wanted. She paved her own way and it was hard not to want to root for her. Add to all that her adorable animals and her very relatable love for sweets, she was quite the charming personality. I also really enjoyed Jay's character. He was complex and so well-layered. There were many facets to his personality, some of which may seem unpleasant at first glance, but the more you get to know him, the more you realize just how much depth there was to him. Like Ursula, he too had been shunned in life, which led to him being damaged and lonely. It was a sad situation and it was tough watching him be so hard on himself as he battled with his demons.
It was through Jay's interactions with Urs that we see the more flirty and sexy side of him emerge. The two of them make a deal to be in a faux-engagement for their own personal reasons. Of course, anyone who reads romance knows exactly how such a fake relationship will end. I've read countless books with this trope and I never seem to tire of it. I thought Felicia Grossman especially handled it with a lot of flairs. Urs and Jay's banter and sexual chemistry were outstanding. I loved watching them interact, flirt and eventually, become intimate with each other. They both manage to find the worth in each other, which as a reader was something of a delight to observe. I may have squealed a few times ... Then, there were the sex scenes which were some of the best I have ever read. They managed to be steamy and moved the relationship forward. The journey to their happily ever after wasn't straightforward, but it was worth it. Appetites & Vices had a lot more going on to it than just the romantic developments. This story had a surprising amount of twists to it. Before I wrap up this review, I also have to mention just how much I loved Ursula's relationship with her father. It was so touching and had my heart soaring!
Having read Appetites & Vices, I am so excited that Felicia Grossman has debuted into the world of romance. If this book is anything to go by, romance readers are going to blessed with some phenomenal books. Make sure this 2019 debut is at the top of your TBR lists, friends!
I don't remember when exactly I learned about Appetites & Vices, but I do remember feeling this desperate desire to read it. Historical romance is one of my favorite sub-genres and fake-relationships is one of my favorite tropes of all-times. So a combo of two of my favorite things was bound to have me all pumped to read this book. Luckily for me, it turned out to be an engrossing story that I couldn't put away!
The heart and soul of Appetites & Vices are the characters. I particularly grew fond of the heroine, Ursula throughout the book. She was just the sort of main character that I could read on and on about with her thoughtfulness, her passion, and her cleverness. Even though she came from a well-to-do family, she hasn't always felt welcome in Philadelphia society because of her Jewish background. Urs is not the kind of person to let that get in the way of anything. I loved that she was so willing to go after what she wanted. She paved her own way and it was hard not to want to root for her. Add to all that her adorable animals and her very relatable love for sweets, she was quite the charming personality. I also really enjoyed Jay's character. He was complex and so well-layered. There were many facets to his personality, some of which may seem unpleasant at first glance, but the more you get to know him, the more you realize just how much depth there was to him. Like Ursula, he too had been shunned in life, which led to him being damaged and lonely. It was a sad situation and it was tough watching him be so hard on himself as he battled with his demons.
It was through Jay's interactions with Urs that we see the more flirty and sexy side of him emerge. The two of them make a deal to be in a faux-engagement for their own personal reasons. Of course, anyone who reads romance knows exactly how such a fake relationship will end. I've read countless books with this trope and I never seem to tire of it. I thought Felicia Grossman especially handled it with a lot of flairs. Urs and Jay's banter and sexual chemistry were outstanding. I loved watching them interact, flirt and eventually, become intimate with each other. They both manage to find the worth in each other, which as a reader was something of a delight to observe. I may have squealed a few times ... Then, there were the sex scenes which were some of the best I have ever read. They managed to be steamy and moved the relationship forward. The journey to their happily ever after wasn't straightforward, but it was worth it. Appetites & Vices had a lot more going on to it than just the romantic developments. This story had a surprising amount of twists to it. Before I wrap up this review, I also have to mention just how much I loved Ursula's relationship with her father. It was so touching and had my heart soaring!
Having read Appetites & Vices, I am so excited that Felicia Grossman has debuted into the world of romance. If this book is anything to go by, romance readers are going to blessed with some phenomenal books. Make sure this 2019 debut is at the top of your TBR lists, friends!
December 7, 2018
This has taken over a week to figure out how to write--not because I didn't love the book. But because there's so much to love I'm not sure where to start. So first I'll say, this book was SO refreshingly unique for a historical romance.
Ms. Grossman delivers a well-crafted story with two characters so well-developed and so well-flawed. Yes well-flawed, in painful ways that blend delicately into the story so it doesn't feel weighed down, yet defines the entire arc beautifully. She somehow manages to keep this a light, fun, bantery romance while underscoring everything with such depth and history that you'll end it both delighted and educated--without that heavy feeling of having had a history lesson. (Until you come across the short one in the afterword from the author, which I loved just as much!)
The short, nitty gritty romance review part: Yum. These two were sweet and fun and sizzling hot. There wasn't a doubt from the moment they met that they belonged together. And talk about a strong heroine. Yesss. Ursula was the epitome of what you see is what you get (and I loved what I got). And Jay was my favorite kind of book boyfriend: a little cocky, a little shy, and a lot protective and kind.
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC. But this review was all me & my honest thoughts, and a pleasure to write. I hope to read many more books by this author in the future.
Ms. Grossman delivers a well-crafted story with two characters so well-developed and so well-flawed. Yes well-flawed, in painful ways that blend delicately into the story so it doesn't feel weighed down, yet defines the entire arc beautifully. She somehow manages to keep this a light, fun, bantery romance while underscoring everything with such depth and history that you'll end it both delighted and educated--without that heavy feeling of having had a history lesson. (Until you come across the short one in the afterword from the author, which I loved just as much!)
The short, nitty gritty romance review part: Yum. These two were sweet and fun and sizzling hot. There wasn't a doubt from the moment they met that they belonged together. And talk about a strong heroine. Yesss. Ursula was the epitome of what you see is what you get (and I loved what I got). And Jay was my favorite kind of book boyfriend: a little cocky, a little shy, and a lot protective and kind.
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC. But this review was all me & my honest thoughts, and a pleasure to write. I hope to read many more books by this author in the future.
December 29, 2018
I had the privilege of reading an early draft of this book and it was such a fun, sexy, compelling read! I absolutely fell in love with the characters--both deeply flawed and immensely relatable.
January 2, 2019
I loved this delightful, thoughtful historical romance! APPETITES & VICES is the story of Ursula and Jay, as they navigate an upper-class Philadelphia society that is hostile toward each of them for different reasons. Ursula, because she’s Jewish and outspoken like her late mother, and Jay because he has a reputation as a spoiled playboy. When these two strike a deal to get what they want, sparks fly, past mistakes are confronted, and everything goes awry in the best ways.
Ursula is the star of the book, in my opinion. I love her for so many reasons, and here are some: (1) she’s strong-willed, (2) she loves sweets, (3) she’s passionate, (4) she has a pet monkey (and other animals), (5) she tries really hard at everything, (6) she’s tough but carries a bit of insecurity, (6) she has giant boobs that she’s not afraid to show off, (7) she tells the truth as she knows it, in all situations, (8) she’s smart but awkward socially. Ms. Grossman gives her such an entertaining, thoughtful voice, that the reader is pulled in as an Ursula fan from page one.
Jay is my first historical book boyfriend. He’s handsome (of course), more honorable than everyone in their world seems to think, and charismatic. He’s also a generous, gifted lover, which makes for some steamy, sexy scenes. Jay’s got the Issues (capital “I” is not a typo there), and he struggles, but he powers through the best he’s able. One of my favorite scenes is when he’s confronted with one of the said Issues, and he actually listens to his parents and turns his own destiny around. And boy, oh boy, is he into Ursula.
These two don’t have it easy as they find their happily ever after, but eventually, they figure out that together they make a formidable team, able to get through just about anything. APPETITES & VICES is a wonderful debut by Felicia Grossman, which I highly recommend.
Ursula is the star of the book, in my opinion. I love her for so many reasons, and here are some: (1) she’s strong-willed, (2) she loves sweets, (3) she’s passionate, (4) she has a pet monkey (and other animals), (5) she tries really hard at everything, (6) she’s tough but carries a bit of insecurity, (6) she has giant boobs that she’s not afraid to show off, (7) she tells the truth as she knows it, in all situations, (8) she’s smart but awkward socially. Ms. Grossman gives her such an entertaining, thoughtful voice, that the reader is pulled in as an Ursula fan from page one.
Jay is my first historical book boyfriend. He’s handsome (of course), more honorable than everyone in their world seems to think, and charismatic. He’s also a generous, gifted lover, which makes for some steamy, sexy scenes. Jay’s got the Issues (capital “I” is not a typo there), and he struggles, but he powers through the best he’s able. One of my favorite scenes is when he’s confronted with one of the said Issues, and he actually listens to his parents and turns his own destiny around. And boy, oh boy, is he into Ursula.
These two don’t have it easy as they find their happily ever after, but eventually, they figure out that together they make a formidable team, able to get through just about anything. APPETITES & VICES is a wonderful debut by Felicia Grossman, which I highly recommend.
January 2, 2019
Before I got my hands on this book I hadn’t read any historical romance, and I couldn’t have cut my HR teeth on a better book if I’d searched for ten more years. I’m in love with Jay and Ursula. I love the story, their quirks, their flaws, their banter, their... everything. Both Jay & Urs are functionally-disfunctional, unique, beautiful messes and they are perfect for each other.
It’s an easy read that catches you off guard with feel-punches when you least expect it. Mrs. Grossman doesn’t over describe, or try to drown the reader in details and I suuuuper appreciate that in a book. I want to get in the scene, in the action, and she totally delivers that.
Loved this book. Jay is wonderful and Urs is blunt in a way I *wish* I could be. Did I mention that I love this book?
It’s an easy read that catches you off guard with feel-punches when you least expect it. Mrs. Grossman doesn’t over describe, or try to drown the reader in details and I suuuuper appreciate that in a book. I want to get in the scene, in the action, and she totally delivers that.
Loved this book. Jay is wonderful and Urs is blunt in a way I *wish* I could be. Did I mention that I love this book?
April 5, 2019
I've given this a B- at AAR, so that's 3.5 stars rounded up. The author shows potential, but this has an overcomplicated plot and some writing and grammar quirks that really bugged me.
Felicia Grossman’s début historical romance, Appetites & Vices makes use of a setting I’ve not come across before in historical romance – 1840s Delaware – and boasts a couple of interesting, though flawed, central characters who enter into a faux engagement in an attempt to better the social standing of the heroine so she can marry the man of her choice. There are some things about the plot that didn’t quite work and some odd writing tics that took me out of the story on occasion, but overall it’s a solid outing and I’ll be keeping an eye out for more of Ms. Grossman’s work.
Ursula Nunes is twenty-one, beautiful, clever and wealthy. By rights, she should have society at her feet, and she would, but for two things. One, she says what she thinks and has no social skills whatsoever. And two – she’s Jewish, which, in Delaware in 1841 puts her pretty much beyond the pale. She and her dearest friend Hugo Middleton have decided that it would be preferable to marry each other than to marry strangers, but the Middletons are one of the oldest families in society and with Hugo’s father intent on securing personal advancement, won’t countenance Hugo’s marriage to a Jew, no matter how rich she is.
John Thaddeus Truitt V – Jay – comes from a family that is even more prestigious than the Middletons, but that doesn’t mean life is any easier for him. The only son of a disapproving father who always believes the worst of him, Jay is well aware he’s a disappointment all round and wants nothing more than to take himself off to Europe and never come back. When he witnesses Ursula and Hugo in intense, whispered conversation and then overhears Ursula muttering to herself about ways she could ingratiate herself with the Middletons , he finds himself fighting back laughter at the incongruity of the idea of a woman as strong and vibrant as Ursula paired with a man so clearly unsuited to her as Hugo. But then inspiration strikes – and he has the solution to both their problems. In spite of his blackened reputation, the Truitt name still counts for something, and if he and Ursula pretend to be engaged to one another, her association with him means she’ll be able to move in the exclusive social circles to which she is currently denied entrance. And when she jilts him publicly,
“A good faux broken heart will be enough for my parents to stop trying to make me into something I’m not.”
That’s the set-up for the story, and the author does a really good job of exploring the prejudice Ursula encounters because of her birth and the difficulties she faces because she has so little patience with the superficiality of high society. She wants so badly to belong, but she doesn’t fit in anywhere, not in Hugo’s world, certainly not in Jay’s… and not even in that of her own (Jewish) family.
Jay is a very troubled young man who feels that nothing he ever does will be good enough and is so weighed down by guilt that all he wants to do is to escape into the drug-induced haze that is the only thing he’s found that will enable him to forget and lay down those burdens. The truth of Jay’s addiction isn’t sugar-coated; although the author doesn’t come out and directly say Jay is an opium addict – instead hinting at it – until some way into the book, his cravings are clearly and convincingly described.
There’s a lot to like about this novel, not least of which is the humour and snappy banter between the two principals, and the way the author shows the understanding that develops between them; I particularly enjoyed the scenes where Jay uses the game of poker to try to teach Ursula how to read people and situations. Their chemistry isn’t the strongest I’ve ever read, but it simmers nicely, and the love scenes are well written. BUT. I don’t know a lot about American society of the time, but I’m guessing the rules that governed male/female interaction were pretty similar to those in England, so I was surprised at how often Ursula and Jay were able to sneak off to have sex – in her house with family members (her father!) and servants around (there’s an explanation of sorts given towards the end, but that seemed like a convenient afterthought), and please, can we stop it with the virgin heroines who can give championship blow jobs at the first attempt and deep-throat the hero like a professional? I get that Ursula is curious and uninhibited, but I just don’t buy into that whole she-knows-how-to-do-it-just-by-instinct thing.
I also found some of the plans and situations rather convoluted – there were a few places where I had to stop and go back to re-read – and there’s quite a lot of woeful introspection on the part of both protagonists that got to be a bit much. The middle of the book is repetitive, and the way the secrets held by various characters are foreshadowed is quite heavy-handed. There are also some grammatical constructions that really bugged me and kept pulling me out of the story. I won’t go into huge detail, as I know not everyone is a grammar-nerd like me, but one thing I will mention is the use of contractions with names. Instead of ‘Lydia would’ or ‘Rachel did’, we get ‘Lydia’d’ or ‘Rachel’d’. Now, sure, they’re both fine on occasion, but in some places, sentences and phrases are so littered with them that they become unnatural and clumsy. If read aloud, they’d sound pretty odd. Some of the dialogue felt ‘off’ for the time period, and for some reason, Jay decides to shorten Ursula’s name and calls her ‘Urs’, which is a really ugly diminutive, and sounded far too close to ‘arse’ whenever I heard it in my head. If you don’t like your protagonist’s name, then use a different one!
Speaking of Ursula (I refuse to call her ‘Urs’!), I confess that for all her spark and originality, I found her difficult to connect with, and sometimes felt her behaviour to be quite immature (and she cries a lot). On the other hand, I did like Jay and warmed to him more easily; he’s damaged, witty, dangerously charming and possessed of the kind of emotional intelligence that Ursula lacks.
Even with the reservations I’ve expressed, I’m giving Appetites & Vices a recommendation, albeit a cautious one. The story at its heart – a woman who wants to belong and a man who wants to be seen for who he really is – is a good one, Jay and Ursula are well-matched, and both character and romantic development are well-done.
Felicia Grossman’s début historical romance, Appetites & Vices makes use of a setting I’ve not come across before in historical romance – 1840s Delaware – and boasts a couple of interesting, though flawed, central characters who enter into a faux engagement in an attempt to better the social standing of the heroine so she can marry the man of her choice. There are some things about the plot that didn’t quite work and some odd writing tics that took me out of the story on occasion, but overall it’s a solid outing and I’ll be keeping an eye out for more of Ms. Grossman’s work.
Ursula Nunes is twenty-one, beautiful, clever and wealthy. By rights, she should have society at her feet, and she would, but for two things. One, she says what she thinks and has no social skills whatsoever. And two – she’s Jewish, which, in Delaware in 1841 puts her pretty much beyond the pale. She and her dearest friend Hugo Middleton have decided that it would be preferable to marry each other than to marry strangers, but the Middletons are one of the oldest families in society and with Hugo’s father intent on securing personal advancement, won’t countenance Hugo’s marriage to a Jew, no matter how rich she is.
John Thaddeus Truitt V – Jay – comes from a family that is even more prestigious than the Middletons, but that doesn’t mean life is any easier for him. The only son of a disapproving father who always believes the worst of him, Jay is well aware he’s a disappointment all round and wants nothing more than to take himself off to Europe and never come back. When he witnesses Ursula and Hugo in intense, whispered conversation and then overhears Ursula muttering to herself about ways she could ingratiate herself with the Middletons , he finds himself fighting back laughter at the incongruity of the idea of a woman as strong and vibrant as Ursula paired with a man so clearly unsuited to her as Hugo. But then inspiration strikes – and he has the solution to both their problems. In spite of his blackened reputation, the Truitt name still counts for something, and if he and Ursula pretend to be engaged to one another, her association with him means she’ll be able to move in the exclusive social circles to which she is currently denied entrance. And when she jilts him publicly,
“A good faux broken heart will be enough for my parents to stop trying to make me into something I’m not.”
That’s the set-up for the story, and the author does a really good job of exploring the prejudice Ursula encounters because of her birth and the difficulties she faces because she has so little patience with the superficiality of high society. She wants so badly to belong, but she doesn’t fit in anywhere, not in Hugo’s world, certainly not in Jay’s… and not even in that of her own (Jewish) family.
Jay is a very troubled young man who feels that nothing he ever does will be good enough and is so weighed down by guilt that all he wants to do is to escape into the drug-induced haze that is the only thing he’s found that will enable him to forget and lay down those burdens. The truth of Jay’s addiction isn’t sugar-coated; although the author doesn’t come out and directly say Jay is an opium addict – instead hinting at it – until some way into the book, his cravings are clearly and convincingly described.
There’s a lot to like about this novel, not least of which is the humour and snappy banter between the two principals, and the way the author shows the understanding that develops between them; I particularly enjoyed the scenes where Jay uses the game of poker to try to teach Ursula how to read people and situations. Their chemistry isn’t the strongest I’ve ever read, but it simmers nicely, and the love scenes are well written. BUT. I don’t know a lot about American society of the time, but I’m guessing the rules that governed male/female interaction were pretty similar to those in England, so I was surprised at how often Ursula and Jay were able to sneak off to have sex – in her house with family members (her father!) and servants around (there’s an explanation of sorts given towards the end, but that seemed like a convenient afterthought), and please, can we stop it with the virgin heroines who can give championship blow jobs at the first attempt and deep-throat the hero like a professional? I get that Ursula is curious and uninhibited, but I just don’t buy into that whole she-knows-how-to-do-it-just-by-instinct thing.
I also found some of the plans and situations rather convoluted – there were a few places where I had to stop and go back to re-read – and there’s quite a lot of woeful introspection on the part of both protagonists that got to be a bit much. The middle of the book is repetitive, and the way the secrets held by various characters are foreshadowed is quite heavy-handed. There are also some grammatical constructions that really bugged me and kept pulling me out of the story. I won’t go into huge detail, as I know not everyone is a grammar-nerd like me, but one thing I will mention is the use of contractions with names. Instead of ‘Lydia would’ or ‘Rachel did’, we get ‘Lydia’d’ or ‘Rachel’d’. Now, sure, they’re both fine on occasion, but in some places, sentences and phrases are so littered with them that they become unnatural and clumsy. If read aloud, they’d sound pretty odd. Some of the dialogue felt ‘off’ for the time period, and for some reason, Jay decides to shorten Ursula’s name and calls her ‘Urs’, which is a really ugly diminutive, and sounded far too close to ‘arse’ whenever I heard it in my head. If you don’t like your protagonist’s name, then use a different one!
Speaking of Ursula (I refuse to call her ‘Urs’!), I confess that for all her spark and originality, I found her difficult to connect with, and sometimes felt her behaviour to be quite immature (and she cries a lot). On the other hand, I did like Jay and warmed to him more easily; he’s damaged, witty, dangerously charming and possessed of the kind of emotional intelligence that Ursula lacks.
Even with the reservations I’ve expressed, I’m giving Appetites & Vices a recommendation, albeit a cautious one. The story at its heart – a woman who wants to belong and a man who wants to be seen for who he really is – is a good one, Jay and Ursula are well-matched, and both character and romantic development are well-done.
January 3, 2019
A fantastic autistic Jewish heroine, pining pine tree hero, and SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF ANGST? Really what more could I have asked for?
Nothing, I tell you, nothing.
Nothing, I tell you, nothing.
February 7, 2019
As someone who doesn’t normally read historical romance, I was entirely blown away by Grossman’s Appetites & Vices. This is such an excellent example of fully developed, engaging characters, and I was totally absorbed by their conflicts and choices. Ursula is a breath of fresh air. She’s logical and stubborn and loves her sweets, and everything about her is so uniquely charming. Jay’s backstory, and the way it unfolds, is so masterfully done that I was rapidly turning the pages to try and guess the extent of his secrets. There is so much to love about Appetites & Vices, and I absolutely cannot wait for Grossman’s next novel. Definitely add this to your TBR list!
January 20, 2019
I really loved the plot of this M/F romance set in Delaware in the early 1840s. Ursula Nunes of the wealthy Jewish banking family is a very attractive blonde with absolutely NO social skills. Jay Truitt is a broken man, a recovering opium addict. The two decide to pretend to be engaged so as to raise Ursula's social status so she will be deemed worthy to marry Hugh Middleton - not that she loves Hugh, but they sort of grew up together and figure marriage to each other will be better that being sold to the highest bidder. Jay plans to run off to Europe after the broken engagement and live a life free of his demanding family who find him a complete and utter failure.
I like the premise, but unfortunately I had a difficult time with the writing style throughout. Each MC spends a lot of time in their head pondering, mulling, agonizing, etc. (plus Ursula cries a lot - A LOT) plus there are loads of secrets that are foreshadowed for most of the book. At times the convoluted situations, plans and interactions felt like too much effort to decipher, and I'm still not certain about some plot points!
However, Grossman writes a great sex scene and the chemistry and relationship between Ursula and Jay is sizzling and very passionate. I also liked the character development and the way Jay uses poker to teach Ursula how to hide her emotions and get what she wants and deserves.
I liked the plot but the intensely convoluted writing style did not work for me personally. 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the publisher Carina Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I like the premise, but unfortunately I had a difficult time with the writing style throughout. Each MC spends a lot of time in their head pondering, mulling, agonizing, etc. (plus Ursula cries a lot - A LOT) plus there are loads of secrets that are foreshadowed for most of the book. At times the convoluted situations, plans and interactions felt like too much effort to decipher, and I'm still not certain about some plot points!
However, Grossman writes a great sex scene and the chemistry and relationship between Ursula and Jay is sizzling and very passionate. I also liked the character development and the way Jay uses poker to teach Ursula how to hide her emotions and get what she wants and deserves.
I liked the plot but the intensely convoluted writing style did not work for me personally. 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the publisher Carina Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2019
This didn't end up working for me, and I'm bummed about that because it's a non-traditional histrom and I always want to encourage the existence of those works. I think at the end of it, the reasons it didn't work for me can be boiled down to overwrought prose and a constant stream of bullying that I understood, but that made me physically uncomfortable nonetheless.
I'd like to say I'll try the next book in this series, but I don't want to buy it and the odds of my library purchasing it are pretty low, so that's probably not going to happen.
I'd like to say I'll try the next book in this series, but I don't want to buy it and the odds of my library purchasing it are pretty low, so that's probably not going to happen.
February 14, 2019
Happy Valentine’s Day, my lovelies! 💕 I’m so excited to feature this week’s smashingly brilliant historical romance with a Jewish heroine and a smolderingly sexy bad boy hero. Appetites & Vices, by Felicia Grossman—released by Carina Press—as my lovers’ holiday review! It’s a treat and a half, to say the least. It’s also the first in a series, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!
This little gem happens to be the first historical book I’d ever read that truly piqued my interest. I was fortunate enough to beta read for Ms. Grossman—both for this, and for the next book in the series entitled Dalliances & Devotions, set to be released in September! I positively gobbled them both up. Ms. Grossman managed the impossible by drawing my non-historical reading self into a love and obsession with her characters!
Ursula Nunes might very well be one of my favorite—and if nothing else, the feistiest!—heroine I’ve had the pleasure of reading in quite some time. Her voice is so distinct, and her character so vivid, I was left blinking big ol’ heart eyes. And that’s nothing on what Jay Truitt did to me. Holy guacamole, folks. This stud is Hot with a capital “H.” Ms. Grossman manages to draw such realism and beauty into her characters, that I assure you’ll be walking away just as grinning-like-crazy as I was.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romances, but also to anyone who might not think they’re a historical fan and is willing to give it a one-off shot at proving themselves wrong. Because, speaking from experience, Ms. Grossman—and her cast of delightful characters—will win you over. Of that, I have no doubt!
This little gem happens to be the first historical book I’d ever read that truly piqued my interest. I was fortunate enough to beta read for Ms. Grossman—both for this, and for the next book in the series entitled Dalliances & Devotions, set to be released in September! I positively gobbled them both up. Ms. Grossman managed the impossible by drawing my non-historical reading self into a love and obsession with her characters!
Ursula Nunes might very well be one of my favorite—and if nothing else, the feistiest!—heroine I’ve had the pleasure of reading in quite some time. Her voice is so distinct, and her character so vivid, I was left blinking big ol’ heart eyes. And that’s nothing on what Jay Truitt did to me. Holy guacamole, folks. This stud is Hot with a capital “H.” Ms. Grossman manages to draw such realism and beauty into her characters, that I assure you’ll be walking away just as grinning-like-crazy as I was.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romances, but also to anyone who might not think they’re a historical fan and is willing to give it a one-off shot at proving themselves wrong. Because, speaking from experience, Ms. Grossman—and her cast of delightful characters—will win you over. Of that, I have no doubt!
December 26, 2018
All Ursula ever wanted was to fit in. She is a banking heiress who is also Jewish. Being from the most wealthy family in Delaware should give her an in to society but she is too outspoken. It's not England, but the discrimination is still there. While trying to get her childhood friend to marry her, another man overhears and offers to become fake bethrothed to get away from his parents. John Thaddeus “Jay” Truitt, a reformed libertine, belongs in society and can provide an open invitation to all the parties and soirees. All Jay wants is to get away from his family, his position, his past. When things become more than fake, will their love survive? Jay has secrets that he has never shared and secrets that are killing his family. So many hurts. Will Jay prove worthy of Ursula? I loved the story line. There were stories inside the main story. It entertains but tackles some tough subjects that are relevant today. I enjoyed it very much. Strong, sassy heroine, sympathetic hero. I received this book from Net Galley and Carina Press for a honest review. The opinions are my own.
January 9, 2019
A forthright Jewish heroine desperate for acceptance in 19th century Philadelphia. A well-bred scion of a respected family, determined to run from his demons. Together, they plot to get their heart’s desire – she, to enter society with grace, he to leave it forever – and as their pretend friendship turns to true kinship, they discover they have so much more in common, and need each other so much more, than they could ever have imagined. Zesty and full of spirit with leads to cheer for and no little steam (if you’re into that sort of thing), Appetites and Vices is an electrifying debut, and thoroughly enjoyable from beginning to end. – Rachel Hyland
January 14, 2019
Oh man, this book was so great. Ursula is headstrong and brash and perfectly imperfect while Jay is swoony and frustrating and wonderful. The historical backdrop of this novel is sometime/place I've never really known about before, so all accuracy and detail was stunning.
Also, hold onto your hats because this one can get pretty steamy. I was rooting so hard for these two the entire time and you can't help but fall in love with them and their imperfections.
I was lucky to receive an ARC and I highly suggest buying and reading this book!
Also, hold onto your hats because this one can get pretty steamy. I was rooting so hard for these two the entire time and you can't help but fall in love with them and their imperfections.
I was lucky to receive an ARC and I highly suggest buying and reading this book!
February 20, 2019
This is an incredibly strong romance between two flawed, real and utterly delightful characters. Better yet, it’s got that one thing which can be ridiculously elusive in historical romances; it’s got diversity. Ursula, the heroine, is Jewish, full-figured, and definitely on the autism spectrum. In 1848 Philadelphia society, however, she comes across as unbearably brash and friendless except for Hugo, an awkward, bookish type she hopes to marry purely to avoid ending up alone. When Hugo’s parents refuse to allow the match, however, Jay Truitt comes into the picture, offering a fake engagement as a way to help achieve both Ursula’s goal and serve his own ends.
Jay’s hard to like at first, as his sardonic inner thoughts critique Ursula, but hints soon clue the reader in to the bitter truth of Jay; he’s a recovering opium addict. Opium addiction is one of the dirty secrets a lot of historical fiction glosses over, and I’ve only seen one other book which covered the painful recovery addicts had to suffer in the era. Jay’s continuing battle against his demons and the way his growing love for Ursula helps him keep them at bay is beautifully written.
There’s a lot more to unpack about both Jay and Ursula and the way they’re treated by the society they move in, and how they both recognize the injustice that Jay can get away with almost anything because he’s a wealthy white man whereas Ursula, despite her riches, is almost a pariah. Jay teaching Ursula to play poker as a strategy for learning to read people and tailor her reactions accordingly was masterfully done.
Despite not liking Jay in the beginning, by the end of the story I was rooting for this couple to succeed together. This is a really well-written historical romance which doesn’t shy away from the tough topics and paints a very accurate picture of the situation Jews found themselves in, in the mid-19th century in both the US and Europe. Five stars for an engrossing read, and I’ll definitely be looking for more by this author.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review from NetGalley.
Jay’s hard to like at first, as his sardonic inner thoughts critique Ursula, but hints soon clue the reader in to the bitter truth of Jay; he’s a recovering opium addict. Opium addiction is one of the dirty secrets a lot of historical fiction glosses over, and I’ve only seen one other book which covered the painful recovery addicts had to suffer in the era. Jay’s continuing battle against his demons and the way his growing love for Ursula helps him keep them at bay is beautifully written.
There’s a lot more to unpack about both Jay and Ursula and the way they’re treated by the society they move in, and how they both recognize the injustice that Jay can get away with almost anything because he’s a wealthy white man whereas Ursula, despite her riches, is almost a pariah. Jay teaching Ursula to play poker as a strategy for learning to read people and tailor her reactions accordingly was masterfully done.
Despite not liking Jay in the beginning, by the end of the story I was rooting for this couple to succeed together. This is a really well-written historical romance which doesn’t shy away from the tough topics and paints a very accurate picture of the situation Jews found themselves in, in the mid-19th century in both the US and Europe. Five stars for an engrossing read, and I’ll definitely be looking for more by this author.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review from NetGalley.
January 13, 2019
Appetites and Vices achieved what I thought was the impossible. It was a historical romance I enjoyed. Actually more than enjoyed, I loved this book. It’s set in America. Most historicals are not, they feature Dukes and Lords, and characters along those lines. Having a historical set in the states was a first for me. I’m sure there are others out there, I’m just saying I’ve not come across them, so it was a refreshing change. Second it features a Jewish heroine. Another first for me. The author does an amazing job of weaving in the details of the Jewish way of life so that the reader gets a glimpse into that world without bogging us down in all the details. I learned without having it feel like a lecture.
Now on to the characters. OMG I LOVED THEM BOTH. Ursula is probably what some might call and ‘unlikable’ heroine. She’s smart, assertive, speaks her mind, goes after what she wants, and is sex positive. Even in contemporary settings, those qualities can deem a heroine ‘unlikable’ but you give them to a woman back in the day, well she’s damn near a pariah. And Urs was in her own way. But the author let you see how much Urs longed to fit in and be accepted. You felt for her and wanted her to win and maybe give a double middle finger to those she wanted so desperately to impress.
Enter Jay. I adored him. A sexy, confident veneer. Beneath he was like Urs, he wanted to be accepted and to fit in, but for him it was within his own family. Jay was a man that struggled under the weight of labels attached to him. When people looked at him, they saw only his mistakes, never what he could have been if only given the chance. Until Urs.
They were the ‘odd couple’ but they worked. Even with the push and pull in their interactions you could see how well they worked together. And when they needed to be a team, despite their up and down personal feelings about each other, they were a force.
This story takes you through the highs and lows, and throws in a few laugh out loud moments. A great read that I highly recommend.
Now on to the characters. OMG I LOVED THEM BOTH. Ursula is probably what some might call and ‘unlikable’ heroine. She’s smart, assertive, speaks her mind, goes after what she wants, and is sex positive. Even in contemporary settings, those qualities can deem a heroine ‘unlikable’ but you give them to a woman back in the day, well she’s damn near a pariah. And Urs was in her own way. But the author let you see how much Urs longed to fit in and be accepted. You felt for her and wanted her to win and maybe give a double middle finger to those she wanted so desperately to impress.
Enter Jay. I adored him. A sexy, confident veneer. Beneath he was like Urs, he wanted to be accepted and to fit in, but for him it was within his own family. Jay was a man that struggled under the weight of labels attached to him. When people looked at him, they saw only his mistakes, never what he could have been if only given the chance. Until Urs.
They were the ‘odd couple’ but they worked. Even with the push and pull in their interactions you could see how well they worked together. And when they needed to be a team, despite their up and down personal feelings about each other, they were a force.
This story takes you through the highs and lows, and throws in a few laugh out loud moments. A great read that I highly recommend.
January 4, 2019
Secrets, secrets, secrets. This is a splendid read full of secrets held, passion fulfilled, and love found––in all the wrong place.
I loved Ursula's stubborn, yet logical brain, and her lack of a poker face or filter (on occasion) were traits I identify with, whole-heartedly. Her slyly naughty tongue, yet lack of experience was weaved into the story so very well for the time period.
Jay is yummy. Broken, and oh, I soooo want to fix this man. He is splendid as Urs opposite with his penchant for interacting with people and making everyone at ease.
The settings are drawn gorgeously, the story kept me enthralled, but my favorite parts this book were the interactions between Jay and Ursula. Clever, witty, intriguing, their dialogue was never dull and the undercurrent between them...it was fire.
My only real problem with this book is that it ended. Bravo, Ms. Grossman. Appetites & Vices is a beautiful debut!
I loved Ursula's stubborn, yet logical brain, and her lack of a poker face or filter (on occasion) were traits I identify with, whole-heartedly. Her slyly naughty tongue, yet lack of experience was weaved into the story so very well for the time period.
Jay is yummy. Broken, and oh, I soooo want to fix this man. He is splendid as Urs opposite with his penchant for interacting with people and making everyone at ease.
The settings are drawn gorgeously, the story kept me enthralled, but my favorite parts this book were the interactions between Jay and Ursula. Clever, witty, intriguing, their dialogue was never dull and the undercurrent between them...it was fire.
My only real problem with this book is that it ended. Bravo, Ms. Grossman. Appetites & Vices is a beautiful debut!
January 6, 2019
I don’t normally lean toword Historical Romance and this was the perfect starter book for me. Ursala is a strong, modern heroine in a realistic past setting. Jay, despite his faults (no spoilers!!!) also perfectly bridges the gap between relatable hurdles and trying to stay afloat in a socially pressured world. And he’s kinda dreamy.
Amazing debut from this author and I look forward to future books.
Amazing debut from this author and I look forward to future books.
February 22, 2019
I kept Felicia Grossman’s Appetites and Vices close to my reader heart for weeks, patiently awaiting release day. I was excited about a new romance writer with an unusual premise. Sadly, work kept me at a panting pace and my reading was sporadic at best, a chapter here, a nodding over a page in bed there. My interest, maybe because of the pace at which I read, was equally uneven, enthralled at times, sluggish at others. More of that later.
For now, to the plot and premise! Which proved convoluted. In 1841 Delaware, 21-year-old Ursula Nunes, adored daughter of Judah, smart, eccentric, and Jewish, is insider and outsider to society. Outsider thanks to her religion, insider thanks to her family’s wealth. Whatever makes her an outsider to society by virtue of her birth is compounded by her eccentricities: beautiful, blonde, curvaceous, and blunt, blurting painful truths and creating awkward silences, gaps in sociable chitchat, and painful stretches without dancing partners, female friends stand at nil.
But Ursula, who keeps the family books like a gorgeous abacus, has an idea: to marry her friend, Hugo Middleton, equally removed, but blissfully gentile, and salvage both their lives. Unfortunately, Hugo’s father has other ideas, involving Hugo and the daughter of an influential man who’ll ensure him a judgeship. In enters dissipated hero, Jay Truitt, notorious womanizer of dubious sobriety, who makes a pact with Ursula: they will pretend an engagement, making her more sought-after and attractive to Hugo’s family, Jay will teach Ursula society’s ways and, in turn, he will escape his family’s strictures and travel to Europe, where he can quietly be as useless as he’s been and feels.
I adored Ursula, who, like me, doesn’t suffer fools well or easily, and I loved Jay, older but not wiser, charming, vulnerable, weak, and oh-so-interesting. They were complex, compelling, and perfectly compatible. They were outside the pale, with families who loved, but didn’t quite understand them, of questionable reputations. Ursula is distinguished by her Jewishness: ” … a four-time deviant. Her Jewishness, her wealth, her near-aggressive beauty, and her charm – or lack thereof – made her almost hopeless.” Jay is set apart by his addiction: “Two years he’d held himself together, but the moment he returned home a single craving ensorcelled his senses – too many people, too many rules, too many memories.” Ursula and Jay also share integrity, the ability to give and receive affection, and a strong protective streak, especially Ursula, who, despite her youth and inexperience, rescues her family, her friend, and Jay.
When Grossman’s novel opens and Jay and Ursula have made their pact, the narrative is peppered with witty repartee, especially from Ursula. Jay and Ursula reminded me of Chase’s Rupert and Daphne in Mr. Impossible, Jay being charm and not-much-by-way-of-brains and Ursula a brainiac of the first order. Their initial exchanges are a hoot:
There was gossip about him, and not the good kind. She frowned. Something about him being a drunkard? …
“So, a dullard, not a drunkard, and libertine to boot. I’m not sure if that’s an improvement.”
“Have you been conversing with my father?” …
“What do you want to do?” She studied him. What did this man enjoy? Besides the obvious?
“I don’t know. I’ve never really thought about it.” He shrugged, still staring out over the party. “Travel? I like meeting people.”
“And finding ways to remove their clothing.”
Despite Ursula and Jay’s banter, they have more in common than their initial opposites-convenience pact suggests. Jay and Ursula share shame: he because he disappointed his family and remains a craving, sweaty, craven addict and Ursula because she can’t get any of the social niceties right. Their initial incompatibility soon turns to a deep sympathy and Grossman does a great job of showing how two people grow in respect and affection.
But her narrative struggles under too-much-ness. It veers out-of-control from what starts out as comedic and turns into the torments of hell for Jay and an overly sentimental and dramatic family reckoning for Ursula. In a nutshell, I think Grossman’s a romance writer to watch (and I’ll follow her to the next book), but in Appetites and Vices, she isn’t quite able to steer the ship. She is a writer not quite in control of her ample material.
On the other hand, who can resist the depth and charm of passages such as these:
“Is there a difference? Between vices and appetites, I mean?” And her mouth, her perfect plump, pouty lips – even eating an apple. She’d be the death of him one of these days.
“Well – ” Jay pushed back his hair with his palm. “I suppose it comes down to control, order versus disorder. With a vice, you’ve lost all semblance of control. You crave, and you need to have what you desire, no matter the consequences. With a mere appetite, you indulge and enjoy, but if the subject was not ideal, you could pass. You aren’t filling an empty hole.”
The beauty of Grossman’s magnificent conclusion, in contrast to her saggy middle, is the notion of enough. Jay and Ursula, though there is pain and setback, find that emptiness can be filled by sharing love, through the body, heart, and spirit. When the other is enough, complete, perfect:
“No one had ever smiled at him like that, satisfied with just him.”
And as Jay says to Ursula, “I want you because you’re you and that’s all. You don’t need to be or do anything else. That’s enough. You’re enough … ” For this reader, it may not have been perfect, but Grossman’s Appetites and Vices was enough: every imperfect, original, compelling word of it. With Ms Austen, we say that Appetites and Vices is evidence of “a mind lively and at ease,” Emma.
Felicia Grossman’s Appetites and Vices is published by Carina Press. It was released on February 18th and may be found at your preferred vendors. I received an e-ARC from Carina Press, via Netgalley.
For now, to the plot and premise! Which proved convoluted. In 1841 Delaware, 21-year-old Ursula Nunes, adored daughter of Judah, smart, eccentric, and Jewish, is insider and outsider to society. Outsider thanks to her religion, insider thanks to her family’s wealth. Whatever makes her an outsider to society by virtue of her birth is compounded by her eccentricities: beautiful, blonde, curvaceous, and blunt, blurting painful truths and creating awkward silences, gaps in sociable chitchat, and painful stretches without dancing partners, female friends stand at nil.
But Ursula, who keeps the family books like a gorgeous abacus, has an idea: to marry her friend, Hugo Middleton, equally removed, but blissfully gentile, and salvage both their lives. Unfortunately, Hugo’s father has other ideas, involving Hugo and the daughter of an influential man who’ll ensure him a judgeship. In enters dissipated hero, Jay Truitt, notorious womanizer of dubious sobriety, who makes a pact with Ursula: they will pretend an engagement, making her more sought-after and attractive to Hugo’s family, Jay will teach Ursula society’s ways and, in turn, he will escape his family’s strictures and travel to Europe, where he can quietly be as useless as he’s been and feels.
I adored Ursula, who, like me, doesn’t suffer fools well or easily, and I loved Jay, older but not wiser, charming, vulnerable, weak, and oh-so-interesting. They were complex, compelling, and perfectly compatible. They were outside the pale, with families who loved, but didn’t quite understand them, of questionable reputations. Ursula is distinguished by her Jewishness: ” … a four-time deviant. Her Jewishness, her wealth, her near-aggressive beauty, and her charm – or lack thereof – made her almost hopeless.” Jay is set apart by his addiction: “Two years he’d held himself together, but the moment he returned home a single craving ensorcelled his senses – too many people, too many rules, too many memories.” Ursula and Jay also share integrity, the ability to give and receive affection, and a strong protective streak, especially Ursula, who, despite her youth and inexperience, rescues her family, her friend, and Jay.
When Grossman’s novel opens and Jay and Ursula have made their pact, the narrative is peppered with witty repartee, especially from Ursula. Jay and Ursula reminded me of Chase’s Rupert and Daphne in Mr. Impossible, Jay being charm and not-much-by-way-of-brains and Ursula a brainiac of the first order. Their initial exchanges are a hoot:
There was gossip about him, and not the good kind. She frowned. Something about him being a drunkard? …
“So, a dullard, not a drunkard, and libertine to boot. I’m not sure if that’s an improvement.”
“Have you been conversing with my father?” …
“What do you want to do?” She studied him. What did this man enjoy? Besides the obvious?
“I don’t know. I’ve never really thought about it.” He shrugged, still staring out over the party. “Travel? I like meeting people.”
“And finding ways to remove their clothing.”
Despite Ursula and Jay’s banter, they have more in common than their initial opposites-convenience pact suggests. Jay and Ursula share shame: he because he disappointed his family and remains a craving, sweaty, craven addict and Ursula because she can’t get any of the social niceties right. Their initial incompatibility soon turns to a deep sympathy and Grossman does a great job of showing how two people grow in respect and affection.
But her narrative struggles under too-much-ness. It veers out-of-control from what starts out as comedic and turns into the torments of hell for Jay and an overly sentimental and dramatic family reckoning for Ursula. In a nutshell, I think Grossman’s a romance writer to watch (and I’ll follow her to the next book), but in Appetites and Vices, she isn’t quite able to steer the ship. She is a writer not quite in control of her ample material.
On the other hand, who can resist the depth and charm of passages such as these:
“Is there a difference? Between vices and appetites, I mean?” And her mouth, her perfect plump, pouty lips – even eating an apple. She’d be the death of him one of these days.
“Well – ” Jay pushed back his hair with his palm. “I suppose it comes down to control, order versus disorder. With a vice, you’ve lost all semblance of control. You crave, and you need to have what you desire, no matter the consequences. With a mere appetite, you indulge and enjoy, but if the subject was not ideal, you could pass. You aren’t filling an empty hole.”
The beauty of Grossman’s magnificent conclusion, in contrast to her saggy middle, is the notion of enough. Jay and Ursula, though there is pain and setback, find that emptiness can be filled by sharing love, through the body, heart, and spirit. When the other is enough, complete, perfect:
“No one had ever smiled at him like that, satisfied with just him.”
And as Jay says to Ursula, “I want you because you’re you and that’s all. You don’t need to be or do anything else. That’s enough. You’re enough … ” For this reader, it may not have been perfect, but Grossman’s Appetites and Vices was enough: every imperfect, original, compelling word of it. With Ms Austen, we say that Appetites and Vices is evidence of “a mind lively and at ease,” Emma.
Felicia Grossman’s Appetites and Vices is published by Carina Press. It was released on February 18th and may be found at your preferred vendors. I received an e-ARC from Carina Press, via Netgalley.
January 9, 2019
Don’t get me wrong—I adore tons of historical romances but I can honestly say that Ms. Grossman’s debut APPETITES AND VICES is in a class by itself. I mean, American setting (not London!), Philadelphia (not New York!), AND a Jewish protagonist who wouldn’t know how to simper if her life depended on it? Well…consider this reader intrigued and hopeful before I even cracked it open.
And boy, it didn’t disappoint. Ursula Nunes isn’t going to sit back and let life happen to her—she’s going to fight for her happily ever after. Though it is obvious from the get go that clammy-handed Hugo isn’t nearly strong enough to complement her (get some talc, buddy!). In walks Jay Truitt, the mid-Atlantic’s sexy bad boy whose last wish is to get entangled with anyone. Except he’s as charmed by Ursula as the rest of us and ready to be swayed into a plot to give them both what they (foolishly) think is the outcome they both desire.
A whirlwind faux romance (love that trope!) plus an indulgent father who allows Ursula to make her own mistakes without getting in the way plus a bunch of mean girls (who end up having slightly redemptive arcs and aren’t caricatures because let’s face it—Ursula has been pretty obnoxious to them in the past) plus a close knit Jewish community that defines Urs to Philly society, yet doesn’t quite allow her to be part of equals one heck of a brilliant story.
Since I can’t quite remember the distributive property of math, let me mention the steamy sexy bits which only multiply the deliciousness of this story better than I thought it could possibly be! (Ms. Grossman could be a dear and include an ornamental fan with the book because I sure needed one!)
I won’t include spoilers other than this hard won HEA is both hopeful and realistic. I walked around with a grin when it was over because there’s a teaser for the next book in the series at the end.
Swoons all around and bravo on such a stunning debut. You have earned yourself a massive admirer! I pre-ordered it for friends already.
And boy, it didn’t disappoint. Ursula Nunes isn’t going to sit back and let life happen to her—she’s going to fight for her happily ever after. Though it is obvious from the get go that clammy-handed Hugo isn’t nearly strong enough to complement her (get some talc, buddy!). In walks Jay Truitt, the mid-Atlantic’s sexy bad boy whose last wish is to get entangled with anyone. Except he’s as charmed by Ursula as the rest of us and ready to be swayed into a plot to give them both what they (foolishly) think is the outcome they both desire.
A whirlwind faux romance (love that trope!) plus an indulgent father who allows Ursula to make her own mistakes without getting in the way plus a bunch of mean girls (who end up having slightly redemptive arcs and aren’t caricatures because let’s face it—Ursula has been pretty obnoxious to them in the past) plus a close knit Jewish community that defines Urs to Philly society, yet doesn’t quite allow her to be part of equals one heck of a brilliant story.
Since I can’t quite remember the distributive property of math, let me mention the steamy sexy bits which only multiply the deliciousness of this story better than I thought it could possibly be! (Ms. Grossman could be a dear and include an ornamental fan with the book because I sure needed one!)
I won’t include spoilers other than this hard won HEA is both hopeful and realistic. I walked around with a grin when it was over because there’s a teaser for the next book in the series at the end.
Swoons all around and bravo on such a stunning debut. You have earned yourself a massive admirer! I pre-ordered it for friends already.
January 28, 2019
I was eager to read this as it’s the first historical romance I’ve read with a Jewish main character, and I’m so glad I picked it up because I loved the whole novel!
Read the full review on my blog!
Read the full review on my blog!
August 23, 2019
I’m so excited to feature this week’s smashingly brilliant historical romance with a Jewish heroine and a smolderingly sexy bad boy hero. Appetites & Vices, by Felicia Grossman—released by Carina Press—as my lovers’ holiday review! It’s a treat and a half, to say the least. It’s also the first in a series, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!
This little gem happens to be the first historical book I’d ever read that truly piqued my interest. I was fortunate enough to beta read for Ms. Grossman—both for this, and for the next book in the series entitled Dalliances & Devotions, set to be released in September! I positively gobbled them both up. Ms. Grossman managed the impossible by drawing my non-historical reading self into a love and obsession with her characters!
Ursula Nunes might very well be one of my favorite—and if nothing else, the feistiest!—heroine I’ve had the pleasure of reading in quite some time. Her voice is so distinct, and her character so vivid, I was left blinking big ol’ heart eyes. And that’s nothing on what Jay Truitt did to me. Holy guacamole, folks. This stud is Hot with a capital “H.” Ms. Grossman manages to draw such realism and beauty into her characters, that I assure you’ll be walking away just as grinning-like-crazy as I was.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romances, but also to anyone who might not think they’re a historical fan and is willing to give it a one-off shot at proving themselves wrong. Because, speaking from experience, Ms. Grossman—and her cast of delightful characters—will win you over. Of that, I have no doubt!
This little gem happens to be the first historical book I’d ever read that truly piqued my interest. I was fortunate enough to beta read for Ms. Grossman—both for this, and for the next book in the series entitled Dalliances & Devotions, set to be released in September! I positively gobbled them both up. Ms. Grossman managed the impossible by drawing my non-historical reading self into a love and obsession with her characters!
Ursula Nunes might very well be one of my favorite—and if nothing else, the feistiest!—heroine I’ve had the pleasure of reading in quite some time. Her voice is so distinct, and her character so vivid, I was left blinking big ol’ heart eyes. And that’s nothing on what Jay Truitt did to me. Holy guacamole, folks. This stud is Hot with a capital “H.” Ms. Grossman manages to draw such realism and beauty into her characters, that I assure you’ll be walking away just as grinning-like-crazy as I was.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romances, but also to anyone who might not think they’re a historical fan and is willing to give it a one-off shot at proving themselves wrong. Because, speaking from experience, Ms. Grossman—and her cast of delightful characters—will win you over. Of that, I have no doubt!
December 20, 2018
Really enjoyed this historical romance. Ursula is a strong, vibrant woman who speaks her mind and goes after what she wants. She plots to marry her best friend Hugo to gain the respect of a society that discriminates against her religion and her sordid past. Jay happens to overhear her proposal to Hugo and offers to help convince his family to accept her by accompanying her to social events.
Their interactions become provocative and the banter funny and intriguing. Jay begins to appreciate all the facets of Ursulas personality and teaches her to work the crowd without letting them get a rise out of her. She in turn teaches him to let of the past and find worth in himself.
Loved both characters and their strong personalities. The only thing that I had issues with was on how much time both spent wallowing in their unworthiness. Both struggle to find acceptance within their circle but they spend too much time focused on how inept they are. I'm glad they both find the strength to face their demons and love each other in the end.
Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Their interactions become provocative and the banter funny and intriguing. Jay begins to appreciate all the facets of Ursulas personality and teaches her to work the crowd without letting them get a rise out of her. She in turn teaches him to let of the past and find worth in himself.
Loved both characters and their strong personalities. The only thing that I had issues with was on how much time both spent wallowing in their unworthiness. Both struggle to find acceptance within their circle but they spend too much time focused on how inept they are. I'm glad they both find the strength to face their demons and love each other in the end.
Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2018
Felicia Grossman's debut is a strong one. My minor quibbles-- the reader is immediately thrown off the deep end in to the fake-betrothal without very much context, and some of the dialogue seemed anachronistic-- pale in comparison to the strength of the story. Jay and Felicia are both-- not transformed, really, but definitely refined, over the course of the story. Their growth (and the growth of their relationship) is incremental and believable and lovely to watch. Issues of prejudice and addiction are handled deftly, and really, the characters are just enjoyable-- even the awful ones are enjoyable to hate. I especially love Jay's mom-- even though she appears only briefly in the book. I will definitely read further books in this series.
March 20, 2019
I should re-read this someday because I read it in fits and starts, but it gave me enough moments of pure emotion that I'm going with five stars.
That said, it did fall into the "too modern" trap a lot. Soooo much talk about condoms and a lot of modern sexual attitudes in general.
But I was into the fake engagement that her father knew about it and that she wasn't in love/thought she was in love with the guy she was trying to get it. All of that worked very well for me.
(But I don't know if I want to read the next one? I don't want to jump ahead yet!)
That said, it did fall into the "too modern" trap a lot. Soooo much talk about condoms and a lot of modern sexual attitudes in general.
But I was into the fake engagement that her father knew about it and that she wasn't in love/thought she was in love with the guy she was trying to get it. All of that worked very well for me.
(But I don't know if I want to read the next one? I don't want to jump ahead yet!)
February 19, 2019
Loved this book and the world building. So sweet and romantic but sexy too.
Ursula and Jay are lovable, relatable characters and had great chemistry. Ursula’s love of sweets and food - my spirit lady.
Jay- swoon worthy!
Can’t wait to read more from the author.
Ursula and Jay are lovable, relatable characters and had great chemistry. Ursula’s love of sweets and food - my spirit lady.
Jay- swoon worthy!
Can’t wait to read more from the author.
December 18, 2024
Ursula Nunes and John Thaddeus "J.T." "Jay" Truitt fake a betrothal so Jay can escape his parents and Ursula can marry her childhood best friend Hugo. The power of fake engagements compels them into emotional confessions, oral sex, and love!
1. Loved the non-traditional setting (early 19th century America!)!
2. Ursula was an interesting heroine who struggled with "fitting in"—failing at conversation and the rules of society and all that stuff. It was perhaps a bit to modern-lensed up, but still resonated with me.
3. Jay's journey was perhaps not as well developed, but his struggle with addiction and his place and role in the world was more engaging then other Traditional Hero Man Pain!
4. However. I really, really bounced off the writing in this. It's pretty uneven and jostley, jumping between topics and threads and trains of thought in a way that may be "realistic" but just made it hard to follow. In addition, some of the character's "ticks" end up reading as super over the top and ridiculous: Jay strokes his stash nonstop and Ursula stuffs food into her face nearly every chapter (literally the adjective used in the book). And there's an element of hysteria to emotional reactions that read as farcical and silly, not sincere or intentional.
Overall, not a super pleasant reading experience.
1. Loved the non-traditional setting (early 19th century America!)!
2. Ursula was an interesting heroine who struggled with "fitting in"—failing at conversation and the rules of society and all that stuff. It was perhaps a bit to modern-lensed up, but still resonated with me.
3. Jay's journey was perhaps not as well developed, but his struggle with addiction and his place and role in the world was more engaging then other Traditional Hero Man Pain!
4. However. I really, really bounced off the writing in this. It's pretty uneven and jostley, jumping between topics and threads and trains of thought in a way that may be "realistic" but just made it hard to follow. In addition, some of the character's "ticks" end up reading as super over the top and ridiculous: Jay strokes his stash nonstop and Ursula stuffs food into her face nearly every chapter (literally the adjective used in the book). And there's an element of hysteria to emotional reactions that read as farcical and silly, not sincere or intentional.
Overall, not a super pleasant reading experience.
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