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Before the Season Ends
The Regency in England! This period boasted Jane Austen and Lord Byron. High society, the gentry, the working classes--they all knew their place. From coaches and curricles to Almack's, from lorgnettes and quizzing glasses to Drury Lane and Pall Mall, it's all here, from chambermaids to the Prince Regent himself! Add Miss Ariana Forsythe to the intoxicating mix of fun and inspiration, and what do you have? The first Christian Regency on the market today! Welcome to this delightful world, and prepare to fall in love with Ariana and her cohorts. From her home in the village of Chesterton to the very ballroom of Carlton House, you will follow her journey of faith--and adventure-- to its heartwarming conclusion.
338 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
270 people are currently reading
1381 people want to read
About the author
Linore Rose Burkard
32 books345 followersLinore Rose Burkard ( L.R.Burkard) is a serious watcher of period films, a Janeite, and hopeless romantic. An award winning author best known for Inspirational Regency Romance, her first novel (Before the Season Ends) opened the genre for the CBA. Besides historical romance, Linore writes contemporary suspense (The Pulse Effex Series, as L.R. Burkard), contemporary romance, and romantic short stories. Linore has a magna cum laude English Lit. degree from CUNY which she earned while taking herself far too seriously. She now resides in Ohio with her husband and family, where she turns her youthful angst into character or humor-driven plots.
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Linore is Vice President of the Dayton Christian Scribes, and a Regional Director of CAN, Christian Authors Network. Her biggest guilty pleasure aside from ice cream is cheering the NY Mets. Her husband knows how they're doing from the other side of the house! (It's true what they say, "You can take the girl out of New York, but....." )
Sign up for Linore's newsletter to get updates on new books, works in progress, giveaways, special sales, and more. You'll receive a free Regency "flash fiction" story, Sign up at HERE
Linore is Vice President of the Dayton Christian Scribes, and a Regional Director of CAN, Christian Authors Network. Her biggest guilty pleasure aside from ice cream is cheering the NY Mets. Her husband knows how they're doing from the other side of the house! (It's true what they say, "You can take the girl out of New York, but....." )
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
June 21, 2009
Hmmm, perhaps I didn't read the same book that everyone else who reviewed Before the Season Ends read, because I certainly did not come away with the same fawning impression that the others apparently did. I'm not quite sure why everyone who read this book and then subsequently reviewed it has given it high marks and glowing reviews. Before the Season Ends is not a four or five star book. To compare Burkard's writing style and language use to Jane Austen's is just laughable. To even imagine putting Before the Season Ends on the same level as any of Austen's works is ludicrous.
Having said all of that, Before the Seasons Ends is not a terrible book and I didn't hate it. It's a cute book about a Christian girl in Regency-era England and her entrance into society. That's pretty much it, nothing profound or heart-wrenching, just a cutesy story. The characters were fairly cartoonish, the dialogue was stilted at times, and after a while, the book became tiresome. I grew sick of Burkard's incessant use of the terms, "Paragon," and "gel;" those terms popped up so frequently, I felt as though they were only added to make the book seem more "authentic," when in fact their use had the opposite affect. It was also odd and annoying that in the middle of certain tragic scenes, Burkard would suddenly give a detailed description of what Ariana was wearing. For example, after Ariana hears the story that Mr. Mornay has fathered a child and abandoned it and the mother, she goes to visit his Aunt Roylefrost, but on the way, Burkard takes the time to tell us about Ariana's "pale blue walking gown," including minute details unnecessary for the point of the story (p. 311).
Another issue I have with this book is the strange and often contradictory Christian message Burkard weaves into the story. At the beginning of the story Ariana is blindly convinced that she has been called by God to marry a man of the cloth. Mr. Hathaway, the local rector, is decades older than Ariana, and her parents are set against her marrying this much older man. Ariana is so sure of God's calling that she is on the verge of accepting this man's suit, until her father intervenes and the supposed man of the cloth, Mr. Hathaway, starts a fistfight with her father. That's right. The rector, the pastor, the man of the cloth, Mr. Hathaway, started a fistfight with Ariana's father. How very Christian of him.
Ariana is sent off to London to stay with her wealthy aunt for the society season. She is concerned that she will be persuaded to forget her calling to marry a man of the cloth, but she is sure that she will resist all attempts of her aunt to find her a society man to wed. Needless to say, Ariana does forget her "calling" to marry a man of the cloth and she becomes bethrothed to a society man. Hmm.
Ariana falls in love with Mr. Mornay only to decide that she cannot marry him because she suddenly remembers her conviction that she cannot marry someone who is not a true believer. The basis of this conviction coming from a verse in 2 Corinthians, chapter six, verse fourteen: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers. An admiral conviction, but it causes such strife for Ariana it just becomes silly when she continues to refuse Mr. Mornay's and Mrs. Bentley's attempts to set a wedding date. Silly because Ariana is completely willing to overlook Mr. Mornay's other failings. How about the time Ariana encounters him while he's three sheets to the wind? Or the time when Mr. Mornay conceals himself behind some draperies in the parlour while Ariana conducts what she thinks is a private conversation with her aunt? Or when Ariana hears the story that Mr. Mornay has fathered a child out of wedlock and abandoned the mother and child? Oh, wait, that story turned out to be false, except for the fact that if Mr. Mornay himself believed that he fathered a child it would mean that he would have had to have been in the position of physically performing the act that would bring about a child. So, Mr. Mornay's drunkeness, lying, subterfuge, and carnal acts can all be overlooked by Ariana, but not the fact that he is not a "true" believer, which in this book means being a Methodist. Mr. Mornay admits to a belief in God, but that, as we know, is not good enough. It is not enough to simply acknowledge His existence, one has to be a stellar Christian, exactly like Ariana is.
This convoluted Christian message is part of what turned me off of this book. Even another character, Mr. O'Brien, who is set up as being a man strong in faith is eventually turned into a cartoon character when Burkard writes about his repeated attempts to win Ariana's attentions and convince her to turn away from Mornay's affections.
This isn't a terrible book, but it's not as awesome as every other reviewer on this site has made it out to be.
Having said all of that, Before the Seasons Ends is not a terrible book and I didn't hate it. It's a cute book about a Christian girl in Regency-era England and her entrance into society. That's pretty much it, nothing profound or heart-wrenching, just a cutesy story. The characters were fairly cartoonish, the dialogue was stilted at times, and after a while, the book became tiresome. I grew sick of Burkard's incessant use of the terms, "Paragon," and "gel;" those terms popped up so frequently, I felt as though they were only added to make the book seem more "authentic," when in fact their use had the opposite affect. It was also odd and annoying that in the middle of certain tragic scenes, Burkard would suddenly give a detailed description of what Ariana was wearing. For example, after Ariana hears the story that Mr. Mornay has fathered a child and abandoned it and the mother, she goes to visit his Aunt Roylefrost, but on the way, Burkard takes the time to tell us about Ariana's "pale blue walking gown," including minute details unnecessary for the point of the story (p. 311).
Another issue I have with this book is the strange and often contradictory Christian message Burkard weaves into the story. At the beginning of the story Ariana is blindly convinced that she has been called by God to marry a man of the cloth. Mr. Hathaway, the local rector, is decades older than Ariana, and her parents are set against her marrying this much older man. Ariana is so sure of God's calling that she is on the verge of accepting this man's suit, until her father intervenes and the supposed man of the cloth, Mr. Hathaway, starts a fistfight with her father. That's right. The rector, the pastor, the man of the cloth, Mr. Hathaway, started a fistfight with Ariana's father. How very Christian of him.
Ariana is sent off to London to stay with her wealthy aunt for the society season. She is concerned that she will be persuaded to forget her calling to marry a man of the cloth, but she is sure that she will resist all attempts of her aunt to find her a society man to wed. Needless to say, Ariana does forget her "calling" to marry a man of the cloth and she becomes bethrothed to a society man. Hmm.
Ariana falls in love with Mr. Mornay only to decide that she cannot marry him because she suddenly remembers her conviction that she cannot marry someone who is not a true believer. The basis of this conviction coming from a verse in 2 Corinthians, chapter six, verse fourteen: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers. An admiral conviction, but it causes such strife for Ariana it just becomes silly when she continues to refuse Mr. Mornay's and Mrs. Bentley's attempts to set a wedding date. Silly because Ariana is completely willing to overlook Mr. Mornay's other failings. How about the time Ariana encounters him while he's three sheets to the wind? Or the time when Mr. Mornay conceals himself behind some draperies in the parlour while Ariana conducts what she thinks is a private conversation with her aunt? Or when Ariana hears the story that Mr. Mornay has fathered a child out of wedlock and abandoned the mother and child? Oh, wait, that story turned out to be false, except for the fact that if Mr. Mornay himself believed that he fathered a child it would mean that he would have had to have been in the position of physically performing the act that would bring about a child. So, Mr. Mornay's drunkeness, lying, subterfuge, and carnal acts can all be overlooked by Ariana, but not the fact that he is not a "true" believer, which in this book means being a Methodist. Mr. Mornay admits to a belief in God, but that, as we know, is not good enough. It is not enough to simply acknowledge His existence, one has to be a stellar Christian, exactly like Ariana is.
This convoluted Christian message is part of what turned me off of this book. Even another character, Mr. O'Brien, who is set up as being a man strong in faith is eventually turned into a cartoon character when Burkard writes about his repeated attempts to win Ariana's attentions and convince her to turn away from Mornay's affections.
This isn't a terrible book, but it's not as awesome as every other reviewer on this site has made it out to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2017
***This is an edited version of a my 2010 Amazon review, which I decided didn't make much sense!***
In Linore Rose Burkard's Before the Season Ends, there were some similarities to Pride and Prejudice. I particularly like how the author explained some of the customs and there was a glossary of terms at the back to define the words of the period. All these years later, I still remember the cute meet scenario between the hero and the heroine. This is definitely a Christian historical romance.
In Linore Rose Burkard's Before the Season Ends, there were some similarities to Pride and Prejudice. I particularly like how the author explained some of the customs and there was a glossary of terms at the back to define the words of the period. All these years later, I still remember the cute meet scenario between the hero and the heroine. This is definitely a Christian historical romance.
May 24, 2013
*Waring Spoilers Ahead*
Before the Season Ends was an enjoyable read and it got much better as it went on but then it well, went downhill and made me mad.
I stayed up into the wee hours finishing this book, slept on it and now that I am awake again, I am still disappointed. This book held my attention and interest for so long and then I wanted to yell at it.
Ariana is sent to stay in London with her Aunt, for the season. Her Aunt being overly wealthy is a childless widow who wants to present her niece to society. This will benefit the three parties involved, her aunt's invitations are not as plentiful as they used to be, this will get her invited to more of the Tons events. Ariana will be able to intermingle with the best of society, perhaps find a husband and see some of the sites of London she has hoped to visit. For her parents they want to remove her from the ageing rector that has set his sights on her and her him, thinking it must be her lot in life.
At her first event, a picnic she meets Mr. Mr. Mornay. Mr. Mornay is a bachelor, who can make you or ruin you in the eyes of the Ton, he is very handsome and rich. Due to certain events that take place in the story, Ariana and Mr. Mornay are to spend much time together. Which is the good part for me in this book, the better part.
Now here comes my frustration, she loves him, yet she is unsure as to marry him. Why? Because he isn't a "true believer". So she sends him to stay with her father so he can learn to become one. I'm sorry but that is ridiculous. I understand that this is Christian fiction, I've read a nice bit of this genre lately, and some of them a relationship won't work until they started going to church but this book, this book got me frustrated.
I see a lot of great reviews regarding this novel, and it was great book up until I wanted to yell and glare. Because of these frustrations I CAN NOT give it as high a rating as I had thought I would end up giving it.
So my final rating will have to be 2.5 stars.
Before the Season Ends was an enjoyable read and it got much better as it went on but then it well, went downhill and made me mad.
I stayed up into the wee hours finishing this book, slept on it and now that I am awake again, I am still disappointed. This book held my attention and interest for so long and then I wanted to yell at it.
Ariana is sent to stay in London with her Aunt, for the season. Her Aunt being overly wealthy is a childless widow who wants to present her niece to society. This will benefit the three parties involved, her aunt's invitations are not as plentiful as they used to be, this will get her invited to more of the Tons events. Ariana will be able to intermingle with the best of society, perhaps find a husband and see some of the sites of London she has hoped to visit. For her parents they want to remove her from the ageing rector that has set his sights on her and her him, thinking it must be her lot in life.
At her first event, a picnic she meets Mr. Mr. Mornay. Mr. Mornay is a bachelor, who can make you or ruin you in the eyes of the Ton, he is very handsome and rich. Due to certain events that take place in the story, Ariana and Mr. Mornay are to spend much time together. Which is the good part for me in this book, the better part.
Now here comes my frustration, she loves him, yet she is unsure as to marry him. Why? Because he isn't a "true believer". So she sends him to stay with her father so he can learn to become one. I'm sorry but that is ridiculous. I understand that this is Christian fiction, I've read a nice bit of this genre lately, and some of them a relationship won't work until they started going to church but this book, this book got me frustrated.
I see a lot of great reviews regarding this novel, and it was great book up until I wanted to yell and glare. Because of these frustrations I CAN NOT give it as high a rating as I had thought I would end up giving it.
So my final rating will have to be 2.5 stars.
February 25, 2014
I SO enjoyed this first book in the Forsythe trilogy, and am SO looking forward to book 2!
It's rare to find Christian regency novels, and sometimes -when you do- the spiritual aspects of the story seem shallow or nonexistent. Linore Burkard had a great way of bringing Christ into her story without being shallow, but also without seeming "preachy". I really appreciated that the Gospel was given clearly, and leaving no doubts that Burkard believes what she is writing.
I really enjoyed the style of writing- especially when it came to the points of view in narration. I get frustrated when two (or more) characters are having a conversation but you only know whats going on in the thoughts of one, and so the other characters aren't easy to read or understand; Linore writes in a way that she can- in the narration- jump from one persons thoughts/perspective to anothers without the reader getting confused, and it's nice to have all the facts and know what each character is thinking and then, if the other characters are confused, you can rest assured and know a bit beforehand what to expect from each. ;) This, written by some people, could be annoying or predictable, and Burkard is the first author I've read where this ability really stood out to me. Well done. :)
The plot was great! It moved along quickly yet coherently, and it never lagged. There wasn't too much "extra" narration around conversations and scenes, and everything ran along smoothly.
The added mystery towards the end (hinted at throughout, but addressed later on), though rather short-lived, added to the story well, and I liked it not being drawn out. :)
Ariana's Philip's aunts' were both really great characters! And I also loved Lavinia- Ariana's best friend. Mr Pellham was pretty awesome and threw in some great laughs.
The book was super clean- once Ariana is betrothed there's quite a few mentions of kissing upon greeting/farewell, but these were never dwelt on or narrated ;)- and I highly recommend to all regency/Jane Austen/Georgette Heyer fans! There was intrigue, mystery, romance, comedy, misunderstandings, faith, parties, tree climbing dilemmas, and a sweet ending due to two loving and protecting fathers- earthly, and Heavenly! :)
It's rare to find Christian regency novels, and sometimes -when you do- the spiritual aspects of the story seem shallow or nonexistent. Linore Burkard had a great way of bringing Christ into her story without being shallow, but also without seeming "preachy". I really appreciated that the Gospel was given clearly, and leaving no doubts that Burkard believes what she is writing.
I really enjoyed the style of writing- especially when it came to the points of view in narration. I get frustrated when two (or more) characters are having a conversation but you only know whats going on in the thoughts of one, and so the other characters aren't easy to read or understand; Linore writes in a way that she can- in the narration- jump from one persons thoughts/perspective to anothers without the reader getting confused, and it's nice to have all the facts and know what each character is thinking and then, if the other characters are confused, you can rest assured and know a bit beforehand what to expect from each. ;) This, written by some people, could be annoying or predictable, and Burkard is the first author I've read where this ability really stood out to me. Well done. :)
The plot was great! It moved along quickly yet coherently, and it never lagged. There wasn't too much "extra" narration around conversations and scenes, and everything ran along smoothly.
The added mystery towards the end (hinted at throughout, but addressed later on), though rather short-lived, added to the story well, and I liked it not being drawn out. :)
Ariana's Philip's aunts' were both really great characters! And I also loved Lavinia- Ariana's best friend. Mr Pellham was pretty awesome and threw in some great laughs.
The book was super clean- once Ariana is betrothed there's quite a few mentions of kissing upon greeting/farewell, but these were never dwelt on or narrated ;)- and I highly recommend to all regency/Jane Austen/Georgette Heyer fans! There was intrigue, mystery, romance, comedy, misunderstandings, faith, parties, tree climbing dilemmas, and a sweet ending due to two loving and protecting fathers- earthly, and Heavenly! :)
March 24, 2019
I enjoyed the Regency setting, especially comparing Ariana's small town with the elitist circle in London, even the party given by the Prince Regent himself. It all seemed authentic. It was obviously very well-researched.
I must say, however, that overall I was disappointed in this book. With such lovely endorsements, I was expecting something a little more polished and deep. While flavors of Jane Austen did a few times whisper to my reading tastebuds, they were too mild and subtle, and I wished for a bolder flavor of Austen since she is my favorite author of all time.
Burkard overused one word that Austen used, which began to annoy me every time Aunt Bentley used it. “Gel,” a special pronunciation of “gal,” was only used by Austen by one character, Mr. Darcy's formidable aunt, Mrs. Catherine de Bourgh. She used it in derision of Elizabeth Bennett, whom she deemed inferior. I was struck with this negative connotation every time Ariana's aunt, Mrs. Bentley, used it with reference to Ariana.
There were also several circumstances I felt weren't realistic. We're introduced to Ariana as a hard-headed, somewhat man-crazy girl with a strong faith, strong enough to only entertain suitors who were members of the clergy. However, a change in scenery, merely moving from her small town to stay with her aunt in London, is enough to help her forget her former conviction to marry in the church.
And the time spent detailing all the fine clothes of the upper elite seemed like the author just wanted to showcase all the research she did into the Regency era, which is understandable, but sometimes I felt it went too far for Ariana's supposedly more tomboyish tendencies (climbing trees, racing friends, jumping into a carriage without assistance). The research took too much attention away from the story at times. This quote summarizes Ariana's apparently newfound comfort in clothes: “A girl could hardly remain gloomy when sporting a beautiful new evening dress.” And the very last four paragraphs of the last chapter made me cringe and roll my eyes when I realized the entire story was ending with remarks about Ariana's wardrobe. This is a very shallow ending to a story that was interested in the character's eternal destinies.
Also, the psychic distance was never clear for me, with a bit of head-hopping between her parents' thoughts and feelings in the first three chapters (never to be heard from again until the very last chapter) to bouncing between Ariana's and Mornay's observations within the same chapter.
About Mornay: his character was so complicated that I was never sure if I liked him or not. Perhaps it was only gossip that tarnished his reputation as a bit of a ladies' man, though arrogant and antisocial, and maybe his character never really was. But this is the kind of “hero” I distrust, and I never was sure when he was being sincere. Except for his good looks, I'm not sure I understand how Ariana could have fallen for him so hard knowing he was not a fellow believer. Are looks really that important to a tomboy, one who is supposedly so convicted about marrying into the church?
About the minor characters, though Mrs. Bentley was definitely not my favorite character, she was most intriguing (introduced as Aunt Bentley but called Mrs. Bentley through the rest of the book was confusing). Her complicated relationship with Mr. Pellham also added interest. But I wished there was less about Mr. O'Brien and more about Ariana's friend, Lavinia. I hope we hear more from her in the rest of the trilogy.
Though there were several humorous lines, some of them made me roll my eyes. I think overall that the quality of writing was good. It just wasn't my favorite.
Favorite quotes:
“...the art of keeping up a lively banter, Ariana found, was both fun and challenging. She could not always hold her own, but it seemed that Mr. Mornay's favour had preceded her, and if she momentarily faltered for a smart reply, she was kindly helped along by various hosts or hostesses. Ariana discovered, too, that silence, accompanied by a knowing look, could be response enough to satisfy a company.”
I must say, however, that overall I was disappointed in this book. With such lovely endorsements, I was expecting something a little more polished and deep. While flavors of Jane Austen did a few times whisper to my reading tastebuds, they were too mild and subtle, and I wished for a bolder flavor of Austen since she is my favorite author of all time.
Burkard overused one word that Austen used, which began to annoy me every time Aunt Bentley used it. “Gel,” a special pronunciation of “gal,” was only used by Austen by one character, Mr. Darcy's formidable aunt, Mrs. Catherine de Bourgh. She used it in derision of Elizabeth Bennett, whom she deemed inferior. I was struck with this negative connotation every time Ariana's aunt, Mrs. Bentley, used it with reference to Ariana.
There were also several circumstances I felt weren't realistic. We're introduced to Ariana as a hard-headed, somewhat man-crazy girl with a strong faith, strong enough to only entertain suitors who were members of the clergy. However, a change in scenery, merely moving from her small town to stay with her aunt in London, is enough to help her forget her former conviction to marry in the church.
And the time spent detailing all the fine clothes of the upper elite seemed like the author just wanted to showcase all the research she did into the Regency era, which is understandable, but sometimes I felt it went too far for Ariana's supposedly more tomboyish tendencies (climbing trees, racing friends, jumping into a carriage without assistance). The research took too much attention away from the story at times. This quote summarizes Ariana's apparently newfound comfort in clothes: “A girl could hardly remain gloomy when sporting a beautiful new evening dress.” And the very last four paragraphs of the last chapter made me cringe and roll my eyes when I realized the entire story was ending with remarks about Ariana's wardrobe. This is a very shallow ending to a story that was interested in the character's eternal destinies.
Also, the psychic distance was never clear for me, with a bit of head-hopping between her parents' thoughts and feelings in the first three chapters (never to be heard from again until the very last chapter) to bouncing between Ariana's and Mornay's observations within the same chapter.
About Mornay: his character was so complicated that I was never sure if I liked him or not. Perhaps it was only gossip that tarnished his reputation as a bit of a ladies' man, though arrogant and antisocial, and maybe his character never really was. But this is the kind of “hero” I distrust, and I never was sure when he was being sincere. Except for his good looks, I'm not sure I understand how Ariana could have fallen for him so hard knowing he was not a fellow believer. Are looks really that important to a tomboy, one who is supposedly so convicted about marrying into the church?
About the minor characters, though Mrs. Bentley was definitely not my favorite character, she was most intriguing (introduced as Aunt Bentley but called Mrs. Bentley through the rest of the book was confusing). Her complicated relationship with Mr. Pellham also added interest. But I wished there was less about Mr. O'Brien and more about Ariana's friend, Lavinia. I hope we hear more from her in the rest of the trilogy.
Though there were several humorous lines, some of them made me roll my eyes. I think overall that the quality of writing was good. It just wasn't my favorite.
Favorite quotes:
“...the art of keeping up a lively banter, Ariana found, was both fun and challenging. She could not always hold her own, but it seemed that Mr. Mornay's favour had preceded her, and if she momentarily faltered for a smart reply, she was kindly helped along by various hosts or hostesses. Ariana discovered, too, that silence, accompanied by a knowing look, could be response enough to satisfy a company.”
November 30, 2011
This book is advertised as a Christian Regency Romance for the Jane Austen soul. The author mistakenly assumes that a "Jane Austen soul" knows next to nothing about Regency England. She makes her characters ignorant of things that were common knowledge at the time in order to teach the reader things that a *true* "Jane Austen Soul" would know. For Example: In Chapter 3, the main character's Mom is speaking with her husband and their two daughters who are out (the younger one is 19) when she says, "Indeed, the season is known as the marriage mart" Does Burkard expect us to believe that the landed gentry don't know about the London season?
In case you don't know the following terms, you can look them up in the helpful glossary...
*ball
*chamber
*corset
*curtsey
*smelling salts
Of course, there are some words that are less well known such as: pelisse; regent; reticule; and ladies maid.
All this I could probably look over, but I also didn't like the characters. They were annoying and contradictory. The Christian element was also very heavy. The heroine says that while she belongs to the Church of England, her beliefs are more similar to the Methodists. She is determined to marry only someone with the same level of faith as hers.
Here is a summary of the book.
Ariana's (age 19) "lot" in live is to marry the 60 year old Rector because he shares her faith. Her parents ship her off to her Aunt in London because they think the Rector is too old for her. She goes to a fancy garden party at the "Paragon's" estate. She then proceeds to race another girl and later climb a tree only to be rescued by the Paragon. Someone starts a scandal involving the two of them. The Paragon offers to rescue Ariana's reputation by pretending court her.
Ariana is starting to fall in love with the Paragon but he doesn't have enough faith. He is in love with her too so he proposes. She has conflicting emotions because she is in love with him but the Lord has told her not to be yoked to an unbeliever. She agrees to leave her ball to talk about marriage in the Paragon's carriage. People watch her leave and now she has to become engaged to save her reputation.
She frets over her fiance's lack of faith and declares that they are not truly betrothed because they haven't set a date. She goes to his house in the middle of the night and sees him come home drunk. The next day she tells him that she doesn't care about his drinking but she wants him to go stay with her parents for two weeks to get some faith. She does nothing herself to help him with his lack of faith.
While he's gone Ariana hears a rumor that the Paragon once got a woman pregnant and then abandoned her. She goes to his Aunt to find out if it's true. The truth is that the woman lied to try to trick him into marriage and he narrowly escaped. So now everything is ok. Ariana is fine that her fiance had sex with the woman because he didn't get her pregnant. The Paragon comes back from her parents house. He has accepted Christ and has enough faith to keep her happy.
They live happily ever after.
I would recommend it only to readers who like Christian romance with zero knowledge of Regency England.
I would categorize it as a YA novel except for the uber-christian heroine, born in the mid 1790's with very little knowledge of the times who is unconcerned by the fact that her fiance slept with another woman.
That said, I did like that the Paragon was not a rake. A popular theme to regency romances is the sweet maiden who falls for the reformed rake. Also, it's a first book from someone who is trying to fill the gap in the Christian Regency Romance niche. She's gotta get points for that. Hopefully her books get progressively better.
In case you don't know the following terms, you can look them up in the helpful glossary...
*ball
*chamber
*corset
*curtsey
*smelling salts
Of course, there are some words that are less well known such as: pelisse; regent; reticule; and ladies maid.
All this I could probably look over, but I also didn't like the characters. They were annoying and contradictory. The Christian element was also very heavy. The heroine says that while she belongs to the Church of England, her beliefs are more similar to the Methodists. She is determined to marry only someone with the same level of faith as hers.
Here is a summary of the book.
Ariana's (age 19) "lot" in live is to marry the 60 year old Rector because he shares her faith. Her parents ship her off to her Aunt in London because they think the Rector is too old for her. She goes to a fancy garden party at the "Paragon's" estate. She then proceeds to race another girl and later climb a tree only to be rescued by the Paragon. Someone starts a scandal involving the two of them. The Paragon offers to rescue Ariana's reputation by pretending court her.
Ariana is starting to fall in love with the Paragon but he doesn't have enough faith. He is in love with her too so he proposes. She has conflicting emotions because she is in love with him but the Lord has told her not to be yoked to an unbeliever. She agrees to leave her ball to talk about marriage in the Paragon's carriage. People watch her leave and now she has to become engaged to save her reputation.
She frets over her fiance's lack of faith and declares that they are not truly betrothed because they haven't set a date. She goes to his house in the middle of the night and sees him come home drunk. The next day she tells him that she doesn't care about his drinking but she wants him to go stay with her parents for two weeks to get some faith. She does nothing herself to help him with his lack of faith.
While he's gone Ariana hears a rumor that the Paragon once got a woman pregnant and then abandoned her. She goes to his Aunt to find out if it's true. The truth is that the woman lied to try to trick him into marriage and he narrowly escaped. So now everything is ok. Ariana is fine that her fiance had sex with the woman because he didn't get her pregnant. The Paragon comes back from her parents house. He has accepted Christ and has enough faith to keep her happy.
They live happily ever after.
I would recommend it only to readers who like Christian romance with zero knowledge of Regency England.
I would categorize it as a YA novel except for the uber-christian heroine, born in the mid 1790's with very little knowledge of the times who is unconcerned by the fact that her fiance slept with another woman.
That said, I did like that the Paragon was not a rake. A popular theme to regency romances is the sweet maiden who falls for the reformed rake. Also, it's a first book from someone who is trying to fill the gap in the Christian Regency Romance niche. She's gotta get points for that. Hopefully her books get progressively better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2009
I had been anticipating reading this book since I first heard of it. Being a fan of the Regency period and 1800's England in general I couldn't wait to see a Christian perspective on it. Once I got into the story I had a very hard time putting it down... but wasn't completely thrilled with it overall.
Ariana is a well-intentioned young lady spending the season in London with her aunt. Ariana lacks just enough common sense and foresight to get into some pretty funny situations which we as readers can see coming, lending the story its captivating charm. Aunt Bentley wishes to secure a profitable marriage for Ariana, even at the expense of truthfulness. In a world where fashion and high society are all the rage, will Ariana's heart remain true to God in the face of mean-spirited gossips, misleading appearances and unbelieving suitors?
Where the book let me down was mainly in the technical area. While I enjoyed reading a book that made me want to keep a dictionary nearby, her use of "authentic" terms which I have never seen in books actually written in that period was annoying. The narrator's omniscient voice bringing all different perspectives at the same time was confusing and unnecessary. I was disappointed with the scene where Ariana becomes betrothed without so much as a proposal; when the strength of the story comes from the beautifully-written romantic sequences, I felt we were cheated out of another one and that it wasn't entirely in character. I also thought several situations were not resolved or tied in as well as they could have been, most notably the dispute at the beginning of the novel that sent Ariana to London in the first place.
While it was perfectly natural with the setting and character names to recall great authors like Elizabeth Gaskell and Jane Austen, I missed the depth of personality and wide cast of memorable characters one finds in their works. The spiritual side of the story likened to Grace Livingston Hill and Martha Finley. The author that came to mind most prominently, however, is Christian young adult writer Lois Gladys Leppard and her capricious Mandy. The main characters bore quite a bit of resemblance, though Ariana could have used a bit of Mandy's stubbornness in some of the pickles she found herself in! :-)
You can tell that this book left quite an impression on me, since I usually try to keep my reviews to one paragraph. I wanted very much to like it, and it did tickle my senses while I was caught up in the story but it didn't quite leave me satisfied in the end. I do plan on checking out this author at least once more to look for positive growth and I applaud her for bringing Christian Regency stories into being. May there be many more!
Ariana is a well-intentioned young lady spending the season in London with her aunt. Ariana lacks just enough common sense and foresight to get into some pretty funny situations which we as readers can see coming, lending the story its captivating charm. Aunt Bentley wishes to secure a profitable marriage for Ariana, even at the expense of truthfulness. In a world where fashion and high society are all the rage, will Ariana's heart remain true to God in the face of mean-spirited gossips, misleading appearances and unbelieving suitors?
Where the book let me down was mainly in the technical area. While I enjoyed reading a book that made me want to keep a dictionary nearby, her use of "authentic" terms which I have never seen in books actually written in that period was annoying. The narrator's omniscient voice bringing all different perspectives at the same time was confusing and unnecessary. I was disappointed with the scene where Ariana becomes betrothed without so much as a proposal; when the strength of the story comes from the beautifully-written romantic sequences, I felt we were cheated out of another one and that it wasn't entirely in character. I also thought several situations were not resolved or tied in as well as they could have been, most notably the dispute at the beginning of the novel that sent Ariana to London in the first place.
While it was perfectly natural with the setting and character names to recall great authors like Elizabeth Gaskell and Jane Austen, I missed the depth of personality and wide cast of memorable characters one finds in their works. The spiritual side of the story likened to Grace Livingston Hill and Martha Finley. The author that came to mind most prominently, however, is Christian young adult writer Lois Gladys Leppard and her capricious Mandy. The main characters bore quite a bit of resemblance, though Ariana could have used a bit of Mandy's stubbornness in some of the pickles she found herself in! :-)
You can tell that this book left quite an impression on me, since I usually try to keep my reviews to one paragraph. I wanted very much to like it, and it did tickle my senses while I was caught up in the story but it didn't quite leave me satisfied in the end. I do plan on checking out this author at least once more to look for positive growth and I applaud her for bringing Christian Regency stories into being. May there be many more!
December 20, 2008
My Review
It was a pleasant change to read a Regency romance without a lot of sexual tension and innuendos. Burkard has the era down pat and it was easy to visualize the scenes as well as sympathize with the heroine. I also found her characteristics true to a 19 year old rather than a wishy-washy attempt to provide the character with teen emotions that weren't of the time and adult emotions that were beyond her age as so many authors do with girls of that age in different time periods.
Ariane is a determined 19 year old second daughter who has decided that her lot in life is to marry someone in the church. Her family is well educated in the meaning behind the Bible verses and she has the intelligence to engage in theoretical theology while at the same time the faith in what she believes to be correct. She knows the difference between being a real Christian and being a church Christian. Because the only church man in her village is over 60 her parents decide to send her to live with her aunt in London who has offered to sponser their oldest daughter to a London season. The aunt is not prepared for a young girl who knows her mind and isn't influenced nor really interested in the social circles and Ariane isn't prepared for an aunt whose only interest is the social life of the ton. It makes for some interesting personality clashes and character development.
Burkard has spent the last couple of chapters detailing the thoughts behind the idea that becoming a Christian and developing a Christian lifestyle has nothing to do with deeds and all to do with inviting God into your heart. She has done this in a manner true to the story and not preachy, it doesn't seem out of place at all and I really don't think that someone not schooled in the idea would find it out of place with the story.
I give this book 4 stars
It was a pleasant change to read a Regency romance without a lot of sexual tension and innuendos. Burkard has the era down pat and it was easy to visualize the scenes as well as sympathize with the heroine. I also found her characteristics true to a 19 year old rather than a wishy-washy attempt to provide the character with teen emotions that weren't of the time and adult emotions that were beyond her age as so many authors do with girls of that age in different time periods.
Ariane is a determined 19 year old second daughter who has decided that her lot in life is to marry someone in the church. Her family is well educated in the meaning behind the Bible verses and she has the intelligence to engage in theoretical theology while at the same time the faith in what she believes to be correct. She knows the difference between being a real Christian and being a church Christian. Because the only church man in her village is over 60 her parents decide to send her to live with her aunt in London who has offered to sponser their oldest daughter to a London season. The aunt is not prepared for a young girl who knows her mind and isn't influenced nor really interested in the social circles and Ariane isn't prepared for an aunt whose only interest is the social life of the ton. It makes for some interesting personality clashes and character development.
Burkard has spent the last couple of chapters detailing the thoughts behind the idea that becoming a Christian and developing a Christian lifestyle has nothing to do with deeds and all to do with inviting God into your heart. She has done this in a manner true to the story and not preachy, it doesn't seem out of place at all and I really don't think that someone not schooled in the idea would find it out of place with the story.
I give this book 4 stars
March 30, 2012
I love the Regency period and especially love the "clean" stories. This one was definitely Christian as well and almost got a little too preachy toward the end.
Ariana's aunt offered to put the eldest daughter of her brother's into society, but the eldest, Alberta, was as good as engaged, so he sent his second daughter, Ariana. I loved the ins and outs of the season and enjoyed learning a little bit more of this time period. Phillip is a great character--feared by many; impatient with debutantes; gruff, yet tender. Ariana is pretty spunky, considering her station in society. It's crazy to think that one had to act and do things a certain way to be accepted.
I really enjoyed it overall and will read the others in the series.
Ariana's aunt offered to put the eldest daughter of her brother's into society, but the eldest, Alberta, was as good as engaged, so he sent his second daughter, Ariana. I loved the ins and outs of the season and enjoyed learning a little bit more of this time period. Phillip is a great character--feared by many; impatient with debutantes; gruff, yet tender. Ariana is pretty spunky, considering her station in society. It's crazy to think that one had to act and do things a certain way to be accepted.
I really enjoyed it overall and will read the others in the series.
August 12, 2015
For the most part, I did enjoy the story. I didn't care too much for the writing style, but I like to think it was because this is the author's debut book. I think her writing will improve. So, I do believe I will go looking for the rest of the books in this series...
October 26, 2025
Please beat me up with a Bible but don’t make me sit through another page of Ariana agonizing over marrying the man she loves because he’s not as devoted a Christian as she is.
This would be an enjoyable light regency romance if it weren’t brined in religion to the point of being a devotional, not a novel. I adored Mr. Mornay, the wealthy scion of the ton who unfortunately becomes besotted with Saint Ariana. He’s handsome, witty, and kind in spite of his reputation as a curmudgeon. Ariana tortures him ceaselessly about his lack of devotion to the point where I would like to see him dress her down and walk away.
The other characters are shallow and predictable to the point of being interchangeable. I often forgot which young lady or man was talking as they were all so similar.
The overwhelming focus on religion spoiled this book for me and made it barely readable. Handled with a lighter hand it could have been an entertaining story; as it stands it was a chore to slog through the book.
This would be an enjoyable light regency romance if it weren’t brined in religion to the point of being a devotional, not a novel. I adored Mr. Mornay, the wealthy scion of the ton who unfortunately becomes besotted with Saint Ariana. He’s handsome, witty, and kind in spite of his reputation as a curmudgeon. Ariana tortures him ceaselessly about his lack of devotion to the point where I would like to see him dress her down and walk away.
The other characters are shallow and predictable to the point of being interchangeable. I often forgot which young lady or man was talking as they were all so similar.
The overwhelming focus on religion spoiled this book for me and made it barely readable. Handled with a lighter hand it could have been an entertaining story; as it stands it was a chore to slog through the book.
March 7, 2009
I've never read a book written by Jane Austen before. *Gasp* I know, it's criminal. I love regencies, however, so this story worked for me. (I'm not totally uncultured. I have watched Sense and Sensibility and other Austen stories on DVD). But since I've never read Austen I can't say how similar the writing styles are. At first the omniscient POV all the time was hard for me to follow, but then I allowed myself to be pulled into that era and all of it's vanity and the story came alive. I had difficulty putting it down once I got past the initial hump of the writing style. While it wasn't bad, it was just very different from the typical point of view purist books you see nowadays.
What hooked me was the scene in the tree. The same time Phillip Mornay fell in love I was pulled right in. I kept turning the pages as I felt the confusion Ariana experienced in response to Mr. Mornay's affection and how he would continually pull away. I suspect I knew when he cared for Ariana before she realized it herself. This was truly a delightful read. I loved the subtle tension between them and the dialogue. The terms used such as gel, paragon, reticule, ton, etc. all solidly planted me in the setting. While by no means edgy, for a regency period novel it was still yummy enough for me. I loved the way the spiritual theme played out and how the author used Scripture to illustrate her concerns. The spiritual awakening of previously lost characters truly touched my heart. I highly recommend this story for romance lovers who enjoy a strong faith element.
What hooked me was the scene in the tree. The same time Phillip Mornay fell in love I was pulled right in. I kept turning the pages as I felt the confusion Ariana experienced in response to Mr. Mornay's affection and how he would continually pull away. I suspect I knew when he cared for Ariana before she realized it herself. This was truly a delightful read. I loved the subtle tension between them and the dialogue. The terms used such as gel, paragon, reticule, ton, etc. all solidly planted me in the setting. While by no means edgy, for a regency period novel it was still yummy enough for me. I loved the way the spiritual theme played out and how the author used Scripture to illustrate her concerns. The spiritual awakening of previously lost characters truly touched my heart. I highly recommend this story for romance lovers who enjoy a strong faith element.
February 3, 2016
I had very mixed feelings about this story. I can appreciate the heroine’s convictions and the fact that she was honest with herself and others. I can appreciate that she thought things through and talked things out rather than flying into a silent (or sometimes not so silent) tizzy over unsubstantiated rumors like one sees so many other novel heroines doing. I like that she had a head on her shoulders. But if a lady cannot accept a man as he is, That seemed rather inconsistent with the rest of her character.
It was pretty confusing and annoying to see the word “girl” printed as “gel.” Every. Single. Time. I assume this was some sort of indication of an accent. Whatever. Actually, I think that did start to drop by closer to the end of the book, but, yeah, that lasted way too long. This book was completely clean but quite heavy-handed in its Christian content, even for me.
It was pretty confusing and annoying to see the word “girl” printed as “gel.” Every. Single. Time. I assume this was some sort of indication of an accent. Whatever. Actually, I think that did start to drop by closer to the end of the book, but, yeah, that lasted way too long. This book was completely clean but quite heavy-handed in its Christian content, even for me.
February 12, 2020
NOTE: I read and reviewed the original paperback book. Linore told me that there are some changes to "lines of dialogue" in this edition but the story is the same. :)
A wonderful, elegant story that will shock and surprise you up until the end! Linore writes, especially well, about what true Faith and Salvation means, in such a heartwarming and honest way. She captures the style of Jane Austin's time and style so elegantly and beautifully! Writing in such an intelligent and exquisite way. Before the Season Ends is a wonderful book and I can't wait to read the sequel. This book is filled with situations that you wouldn't really want to find yourself in unless you have a Mr. Mornay yourself! I know that he would have made being in some of the scenes Linore paints worth it to me! LOL! This book is a must read and I suspect that the whole series is as well!
My songs for this book is: "Find You On My Knees" by Kari Jobe and "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" by Alan Jackson
John 3:15-16
~ASC
A wonderful, elegant story that will shock and surprise you up until the end! Linore writes, especially well, about what true Faith and Salvation means, in such a heartwarming and honest way. She captures the style of Jane Austin's time and style so elegantly and beautifully! Writing in such an intelligent and exquisite way. Before the Season Ends is a wonderful book and I can't wait to read the sequel. This book is filled with situations that you wouldn't really want to find yourself in unless you have a Mr. Mornay yourself! I know that he would have made being in some of the scenes Linore paints worth it to me! LOL! This book is a must read and I suspect that the whole series is as well!
My songs for this book is: "Find You On My Knees" by Kari Jobe and "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" by Alan Jackson
John 3:15-16
~ASC
September 30, 2014
9/30/14 - I started reading this one last night (different cover) and realized I had read it already...the MC is really silly at first..I can't remember but I assume she gets better.
10/3/09 -This was a clean regency period book. I did think that the last quarter of the book was kind of slow and I found myself trying to hurry to get it over with. If I could have shortened it then it would have been 4 stars.
10/3/09 -This was a clean regency period book. I did think that the last quarter of the book was kind of slow and I found myself trying to hurry to get it over with. If I could have shortened it then it would have been 4 stars.
October 25, 2009
Up to 3/4 of the way through the book I loved it- couldn't put it down. It was like a cute version of Jane Austen or Elizabeth Gaskell. I would have easily given it a 5 stars, but all of the sudden it turned born again christian on me and it irritated me. It's not the religion in of itself that bugged me. I just found the main character to be overly pious and judgmental. If the book had ended when they had gotten engaged it would have been so much better.
May 3, 2018
Absolutely beautiful! I was encouraged in my faith, thrilled by the sweet romance, and delighted by the gorgeous details woven throughout. Thank you, Linore, for such a wonderful book!
March 22, 2025
I've finally finished reading her debut novel
Before the Season Ends
. Now for my review of my first Christian and Inspirational romance novel that I found out about through Jessica Coulter Smith's blog one day. I really loved the cover of her novel along with the title but when I read the blurb of her book it really hooked me so I went to her website. I found this little trailer she had of her novel and after I finished watching it I knew I had to get in touch with Linore so I can review her novel as well as have her here on my blog as a guest. Even though Linore's novel is considered a christian romance and I've never really read any christian based novels I still wanted to read it. I'm always telling everyone that I love reading new types of genres except non-fiction which I really don't like reading so I'm going to read this novel even though I've never read a Jane Austen book either. The novel starts in England in the year 1813 and the romantic woes at home send Ariana Forsythe to her wealthy Aunt Bentley’s townhouse in fashionable Mayfair, London. Ariana and her family are very religious so Ariana felt that it was her destiny to marry a man of God. Even though the man of God she wants to marry is almost 30 years older than her and isn't the man her mother wants her to marry at all.
She's been sent to London for her own good and under her aunt’s calculating eye, Ariana is thrust into the high society she doesn't understand fully and a worse intrigue than that which prompted her flight from home has happened. Then a scandalous rumor involving her with London’s current darling rogue, the handsome, Mr. Phillip Mornay, is launched on society in a malicious act of meanness by a Lady of society that changes Ariana’s life forever. Her faith, her future, and her heart are all at stake as she strives to clear her name and resist Phillip Mornay, the man who does not share her faith as deeply as her. Will Ariana’s beliefs survive? I think it will though she will definitely be suffering a bit because of what she is feeling for Phillip. And what about her heart? She has developed deep feelings for Phillip since she met him and that is conflicting with her religious belief that she can only love and marry a man as deeply religious as her.
For her belief is the part of her which most threatens to betray the truths she has always believed in and when she finds herself backed against a wall, betrothed to the supposedly wrong man, how will it ever turn out right? That is a question that had me wondering as I was reading this novel which at first I felt started out kind of slow but really picked up for me after chapter two. From the country village of Chesterton, where Ariana was born and raised, to the ballroom of the Prince Regent’s London palace, where she begins to fall in love with Phillip Mornay. Before the Season Ends will take you to Regency England where you’ll find a world so elegant and comfortable, you’ll want to stay for a long, long time. I'm not that religious so I really could relate more to Phillip's character than Ariana because his family is Christian but he's not the deep faith religious like Ariana.
Though I can't particularly relate to Ariana's character much I really loved her in this novel and I can understand a bit her dilemma with trying to do what felt right and would be the right thing for her to do. Phillip is a wonderful character that I think really is good for Ariana because they are complete opposites but find a way to make their romantic relationship work. There were some secondary characters in this novel that I also enjoyed very much reading about such as Ariana's aunt and her aunt's gentleman friend who really spiced things up. After finishing this novel I will say that though I'm not sure I will start reading more Christian romance but I will be reading more of Linore Rose Burkard's Christian romance. I'm very much looking forward to the sequel to Before the Season Ends that is called The House in Grosvenor Square , which comes out in April 2009. I can't wait for April to get here so I can read more about Ariana and Phillip's love lives after the wonderful ending of the first novel.
Read rest of Review...
She's been sent to London for her own good and under her aunt’s calculating eye, Ariana is thrust into the high society she doesn't understand fully and a worse intrigue than that which prompted her flight from home has happened. Then a scandalous rumor involving her with London’s current darling rogue, the handsome, Mr. Phillip Mornay, is launched on society in a malicious act of meanness by a Lady of society that changes Ariana’s life forever. Her faith, her future, and her heart are all at stake as she strives to clear her name and resist Phillip Mornay, the man who does not share her faith as deeply as her. Will Ariana’s beliefs survive? I think it will though she will definitely be suffering a bit because of what she is feeling for Phillip. And what about her heart? She has developed deep feelings for Phillip since she met him and that is conflicting with her religious belief that she can only love and marry a man as deeply religious as her.
For her belief is the part of her which most threatens to betray the truths she has always believed in and when she finds herself backed against a wall, betrothed to the supposedly wrong man, how will it ever turn out right? That is a question that had me wondering as I was reading this novel which at first I felt started out kind of slow but really picked up for me after chapter two. From the country village of Chesterton, where Ariana was born and raised, to the ballroom of the Prince Regent’s London palace, where she begins to fall in love with Phillip Mornay. Before the Season Ends will take you to Regency England where you’ll find a world so elegant and comfortable, you’ll want to stay for a long, long time. I'm not that religious so I really could relate more to Phillip's character than Ariana because his family is Christian but he's not the deep faith religious like Ariana.
Though I can't particularly relate to Ariana's character much I really loved her in this novel and I can understand a bit her dilemma with trying to do what felt right and would be the right thing for her to do. Phillip is a wonderful character that I think really is good for Ariana because they are complete opposites but find a way to make their romantic relationship work. There were some secondary characters in this novel that I also enjoyed very much reading about such as Ariana's aunt and her aunt's gentleman friend who really spiced things up. After finishing this novel I will say that though I'm not sure I will start reading more Christian romance but I will be reading more of Linore Rose Burkard's Christian romance. I'm very much looking forward to the sequel to Before the Season Ends that is called The House in Grosvenor Square , which comes out in April 2009. I can't wait for April to get here so I can read more about Ariana and Phillip's love lives after the wonderful ending of the first novel.
Read rest of Review...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2013
Nineteen year old Ariana Forsythe is convinced that God has called her to marry a man of the church, and she sets her sights on the elderly vicar of her family's country parish. Not wishing her to marry a much older man, her parents send her off to London to stay with her father's wealthy sister. Ariana looks forward to seeing the sights of London but her aunt has grand plans for the beautiful girl and they include being the toast of the ton and marrying a wealthy peer. On a visit to a country estate, Ariana literally runs into one of the patronesses of Almacks and innocently offends her. Next, Ariana invokes the ire and the interest of The Paragon, Phillip Mornay. When Lady Worthington tries to cause a scandal involving Ariana and Mr. Mornay, he rises to the occasion to rescue the innocent young girl. Ariana gets caught up in a whirl of high society and even catches the eye of the Prince Regent. Even though she's enjoying herself, Ariana knows Mr. Mornay would not make a good husband, even if he were interested in her, for he is not a true Christian. Ariana prays for his soul and prays God will direct her to the right husband, one of true faith and good character. Mr. Mornay seems to fit the character requirement but a Mr. O'Brien fulfills the faith requirement. Ariana prays a lot more for guidance and help coming to a decision while preaching to the ones she loves and badgering them to become true Christians. I absolutely hate preachy books, preachy characters and people who try to beat others into believing what they believe and this book has them all. At first Ariana is charming and funny with lots of country innocence but the author ruins the book by making Ariana turn wishy-washy. Ariana prays constantly and quotes Scripture as she tries to figure out what to do. I can't relate to that. The story would have been a lot better if she had accepted that it was God's will to marry a kind and generous man who loves her and whom she loves back. It also would have made the story shorter. Mr. Mornay isn't all that likable either. The story never gets inside his head and the reader only learns about the events that shaped his life second hand, as Ariana learns them from someone else! He is also overbearing at times, wanting to protect Ariana but also demanding that he choose her clothes, forever! It's hard to like a character without knowing what he's thinking. Ariana's aunt is a stereotypical dowager of the ton, scheming matchmaker and demanding aunt who never listens to Ariana or cares what the girl thinks or feels. This story starts off well but deteriorates towards the last quarter of the novel. I wouldn't recommend this one except maybe to Christians.
February 2, 2009
Young and impressionable, Ariana Forsythe longs for marriage and to do God's will. When a most unsuitable suitor emerges and takes advantage of her naiveté, Ariana's parents see no other recourse than to pack her off to London for the season. Under the eager sponsorship of her wealthy aunt, Ariana is introduced to the cream of London society. There she must learn to navigate an intricate web of etiquette and expectations, where a word in the wrong ear can ruin a girl's reputation and marriage prospects in an instant. Bolstered by her faith, Ariana refuses to be cowed by the opinions of others, or to mold her character in the image of society's "ideal." Her spirit catches the eye of London's most eligible bachelor, Phillip Mornay. Bestowed with the apparent favor of the "Paragon," Ariana earns the enmity of several society women. When Mornay gallantly offers to rescue her reputation, Ariana soon finds herself falling for the brooding nobleman. But for a woman of deeply held religious beliefs, Phillip's lack of faith is a troubling obstacle...for how can a man who seems so wrong possibly be the one God intends for her?
Before the Season Ends is an absolute joy to read, a little gem of a book that my Regency-loving soul absolutely savored. Burkard has obviously done her homework, and from where I sit she nails the time period - everything from the language and mannerisms to social customs and dress fabrics are authentically detailed. However, Burkard doesn't drown the narrative in details - the story is fast-paced, and the dialogue sparkles with the type of witty, cultured exchanges I love to see in Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer's books. Burkard's novel neatly fills a niche in the Christian fiction marketplace - she's delivered a novel dripping with Regency period detail, full of warmth and humor, interwoven with a deftly handled faith element. The Christian faith is a very real part of Ariana's and her family's lives, but thankfully they aren't "cookie cutter," perfect believers. Burkard's characters are real, and though expertly placed in a time and setting far removed from our own technology-filled lives, their struggles make for an engaging read. I can't wait to discover the next chapter in Phillip and Ariana's story!
Before the Season Ends is an absolute joy to read, a little gem of a book that my Regency-loving soul absolutely savored. Burkard has obviously done her homework, and from where I sit she nails the time period - everything from the language and mannerisms to social customs and dress fabrics are authentically detailed. However, Burkard doesn't drown the narrative in details - the story is fast-paced, and the dialogue sparkles with the type of witty, cultured exchanges I love to see in Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer's books. Burkard's novel neatly fills a niche in the Christian fiction marketplace - she's delivered a novel dripping with Regency period detail, full of warmth and humor, interwoven with a deftly handled faith element. The Christian faith is a very real part of Ariana's and her family's lives, but thankfully they aren't "cookie cutter," perfect believers. Burkard's characters are real, and though expertly placed in a time and setting far removed from our own technology-filled lives, their struggles make for an engaging read. I can't wait to discover the next chapter in Phillip and Ariana's story!
February 6, 2012
I got this awesome book on amazon in their top free 100 books list and Im soo happy I did. I have since bought the other 2 stories in this saga and cant wait till they come in.
I have read a lot of Christian fiction and now exclusively read only books that are of this caliber. I cant tell you how great this story is.
Before the Season Ends by Linore Rose Burkard, Is a true gem of a story. Its very hard to find a Christian Romance that offers not only a great love story but is also filled in really great Christian teaching.
A lot of the books I read sometimes just touch on Christian beliefs and scripture, you get a lot of story and little inspiration. Before the Season Ends, has a really great balance of story ,romance and inspiration.
This is the story of a Christian young lady who has been sent to her Aunt in London in the 1800s to have a season and find a husband. She is determined to find a Christian husband and feels sure God will answer her prayer ,even though she has no real fortune. Her aunt is funding the cost of the dresses and finery to present her to society in the hopes of making a acceptable match.
What follows is a set of circumstances that shows, truly, that all things work for the good for those who have faith that the Lord knows whats best for us even if we cant really see that at first.
I really loved this book , it was a joy to read and the Best Christian book I have read that has both story and faith based inspiration.
The really great thing is that the story continues in her next book which I bought on amazon in hard copy because I wanted to be sure I had it on my book shelves forever.
This is the kind of book you can read and read again. As I said I got this copy on my kindle for free last week, Im not sure if its still available for free but if it is, I encourage you to download it.
If you are looking for a great Christian story that has plenty of romance and atmosphere than look no more, this is it!
I am thankful that the Lord has made it possible for me to find an author who not only knows how to write a fantastic Regency romance but one who is able to incorporate sound Christian beliefs and situations that we can all learn from . Thank you Linore Rose Burkard ! PLEASE keep writing !
December 11, 2011
I can't write an objective review for this book. I'm sure that the book deserves all the praise and high ratings it's got if it was meant to be strictly read by the 'Inspirational Christian Novels' community.
Its era details are well researched and well described, especially the clothes. But then the author gets down to the business of making the book 'inspirational' and what had promised to be a good read - not Jane Austen, but a maybe some shadow of Georgette Heyer - turned into an annoying treatise on the 'favoured children of God' and the 'Will of God' and how the heroine must spread the 'Kingdom of God'.
I don't think there is anything inspirational about the smug superiority displayed by authors of this sub-genre. I say this with the realization that it is the upbringing that instills this smugness in these authors and that - as seems in this particular case (gleaned from the author's biography) - the person's nature itself maybe a humble and earnest one.
I don't mind a heroine who prays constantly throughout a book so long as the author doesn't use her to preach to the readers or somehow convey that without the constant praying none of her problems would have been solved. There are classics that have portrayed characters with strong beliefs and faith in a way in which I can understand their minds better. I might not agree but at least the beliefs were never thrust at me. Anne of Green Gables or Little Women come to mind.
Anyway, I think the author's obvious skill (still in its early developmental stage) is wasted here. If the preaching was not so important to her I might actually have enjoyed the book. I did like the beginning but by 39% I was itching to slap Ariana silly.
Did the author even consider that she might have non-christian or agnostic (or even less enthusiastic Christian) readers who might not appreciate her patronizing narrative?
:sigh:
I just think she cruelly killed what could have been a good read for me. It's so rare to find an author who can grasp how to write a piece that actually echoes the classic romantic writers of that time.
:End of rant: :)
Its era details are well researched and well described, especially the clothes. But then the author gets down to the business of making the book 'inspirational' and what had promised to be a good read - not Jane Austen, but a maybe some shadow of Georgette Heyer - turned into an annoying treatise on the 'favoured children of God' and the 'Will of God' and how the heroine must spread the 'Kingdom of God'.
I don't think there is anything inspirational about the smug superiority displayed by authors of this sub-genre. I say this with the realization that it is the upbringing that instills this smugness in these authors and that - as seems in this particular case (gleaned from the author's biography) - the person's nature itself maybe a humble and earnest one.
I don't mind a heroine who prays constantly throughout a book so long as the author doesn't use her to preach to the readers or somehow convey that without the constant praying none of her problems would have been solved. There are classics that have portrayed characters with strong beliefs and faith in a way in which I can understand their minds better. I might not agree but at least the beliefs were never thrust at me. Anne of Green Gables or Little Women come to mind.
Anyway, I think the author's obvious skill (still in its early developmental stage) is wasted here. If the preaching was not so important to her I might actually have enjoyed the book. I did like the beginning but by 39% I was itching to slap Ariana silly.
Did the author even consider that she might have non-christian or agnostic (or even less enthusiastic Christian) readers who might not appreciate her patronizing narrative?
:sigh:
I just think she cruelly killed what could have been a good read for me. It's so rare to find an author who can grasp how to write a piece that actually echoes the classic romantic writers of that time.
:End of rant: :)
May 20, 2009
Review by Jill Williamson
England, 1813. A time when a young lady’s life was all about finding the best husband. Country girl Ariana Forsythe’s parents do not approve of the man she has set her sights on and send her to London to live with her rich Aunt Bentley. Ariana can hardly wait to see the city, a place filled with history, museums, and art. Aunt Bentley has different ideas of how Ariana will spend her time, however, and drags Ariana on countless shopping trips to prepare for her debut into society.
But Aunt Bentley over exaggerates. Arianna is not the eldest daughter nor does she have a large inheritance, though no man could doubt it the way Aunt Bentley presents her niece. Ariana feels as though she is deceiving everyone she meets. She does not wish for a rich husband. She only wants one who loves God as much as she does.
Ariana seems to attract disaster. A misunderstanding with a rich and powerful woman results in a vicious rumor about Ariana and London’s current rich and rouge bachelor, Philip Mornay. Despite Philip’s indifference toward young women seeking a husband, he offers to help Ariana dispel these rumors by pretending to court her. Ariana’s faith and future are on the line. Will Philip’s intentions help to clear her name? And can she resist giving her heart to a man who does not share her love of God?
What a delightful read! I love books based on this period in history. Ms. Burkard has written a wonderful story of the complications of high society life in regency England. Her characters were both charming and deep. I longed for Ariana to find what she really wanted and get away from her manipulating aunt. But Ms. Burkard found clever ways to overcome each worrisome development Ariana managed to get herself into. I highly recommend this novel for those who love Jane Austen and romance stories.
England, 1813. A time when a young lady’s life was all about finding the best husband. Country girl Ariana Forsythe’s parents do not approve of the man she has set her sights on and send her to London to live with her rich Aunt Bentley. Ariana can hardly wait to see the city, a place filled with history, museums, and art. Aunt Bentley has different ideas of how Ariana will spend her time, however, and drags Ariana on countless shopping trips to prepare for her debut into society.
But Aunt Bentley over exaggerates. Arianna is not the eldest daughter nor does she have a large inheritance, though no man could doubt it the way Aunt Bentley presents her niece. Ariana feels as though she is deceiving everyone she meets. She does not wish for a rich husband. She only wants one who loves God as much as she does.
Ariana seems to attract disaster. A misunderstanding with a rich and powerful woman results in a vicious rumor about Ariana and London’s current rich and rouge bachelor, Philip Mornay. Despite Philip’s indifference toward young women seeking a husband, he offers to help Ariana dispel these rumors by pretending to court her. Ariana’s faith and future are on the line. Will Philip’s intentions help to clear her name? And can she resist giving her heart to a man who does not share her love of God?
What a delightful read! I love books based on this period in history. Ms. Burkard has written a wonderful story of the complications of high society life in regency England. Her characters were both charming and deep. I longed for Ariana to find what she really wanted and get away from her manipulating aunt. But Ms. Burkard found clever ways to overcome each worrisome development Ariana managed to get herself into. I highly recommend this novel for those who love Jane Austen and romance stories.
February 14, 2010
Ms. Burkard's writing style is being compared to Jane Austen in many of the reviews. I'm not sure I would necessarily go to that extreme, but I will say that I greatly enjoyed this book. Some have disliked Ariana's strong beliefs against being unequally yolked in a marriage, but I have to say that as a Christian I can wholeheartedly agree and sympathize with her beliefs. And as this book was *intended* for Christian readers, I think anyone reading it from that viewpoint would not find fault in including it. It depends upon what you are looking for in Christian novels, I suppose. If you want solely to read a book with good morals and no questionable content, then this is not the book for you. If you enjoy such a book as previously described that includes an Evangelistic message, then this is most definitely the book for you!
On another vein, I used to read the period novels of a particular secular author and I find that Ms. Burkard's writing style, particularly in describing the fashions and the ways of society, read very similar to the secular author--without all the language or sexual content, of course. I really love Regency fiction and have been somewhat disappointed with the lack of quality novels in this category. So I was thrilled to find "Before the Season Ends" and the other two novels in the series. Now I can read the period romance novels I love without all the offensive content I don't--thoroughly embracing the Christian beliefs cherished by the lead character.
On another vein, I used to read the period novels of a particular secular author and I find that Ms. Burkard's writing style, particularly in describing the fashions and the ways of society, read very similar to the secular author--without all the language or sexual content, of course. I really love Regency fiction and have been somewhat disappointed with the lack of quality novels in this category. So I was thrilled to find "Before the Season Ends" and the other two novels in the series. Now I can read the period romance novels I love without all the offensive content I don't--thoroughly embracing the Christian beliefs cherished by the lead character.
January 22, 2019
So many Christian fiction books throw in a few prayers, or talk about "God" now and then, or perhaps about going to church. This book dealt with Christian issues of honesty, prayer, God's will and, greatly, the struggle of being attracted to someone who doesn't share your faith. I've read a lot of books where, even if a person is not a believer, the Christian still pursues a relationship with them. I'm always disappointed in the author for this.
But in this book, even though there is love and a marriage proposal, the young woman, Ariana Forsyth, will not consider a match between them as he, Philip Mornay, has no true relationship with Christ. Her greatest desire is to do the will of God.
All this is told in the language of Jane Austen....and very well done, might I add! I'd truly have a hard time telling the difference between the two authors.
Ariana is invited by her aunt, a wealthy London socialite, to the season at her expense. There are so many customs she needs to be aware of, and doesn't always abide by them, which gets her in some unpleasant predicaments. Getting her out of one of the bigger predicaments is what leads her to spending much more time with the one person her aunt has warned her against. She learns to appreciate him, even be attracted by him. However, just as he's falling for her she is acutely aware she will not be in God's will to be unequally yoked, and she tells him so. This is hard on both of them but she holds her ground, always seeking God's will.
But in this book, even though there is love and a marriage proposal, the young woman, Ariana Forsyth, will not consider a match between them as he, Philip Mornay, has no true relationship with Christ. Her greatest desire is to do the will of God.
All this is told in the language of Jane Austen....and very well done, might I add! I'd truly have a hard time telling the difference between the two authors.
Ariana is invited by her aunt, a wealthy London socialite, to the season at her expense. There are so many customs she needs to be aware of, and doesn't always abide by them, which gets her in some unpleasant predicaments. Getting her out of one of the bigger predicaments is what leads her to spending much more time with the one person her aunt has warned her against. She learns to appreciate him, even be attracted by him. However, just as he's falling for her she is acutely aware she will not be in God's will to be unequally yoked, and she tells him so. This is hard on both of them but she holds her ground, always seeking God's will.
December 6, 2012
Audience: Adult
Genre: Regency Romance, Inspirational Romance
Length: 349 pages
Rating: ** (It was okay.)
The Pros: How can you go wrong with a hero named Phillip? In my experience, I've loved heroes with this moniker. This one didn't disappoint. He was my favorite part of the book by far. He was reserved, but still goodhearted deep down. The plot was original and I enjoyed it.
The Cons: I've never come across an inspirational Regency romance before. As inspirational romances go, this one is very preachy, especially the latter half. I never skip pages in a book, but I skipped several in the final chapters of this one, just to get to the end and see what happened. Ariana's insistence that Phillip "come to Christ" made her seem self-righteous and I found myself identifying more with Phillip and Ariana's "heathen" aunt than with Ariana.
Disclaimer: Nothing
You can buy BEFORE THE SEASONS ENDS and it's two companion novels at www.linoreburkard.com.
If you're interested in Regency romance, check out my novella A CONTEMPTIBLE AFFECTION, available on Amazon and Smashwords.
Read this review and others at http://raneesclark.blogspot.com/p/rev...
Genre: Regency Romance, Inspirational Romance
Length: 349 pages
Rating: ** (It was okay.)
The Pros: How can you go wrong with a hero named Phillip? In my experience, I've loved heroes with this moniker. This one didn't disappoint. He was my favorite part of the book by far. He was reserved, but still goodhearted deep down. The plot was original and I enjoyed it.
The Cons: I've never come across an inspirational Regency romance before. As inspirational romances go, this one is very preachy, especially the latter half. I never skip pages in a book, but I skipped several in the final chapters of this one, just to get to the end and see what happened. Ariana's insistence that Phillip "come to Christ" made her seem self-righteous and I found myself identifying more with Phillip and Ariana's "heathen" aunt than with Ariana.
Disclaimer: Nothing
You can buy BEFORE THE SEASONS ENDS and it's two companion novels at www.linoreburkard.com.
If you're interested in Regency romance, check out my novella A CONTEMPTIBLE AFFECTION, available on Amazon and Smashwords.
Read this review and others at http://raneesclark.blogspot.com/p/rev...
May 20, 2013
Oh what a ride! At the start of this book, I was thinking “How could she want to do that?” Do what? Well, you have to read the book to find out. As my reading progressed, I was grateful for the turn of events in Ariana’s life. I mean, her life wasn’t all roses and candy, but it was better than the alternative waiting for her back home. Importance of birth order, secrets, traps, mystery, intrigue, love and undying faith….this book has it all.
From the very first encounter between Ariana and Mr. Mornay, I knew that those two would have my emotions going back and forth. (and I knew they would have me laughing at times) Two head-strong, set in their ways and beliefs people, thrown together in the midst of high society…..hmmm…but can this young girl from a modest upbringing truly be a part of the life that Mr. Mornay is accustomed? Or will she change him? I guess you will have to READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT. In all seriousness, this is a great read and I highly recommend it. It is part of a series, so I will be reading Book 2 very soon.
(I really LOVE the convictions of Ariana and her unwillingness to go against God; truly inspirational)
From the very first encounter between Ariana and Mr. Mornay, I knew that those two would have my emotions going back and forth. (and I knew they would have me laughing at times) Two head-strong, set in their ways and beliefs people, thrown together in the midst of high society…..hmmm…but can this young girl from a modest upbringing truly be a part of the life that Mr. Mornay is accustomed? Or will she change him? I guess you will have to READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT. In all seriousness, this is a great read and I highly recommend it. It is part of a series, so I will be reading Book 2 very soon.
(I really LOVE the convictions of Ariana and her unwillingness to go against God; truly inspirational)
July 23, 2011
Linore Rose Burkard has written a book that entertains, educates and keeps you guessing until the last page. The story about a Christian girl interested in marriage and a family who wants to help her find a suitable partner takes off on an age-old theme: What happens when an innocent damsel meets an irascible man? Will she follow her head or her heart as she gets to know this flagrant unbeliever?
This is the kind of book that opens your eyes to what you don’t know. I learned much about society in 19th century England. I had no idea women carried “reticules,” fabric bags that eliminated bulk from pockets. To carry one’s personal effects outside of one’s clothing seemed “ridiculous,” hence the term. I learned about a “social season” with keen competition to attend “assemblies.”
The short glossary at the end of the book was most helpful and the book also includes a discussion guide for book clubs. The story was believable and intriguing with plenty of interesting little twists along the way.
This is the kind of book that opens your eyes to what you don’t know. I learned much about society in 19th century England. I had no idea women carried “reticules,” fabric bags that eliminated bulk from pockets. To carry one’s personal effects outside of one’s clothing seemed “ridiculous,” hence the term. I learned about a “social season” with keen competition to attend “assemblies.”
The short glossary at the end of the book was most helpful and the book also includes a discussion guide for book clubs. The story was believable and intriguing with plenty of interesting little twists along the way.
December 22, 2011
I love this book! I am relatively new to Christian historical fiction, and I wanted to try a regency, and I'm so glad I did. I know many have criticized Ariana's faith in this book, but that is WHY I loved this book. I love how she is constantly turning to God, praying and seeking His insight. As a person who came to Christ as an adult, I've always wondered what it would be like to have been raised by Christian parents and taught to "fully rely on God", and I feel like this gives me a glimpse and ties up some loose ends. I found Ariana very inspiring and I felt her pain while she was putting off the wedding to ensure her love's faith matched hers. I also loved Phillip Mornay's character. He's gruff and tough externally, but he's so sweet to his love, and that just reminds me of my husband.
December 13, 2012
A wonderful, elegant story that will shock and surprise you up until the end! Linore writes, especially well, about what true Faith and Salvation means, in such a heartwarming and honest way. She captures the style of Jane Austin's time and style so elegantly and beautifully! Writing in such an intelligent and exquisite way. Before the Season ends is a wonderful book and I can't wait to read the sequel. This book is filled with situations that you wouldn't really want to find yourself in unless you have a Mr. Mornay yourself! I know that he would have made being in some of the scenes Linore paints worth it to me! LOL! This book is a must read and I suspect that the whole series is as well!
My songs for this book is: "Find You On My Knees" by Kari Jobe and "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" by Alan Jackson
John 3:15-16
~ASC
My songs for this book is: "Find You On My Knees" by Kari Jobe and "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" by Alan Jackson
John 3:15-16
~ASC
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