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The Truitts #2
Dalliances & Devotion
A change in course can be refreshing…when it's done together.
1871
After two disastrous marriages, beauty columnist Amalia Truitt's life is finally her own—well, it will be if she can get herself back to Delaware and demand access to her share of the Truitt family fortune. After all, the charity she's organized for women who can't afford their own divorces won't fund itself.
However, not everyone wants her to reach her destination. When her family learns she's been receiving anonymous death threats, a solo journey is out of the question.
Enter David Zisskind, the ragtag-peddler-turned-soldier whose heart Amalia broke years ago. He's a Pinkerton now, and the promotion he craves depends on protecting his long-lost love on the unexpectedly treacherous journey across Pennsylvania.
That their physical connection has endured the test of time (and then some) is problematic, to say the least.
In very close quarters, with danger lurking around every curve, with each kiss and illicit touch, the wrongs of the past are righted. But David can't weather another rejection, especially with his career in jeopardy. And Amalia can't possibly take a lover, never mind another husband…not with so much depending on her repaired reputation. Not when she’s hurt David—her David—so badly before.
1871
After two disastrous marriages, beauty columnist Amalia Truitt's life is finally her own—well, it will be if she can get herself back to Delaware and demand access to her share of the Truitt family fortune. After all, the charity she's organized for women who can't afford their own divorces won't fund itself.
However, not everyone wants her to reach her destination. When her family learns she's been receiving anonymous death threats, a solo journey is out of the question.
Enter David Zisskind, the ragtag-peddler-turned-soldier whose heart Amalia broke years ago. He's a Pinkerton now, and the promotion he craves depends on protecting his long-lost love on the unexpectedly treacherous journey across Pennsylvania.
That their physical connection has endured the test of time (and then some) is problematic, to say the least.
In very close quarters, with danger lurking around every curve, with each kiss and illicit touch, the wrongs of the past are righted. But David can't weather another rejection, especially with his career in jeopardy. And Amalia can't possibly take a lover, never mind another husband…not with so much depending on her repaired reputation. Not when she’s hurt David—her David—so badly before.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2019
24 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 20, 2019
This review originally appeared as part of Pink Heart Society's August edition!
Rating: 4.5 stars
Yes, yes, yes. This was just what I wanted to read. A newspaper columnist and two-time divorcee is the target of harassment and needs a bodyguard in the form of her first love? YES. And let’s also mention that they are both Jewish, plus he’s an immigrant. All set a few years after the end of the American Civil War.
Our wonderful couple consist of Amalia and David, former young lovers who have a misunderstanding and part ways, with Amalia going as far as to get married to another man in reaction. Yes, really. Amalia comes across as initially frivolous and superficial on the surface, until you realise that you’re being very judgemental and that she’s actually a clever, useful, and fun person to have around. She’s also incredibly resourceful and caring, dedicating herself to helping women escape bad marriages. David, on the flip side, comes across as more serious, though Amalia does bring out the teasing side of him. Swoon. He’s rather stubborn though, and holds a lot of beliefs about who he is and what people think of him that are quite frankly just silly. And they are perfect for each other. Who doesn’t like a second chance romance?
The book is on the longer side, but don’t let that put you off. In fact, I just wanted to keep reading, stay in this narrative with two characters that clearly wanted each other but hadn’t been clear in the past and made themselves unhappy in doing so. They had such great chemistry, with this back-and-forth of thinking they weren’t suited but still not being able to resist each other. There were some excellent sexy scenes, I must say. It wasn’t just the heatwave in London having me fanning myself!
I learned so much from this book, further proving how awesome romance novels can be. For example, I learned about the Pinkertons, the first detective agency in the US, which David was one of. I learned that immigrants to the US, like David, volunteered to fight in the civil war. I learned about the difficulties of getting a divorce and how you had to go about it in the 1870s.
I also realised just how little I actually read from the perspective of Jewish people. I’ve read non-fiction accounts from the Holocaust, but novels? And set in other time periods? Not so much. Earlier this year, I read my first YA historical novel, the absolutely brilliant In the Neighborhood of True by Susan Kaplan Carlton, all about a Jewish teenager who has to move to Atlanta, Georgia to live with her Christian grandparents and see the effects of the KKK’s presence on her community in 1958. Then came this book. I have a feeling I may have read one or two books in the past, but I can’t recall them. But it’s still such a low number of Jewish main characters. And Dalliances & Devotion went a step further by showing the diversity even within the Jewish population.
But you’re not just reading this book for the history and cultural lessons. What you’re really reading it for is the electric connection between the characters, as well as their personal growth. The action, excitement, and funny supporting cast also keep things engaging. Dalliances & Devotion is a delightfully different historical romance that has converted me into a Felicia Grossman fan!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Yes, yes, yes. This was just what I wanted to read. A newspaper columnist and two-time divorcee is the target of harassment and needs a bodyguard in the form of her first love? YES. And let’s also mention that they are both Jewish, plus he’s an immigrant. All set a few years after the end of the American Civil War.
Our wonderful couple consist of Amalia and David, former young lovers who have a misunderstanding and part ways, with Amalia going as far as to get married to another man in reaction. Yes, really. Amalia comes across as initially frivolous and superficial on the surface, until you realise that you’re being very judgemental and that she’s actually a clever, useful, and fun person to have around. She’s also incredibly resourceful and caring, dedicating herself to helping women escape bad marriages. David, on the flip side, comes across as more serious, though Amalia does bring out the teasing side of him. Swoon. He’s rather stubborn though, and holds a lot of beliefs about who he is and what people think of him that are quite frankly just silly. And they are perfect for each other. Who doesn’t like a second chance romance?
The book is on the longer side, but don’t let that put you off. In fact, I just wanted to keep reading, stay in this narrative with two characters that clearly wanted each other but hadn’t been clear in the past and made themselves unhappy in doing so. They had such great chemistry, with this back-and-forth of thinking they weren’t suited but still not being able to resist each other. There were some excellent sexy scenes, I must say. It wasn’t just the heatwave in London having me fanning myself!
I learned so much from this book, further proving how awesome romance novels can be. For example, I learned about the Pinkertons, the first detective agency in the US, which David was one of. I learned that immigrants to the US, like David, volunteered to fight in the civil war. I learned about the difficulties of getting a divorce and how you had to go about it in the 1870s.
I also realised just how little I actually read from the perspective of Jewish people. I’ve read non-fiction accounts from the Holocaust, but novels? And set in other time periods? Not so much. Earlier this year, I read my first YA historical novel, the absolutely brilliant In the Neighborhood of True by Susan Kaplan Carlton, all about a Jewish teenager who has to move to Atlanta, Georgia to live with her Christian grandparents and see the effects of the KKK’s presence on her community in 1958. Then came this book. I have a feeling I may have read one or two books in the past, but I can’t recall them. But it’s still such a low number of Jewish main characters. And Dalliances & Devotion went a step further by showing the diversity even within the Jewish population.
But you’re not just reading this book for the history and cultural lessons. What you’re really reading it for is the electric connection between the characters, as well as their personal growth. The action, excitement, and funny supporting cast also keep things engaging. Dalliances & Devotion is a delightfully different historical romance that has converted me into a Felicia Grossman fan!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 4, 2019
Yet another brilliant and engaging historical romance from Ms. Grossman.
I am a huge romance lover, but historical romance isn't my go-to... unless the author is one as gifted as Ms. Grossman. She won me over with book one in her Truitt series Appetites & Vices so I was SUPER anxious to get my hands on this puppy and it did not disappoint.
Dalliances & Devotion stars the daughter of Urs and Jay from Appetites & Vices fame. I absolutely fell in love with Urs (kinda want to be her when I grow up) and her charming counterpart Jay. Amalia manages to embody (quite literally) some of Ursula's traits such as her resilience and inner strength. She has been thrice divorced which is incredibly scandalous in this time period. She picks herself up after such painful moments and creates a career for herself as a beauty columnist teaching all women how to best care for their hair, skin, and nails. But in her personal life, she draws on her eternal optimism and perseveres in believing that one day her prince will come. Even if deep down she knows she's already met him...
Enter darling David. We need LOTS of heart eye emojis just for saying the name because I literally happy sigh thinking of him. He is a caring and empathetic male lead which we, sadly, do not see enough of in romance be it contemporary or historical. I adore him and his begrudging ceaseless devotion to the girl he fell in love with so many years earlier.
Amalia finds herself in the crosshairs of a sadistic stalker (think Fatal Attraction boiled bunny kind of stalker) and David is charged with finding who it is with his Pinkerton counterparts. A series of incredibly unfortunate events befall our beloved characters and they find themselves knee deep in survival mode.
I refuse to spoiler ANY of this fabulous roller coaster that is Dalliances & Devotion, not simply because I hate spoilers as a reader, but because you need to experience it for yourself!
Five stars is not nearly enough to encompass Ms. Grossman sophomore release. I can't wait to read more by this talented author and SINCERELY hope this isn't the end of the colorful and intriguing Truitt tribe.
I am a huge romance lover, but historical romance isn't my go-to... unless the author is one as gifted as Ms. Grossman. She won me over with book one in her Truitt series Appetites & Vices so I was SUPER anxious to get my hands on this puppy and it did not disappoint.
Dalliances & Devotion stars the daughter of Urs and Jay from Appetites & Vices fame. I absolutely fell in love with Urs (kinda want to be her when I grow up) and her charming counterpart Jay. Amalia manages to embody (quite literally) some of Ursula's traits such as her resilience and inner strength. She has been thrice divorced which is incredibly scandalous in this time period. She picks herself up after such painful moments and creates a career for herself as a beauty columnist teaching all women how to best care for their hair, skin, and nails. But in her personal life, she draws on her eternal optimism and perseveres in believing that one day her prince will come. Even if deep down she knows she's already met him...
Enter darling David. We need LOTS of heart eye emojis just for saying the name because I literally happy sigh thinking of him. He is a caring and empathetic male lead which we, sadly, do not see enough of in romance be it contemporary or historical. I adore him and his begrudging ceaseless devotion to the girl he fell in love with so many years earlier.
Amalia finds herself in the crosshairs of a sadistic stalker (think Fatal Attraction boiled bunny kind of stalker) and David is charged with finding who it is with his Pinkerton counterparts. A series of incredibly unfortunate events befall our beloved characters and they find themselves knee deep in survival mode.
I refuse to spoiler ANY of this fabulous roller coaster that is Dalliances & Devotion, not simply because I hate spoilers as a reader, but because you need to experience it for yourself!
Five stars is not nearly enough to encompass Ms. Grossman sophomore release. I can't wait to read more by this talented author and SINCERELY hope this isn't the end of the colorful and intriguing Truitt tribe.
August 26, 2019
Felicia Grossman is the singular reason I, as a non-historical romance junkie, have developed a new appreciation for a genre I had all but written off. Her debut Appetites & Vices was the first historical romance my contemporary-loving heart adored. So, needless to say, I was champing at the bit for the next in The Pruitts series from Carina Press—Dalliances & Devotion. And just as her first book left me swooning and in love, so did this one.
Grossman tackles her genre with a unique flair and a steady, gifted touch. There’s nothing about her writing I’d call predictable or dry. She delves into the time period in which her stories are based and paints a picture so vivid and beautiful—yet somehow perfectly balanced so as not to steal the show from the plot itself—that I get utterly lost within the historic tapestry. She draws in the most minute details—clothing, gadgets, customs, even accurate locales—and allows the reader to travel effortlessly back in time.
But it isn’t just Grossman’s world-building that deserves a spotlight. I absolutely adore her characterization, and her grasp on pacing and plot structure make her writing an enjoyable and effortless treat. Amalia isn’t your typical historic heroine. She’s twice divorced and financially independent. She’s also delightfully spunky and has a got-get-’em attitude that made me grin. Then there’s David. swoon That man is just… yeah. There almost aren’t the words for him. He’s one of those book boyfriends you just wanna put in your pocket and take with you everywhere. Thankfully, this is available in ebook, so I can!
I would highly recommend this to all historical romance readers out there. It isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill example of the genre. It has diverse characters—both of the main characters are Jewish!—and it does a fantastic job of dropping the reader into the late nineteenth century.
Merged review:
Felicia Grossman is the singular reason I, as a non-historical romance junkie, have developed a new appreciation for a genre I had all but written off. Her debut Appetites & Vices was the first historical romance my contemporary-loving heart adored. So, needless to say, I was champing at the bit for the next in The Pruitts series from Carina Press—Dalliances & Devotion. And just as her first book left me swooning and in love, so did this one.
Grossman tackles her genre with a unique flair and a steady, gifted touch. There’s nothing about her writing I’d call predictable or dry. She delves into the time period in which her stories are based and paints a picture so vivid and beautiful—yet somehow perfectly balanced so as not to steal the show from the plot itself—that I get utterly lost within the historic tapestry. She draws in the most minute details—clothing, gadgets, customs, even accurate locales—and allows the reader to travel effortlessly back in time.
But it isn’t just Grossman’s world-building that deserves a spotlight. I absolutely adore her characterization, and her grasp on pacing and plot structure make her writing an enjoyable and effortless treat. Amalia isn’t your typical historic heroine. She’s twice divorced and financially independent. She’s also delightfully spunky and has a got-get-’em attitude that made me grin. Then there’s David. swoon That man is just… yeah. There almost aren’t the words for him. He’s one of those book boyfriends you just wanna put in your pocket and take with you everywhere. Thankfully, this is available in ebook, so I can!
I would highly recommend this to all historical romance readers out there. It isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill example of the genre. It has diverse characters—both of the main characters are Jewish!—and it does a fantastic job of dropping the reader into the late nineteenth century.
Grossman tackles her genre with a unique flair and a steady, gifted touch. There’s nothing about her writing I’d call predictable or dry. She delves into the time period in which her stories are based and paints a picture so vivid and beautiful—yet somehow perfectly balanced so as not to steal the show from the plot itself—that I get utterly lost within the historic tapestry. She draws in the most minute details—clothing, gadgets, customs, even accurate locales—and allows the reader to travel effortlessly back in time.
But it isn’t just Grossman’s world-building that deserves a spotlight. I absolutely adore her characterization, and her grasp on pacing and plot structure make her writing an enjoyable and effortless treat. Amalia isn’t your typical historic heroine. She’s twice divorced and financially independent. She’s also delightfully spunky and has a got-get-’em attitude that made me grin. Then there’s David. swoon That man is just… yeah. There almost aren’t the words for him. He’s one of those book boyfriends you just wanna put in your pocket and take with you everywhere. Thankfully, this is available in ebook, so I can!
I would highly recommend this to all historical romance readers out there. It isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill example of the genre. It has diverse characters—both of the main characters are Jewish!—and it does a fantastic job of dropping the reader into the late nineteenth century.
Merged review:
Felicia Grossman is the singular reason I, as a non-historical romance junkie, have developed a new appreciation for a genre I had all but written off. Her debut Appetites & Vices was the first historical romance my contemporary-loving heart adored. So, needless to say, I was champing at the bit for the next in The Pruitts series from Carina Press—Dalliances & Devotion. And just as her first book left me swooning and in love, so did this one.
Grossman tackles her genre with a unique flair and a steady, gifted touch. There’s nothing about her writing I’d call predictable or dry. She delves into the time period in which her stories are based and paints a picture so vivid and beautiful—yet somehow perfectly balanced so as not to steal the show from the plot itself—that I get utterly lost within the historic tapestry. She draws in the most minute details—clothing, gadgets, customs, even accurate locales—and allows the reader to travel effortlessly back in time.
But it isn’t just Grossman’s world-building that deserves a spotlight. I absolutely adore her characterization, and her grasp on pacing and plot structure make her writing an enjoyable and effortless treat. Amalia isn’t your typical historic heroine. She’s twice divorced and financially independent. She’s also delightfully spunky and has a got-get-’em attitude that made me grin. Then there’s David. swoon That man is just… yeah. There almost aren’t the words for him. He’s one of those book boyfriends you just wanna put in your pocket and take with you everywhere. Thankfully, this is available in ebook, so I can!
I would highly recommend this to all historical romance readers out there. It isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill example of the genre. It has diverse characters—both of the main characters are Jewish!—and it does a fantastic job of dropping the reader into the late nineteenth century.
August 24, 2019
What an amazing addition to the first book in this series Appetites and Vices. I have to say I am excited to have discovered this author as she takes you on a journey of romance and world building. I learned a lot of history and was captured by the characters she created which actually come off the page!
Amalia Truitt is a determined lady and is really a crusader for women and everybody is not happy about that.. David Zisskind is an old love who had his heart broken by Amelia in the past but is now protecting her on a trek to obtain more money for her charity. A Pinkerton ( I love the stories of this agency!) and swoon worthy to say the least, the attraction is still there for the two. It sparks right off the page!
But can they make it safely to their destination and find they are meant for each other? Don't miss this exciting read that will keep you turning the pages until the end!
Amalia Truitt is a determined lady and is really a crusader for women and everybody is not happy about that.. David Zisskind is an old love who had his heart broken by Amelia in the past but is now protecting her on a trek to obtain more money for her charity. A Pinkerton ( I love the stories of this agency!) and swoon worthy to say the least, the attraction is still there for the two. It sparks right off the page!
But can they make it safely to their destination and find they are meant for each other? Don't miss this exciting read that will keep you turning the pages until the end!
July 31, 2019
I really loved Felicia's first book Appetites and Vices, and was immediately grabby hands for the second as soon as I'd put that one down. I was thrilled to be approved for an ARC from NetGalley so I could plunge right back into her delightful words. This book did not disappoint. I found it curious that rather than setting the book in a contemporaneous time with Appetites and Vices, Felicia chose to follow the next generation of Truitts, and that allows us to move along in history to see how things have changed, or not. The romance itself felt very different as well because the characters had different freedoms and new problems to contend with.
I adored David and Amalia. They re-unite after many years apart, with a history between them that they need to unravel. But the immediate mystery afoot is: Who is sending death threats to Amalia? As they travel together (David is sent to protect Amalia on her journey home), they search for answers to uncover the identity of her would-be assailant while flirting, teasing, battling, and tempting each other as only old friends can do. The banter between them is delicious, and Amalia reminds me at times of Scarlett O'Hara in her wiley use of her femininity and her witty dialogue. Of course, Felicia does not disappoint with a slow burn that heats up at intervals and kept me flipping the pages, rooting for the eventual HEA.
Highly recommend.
I adored David and Amalia. They re-unite after many years apart, with a history between them that they need to unravel. But the immediate mystery afoot is: Who is sending death threats to Amalia? As they travel together (David is sent to protect Amalia on her journey home), they search for answers to uncover the identity of her would-be assailant while flirting, teasing, battling, and tempting each other as only old friends can do. The banter between them is delicious, and Amalia reminds me at times of Scarlett O'Hara in her wiley use of her femininity and her witty dialogue. Of course, Felicia does not disappoint with a slow burn that heats up at intervals and kept me flipping the pages, rooting for the eventual HEA.
Highly recommend.
September 12, 2019
*2.5 stars*
This makes me utterly, utterly sad, but I did not love Dalliances & Devotion.
As a Jewish reader, I'm always on the lookout for books with Jewish protagonists, and bonus points if they aren't horribly depressing. A nice romance book with Jewish MCs, and bonus, a historical romance (my favorite), and I'm all in. I was so, so thrilled to see this book and this series, and I couldn't wait to try it. But, alas, it wasn't all that I was expecting.
I liked the Jewish aspects of the story most of all. I liked the signs of the characters' religious observances, like the male MC's tzitzit and kippah, and the little ways that their Judaism affected their life.
However, I struggled with the characters themselves. Both seemed a bit fickle and immature, both toying with one another and going back and forth with their emotions. I had a hard time getting behind them, both individually and as a couple.
But an even bigger issue was the pacing. It took me absolutely ages to finish the story, and I found it to be very slow and hard to get through. After two weeks of forcing myself to read, I had to skim a bit in order to finish.
Maybe it's the fact that I don't really read any American romance, or maybe it's that this was my first experience with this author, but the book didn't quite measure up. Too bad, since the world needs more Jewish romance.
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This makes me utterly, utterly sad, but I did not love Dalliances & Devotion.
As a Jewish reader, I'm always on the lookout for books with Jewish protagonists, and bonus points if they aren't horribly depressing. A nice romance book with Jewish MCs, and bonus, a historical romance (my favorite), and I'm all in. I was so, so thrilled to see this book and this series, and I couldn't wait to try it. But, alas, it wasn't all that I was expecting.
I liked the Jewish aspects of the story most of all. I liked the signs of the characters' religious observances, like the male MC's tzitzit and kippah, and the little ways that their Judaism affected their life.
However, I struggled with the characters themselves. Both seemed a bit fickle and immature, both toying with one another and going back and forth with their emotions. I had a hard time getting behind them, both individually and as a couple.
But an even bigger issue was the pacing. It took me absolutely ages to finish the story, and I found it to be very slow and hard to get through. After two weeks of forcing myself to read, I had to skim a bit in order to finish.
Maybe it's the fact that I don't really read any American romance, or maybe it's that this was my first experience with this author, but the book didn't quite measure up. Too bad, since the world needs more Jewish romance.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
August 13, 2019
This is a story that some might pick up and not really give it a chance but just like Appetites and Vices you have to stay with the story. Beta heroes are not normally my go to reads but I have to say David is out of this world. The connection between David and Amalia is intense. Their story is interesting and the side characters do no detract but make the story even more interesting. These stories are different in a very good way. Love it!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
August 11, 2019
The Lady In Pink and the Pinkerton
Felicia Grossman's sophomore book is, in a word, wonderful.
Amalia Truitt is a glorious heroine. On the outside, she appears flighty and shallow. Twice divorced, fashion-forward, and the spoiled baby of her family, the exterior (and the usual societal expectations that go with those things) mask an interior that the rest of the world does not expect. Amalia knows exactly what most people think of women who present themselves as she does and she uses those expectations to her advantage.
David Zisskind is the Pinkerton her family hires to protect her as she travels home from the Midwest to Delaware for her nephew's bris. And he and Amalia have a history. So, we have historical second chance, enemies-to-lovers, bodyguard, road-trip romance with a Jewish hero and heroine.
Maybe I should have led with that. Because Grossman packs so much into this book. And not just tropes.
I highlighted a LOT of quotes, but I'll share just a few to give you an idea of how good it is. First up, here's David being wryly confessional about how he knows how to pleasure a woman despite having vanishingly little experience:
Oh, I didn't mention that David was a soldier in the Civil War with Amalia's two brothers, one of whom died in front of them. His PTSD from the war takes on a particular poignance with this memory:
We get to visit for a little bit with Amalia's parents, Ursula and Jay from Grosssman's first book, Appetites & Vices. Ursula continues to be very awesome:
And in the end, we get a delicious, swoony speech from David:
I was given an Advance Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Felicia Grossman's sophomore book is, in a word, wonderful.
Amalia Truitt is a glorious heroine. On the outside, she appears flighty and shallow. Twice divorced, fashion-forward, and the spoiled baby of her family, the exterior (and the usual societal expectations that go with those things) mask an interior that the rest of the world does not expect. Amalia knows exactly what most people think of women who present themselves as she does and she uses those expectations to her advantage.
David Zisskind is the Pinkerton her family hires to protect her as she travels home from the Midwest to Delaware for her nephew's bris. And he and Amalia have a history. So, we have historical second chance, enemies-to-lovers, bodyguard, road-trip romance with a Jewish hero and heroine.
Maybe I should have led with that. Because Grossman packs so much into this book. And not just tropes.
I highlighted a LOT of quotes, but I'll share just a few to give you an idea of how good it is. First up, here's David being wryly confessional about how he knows how to pleasure a woman despite having vanishingly little experience:
“First, I’m very skilled at finding interesting reading material. And second, there are only two topics men in the military talk about and I wasn’t that interested in weaponry.”
Oh, I didn't mention that David was a soldier in the Civil War with Amalia's two brothers, one of whom died in front of them. His PTSD from the war takes on a particular poignance with this memory:
We have to bury him. The sun’s setting and tomorrow’s Friday and we have to or it’ll be too late and we won’t at all. We can’t leave him like this. We have to bury him. We can’t wait. You know we can’t wait.
We get to visit for a little bit with Amalia's parents, Ursula and Jay from Grosssman's first book, Appetites & Vices. Ursula continues to be very awesome:
For her part, Mrs. Truitt sidled up to him to whisper the words “consider yourself lucky I have a long memory and am not a hypocrite” in his ear.
And in the end, we get a delicious, swoony speech from David:
“I love you, have always loved you, and just want to find a way to be with you, but so neither of us is at a disadvantage, where neither of us has to change too much. I want us to build a world together, not fit into each other’s, to be a family, no matter what we call it.”
I was given an Advance Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2019
Dalliances & Devotion by Felicia Grossman is book Two in The Truitts Series. This is the story of David Zisskind and Amalia Truitt. I have read the previous book but felt this could be a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Amalia is a beauty columnist who is also a twice Divorcee who help other women seek divorces who can't afford it. So she wants to return to Delaware to claim some of the Truitt family fortune which will help her fund her cause. But there have been death threats from a stalker and her family doesn't want her to travel without protection. Enter David who works for Pinkerton and looking to be promoted after doing this job. But Amalia and David have a past of love and heartache due to them breaking up and the lost of her brother/his friend in the war. David struggles with the past horrors that still effect him today.
David and Amalia have a long way to travel physically and mentally to get to where they need to be along with the danger that is following them.
Enjoyed their story.
Amalia is a beauty columnist who is also a twice Divorcee who help other women seek divorces who can't afford it. So she wants to return to Delaware to claim some of the Truitt family fortune which will help her fund her cause. But there have been death threats from a stalker and her family doesn't want her to travel without protection. Enter David who works for Pinkerton and looking to be promoted after doing this job. But Amalia and David have a past of love and heartache due to them breaking up and the lost of her brother/his friend in the war. David struggles with the past horrors that still effect him today.
David and Amalia have a long way to travel physically and mentally to get to where they need to be along with the danger that is following them.
Enjoyed their story.
September 4, 2019
David and Amalia story was wonderful and beautifully written, it was amazing to see them rekindling their lost love and finally finding happiness and their forever. Their HEA was sweet and beautiful.
The mystery in the story with the threats she was receiving also added to keep the reader intrigued and wanting to know who was behind them. I loved this book, it is now one of my absolutely favorites.
I received a free arc copy of this book from Carina Press Publishing via NetGalley, all the opinions here are my own.
The mystery in the story with the threats she was receiving also added to keep the reader intrigued and wanting to know who was behind them. I loved this book, it is now one of my absolutely favorites.
I received a free arc copy of this book from Carina Press Publishing via NetGalley, all the opinions here are my own.
August 4, 2019
Felicia Grossman manages takes a women's empowerment approach to historical romance that makes my heart swoon almost as much as her leading men. Dalliances & Devotion is another amazing journey down the road of heart and societal balance, all without risking the independence of her heroine. Historical and Contemporary readers alike will gobble up every delicious word, just like I did!
July 12, 2019
After two disastrous marriages, beauty columnist Amalia Truitt’s life is finally her ownwell, it will be if she can get herself back to Delaware and demand access to her share of the Truitt family fortune. After all, the charity she’s organized for women who can’t afford their own divorces won’t fund itself. When I started reading I couldn't put it down.Felicia Grossman is magnifysent and amazing writer.I cannot wait to read more of there books.Keep up the great work.You should definitely read this book.Can't wait for the next book.
July 6, 2019
Absolutely delightful and sexy!
💙1870s USA setting
💗Both main characters are Jewish
🗡Intrigue
💋Twice-divorced and completely unapologetic heroine.
🚃Trains
🚞cave sex
And SPOILER ALERT:
Felicia Grossman is writing some of the best "unusual" historical romances right now. I'm not typically drawn to the 1870-1900 time period, but Grossman and Joanna Schupe are changing my mind!
I've also never read a historical featuring Jewish characters, and this story shows the different ways one could be Jewish during this time period. Seeing David's struggle with being an immigrant, a non-native English speaker, someone who wears traditional Jewish religious items, and someone who had to flee his home because of being persecuted for his religious beliefs is fascinating. In a similar vein I liked the juxtaposition to Amalia's Jewish upbringing. Because she is American she is offered, as a woman, more opportunity to understand her faith. More education.
Besides the main couples' heritages, I also adore a heroine who takes charge of her life to the extent she can, isn't apologetic for her desires and wants, and has made mistakes and is learning from them. Amalia is twice-divorced for reasons and I loved that while David was jealous he never shames her.
I also really loved the second-chance aspects of this story. David and Amalia were teenage "lovers" (over the clothes only), and I just love when adults who have lived some of their lives can come back together with all that simmering angst still between them.
Plus trains! Makeup! Bustles! So many wonderful details to enjoy. A must read.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair review.
💙1870s USA setting
💗Both main characters are Jewish
🗡Intrigue
💋Twice-divorced and completely unapologetic heroine.
🚃Trains
🚞cave sex
And SPOILER ALERT:
Felicia Grossman is writing some of the best "unusual" historical romances right now. I'm not typically drawn to the 1870-1900 time period, but Grossman and Joanna Schupe are changing my mind!
I've also never read a historical featuring Jewish characters, and this story shows the different ways one could be Jewish during this time period. Seeing David's struggle with being an immigrant, a non-native English speaker, someone who wears traditional Jewish religious items, and someone who had to flee his home because of being persecuted for his religious beliefs is fascinating. In a similar vein I liked the juxtaposition to Amalia's Jewish upbringing. Because she is American she is offered, as a woman, more opportunity to understand her faith. More education.
Besides the main couples' heritages, I also adore a heroine who takes charge of her life to the extent she can, isn't apologetic for her desires and wants, and has made mistakes and is learning from them. Amalia is twice-divorced for reasons and I loved that while David was jealous he never shames her.
I also really loved the second-chance aspects of this story. David and Amalia were teenage "lovers" (over the clothes only), and I just love when adults who have lived some of their lives can come back together with all that simmering angst still between them.
Plus trains! Makeup! Bustles! So many wonderful details to enjoy. A must read.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair review.
September 12, 2019
Thanks to Carina Press for an e-arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
Felicia Grossman’s follow-up DALLIANCES AND DEVOTION was even more enjoyable for me than the previous book (which I loved, see review here https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). Again, we spend time with a historical Jewish American heroine (Ursula and Jay’s daughter) Amalia who has been through two quickie marriages and divorces and is trying to prove to her family that she isn’t a flighty (vacuous, vapid, verbose) flibbertigibbet. She writes a beauty column and has been targeted with hate mail that her family worries is life-threatening.
In comes David Sisskind, her teenaged crush, now Pinkerton on the job to keep her safe. Even though they broke each other’s hearts years ago, and neither has forgiven the other—they still find each other dangerously attractive.
I won’t spoil the story, but sparks fly and not only is there excellent chemistry between our heroine and hero, but the entire ensemble cast is well-drawn and enjoyable. Ms. Grossman handles diverse characters in historical settings with thoughtfulness and believability that is topical for a modern reader. Plus their banter is just delightful.
Fingers crossed that there is another installment to the family saga!
Felicia Grossman’s follow-up DALLIANCES AND DEVOTION was even more enjoyable for me than the previous book (which I loved, see review here https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). Again, we spend time with a historical Jewish American heroine (Ursula and Jay’s daughter) Amalia who has been through two quickie marriages and divorces and is trying to prove to her family that she isn’t a flighty (vacuous, vapid, verbose) flibbertigibbet. She writes a beauty column and has been targeted with hate mail that her family worries is life-threatening.
In comes David Sisskind, her teenaged crush, now Pinkerton on the job to keep her safe. Even though they broke each other’s hearts years ago, and neither has forgiven the other—they still find each other dangerously attractive.
I won’t spoil the story, but sparks fly and not only is there excellent chemistry between our heroine and hero, but the entire ensemble cast is well-drawn and enjoyable. Ms. Grossman handles diverse characters in historical settings with thoughtfulness and believability that is topical for a modern reader. Plus their banter is just delightful.
Fingers crossed that there is another installment to the family saga!
August 26, 2019
I love when series take you forward in time a generation. This was such a pleasure to read and be reacquainted with Ms. Grossmans clever take in American Historical Fiction.
Pairing a bold woman with a caring hero is a refreshing change in the genre and the story has both wit and heart. Solid sophomore book!
Pairing a bold woman with a caring hero is a refreshing change in the genre and the story has both wit and heart. Solid sophomore book!
August 29, 2019
After just two books Felicia Grossman has installed herself in my list of my favorite authors. Her sophomore novel, Dalliances & Devotion, is yet another wonderful story about one clever and endearing heroine. I loved this book!
Amalia Truitt is a heroine after my own heart. I was immediately intrigued by her from the synopsis because it mentioned her being a twice-divorcee and a beauty columnist. Those are both characteristics almost unheard of in historical romances. Then, there was the mention of a stalker! I was hooked and I wanted to get to know everything about Amalia and how she came to be at this stage of life. Felicia Grossman did not disappoint. She has written a heroine who is spirited, clever, and thoughtful. You initially think that she is spoiled and a little bit shallow in the beginning, but she quickly proved me wrong with her wit and emotional maturity. Amalia took life by the horns and did not care what others thought of. Amalia is not only a character I had utmost respect for, but she is also one who is easy to become attached to. I was profoundly invested in her and her journey and I simply could not wait to see her achieve her happily-ever-after.
Her family hires the stoic and intense David to protect her on a journey to her home of Delaware. David happens to be a man that Amalia shared a romantic history with. She broke his heart years back and upon reuiniting their feelings for each other begin to bubble again. I loved David's character as well. He perfectly balanced out Amalia's vivaciousness with his more serious but softer personality. The man had gone through absolute hell and more. We see his struggles with PTSD that the author handles respectfully. He didn't deserve any of the pain he was suffering through and my heart went out to him. I'm a big fan of soft and protective heroes and David epitomized a teddy-bear hero! Amalia and David's romance was full of so many wonderful tropes, my favorite being the second-chance romance. The author beautifully crafted a romance that is convincing and made of pure swoon. There were load of tense and romantic moments that had my heart aching. Not only did Dalliances & Devotion have an excellent romance, but the historical setting and plot were equally interesting. I loved how the author brought to light so many historically and currently relevant themes to this book.
I can't recommend Dalliances & Devotion and Felicia Grossman's debut, Appetites & Vices. It's got everything I could ask for from a good historical romance. I can't wait to see what the author has up her sleeves!
July 21, 2019
I was so, so excited to see the next book in the Truitts series was FINALLY coming out!! I'm a huge fan of Ms. Grossman's voice and style as an author. I couldn't wait to get my grubby little hands on the next installment of this delightful series, and I can attest... I was not disappointed. Grossman knows how to weave a tale, and her characterization is so on-point it ain't even funny. Plus, the realism of her historical elements and descriptions make the world she creates rich and bold. I can't wait to see more from this up-and-coming author!!
August 22, 2019
I just loved this book. So much. I really enjoyed the first in this series, Appetites and Vices, but Dalliances and Devotion just hit that special sweet spot for me. Amalia was a gem- she was devoted to her cause, her family, and of course to David. I loved her commitment to her work, and to supporting her family despite not always feeling supported by them. And David was such a fascinating character! I loved how both learned so much about themselves and what they really wanted out of life. Great book, I highly recommend it.
August 2, 2019
I loved this book and all the characters! Read the review on my blog!
September 9, 2019
Fabulous historical second-chance romance. Enjoyed every minute of this delightfully steamy romance with its jumping-off-the-page tension. You'll be rooting/yelling at these two to get together already in no time. Extremely enjoyable, highly suggest!
November 27, 2021
2021 Fall Bingo (#FallInLoveBingo🍂): Jewish MC
Suspense storyline didn’t work for me at all. Great worldbuilding. Fun to read about historical Pennsylvania/Philadelphia when I’m familiar with the modern-day equivalent.
Suspense storyline didn’t work for me at all. Great worldbuilding. Fun to read about historical Pennsylvania/Philadelphia when I’m familiar with the modern-day equivalent.
August 21, 2019
I received an e-arc of Dalliances & Devotion from Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This has in no way influenced my thoughts and feelings about the book.
Earlier this year I read Appetites & Vices, the first in this series and adored everything about it. When I heard there was going to be more books, I had to get on it. Dalliances & Devotion was such a fun and intense read, and I really enjoyed it so much.
Dalliances & Devotion follows Amalia Truitt as she travels back to Delaware after her second divorce has finally been finalised. And now she needs access to her family fortune because there are women depending on her. But after she starts receiving more death threats, travelling along isn't something that she can do. So her family send along David Zisskind, who's heart Amalia broke years ago. Now they have to cross Pennsylvania together with danger just around the corner, will they both make it back in one piece.
This was such a fun and intense read. I was both smiling and nervous about what was going to happen next. There is so much at stake in Dalliances & Devotion and both Amalia and David are put to the test. There is so much tension between Amalia and David which makes for such an interesting dynamic between the two of them. Add in the death threats and attempts and you have one hell of a ride.
Amalia was such an interesting character. I loved her fire and determination, but I also felt for her. At first, it seemed that Amalia was okay with being divorced twice. But there were times throughout the novel that I think it really hit her. While she never hinted at wanting a real family, deep down I think she did. She just never found the right person. In saying that I loved that Amalia got to really find herself throughout Dalliances & Devotion.
Felicia Grossman really knows how to write powerful and strong female characters in historical fiction and I can't wait to see what more she can bring.
David was also a really interesting character in Dalliances & Devotion. It did take me a little while to warm up to him. But as soon as his walls started to break down - he became more real. That is something I've noticed over the last couple of months, characters have to have some realness to them for me to connect with them. At first, David just seemed angry and very stubborn. He started to mellow out as the novel went on and he got closer with Amalia.
The romance in Dalliances & Devotion wasn't my favourite I'll admit. But I still really loved it. There were times when David's demeanour really put me off loving them together. However, as I started to like David more, I loved seeing him more with Amalia. I loved getting to know the history between the two of them and then seeing them grow as they are now.
One of the things I love about reading historical romance novels is the differences in characters that you can get. This all depends on what time it's set, where it's set, and even what it's all about. But that is also what makes them so fantastic. I really want to write a post soon more about this.
The plot of Dalliances & Devotion was really interesting. I loved that it wasn't just a basic historical romance per se. But it also had that crime element throughout. It definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. The reader is kept guessing on who is sending the threats and everything else that follows.
Okay, I'm going to have to admit to something. I can remember a lot of things, the one thing that always trips my mind is to remember names and characters. So it took me nearly the whole book to realise who Amalia was. And now I feel ashamed that it took me so long especially since I loved Appetites & Vices. I had to go back and re-read the synopsis for the first book for me to realise.
I also really loved the secondary characters throughout Dalliances & Devotion. Not only did they make it way more entertaining, but they also really helped with the flow of the book. It wasn't just David and Amalia stuck together, but everyone with them as well.
Overall, I really loved Dalliances & Devotion. It was fun, intense and full of romance. It's a great second chance romance in a historical setting. With a female character that is strong and willing to do what it takes for herself. I loved Amaila and I really got to like David as well. Together they were totally adorable. I can't wait to see what else Felicia Grossman brings. If you are looking for a historical romance with a little twist this is for you.
Earlier this year I read Appetites & Vices, the first in this series and adored everything about it. When I heard there was going to be more books, I had to get on it. Dalliances & Devotion was such a fun and intense read, and I really enjoyed it so much.
Dalliances & Devotion follows Amalia Truitt as she travels back to Delaware after her second divorce has finally been finalised. And now she needs access to her family fortune because there are women depending on her. But after she starts receiving more death threats, travelling along isn't something that she can do. So her family send along David Zisskind, who's heart Amalia broke years ago. Now they have to cross Pennsylvania together with danger just around the corner, will they both make it back in one piece.
This was such a fun and intense read. I was both smiling and nervous about what was going to happen next. There is so much at stake in Dalliances & Devotion and both Amalia and David are put to the test. There is so much tension between Amalia and David which makes for such an interesting dynamic between the two of them. Add in the death threats and attempts and you have one hell of a ride.
Amalia was such an interesting character. I loved her fire and determination, but I also felt for her. At first, it seemed that Amalia was okay with being divorced twice. But there were times throughout the novel that I think it really hit her. While she never hinted at wanting a real family, deep down I think she did. She just never found the right person. In saying that I loved that Amalia got to really find herself throughout Dalliances & Devotion.
Felicia Grossman really knows how to write powerful and strong female characters in historical fiction and I can't wait to see what more she can bring.
David was also a really interesting character in Dalliances & Devotion. It did take me a little while to warm up to him. But as soon as his walls started to break down - he became more real. That is something I've noticed over the last couple of months, characters have to have some realness to them for me to connect with them. At first, David just seemed angry and very stubborn. He started to mellow out as the novel went on and he got closer with Amalia.
The romance in Dalliances & Devotion wasn't my favourite I'll admit. But I still really loved it. There were times when David's demeanour really put me off loving them together. However, as I started to like David more, I loved seeing him more with Amalia. I loved getting to know the history between the two of them and then seeing them grow as they are now.
One of the things I love about reading historical romance novels is the differences in characters that you can get. This all depends on what time it's set, where it's set, and even what it's all about. But that is also what makes them so fantastic. I really want to write a post soon more about this.
The plot of Dalliances & Devotion was really interesting. I loved that it wasn't just a basic historical romance per se. But it also had that crime element throughout. It definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. The reader is kept guessing on who is sending the threats and everything else that follows.
Okay, I'm going to have to admit to something. I can remember a lot of things, the one thing that always trips my mind is to remember names and characters. So it took me nearly the whole book to realise who Amalia was. And now I feel ashamed that it took me so long especially since I loved Appetites & Vices. I had to go back and re-read the synopsis for the first book for me to realise.
I also really loved the secondary characters throughout Dalliances & Devotion. Not only did they make it way more entertaining, but they also really helped with the flow of the book. It wasn't just David and Amalia stuck together, but everyone with them as well.
Overall, I really loved Dalliances & Devotion. It was fun, intense and full of romance. It's a great second chance romance in a historical setting. With a female character that is strong and willing to do what it takes for herself. I loved Amaila and I really got to like David as well. Together they were totally adorable. I can't wait to see what else Felicia Grossman brings. If you are looking for a historical romance with a little twist this is for you.
August 22, 2019
It was a fun read, engrossing and well written.
Even if it's the second in a series I had no issues with the characters and the plot.
i liked the cast of characters, unusual and interesting, the well researched historical setting and the plot.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley, all opinions are mine.
Even if it's the second in a series I had no issues with the characters and the plot.
i liked the cast of characters, unusual and interesting, the well researched historical setting and the plot.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley, all opinions are mine.
September 12, 2019
I got about halfway through the first book by this author before giving up because it never really clicked. Then I decided to give this a try and I'm glad I did, as I really liked it. I think it's the first historical romance I've ever read where both the hero and heroine were Jewish! (That was one of the things I did not like about the first one -- it was billed as a great Jewish HR and then the hero is...not Jewish.) It was refreshing to see, however, that the couple from Appetites & Vices raised their children with strong Jewish identities, and that the author is clearly Jewish and there were no obvious errors about observance or other Jewy things. The other thing I really liked about this was that it had side characters (some minor, but still) that were diverse racially and by sexual orientation in a way that felt very real, and that one of those characters (the black one) gives the hero shit about his motivations for fighting (for the Union) in the Civil War.
If you're looking for an "unusual" (#ownvoices) historical romance, this one is great!
I received an e-arc from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
If you're looking for an "unusual" (#ownvoices) historical romance, this one is great!
I received an e-arc from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 17, 2019
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes. This in no way influences my review; all words, thoughts, and opinions are my own.
Content notes:
My favorite part of this book is how unapologetically Jewish it is. I loved seeing all the Yiddish and the discussions that came up around observance and how assimilation has worked for Jews in American history.
I enjoyed the second-chance romance between Amalia and David, but I liked the friendships with Meg and Will and the familial closeness with the Truitts even more (sorry, I’m weak for family bonds and friendship). Both Amalia and David have preconceived ideas about how their family sees them and need to work through those things in order to make their relationship work and find their way to each other. Amalia feels like she’s seen as silly and that her family thinks she’s made poor life choices after being married, and divorced, twice. David ran away from Russia after being conscripted in Tsar’s army and feeling like his cousin took his place in Hebrew school (he wanted to become a rabbi).
This has several great examinations on privilege, monetary/socioeconomic and racial, because it takes place not long after the civil war and Amalia and David come from drastically different financial backgrounds. They both wish to do good in the world, and have made differences in others’ lives, but also at times need to examine their privilege and whether what they’re doing helps others or only helps them feel better.
This was an enjoyable book and I liked the history and the characters. The ending was super sweet and I loved the way everything was resolved and Amalia and David talking about building their family in a way that works best for both of them, regardless of whether that means marriage or not. This does work as a stand-alone though Amalia is the youngest daughter of Jay and Ursula from Appetites & Vices and there are references and allusions to the first book. I especially love seeing a historical romance from a Jewish perspective because it’s definitely not a story I’ve come across before.
Content notes:
My favorite part of this book is how unapologetically Jewish it is. I loved seeing all the Yiddish and the discussions that came up around observance and how assimilation has worked for Jews in American history.
I enjoyed the second-chance romance between Amalia and David, but I liked the friendships with Meg and Will and the familial closeness with the Truitts even more (sorry, I’m weak for family bonds and friendship). Both Amalia and David have preconceived ideas about how their family sees them and need to work through those things in order to make their relationship work and find their way to each other. Amalia feels like she’s seen as silly and that her family thinks she’s made poor life choices after being married, and divorced, twice. David ran away from Russia after being conscripted in Tsar’s army and feeling like his cousin took his place in Hebrew school (he wanted to become a rabbi).
This has several great examinations on privilege, monetary/socioeconomic and racial, because it takes place not long after the civil war and Amalia and David come from drastically different financial backgrounds. They both wish to do good in the world, and have made differences in others’ lives, but also at times need to examine their privilege and whether what they’re doing helps others or only helps them feel better.
This was an enjoyable book and I liked the history and the characters. The ending was super sweet and I loved the way everything was resolved and Amalia and David talking about building their family in a way that works best for both of them, regardless of whether that means marriage or not. This does work as a stand-alone though Amalia is the youngest daughter of Jay and Ursula from Appetites & Vices and there are references and allusions to the first book. I especially love seeing a historical romance from a Jewish perspective because it’s definitely not a story I’ve come across before.
August 11, 2019
Dalliances and Devotion is the second book in the series “The Truitts” and follows Amalia Truitt, who is being threatened by a stalker. She has experienced two divorces and is currently working as a beauty columnist. The threats begin when Amalia begins her charity to assist women who are unable to fund their own divorces. As the threats become more serious, her brother calls in David Zisskind, as her security and a means of uncovering who is threatening Amalia. Several events occur to put Amalia and David together such that they can’t hide the feelings that have been simmering.
I did find Amalia’s character in the beginning a bit difficult to warm to, as she is quite a ‘princess’. David was a more likeable character, but I found it hard to believe that he would find her attractive and continue to see the goodness in her, despite her treatment of him. Yet, their growing romance was hard not to become absorbed in.
I must admit that I really enjoyed the first book in the series, so it is hard to live up to. However, it continues to be an interesting series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I did find Amalia’s character in the beginning a bit difficult to warm to, as she is quite a ‘princess’. David was a more likeable character, but I found it hard to believe that he would find her attractive and continue to see the goodness in her, despite her treatment of him. Yet, their growing romance was hard not to become absorbed in.
I must admit that I really enjoyed the first book in the series, so it is hard to live up to. However, it continues to be an interesting series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 9, 2023
A little different from any historical romance I've read before. I had no idea when I started the book the hero, heroine and their families are of the Jewish faith. Customs, clothing and Yiddish phases threw me off until what little knowledge I have started to kick into the flow of dialogue and descriptions. The heroine who has been divorced twice and works to help other women through a divorce, is under the protection of Pinkertons from death threats. Her former lover, David, is an agent and stays very close. He struggles with his feelings for Amalia, flashbacks to the battle of Gettysburg and the death of Amalia's brother Simon. Amalia struggles with her feelings for David and supporting her cause. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 15, 2020
This is book two of Ms. Grossman’s Truitt series. It’s a second chance romance also set in America like book one. I LOVE that it’s America set since so many historicals are UK or something.
I don’t read a lot of historical romances. They just aren’t my jam and that could be because they are usually European set and deal with Dukes, and Earls, and really I can’t get into all of that. The societal “norms” they try to set with the gender roles and all that, yeah I can do without. What I loved about the heroine in this book is she is different in that regard. Amalia is divorced! Not just once, but twice. Something that is (in my limited knowledge) unheard of in a historical romance. LOVED IT! Not only that, she runs an organization devoted to helping other women get divorces without being left destitute. BRILLIANT!
But…like with any good heroine, she has her flaws. Some of them could put her in the “unlikeable” category, and that is okay. When a lot of emphasis is put on being “not like other girls” Amalia embraced being exactly that. So what if she loved dresses and makeup. So what if she put time and thought into her appearance. She was proud of who she was and what she did, no matter how much people tried to talk down to her and tell her it was silly.
The hero, David, well I admit he got on my nerves a little. LOL I have been known to be tough on the guys. What can I say, I like my dudes to be devoted to their ladies and not give them a hard time. He spent a lot of the time acting on things he believed without bothering to get confirmation. That colored a lot of his interactions and behaviors and made me want to pull my hair out a time or two.
One thing he was devoted to was doing his job. He took pride in his work and would not be deterred no matter how much his longing for Amalia tried to distract him. They were perfectly opposite and it was so fun to read how they fed off each other, good and bad.
There is danger and a mystery. That dreaded miscommunication issue that always irks me, and some steamy sexy scenes. Overall this was an excellent follow up to her first book.
I don’t read a lot of historical romances. They just aren’t my jam and that could be because they are usually European set and deal with Dukes, and Earls, and really I can’t get into all of that. The societal “norms” they try to set with the gender roles and all that, yeah I can do without. What I loved about the heroine in this book is she is different in that regard. Amalia is divorced! Not just once, but twice. Something that is (in my limited knowledge) unheard of in a historical romance. LOVED IT! Not only that, she runs an organization devoted to helping other women get divorces without being left destitute. BRILLIANT!
But…like with any good heroine, she has her flaws. Some of them could put her in the “unlikeable” category, and that is okay. When a lot of emphasis is put on being “not like other girls” Amalia embraced being exactly that. So what if she loved dresses and makeup. So what if she put time and thought into her appearance. She was proud of who she was and what she did, no matter how much people tried to talk down to her and tell her it was silly.
The hero, David, well I admit he got on my nerves a little. LOL I have been known to be tough on the guys. What can I say, I like my dudes to be devoted to their ladies and not give them a hard time. He spent a lot of the time acting on things he believed without bothering to get confirmation. That colored a lot of his interactions and behaviors and made me want to pull my hair out a time or two.
One thing he was devoted to was doing his job. He took pride in his work and would not be deterred no matter how much his longing for Amalia tried to distract him. They were perfectly opposite and it was so fun to read how they fed off each other, good and bad.
There is danger and a mystery. That dreaded miscommunication issue that always irks me, and some steamy sexy scenes. Overall this was an excellent follow up to her first book.
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