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Lord Byron Mystery #2
A Shadowed Fate
A shocking revelation from an old friend leads Claire Clairmont on a dangerous quest in this second in a fascinating historical trilogy based on the 'summer of 1816' Byron/Shelley group.
1873, Florence. Claire Clairmont, the last survivor of the 'haunted summer of 1816' Byron/Shelley circle, is reeling from the series of events triggered by the arrival of Michael Rosetti two weeks before, which culminated in a brutal murder and a shocking revelation from her old friend, Edward Trewlany.
Stunned by her betrayal at the hands of those closest to her, Claire determines to travel to the convent at Bagnacavallo near Ravenna to learn the true fate of Allegra, her daughter by Lord Byron. But the valuable Cades sketch given to her by Rosetti is stolen, and Claire soon finds herself shadowed at every turn and in increasing danger as she embarks on her quest. Is the theft linked to Allegra, and can Claire uncover what really happened in Ravenna so many years ago?
1873, Florence. Claire Clairmont, the last survivor of the 'haunted summer of 1816' Byron/Shelley circle, is reeling from the series of events triggered by the arrival of Michael Rosetti two weeks before, which culminated in a brutal murder and a shocking revelation from her old friend, Edward Trewlany.
Stunned by her betrayal at the hands of those closest to her, Claire determines to travel to the convent at Bagnacavallo near Ravenna to learn the true fate of Allegra, her daughter by Lord Byron. But the valuable Cades sketch given to her by Rosetti is stolen, and Claire soon finds herself shadowed at every turn and in increasing danger as she embarks on her quest. Is the theft linked to Allegra, and can Claire uncover what really happened in Ravenna so many years ago?
180 pages, Hardcover
Published March 3, 2020
6 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Marty Ambrose-McLaughlin
11 books38 followersMarty Ambrose-McLaughlin is the author of the Claire Clairmont Historical Mysteries, which has earned starred reviews in Publisher's Weekly, as well as a gold medal in the Florida Writers Association's Literary Palm Awards. Her work has been featured internationally in blogs, journals, and websites.
Marty completed her M.Phil. at the University of York (England) and teaches nineteenth-century British literature, composition, and fiction writing at Florida Southwestern State College. She has also given numerous workshops in the U.S. and abroad on all aspects of creating/publishing a novel.
She has edited the FSW literary journal, served on student scholarship boards, and is a member of The Byron Society, Historical Novel Society, and Women's Fiction Writers Association.
Her new stand-alone historical mystery with women’s fiction elements, The Lost Dresses of Italy, will be published by Alcove Press in February, 2024. Marty is represented by Nicole Resciniti at The Seymour Agency.
Marty completed her M.Phil. at the University of York (England) and teaches nineteenth-century British literature, composition, and fiction writing at Florida Southwestern State College. She has also given numerous workshops in the U.S. and abroad on all aspects of creating/publishing a novel.
She has edited the FSW literary journal, served on student scholarship boards, and is a member of The Byron Society, Historical Novel Society, and Women's Fiction Writers Association.
Her new stand-alone historical mystery with women’s fiction elements, The Lost Dresses of Italy, will be published by Alcove Press in February, 2024. Marty is represented by Nicole Resciniti at The Seymour Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 25, 2020
Claire's quest continues at Ravenna!
I must admit to being more and more taken with Ambrose's tribute to the seemingly infamous Claire Clairmont, stepsister to Mary Shelley, and the propositional mystery surrounding Allegra Byron, Claire and Lord Byron's daughter, said to have died from typhus in the convent Byron had placed her in. The question becomes for Claire, did Allegra die or was this all a ruse to protect her from Byron's enemies?
Ambrose gives a genuine voice to Claire's life, presenting Claire in a more gracious light than others have.
The story is loaded with unknown threats for Claire and her traveling companions as she searches for the truth about Allegra. Made more so by the restrained yet menacing undercurrents.
I was much struck by the thoughtful reflections from the eighty year old Claire, particularly after having visited the convent at Ravenna.
"There are so many unknowns when it comes to how fate might have changed our lives –one small turn around a different corner, one altered decision –I cannot say how it would have turned out."
The scene where Claire hears the imaginary voice of the younger Allegra in her room at the convent is beautifully rendered. Here the story skips between Claire and Allegra as Claire reads Byron's confession. In that reading we come to know Byron through the memories of Claire, the mother of his daughter, and his own words.
Once again we end waiting for more to be revealed. I am in two minds as to whether I am enjoying the serialization approach to Claire's story' and yet it does give me space to reflect.
Whether Claire Clairmont has deserved the bad press she's had or not, I have little knowledge about. I am however thoroughly enjoying this look at these famous literary characters through the lens of a much kinder vision of an older Claire. I find the mature reflections Ambrose imbues Claire with in keeping with her age and experience.
A fascinating read.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley
I must admit to being more and more taken with Ambrose's tribute to the seemingly infamous Claire Clairmont, stepsister to Mary Shelley, and the propositional mystery surrounding Allegra Byron, Claire and Lord Byron's daughter, said to have died from typhus in the convent Byron had placed her in. The question becomes for Claire, did Allegra die or was this all a ruse to protect her from Byron's enemies?
Ambrose gives a genuine voice to Claire's life, presenting Claire in a more gracious light than others have.
The story is loaded with unknown threats for Claire and her traveling companions as she searches for the truth about Allegra. Made more so by the restrained yet menacing undercurrents.
I was much struck by the thoughtful reflections from the eighty year old Claire, particularly after having visited the convent at Ravenna.
"There are so many unknowns when it comes to how fate might have changed our lives –one small turn around a different corner, one altered decision –I cannot say how it would have turned out."
The scene where Claire hears the imaginary voice of the younger Allegra in her room at the convent is beautifully rendered. Here the story skips between Claire and Allegra as Claire reads Byron's confession. In that reading we come to know Byron through the memories of Claire, the mother of his daughter, and his own words.
Once again we end waiting for more to be revealed. I am in two minds as to whether I am enjoying the serialization approach to Claire's story' and yet it does give me space to reflect.
Whether Claire Clairmont has deserved the bad press she's had or not, I have little knowledge about. I am however thoroughly enjoying this look at these famous literary characters through the lens of a much kinder vision of an older Claire. I find the mature reflections Ambrose imbues Claire with in keeping with her age and experience.
A fascinating read.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley
June 11, 2021
This is book 2 in the Lord Byron Mystery series and although this one stands fine on its own, I think it would be better if read in order to have the background and exposure to more developed characters.
Although I am a fan of historical fiction, I usually focus on the early 1900s. This was a great period piece set in the 1800s. I loved the references to Mary Shelley (the author of Frankenstein), and the gorgeous setting in Italy. It was great exposure to a new era.
The reader should be warned that the ending solidly sets the stage for book 3. If you like cliffhangers, this is definitely for you.
Thank you Kate Rock Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in this tour.
Although I am a fan of historical fiction, I usually focus on the early 1900s. This was a great period piece set in the 1800s. I loved the references to Mary Shelley (the author of Frankenstein), and the gorgeous setting in Italy. It was great exposure to a new era.
The reader should be warned that the ending solidly sets the stage for book 3. If you like cliffhangers, this is definitely for you.
Thank you Kate Rock Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in this tour.
July 12, 2020
I’ve been looking forward to this one for a while. I absolutely love the cover and I thought the premise sounded fun and different.
I knew it was part of a series (it’s the second book) but I figured that it could be read as a standalone since most of the time, authors of series usually do a great job filling new readers in on things that happened in the previous book.
The other thing I liked about this one was that it was on the shorter side (just under 200 pages) so more like a novella length so I figured it would be a very quick read for me.
The first thing that I noticed right away was this book was NOT meant to be read as a standalone. There appeared to be a lot of plot points in the book that were built on the first book so I think I should have taken the time to go back and read the first book in the series before this one. The other thing that I noticed was this some people categorized this as a mystery. The title on Goodreads shows it as the Claire Clairmont series and on Amazon it’s call The Lord Byron Mystery series so that could be confusing. I felt that it had some mystery elements, but I didn’t consider it a historical mystery. I would say it’s more historical fiction rather than mystery.
Both of the books in this series are under 200 pages and I found myself wondering why they wouldn’t have been combined into a single full length book rather than making them more like short stories or novellas? In some ways I think it would have made the book stronger to have a single longer novel.
Other than those couple of things, the story was, overall, well written and researched. The author clearly has a love for her characters as well as the time period and her love showed in this book. I enjoyed the characters and the story but I think I would have loved it more had I read the previous book. Claire was a great feisty character and I loved getting to know her, though in this book she is older and I would have liked to have seen her character development from book one through now.
It was really hard for me to rate this book, on one hand I felt really handicapped having not read the first book, but on the other hand the writing was great and so was the historical research and I loved the main character Claire, in the end I went with 3 stars. It was good but definitely need to read the first book.
See my full review here
I knew it was part of a series (it’s the second book) but I figured that it could be read as a standalone since most of the time, authors of series usually do a great job filling new readers in on things that happened in the previous book.
The other thing I liked about this one was that it was on the shorter side (just under 200 pages) so more like a novella length so I figured it would be a very quick read for me.
The first thing that I noticed right away was this book was NOT meant to be read as a standalone. There appeared to be a lot of plot points in the book that were built on the first book so I think I should have taken the time to go back and read the first book in the series before this one. The other thing that I noticed was this some people categorized this as a mystery. The title on Goodreads shows it as the Claire Clairmont series and on Amazon it’s call The Lord Byron Mystery series so that could be confusing. I felt that it had some mystery elements, but I didn’t consider it a historical mystery. I would say it’s more historical fiction rather than mystery.
Both of the books in this series are under 200 pages and I found myself wondering why they wouldn’t have been combined into a single full length book rather than making them more like short stories or novellas? In some ways I think it would have made the book stronger to have a single longer novel.
Other than those couple of things, the story was, overall, well written and researched. The author clearly has a love for her characters as well as the time period and her love showed in this book. I enjoyed the characters and the story but I think I would have loved it more had I read the previous book. Claire was a great feisty character and I loved getting to know her, though in this book she is older and I would have liked to have seen her character development from book one through now.
It was really hard for me to rate this book, on one hand I felt really handicapped having not read the first book, but on the other hand the writing was great and so was the historical research and I loved the main character Claire, in the end I went with 3 stars. It was good but definitely need to read the first book.
See my full review here
July 11, 2021
We continue Claire's journey of finding her daughter and pulling together some pieces to a mysterious puzzle. There's a little danger as Claire bravely searches for the answers to her ongoing quests. The writing is beautiful and eloquent and evokes a time and place that feels so very real. Can't wait for book 3!
June 10, 2021
A Shadowed Fate by @martyislandauthor is a very well-researched and beautifully written historical fiction.
I enjoyed the details in this book and could easily connect with the characters.
This is the second book of Lord Byron trilogy and I recommend that you read the first one before you read this.
If you like a well-written historical fiction with an unexpected twist at the end, then this one is for you.
I enjoyed the details in this book and could easily connect with the characters.
This is the second book of Lord Byron trilogy and I recommend that you read the first one before you read this.
If you like a well-written historical fiction with an unexpected twist at the end, then this one is for you.
June 24, 2021
Beautifully written, gorgeous historical detail, an engaging mystery, and a twisty, surprise ending— A Shadowed Fate does not disappoint. Marty Ambrose does a superb job of breathing life into the indomitable Claire Clairmont, while shining a multi-faceted light on some of the greatest literary giants of our time. Highly recommend!
January 13, 2020
I so enjoy this series! My only complaint is the ending which is a bit of a cliffhanger. My understanding is that this is a proposed trilogy so I assume all story threads will be wrapped up in the next installment. Just have to wait now!
October 6, 2025
Claire's quest continues ....the 2nd book in the series. i found this not quite as good as the first novel...but I'm still awarding this 4 stars ✨️ because of the writing style it is exquisite and gives a wonderful sense of a time we can only imagine...the Characters are cast well and the narrative and dialogue give us a wonderful glimpse of these byronesque sleuths.
Sign me up for the last book in the trilogy.
Sign me up for the last book in the trilogy.
March 4, 2020
In this second book of the Lord Byron Mystery trilogy, Claire Clairmont has grown old but not elderly. She has lived through the loss of Lord Byron, the man she loved even after he left her for another woman. Many years ago, she bore his daughter but realized she could not raise her alone. It was not acceptable in 1816. She sent her child, Allegra, to live with Lord Byron. For reasons unclear to Claire, he sent Allegra to live in a convent where the child succumbed to illness and died. But recent revelations have hinted that Claire’s daughter lives. She is determined to find her daughter before she dies. So begins her quest for the truth.
Claire lives with her niece and grandniece in genteel poverty. She has personal letters from Lord Byron that would fetch a more than generous price, but cannot let go of the writings of a man she loved so deeply. When Trelawny, a man she and Byron once knew, brings her a valuable sketch that Byron wanted her to have, she sees relief in their money situation. But Trelawny also brings her hope that her daughter has not died, but had been hidden away by Byron because she was in grave danger.
Danger has touched Claire and her family before, bringing death and sorrow into their home. Now, amidst the hope of finding Allegra, Claire and her loved ones are robbed of the sketch that would have eased their money problems. More disconcerting is the fact that Claire and those she loved may now be in mortal danger. Getting closer to discovering the secrets of the past could prove fatal for one or all of them.
A Shadowed Fate is a continuation of Claire’s Secret. While I do not think anyone would be confused by reading it without reading the first book in the series, I still recommend reading them in order. The fascinating way Ms. Ambrose weaves the real-life drama of Claire, Lord Byron and Mary Shelly (author of Frankenstein and Claire’s step-sister) into the plot takes the readers to a different level than most mysteries. But do not discount the solid plot lines and twist in the mystery of Allegra’s fate and the person or persons that are willing to do anything to obtain items associated with Lord Byron.
By opening both Claire’s Secret and A Shadowed Fate the reader must slow down a bit to appreciate the style in which Ms. Ambrose writes. It is literary, yet contemporary and easy to read. The prose takes readers to a different place than most current novels. Each chapter has quotes from The Prophecy of Dante written by Lord Bryon in 1819, published in 1821, setting the scene for the reader to settle back and enjoy. I highly recommending you do just that.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review. Copyright ©2020 Laura Hartman
Claire lives with her niece and grandniece in genteel poverty. She has personal letters from Lord Byron that would fetch a more than generous price, but cannot let go of the writings of a man she loved so deeply. When Trelawny, a man she and Byron once knew, brings her a valuable sketch that Byron wanted her to have, she sees relief in their money situation. But Trelawny also brings her hope that her daughter has not died, but had been hidden away by Byron because she was in grave danger.
Danger has touched Claire and her family before, bringing death and sorrow into their home. Now, amidst the hope of finding Allegra, Claire and her loved ones are robbed of the sketch that would have eased their money problems. More disconcerting is the fact that Claire and those she loved may now be in mortal danger. Getting closer to discovering the secrets of the past could prove fatal for one or all of them.
A Shadowed Fate is a continuation of Claire’s Secret. While I do not think anyone would be confused by reading it without reading the first book in the series, I still recommend reading them in order. The fascinating way Ms. Ambrose weaves the real-life drama of Claire, Lord Byron and Mary Shelly (author of Frankenstein and Claire’s step-sister) into the plot takes the readers to a different level than most mysteries. But do not discount the solid plot lines and twist in the mystery of Allegra’s fate and the person or persons that are willing to do anything to obtain items associated with Lord Byron.
By opening both Claire’s Secret and A Shadowed Fate the reader must slow down a bit to appreciate the style in which Ms. Ambrose writes. It is literary, yet contemporary and easy to read. The prose takes readers to a different place than most current novels. Each chapter has quotes from The Prophecy of Dante written by Lord Bryon in 1819, published in 1821, setting the scene for the reader to settle back and enjoy. I highly recommending you do just that.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review. Copyright ©2020 Laura Hartman
February 5, 2020
This review was originally posted on my blog,
Paradise Found
.
I received a free ebook copy of this book from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I've been waiting for A Shadowed Fate for a long time and here it is at last. Marty Ambrose managed to pull me in with her first book in her Claire series so much, that in the past 1.5 years I've been checking and rechecking if there were any news about the second instalment. It hits the shelves shortly, and I received a copy on NetGalley, so here is what I think.
I flew through this novel as well as the first one. They are quite short which is a shame. In ASF Claire is going on a road trip with her friend Trelawny and her small family in order to find out what happened to her daughter, Allegra, when she lived in the convent of Bagnacavallo. While on the road a dangerous stranger seems to be on their heels, and with Byron and Shelley's valuable letters in her pocket Claire has to look over her shoulder continuously if she wants to keep her loved ones safe.
Like in Claire's Last Secret, here we got glimpses into the past too, this time of Byron's years in Ravenna, when he supported the Carbonari's revolution for a united Italy. Through journal entries the reader gets caught up in a shoot-out at the fringe of a forest, where Byron is the target, and an equally heated situation on the streets of Ravenna, where once again, bullets fly low. It was an interesting addition to the book, because I've never really read much of this part of Byron's life before.
I also enjoyed the child Allegra's journal entries and was glad the author gave her a voice. I'm looking forward to read more of her story later.
Claire and Trelawny's relationship develops quite a lot in this novel and we hear more of the one night they spent together in the past. We are also given reasons why it never really worked out between the two and we are left with a big question mark regarding their future relationship. Another reason for me to want to read the third book.
Diving into Marty Ambrose's prose was easy, as if I had just finished the first book and picked up the second right after. She's got a very clear style and she makes you care and root for her characters. It still surprises me, but with some magic she makes me like Claire, while I've never really cared much for her before.
Sign me up for the last book in the trilogy, I'm still in!
I received a free ebook copy of this book from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I've been waiting for A Shadowed Fate for a long time and here it is at last. Marty Ambrose managed to pull me in with her first book in her Claire series so much, that in the past 1.5 years I've been checking and rechecking if there were any news about the second instalment. It hits the shelves shortly, and I received a copy on NetGalley, so here is what I think.
I flew through this novel as well as the first one. They are quite short which is a shame. In ASF Claire is going on a road trip with her friend Trelawny and her small family in order to find out what happened to her daughter, Allegra, when she lived in the convent of Bagnacavallo. While on the road a dangerous stranger seems to be on their heels, and with Byron and Shelley's valuable letters in her pocket Claire has to look over her shoulder continuously if she wants to keep her loved ones safe.
Like in Claire's Last Secret, here we got glimpses into the past too, this time of Byron's years in Ravenna, when he supported the Carbonari's revolution for a united Italy. Through journal entries the reader gets caught up in a shoot-out at the fringe of a forest, where Byron is the target, and an equally heated situation on the streets of Ravenna, where once again, bullets fly low. It was an interesting addition to the book, because I've never really read much of this part of Byron's life before.
I also enjoyed the child Allegra's journal entries and was glad the author gave her a voice. I'm looking forward to read more of her story later.
Claire and Trelawny's relationship develops quite a lot in this novel and we hear more of the one night they spent together in the past. We are also given reasons why it never really worked out between the two and we are left with a big question mark regarding their future relationship. Another reason for me to want to read the third book.
Diving into Marty Ambrose's prose was easy, as if I had just finished the first book and picked up the second right after. She's got a very clear style and she makes you care and root for her characters. It still surprises me, but with some magic she makes me like Claire, while I've never really cared much for her before.
Sign me up for the last book in the trilogy, I'm still in!
June 2, 2020
Will Claire ever know the truth about Allegra’s fate?
First, anyone wishing to read this book must first read the previous book, Claire’s Last Secret. This novel picks up exactly where the other left off and builds upon events and characters previously introduced.
I truly enjoyed getting to know Claire in the first book, and I relished the opportunity to spend more time with her not only to learn more about her past, but also to follow her quest for the truth about her daughter’s fate. Claire has always had a vibrant personality, and while she is less impulsive than she was in her youth, old age has done little to dim her spirit. I’m also pleased to say I saw a lot of character growth in Claire in this installment. In the first book, Claire seemed like a woman still haunted by her past in many ways. She never got over Byron, and she carries a lot of hurt regarding her relationship with him. Claire and her sister Mary did not part on good terms either. In A Shadowed Fate, Claire begins to find some closure. As Claire travels through Italy, she has the opportunity to reflect on various parts of her past, and in doing so begins to forgive not only others, but herself. These glimpses into the past reveal the events that made Claire the woman she is.
Ms. Ambrose has chosen to tell this story in a slightly different format. Claire’s Last Secret was told with sections that alternated between Claire’s life in 1816 and 1873. This book alternates between Claire’s adventures 1873, old journal entries from Allegra, and sections Claire reads from Byron’s confession. I enjoyed the different perspectives, and I especially enjoyed seeing Byron through the eyes of his daughter in her journal entries.
As with the first novel, A Shadowed Fate is not a story to race through. While the danger surrounding Claire and her mission are very real, the beauty of the scenery and atmosphere is what I’ll remember most when I think about this book.
The conclusion is satisfying if a bit abrupt given the story’s leisurely pace. Some pieces of the mystery surrounding Claire’s daughter have been solved, but Claire’s journey is far from over. Ms. Ambrose has again left me wanting to know more!
I’m delighted that I had the opportunity to continue reading this series. I highly recommend A Shadowed Fate to anyone wanting to lose themselves in the Italian ambience Ms. Ambrose has created.
First, anyone wishing to read this book must first read the previous book, Claire’s Last Secret. This novel picks up exactly where the other left off and builds upon events and characters previously introduced.
I truly enjoyed getting to know Claire in the first book, and I relished the opportunity to spend more time with her not only to learn more about her past, but also to follow her quest for the truth about her daughter’s fate. Claire has always had a vibrant personality, and while she is less impulsive than she was in her youth, old age has done little to dim her spirit. I’m also pleased to say I saw a lot of character growth in Claire in this installment. In the first book, Claire seemed like a woman still haunted by her past in many ways. She never got over Byron, and she carries a lot of hurt regarding her relationship with him. Claire and her sister Mary did not part on good terms either. In A Shadowed Fate, Claire begins to find some closure. As Claire travels through Italy, she has the opportunity to reflect on various parts of her past, and in doing so begins to forgive not only others, but herself. These glimpses into the past reveal the events that made Claire the woman she is.
Ms. Ambrose has chosen to tell this story in a slightly different format. Claire’s Last Secret was told with sections that alternated between Claire’s life in 1816 and 1873. This book alternates between Claire’s adventures 1873, old journal entries from Allegra, and sections Claire reads from Byron’s confession. I enjoyed the different perspectives, and I especially enjoyed seeing Byron through the eyes of his daughter in her journal entries.
As with the first novel, A Shadowed Fate is not a story to race through. While the danger surrounding Claire and her mission are very real, the beauty of the scenery and atmosphere is what I’ll remember most when I think about this book.
The conclusion is satisfying if a bit abrupt given the story’s leisurely pace. Some pieces of the mystery surrounding Claire’s daughter have been solved, but Claire’s journey is far from over. Ms. Ambrose has again left me wanting to know more!
I’m delighted that I had the opportunity to continue reading this series. I highly recommend A Shadowed Fate to anyone wanting to lose themselves in the Italian ambience Ms. Ambrose has created.
March 27, 2020
My thanks to Severn House for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘A Shadowed Fate’ by Marty Ambrose in exchange for an honest review.
From Publisher: “1873, Florence. Claire Clairmont, the last survivor of the 'haunted summer of 1816' Byron/Shelley circle, is reeling from the series of events triggered by the arrival of Michael Rosetti two weeks before, which culminated in a brutal murder and a shocking revelation from her old friend, Edward Trewlany.”
I have previously encountered Claire Clairmont in various works of fiction and non fiction so had some knowledge of her life before reading this novel.
When I requested this I hadn’t noticed that it was the second in a trilogy and although a brief summary of the events of ‘Claire’s Last Secret’ was provided at the beginning, I really felt as though I should have read them in order.
Still, I carried on reading and found it a beautifully written work of historical fiction. Clearly Ambrose had undertaken considerable research into the life of Claire Clairmont and her circle. I felt that she brought both her characters and the period setting vividly to life.
Clair serves as the narrator and now in her mid-70s is not only reflecting upon her youth with the perspective of maturity but is having new adventures, some quite harrowing. She emerges as a strong woman, a survivor, who has created a life for herself and her family against the odds.
She is philosophical about her time with Byron and the Shelleys: “history always sided with those whose fame extended beyond their lives like a drama with no end … never with the bit players in the wings. That had been my role, and so be it.”
I have now purchased the first novel and after reading it, will likely reread this one and be on the lookout for the conclusion to this fascinating literary historical mystery.
From Publisher: “1873, Florence. Claire Clairmont, the last survivor of the 'haunted summer of 1816' Byron/Shelley circle, is reeling from the series of events triggered by the arrival of Michael Rosetti two weeks before, which culminated in a brutal murder and a shocking revelation from her old friend, Edward Trewlany.”
I have previously encountered Claire Clairmont in various works of fiction and non fiction so had some knowledge of her life before reading this novel.
When I requested this I hadn’t noticed that it was the second in a trilogy and although a brief summary of the events of ‘Claire’s Last Secret’ was provided at the beginning, I really felt as though I should have read them in order.
Still, I carried on reading and found it a beautifully written work of historical fiction. Clearly Ambrose had undertaken considerable research into the life of Claire Clairmont and her circle. I felt that she brought both her characters and the period setting vividly to life.
Clair serves as the narrator and now in her mid-70s is not only reflecting upon her youth with the perspective of maturity but is having new adventures, some quite harrowing. She emerges as a strong woman, a survivor, who has created a life for herself and her family against the odds.
She is philosophical about her time with Byron and the Shelleys: “history always sided with those whose fame extended beyond their lives like a drama with no end … never with the bit players in the wings. That had been my role, and so be it.”
I have now purchased the first novel and after reading it, will likely reread this one and be on the lookout for the conclusion to this fascinating literary historical mystery.
March 31, 2020
Claire is mainly preoccupied with finding out what really happened to her daughter, Allegra, whose father was the poet Lord Byron. She travels to the convent where history records Allegra as having died when she was a child. Sinister events occur en route.
Yet I considered a Byron memoir that deals with the period when Byron sent Allegra to the convent as the true heart of the narrative. We don't know if Byron wrote such a memoir. If he did, it didn't survive. According to A Shadowed Fate, Byron had given his friend, Edward Trelawny this memoir and Trelawny had copied it. Trelawny is a significant character in this novel. In A Shadowed Fate, he gave the copy of Byron's memoir to Claire, and she read it during the course of the narrative. This is a Byron I had never previously encountered. He isn't at all like Byron as he is commonly portrayed. It raises the possibility that the motives for some of Byron's actions may have been misunderstood. The memoir also reveals dangerous secrets that I found very intriguing.
Although the case of the stolen sketch is solved, Claire continues to have no clarity about the fate of Allegra. Presumably, we will learn more in Marty Ambrose's third novel of Claire Claremont's journey of discoveries. I will definitely want to read it.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
Yet I considered a Byron memoir that deals with the period when Byron sent Allegra to the convent as the true heart of the narrative. We don't know if Byron wrote such a memoir. If he did, it didn't survive. According to A Shadowed Fate, Byron had given his friend, Edward Trelawny this memoir and Trelawny had copied it. Trelawny is a significant character in this novel. In A Shadowed Fate, he gave the copy of Byron's memoir to Claire, and she read it during the course of the narrative. This is a Byron I had never previously encountered. He isn't at all like Byron as he is commonly portrayed. It raises the possibility that the motives for some of Byron's actions may have been misunderstood. The memoir also reveals dangerous secrets that I found very intriguing.
Although the case of the stolen sketch is solved, Claire continues to have no clarity about the fate of Allegra. Presumably, we will learn more in Marty Ambrose's third novel of Claire Claremont's journey of discoveries. I will definitely want to read it.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
April 29, 2020
A Shadowed Fate by Marty Ambrose as reviewed by Gail M. Murray
This sequel to Claire’s Last Secret continues the life of Mary Shelley’s half-sister - Claire Clairmont. Both novels refer to the halcyon summer of 1816 on Lake Geneva when Mary penned Frankenstein and Claire’s brief affair with Lord Byron produced a daughter, Allegra.
Shadow images sprinkled throughout the novel refer to a shadowy rider pursuing Claire on her quest to the Convent of San Giovanni in Ravenna, Italy searching out the truth of her daughter’s death of typhoid and Claire and Mary’s lives with their share of shadows both having lost children to death. The most touching scene is when Clair touches the initials Allegra carved into her convent cell.
With minimal plot and action, the slow-moving scenes unfold like a foreign film. The real journey is a psychological one as Claire reflects on Byron the brilliant poet, rakish legend and most infamous literati of his time. As she reads his memoir, given to her by his friend Trewlany, the lonely man and kindly father emerges. The final chapters culminate in a sudden climax. Claire finally feels at peace until it is revealed that Allegra’s novice caregiver is now the current Mother Abbess. Ambrose teases the reader leaving the door open for her final book in the Lord Byron Mystery Series.
Rather than spread this story over three padded somewhat repetitive novels, why not write a tight, satisfying single piece?
This sequel to Claire’s Last Secret continues the life of Mary Shelley’s half-sister - Claire Clairmont. Both novels refer to the halcyon summer of 1816 on Lake Geneva when Mary penned Frankenstein and Claire’s brief affair with Lord Byron produced a daughter, Allegra.
Shadow images sprinkled throughout the novel refer to a shadowy rider pursuing Claire on her quest to the Convent of San Giovanni in Ravenna, Italy searching out the truth of her daughter’s death of typhoid and Claire and Mary’s lives with their share of shadows both having lost children to death. The most touching scene is when Clair touches the initials Allegra carved into her convent cell.
With minimal plot and action, the slow-moving scenes unfold like a foreign film. The real journey is a psychological one as Claire reflects on Byron the brilliant poet, rakish legend and most infamous literati of his time. As she reads his memoir, given to her by his friend Trewlany, the lonely man and kindly father emerges. The final chapters culminate in a sudden climax. Claire finally feels at peace until it is revealed that Allegra’s novice caregiver is now the current Mother Abbess. Ambrose teases the reader leaving the door open for her final book in the Lord Byron Mystery Series.
Rather than spread this story over three padded somewhat repetitive novels, why not write a tight, satisfying single piece?
October 11, 2020
Maybe a 2.5. This rating may not be fair, as I have a hunch that I would have enjoyed the book more if I had read the first in the series, but it only reflects my own personal experience of it. I also feel that, as someone else said, it probably should have been presented as historical fiction rather than a mystery, and (while not necessarily the author's fault), the designation "a Lord Byron mystery" seemed positively deceptive to me, since that implies to me that the person named is the detective in the "mystery," not someone who is the subject of it. Expecting an actual mystery in the usual sense, I found it slow-moving and somewhat boring, and in the short span of the book was not able to adjust my expectations.
(A related rant that has nothing to do with this particular book except insofar as it provides an example: This is literally the second book I have picked up at the library inside of a month that gives no indication that it is one - and not the first one - of a series. Is it too much to ask for publishers to make that clear either on the cover or at least in the description, especially if the stories in the books of the series are interlinked to the extent that they really should be read in order?)
(A related rant that has nothing to do with this particular book except insofar as it provides an example: This is literally the second book I have picked up at the library inside of a month that gives no indication that it is one - and not the first one - of a series. Is it too much to ask for publishers to make that clear either on the cover or at least in the description, especially if the stories in the books of the series are interlinked to the extent that they really should be read in order?)
June 7, 2021
Wow, what an incredible start to a book. In the first few pages you discover Clair’s daughter Allegra could still be alive.. a mystery which you instantly know is going to be revealed.. but, you have no idea how or when.
As the reasons behind start to take place you really start to question who are the people involved, what do they do. Is it as corrupt as you want to imagine it to be. You anticipate the mystery every single page you turn. Jam packed with secret societies and assassinations. The book has many shadows. It begins to heat up when they embark on a journey.
I did struggle with how the book was written due to the era and based in Florence. However, it only meant that it took me a little bit longer to process and read. I adored Clair as a character, especially at her “advanced age’”, she sounds, protective, powerful and beautiful. Additionally, if you love poetry you’ll absolutely adore this read. On top of it all if you enjoy the book being told from other characters perspectives you’ll love this. I adore that it goes back and tells the story from Byron and Allegra’s perspective.
The twist at the end was so unexpected I absolutely loved how it all came together in the end. Im really hoping there’s going to be a second book as it was left on such a cliff hanger.
As the reasons behind start to take place you really start to question who are the people involved, what do they do. Is it as corrupt as you want to imagine it to be. You anticipate the mystery every single page you turn. Jam packed with secret societies and assassinations. The book has many shadows. It begins to heat up when they embark on a journey.
I did struggle with how the book was written due to the era and based in Florence. However, it only meant that it took me a little bit longer to process and read. I adored Clair as a character, especially at her “advanced age’”, she sounds, protective, powerful and beautiful. Additionally, if you love poetry you’ll absolutely adore this read. On top of it all if you enjoy the book being told from other characters perspectives you’ll love this. I adore that it goes back and tells the story from Byron and Allegra’s perspective.
The twist at the end was so unexpected I absolutely loved how it all came together in the end. Im really hoping there’s going to be a second book as it was left on such a cliff hanger.
January 10, 2021
Shortly after hearing some life-altering news from an old friend, Claire is figuring out how to process what she has just learned. In the second book of the "Lord Byron" trilogy, "A Shadowed Fate", Claire does some internal and external exploring to figure out if she has the correct view of people and to determine what secrets are being kept from her that are now coming to light. The story begins within weeks of the end of "Claire's Last Secret". The violent events are still fresh in Claire's mind, but she must push past those to find out if her daughter Allegra is still alive. Ambrose has written the storyline from two key characters’ perspectives. This story is sure to be enjoyed for its excitement and historical details.
Reading Ambrose's stories feel effortless as the pages go by. She has developed her characters to have much depth and realism. The events in the book are easy to be imagined, and the feelings displayed by the characters are believable and evidenced through the audience feeling for the character. I am anxious for the final book in this trilogy to be released to join Claire and her family in discovering and accepting closure.
Reading Ambrose's stories feel effortless as the pages go by. She has developed her characters to have much depth and realism. The events in the book are easy to be imagined, and the feelings displayed by the characters are believable and evidenced through the audience feeling for the character. I am anxious for the final book in this trilogy to be released to join Claire and her family in discovering and accepting closure.
April 27, 2021
As Claire is dragged into a mysterious adventure of chasing the ghosts of old romantic poets in Italy, readers get an inside look on a fictional yet nostalgic world where rich history and culture come together.
Claire Clairmont has become a very aged woman who is planning to spend her autumn in Florence with her niece Paula and Georgiana. Having lost her former lover, Byron and their love child - Allegra, she is determined to follow her good friend Edward Trelawney into finding the truth about her child by tracing the remains of literature that Byron had left all across Italy. She finds out that her child may still be alive and continues on her quest. Glimpses of art and romantic literature pose as the main focus for this story and is a very interesting and memorable read.
For anyone with keen interest in Romantic Period literature and artists of that era, it is a very informative and beautiful story and can be considered a " historical fanfiction". It takes the reader back in time, where passion, vengeance and intense yet elegant scenes are portrayed. Anyone would be able to enjoy it as it is aesthetically pleasing as well.
Claire Clairmont has become a very aged woman who is planning to spend her autumn in Florence with her niece Paula and Georgiana. Having lost her former lover, Byron and their love child - Allegra, she is determined to follow her good friend Edward Trelawney into finding the truth about her child by tracing the remains of literature that Byron had left all across Italy. She finds out that her child may still be alive and continues on her quest. Glimpses of art and romantic literature pose as the main focus for this story and is a very interesting and memorable read.
For anyone with keen interest in Romantic Period literature and artists of that era, it is a very informative and beautiful story and can be considered a " historical fanfiction". It takes the reader back in time, where passion, vengeance and intense yet elegant scenes are portrayed. Anyone would be able to enjoy it as it is aesthetically pleasing as well.
June 3, 2021
This is the second book in this historical mystery series. I didn't want to read the second one without reading the first book, Clair's Last Secret, so I read both. Definitely better to read the first one before reading A Shadowed Fate.
Can I just start by saying how much I really enjoyed both books and I can not wait to read the next one. Ambrose brings the characters to life and I really loved Clair's character. She's stubborn, strong willed and courageous. Clair is the step-sister of Mary Shelley and the mistress of Lord Byron.
Ambrose's writing style is so beautiful and easy to follow. You can see that there's alot of research has gone into this and the historical description is simply beautiful. So much details and has been delivered with style and ease. I highly recommend this book.
Can I just start by saying how much I really enjoyed both books and I can not wait to read the next one. Ambrose brings the characters to life and I really loved Clair's character. She's stubborn, strong willed and courageous. Clair is the step-sister of Mary Shelley and the mistress of Lord Byron.
Ambrose's writing style is so beautiful and easy to follow. You can see that there's alot of research has gone into this and the historical description is simply beautiful. So much details and has been delivered with style and ease. I highly recommend this book.
June 10, 2021
I would recommend reading book 1 because this didn't read so well as a standalone. There is a lot of information that I feel like I'm missing because I didn't read book 1.
This follows Claire, a lover of the poet Lord Byron. She had a child from their affair, Allegra, that Lord Byron takes away from Claire and puts into a convent. (Supposedly to keep her from harm).
I guess Claire found in book 1 that her daughter died, but is told by her friend Trelawney that she might be alive. Claire's place is then burgled and a piece of art taken and this sets Claire is to find who took it and to find out sale what really happened with her daughter.
I wouldn't have read this if I knew I might be quite lost but it was ok. It was a really quick read because it comes under 200 pages so it's like a novella.
This follows Claire, a lover of the poet Lord Byron. She had a child from their affair, Allegra, that Lord Byron takes away from Claire and puts into a convent. (Supposedly to keep her from harm).
I guess Claire found in book 1 that her daughter died, but is told by her friend Trelawney that she might be alive. Claire's place is then burgled and a piece of art taken and this sets Claire is to find who took it and to find out sale what really happened with her daughter.
I wouldn't have read this if I knew I might be quite lost but it was ok. It was a really quick read because it comes under 200 pages so it's like a novella.
June 14, 2021
Marty Ambrose quickly captures the reader with the beautiful setting of Italy and keeps you entertained throughout trying to get information with the characters. Claire Clairmont is a member of the Byron/Shelley clan who just found out information about her daughter and starts on a quest for more. The relationships between the characters kept me connected and experiencing their feelings with them; quite a few moments had me laughing, other moments had me questioning everyone's motives. "A Shadowed Fate" is book 2, although I felt it read well on it's own and provided enough background knowledge pertinent to the story. I also do not know much about the Bryon/Shelley clan but this book gave me a great starting point and I will be seeking out more.
Thank you Marty Ambrose and Kate Rock Book Tours for a copy of this story! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you Marty Ambrose and Kate Rock Book Tours for a copy of this story! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 23, 2020
Not having read the first one, I'll admit to being a bit at sea when I started this- sorting out the characters etc.- but it sucked me in. Claire is on her way to her daughter Allegra (her daughter by Byron) at a convent but there are bad people following her. Do they want the letters she's carrying or something else? I was not familiar with Claire's story so this short novel sent me to googling for more information about several of the characters. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. It's a good read.
June 12, 2021
I loved Claire's Secret, the first book in the series, and this second one didn't disappoint. I immediately bought the third one. In A Shadowed Fate, Claire continues her quest to discover if her daughter is alive. The story twists and turns, but keeps the reader riveted throughout. Claire is a delightful character, an old woman but not infirm. She is impulsive and determined, which sometimes frustrates her niece. She is also loving and loyal. In this book, some of her loyalties to old friends are tested. Highly recommended.
February 17, 2020
I didn't read the previous instalment in this series and this one can't be read as a standalone.
In any case it's an entertaining read, the historical background is well researched and vivid, the characters interesting.
i think I will get the previous book and surely will appreciated this one.
Recommended if you read the previous instalment.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
In any case it's an entertaining read, the historical background is well researched and vivid, the characters interesting.
i think I will get the previous book and surely will appreciated this one.
Recommended if you read the previous instalment.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
June 17, 2020
I loved the previous book in the series, Claire's Last Secret, and eagerly looked forward to this one. It didn't disappoint. The author does a beautiful job of bringing these literary figures to life and making them human, relatable individuals, brilliant but fallible at the same time. They might not always act as we would want them too, but that only makes them more real. Filled with beautiful prose, gorgeous setting details, deep characterizations, mystery, danger, and redemption.
June 15, 2021
I received this free book for honest review.
4 stars ⭐ ⭐⭐ ⭐
First time reading from this author.
Looking forward to more of her books.
What amazing read.
This had me all over the place. My heart beating so fast! Every page, every chapter was a page turner.
What a good read!
The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled in.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for her next book.
4 stars ⭐ ⭐⭐ ⭐
First time reading from this author.
Looking forward to more of her books.
What amazing read.
This had me all over the place. My heart beating so fast! Every page, every chapter was a page turner.
What a good read!
The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled in.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for her next book.
December 5, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical mystery. If you like mysteries, you are going to love this page-turner. If you love the Romantic period, you are going to delight in this novel. If you are a fan of both, they you NEED to read this book. It has a compelling plot and engaging characters. You will not be disappointed.
April 15, 2020
Compelling and intriguing
The story of Claire’s relationship with Byron continues with lots of mysterious backstory. Her dedicated search for her daughter Allegra is captivating. I can’t wait for the sequel. I loved this book
The story of Claire’s relationship with Byron continues with lots of mysterious backstory. Her dedicated search for her daughter Allegra is captivating. I can’t wait for the sequel. I loved this book
May 27, 2020
Abrupt Ending
So it was quite a shock to turn the page and realize that there WERE no more pages!
The book has made me curious about Byron and I plan to do some more research.
So it was quite a shock to turn the page and realize that there WERE no more pages!
The book has made me curious about Byron and I plan to do some more research.
May 30, 2020
Continuations of Claire's Last Secret and an excellent page turner. Need the next book!
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