At Somerton: Diamonds & Deceit

At Somerton #2

by Leila Rasheed

For fans of Bridgerton, this sumptuous sequel continues the tale of two worlds, utterly different yet entangled, where ruthless ambition, forbidden attraction, and unspoken dreams are hidden behind dutiful smiles and glittering jewels.

“A thoroughly satisfying romp…Breathless readers will look forward to the next sudsy chapter in this planned series.” --Kirkus Reviews

A house divided...

London is a whirl of balls and teas, alliances and rivalries. Rose has never felt more out of place. With the Season in full swing, she can't help but still feel a servant, dressed up in diamonds and silk. Then she meets Alexander Ross, a young Scottish duke. She has heard the rumors about Ross's sordid past just like everyone else has. Yet he alone treats her as a friend. Rose knows better than to give her heart to an aristocrat with such a reputation, but it may be too late.

Ada is engaged to a handsome man who shares her political passions and has promised to support her education. So why does she feel hollow inside? Even if she hated Lord Fintan, she would have no choice but to go through with the marriage. Her father's heir seems determined to bring her family to ruin, and only a brilliant marriage can save Somerton Court and the Averleys' reputation. But Ada can't seem to stop longing for Ravi...

Meanwhile, Sebastian is out of his mind with worry for his former valet Oliver, who refuses to plead innocent to the murder charges against him--for a death caused by Sebastian himself. Sebastian will do whatever he can to help the boy he loves, but his indiscretion is dangerous fodder for a reporter with sharp eyes and dishonorable intentions.

The colorful cast of the At Somerton series returns in this enthralling sequel about class and fortune, trust and betrayal, love and revenge.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Romance, Historical, Historical Romance, Fiction, Young Adult Historical Fiction

448 pages, Paperback

First published December 20, 2013

About the author

Leila Rasheed has gained an MA in both Children's Literature and Creative Writing. She started work at Reading Is Fundamental, a children's literacy charity, before moving to Belgium. Leila now works as the children's bookseller for Waterstone's in Brussels.

Reviews

[Cora Tea Party Princess · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Words: Lavish, historical, romance, betrayal, scandal.

I am in love with this series.

Yet again, Leila Rasheed plunges us into the luxurious world of the people at Somerton and I loved it.

This series will be one I can easily reread again and again. I love the characters and how they all have their own distinct voices and personalities that really come through when you're reading from their perspective.

I was so disappointed in Laurence. He was so good around Ada, a different person really, and if he hadn't been such an idiot it could have actually worked.

Charlotte isn't totally to blame for her actions, from reading her perspective I really understand her motives. I actually pitied her a little bit! But her mother? Well, I definitely don't like Lady Westlake.

Rose really struggled in this book, even more than in the first book. But she's such a strong character and I loved how everything ended for her. I could read about Rose all day, and how she gallantly stumbles through the life she's thrust in to. She puts up with so much, coping with some of the nastiest people and most awkward situations.

This book is just as lavish and extravagant as the first, perhaps even more so. And now I have so long to wait for the next one!

[AH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initial Thoughts: This reminded me a little of Downton Abbey for Young Adults. A charming period piece, set in London and area near the start of WWI. Lots of beautiful dresses, balls, conniving girls, and all sorts of intrigue. A quick read and a fun diversion.

The Review:

Blame it on Downton Abbey. I never really wanted to read historical romances. I don’t know, the genre never really appealed to me. Then I started watching Downton Abbey and when the season ended, I felt like something was missing. I needed a fix of early twentieth century historical romance fast.

Diamonds & Deceit helped fill in the void until the new season of Downton Abbey began last week. I was able to get in my fix of social teas, garden parties, the beautiful dresses, and the wonderful atmosphere of that time period. I was surprised to see how much I liked this book. I literally did not put the book down. I really can’t explain why – it was just a pleasure to read.

Diamonds & Deceit is set during the season of 1913. Lady Templeton is eager to marry off her daughter Ada to help settle some financial debts amassed by her cousin William. Ada is betrothed to Laurence – Lord Fintan, but it is a loveless engagement. Ada’s sister Charlotte is jealous of the match and does whatever she can do to thwart it. Meanwhile, Rose who was previously a servant joins the family. She is the earl’s illegitimate daughter. This is Rose’s first season and she feels awkward and out of place. Enter the handsome and very eligible Alexander Ross, the Duke of Huntley. He is smitten by Rose and her unconventional outlook on life.

I loved how the author captured the atmosphere of the period. It never ceased to amaze me just how many people were needed to run one of these large estates. I loved how this book highlighted the class differences and the upstairs/downstairs mentality. It also amazes me just how much work was involved in destroying a reputation back then – letters had to be written, delivered, and then they had to actually wait for a reply.

While Diamonds & Deceit was the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone book as well. I did not feel lost, nor did I feel that I missed anything. I did enjoy the book immensely and I will go back to read the first book in the series – Cinders & Sapphires.

I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more books by this author.

Review posted on Badass Book Reviews.

Thank you to NetGalley and Disney Hyperion Books for a review copy of this book.

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dramatic affairs of the heart, pressures of society, deception, distrust, and a new generation of women who wish to use their brains and be involved in more than teas, sewing and finding a husband. Diamonds and Deceit by Leila Rasheed is dramatic in an “English Society” way, even though there are now phones, etc., society’s ladies still wish to be coddled, pampered and partied. Young women have “seasons” in order to find a suitable match in a husband. Suffering from vapors or “indelicate” conversation is enough to make them ill. When forward thinking young women are thrown into the mix, be assured, the society vipers will have their fangs bared. When one of these young ladies was once a simple housemaid until her wealthy father finally adopted her, she finds that no dress, no ball, and none of society’s fair maidens or their mothers will treat her as more than a curiosity. Must she follow the conventions of a world who will not even accept her? Has she changed from the person she one was? Should she follow her heart, as she advises others? Betrayal and deceit at every turn, it would seem her life is worse than before, unless she can find that one person who understands her and encourages her growth.

Filled with subplots, twists on top of twists, secret affairs and whispered gossip, Diamonds and Deceit is a journey back in time to formal balls, glittering gowns, dashing young men and marriages made for political or financial reasons. Leila Rasheed has created an interesting soap opera between the covers of this novel, filled with a wonderfully diverse cast of characters that you will either love, hate or feel badly for. Her style feels authentic, without heavily weighing down the story. Wonderful dialogue, beautifully set scenes, intrigue, all wrapped up in a stale that will appeal and is appropriate for the YA audience!


I received this ARC edition from Disney-Hyperion in exchange for my honest review.

Series: At Somerton, Book 2
Publication Date: January 7, 2014
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
ISBN: 9781423171188
Genre: Historical Romance/YA
Number of Pages: 320
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

[kit · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5🌟!!!! the first book was almost fun-bad this one was simply Bad. why was it over 400 pages. leila rasheed what the fuck on earth are you even trying to say with these books. what is the point. i want to start biting people in the street.

THE GOOD
➡️ the writing was better. it wasn't good, but there were fewer similes, and it wasn't as confusing.
➡️ georgiana's arc could have been interesting. i liked her learning how to run a household and grow more confident, especially because it gave her something to do besides BE IN LOVE WITH HER STEPBROTHER (which she still is)
➡️ the nods to edwardian russophilia. historically accurate. polish-russian dancer & choreographer vaslav nijinsky is mentioned several times, the averleys & friends go stravinsky's ballet the rite of spring which nijinsky choreographed. mentions of the ballet causing riots and uh....mixed results in paris when it first premiered in june 1913 are also accurate (it was in london by july). other references including namedropping rimsky-korsakov's symphonic suite scheherazade (1888) which is one of my personal favourite pieces of music, and charlotte's dress for the costume ball, which is based on stravinsky's ballet the firebird (1910)
➡️ begrudgingly i must give credit to the 'room of one's own' point rasheed is trying to make with rose and huntleigh approach to creating art and how their class backgrounds influence their approach to art. it's very shallow and i am projecting points but i'm trying to be nice
➡️ at one point charlotte and fiona go to sit in the gallery of the divorce court and watch like it's judge judy which i thought was funny

THE BAD
➡️ oh god.....just the writing.
➡️ georgiana is STILL in love with her stepbrother
➡️ once again, sebastian and oliver only show up maybe three or four times, and neither of them have any personality, spark, or backstory beyond being Chastely Gay. seriously. the most they've physically touched in two books is sebastian touching oliver's face while all the straight couples get to play tonsil hockey.
➡️ continuing from the last point, this arc and these characters are completely unnecessary and add literally nothing to the story they're in it so little. i don't doubt that rasheed only included them because she wanted to have gay characters but didn't actually want to put in the work of fleshing them out and examining the ways in which class, history, and sexuality intersect. the arc is wrapped up neat as a bow and nothing is ever examined below surface-level it's so frustrating oh my god
➡️ sebastian keeps admitting to people that he's gay with no consequences or prior thought as to the fact that there may be consequences. he tells rose when really he could have hidden it behind some sort of euphemism or made up an excuse, but no he' just like what's up i'm an unspeakable of the oscar wilde sort and rose thinks about this for like a second and is like Hmmm anyway! and it never comes up again! because nothing matters! nobody has an interior life! painfully heterosexual writing!
➡️ SO MANY POVS ONLY A THIRD OF THEM ARE NECESSARY
➡️ SO MANY CHAPTERS BECAUSE THEY KEEP FLIPPING BACK AND FORTH
➡️ SOME OF THESE CHAPTERS ARE ONLY A PAGE AND A HALF LONG
➡️ once again nobody has an interior life. they're all hollow shells of people. their extremely basic motivations are spelled out in neon letters. god forbid somebody have a thought that doesn't serve to forward the paper-thin plot in some way. i don't even know how to describe it it's so weird. it's like a mannequin wrote a book about humans but didn't have the intrinsic knowledge of what being human means and that humans can hope and dream and think and love and dream. if i think about it too long i want to rip my hair out
➡️ ada does not need to be in love with lord fintan. it would be perfectly fine to make her get engaged to him because it's Her Duty to save the family from ruin and she's using him as a means to an end to go to oxford. there's no need for her to have any actual affection
➡️ rose and huntleigh fall in possibly the worst insta-love i've ever had the misfortune of reading

THE UHHHH
➡️ rose and huntleigh drive to cornwall (WHERE IN CORNWALL?? WHAT PART OF THE COUNTY!!) and back in a day. according to google maps (and therefore modern roads and such), london to cornwall is about 5 hours. they stay in cornwall long enough for the sun to go down in the summer but rose is somehow at the costume ball before or around midnight?? bro that's not how transportation works
➡️ once again, where the ever-loving hell is somerton supposed to be located!!
➡️ emily maddox is referred to as 'emily fintan' even though that's....not her name? lord fintan is her brother's title? he'd be styled as laurence maddox, lord fintan? emily's title should be lady emily maddox? isn't leila rasheed half english ? doesn't she live IN ENGLAND? why isn't this correct?
➡️ emily also should have been a lesbian
➡️ there's mention of a "'98 dom pérignon" when dom pérignon's first vintage was in 1921 and they didn't start producing champagne commercially until 1936

i'm glad i still have to wait for my hold on the third book to come in because if i read all three of these back to back to back i would fucking dissolve thanks for coming to my tedtalk

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review by Beth

I read Leila Rashid’s first novel in the At Somerton series in the first half of the year and it didn’t draw me in the way I thought it would. Diamonds and Deceit however captivated me entirely, which doesn’t seem to make much sense but I suppose it’s just one of those things.
Rasheed’s wonderful writing style is maintained and you can see every inch of every outfit and the wide spanning ballrooms she describes. Once again Rasheed approaches issues you wouldn’t expect in the early 20th century – homosexuality and interracial relationships to name a few. That’s before we get to the standard infidelity and scandal.
I love how Rose’s character has blossomed from the first novel and how some of the lesser characters are able to come into their own as key players. Some of the ‘bad guys’ manage to redeem themselves whilst others definitely went down in my estimation.
My stand-out favourite character is Alexander – and I’m not usually one to be interested in the leading gentlemen in any story. Despite the misgivings he is much more complex and interesting than any other character we’re introduced to and even when he’s being outright rude and unlikeable I liked him. There was something interesting about this character.
Rasheed’s novels have many touches that remind me of Downton Abbey, although I’m not a fan of the show so I enjoyed the novel more than I’ve ever enjoyed it. Rasheed brings in some very contemporary issues which would no doubt have been relevant in the early 20th century but simply not talked about. This makes the novel more accessible to modern readers and adds further thrill to the plot.
I enjoy the relationship between the ‘masters’ and the servants and how there is a clear divide with some obvious overlaps – Rose being the most obvious.
A great story that gives you the chance to enjoy an early 20th century season with some of the country’s most eligible debutantes.

REVIEW BY FFION 8X1 (2013/14)

Diamonds and Deceit is the second book in the At Somerton series, in that respect the story picks up from the point the first book ended.

The narrative follows Ada, Rose and the Averley family and their estate through numerous society balls, countless luxurious manors and the scandals as they forge their way thorough the minefield of high society. Glimpsing the privilege and restrictions of the wealthy in this era. The writing quickly entangles you in each drama and I felt it gave a true reflection of the very different ways life affected both the upper and lower classes described within Diamonds and Deceit.

This is one of those books that I read through in a few days. It’s a nice light read, perfect for relaxing in the sunshine with. the writing style is elegant and consistent, the imagery reminiscent of Downton Abbey :) I loved how the author changed the perspective of the story, it left me guessing as to what would happen next. The pieces of the plot flow perfectly into each other.

Not having read the first book in the series left me slightly confused at the beginning, from this perspective I would recommend the series be read in order to fully appreciate the characters and their interactions.

It is the characters that really stand out within Diamonds and Deceit, the author has the talent to bring each characters personality to life within the imagination. They are not portrayed as perfect, but come complete with flaws and blemishes. For me the fact that the characters were imperfect aided the story making them more realistic and relatable.

There are a lot of loose ends left leaving the plot open ready for the third book, I have to say I actually enjoyed this as it increased my level of anticipation for the progression of the plot.

My favourite part of the book was how it was able to weave current feminist issues into the narrative, the ongoing fight for equality. It was really interesting to see the restrictions on women through all levels of society not just the poor.

In order to gain the full 5 stars there were areas that I felt could have been improved within the narrative. Firstly, while the multi-person narration does add depth to the story I did feel as if the transition between point of view could have been smoother. Also, aspects of the romance within the plot felt over-used and repetitive, but that is just my personal opinion.

Overall, I would say that Diamonds and Deceit is a fantastic read for fans of historical fiction; if you like Downton Abbey or Pride and Prejudice then this is definitely a must read.

[Anna Catharina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Es ist schon fast fünf Jahre her, dass ich den ersten Band gelesen habe, der mir damals sehr gut gefiel. Der Einstieg in Band 2 war leider schwieriger, besonders die zahlreichen Familienmitglieder und ihre Beziehungen machten mir echt zu schaffen. Die Handlung ist leider auch eher mager und klischeehaft, aber dank kurzer Kapitel las es sich doch flott weg. Alles in allem ganz okay, aber eben nur Durchschnittsware.

[Aparajitabasu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Original Link to the review at my blog Le' Grande Codex - here

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I'd say this again.I haven't yet had the chance to see Downton Abbey but as with the first, Diamonds & Deceit falls in the category of this period genre...... WHAT AN EXCELLENT SEQUEL IT WAS TOO.

There is intrigue. There is fashion. The season. The romance. Of new love and deceit. The conniving ladies hiding behind the social veil of the era. A bitter sweet end to a marriage and unraveling of secrets..... In other words every ingredients it needs to produce an eloquent tale to mark the sequel. Rose has been adopted by Lord Westlake. Ada and Fintan have set the date for marriage. Georgiana must learn to manage the house. Rose catches the eye of a certain Duke of Huntleigh. Ada still has feelings for Ravi, Michael and Priya are about to face the biggest hurdle of them all. Sebastian fights tooth & nail to free Oliver..... and in all turmoil Charlotte has got nothing better to do but scheme and destroy relationships.

Suffice to say there are a lot of characters in this book to actually take about elaborating on it but yes the three Westlake sisters, Ada, Georgiana and Ada held much more prominence and improved a whole lot more throughout the course of the book. Ada in a loveless marriage to save the Somerton estate from going bankrupt and her rather attention seeking intended, Lord Fintan. Truth be told, the author proclaims Ada and Ravi together and Fintan and Charlotte but I didn't feel the attraction between the pairs at all. You can see the lust in there..... but love.... no it didn't seem so. I was rather for Ada and Fintan...... They bring out the best of it in each other...... and actually seemed to work together better too.

Now Rose. Her struggle to come to terms of her adoption and status as a lady and rise i that position gave a new meaning to the tale. She knows she must mingle but she also knows what the others say of her behind her back... Her encounters with the Duke of Hunteligh proved to be a blessing in disguise. The fit together, and in the sense brought a sort of innocence to the story as well. And I enjoyed reading their escapades.

A job well donw by Rasheed. There are not many authors out there who can maintain so many characters in the vicinity of a single book and actually manage to create a coherent tale..... I am definitely excited for a third book.

"Of love and sorrow, a sense of entitlement and deceit comes an exquisite sequel you don't want to miss out on"

[Kris (My Novelesque Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 STARS

(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review).

The Westlakes and Templetons are back to finish out the season. Lady Ada has said goodbye to Ravi and has consented to marry Fintan...some day. Rose, the former maid is now Lady Rose. Westlake has finally accepted and adopted Rose as his daughter. Going from a maid to a Lady is not easy for Rose especially when society talks behind her back. Rose has attracted the attention of a Duke - who also has a history with Charlotte. Charlotte afraid she is losing another prospect to the Westlakes kicks up her scheming. Sebastian continues to clear Oliver who is holding back a secret. Michael and Priya are keeping their love quiet but there is a threat coming their way. Georgina is left alone to care for the estate and those living there. As she tries to hold it all down she watches the boy she loves love another.

As the season comes to an end the Westlakes and Templetons have to make decisions as their lives changes.

The second novel takes up from where the first book ended and we are again on an absorbing ride. We see how the characters either change or don't and the consequences from their decisions. I like the drama, romance and secrets in this novel. it is a soapy book and I like it!

[kari · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt that this installment was a bit better than the first one. Maybe because I didn't struggle quite so much with the large cast of characters. It did take a little to remember who's who and who belongs where, but then it was smooth sailing.
There is a bit more character development in this one, which I felt added not just to the characters but to the overall story. I can understand Charlotte a bit better from knowing more about her, even maybe feel some sympathy for her. She has gone from almost a caricature to a fully formed character.
The focus of the story is still Ada, the Earl's daughter and his newly adopted(although natural) daughter, Rose.
There are two interlaced storylines about the Season where Ada is preparing to marry and Rose is trying to make her way into Society. Neither path is easy and I thought both storylines were believable and each was strong.
There are other storylines that are more in the background, but hopefully we will get more of them in future books.
The ending wraps up some of the story, but definitely not all.
I'd read the next one.

[Jennifer Whitehead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Disney-Hyperion books for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Oh, fans of Downton Abbey READ THIS BOOK! What a delightful look into many personas, both upstairs and downstairs, and across the cultural divide of status! Rasheed delicately weaves a very readable story together with many characters that we love to hate, and a few we love to love. Despite not reading the first installment of Somerton, I found this book to be interesting, believable, and sad. It touched upon multiple hard-to-discuss topics (homosexuality, loss of identity, unrequited love, immigration, etc). Very few books, especially YA books, effectively illustrate the cultural hypocrisy of the wealthy and the not-so-wealthy in Great Britain in the post-Victorian era, but Rasheed does this very well.

[Elise · Rating 5 out of 5]

My motto is, "if I finish it in a day, I should write a review." So here it goes.
This book picks up where the first on left off, with Rose, now Lady Rose, Ada, Charlotte and all your favorite characters.
Ada is engaged to Lord Fintin, but she still has feelings towards Ravi. Meanwhile, a new man, a duke shows up and is quite enamored by one of the ladies.
Oliver, in jail for a crime he didn't commit will do all he can to keep Sebastian's name out of the papers and hide his own secret as well.
This book is just so good. I really recommend it. You'll love some of them and you'll hate some of them.

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know why, maybe because it was a bit longer, but Diamonds and Deceit is so much better than the first one. The characters are more complex and more intertwined. The story fitted more all together than the first. I still wish we would know more about Oliver and Sebastian; only a few chapters were devoted to them even if their plot is very interesting. The end is quite good and make up expect for the 3rd book. If you weren't sure about how you felt about Cinders & Sapphires, give a chance to Diamonds and Deceit before giving up. It was totally worth it for me.

Overall, a good historical-YA very alike Downton Abbey.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great follow up to Cinders and Sapphires!

I really enjoyed the book. Even though there were no real surprises, it was still charming, interesting, descriptive, and engaging.

Did it remind me of Downton Abbey? Yes, it did, but I was okay with that:)

There are many characters, so it took me awhile to remember who everyone was. But I have to say that although Ada is one of my favorite characters in this series, Rose and Alexander's storyline is what really kept me going.

Overall, a very enjoyable book. Looking forward to reading the next one!

[Juliane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg, it is again the perfect match of Downton Abbey and Gossip Girl! I couldn't remember much from the first book but a lot came back as I read this one; and also if you don't know the first book at all you can read this easily. I love Ada, I love Rose. Both, their stories are so unique! The end of the book makes you want the third book ASAP! How shall I wait until 2015?! + the German covers are pure cover-love!

[Vicky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this book is the second book of the series, it can be read as a standalone.

I enjoyed Rose and Alexander’s portion a lot. Tho the beginning was a bit confusing to read at first.

[Kirsty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finished last night.

I did like it but wasn't as hooked as I was when reading the first book in the series as If let at times too much was going on. Very much has a Downton feel to it.

Unsure as to there is more in the series. Would be keen to continue if so.

[Mara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cover Blurb: Yes or No? Sure, I like it. It's very indicative of the story's era and what it might be like (i.e. like Downton Abbey).

Characters: Ada Averley continues to be a very likable protagonist; smart and perceptive and kind. I adored her even more for her sisterly affection towards Rose, who suffered at the hands of gossips and uncertainty. If possible, I liked Ada even more in this book. Rose, too, continues to be a very caring girl, very artistic, if not wholly sensible when it comes to Alexander Ross (more on that later). Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, my affection for both Sebastian and Oliver increased as well. I still don't really care for the whole "they're gay" plot, but it doesn't feel like the Author is trying to make a statement, so it didn't bother me too much. The bottom line is Oliver is huggable and adorable and I felt so bad for him. And Sebastian showed his better side in this one. On the other end of the spectrum, I liked Emily Maddox a little less in Diamonds & Deceit, and my affection for Lord Fintan totally vanished. We learned a bit more about some of his little secrets, and it made me dislike him quite a bit. Ravi isn't in Diamonds & Deceit at all, so my opinion of him had no chance to waver or increase. ;-) Georgiana and Michael play a bigger role in Diamonds & Deceit, and it made me like them more. Georgiana fights to be strong and take on her role as chatelaine of Somerton, and Michael is so good to Priya, the Indian nursemaid, that I just adored him. Then there's Alexander Ross. . . .the rake. Perhaps unsurprisingly, his bad reputation isn't as bad as society has made it out to be, and I suspected that from the beginning, so I was prepared to like him. I do love characters who society has painted as rakes, but they really aren't. Alexander mostly falls into that category (he did a few things in his past that weren't totally commendable, but nothing as bad as society has said). I appreciated his disdain for society, their expectations, and his desire to follow his own path.

The Romance: I didn't find it as shallow as inCinders & Sapphires, though it's by no means totally heartfelt. Rose hasn't known Alexander long at all before she's head-over-heels for him, despite his reputation. As far as Rose knows, he's as bad as society has declared him; she doesn't find out the truth until much later. Ada continues to struggle with herself over marrying Lord Finton when her heart really belongs to Ravi. Michael and Priya try to determine how to set a life up for themselves without bringing disgrace to the Averley name. And Sebastian and Oliver fight to hide their affections for one another, as a sneaky reporter keeps hanging around, trying to ruin Sebastian's reputation. As if this weren't enough, throw in an old flame between Lord Finton and Charlotte Templeton, and Charlotte's trying to get back at Lord Finton for throwing her over - by making eyes at Alexander Ross. There's also the little matter of Georgiana being in love with Michael. Yes, it's all quite complicated and dramatic, but it's also easy to follow. And it does take up quite a bit of the story - this is Downton Abbey for teens, after all.

Plot: Rose Cliffe has been officially acknowledged by Lord Westlake, her father, and now it is the Season and she must be introduced into society. But society isn't so welcoming of a former housemaid, and Rose must fight to claim her place in it as the daughter of an Averley. When Alexander Ross, a highly eligible Scottish duke - with a reputation - starts paying Rose attention, it may just be the notice she needs. But Rose is determined to guard her heart against the undeniable rake, and Charlotte Templeton is determined to not let Rose have him. There's just one problem: Rose is falling for Alexander. Meanwhile, Ada Averley is preparing for her wedding to Lord Finton. This marriage will secure her family's reputation, save Somerton from the reckless spending of Sir William, and will ensure her going to university. But her heart still belongs to Ravi, the Indian Oxford student she fell for long ago. Back at Somerton, Sebastian is fighting to get his valet Oliver released from prison, charged with a murder that Sebastian himself committed. But Oliver won't plead innocent, and with a sneaky reporter poking around, looking to expose Sebastian's greatest secret, he must tread carefully. Never has a Season in London been so filled with drama. And the similarities between Downton Abbey and this series continues! I'm not accusing the Author plagiarism, by the way. Conniving ladies' maids, society drama, and the complications of being a housemaid and wanting to better one's self are all quite realistic themes for the time period, so any Edwardian era novel is going to be similar to one another. But when one's mind has made the connection, it's hard to ignore the similarities. But I still loved this book. There isn't a single character who doesn't have a secret, or who is conniving, or who just has something bad happen to them. Nothing is straight forward; something always complicates it. There's not a dull moment with the Averleys. Between Charlotte's conniving ladies' maid Stella, Charlotte Templeton herself and her horrid mother, Sebastian and Oliver's explosive secret, and Sir William's lecherous behavior towards Priya, there's not a break from it. If there were flatout no likable characters, I don't think even the era would make me like this series as much as I do. But there are characters that I care about.

Believability: No complaints.

Writing Style: Third person, past tense. It's a very pleasant style, and the narration switches between who it follows, but it isn't confusing. The dialogue is very fitting for the era, too.

Content: Sebastian and Oliver are gay. It's also implied that Sir William raped Priya

Conclusion: Diamonds & Deceit ends with the breakout of WWI. Sounds familiar. But it really would be hard to have a series set in this era and not have it end with WWI starting. There were a few twists in the end I wasn't expecting, and I was also surprised at how wrapped up events are. I actually wondered if this were a duology. It's not; it's a trilogy. My main complaint is that Oliver's trial was too quickly wrapped up. But other than that, it ended just as satisfyingly as it began. Lots of drama in the beginning, lots of drama in the middle, and more drama at the end.

Recommended Audience: Girl-read, seventeen-and-up, fans of Downton Abbey and historical fiction.

[Zoye Fabinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Positive Comments
At first, I was unsure on how much I would like this book... but then I kept reading. I have read this book 4 or 5 times now and each time my heart races waiting to see what is going to happen. I didn't even read the first one but I still caught up with the storyline quickly. The characters are so relatable, even the "mean" ones. I kept putting myself in the story. I loved when Alexander took her to the artsy castle and said he would want his wife to live there with him. I feel like this book foreshadowed their marriage the whole time. Even when she turned him down I knew in my heart that they would get back together. This book is a love story with many twists and turns. Like when Ada decided not to marry who everyone wanted her to marry and married the guy she wanted. I love that even Cholatte ended up with the guy she loved. (even if she didn't know it).

Positive Criticism
Though I do want to say when the nursemaid died with the baby I didn't even flinch. When I read something sad I want to feel the emotions of the characters effected by it. I didn't feel anything when she died. Maybe that's because she wasn't in the story that much so I didn't have as close of a bond with her as I would have if Charlotte or Ada died. If that's the case I feel like if she was going to die we should have seen more of her so the readers would feel the emotion of her dying with the baby.

[Justin Neville · Rating 3 out of 5]

I raced through this Downton-esque trilogy, one book a day. And will post the same review to cover all three of them.

I needed some light relief after a few heavy literary endeavours that tried way too hard and didn't quite deliver all that they promised. And light relief is what I got - very light.

Yes, the plot developments were completely predictable and - indeed - highly implausible in many respects and characters were far from complex.

But the author kept me turning the pages. She had me hooked. If the series had been longer, I'd have carried straight on. I saw all the flaws but soon adjusted my expectations and lapped it up.

The third book was the most successful of the series, as the First World War gets underway with life-changing impacts on the characters. One cared a little less beforehand when they were just flitting about London and the countryside with the usual upstairs/downstairs dramas.

And one big plus point in the author's favour is that she has delivered a series in this genre way more successfully than the ostensibly much better writer Fay Weldon a few years ago. If you are fortunate enough not to have tried to pick up Ms Weldon's Love and Inheritance trilogy, then keep it that way. Everyone involved in that project should hang their heads in shame - it wasn't even worthy of being called trash.

[Carolina Colleene · Rating 3 out of 5]

Language: PG (12 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG
Rose is struggling to navigate life as a lady and overcome her below stairs upbringing, especially on display as she is during her first season. Ada is determined to forget Ravi and uphold her family’s reputation, even as the rest of her siblings are starting to act as if reputation doesn’t matter. But everyone has ulterior motives in high society where a smile to your face is no indication for what goes on behind your back.
Rasheed tells several stories from the points of view of nearly every character – or so it felt in the beginning. Once all the characters were sorted in my mind, the stories moved quickly. In the beginning, every character seems to be out for themselves in their cutthroat world, but they gradually grow to learn that secrets, resentment, and strict social lines are not the most important parts of life. With multiple characters’ stories being told, prepare for both joy and tragedy.
Rose, Ada, Charlotte, Laurence, Alexander, and their families are English. Ravi and Priya are Indian. Celine is French. The mature content rating is for alcohol use, kissing described as “passionate,” and implied sexual assault. The violence rating is for mention of murder (that occurred in the prequel).
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/

[Agi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked reading this book, I honestly thought it was so captivating. So many missed opportunities and such a deep complex plot. I imagined it all to be luxurious at Sommerton and it was such a nice vibe!
Definitely recommend, the characters are likeable and the plot is easy to follow too.

My only concern is that Priya died! I livedd for her character, she and Micheal deserve the world and I wish the narrative was that she could have been saved and the baby died or something where the two could pursue their love and get their happy ever after. Sir William was an awful character and I think that it highlights some of the things that go on during the 1900s and also now. SA is overlooked too often and it cost Priya her life.
Also, Rose should not have accepted the Duke so quick, as he did disrespect her and didn’t even propose properly. I understand that he is unconventional however its still not okay. Though saying that I must admit I adore their relationship so much.
Lawrence was such a disappointment. Charlotte too, I genuinely thought she was improving herself until she had an affair. Ada could have had a decent marriage, though Lawrence was definitely not her match. So I think that its good they cut it off.

Anyways, I think that this book was really good and enjoyable!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodness! Talk about if you love Downton Abbey and Bridgerton, these are SO novels that you should read. I have been reading this series in between my others and it is so enjoyable. I love the twists and turns and feel as though I am in the world of Downton Abbey again. I am absolutely picking up the next book right away.

[Sabrina Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good! Definitely cranked up the drama. I nearly cried. I love these characters and the multiple relationships followed. It’s not to complicated as to be confusing. It’s great! I can’t wait to see how Ada and Rose fare in the final book.

[Rachel D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying this series. However, the jump at the end that spanned a whole year was a bit much for me. I would have liked to have read more details about Rose and Huntleigh’s wedding.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[NoRa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I miss scenes with Ada and Ravi. I’m glad for Rose though. As for Sebastian, I didn’t care for his storyline anymore.

[Heather Sobek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Got really good at the end, but that didn’t make up for the beginning and middle being kind of a slog.

[Margaret Conmey · Rating 3 out of 5]

A rather silly plot and characters feel too modern but nevertheless a fun read

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely love

[Kristen Sonnenberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful mix of Downton Abbey and Bridgerton with a cupful of scandal thrown in. What fun!