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Carlisle #1
Truth and Measure
What happens when the world’s fiercest fashion editor learns she’s pregnant—and her distracting assistant is the only one she can turn to? This wildly popular age-gap lesbian romance mixes humor and chaos with self-discovery. Jules Moretti is newly single, an aspiring writer, and the hyper-competent assistant to the most powerful woman in fashion. It’s a tough job, but her ice queen boss won’t settle for less than perfection. Vivian Carlisle helms the internationally revered fashion publication Du Jour. She might be smack in the middle of a messy divorce, but you have to make sacrifices to be the best. That’s what she tells herself, anyway. When the unthinkable happens, Vivian’s regimented world is turned upside-down. Her life is about power, success, and dominance—not a baby! This single, shocking moment throws boss and assistant together into an intimacy neither could have imagined. With their lives in chaos, every day brings a new challenge bigger than the last. But everything will work out…just so long as they don’t do anything totally ridiculous. Like fall in love. Truth and Measure is the first part of a two-book series. This slow-burn office romance is a steamy story of fashion, passion, and the power of the unexpected.
394 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2022
203 people are currently reading
3359 people want to read
About the author
Roslyn Sinclair
9 books1,295 followersRoslyn Sinclair knew she was destined to be a writer when her second-grade teacher took one look at her “What I did on my summer vacation” essay and said, “You wrote a novel!” It was all over after that.
She is married to fellow sapphic romance writer Carrie Byrd. They live in the greater Philadelphia area, weathering cold winters, hot summers, pollinated springs, and crisp autumns that make it all worthwhile.
You can keep up with Roslyn by subscribing to her newsletter. Subscribers get first access to book news, exclusive giveaways and promos, and a free steamy sapphic novella.
You can find Roslyn on all of her online platforms here.
She is married to fellow sapphic romance writer Carrie Byrd. They live in the greater Philadelphia area, weathering cold winters, hot summers, pollinated springs, and crisp autumns that make it all worthwhile.
You can keep up with Roslyn by subscribing to her newsletter. Subscribers get first access to book news, exclusive giveaways and promos, and a free steamy sapphic novella.
You can find Roslyn on all of her online platforms here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 523 reviews
October 25, 2022
Ice queen boss.
I had very high expectations for this. I mean, the name Roslyn Sinclair itself means something in the lesfic world after The Lily and the Crown. So I was excited for this book, especially since it also features an ice queen.
Unfortunately, I thought most of the story fell flat. There's multiple attempts at humour, meant to be banter, but banter works well only if there's chemistry, which in my opinion, was lacking for most of the book. Vivian is modelled after Miranda from The Devil Wears Prada and Julia is Vivian's very capable assistant. There is some sort of workplace chemistry between them if there's even such a thing with horrible bosses, but that's as far as it goes. The relationship between them felt entirely platonic and work-related and I probably won't even label them as friends, but out of nowhere, the dynamics between them shifts to romantic and sexual and that's a little weird for me. On top of that, I expected Vivian's unborn child (Vivian is pregnant) to play a major role in bringing the couple together but this pregnancy ended being pretty inconsequential to the story, in my opinion.
I do think the book got better for me at the later stage when things became less awkward, so I'm hoping the next book in the Calisle series, which is a continuation of Vivian and Julia's story, will be better for me.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
I had very high expectations for this. I mean, the name Roslyn Sinclair itself means something in the lesfic world after The Lily and the Crown. So I was excited for this book, especially since it also features an ice queen.
Unfortunately, I thought most of the story fell flat. There's multiple attempts at humour, meant to be banter, but banter works well only if there's chemistry, which in my opinion, was lacking for most of the book. Vivian is modelled after Miranda from The Devil Wears Prada and Julia is Vivian's very capable assistant. There is some sort of workplace chemistry between them if there's even such a thing with horrible bosses, but that's as far as it goes. The relationship between them felt entirely platonic and work-related and I probably won't even label them as friends, but out of nowhere, the dynamics between them shifts to romantic and sexual and that's a little weird for me. On top of that, I expected Vivian's unborn child (Vivian is pregnant) to play a major role in bringing the couple together but this pregnancy ended being pretty inconsequential to the story, in my opinion.
I do think the book got better for me at the later stage when things became less awkward, so I'm hoping the next book in the Calisle series, which is a continuation of Vivian and Julia's story, will be better for me.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2023
** Update for the audiobook version **
Abby Craden is the perfect choice for narrating this audiobook, her performance of the frosty ice queen Vivian Carlisle and the counterpoint with the young and vivacious Jules Moretti is fantastic. Ms. Craden brings the story to life and makes the listening experience even better. 5 stars.
Length: 12 hrs and 26 mins
Available in Scribd
Unlike many other reviewers in our genre, I’m not a follower of fan fiction. But for as long as I’ve been reviewing lesfic books I was told that I shouldn’t miss Telanu’s Truth and Measure. I admit that I was put off by 271,584 reasons, the number of words of just the first installment out of five in the Truth and Measure verse. Then I heard in approximately 2017 that Ylva was planning to publish it so I’ve decided to wait… Five years later, the wait is over!
I didn’t read the book blurb so for me, the story was a complete surprise. So if you haven’t and don’t want to know, just skip this paragraph. Vivian Carlisle, the chief editor of the revered fashion publication Du Jour, is in the middle of a messy divorce when she discovers that she’s pregnant. Jules Moretti is her highly competent assistant and an aspiring writer. As Vivian’s world as she knew it starts to collapse, both women are thrown together into an intimacy they didn’t imagine. But as life brings new challenges, their bond grows stronger and a mutual attraction starts to simmer. Will they act on their feelings or even fall in love?
Roslyn Sinclair is an established author of two very popular books, her debut novel The Lily and The Crown and The X Ingredient. Along with Truth and Measure, all these works are based on The Devil Wears Prada trope (age-gap, workplace romance with an ice queen, opposites attract, and slow burn) though Truth and Measure is the closest to the canon as it’s set, like in the movie, in the world of fashion journalism. However, this is where the similarities end as this story starts with a very original concept.
Truth and Measure is book one of two of the Carlisle Series, which should be read in chronological order. If you commit to reading this book, you need to know that you’ll have to read book two, Above all Things, for the story to feel complete. Truth and Measure ends up in a cliffhanger but luckily, both books are being published only a few weeks apart from each other so no need to panic.
I mentioned that the original fan fiction was 271K words, thanks to Ms. Sinclair's hard editing work along with Ylva author Lee Winter, this first book’s word count was reduced to 120,000 words while book two is “only” 97,000 words. It sounds like a lot but I assure you that time flies while reading it. This is a slow-burn romance, the author has no rush in developing the story and the chemistry between the mains builds up oh-so painstakingly slow. But let me tell you two things, one, it makes absolute sense in the context of the story, and two, it eventually pays off.
If you’ve read Ms. Sinclair’s books, you know that the sex scenes are scorching hot (I highly recommend you to listen to the audiobooks of both The X Ingredient, narrated by Anastasia Watley and The Lily and The Crown, narrated by Angela Dawe). However, possibly because the buildup of the relationship is slow, don’t expect the same kind of explicit scenes and varied sex as in the aforementioned books, it’s more an “edging” type of hotness. These two women have chemistry in spades and there’s a lot of potential for that chemistry to explode in book two and knowing this author, I’m sure she’ll deliver.
I’ve been wondering for a while where the title comes from. It seems it’s from a French Medieval romance quote:
“For above all things love means sweetness, and truth, and measure; yea, loyalty to the loved one, and to your word.
—Anonymous, The Lay of Graelent, 13th century CE”
I think this series is going to be one of the big hits in the sapphic romance world this year and even without having read part two, I expect it to be on most reviewers’ top lists for 2022. I can’t wait to get my hands on part two and I’m hoping the audiobooks won’t take too long to be released. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Abby Craden is the perfect choice for narrating this audiobook, her performance of the frosty ice queen Vivian Carlisle and the counterpoint with the young and vivacious Jules Moretti is fantastic. Ms. Craden brings the story to life and makes the listening experience even better. 5 stars.
Length: 12 hrs and 26 mins
Available in Scribd
Unlike many other reviewers in our genre, I’m not a follower of fan fiction. But for as long as I’ve been reviewing lesfic books I was told that I shouldn’t miss Telanu’s Truth and Measure. I admit that I was put off by 271,584 reasons, the number of words of just the first installment out of five in the Truth and Measure verse. Then I heard in approximately 2017 that Ylva was planning to publish it so I’ve decided to wait… Five years later, the wait is over!
I didn’t read the book blurb so for me, the story was a complete surprise. So if you haven’t and don’t want to know, just skip this paragraph. Vivian Carlisle, the chief editor of the revered fashion publication Du Jour, is in the middle of a messy divorce when she discovers that she’s pregnant. Jules Moretti is her highly competent assistant and an aspiring writer. As Vivian’s world as she knew it starts to collapse, both women are thrown together into an intimacy they didn’t imagine. But as life brings new challenges, their bond grows stronger and a mutual attraction starts to simmer. Will they act on their feelings or even fall in love?
Roslyn Sinclair is an established author of two very popular books, her debut novel The Lily and The Crown and The X Ingredient. Along with Truth and Measure, all these works are based on The Devil Wears Prada trope (age-gap, workplace romance with an ice queen, opposites attract, and slow burn) though Truth and Measure is the closest to the canon as it’s set, like in the movie, in the world of fashion journalism. However, this is where the similarities end as this story starts with a very original concept.
Truth and Measure is book one of two of the Carlisle Series, which should be read in chronological order. If you commit to reading this book, you need to know that you’ll have to read book two, Above all Things, for the story to feel complete. Truth and Measure ends up in a cliffhanger but luckily, both books are being published only a few weeks apart from each other so no need to panic.
I mentioned that the original fan fiction was 271K words, thanks to Ms. Sinclair's hard editing work along with Ylva author Lee Winter, this first book’s word count was reduced to 120,000 words while book two is “only” 97,000 words. It sounds like a lot but I assure you that time flies while reading it. This is a slow-burn romance, the author has no rush in developing the story and the chemistry between the mains builds up oh-so painstakingly slow. But let me tell you two things, one, it makes absolute sense in the context of the story, and two, it eventually pays off.
If you’ve read Ms. Sinclair’s books, you know that the sex scenes are scorching hot (I highly recommend you to listen to the audiobooks of both The X Ingredient, narrated by Anastasia Watley and The Lily and The Crown, narrated by Angela Dawe). However, possibly because the buildup of the relationship is slow, don’t expect the same kind of explicit scenes and varied sex as in the aforementioned books, it’s more an “edging” type of hotness. These two women have chemistry in spades and there’s a lot of potential for that chemistry to explode in book two and knowing this author, I’m sure she’ll deliver.
I’ve been wondering for a while where the title comes from. It seems it’s from a French Medieval romance quote:
“For above all things love means sweetness, and truth, and measure; yea, loyalty to the loved one, and to your word.
—Anonymous, The Lay of Graelent, 13th century CE”
I think this series is going to be one of the big hits in the sapphic romance world this year and even without having read part two, I expect it to be on most reviewers’ top lists for 2022. I can’t wait to get my hands on part two and I’m hoping the audiobooks won’t take too long to be released. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
April 10, 2022
Vivian Carlisle is the reigning queen of the fashion world as she runs a much lauded international publishing magazine. Her fast paced, nonstop job is all consuming requiring a 24/7 assistant. Julia Moretti fills this position with the utmost competence. Jules loves the fashion industry and while she yearns to be a writer one day she understands the valuable education she is receiving with Carlisle. The Ice Queen has it all, until her personal life begins to unravel. Jules, by virtue of her accessibility to Vivian, decides to be there for her thus blurring the lines between boss and employee.
Truth and Measure is an age-gap Ice Queen romance which follows the assumed path for this genre. The plot has a few unexpected bends to it which adds a nice twist to the story. There are numerous attempts at humour throughout the novel however they are overreaching and fall flat too many times not to detract from the storytelling. Combine this with some pacing issues left me working hard to finish this novel instead of enjoying the read.
I will be in the minority however I did not enjoy this novel as much as Sinclair’s other ones.
I received an advanced review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Truth and Measure is an age-gap Ice Queen romance which follows the assumed path for this genre. The plot has a few unexpected bends to it which adds a nice twist to the story. There are numerous attempts at humour throughout the novel however they are overreaching and fall flat too many times not to detract from the storytelling. Combine this with some pacing issues left me working hard to finish this novel instead of enjoying the read.
I will be in the minority however I did not enjoy this novel as much as Sinclair’s other ones.
I received an advanced review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 25, 2023
➥ 3.5 Stars *:･ﾟ✧
I rounded it to four because I'm weak like that. I've read Sinclair's novella Heavy Sugar but other than that, I'm new to her work. She has so much potential, it's crazy. I just need to find out which of her books is the one where her knack shines through. This was originally a dwp fic, and I've found I've read my fair share of dwp fics turned published books now, actually.
It began with our fmc Jules (h) being a frustrating pushover. Always at Vivian's (h) beck and call. Vivian is very unkind and unempathetic to her employees, so I still found it hard to warm up to her when she discarded people like nothing. But warm up I did 🤭😌.
Like I mentioned, Jules was frustratingly spineless, but her journey in growing balls was a delicious one. Seeing her stand up to Vivian and even seduce her was immensely satisfying. Vivian not being in control just had me 😋.
So ultimately, I grew fond of Jules, which I didn't think was possible in the beginning. Vivian and Jules go well together, and they have some undeniable chemistry. And I can't lie, seeing ice queen melt (+steam) hits every time. Vivian losing it because Jules kissed her hand sweetly is so gay 🤣💞. Vivian was not without her own moments though 😼
So here I am saying that the steam that there was, was good, that the romance was tender and moving (just somehow exactly what I look for), and that I grew fond of the characters. So why not a higher rating? Because the first half sucked ass . No development, just Vivian being hot and cold. I understand Vivian feeling lonely, but fucking is a decision I'm convinced was made while she was suffering from brain-cell deficiency.
The second half definitely picked up and started getting good, but I don't want a book to end when it's just starting to get good! Obviously, I'll be picking up the next book (which I think/hope I'll enjoy more) but it would have been nice for it to have been as riveting from the beginning as it starts to get in the end.
Also, I really didn't think this was that steamy. There were like two explicit scenes (and those were really well-done) but after they give in the first time, we're just kind of told they've been going at it since. I think actually writing those moments would have allowed us to see more growth in the characters' relationship and see them interact more with each other. When the conflict appeared, it felt like there'd been a gap that I'd missed. Vivian was quite hesitant at first, new to having sex with women. I think there's a lot of development that we're just told happened, which kind of sucks. Especially considering that this author is so good at writing sex scenes??
Like babe, just keep doing what you're doing, come on 😭. (They came in their pants a lot though ⁉ good for them ig). Her dialogue is great and the scenes feel true to the characters. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Vivian and Jules and reading more of this author's work in general. A few little birdies have told me that The X Ingredient is more the book I'm looking for (hey, I like romance and emotional development too 🙄😭 I don't only have a one track mind 😒😟😤):
So gay 😹 and cute. I for real gasped like this was a period drama when this happened. And Jules teasing Vivian about her original proposal, bye.
Anyway, my exams are over, so it's time to devour every sapphic book in existence, just warning you 😚! (Hopefully some with covers that cause less eye damage but well).
"Be gentle," Vivian pleaded, cupping Jule's face in her hands and kissing her, not gently at all.
━━━━━━━━━━━ ♡ ━━━━━━━━━━━
I rounded it to four because I'm weak like that. I've read Sinclair's novella Heavy Sugar but other than that, I'm new to her work. She has so much potential, it's crazy. I just need to find out which of her books is the one where her knack shines through. This was originally a dwp fic, and I've found I've read my fair share of dwp fics turned published books now, actually.
It began with our fmc Jules (h) being a frustrating pushover. Always at Vivian's (h) beck and call. Vivian is very unkind and unempathetic to her employees, so I still found it hard to warm up to her when she discarded people like nothing. But warm up I did 🤭😌.
Like I mentioned, Jules was frustratingly spineless, but her journey in growing balls was a delicious one. Seeing her stand up to Vivian and even seduce her was immensely satisfying. Vivian not being in control just had me 😋.
Vivian leaned her head back against the kitchen wall. "It's not fair... You're the one who's always after me to eat - ah."
Jules was already addicted to watching her lose her cool, forget how to talk. "You're the one who said 'deal with it'" Then she leaned in and smiled against Vivian's mouth so she could feel it-Vivian trembled - and whispered. "So deal."
So ultimately, I grew fond of Jules, which I didn't think was possible in the beginning. Vivian and Jules go well together, and they have some undeniable chemistry. And I can't lie, seeing ice queen melt (+steam) hits every time. Vivian losing it because Jules kissed her hand sweetly is so gay 🤣💞. Vivian was not without her own moments though 😼
Jules blushed as Vivian looked her naked body over with gleaming eyes, then blushed harder as Vivian caressed her hip and said with one warm hand. "Well now," she said softly, "It's your turn, isn't it?"
So here I am saying that the steam that there was, was good, that the romance was tender and moving (just somehow exactly what I look for), and that I grew fond of the characters. So why not a higher rating? Because the first half sucked ass . No development, just Vivian being hot and cold. I understand Vivian feeling lonely, but fucking is a decision I'm convinced was made while she was suffering from brain-cell deficiency.
The second half definitely picked up and started getting good, but I don't want a book to end when it's just starting to get good! Obviously, I'll be picking up the next book (which I think/hope I'll enjoy more) but it would have been nice for it to have been as riveting from the beginning as it starts to get in the end.
Also, I really didn't think this was that steamy. There were like two explicit scenes (and those were really well-done) but after they give in the first time, we're just kind of told they've been going at it since. I think actually writing those moments would have allowed us to see more growth in the characters' relationship and see them interact more with each other. When the conflict appeared, it felt like there'd been a gap that I'd missed. Vivian was quite hesitant at first, new to having sex with women. I think there's a lot of development that we're just told happened, which kind of sucks. Especially considering that this author is so good at writing sex scenes??
After they parted, Vivian managed to say disbelievingly, "I couldn't wait. I had to..."
"God, Vivian." Jules pressed her nose into Vivin's throat. She slid her fingers out carefully and patted the inside of Vivian's sticky thigh. "You're incredible."
Vivian was panting too hard to reply. But she kissed Jule's temple, then her cheek, and slid her arms around her waist.
Like babe, just keep doing what you're doing, come on 😭. (They came in their pants a lot though ⁉ good for them ig). Her dialogue is great and the scenes feel true to the characters. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Vivian and Jules and reading more of this author's work in general. A few little birdies have told me that The X Ingredient is more the book I'm looking for (hey, I like romance and emotional development too 🙄😭 I don't only have a one track mind 😒😟😤):
"You care about me," Vivian said flatly. "It isn't just sexual. You care for me. I know that."
Jules nodded, trembling in spite of herself. She lacked the power to confirm or deny anything at all. Or to speak.
Vivian looked out the window into the darkness beyond. Jules could see her only in profile now. No bump yet, but she knew what was there.
"I care for you," Vivian said abruptly.
So gay 😹 and cute. I for real gasped like this was a period drama when this happened. And Jules teasing Vivian about her original proposal, bye.
In the meantime though, Vivian appeared to be returning to herself, and Jule's joy was starting to make her feel a little silly, to say nothing of smug.
"We don't have to have sex," she said prissily into Vivian's ear.
"Oh, shut up."
"Let's be all platonic and chaste."
Anyway, my exams are over, so it's time to devour every sapphic book in existence, just warning you 😚! (Hopefully some with covers that cause less eye damage but well).
━━━━━━━━━━━ ♡ ━━━━━━━━━━━
April 8, 2022
Review to come, but spoiler: this is my new fave book (with part 2).
December 28, 2022
5 stars for the audiobook version
Updated review for the audiobook version, narrated by Abby Craden. This was a MUCH better experience for me. While the written book felt like it dragged a bit too much until the 65 percent mark, in the voice of Abby it felt more like a delicious slow burn. It's true what they say - the right narrator can absolutely raise the level of an experience and Craden definitely did that here. There were times that I actually had to stop the book and exclaim out loud, it was so hot! Whew! My oh my.
Book two, Above All Things, worked much better for me via the written word so I fully expect to combust when I hear Abby's take on it.
Original review for the ebook version:
3 stars
I've been hearing tremendous praise for Telanu's Truth and Measure DWP fanfic for years. While I've not had the pleasure of reading it, some of the authors whose writing I respect the most (including Lee Winter and Milena McKay) cite it as their favorite. So my expectations were quite high going in.
I was surprised, then, to find that the story dragged well into the second half of the book. Until then it was just basic foundation building - fashion magazine mogul Vivian Carlisle is running her magazine with an iron fist. Everyone is in awe of and terrified by her in equal measure. But she's the best and anyone interested in the industry would give their right arm to be there. Enter Jules Moretti, her tortured assistant who is expected to - and does - wait on her hand and foot for nearly all of her waking hours. And then some.
When Vivian finds out she's pregnant during a painful divorce, she leans even more on Jules - who is happy to oblige. Jules harbors feelings for Vivian, who she knows would never see her for more than what she is - an underling to whom she barely gives the time of day. But suddenly Vivian shocks Jules by opening the door ever so slightly, letting her get a glimpse of the woman behind the power. But it's a painfully slow opening, and it leaves Jules more confused than anything. Until finally something gives. At about the 65 percent mark is where the story starts to pick up steam and we get more of what we expect from Sinclair - anticipation, excitement, heat.
I have a strong feeling that the second volume - Above All Things - will bring much more to the table now that the foundation has been laid. By the end of Measure, we are given a tantalizing look at the challenges that lie ahead. I'm really looking forward to reading that next!
Ylva Publishing provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Updated review for the audiobook version, narrated by Abby Craden. This was a MUCH better experience for me. While the written book felt like it dragged a bit too much until the 65 percent mark, in the voice of Abby it felt more like a delicious slow burn. It's true what they say - the right narrator can absolutely raise the level of an experience and Craden definitely did that here. There were times that I actually had to stop the book and exclaim out loud, it was so hot! Whew! My oh my.
Book two, Above All Things, worked much better for me via the written word so I fully expect to combust when I hear Abby's take on it.
Original review for the ebook version:
3 stars
I've been hearing tremendous praise for Telanu's Truth and Measure DWP fanfic for years. While I've not had the pleasure of reading it, some of the authors whose writing I respect the most (including Lee Winter and Milena McKay) cite it as their favorite. So my expectations were quite high going in.
I was surprised, then, to find that the story dragged well into the second half of the book. Until then it was just basic foundation building - fashion magazine mogul Vivian Carlisle is running her magazine with an iron fist. Everyone is in awe of and terrified by her in equal measure. But she's the best and anyone interested in the industry would give their right arm to be there. Enter Jules Moretti, her tortured assistant who is expected to - and does - wait on her hand and foot for nearly all of her waking hours. And then some.
When Vivian finds out she's pregnant during a painful divorce, she leans even more on Jules - who is happy to oblige. Jules harbors feelings for Vivian, who she knows would never see her for more than what she is - an underling to whom she barely gives the time of day. But suddenly Vivian shocks Jules by opening the door ever so slightly, letting her get a glimpse of the woman behind the power. But it's a painfully slow opening, and it leaves Jules more confused than anything. Until finally something gives. At about the 65 percent mark is where the story starts to pick up steam and we get more of what we expect from Sinclair - anticipation, excitement, heat.
I have a strong feeling that the second volume - Above All Things - will bring much more to the table now that the foundation has been laid. By the end of Measure, we are given a tantalizing look at the challenges that lie ahead. I'm really looking forward to reading that next!
Ylva Publishing provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2022
“Truth and Measure” by Roslyn Sinclair is a steamy age-gap romance between Vivian Carlisle, the editor of a fashion magazine, and her very much younger assistant, Julia (Jules) Moretti. Fans of ice queens in the work place will especially love this. It is the first of a two-part series.
I should start off saying that I did read the fanfic version of this years ago so this wasn’t brand new to me. There are some notable changes and Sinclair lowering the age-gap from 25 years to 17 actually made me laugh.
This is told from Jules’s point of view as she’s dealing with the changing relationship with her boss, Vivian. Vivian is a hard boss and is known for firing employees for the smallest mistake. She wants perfection and won’t stop until she gets it. Jules is hard working and tries to be as much of a Vivian mind reader as she can be. When Vivian finds herself in an unexpected position, she comes to depend on Jules even more.
I really liked this. I love the chemistry between Jules and Vivian and how Vivian only shows her soft side to Jules…and that’s only if Jules knows exactly what to look for. Vivian is an ice queen through and through which makes this a fun slow burn.
While I didn’t have this issue because of the fanfic, I do think this was hurt by not giving a better background on Vivian and Jules’s relationship and how it evolved, especially when it comes to Vivian. We don’t see much romance before they begin their relationship so it feels underdeveloped and I think that needed to be brought out some more. You meet them after they’ve been working together for a while so we don’t get the whole “getting to know you” setup.
Another issue I had were the sex scenes. There’s a lot of sobbing/screaming and orgasms without being touched and I thought they were unrealistic and over the top. This is more of a personal preference thing so your mileage may vary when it comes to this.
Overall, I enjoyed this and am excited to get to the sequel. This one ends a bit abruptly so I really need to know how it all plays out. Recommended!
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
I should start off saying that I did read the fanfic version of this years ago so this wasn’t brand new to me. There are some notable changes and Sinclair lowering the age-gap from 25 years to 17 actually made me laugh.
This is told from Jules’s point of view as she’s dealing with the changing relationship with her boss, Vivian. Vivian is a hard boss and is known for firing employees for the smallest mistake. She wants perfection and won’t stop until she gets it. Jules is hard working and tries to be as much of a Vivian mind reader as she can be. When Vivian finds herself in an unexpected position, she comes to depend on Jules even more.
I really liked this. I love the chemistry between Jules and Vivian and how Vivian only shows her soft side to Jules…and that’s only if Jules knows exactly what to look for. Vivian is an ice queen through and through which makes this a fun slow burn.
While I didn’t have this issue because of the fanfic, I do think this was hurt by not giving a better background on Vivian and Jules’s relationship and how it evolved, especially when it comes to Vivian. We don’t see much romance before they begin their relationship so it feels underdeveloped and I think that needed to be brought out some more. You meet them after they’ve been working together for a while so we don’t get the whole “getting to know you” setup.
Another issue I had were the sex scenes. There’s a lot of sobbing/screaming and orgasms without being touched and I thought they were unrealistic and over the top. This is more of a personal preference thing so your mileage may vary when it comes to this.
Overall, I enjoyed this and am excited to get to the sequel. This one ends a bit abruptly so I really need to know how it all plays out. Recommended!
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2022
I’ve been looking forward to reading Truth and Measure by Roslyn Sinclair since I heard this novel was being published. After all, who doesn’t love to read a slow-burn, age-gap, workplace romance with an ice queen for a main character? Add in the fact this is the first of a two book series, and I’m hooked before I even open the book!
The story is set in the world of high fashion. Vivian Carlisle, at age 42, is at the pinnacle of her career, the head of the popular fashion magazine, Du Jour. She has had to sacrifice to get where she is, which may be the reason she is going through her third divorce. Then the unthinkable happens. Vivian finds herself pregnant, and the only person she can trust with this new development is her assistant, Julia (Jules) Moretti. Jules has worked hard to be the perfect assistant, though she secretly wants to be a writer. While being Vivian’s assistant is not her dream job, she just can’t seem to leave. Could it have something to do with those secret feelings she gets when she is around her boss?
This is a fast-paced tale of love, lust, intrigue, and fashion set in the upper crust areas of New York and London. The characters are well-developed and are perfect for their roles in the story. Vivian is the consummate ice queen in this world. There are also moments of humor that will sometimes sneak up on you and have you laughing out loud as you read.
Truth and Measure has all of my favorite tropes. I’m so glad I had the chance to read this love story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series which will continue the tale of Vivian and Jules. Luckily it will be published very soon.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
The story is set in the world of high fashion. Vivian Carlisle, at age 42, is at the pinnacle of her career, the head of the popular fashion magazine, Du Jour. She has had to sacrifice to get where she is, which may be the reason she is going through her third divorce. Then the unthinkable happens. Vivian finds herself pregnant, and the only person she can trust with this new development is her assistant, Julia (Jules) Moretti. Jules has worked hard to be the perfect assistant, though she secretly wants to be a writer. While being Vivian’s assistant is not her dream job, she just can’t seem to leave. Could it have something to do with those secret feelings she gets when she is around her boss?
This is a fast-paced tale of love, lust, intrigue, and fashion set in the upper crust areas of New York and London. The characters are well-developed and are perfect for their roles in the story. Vivian is the consummate ice queen in this world. There are also moments of humor that will sometimes sneak up on you and have you laughing out loud as you read.
Truth and Measure has all of my favorite tropes. I’m so glad I had the chance to read this love story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series which will continue the tale of Vivian and Jules. Luckily it will be published very soon.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
May 14, 2023
didn’t mean to moan like that my bad
July 14, 2023
4.5 Stars for Truth and Measure (audiobook) by Roslyn Sinclair read by Abby Craden.
This starts out kind of like The Devil Wears Prada but then it goes off in a different direction. The boss is pregnant and getting a divorce and the assistant falls in love with her. They both have their own expertise and they’re guiding each other on their journey.
This starts out kind of like The Devil Wears Prada but then it goes off in a different direction. The boss is pregnant and getting a divorce and the assistant falls in love with her. They both have their own expertise and they’re guiding each other on their journey.
January 19, 2023
Me: Queuing up the next book...
My ARCs: "B*tch, get your *ss back here!!!"
I don't even know why I loved this as much as I did, but here we are. Fantastic characters, great narrative voice, and excellent chemistry. I think what might have sold it for me was the platonic relationship thing - even though it imploded, I really enjoyed the exploration of such an option (not to mention the extra tension from all that seduction).
I definitely recommend the audio version! There are some weird accents (we all know Abby Craden's accents are not her strong suit), but the voices, especially Vivian's *swoon*
My ARCs: "B*tch, get your *ss back here!!!"
I don't even know why I loved this as much as I did, but here we are. Fantastic characters, great narrative voice, and excellent chemistry. I think what might have sold it for me was the platonic relationship thing - even though it imploded, I really enjoyed the exploration of such an option (not to mention the extra tension from all that seduction).
I definitely recommend the audio version! There are some weird accents (we all know Abby Craden's accents are not her strong suit), but the voices, especially Vivian's *swoon*
January 21, 2023
I listened to it for the QLLC January challenge.
I loved the original fanfic and it’s a masterpiece in the DWP universe. I think the author did a very good job in transforming the fanfic in an “every day” book but some things work better in the fanfic than in this book (extreme power imbalance and age-gap) in my opinion.
And Abby Craden did a good job with the narration but it wasn’t outstanding like some other audiobooks of her. As Sam pointed out: the German accent was not very good.
So overall a 4 ⭐️.
I loved the original fanfic and it’s a masterpiece in the DWP universe. I think the author did a very good job in transforming the fanfic in an “every day” book but some things work better in the fanfic than in this book (extreme power imbalance and age-gap) in my opinion.
And Abby Craden did a good job with the narration but it wasn’t outstanding like some other audiobooks of her. As Sam pointed out: the German accent was not very good.
So overall a 4 ⭐️.
Read
January 24, 2025GOD, what the hell did I just read? 🤣 Never in my life have I been so conflicted on how to rate a book. Also, Roslyn Sinclair is now two for two on making me completely forgo a star rating because I can’t even begin to come up with one (Looking at you, The Lily and the Crown). I’m sensing a pattern here. But will I still read her books? Hell yeah! I can explain…
So, there were a lot of things about this book I didn’t necessarily like. For one, in the beginning of the book, was THE worst. Look, I love a good ice queen. I’m still riding my Michelle Hastings high courtesy of one Lee Winter. But Vivian was just SO over-the-top unpleasant, and it was starting to kinda give me the ick.
However…I literally could NOT stop listening. I was hanging onto this book, begging Sinclair to give me even one iota of tenderness from Vivian. I think a lot of that had to do with how relatable I found Jules’ increasing obsession/infatuation with Vivian. Oooof, I think we’ve all been there. 😅 Plus, like, Vivian was…extremely hot. Duh.
But when things *finally* started to get romantic, it was honestly kinda weird?? Without spoiling anything, that scene left me scratching my head. Plus, Vivian seemed to undergo a personality transplant. But again, I was entranced and could not stop reading. And that paid off for me, because there were plenty of absolutely scorching moments to come! Of course Vivian is hot, but Jules, HELLO?? I ended up finding her just as captivating as the ice queen!
There were also some tiny sweet moments that made me hopeful for the relationship development in the second book. I loved the juxtaposition of Vivian’s extreme frostiness and the tenderness of her newfound little family unit. I’ve never read anything like it before.
Onto book 2!!!!!
TL;DR: Two of my brain cells read this book. One was analytical and wanted to nitpick everything to death. The other went absolutely feral.
So, there were a lot of things about this book I didn’t necessarily like. For one, in the beginning of the book, was THE worst. Look, I love a good ice queen. I’m still riding my Michelle Hastings high courtesy of one Lee Winter. But Vivian was just SO over-the-top unpleasant, and it was starting to kinda give me the ick.
However…I literally could NOT stop listening. I was hanging onto this book, begging Sinclair to give me even one iota of tenderness from Vivian. I think a lot of that had to do with how relatable I found Jules’ increasing obsession/infatuation with Vivian. Oooof, I think we’ve all been there. 😅 Plus, like, Vivian was…extremely hot. Duh.
But when things *finally* started to get romantic, it was honestly kinda weird?? Without spoiling anything, that scene left me scratching my head. Plus, Vivian seemed to undergo a personality transplant. But again, I was entranced and could not stop reading. And that paid off for me, because there were plenty of absolutely scorching moments to come! Of course Vivian is hot, but Jules, HELLO?? I ended up finding her just as captivating as the ice queen!
There were also some tiny sweet moments that made me hopeful for the relationship development in the second book. I loved the juxtaposition of Vivian’s extreme frostiness and the tenderness of her newfound little family unit. I’ve never read anything like it before.
Onto book 2!!!!!
TL;DR: Two of my brain cells read this book. One was analytical and wanted to nitpick everything to death. The other went absolutely feral.
May 16, 2022
I waited to review Truth and Measure until after I'd finished book 2 so that I could review them both together, and I can pretty much some them up with WOW. I had heard SO much about Truth and Measure over the years. SO. MUCH. My expectations were sky high! And yet the books still managed to exceed them. They are crackishly addictive to read. Smart. Hot. Funny. Did I mention HOT?! Because WHEW!!! I binged them both together, and I feel like I've been on an epic journey, one I'm sure I'll repeat, because these books are definitely going on my reread shelf. Highly recommended!
April 26, 2022
I have read Truth and Measure fan fiction several times, but this revised book edition is still captivating. The twins are gone, but it does not make the story any less alluring. I read this book right after McKay’s Whisper of Solace. Both stories stem from DWP fan fiction. Both authors writes differently, but both are compelling pieces.
February 8, 2024
Great reading. I loved both books. The first Truth and Measure was really good. The writing, the characters and the build up. Then I read the continuation of the story in Above all Things and loved that even more. The two books should definitely be read after each other because in essence it’s one story. I loved the way the characters and their life and love developed in the second book and the way they tackled the problems they encountered. I also loved the bits of humour in the book. Roslyn Sinclair is a great writer and I certainly will read any of her new books that I hope are coming.
April 25, 2022
ARC received via Ylva in exchange for and honest review
I admit to a little trepidation before reading this, because I’d read it in its original fanfic format and it’s highly regarded as one of the best Mirandy fics. Once I heard it would be published I didn’t re-read it again, so it’s been awhile, and I wasn’t sure how it would stand the test of time, especially as it was written before the ‘Me Too’ movement.
So, for those who’ve never read it or heard of it, this features MCs Vivian, the most powerful woman in fashion, who is head of the premiere fashion magazine and a total ice-queen, and her assistant, Julia (Jules). Vivian is a real hardass, and working for her us not for the faint of heart. Jules is working at the magazine as a stepping stone to her true desire, to be a writer.
The other somewhat main character is Simon, who also works for Vivian, and is the closest thing she has to a friend. He also used to be Jule’s boss, so has a good relationship with her. There’s some other peripheral characters around the magazine, but none are particularly fleshed out. Jules’ parents also appear, but mostly to harp about the ridiculous work hours and expectations that Vivian has for Jules, and in her father’s case, to (correctly) wonder if more is behind her motivations.
Vivian is in the middle of a divorce and discovers she’s pregnant. This leads to a shift in their relationship, as she begins to rely on Jules for everything. The two eventually work out they have feelings for each other and decide to move forward with a relationship, but aren’t on exactly the same page about how this will go, as Vivian has never been attracted to a woman before and prefers a romantic, but platonic type relationship, while Jules wants this to include sex. They eventually end up on the same page with that as well. I had some issues with how this part was handled, because I thought Vivian displayed personality traits of someone on the Ace spectrum, possibly demi-sexual, and yet this wasn’t explored at all, nor did I think Jules gave enough respect to Vivian’s request for how she wanted to handle the sexual side of their relationship. Jules just decided that Vivian was just in denial about what she really wanted (that being lots of sex with Jules) and kept pushing towards that, which kind of irked me.
I thought some of the changes made improved the book, but would have made a few more. Making Vivian younger and this her first baby was fine, but I’d have also made the current marriage her first. Seemed odd, and unrealistic, to me that a career driven woman who’s not particularly interested in sex or romance would marry three times by the age of 42. I also thought the stuff at the end with Simon didn’t make as much sense here without the back story from the original fanfic, which explained the motivation for that more, whereas in this book it didn’t really seem to have any basis.
The original was also an epic, so this is being published as two books, and therefore just sort of ends, with more to come in book two. Overall, I mostly enjoyed reading this again, and I’m looking forward to seeing what makes the cut in book 2. 3.75 stars.
I admit to a little trepidation before reading this, because I’d read it in its original fanfic format and it’s highly regarded as one of the best Mirandy fics. Once I heard it would be published I didn’t re-read it again, so it’s been awhile, and I wasn’t sure how it would stand the test of time, especially as it was written before the ‘Me Too’ movement.
So, for those who’ve never read it or heard of it, this features MCs Vivian, the most powerful woman in fashion, who is head of the premiere fashion magazine and a total ice-queen, and her assistant, Julia (Jules). Vivian is a real hardass, and working for her us not for the faint of heart. Jules is working at the magazine as a stepping stone to her true desire, to be a writer.
The other somewhat main character is Simon, who also works for Vivian, and is the closest thing she has to a friend. He also used to be Jule’s boss, so has a good relationship with her. There’s some other peripheral characters around the magazine, but none are particularly fleshed out. Jules’ parents also appear, but mostly to harp about the ridiculous work hours and expectations that Vivian has for Jules, and in her father’s case, to (correctly) wonder if more is behind her motivations.
Vivian is in the middle of a divorce and discovers she’s pregnant. This leads to a shift in their relationship, as she begins to rely on Jules for everything. The two eventually work out they have feelings for each other and decide to move forward with a relationship, but aren’t on exactly the same page about how this will go, as Vivian has never been attracted to a woman before and prefers a romantic, but platonic type relationship, while Jules wants this to include sex. They eventually end up on the same page with that as well. I had some issues with how this part was handled, because I thought Vivian displayed personality traits of someone on the Ace spectrum, possibly demi-sexual, and yet this wasn’t explored at all, nor did I think Jules gave enough respect to Vivian’s request for how she wanted to handle the sexual side of their relationship. Jules just decided that Vivian was just in denial about what she really wanted (that being lots of sex with Jules) and kept pushing towards that, which kind of irked me.
I thought some of the changes made improved the book, but would have made a few more. Making Vivian younger and this her first baby was fine, but I’d have also made the current marriage her first. Seemed odd, and unrealistic, to me that a career driven woman who’s not particularly interested in sex or romance would marry three times by the age of 42. I also thought the stuff at the end with Simon didn’t make as much sense here without the back story from the original fanfic, which explained the motivation for that more, whereas in this book it didn’t really seem to have any basis.
The original was also an epic, so this is being published as two books, and therefore just sort of ends, with more to come in book two. Overall, I mostly enjoyed reading this again, and I’m looking forward to seeing what makes the cut in book 2. 3.75 stars.
April 20, 2022
Jules Moretti is a very good assistant. She anticipates what fashion editor Vivian Carlisle needs before she says it. She has to or she would be unceremoniously fired like so many before her. When Vivian finds herself unexpected expecting, Jules finds herself become far more involved in her bosses life than she ever anticipated.
This is one of the most eagerly anticipated books of the year and it was well worth the wait. Roslyn Sinclair has adapted her Devil Wears Prade fanfic into two books. The second, Above All Things will be released in May. In Jules we get the overachieving girl next door, trying to make a go of her writing career while working for the iciest of fashion editors. Jules has a bit of hero worship for her boss and who can blame her. Vivian takes no shit, she's ridiculously hot and has power that most people can only dream about. That hero worship turns into something more when Vivian allows Jules to see her vulnerability.
Roslyn Sinclair is an incredibly gifted author. I really loved The X Ingredient and The Lily and the Crown. I liked this book and am looking forward to the second book, Above All Things. She excels at writing the ice queen. The only way the ice queen trope works is if the sweet character manages to thaw the queen. In this instance Vivian is thawed as much by the shocking situation she finds herself in as by her interaction with Jules. This makes for a very effective character arc. Her vulnerability comes through so beautifully I couldn't help but falling for her as well. Sinclair is also incredibly gifted at writing scenes that nearly set my Kindle ablaze. When things heat up, they heat up quickly and there is no turning back for either of them.
My only complaint is that I wish the romance would have been developed a bit more but I'm hoping we get more romance in book two. The book ends with a bit of a cliff hanger so I can't wait to dive into the second book and see what Roslyn Sinclair has in store for us. I am fairly certain it's going to be hot, emotional and with some twists I won't be anticipating and what more could we ask for.
An ARC was received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
This is one of the most eagerly anticipated books of the year and it was well worth the wait. Roslyn Sinclair has adapted her Devil Wears Prade fanfic into two books. The second, Above All Things will be released in May. In Jules we get the overachieving girl next door, trying to make a go of her writing career while working for the iciest of fashion editors. Jules has a bit of hero worship for her boss and who can blame her. Vivian takes no shit, she's ridiculously hot and has power that most people can only dream about. That hero worship turns into something more when Vivian allows Jules to see her vulnerability.
Roslyn Sinclair is an incredibly gifted author. I really loved The X Ingredient and The Lily and the Crown. I liked this book and am looking forward to the second book, Above All Things. She excels at writing the ice queen. The only way the ice queen trope works is if the sweet character manages to thaw the queen. In this instance Vivian is thawed as much by the shocking situation she finds herself in as by her interaction with Jules. This makes for a very effective character arc. Her vulnerability comes through so beautifully I couldn't help but falling for her as well. Sinclair is also incredibly gifted at writing scenes that nearly set my Kindle ablaze. When things heat up, they heat up quickly and there is no turning back for either of them.
My only complaint is that I wish the romance would have been developed a bit more but I'm hoping we get more romance in book two. The book ends with a bit of a cliff hanger so I can't wait to dive into the second book and see what Roslyn Sinclair has in store for us. I am fairly certain it's going to be hot, emotional and with some twists I won't be anticipating and what more could we ask for.
An ARC was received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
October 19, 2024
I am so disappointed. For an ice queen to be compelling, she needs to thaw eventually. Vivian remained unlikeable throughout the entire story. She treated Jules with disdain, as if she wanted nothing to do with her. Even her romantic declarations were cold and condescending. If this were a same-sex couple, there would be outcries about the toxic and emotionally abusive nature of the relationship.
I'm frustrated that I waited for a breakthrough that never came. I am annoyed that emotionally abusing your partner is seen as a 'swoon-worthy and hot' character trait. I know their story continues in the sequel, but I honestly couldn't care less if Vivian and Jules break up and never see each other again.
I'm frustrated that I waited for a breakthrough that never came. I am annoyed that emotionally abusing your partner is seen as a 'swoon-worthy and hot' character trait. I know their story continues in the sequel, but I honestly couldn't care less if Vivian and Jules break up and never see each other again.
April 16, 2022
Ms. Sinclair's latest is set in the world of print media and fashion magazines - the unrelenting need to present visual enticements in photos and articles to stay in vogue.
Vivien Carlisle, head honcho at such a fashion magazine is uncompromising in her vision, cutting without compunction anyone she deems useless in her quest to keep Du Jour on top. Little does she know that soon her control will be upended.
Jules Moretti has a hidden passion to be a fashion writer and recognizes that she can learn a great deal from Vivien but that ambition is secondary to performing her duties as Vivien's personal assistant. Messy divorce proceedings and a shocking pregnancy revelation is the tipping point for a slight crack in an icy demeanor and as events unfold and life become somewhat uncontrollable, Vivien relies even more on warm Jules. As they slowly grow closer physically and emotionally, Jules is warned by friends and family to retain some independence, not to succumb too quickly. But such is life, there are hiccups to come, backroom machinations and perceived disloyalty which must be worked through before any emotional peace is possible.
Looking forward to book 2 and what happens next.
Vivien Carlisle, head honcho at such a fashion magazine is uncompromising in her vision, cutting without compunction anyone she deems useless in her quest to keep Du Jour on top. Little does she know that soon her control will be upended.
Jules Moretti has a hidden passion to be a fashion writer and recognizes that she can learn a great deal from Vivien but that ambition is secondary to performing her duties as Vivien's personal assistant. Messy divorce proceedings and a shocking pregnancy revelation is the tipping point for a slight crack in an icy demeanor and as events unfold and life become somewhat uncontrollable, Vivien relies even more on warm Jules. As they slowly grow closer physically and emotionally, Jules is warned by friends and family to retain some independence, not to succumb too quickly. But such is life, there are hiccups to come, backroom machinations and perceived disloyalty which must be worked through before any emotional peace is possible.
Looking forward to book 2 and what happens next.
April 29, 2022
I knew about the "The Devil Wears Prada" lesfic series by Telanu, but once I learned that Ylva was going to publish it, I’ve decided to wait for the published version.
And what can I say? So far, so very good.
Now I'm waiting anxiously for "Above All Things", the second part of the story.
And what can I say? So far, so very good.
Now I'm waiting anxiously for "Above All Things", the second part of the story.
April 24, 2022
This is the book of the year. Scratch that, it’s the book of the decade, of the century!!! I’ve been addicted to the fanfic for as long as I can remember. In fact, I’ve never been able to move on from it, not completely. And so when I found out that this book was coming out, I was just dying to read it and let me tell you, the wait was so worth it!!! I am delighted and so ecstatic and excited and just super giddy about all this! This book is, without a shadow of a doubt, the most beautiful work of art I’ve ever read. It’s the perfect age-gap + ice queen story. Vivian and Julia are simply phenomenal and I love them both to pieces. I just finished reading this and I don’t know how to explain it, but I’m in a state of blissful happiness and warmth and comfort. This is awesome! I mean, I know there’s a lot more to come and all, but I’m just so 🥰😍
Brava!! Bless you and thank you, Roslyn Sinclair!!! You’re the best!
100% recommend this stunning work of art!
P.S.: I really cannot wait for the second book!! I’m already counting down the days, the minutes, the seconds!!
Brava!! Bless you and thank you, Roslyn Sinclair!!! You’re the best!
100% recommend this stunning work of art!
P.S.: I really cannot wait for the second book!! I’m already counting down the days, the minutes, the seconds!!
January 17, 2023
I’ve stayed away from this book because I thought it wouldn’t be for me, I wasn’t wrong.
When this book came up as the first group read for QLLC I figured I could at least give it a try.
I even went further out of my comfort zone and decided on the audiobook narrated by Abby Craden.
First things first, Abby’s accents are horrible. I’m still not over her terrible German accent in this book and the attempt at what I think was supposed to be French. Awful. Towards the end of each chapter, the last line mostly, Abby did something weird as well, put so much emphasis on that it was strange.
While in general the narration was ok, these things stick with me and make it less enjoyable.
Ok, the story. For me it was flat and boring, I was tempted to DNF many times. I don’t know if it was because of the story, the fanfic origin (I don’t care for fanfic), the writing, the narration or just me. Or all of it. Who’s to say, really? This book really didn’t grab my attention and just frustrated me, that is until there was a shift towards 3/4 of the book. It got better, I enjoyed it more. What I liked was that the power imbalance and age difference was addressed in an adult way, communication is key, but the response was pretty childlike. I guess that’s the age difference. This book is weird…
I think what didn’t work for me here is that the ice queen is just odd, and not in a good way. The banter doesn’t really work because I don’t see the chemistry between the characters and most of the secondary characters are either annoying or bland.
Just didn’t work for me, I guess if you are into fanfic and like age gap and ice queens this would work much better for you.
When this book came up as the first group read for QLLC I figured I could at least give it a try.
I even went further out of my comfort zone and decided on the audiobook narrated by Abby Craden.
First things first, Abby’s accents are horrible. I’m still not over her terrible German accent in this book and the attempt at what I think was supposed to be French. Awful. Towards the end of each chapter, the last line mostly, Abby did something weird as well, put so much emphasis on that it was strange.
While in general the narration was ok, these things stick with me and make it less enjoyable.
Ok, the story. For me it was flat and boring, I was tempted to DNF many times. I don’t know if it was because of the story, the fanfic origin (I don’t care for fanfic), the writing, the narration or just me. Or all of it. Who’s to say, really? This book really didn’t grab my attention and just frustrated me, that is until there was a shift towards 3/4 of the book. It got better, I enjoyed it more. What I liked was that the power imbalance and age difference was addressed in an adult way, communication is key, but the response was pretty childlike. I guess that’s the age difference. This book is weird…
I think what didn’t work for me here is that the ice queen is just odd, and not in a good way. The banter doesn’t really work because I don’t see the chemistry between the characters and most of the secondary characters are either annoying or bland.
Just didn’t work for me, I guess if you are into fanfic and like age gap and ice queens this would work much better for you.
May 26, 2022
I’ve been waiting to read this novel since 2018, when I first heard the Truth and Measure fanfic was being adapted into an original romance novel and it was absolutely worth the wait! I sat down and devoured it in a single sitting, and it’s taking everything I have not to immediately start the sequel at 1:42 AM.
Cannot recommend this book enough, especially to sapphic romance readers!
Note: Thank you to Ylva for providing me with a digital arc of this title! This did not impact my review at all. I’ve already purchased a paperback for my shelf!
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Cannot recommend this book enough, especially to sapphic romance readers!
Note: Thank you to Ylva for providing me with a digital arc of this title! This did not impact my review at all. I’ve already purchased a paperback for my shelf!
Love sapphic books, too? Let's be friends! Booktok | Bookstagram | Twitter
April 17, 2022
Holy moly, this was amazing! I couldn't put it down from the first chapter.
April 22, 2022
I think this is one of the most anticipated books of the year, and for good reason! I have never read the original fanfiction, so I didn't know what to expect and just dove right in.
Jules Moretti (26) dreams of being a fashion writer, but she currently works as a personal assistant to Vivian Carlisle (42.) The story starts with Jules already working as a PA, so their working relationship is already established. We learn that Jules is really adept at her job, but is still mighty scared of Vivian. Their lives change when they find out that Vivian is pregnant with her soon-to-be ex-husband's baby and only Jules knows about it.
As expected, the book is extremely well-written. It has an interesting story, and up until around 60-70%, I couldn't stop reading because it was so engaging. I loved reading about Jules and how she navigated through the events that transpired.
The thing with Roslyn Sinclair's ice queens, though, is that I find them too cold--frozen, even. I really love ice queens especially when they are destroying people who deserve it. But one thing I really love about them is their hidden softness. Throughout the book, it was difficult to see that human side of Vivian. Sometimes I even felt that she was downright cruel, which made it difficult for me to really like her. She slowly grew on me towards the end, though.
One of the things I didn’t like very much is the lack of romance. I’m not sure if it’s being marketed as a romance novel, but I don’t see how they could have fallen for each other. Sexual attraction and love are not the same things. I think this is an important part which the book lacks. There were also parts that seemed dragging, so it took me a few more days to finish the book. The ending, however, seemed rush. I know that there is still a second book, but it felt like they ignored the major conflict/problem and just went on with their lives.
Overall, it was still a good book and I wasn’t disappointed at all. Looking forward to the next part! :)
An arc was given in exchange for an honest review. :)
Jules Moretti (26) dreams of being a fashion writer, but she currently works as a personal assistant to Vivian Carlisle (42.) The story starts with Jules already working as a PA, so their working relationship is already established. We learn that Jules is really adept at her job, but is still mighty scared of Vivian. Their lives change when they find out that Vivian is pregnant with her soon-to-be ex-husband's baby and only Jules knows about it.
As expected, the book is extremely well-written. It has an interesting story, and up until around 60-70%, I couldn't stop reading because it was so engaging. I loved reading about Jules and how she navigated through the events that transpired.
The thing with Roslyn Sinclair's ice queens, though, is that I find them too cold--frozen, even. I really love ice queens especially when they are destroying people who deserve it. But one thing I really love about them is their hidden softness. Throughout the book, it was difficult to see that human side of Vivian. Sometimes I even felt that she was downright cruel, which made it difficult for me to really like her. She slowly grew on me towards the end, though.
One of the things I didn’t like very much is the lack of romance. I’m not sure if it’s being marketed as a romance novel, but I don’t see how they could have fallen for each other. Sexual attraction and love are not the same things. I think this is an important part which the book lacks. There were also parts that seemed dragging, so it took me a few more days to finish the book. The ending, however, seemed rush. I know that there is still a second book, but it felt like they ignored the major conflict/problem and just went on with their lives.
Overall, it was still a good book and I wasn’t disappointed at all. Looking forward to the next part! :)
An arc was given in exchange for an honest review. :)
September 7, 2023
LOVED THIS ONE!!
fakt, że to książka napisana na podstawie fanfika o Mirandzie i Andrea’i z DWP makes my heart go 💗💞💝💘💕💖💞💓💘
fakt, że to książka napisana na podstawie fanfika o Mirandzie i Andrea’i z DWP makes my heart go 💗💞💝💘💕💖💞💓💘
May 15, 2024
I’m way late in reading/listening to this one. Abby Craden was fantastic and I can’t say enough good things about her narration. This reminded me a lot of Winter’s book-The Brutal Truth, Elena Bartell and Vivian Carlisle are two sides of the same coin. Both of them have a love for their partner that is all encompassing. I don’t have words to describe the feelings that their passion and depth mean to me.
January 20, 2023
4.5 rounded up to 5 Stars. I enjoyed this much more than anticipated, not that Rosyln Sinclair isn't a fabulous writer because she is, more so that (sacrilege I know) I didn't care for the original fanfic. I much more enjoyed watching the thawing of Vivian by Jules and seeing a much more equitable relationship and that Jules while still young and awestruck shows she has a backbone. Looking forward to continuing this story in Above All Things. And as always, thoroughly enjoyed Abby Craden's narration.
July 15, 2024
Review to follow because I AM READING IT AGAIN — that's how much I, a big fan of the fanfic version, love it! 🔥⭐️
EDIT: AFTER SECOND TIME READING THE BOOK
The fanfic version will always be my all-time favourite fic in the MirAndy fandom, but I have to agree with some reviews that this book version turns out to be better than the fanfic. I say this for the following reasons:
- Despite some changes, the fanfic's charm and allure remained intact throughout the book.
- The omitted bits did, as a matter of fact, improve the pacing of the story. Not gonna lie, I was disheartened at first when I found out that there would be no twins in the book. I worried it would make the story less emotionally uplifting, but it never felt to me that way. The twins's absence, I think, actually paved way for more uninterrupted interactions between our two MCs.
- And since the fanfic was published almost 10 years ago, modifications in relation to technology and fashion were necessary. And in most cases, they made certain scenes much better—some of them are my favourites from the fanfic.
All in all, I really enjoyed reading this published version of 'Truth and Measure.' Roslyn Sinclair (aka Telanu) did an excellent job at rewriting it without losing the poignancy and the appeal that the story has as a fanfic.
P.S. THIS IS MY SECOND TIME READING BOOK 1, AND I CAN'T WAIT TO READ BOOK 2, 'ABOVE ALL THINGS,' ON MAY 4TH ❤️
EDIT: AFTER SECOND TIME READING THE BOOK
The fanfic version will always be my all-time favourite fic in the MirAndy fandom, but I have to agree with some reviews that this book version turns out to be better than the fanfic. I say this for the following reasons:
- Despite some changes, the fanfic's charm and allure remained intact throughout the book.
- The omitted bits did, as a matter of fact, improve the pacing of the story. Not gonna lie, I was disheartened at first when I found out that there would be no twins in the book. I worried it would make the story less emotionally uplifting, but it never felt to me that way. The twins's absence, I think, actually paved way for more uninterrupted interactions between our two MCs.
- And since the fanfic was published almost 10 years ago, modifications in relation to technology and fashion were necessary. And in most cases, they made certain scenes much better—some of them are my favourites from the fanfic.
All in all, I really enjoyed reading this published version of 'Truth and Measure.' Roslyn Sinclair (aka Telanu) did an excellent job at rewriting it without losing the poignancy and the appeal that the story has as a fanfic.
P.S. THIS IS MY SECOND TIME READING BOOK 1, AND I CAN'T WAIT TO READ BOOK 2, 'ABOVE ALL THINGS,' ON MAY 4TH ❤️
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