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Dark Blue Waves
When you wake up in Bath, England two hundred years in the past, how far can a love of Jane Austen get you?
Janet Roberts dreams of an academic career in literature, so she can hardly believe her good fortune when she’s accepted into a Jane Austen graduate seminar in Bath, England. Settled in Georgian splendor among her seminar colleagues, Janet and her classmates live, eat and breathe Jane Austen.
An accident interrupts this idyll when Janet regains consciousness in her own room—back in Regency England. For a scholar of nineteenth-century literature, this should be a dream come true.
But Janet quickly learns there’s a world of difference between scholarly knowledge of the written page and maneuvering real life as a reluctant time traveler.
Her burgeoning friendship with Emma Huntington eases her entrée into nineteenth-century society. However, Emma’s brother, the handsome, proud and frustratingly magnetic Sir Edward, is far less welcoming.
While desperately attempting to make sense of her dilemma, Janet treads a thin line between trying to blend into her new world and not being unmasked as the imposter she is. Can she find the way to return to her twenty-first century life before her secret is discovered? After working so hard to create a rewarding nineteenth-century life for herself, does she even want to?
Janet Roberts dreams of an academic career in literature, so she can hardly believe her good fortune when she’s accepted into a Jane Austen graduate seminar in Bath, England. Settled in Georgian splendor among her seminar colleagues, Janet and her classmates live, eat and breathe Jane Austen.
An accident interrupts this idyll when Janet regains consciousness in her own room—back in Regency England. For a scholar of nineteenth-century literature, this should be a dream come true.
But Janet quickly learns there’s a world of difference between scholarly knowledge of the written page and maneuvering real life as a reluctant time traveler.
Her burgeoning friendship with Emma Huntington eases her entrée into nineteenth-century society. However, Emma’s brother, the handsome, proud and frustratingly magnetic Sir Edward, is far less welcoming.
While desperately attempting to make sense of her dilemma, Janet treads a thin line between trying to blend into her new world and not being unmasked as the imposter she is. Can she find the way to return to her twenty-first century life before her secret is discovered? After working so hard to create a rewarding nineteenth-century life for herself, does she even want to?
444 pages, Paperback
Published May 30, 2022
20 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Sullivan
9 books134 followersI write the women’s fiction stories I love to read, both contemporary and historic tales of women and the rich lives they lead along their journeys of self-discovery. A lifetime admirer and longtime resident of Italy, I’m often guilty of sneaking the bel paese into my stories.
Award-winning author of five novels, one short story collection and coeditor of two historical fiction anthologies. Proud member of the Women's Fiction Writers Association (WFWA), and the Historical Novel Society.
Please follow me on BookBub at: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kimbe...
Award-winning author of five novels, one short story collection and coeditor of two historical fiction anthologies. Proud member of the Women's Fiction Writers Association (WFWA), and the Historical Novel Society.
Please follow me on BookBub at: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kimbe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 15, 2022
Oh, what incredible fun this book is to read! Jane Austin fan? Check! Time-traveling fan? Check! Romantic romance fan? Check! This lovely story elegantly braids references to art, music, poetry and architecture with a light fluidity that caused me to marvel more than once at how the obvious love the author has for 19th century culture must have propelled her research, and surely, must be personal passions. Yet the book is equally at home in the past and today’s time period. Sullivan’s subtle switching between 19th century and 21st century structure of speech in her character’s dialogue appeared effortless. Each set of characters is true to their times.
I loved how Sullivan cleverly incorporated references to Jane Austin’s work and so grounded me in this story. First, in its setting: The dual time periods take place where? Bath, of course.. Secondly, in the references to Austin’s books themselves—individual characters, romance and exploits are threaded throughout the narrative--giving color and dimension each time they’re noted. And finally, the very fact that Austin’s books have retained their popularity for two hundred years binds this story’s dual time periods together.
But perhaps the part I loved best was the wonderful mental observations the time-traveling protagonist made between the two worlds and how the 19th century’s slower pace—empty of our technological gadgets and crazed compression of time—grew on her. It’s bold to derive a story around a device like time-travel and construct the rules to make it plausible, but Sullivan has done it. What a fun ride!
I loved how Sullivan cleverly incorporated references to Jane Austin’s work and so grounded me in this story. First, in its setting: The dual time periods take place where? Bath, of course.. Secondly, in the references to Austin’s books themselves—individual characters, romance and exploits are threaded throughout the narrative--giving color and dimension each time they’re noted. And finally, the very fact that Austin’s books have retained their popularity for two hundred years binds this story’s dual time periods together.
But perhaps the part I loved best was the wonderful mental observations the time-traveling protagonist made between the two worlds and how the 19th century’s slower pace—empty of our technological gadgets and crazed compression of time—grew on her. It’s bold to derive a story around a device like time-travel and construct the rules to make it plausible, but Sullivan has done it. What a fun ride!
June 10, 2022
Although I don’t tend to read time travel books I’m always intrigued when I do. This book is perfect for fans of the Outlander series or The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue.
I felt for Janet scouring her brain for facts about 1813 so she would not come across as an imposter while communicating with people in the past. And even if you’re not a big Jane Austen fan you can appreciate Janet’s relief when the only thing connecting her to reality are Austen’s novels.
Delightful and entertaining read that will place you in an alternative time period from a modern perspective.
I felt for Janet scouring her brain for facts about 1813 so she would not come across as an imposter while communicating with people in the past. And even if you’re not a big Jane Austen fan you can appreciate Janet’s relief when the only thing connecting her to reality are Austen’s novels.
Delightful and entertaining read that will place you in an alternative time period from a modern perspective.
July 1, 2022
This is a wonderful novel for those who love Jane Austen. Janet is so excited to get a reprieve from her fathers prying eyes as she takes a semester in Bath the iconic setting of a few of Ms..Austen's novels. She is going to be taking a course in English literature. That is until a crazy mishap sets her back to the 1900s. You would think Janet would be excited to learn first hand but she is frightened and alone. She is in danger of being found out, plus she misses her life.
This was a beautifully told novel of history, family and career paths. It makes you think on your life and what you would do given the chance to travel back in time to explore. I was quickly engrossed and was sad when this story ended.
This was a beautifully told novel of history, family and career paths. It makes you think on your life and what you would do given the chance to travel back in time to explore. I was quickly engrossed and was sad when this story ended.
May 28, 2022
A charming story for readers who love Jane Austen and the Regency period in England. Cleverly plotted, the adventures of 21st-century Janet Roberts as she time slips to 1813 and back again had me turning the pages to find out how she would get to her happy ending. The picture of life in a rural manor house of two centuries ago was drawn with a loving hand. I looked up to find myself in 20th-century Connecticut to my surprise- like Janet, I’d been transported to a more delightful time.
March 3, 2022
I'm a fan of historical fiction and books with more of a sci-fi element to them (looking at you "Kindred"), so I was drawn to this book from the description instantly.
I will say there were pluses (a lot) and minuses (a lot). The first quarter of the book felt like it needed more editing - there were lots of cases where the main character (Janet) had the same thought on almost every other page, which made it feel tedious. In other cases, contradictions were made that should have been addressed (commenting about the poor air quality in Bath and automobiles being created to "improve" emissions and then later a paragraph about the fresh air and cars and emissions being years away). The biggest one had to deal with Janet's disappearance the first time and her re-appearance - people were around her when it first happened in the book. The story told at her re-appearance seemed to indicate that was not the case. There were also many cases (especially in the later part of the book) where time jumped significantly between one paragraph to the next, with absolutely no indication. I don't expect chapters in these cases, but some sort of break as most books show would have helped me stay with the story and not be so confused for the first sentence or two, causing me to re-read the previous paragraph again.
That being said, the story was great and I wanted to know how it would end, unlike a lot that I just feel as if I'm reading to finish, not really caring how it ends up. I would absolutely read a sequel if the author ever does write one.
I will say there were pluses (a lot) and minuses (a lot). The first quarter of the book felt like it needed more editing - there were lots of cases where the main character (Janet) had the same thought on almost every other page, which made it feel tedious. In other cases, contradictions were made that should have been addressed (commenting about the poor air quality in Bath and automobiles being created to "improve" emissions and then later a paragraph about the fresh air and cars and emissions being years away). The biggest one had to deal with Janet's disappearance the first time and her re-appearance - people were around her when it first happened in the book. The story told at her re-appearance seemed to indicate that was not the case. There were also many cases (especially in the later part of the book) where time jumped significantly between one paragraph to the next, with absolutely no indication. I don't expect chapters in these cases, but some sort of break as most books show would have helped me stay with the story and not be so confused for the first sentence or two, causing me to re-read the previous paragraph again.
That being said, the story was great and I wanted to know how it would end, unlike a lot that I just feel as if I'm reading to finish, not really caring how it ends up. I would absolutely read a sequel if the author ever does write one.
May 14, 2022
Dark Blue Waves provides a genteel reading journey, wrapping a love of Jane Austen around time travel romance. When Janet arrives in Bath, England, she’s anticipating months of immersing into the works of her favorite writer. But she’s also being forced to intern with an architecture firm hand-chosen by her cold, domineering father.
The author’s admiration for Austen’s works is evident in past and present. References flow across the storylines, centering Janet as she navigates both worlds, though she doesn’t quite fit into either. She’s a bit too reserved and bookish for her current life, and too outspoken and forward-thinking for the rigid Regency time period she tumbles into. Yet the true friendship and beguiling romance she discovers there has her pondering which era she should ultimately embrace – if she even has a choice. Jane Austen lovers will revel in traversing these Dark Blue Waves, which releases May 27.
The author’s admiration for Austen’s works is evident in past and present. References flow across the storylines, centering Janet as she navigates both worlds, though she doesn’t quite fit into either. She’s a bit too reserved and bookish for her current life, and too outspoken and forward-thinking for the rigid Regency time period she tumbles into. Yet the true friendship and beguiling romance she discovers there has her pondering which era she should ultimately embrace – if she even has a choice. Jane Austen lovers will revel in traversing these Dark Blue Waves, which releases May 27.
May 3, 2022
Putting aside the highly unlikely time travel, this novel is a delight. I’ll admit that it started in a rather clunky manner so that I worried about how smoothly it would progress, but once we landed safely in the 1800s, it was an interesting and enjoyable read.
Jane makes many a misstep in her transplanted life, but it all works out for the best. It was highly entertaining to imagine a modern woman making her way in Regency society. I hope I would have made all the same choices.
I adored the Austenian details. With so much talk of corsets, I wonder if the author meant stays, though the distinction was often not made at the time and details on the length the undergarment were not discussed. Otherwise, the historical details were engrossing.
Very sweet historical romance with a fantasy finish. Thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours for my free copy. These opinions are my own.
Jane makes many a misstep in her transplanted life, but it all works out for the best. It was highly entertaining to imagine a modern woman making her way in Regency society. I hope I would have made all the same choices.
I adored the Austenian details. With so much talk of corsets, I wonder if the author meant stays, though the distinction was often not made at the time and details on the length the undergarment were not discussed. Otherwise, the historical details were engrossing.
Very sweet historical romance with a fantasy finish. Thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours for my free copy. These opinions are my own.
May 28, 2022
Have you ever wondered about travelling back in time? Kimberly Sullivan takes readers on a trip back about 200 years in Bath, England to the time of Jane Austen with the main character Janet Roberts. The detailed imagery and descriptions allowed me to transport myself to Bath, England both present day and in the 1800s. No description is missed from the details of most popular books to the architecture of the estates and even the clothing worn. Janet is a strong female character, who helps make positive changes and at times made me chuckle with her thoughts and retorts. She was a fun main character to follow! Thank you to Kimberly Sullivan, Kate Rock Book Tours and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
July 11, 2022
If you love Jane Austen and have always wondered what it would be like to live in her world, this is the book for you. When Janet, an architecture and English student from America lands a chance for a semester abroad in Bath, she has no idea a cricket ball to the head will send her spinning back in time to the period she knows so well from her studies. But can being a book expert translate into a smooth transition to a new world?
She escapes her overbearing father and the man he wants her to marry only to find friendship with Emma Huntington and her imposing older brother. Her adventures include winning his approval to stay as Emma’s companion, saving the estate from a measles outbreak, and trying to mimic Austen’s heroines by playing matchmaker to her new bestie.
A second head injury offers her a chance to return to modern life, but will she take it and can she ever finish her thesis on the manners of Austen’s world?
Highly recommended for all Austen fans. The author knows the period really well and it genuinely charming to watch a modern American girl navigate, and enjoy, the social rules and everyday life of the time.
She escapes her overbearing father and the man he wants her to marry only to find friendship with Emma Huntington and her imposing older brother. Her adventures include winning his approval to stay as Emma’s companion, saving the estate from a measles outbreak, and trying to mimic Austen’s heroines by playing matchmaker to her new bestie.
A second head injury offers her a chance to return to modern life, but will she take it and can she ever finish her thesis on the manners of Austen’s world?
Highly recommended for all Austen fans. The author knows the period really well and it genuinely charming to watch a modern American girl navigate, and enjoy, the social rules and everyday life of the time.
May 9, 2022
Thank you to Netgally and the author for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback.
DARK BLUE WAVES by Kimberly Sullivan is a time-travel women's fiction novel set in modern day and Regency era Bath, England. Ever wonder how a modern woman would fare in Regency England, the England of Jane Austen? Search no further. Ms. Sullivan has you covered.
The story centers on Janet Roberts, an architect who would rather have an academic career studying English literature. When she is admitted into a program in Bath, England where she can study Austen's works, she seizes the opportunity to escape from her unfulfilling day-to-day life. Once there, she befriends her fellow students and even gets to live in a beautiful Georgian townhome. An accident transports her back in time where she meets a kind young woman named Emma Huntington who takes Janet (now going by Jane) under her wing. Everything seems to be going smoothly until Emma's older brother, the handsome, proud, and attractive Sir Edward Huntington, shows up. He wants Janet to return to her family, as is the proper thing to do. As her stay in Regency England with the Huntingtons extends, a growing attraction to Sir Edward and to the simpler lifestyle in Regency England causes Janet to question whether she should make a life for herself in the past, or return to the present.
I devoured this book in a couple of days. It checks off so many boxes of what I like to read in a story.
One of those boxes involves a skillfully depicted main character with a transformative story arc. Check. Janet is a sympathetic character with whom I immediately connected. Her journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is inquiry about what life is like in Regency England. Where she ends up by the completion of the story is such a satisfying ending.
I have a love hate relationship with slow burn romances. I love them and I hate when the story is over. The slow burn in DARK BLUE WAVES killed me in the best possible way. The chemistry between Janet and Sir Edward is fierce and I'm here for it.
Regency England is one of my favorite historical periods, probably owing to my love of Jane Austen's works. Getting transported there along with Janet in an historically accurate way added to the enjoyment of the story. Yes, we get to see beautiful gowns, charming manners, and gorgeous architecture, but we also see some of the negative aspects of that time period. Clearly, Ms. Sullivan has done her research.
Before I wrap up, I also want to call out how much I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Emma and Amarita. It's so important to reflect the strength of supportive, understanding and caring female relationships.
DARK BLUE WAVES is a submersive trip into Regency England with a sizzling romance, well-written characters, and a main character I enjoyed cheering for. I highly recommend it.
DARK BLUE WAVES by Kimberly Sullivan is a time-travel women's fiction novel set in modern day and Regency era Bath, England. Ever wonder how a modern woman would fare in Regency England, the England of Jane Austen? Search no further. Ms. Sullivan has you covered.
The story centers on Janet Roberts, an architect who would rather have an academic career studying English literature. When she is admitted into a program in Bath, England where she can study Austen's works, she seizes the opportunity to escape from her unfulfilling day-to-day life. Once there, she befriends her fellow students and even gets to live in a beautiful Georgian townhome. An accident transports her back in time where she meets a kind young woman named Emma Huntington who takes Janet (now going by Jane) under her wing. Everything seems to be going smoothly until Emma's older brother, the handsome, proud, and attractive Sir Edward Huntington, shows up. He wants Janet to return to her family, as is the proper thing to do. As her stay in Regency England with the Huntingtons extends, a growing attraction to Sir Edward and to the simpler lifestyle in Regency England causes Janet to question whether she should make a life for herself in the past, or return to the present.
I devoured this book in a couple of days. It checks off so many boxes of what I like to read in a story.
One of those boxes involves a skillfully depicted main character with a transformative story arc. Check. Janet is a sympathetic character with whom I immediately connected. Her journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is inquiry about what life is like in Regency England. Where she ends up by the completion of the story is such a satisfying ending.
I have a love hate relationship with slow burn romances. I love them and I hate when the story is over. The slow burn in DARK BLUE WAVES killed me in the best possible way. The chemistry between Janet and Sir Edward is fierce and I'm here for it.
Regency England is one of my favorite historical periods, probably owing to my love of Jane Austen's works. Getting transported there along with Janet in an historically accurate way added to the enjoyment of the story. Yes, we get to see beautiful gowns, charming manners, and gorgeous architecture, but we also see some of the negative aspects of that time period. Clearly, Ms. Sullivan has done her research.
Before I wrap up, I also want to call out how much I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Emma and Amarita. It's so important to reflect the strength of supportive, understanding and caring female relationships.
DARK BLUE WAVES is a submersive trip into Regency England with a sizzling romance, well-written characters, and a main character I enjoyed cheering for. I highly recommend it.
June 11, 2022
Dark Blue Waves by Kimberly Sullivan
Thank you to #netgalley for a copy of this book to read.
Dark Blue Waves had me at Jane Austen. But then Janet Roberts enters, and after that I was immersed in her life. Her father’s making her choose between no money and a job at his architectural firm. He’s already picked out a husband for her and expects her to fall in line with his way of thinking. Janet loves literature. After her acceptance into a special Jane Austen program, he allows her one last summer to enjoy it. His only catch is that she will also have to work with one of his architectural clients as an intern at the same time in Bath.
As Jane enjoys a beautiful summer day on the green in Bath, an accidental hit with a cricket ball renders her unconscious. She wakes up in Jane Austen’s time in Bath, England. A kind noblewoman, Emma Huntington, takes her in. They develop a deep friendship as Janet, now Lady Jane, tries to adjust to the unexpected change in time, 200 years in the past. Emma and her stern brother, Sir Edward, allow Jane to stay with them and she is able to experience the time frame and meet some very interesting people, making notes along the way.
Even though Emma talks her brother into allowing Lady Jane to stay with them after her recovery, he lets his disapproval be known. Jane has to tread carefully. She learns what is expected of a woman during this time period, but at the same time she shows some of the advances she has in her century and helps to improve the life for the tenants and her friends. And she begins to fall in love with Sir Edward.
Will Jane ever return to her own time? What is happening in the future after she was hit by the ball? Will anyone figure out she’s not who she says she is? Will Sir Edward cast her out of the home, leaving her with nowhere to go? There are many questions as Jane works herself through time, making connections along the way. You’ll be reading until the end to find out what happens to Jane! A 5 Star story with a heart of gold.
Thank you to #netgalley for a copy of this book to read.
Dark Blue Waves had me at Jane Austen. But then Janet Roberts enters, and after that I was immersed in her life. Her father’s making her choose between no money and a job at his architectural firm. He’s already picked out a husband for her and expects her to fall in line with his way of thinking. Janet loves literature. After her acceptance into a special Jane Austen program, he allows her one last summer to enjoy it. His only catch is that she will also have to work with one of his architectural clients as an intern at the same time in Bath.
As Jane enjoys a beautiful summer day on the green in Bath, an accidental hit with a cricket ball renders her unconscious. She wakes up in Jane Austen’s time in Bath, England. A kind noblewoman, Emma Huntington, takes her in. They develop a deep friendship as Janet, now Lady Jane, tries to adjust to the unexpected change in time, 200 years in the past. Emma and her stern brother, Sir Edward, allow Jane to stay with them and she is able to experience the time frame and meet some very interesting people, making notes along the way.
Even though Emma talks her brother into allowing Lady Jane to stay with them after her recovery, he lets his disapproval be known. Jane has to tread carefully. She learns what is expected of a woman during this time period, but at the same time she shows some of the advances she has in her century and helps to improve the life for the tenants and her friends. And she begins to fall in love with Sir Edward.
Will Jane ever return to her own time? What is happening in the future after she was hit by the ball? Will anyone figure out she’s not who she says she is? Will Sir Edward cast her out of the home, leaving her with nowhere to go? There are many questions as Jane works herself through time, making connections along the way. You’ll be reading until the end to find out what happens to Jane! A 5 Star story with a heart of gold.
May 27, 2022
I love Jane Austen’s novels and dual timeline stories, so Kimberly Sullivan’s Dare Blue Waves was a natural fit for my reading list.
It’s obvious that Sullivan is an Austen fan too: I thought her mastery of Regency language and manners were perfect. Bath, Jane Austen’s home was beautifully described and depicted in both timelines, and it’s obvious Sullivan has spent a good deal of time there both in person and in research. Her characterizations of present-day Janet as an eager early twenties with deep knowledge of the era versus lost in 1813 Jane trying to untangle the intricacies of time-travel were absolutely endearing. Jane’s new friend Emma and her dashing brother Sir Edward were so deftly portrayed that Austen could have written them herself.
Then there are the dual mysteries that underpin the story; the time-travel aspect, of course, but also the grand estate and the Bath town house that are central to Janet/Jane’s journey. Would she solve the mystery of the painted ceiling? Would she be able to get back to her own time? Did she even want to after living in the slower, richer, less frantic past? All of these questions kept me reading far later than I should have several nights in a row. I definitely recommend Dark Blue Waves for fans of Austen and historical mysteries.
It’s obvious that Sullivan is an Austen fan too: I thought her mastery of Regency language and manners were perfect. Bath, Jane Austen’s home was beautifully described and depicted in both timelines, and it’s obvious Sullivan has spent a good deal of time there both in person and in research. Her characterizations of present-day Janet as an eager early twenties with deep knowledge of the era versus lost in 1813 Jane trying to untangle the intricacies of time-travel were absolutely endearing. Jane’s new friend Emma and her dashing brother Sir Edward were so deftly portrayed that Austen could have written them herself.
Then there are the dual mysteries that underpin the story; the time-travel aspect, of course, but also the grand estate and the Bath town house that are central to Janet/Jane’s journey. Would she solve the mystery of the painted ceiling? Would she be able to get back to her own time? Did she even want to after living in the slower, richer, less frantic past? All of these questions kept me reading far later than I should have several nights in a row. I definitely recommend Dark Blue Waves for fans of Austen and historical mysteries.
September 23, 2022
What a fun ride! It’s like stepping into your own Jane Austen novel. I loved how the story wrapped up. It kept me guessing the whole time.
May 10, 2022
I'd like to say thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“Janet pressed her forehead against the cool glass of the train window.” And so begins Dark Blue Waves, written by Kimberly Sullivan, and quite honestly one of the best historical romance books I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Janet Roberts is, like so many of us from the 21st century, an Austenite (A fan of Jane Austen’s work). Unexpectedly, her dreams of travelling back in time are granted through a Tiepolo painting, Apollo and Daphne. Her life is forever changed when she meets Emma Huntington, and her brother, Sir Edward. In this time-travelling romance, Janet struggles to find her place in a society so different to her own.
“…how much the world has changed for women in the future.” Make no mistake, this isn’t a Bridgerton-type regency setting. Instead, a wonderfully detailed world is brought to life through descriptive paragraphs and enriching characters. Comparisons to Austen’s works will be made, but in a positive way, as even within the book itself, certain characters are compared to notable Austen figures.
Another surprising element of this book was the overall time span of the main story, and the length relating to the development of the romance. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Sir Edward and Janet’s relationship wasn’t just ‘love at first sight’, instead involving a detailed character arc and utilising an enemy to lovers format.
This book was everything I could have dreamed of and more from a Jane Austen inspired historical regency romance. I’d even go so far as to say it was one of my favourite ever historical romances, certainly my favourite of 2022.
I would highly recommend this book to other lovers of smart and talented heroines who travel back in time, as well as Jane Austen fans and anyone looking to try something a little different.
“Janet pressed her forehead against the cool glass of the train window.” And so begins Dark Blue Waves, written by Kimberly Sullivan, and quite honestly one of the best historical romance books I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
Janet Roberts is, like so many of us from the 21st century, an Austenite (A fan of Jane Austen’s work). Unexpectedly, her dreams of travelling back in time are granted through a Tiepolo painting, Apollo and Daphne. Her life is forever changed when she meets Emma Huntington, and her brother, Sir Edward. In this time-travelling romance, Janet struggles to find her place in a society so different to her own.
“…how much the world has changed for women in the future.” Make no mistake, this isn’t a Bridgerton-type regency setting. Instead, a wonderfully detailed world is brought to life through descriptive paragraphs and enriching characters. Comparisons to Austen’s works will be made, but in a positive way, as even within the book itself, certain characters are compared to notable Austen figures.
Another surprising element of this book was the overall time span of the main story, and the length relating to the development of the romance. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Sir Edward and Janet’s relationship wasn’t just ‘love at first sight’, instead involving a detailed character arc and utilising an enemy to lovers format.
This book was everything I could have dreamed of and more from a Jane Austen inspired historical regency romance. I’d even go so far as to say it was one of my favourite ever historical romances, certainly my favourite of 2022.
I would highly recommend this book to other lovers of smart and talented heroines who travel back in time, as well as Jane Austen fans and anyone looking to try something a little different.
June 5, 2022
Special thanks to Kimberly and Kate with Kate Rock Book Tours for having me on this tour and for the review copy! If you’re a Jane Austen fan or a fan of literature from that time period, you absolutely NEED to grab this one! It is fiction but, it’s a truly wonderful story that would bring a smile to your face!
Janet Roberts dreams of a literary career but, her architect Father think it’s nonsense. He doesn’t understand her love of Jane Austen and her desire to be intertwined into the world of stories. One day she wakes up in Bath after a nasty head injury. Meeting one Emma Huntington and her brother, Sir Edward turns her world upside down.
Let me just say, beginning a large read (400+ pages), I would have begun reading earlier but, I was unaware of the page count. So, I began this book on Thursday. It’s Sunday and I just finished and it was THAT good, the writing was fantastic and made the pages fly by! The story was beautiful, hard at times because of the things Jane(t) had to go through but, the ending made it all up. Have you ever thought about time travel? Going back in time 200 years and experiencing life before modern medicine, before indoor plumbing and automobiles? This story brings it all together and has renewed my interest in finally sitting down and reading/finishing “Pride and Prejudice” from start to finish.
I absolutely LOVED this story and highly recommend; it has mystery, drama and suspense. It just flows so well and will keep your 100% invested all the way through. Five stars! Brilliant is truly a great word to describe this novel. I loved the literature woven into this story, the way the painting was the focus and the way to get Jane(t) back and forth between worlds.
Janet Roberts dreams of a literary career but, her architect Father think it’s nonsense. He doesn’t understand her love of Jane Austen and her desire to be intertwined into the world of stories. One day she wakes up in Bath after a nasty head injury. Meeting one Emma Huntington and her brother, Sir Edward turns her world upside down.
Let me just say, beginning a large read (400+ pages), I would have begun reading earlier but, I was unaware of the page count. So, I began this book on Thursday. It’s Sunday and I just finished and it was THAT good, the writing was fantastic and made the pages fly by! The story was beautiful, hard at times because of the things Jane(t) had to go through but, the ending made it all up. Have you ever thought about time travel? Going back in time 200 years and experiencing life before modern medicine, before indoor plumbing and automobiles? This story brings it all together and has renewed my interest in finally sitting down and reading/finishing “Pride and Prejudice” from start to finish.
I absolutely LOVED this story and highly recommend; it has mystery, drama and suspense. It just flows so well and will keep your 100% invested all the way through. Five stars! Brilliant is truly a great word to describe this novel. I loved the literature woven into this story, the way the painting was the focus and the way to get Jane(t) back and forth between worlds.
May 27, 2022
A must read for Jane Austen lovers! Janet is a 19th century literature student living her dream of studying in Bath in the setting of her favorite author. Rooming in a authentic manor house of that time period. She is drawn to a picture in her room that has her feeling a pull to another time. A freak accident with a cricket ball has her back in her room to recover, but when she wakes up it’s 1813. Thank goodness she knows quite a bit of that time and as luck would have it Emma who helps her has a good heart and welcomes her, Jane into her home. Of course her brother Sir Edward is not so accommodating and wants Jane gone ASAP. Janet/ Jane is terrified if she is kicked out, how will she return back to her time.
It was a slow building plot, the first half was to me overdone with all the Jane Austen references. I know it’s a classic but was getting boring for me. But I am so glad I stuck with it, the second half was really about Janet/ Jane. A real page turner…… if you are a huge fan of Jane Austen you will love it. For the time traveler, historical fiction lovers hang in there, I did really enjoyed that part. I give it 3.5 stars and rounded it up. Thank you NetGalley for this eARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story. #NetGalley #DarkBlueWaves
It was a slow building plot, the first half was to me overdone with all the Jane Austen references. I know it’s a classic but was getting boring for me. But I am so glad I stuck with it, the second half was really about Janet/ Jane. A real page turner…… if you are a huge fan of Jane Austen you will love it. For the time traveler, historical fiction lovers hang in there, I did really enjoyed that part. I give it 3.5 stars and rounded it up. Thank you NetGalley for this eARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story. #NetGalley #DarkBlueWaves
June 1, 2022
Dark Blue Waves by Kimberly Sullivan was a delightfully charming story that combined several of my favorite things - Jane Austen, history, romance, mystery, and time travel! I instantly liked Janet/Jane and couldn’t help rooting for her! Reading about a modern day woman navigating life during the Regency era was fascinating, and I found the idea of leading a slower paced life very appealing! The richly detailed descriptions of the clothing, literature, art, architecture, and scenery made me feel like I was in Bath, England right along with Jane, Emma, and Sir Edward. I adored sweet-natured Emma and the friendship Jane formed with her, and I also enjoyed the slow burn romance between Jane and Sir Edward! It was a lovely escape into the world of Jane Austen with a highly satisfying ending!
*Thank you to the author and Kate Rock Book Tours for my gifted eARC and the opportunity to read and review this book! All opinions are my own.
*Thank you to the author and Kate Rock Book Tours for my gifted eARC and the opportunity to read and review this book! All opinions are my own.
June 3, 2022
This was such a fun read and I loved that the story was set in two time periods, the 19th century and present time (21st century). This time travel romance was very descriptive and I could imagine myself in that time period.
Our main character Janet was a strong and fun female lead. It was so much fun to read her thoughts and see how Janet’s journey progresses in both time periods. I loved the transformation Janet’s character undergoes as a result of her having been transported to a time that is so different from the present.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sullivan’s descriptions, the language used to distinguish between the two time periods, and the overall perspective both positive and negative of both of the time periods.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Our main character Janet was a strong and fun female lead. It was so much fun to read her thoughts and see how Janet’s journey progresses in both time periods. I loved the transformation Janet’s character undergoes as a result of her having been transported to a time that is so different from the present.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sullivan’s descriptions, the language used to distinguish between the two time periods, and the overall perspective both positive and negative of both of the time periods.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 12, 2022
Perfect for fans of Outlander of The Invisible Life of Addie Larue - Dark Blue Waves by Kimberly Sullivan checked off quite a few of my favorite boxes.
Historical Fiction - ✔️ Dual Timelines - ✔️ Romance - ✔️
The time travel portion wasn't my favorite but gave the storyline a unique spin. Which I always appreciate. I love that Janet/Jane were in the same voice. It made it easier to keep up with. I also liked reading how a modern-day woman was resourceful in learning to navigate life during the Regency era based on her love of it. I think the idea of leading a slower-paced life speaks to us all here and there.
I was rooting for Janet and her relationships throughout the book. And I loved how the author summed everything up in the end.
Historical Fiction - ✔️ Dual Timelines - ✔️ Romance - ✔️
The time travel portion wasn't my favorite but gave the storyline a unique spin. Which I always appreciate. I love that Janet/Jane were in the same voice. It made it easier to keep up with. I also liked reading how a modern-day woman was resourceful in learning to navigate life during the Regency era based on her love of it. I think the idea of leading a slower-paced life speaks to us all here and there.
I was rooting for Janet and her relationships throughout the book. And I loved how the author summed everything up in the end.
November 7, 2022
I'm speechless!! This book was just so perfect, from the plot, to the characters and the writing style, everything was done so well.
The concept of time travel here wasn't done focusing on the scientific side, which I really liked because I wanted a good fiction, not physics theories.
The mix between a 21st century mentality in a 19th century world was just *chief's kiss*, as a big fan of historical fiction, especially in this era, it was truly delightful to read about living there through the eyes of someone from my time😅
The writing style was really good, the author made words and sentences flow in such a smooth way that kept me engrossed through out the read.
Simply one of the best books this year.
* I received an ARC of this book through netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review *
The concept of time travel here wasn't done focusing on the scientific side, which I really liked because I wanted a good fiction, not physics theories.
The mix between a 21st century mentality in a 19th century world was just *chief's kiss*, as a big fan of historical fiction, especially in this era, it was truly delightful to read about living there through the eyes of someone from my time😅
The writing style was really good, the author made words and sentences flow in such a smooth way that kept me engrossed through out the read.
Simply one of the best books this year.
* I received an ARC of this book through netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review *
June 26, 2022
This book is a love letter to Jane Austen in a new, refreshing and authentic way. There's time travel, regency romance, and lots of great character and world-building. A modern women is thrown back into the times of Jane Austen, making her realize that wanting to be part of this time and actually living in it are entirely two different things. I thoroughly enjoyed all the art/artists and literature references featured in this book. It was a perfect historical fiction/romance with enough conflict to keep the reader entertained throughout.
Who doesn't want their own Mr. Darcy? Sign me up! (no offense to my husband) If you are a fan of Jane Austen, this is a definite read for you!
Who doesn't want their own Mr. Darcy? Sign me up! (no offense to my husband) If you are a fan of Jane Austen, this is a definite read for you!
April 23, 2022
DARK BLUE WAVES is one of those lovely books with something for everyone and in just the right amounts to please most readers. The tale is set in Bath, England and makes copious reference to Jane Austen, but not so much that readers only broadly familiar with her work will feel lost. There is time travel and a good resolution but a follow-up novel with the same characters would be quite welcome. There is mystery and requisite despicable characters that move the plot forward. Author Kimberly Sullivan creates a sense of place in multiple times that works well. The book is fun and engaging. I received my copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
July 27, 2022
Kimberly Sullivan brings two worlds to life in this vivid portrait of a woman traveling between Jane Austen’s England and its twenty-first century remnants. With its sensitive portrayal of social relations, haunting artworks, and poetic references, Dark Blue Waves evokes the different pace of daily existence in times past. This is a page turner from start to finish with a sympathetic heroine facing an unusual and dramatic choice.
April 3, 2022
Great book! I love Jane Austen and this is the second book that I read about the time travel to the "historic romance" times. Such books are always fun to read and I wish there were more of them. This one also had some good twists. I highly recommend it.
There were only a few things that annoyed me but they are very personal. I do not mind reading about the gentry but I am getting bothered reading about wealthy and extremely good looking people in modern times. Janet is not just extremely wealthy (with the inheritance, Harvard degree and a prestigious and expensive summer semester in England), but also very beautiful, and despite very young age extremely talented in paintings, architecture, has in-depth knowledge of classics, etc. etc. etc. What cannot she do? And because she is such a superwoman at age 24, of course she meets an extremely handsome and extremely wealthy and titled prince, I mean, sir. Why cannot we read about more realistic people and realistic upbringings? Because these types of books just prove that the elite has everything and for the rest of us of the humanity, we stand no chance.
Thanks to Netgalley for the free copy in exchange of an honest review.
There were only a few things that annoyed me but they are very personal. I do not mind reading about the gentry but I am getting bothered reading about wealthy and extremely good looking people in modern times. Janet is not just extremely wealthy (with the inheritance, Harvard degree and a prestigious and expensive summer semester in England), but also very beautiful, and despite very young age extremely talented in paintings, architecture, has in-depth knowledge of classics, etc. etc. etc. What cannot she do? And because she is such a superwoman at age 24, of course she meets an extremely handsome and extremely wealthy and titled prince, I mean, sir. Why cannot we read about more realistic people and realistic upbringings? Because these types of books just prove that the elite has everything and for the rest of us of the humanity, we stand no chance.
Thanks to Netgalley for the free copy in exchange of an honest review.
June 4, 2022
Engaging!
Wow! What a wonderful ride! I was completely captivated by this read and these characters. I was drawn in IMMEDIATELY and hooked into these pages.
Kimberly Sullivan delivers a charming, wonderful ESCAPE that has you traveling through time.
Dark Blue Waves was a true delight to read!! It has a little something for everyone. Don’t miss out.
Wow! What a wonderful ride! I was completely captivated by this read and these characters. I was drawn in IMMEDIATELY and hooked into these pages.
Kimberly Sullivan delivers a charming, wonderful ESCAPE that has you traveling through time.
Dark Blue Waves was a true delight to read!! It has a little something for everyone. Don’t miss out.
July 21, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this book but I sure didn't expect it to be so gripping, thrilling, romantic, and beautiful. It's a wonderful take on the historic romance. I loved how detailed the description was about the 18th century. A definite 5 star. Worth reading.
July 22, 2022
Very slow start, but great read. It is a book you can read multiple times. The book is written with so may layers, you could read it again and again to see how things align.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
October 8, 2024
excellent read
Just finished this intriguing story and am looking forward to the sequel. Well-written, characters to invest in (or dislike as the case may be), interesting background setting, it kept my interest and satisfied my emotions. An excellent read.
Just finished this intriguing story and am looking forward to the sequel. Well-written, characters to invest in (or dislike as the case may be), interesting background setting, it kept my interest and satisfied my emotions. An excellent read.
June 17, 2022
The premise had me! Time travel to Regency England?! Yes, please! Jane Austen as the theme?! Hooray!
The first few chapters immerse the reader in Janet's modern day life. We learn how unappreciated she is and how she wishes she had control of her destiny. I truly wanted to see what came next.... to be wisked away on an adventure.
For me, this book really captivates once we get to the Regency era. I loved the scene descriptions, the clothing worn and how Janet, now Jane, stuck out. I do wish that we'd had more of a language change, there's barely a distinction between modern life and Regency. I wanted more interaction at the conclusion between Janet and Edward.
The conclusion with Amrita was brilliant! All the details and carefully planned events unfolding to surprises the reader was phenomenal.
The first few chapters immerse the reader in Janet's modern day life. We learn how unappreciated she is and how she wishes she had control of her destiny. I truly wanted to see what came next.... to be wisked away on an adventure.
For me, this book really captivates once we get to the Regency era. I loved the scene descriptions, the clothing worn and how Janet, now Jane, stuck out. I do wish that we'd had more of a language change, there's barely a distinction between modern life and Regency. I wanted more interaction at the conclusion between Janet and Edward.
The conclusion with Amrita was brilliant! All the details and carefully planned events unfolding to surprises the reader was phenomenal.
January 6, 2024
Very much enjoyed reading liked the jump between time periods, was a good read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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