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Rutledge Family #1
Beauty Like the Night
Beauty is like the night, fleeting and hard to hold, a truth the forbidding Lord Treyhern is about to discover. Let the opulence of Liz Carlyle's prose immerse you in the beauty of England while plunging you into the midst of the outrageous Rutledge family, where scandal is served up like a soup course and dangerous secrets are everywhere. The daughter of London's wickedest widow, Helene de Severs has struggled to overcome her heritage. Renowned within Europe's emerging psychiatric field, Helene has a gift for healing children. When fate sends her back to England, the country she left in disgrace, Helene is confident she has learned to govern her own reckless emotions. Ruthlessly, Treyhern has dragged his notorious family from the brink of ruin. But a disastrous marriage has left him with a traumatized child, and his rebellious brother is just one step ahead of the bailiffs. When his dissolute father drops dead while debauching the governess, Treyhern's infamous temper is truly tested. But the forceful earl means to straighten everyone out -- as soon as he has hired a reputable governess. Yet the moment she steps from his carriage, Treyhern's cold reserve is melted by a rush of desire he had long thought dead. With her elegant clothing and mountain of luggage, the woman is not who he expected. Or is she? Sometimes the workings of the mind are as dangerous as those of the heart. And soon, danger is truly everywhere...
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2000
109 people are currently reading
1437 people want to read
About the author
Liz Carlyle
46 books847 followersDear Readers,
The awful truth about novelists is that we are mostly dull, introverted homebodies who only write in order to live our fantasies vicariously. I came to writing rather late in life, and I’m still amazed I can get paid for doing something I love, and that I get to stay home while I do it.
My favorite comedian Steve Martin once said, "I believe entertainment can aspire to be art, and can become art. But if you set out to make art, you’re an idiot." I have never tried to create art, but I do try to tell one heck of a good story. Yes, I try to write with a hot iron, while the heat of the story is in me. And I try, always, to entertain my readers.
Regards,
Liz
The awful truth about novelists is that we are mostly dull, introverted homebodies who only write in order to live our fantasies vicariously. I came to writing rather late in life, and I’m still amazed I can get paid for doing something I love, and that I get to stay home while I do it.
My favorite comedian Steve Martin once said, "I believe entertainment can aspire to be art, and can become art. But if you set out to make art, you’re an idiot." I have never tried to create art, but I do try to tell one heck of a good story. Yes, I try to write with a hot iron, while the heat of the story is in me. And I try, always, to entertain my readers.
Regards,
Liz
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
December 29, 2024
Can we pause just a moment to admire the nice a—uh, cover of this book?
This may be my favorite second-chance romance I’ve ever read. Sure, maybe I wanted to stick Cam with a cattle prod because he kept trying to figure out how he could be both dutiful and abandoned at the same time and was tying himself in knots in the attempt. And then, yes, I wanted to turn that cattle prod on Helene for trying to convince herself her chance with the only man she’d ever loved had come and gone, even as he handed her his heart on a silver platter (which didn’t make sense. That, along with a few other minor inconsistencies and the annoying passages written from the child’s point-of-view, dropped the rating a star.)
Oooh, great ending though. Cam sums it up nicely when he says:
“I’m just too bloody tired to argue over something which was writ upon our hearts long ago. Our only mistake was to doubt one another. Do not doubt me now, Helene. Whatever new challenges life may fling at us—and I daresay there are going to be a few—we will go forward together.
Well-written, well-planned, detailed, and entertaining story.
This may be my favorite second-chance romance I’ve ever read. Sure, maybe I wanted to stick Cam with a cattle prod because he kept trying to figure out how he could be both dutiful and abandoned at the same time and was tying himself in knots in the attempt. And then, yes, I wanted to turn that cattle prod on Helene for trying to convince herself her chance with the only man she’d ever loved had come and gone, even as he handed her his heart on a silver platter (which didn’t make sense. That, along with a few other minor inconsistencies and the annoying passages written from the child’s point-of-view, dropped the rating a star.)
Oooh, great ending though. Cam sums it up nicely when he says:
“I’m just too bloody tired to argue over something which was writ upon our hearts long ago. Our only mistake was to doubt one another. Do not doubt me now, Helene. Whatever new challenges life may fling at us—and I daresay there are going to be a few—we will go forward together.
Well-written, well-planned, detailed, and entertaining story.
October 11, 2008
Beauty Like the Night is a beautifully written love story with the added bonus of a mystery. I believe that most, if not all, of Liz Carlyle's books combine these two elements, and she does a wonderful job with both. I really enjoy romances in which the hero and heroine either begin as friends or develop a friendship before marrying. In my opinion, Ms. Carlyle is masterful at writing these friendships and bringing to the story a sense of warmth and deep intimacy that goes far beyond the physical realm. She also writes a good mystery. If I spend most of the story trying to solve the mystery and figure out who the villain is, while suspecting characters who end up being innocent, then I know the author did a good job. Such was the case with Beauty Like the Night. The romance was truly romantic, because Cam and Helene had been the best of friends and had experienced the beauty of young love before being cruelly torn apart. They then had a second chance to rekindle both their friendship and their love. The mystery was truly mysterious, because I did suspect other characters besides the real villain. Also, though different scenarios came to mind, I never fully figured out what Ariane had seen that caused her to stop talking until it was revealed in the story. Cam's brother, Bentley's psychological complexities added additional intrigue to the story as I tried to figure out what drives him to do some of the things that he does.
Aside from history, one of my main interests is psychology. I was fascinated to find a historical novel that made use of psychology. Until reading this book, I hadn't even realized that psychological treatments similar to what we use in modern times were even practiced in that era. Ms. Carlyle even made mention of a real historical figure in this fledgling field, Philippe Pinel, along with some factual information on his practice. I was very impressed with her use of such an unusual topic in a historical romance, and the care that she seems to have taken in researching it. Ms. Carlyle has a truly intelligent writing style that is borne out by the fact that I was able to learn something new from reading her work. I have seen a few reviewers who were critical of the psychology element as being anachronistic, but my own research bears out it's accuracy.
The characters in Beauty Like the Night are incredibly well written from the hero and heroine to the secondary characters. Camden Rutledge just made my all-time favorite romantic heroes list. On the outside he may be quiet and serious, but on the inside he has the heart of a poet and burns with passion. He is thoroughly masculine without being arrogant or self-centered. Cam is loyal and faithful even when those around him are not, and he is a hard worker who takes his responsibilities very seriously. His undying devotion to his daughter and his belief that the so-called experts are wrong about her condition only make him more appealing. Even his cat, Boadicea, adores him, and he talks to her often. I think that Ms. Carlyle's use of children and pets always brings great warmth to her characters and stories. Helene was a wonderful heroine, the perfect foil for Cam's reserved nature. As a teenager she was a nearly reckless free-spirit, but even in her more mature adult form she still exhibits that lightheartedness accompanied by a newfound strength of character. I loved that she is strong and worldly enough to so deftly handle men who make unwanted advances, and later showed her spunk and spirit against the villain. She also impressed me as a woman who had made a career for herself in a society where there were few options for women. I really appreciate Ms. Carlyle writing slightly older heroines who have been able to find a niche for themselves outside of marriage or the usual historically limited professions for women.
Some key secondary characters were surprisingly well fleshed out. Among them was Cam's daughter Ariane, who was an incredibly intelligent and brave little girl. The author does a wonderful job of letting the reader inside her thoughts and feelings even when she cannot speak, and keeping her insights and actions on an age-appropriate level. Reader's are given an introduction to Cam's sister, Catherine, who is light, breezy and full of life, while obviously being strong and capable. She also seems to go against the female stereotype of her time, being more comfortable on horseback or handling estate duties than doing interior decorating. In my opinion though, the most intriguing and well written of the secondary characters is Cam's brother, Bentley. Underneath his alternating facades of the seductive charmer and the rebellious, indifferent rakehell is a young man full of fascinating complexities. I was truly impressed that the author was able to write a supporting male character with such depth who didn't overshadow Cam. It is obvious that Bentley's story is far from over, and readers are given a glimpse of the hero he will eventually become.
Liz Carlyle's books contain many interconnected characters, but she considers her stories to be more of a “community of characters” than a series. That said, there are two characters from Beauty Like the Night who continue on to future books. Catherine Rutledge Wodeway becomes the heroine of her own story in No True Gentleman. Likewise, Bentley Rutledge becomes the hero of his own story in The Devil You Know, but prior to that is also seen in A Woman of Virtue and No True Gentleman, both of which will likely add more layers to his already complex character. Beauty Like the Night was a wonderful book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I would highly recommend it, and it has definitely earned a place on my keeper shelf. Ms. Carlyle is a very talented author, and I am looking forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Note: While none of Ms. Carlyle's earlier books seem to be officially considered a series and each seems to stand reasonably well on it's own story-wise, I would caution that reading her later books first may give away spoilers to her earlier books. Such was the case when I skipped one book and was left wishing that I had read it first. My suggestion for readers like myself who don't like any spoilers would be to begin with Ms. Carlyle's first book, My False Heart, and continue reading them in the chronological order in which she wrote them. It is also my opinion that the reading experience would be greatly enhanced by doing this, because Ms. Carlyle's character web is so complex. The entire backlist, in order, can be found on her website. For readers who aren't as particular about spoilers and prefer to read in smaller sets, Ms. Carlyle's books can also be grouped by families. Beauty Like the Night would be the first book in the Rutledge Family group.
Aside from history, one of my main interests is psychology. I was fascinated to find a historical novel that made use of psychology. Until reading this book, I hadn't even realized that psychological treatments similar to what we use in modern times were even practiced in that era. Ms. Carlyle even made mention of a real historical figure in this fledgling field, Philippe Pinel, along with some factual information on his practice. I was very impressed with her use of such an unusual topic in a historical romance, and the care that she seems to have taken in researching it. Ms. Carlyle has a truly intelligent writing style that is borne out by the fact that I was able to learn something new from reading her work. I have seen a few reviewers who were critical of the psychology element as being anachronistic, but my own research bears out it's accuracy.
The characters in Beauty Like the Night are incredibly well written from the hero and heroine to the secondary characters. Camden Rutledge just made my all-time favorite romantic heroes list. On the outside he may be quiet and serious, but on the inside he has the heart of a poet and burns with passion. He is thoroughly masculine without being arrogant or self-centered. Cam is loyal and faithful even when those around him are not, and he is a hard worker who takes his responsibilities very seriously. His undying devotion to his daughter and his belief that the so-called experts are wrong about her condition only make him more appealing. Even his cat, Boadicea, adores him, and he talks to her often. I think that Ms. Carlyle's use of children and pets always brings great warmth to her characters and stories. Helene was a wonderful heroine, the perfect foil for Cam's reserved nature. As a teenager she was a nearly reckless free-spirit, but even in her more mature adult form she still exhibits that lightheartedness accompanied by a newfound strength of character. I loved that she is strong and worldly enough to so deftly handle men who make unwanted advances, and later showed her spunk and spirit against the villain. She also impressed me as a woman who had made a career for herself in a society where there were few options for women. I really appreciate Ms. Carlyle writing slightly older heroines who have been able to find a niche for themselves outside of marriage or the usual historically limited professions for women.
Some key secondary characters were surprisingly well fleshed out. Among them was Cam's daughter Ariane, who was an incredibly intelligent and brave little girl. The author does a wonderful job of letting the reader inside her thoughts and feelings even when she cannot speak, and keeping her insights and actions on an age-appropriate level. Reader's are given an introduction to Cam's sister, Catherine, who is light, breezy and full of life, while obviously being strong and capable. She also seems to go against the female stereotype of her time, being more comfortable on horseback or handling estate duties than doing interior decorating. In my opinion though, the most intriguing and well written of the secondary characters is Cam's brother, Bentley. Underneath his alternating facades of the seductive charmer and the rebellious, indifferent rakehell is a young man full of fascinating complexities. I was truly impressed that the author was able to write a supporting male character with such depth who didn't overshadow Cam. It is obvious that Bentley's story is far from over, and readers are given a glimpse of the hero he will eventually become.
Liz Carlyle's books contain many interconnected characters, but she considers her stories to be more of a “community of characters” than a series. That said, there are two characters from Beauty Like the Night who continue on to future books. Catherine Rutledge Wodeway becomes the heroine of her own story in No True Gentleman. Likewise, Bentley Rutledge becomes the hero of his own story in The Devil You Know, but prior to that is also seen in A Woman of Virtue and No True Gentleman, both of which will likely add more layers to his already complex character. Beauty Like the Night was a wonderful book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I would highly recommend it, and it has definitely earned a place on my keeper shelf. Ms. Carlyle is a very talented author, and I am looking forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Note: While none of Ms. Carlyle's earlier books seem to be officially considered a series and each seems to stand reasonably well on it's own story-wise, I would caution that reading her later books first may give away spoilers to her earlier books. Such was the case when I skipped one book and was left wishing that I had read it first. My suggestion for readers like myself who don't like any spoilers would be to begin with Ms. Carlyle's first book, My False Heart, and continue reading them in the chronological order in which she wrote them. It is also my opinion that the reading experience would be greatly enhanced by doing this, because Ms. Carlyle's character web is so complex. The entire backlist, in order, can be found on her website. For readers who aren't as particular about spoilers and prefer to read in smaller sets, Ms. Carlyle's books can also be grouped by families. Beauty Like the Night would be the first book in the Rutledge Family group.
February 22, 2016
This book had potentials. Really, I quite liked it in the beginning. I thought the writing rather sophisticated too. But as the story went on, there was no real story, no real conflicts, just 2 people who were kept separated because the writer needed to cough up a story. And it is over 400 pages long. I was wondering just how long we could read about a couple fretting about lost love when they really no longer had any honest reasons to not be together?
I have read that the second book in the series is better, I would probably give Liz Carlyle another try when I recover from this traumatic experience.
I have read that the second book in the series is better, I would probably give Liz Carlyle another try when I recover from this traumatic experience.
October 23, 2011
I'd only read a couple of Liz Carlyle books before, namely A Deal with the Devil and My False Heart, which were both absolutely fantastic. I'm amazed I've taken so long to get back to this author. She REALLY is a very good writer. She is like a fine wine, she goes down very smoothly. Her stories are interesting and very enjoyable. I love her writing style and her love scenes are very hot.
I am basically using this review for her three Rutledge family books, Beauty Like the Night, No True Gentleman and The Devil You Know. All three books were very enjoyable to read. I loved all the heros and, just as importantly, I loved the heroines she's matched them up with. They are just how I like them, strong, smart women who don't do silly things. I also love that they are honest and don't play love games - hate heroines who do.
The first book in the series, Beauty Like the Night, I enjoyed right from the start. I loved the trope of the heroine coming to help a distraught child, and I was surprised how much I fell for the child, being a very strong secondary character. I think this was helped along by some of the child's thoughts being written into the book so I understood what she was about, and really, I just fell in love with her. She was so smart and interesting and so needed help.
The second book No True Gentleman was a little slower to start, but knowing what a talented writer Liz Carlyle is, I stuck with it and before long I was hooked. The hero was an interesting one, again, and the heroine strong, smart and honest. Love that. There was a page in the book I especially loved, when Ariane, the child in Beauty Like the Night, wrote a letter to the heroine. I couldn't help but laugh.
The third, The Devil You Know, was the book I most wanted to read and got me interested in the whole three in the series. I decided if it were to be a great book, I needed to read the other two first so I had the full background to the story. I was right to do that, as I found three really good books and got the full impact of the third. As usual the hero and heroine are just fabulous. I thought I guessed the history behind Bentley and I was right (although the who didn't occur to me until right before it was revealed). He most assuredly was a wounded hero in the truest sense and I really felt for him. Such a wonderful hero and his book lived up to what I'd hoped.
If you are going to read any of these books, I highly recommend you read all three in order. You will get the most out of them, and why wouldn't you want that? Three really wonderful books back to back, so hard to find!
The one thing all three books in common was the hero loved the heroine from the start and fought it mightily ... and lost, just as they should.
I must go and find my next set of books by this really talented author.
I am basically using this review for her three Rutledge family books, Beauty Like the Night, No True Gentleman and The Devil You Know. All three books were very enjoyable to read. I loved all the heros and, just as importantly, I loved the heroines she's matched them up with. They are just how I like them, strong, smart women who don't do silly things. I also love that they are honest and don't play love games - hate heroines who do.
The first book in the series, Beauty Like the Night, I enjoyed right from the start. I loved the trope of the heroine coming to help a distraught child, and I was surprised how much I fell for the child, being a very strong secondary character. I think this was helped along by some of the child's thoughts being written into the book so I understood what she was about, and really, I just fell in love with her. She was so smart and interesting and so needed help.
The second book No True Gentleman was a little slower to start, but knowing what a talented writer Liz Carlyle is, I stuck with it and before long I was hooked. The hero was an interesting one, again, and the heroine strong, smart and honest. Love that. There was a page in the book I especially loved, when Ariane, the child in Beauty Like the Night, wrote a letter to the heroine. I couldn't help but laugh.
The third, The Devil You Know, was the book I most wanted to read and got me interested in the whole three in the series. I decided if it were to be a great book, I needed to read the other two first so I had the full background to the story. I was right to do that, as I found three really good books and got the full impact of the third. As usual the hero and heroine are just fabulous. I thought I guessed the history behind Bentley and I was right (although the who didn't occur to me until right before it was revealed). He most assuredly was a wounded hero in the truest sense and I really felt for him. Such a wonderful hero and his book lived up to what I'd hoped.
If you are going to read any of these books, I highly recommend you read all three in order. You will get the most out of them, and why wouldn't you want that? Three really wonderful books back to back, so hard to find!
The one thing all three books in common was the hero loved the heroine from the start and fought it mightily ... and lost, just as they should.
I must go and find my next set of books by this really talented author.
December 19, 2024
3.5 stars. A reread after some years, and I had actually forgotten whodunnit, although I had a fair idea. I enjoyed Ms Carlyle's fine writing as usual. This one however, was IMO not quite as good as some of her other books. It was too slow-burn for me, and it took too long for Cam and Helene to come to their senses and admit their love for each other.
The dramatic ending section when the baddie revealed themselves was done well, and was quite gripping. Along the way however, I'm sad to say the book dragged a little at times for me. Cam was a little too emotional and intense, although Helene's calm good sense and practicality were a good balance for him.
I did like the background the book gave for the young Bentham Rutledge, Cam's brother, who gets his own book later, (The Devil You Know). We also met Cam's sister Catherine (from No True Gentleman), when she was younger and still married to Will. I do like series with related characters of whom we get glimpses and tidbits in other books like this. But second chance isn't usually amongst my preferred tropes, and that was the case with this book too. So although I enjoyed it overall, it's not a fav by this author.
The dramatic ending section when the baddie revealed themselves was done well, and was quite gripping. Along the way however, I'm sad to say the book dragged a little at times for me. Cam was a little too emotional and intense, although Helene's calm good sense and practicality were a good balance for him.
I did like the background the book gave for the young Bentham Rutledge, Cam's brother, who gets his own book later, (The Devil You Know). We also met Cam's sister Catherine (from No True Gentleman), when she was younger and still married to Will. I do like series with related characters of whom we get glimpses and tidbits in other books like this. But second chance isn't usually amongst my preferred tropes, and that was the case with this book too. So although I enjoyed it overall, it's not a fav by this author.
March 3, 2022
Re-read, first time i put it 5 stars, now, its 4 stars for me.
Not safe
Hero not celibate during long time
Virgin heroine, but she was strong
Some drama
Some adventure
Not safe
Hero not celibate during long time
Virgin heroine, but she was strong
Some drama
Some adventure
March 20, 2016
First off, Cam is completely without worth. He blames Helene for him wanting her, and blames her for other men wanting her, and blames her for being beautiful, and blames her and blames her and blames her. A couple times he thinks, "Hey, I'm being irrational," but then the language of the narrative basically keeps blaming her. He's also obsessed with not being his father, and being reliable, and being god knows what else, so he comes across as stiff. Other books have done this better, because he's just unlikable.
Also, he rapes Helene. I'm sorry, I can't view that scene as anything other than rape. So that brought him down from unlikable to downright irredeemable.
The side plot was a little time consuming and ridiculous, but it was better than reading about Cam whine about beautiful and tempting Helene was, despite the fact she didn't try to tempt anyone and turned everyone down, and how much Cam thought Helene was a whore with absolutely no proof other than "she's beautiful and therefore she must want the attention she gets," with no proof she actually does. (Also, we're essentially told in Helene's point of view that she doesn't).
So this gets one star because the last thing I want to read about is a man who supposedly cares while being a complete asshole to the woman he supposedly loves.
Also, he rapes Helene. I'm sorry, I can't view that scene as anything other than rape. So that brought him down from unlikable to downright irredeemable.
The side plot was a little time consuming and ridiculous, but it was better than reading about Cam whine about beautiful and tempting Helene was, despite the fact she didn't try to tempt anyone and turned everyone down, and how much Cam thought Helene was a whore with absolutely no proof other than "she's beautiful and therefore she must want the attention she gets," with no proof she actually does. (Also, we're essentially told in Helene's point of view that she doesn't).
So this gets one star because the last thing I want to read about is a man who supposedly cares while being a complete asshole to the woman he supposedly loves.
May 30, 2011
Okay but I didn't really care for the she's an authority on governessing difficult children in conjunction with the element in which they are old lovers. So it didn't really get off the ground for me. Also the bad guy was apparent from his first words on stage which takes the suspense out of any of the mystery plot. I might try another of this author to give her a proper try.
July 22, 2024
read this series backwards, Camden and Helene still played out well. But I would have a better feel for Bentley had I read this one first. Page turning exciting read, poetic setting in cotswold, flesh and blood multidimensional characters. Some repetitive themes that dragged on too long i.e. marrying beneath your station and always loved you but it never occurred to me until it was almost too late. almost too late for me to care, Cam😒 I was so flippin annoyed that Helene was made to be a 27 yr old ————, uhhgggg. Other than that plot was good. Little girl A. inner monologue was cute. Sexy brothers vibe. suspense at end was enough to distract me from the stoopid parts.
December 28, 2014
A book full of untoward advances, sexual harassment of the household staff, and two extremely confused adults who never made an effort to seek each other out, yet now believe they were meant to be together. To top it all off, the hero asks the heroine to be his mistress, because that's all he believes she's worth. I'm sorry, but love is incomplete without respect, and the hero clearly does not respect the heroine.
January 2, 2016
This book needed a serious edit.
Granted I'm not the world's most enamoured romance reader, but I do understand the enjoyment of, and possible catharsis in, reading about the anguish of do-I-love-this-person or not. But this book could probably have been cut by a quarter (ok, maybe a fifth) and it would have been a much pacier read. Still keep the angst but lose all of the boring wallowing, and repetition.
Because there was indeed an interesting enough story here, revolving around two people struggling out from under the burden of difficult parents order to make good lives for themselves. There are other characters in the background being variously nefarious or sad or mischievous, and a couple of twists that were genuine twists and made the plot itself quite pleasing. Except for the repetitious angst.
The other thing that really annoyed me was the blaming of the woman for the man's desire. Seriously that is not ever cool. He does seem to recognise eventually that it's not actually her fault that he feels this desire, but the language of the book doesn't recognise that. Describing a woman as sinfully beautiful is never, ever warranted.
Also, forcing someone to kiss you is gross.
Granted I'm not the world's most enamoured romance reader, but I do understand the enjoyment of, and possible catharsis in, reading about the anguish of do-I-love-this-person or not. But this book could probably have been cut by a quarter (ok, maybe a fifth) and it would have been a much pacier read. Still keep the angst but lose all of the boring wallowing, and repetition.
Because there was indeed an interesting enough story here, revolving around two people struggling out from under the burden of difficult parents order to make good lives for themselves. There are other characters in the background being variously nefarious or sad or mischievous, and a couple of twists that were genuine twists and made the plot itself quite pleasing. Except for the repetitious angst.
The other thing that really annoyed me was the blaming of the woman for the man's desire. Seriously that is not ever cool. He does seem to recognise eventually that it's not actually her fault that he feels this desire, but the language of the book doesn't recognise that. Describing a woman as sinfully beautiful is never, ever warranted.
Also, forcing someone to kiss you is gross.
September 8, 2009
The Devil you Know being one of my all time favorite romantic historicals, I was curios about 'Hell-Bent' Bentley's older brother, Cam and how he and Helene got together.
Although not nearly as sensual as his younger brother's novel (it makes sense), Arianne's problem was what intrigued me most. The romance was alright, sort of a Notebook story of young lovers separated because of their parents (in this case BOTH their parents) and Cam having written Helene letters for 2 yrs which she never received.
I must say though, their first 'actual' sexual encounter towards the end of the novel bordered on rape, again, it's debatable but that's how it seemed to me. Cam was a jerk for assuming that Helene was just like her mother (ie. a whore) and she was being a cocktease on purpose and since they both want each other they should just get it over with. Surprise surprise, her virtue was still in tact and jerk realizes he has always loved her and they will, must, get married ASAP.
On the whole it was a pretty good read, not Carlyle's best but still a quality novel.
Although not nearly as sensual as his younger brother's novel (it makes sense), Arianne's problem was what intrigued me most. The romance was alright, sort of a Notebook story of young lovers separated because of their parents (in this case BOTH their parents) and Cam having written Helene letters for 2 yrs which she never received.
I must say though, their first 'actual' sexual encounter towards the end of the novel bordered on rape, again, it's debatable but that's how it seemed to me. Cam was a jerk for assuming that Helene was just like her mother (ie. a whore) and she was being a cocktease on purpose and since they both want each other they should just get it over with. Surprise surprise, her virtue was still in tact and jerk realizes he has always loved her and they will, must, get married ASAP.
On the whole it was a pretty good read, not Carlyle's best but still a quality novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2012
5 stars WOW!
LOVED IT!! This book was a page turner. Ms. Carlyle is truly a gifted writer.
LOVED IT!! This book was a page turner. Ms. Carlyle is truly a gifted writer.
October 6, 2013
My take, Carlyle took the plot of every book she ever read, put them in a hat, drew out 12 or so, and wrote this book.
September 28, 2017
I only finished it because I wanted to see if the little girl got better. But the main characters were boring and pretty dumb. Plus it was also a bit tedious to hear so often he was overcome with lust for her without any really compelling reason.
July 28, 2011
liz carlyle, salah 1 pengarang yg sekarang baru ku gila2i tp gitu baca terjemahan OT ini langsung mlempem semangatku.
tapi yah setidaknya yg ini masih lebih baik dibandingkan dengan tina gerow.
bercerita tteg helene de severs, kembali ke inggris setelah bertahun2 hidup diluar negeri & mempunyai keahlian dengan anak2.
kembali ke inggris helene mendapat pekerjaan membantu putri seorg earl. helene kaget karna ternyata earl tsb adl camden, teman sepermainannya sejak kecil jg cinta pertamanya. jika camden sdh menjadi earl of treyhern maka ayahnya telah meninggal.
camden sendiri kaget bisa bertemu kembali dengan helene.
helene, temannya sahabatnya kekasihnya...... tp perpisahannya dengan helene, penghianatan cassandra - istrinya - jg tekanan2 sang ayah membuat camden berubah menjadi pribadi yg keras & sinis.
helene sendiri sudah berubah menjadi wanita mandiri yg bertekad kuat tidak akan mengikuti jejak sang ibu, menjadi simpanan para pria kayak.
camden & helene mencapai kata sepakat untuk menyingkirkan masa lalu mereka & berusaha mengobati ariane yg sepeninggal cassandra tidak pernah mau berbicara lagi.
helene yg tidak memaksakan kehendak mampu membuat ariane percaya & dekat padanya.
buka hanya ariane tp juga camden.
camden spt nya tidak mampu melepaskan helene sekali lagi.
walau berusaha menolak segala perasaan yg dimiliki pada helene tp setiap kali melihat bentley mendekati helene juga pendeta yg mendekati helene, camden terbakar cembur,.
tapi pantaskah camden cemburu pdhl camden akan segera terikat dengan joan, sepupunya.
terlepas dari terjemahan acak kadut OT nih novel tetep menarik dibaca (hehehehe agak timpang sebelah nih secara aq cinta berat sama liz carlyle & HR) :p
sepanjang novel kita akan dibawa bbrp kali kembali ke masa lalu.
ke masa kecil camden - helene yg asik bermain bersama sementara ke orang tua mereka sibuk berasik masyuk hingga amsa remaja camden - helene, dimana mereka saling jatuh cinta & saling menyayangi.
hingga saat ibu helene menemukan camden dikamar helene dlm "posisi" hingga akhirnya membuat helene dikirim ke sekolah pribadi di swiss. tempat helene mengasingkan diri dari segala aib sang ibu & cintanya pd camden.
kehidupan camden & helene setelah berpisah masing2 hidup untuk orang lain, spt mereka tidak mampu memikirkan diri mereka sendiri.
pertama kalinya jatuh cinta eh harus berpisah, duh kasiannnnnn.
mana camden masih harus menghadapi kelakuan ayahnya yg masih terus tidur dengan siapapun bahkan hingga menghembuskan nafas terakhirnya dlm pelukan wanita lain.
camden harus menikah dengan cassandra untuk menyelamatkan properti juga untuk memberi kehidupan yg layak bagi adik2nya.
ketambahan sikap bentley yg tidak membantu sama sekali.
hingga kematian cassandra yg penuh skandal.
helene juga menutup dirinya terhadap laki2 & trauma dengan pernikahan.
tidak ingin menjadikan dirinya budak nafsu & harta para pria kaya.
helene sangat kecewa mendapati camden yg sekarang bukan lagi camden yg dia cintai, camden bahkan tega menawarkan helene menjadi wanita simpanannya.
duh...........
tp kehadiran helene di kediaman treyhern spt pelipur lara.
helene membuat ariane berbicara kembali.
helene juga mendapat kepercayaan bentley, membuka rahasia sikap seenaknya bentley selama ini.
ada 1 kalimat yg menggangguku di terjemahan OT ini
kalimatnya kurang lebih "pintu telah terbuka & masuklah angin puncak payudara beliung berbentuk yang mulia randolph bentham rutledge"
ya ampun wakakakakakakaka ngakak beratlah daku....
ini mungkin maksudnya angin puting beliung kali ya tp mo dihaluskan sama penerjemah tersayang kita tp hasilnya eng ing eng aneh se aneh2nya....
plissss deh mo dihaluskan liat2 dulu kaleeeee
mana ada puting beliung dihaluskan jadi puncak payudara beliung???jgn terlalu kreatip ahhhh malah kesannya jadi ga masuk akal & norak.....
tapi yah setidaknya yg ini masih lebih baik dibandingkan dengan tina gerow.
bercerita tteg helene de severs, kembali ke inggris setelah bertahun2 hidup diluar negeri & mempunyai keahlian dengan anak2.
kembali ke inggris helene mendapat pekerjaan membantu putri seorg earl. helene kaget karna ternyata earl tsb adl camden, teman sepermainannya sejak kecil jg cinta pertamanya. jika camden sdh menjadi earl of treyhern maka ayahnya telah meninggal.
camden sendiri kaget bisa bertemu kembali dengan helene.
helene, temannya sahabatnya kekasihnya...... tp perpisahannya dengan helene, penghianatan cassandra - istrinya - jg tekanan2 sang ayah membuat camden berubah menjadi pribadi yg keras & sinis.
helene sendiri sudah berubah menjadi wanita mandiri yg bertekad kuat tidak akan mengikuti jejak sang ibu, menjadi simpanan para pria kayak.
camden & helene mencapai kata sepakat untuk menyingkirkan masa lalu mereka & berusaha mengobati ariane yg sepeninggal cassandra tidak pernah mau berbicara lagi.
helene yg tidak memaksakan kehendak mampu membuat ariane percaya & dekat padanya.
buka hanya ariane tp juga camden.
camden spt nya tidak mampu melepaskan helene sekali lagi.
walau berusaha menolak segala perasaan yg dimiliki pada helene tp setiap kali melihat bentley mendekati helene juga pendeta yg mendekati helene, camden terbakar cembur,.
tapi pantaskah camden cemburu pdhl camden akan segera terikat dengan joan, sepupunya.
terlepas dari terjemahan acak kadut OT nih novel tetep menarik dibaca (hehehehe agak timpang sebelah nih secara aq cinta berat sama liz carlyle & HR) :p
sepanjang novel kita akan dibawa bbrp kali kembali ke masa lalu.
ke masa kecil camden - helene yg asik bermain bersama sementara ke orang tua mereka sibuk berasik masyuk hingga amsa remaja camden - helene, dimana mereka saling jatuh cinta & saling menyayangi.
hingga saat ibu helene menemukan camden dikamar helene dlm "posisi" hingga akhirnya membuat helene dikirim ke sekolah pribadi di swiss. tempat helene mengasingkan diri dari segala aib sang ibu & cintanya pd camden.
kehidupan camden & helene setelah berpisah masing2 hidup untuk orang lain, spt mereka tidak mampu memikirkan diri mereka sendiri.
pertama kalinya jatuh cinta eh harus berpisah, duh kasiannnnnn.
mana camden masih harus menghadapi kelakuan ayahnya yg masih terus tidur dengan siapapun bahkan hingga menghembuskan nafas terakhirnya dlm pelukan wanita lain.
camden harus menikah dengan cassandra untuk menyelamatkan properti juga untuk memberi kehidupan yg layak bagi adik2nya.
ketambahan sikap bentley yg tidak membantu sama sekali.
hingga kematian cassandra yg penuh skandal.
helene juga menutup dirinya terhadap laki2 & trauma dengan pernikahan.
tidak ingin menjadikan dirinya budak nafsu & harta para pria kaya.
helene sangat kecewa mendapati camden yg sekarang bukan lagi camden yg dia cintai, camden bahkan tega menawarkan helene menjadi wanita simpanannya.
duh...........
tp kehadiran helene di kediaman treyhern spt pelipur lara.
helene membuat ariane berbicara kembali.
helene juga mendapat kepercayaan bentley, membuka rahasia sikap seenaknya bentley selama ini.
ada 1 kalimat yg menggangguku di terjemahan OT ini
kalimatnya kurang lebih "pintu telah terbuka & masuklah angin puncak payudara beliung berbentuk yang mulia randolph bentham rutledge"
ya ampun wakakakakakakaka ngakak beratlah daku....
ini mungkin maksudnya angin puting beliung kali ya tp mo dihaluskan sama penerjemah tersayang kita tp hasilnya eng ing eng aneh se aneh2nya....
plissss deh mo dihaluskan liat2 dulu kaleeeee
mana ada puting beliung dihaluskan jadi puncak payudara beliung???jgn terlalu kreatip ahhhh malah kesannya jadi ga masuk akal & norak.....
April 12, 2012
Helene de Severs and Camden Rutledge have history, some old yet unfinished history that plays out in this story.
It is as old as the beginning of mankind, girl meets boy, boy falls in lust then love with girl, girl falls in love at the same time, BAM! compromised girl that is sent away to the continent so that boy can marry for money and save his impoverished family.
As I said, it is a story that is as old as time. But the heartbreak and bitterness is as fresh as early morning bread. Helene has self confidence and believe is marriage. Camden believes himself already promised to another person so he only offers to become lovers. I loved that Helene picks her self off the floor (literally) and covers her bared breasts and stomps out of the study with as much dignity as you can with a naked bosom. This all happens in the first 50 pages of this longer length romance novel.
There is long winded internal dialogue that keeps me from making this a four star read. I did like the Healer/healing dynamic that Helene carries in each of her interactions with the inhabitants of Chalcote manor. Camden was frustratingly male in about three-quarters of the story (the mistress episode is a good example).
I wonder about the virgin quandary, does every female bleed and/or have pain and/or have a maidenhead that can be felt by the male? I wonder if a active horseback riding woman of more then 25 would have any of those 'proofs' of virginity? This is a unscientific random thought that perhaps romantic authors need to let go of these cliches, but then how would a woman prove her innocence to her doubting lover/husband/fiance? Perhaps this means that I need to take a break from this genre and go back to nonfiction novels because if I have to read the 'maidenhead' word one more time... I'm going to throw my book against the wall and go out for an ice cream cone to cool off!
3 stars
It is as old as the beginning of mankind, girl meets boy, boy falls in lust then love with girl, girl falls in love at the same time, BAM! compromised girl that is sent away to the continent so that boy can marry for money and save his impoverished family.
As I said, it is a story that is as old as time. But the heartbreak and bitterness is as fresh as early morning bread. Helene has self confidence and believe is marriage. Camden believes himself already promised to another person so he only offers to become lovers. I loved that Helene picks her self off the floor (literally) and covers her bared breasts and stomps out of the study with as much dignity as you can with a naked bosom. This all happens in the first 50 pages of this longer length romance novel.
There is long winded internal dialogue that keeps me from making this a four star read. I did like the Healer/healing dynamic that Helene carries in each of her interactions with the inhabitants of Chalcote manor. Camden was frustratingly male in about three-quarters of the story (the mistress episode is a good example).
I wonder about the virgin quandary, does every female bleed and/or have pain and/or have a maidenhead that can be felt by the male? I wonder if a active horseback riding woman of more then 25 would have any of those 'proofs' of virginity? This is a unscientific random thought that perhaps romantic authors need to let go of these cliches, but then how would a woman prove her innocence to her doubting lover/husband/fiance? Perhaps this means that I need to take a break from this genre and go back to nonfiction novels because if I have to read the 'maidenhead' word one more time... I'm going to throw my book against the wall and go out for an ice cream cone to cool off!
3 stars
August 20, 2010
This was a very good book. At first glance you think you are getting a wallpaper historical, but as you get deeper into the book, you realize that it is more complicated than that. Helene and Cam knew each other at children. Their respective parents were lovers for years. So now they are both on the edge of adulthood and emotions and other things start popping out and erupting all over the place. Helene is sent away to Switzerland to complete her education. Twelve years pass. Cam married and his wife passed away in a fire, but left behind their daughter unable to talk.
So Cam engages the assistance of Ms. de Severes who has had alot of success dealing with children with mental issues. In walks Cam's Helene and to his shock he is still in love with her. The problem comes for both Cam and Helene as they both have suppressed their emotions and feelings to try and not be like their parents, as both their parents passions and thoughtless led to unhappiness and loss. So they both fight against loving each other and in Cam's part, not even being involved with his own brother and sister's lives. The only person he allows his feelings to show is for his daughter.
This struggle takes place through most of the book and finally they admit their feelings for one another. But before they can come to an agreement, danger strikes and puts their entire happiness at risk. I am looking forward to getting my hands on the next book in the series.
So Cam engages the assistance of Ms. de Severes who has had alot of success dealing with children with mental issues. In walks Cam's Helene and to his shock he is still in love with her. The problem comes for both Cam and Helene as they both have suppressed their emotions and feelings to try and not be like their parents, as both their parents passions and thoughtless led to unhappiness and loss. So they both fight against loving each other and in Cam's part, not even being involved with his own brother and sister's lives. The only person he allows his feelings to show is for his daughter.
This struggle takes place through most of the book and finally they admit their feelings for one another. But before they can come to an agreement, danger strikes and puts their entire happiness at risk. I am looking forward to getting my hands on the next book in the series.
March 12, 2012
The constant introspection and indecision of the main characters finally became too annoying to stand. I was interested in the relationship between the heroine Helene and the mute daughter Ariane, and how Helene worked with Ariane to gain her trust, but every time there was some development in this relationship it was thrust aside by the author for yet more "does he or doesn't he" worrying and indecision by Helene about the hero. The younger brother Bentley is superfluous to the plot, IMHO, and the story as a whole could use a lot of tightening up, editing and focusing.
Helene's jumping to the conclusion that Bentley was the one who had written the note about the elopement with Joan was totally ridiculous - the guy is just 17, he has just returned from a 2-week trip to another county, and he had tried to seduce Helene just before he left. And Helene instantly concludes that he wrote this note professing desperate love for another woman, without thinking of the other guest at the party with the initials BR? (I almost threw the book at the wall at that point ...)
Helene's jumping to the conclusion that Bentley was the one who had written the note about the elopement with Joan was totally ridiculous - the guy is just 17, he has just returned from a 2-week trip to another county, and he had tried to seduce Helene just before he left. And Helene instantly concludes that he wrote this note professing desperate love for another woman, without thinking of the other guest at the party with the initials BR? (I almost threw the book at the wall at that point ...)
April 8, 2013
I probably would have liked this more if I haven't read every other book in the series before this one - since this is the first book in the series, I was pretty much completely spoiled. Still, this is a solid read, a moody Victorian involving Helene, a governess/specialist in mental disorders, who is hired to treat the hero's mute-from-trauma six year old daughter. One wrinkle - Camden, the widowed hero, and Helene, were childhood sweethearts and each other's first loves, before their greedy awful parents tore them apart. All the characters are quite solid and I liked both leads but, as I say, from the other books I knew pretty much everything that would happen so it took the fun out of it a bit. Also, because I read The Devil You Know before this one, every time Cam's dead wife Cassandra got mentioned or every time Cam's younger troubled brother Bentley would show up and act out or be angry at his brother and Cam would react badly, I would get totally freaked out and/or get irrationally protective of poor Bentley.
February 18, 2014
This was the best historically romance reads I have read it has everything it made me laugh, cry and a child was involved to I wanted to read a book with children involved.
Cam
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWQETClI7rU...
Helene
http://choose-hairstyles.net/wp-conte...
Araine
https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/im...
Cam
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWQETClI7rU...
Helene
http://choose-hairstyles.net/wp-conte...
Araine
https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/im...
December 28, 2015
A very tragic tale of love lost and then found. A happy ending, but one which still leaves a bitter after-taste because of the waste of time and life. The culprit with the most guilt being Pride! Well written, but I tend to like a little more upbeat stories.
Currently reading
September 14, 2021re-read 2021
October 30, 2021
AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO BELIEVES THIS STORY COULD HAVE ENDED IN HALF THE AMOUNT OF CHAPTERS? IT WAS TERRIBLY LONGWINDED BUT, AT LEAST IT WASN'T THE WORSE SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE I HAVE READ, LACKING THE ANGST THAT USUALLY MAKES FOR A LESS THAN SATISFYING ENDING.
OH, AND EVER WONDERED WHAT HAPPENS IF ROMEO AND JULIET ACTUALLY GREW UP (WITHOUT ANYONE DYING) AND THEY MET AGAIN 11 YEARS LATER? WELL, THIS STORY COULD BE A PARALLEL UNIVERSE ENDING FOR THAT CLASSIC TALE.
CAM is a hero who is caught between being introverted and proactive because of his status. If you're an introvert, then you'll understand how we don't like being put on a spot, and we're not terribly eloquent and we don't like making rash decisions. Once upon a time, CAM met the love of his life at 16 or 17, and she was the one who pulled him out of his clam shell. She was like the sun, and she teased him, provoked him and inspired such lust it was beyond comprehension. Frankly, I was more interested in their taboo romance at 17 than I did when they were adults. They were both so much more fun then, and reckless it sent chills down my spine - in a good way. Anyway, Cam was forced to marry against his well to a woman he didn't love and his wife never loved him too. The poor man just never could get a break off his duty. When his daughter requires professional help, he enlists all the aid he could get, all failing until Helene enters back into his life. She was the last person he'd expected to apply for the position. Suddenly, old feelings, old doubts and rage returns like an out of control train, and Cam's more alive than he ever is. Now, did I like LIKE him? Hmm...not really because Cam's teetering too often that it makes him...too indecisive for my taste. And, the way he sort of blamed the heroine for what happened between them...made him appeared childish. Most of the time, I wished he manned up and chased the woman he loves. Of course, that's easier to say in the historical era than the 21st century.
HELENE used to be a much more interesting character as a young girl in love. Now, she's prim and proper and determined to make a career out of her profession to help special children, possibly special needs in her case. If she can't have the love of her life, then this will have to do. Except, fate has other plans installed for her because she finds herself (unknowingly) accepting a position to work with Lord Treyham - the only man she ever love(d). Oh well, she's a grown woman now...she can handle her feelings right? How Wrong! When you meet THE ONE, no amount of self-control is going to help, and logic goes out the window. The sexual tension between the two was slow-building, mainly because the author focused more on the tumult of emotions from the past. I'm not complaining. It actually gives their tragic young romance a bit of a realistic outlook and how anyone would possibly react 11 years later. I'm glad it wasn't cheapened wholly by lust. That's how you know they truly mean a lot to each other.
OVERALL the story dragged on for me, and while it was nice to see Helene getting along with Ariane, I can't say the plot twist wasn't as unpredictable that I didn't see it coming. Or rather, I had hoped. Or perhaps there were 2 plot twists? Either way, I'm glad the characters got their happily ever after and I'm glad it wasn't a kicker in the stomach SAD AF like Cecelia Ahern's 'Love, Rosie'.
OH, AND EVER WONDERED WHAT HAPPENS IF ROMEO AND JULIET ACTUALLY GREW UP (WITHOUT ANYONE DYING) AND THEY MET AGAIN 11 YEARS LATER? WELL, THIS STORY COULD BE A PARALLEL UNIVERSE ENDING FOR THAT CLASSIC TALE.
CAM is a hero who is caught between being introverted and proactive because of his status. If you're an introvert, then you'll understand how we don't like being put on a spot, and we're not terribly eloquent and we don't like making rash decisions. Once upon a time, CAM met the love of his life at 16 or 17, and she was the one who pulled him out of his clam shell. She was like the sun, and she teased him, provoked him and inspired such lust it was beyond comprehension. Frankly, I was more interested in their taboo romance at 17 than I did when they were adults. They were both so much more fun then, and reckless it sent chills down my spine - in a good way. Anyway, Cam was forced to marry against his well to a woman he didn't love and his wife never loved him too. The poor man just never could get a break off his duty. When his daughter requires professional help, he enlists all the aid he could get, all failing until Helene enters back into his life. She was the last person he'd expected to apply for the position. Suddenly, old feelings, old doubts and rage returns like an out of control train, and Cam's more alive than he ever is. Now, did I like LIKE him? Hmm...not really because Cam's teetering too often that it makes him...too indecisive for my taste. And, the way he sort of blamed the heroine for what happened between them...made him appeared childish. Most of the time, I wished he manned up and chased the woman he loves. Of course, that's easier to say in the historical era than the 21st century.
HELENE used to be a much more interesting character as a young girl in love. Now, she's prim and proper and determined to make a career out of her profession to help special children, possibly special needs in her case. If she can't have the love of her life, then this will have to do. Except, fate has other plans installed for her because she finds herself (unknowingly) accepting a position to work with Lord Treyham - the only man she ever love(d). Oh well, she's a grown woman now...she can handle her feelings right? How Wrong! When you meet THE ONE, no amount of self-control is going to help, and logic goes out the window. The sexual tension between the two was slow-building, mainly because the author focused more on the tumult of emotions from the past. I'm not complaining. It actually gives their tragic young romance a bit of a realistic outlook and how anyone would possibly react 11 years later. I'm glad it wasn't cheapened wholly by lust. That's how you know they truly mean a lot to each other.
OVERALL the story dragged on for me, and while it was nice to see Helene getting along with Ariane, I can't say the plot twist wasn't as unpredictable that I didn't see it coming. Or rather, I had hoped. Or perhaps there were 2 plot twists? Either way, I'm glad the characters got their happily ever after and I'm glad it wasn't a kicker in the stomach SAD AF like Cecelia Ahern's 'Love, Rosie'.
January 10, 2025
Beauty likes the night (พฤศจิกายน 2000) เป็นเล่มที่สาม และถือว่าเป็นหนึ่งในเล่มที่อ่อนที่สุดของเธอ (77) สำหรับคนที่สงสัยคำว่า BLTN เป็นส่วนหนึ่งของบทกลอนที่ลอร์ดไบรอนเขียน ถ้าคุณเคยได้ยินนะ She walks in beauty... แม็กซ์จำได้แค่นี้แหละ กลอนไทยยังจำไม่ได้เลย จะจำกลอนฝรั่งได้ยังไง ใช่เปล่า เล่มนี้เป็นเรื่องความผูกพันในวัยเด็ก เมื่อเฮลีนซึ่งเป็นพี่เลี้ยงเด็กที่มีความเชี่ยวชาญในการดูแลเด็กที่มีความต้องการเป็นพิเศษ และแคมเป็นพ่อผู้ซึ่งไม่อาจทำให้ลูกสาวหายช็อคจากเหตุการณ์ที่ทำให้ภรรยาของเขาต้องตายได้ แคมจึงติดต่อเฮลีนผู้ซึ่งเป็นหวานใจของเขาในวัยรุ่นสมัยที่พ่อของเขาและแม่ของเธอเคยเป็นชู้กัน ความรักที่พลัดพลาก การเจอกัน และแน่นอนการช่วยเหลือเด็กน้อยให้กลับสู่ความเป็นปกติก็เกิดขึ้น อาจเพราะว่าตัวละครในเรื่องนี้ดีเกินไปมั้งคะ แม็กซ์ก็เลยไม่ค่อยปิ๊งเท่าไหร เพราะแคมก็เป็นพี่ชายที่แสนดี เสียสละ ยอมแต่งงานกับผู้หญิงที่ไม่ได้รัก (และเลิกกับคนที่เขารักที่สุดไป) ก็เพื่อรักษาฐานะของครอบครัวไว้ เฮลีนเองก็ดีไม่แพ้กันความดีที่มากเกินไปไม่ค่อยเข้ากับแม็กซ์น่ะ ส่วนที่เด่นที่สุดในเรื่องนี้ และไม่พูดถึงคงไม่ได้ เพราะเบนท์ลีย์เป็นตัวละครที่ถูกกล่าวถึงมากที่สุดของลิซ คาร์ไลล์ เขายังปรากฎตัวในอีกหลายเล่มกว่าที่จะมีเรื่องเป็นของตัวเอง
August 7, 2021
Un romanzo scorrevole e che anche se si legge tranquillamente in un giorno ma penso che il passato dei due protagonisti non sia stato approfondito come avrei preferito. Per esempio, mi sarebbe piaciuto sapere di più sul rapporto tra la madre di Helene e il padre di Cam considerato che c’è qualcuno del personale che conosceva entrambi. Oppure la vita di Helene una volta lasciato Cam per frequentare il collegio e tanto altro.
Sono rimasta insoddisfatta anche per una parte del finale ma non svelo nulla.
Per quel che riguarda l’espediente della bambina muta e la causa non sono proprio una novità ma ho apprezzato molto i momenti in cui si è dato spazio ai pensieri, ai sentimenti e alle azioni di Ariane (la figlioletta di Cam).
E’ vero che sono riuscita a leggerlo in un giorno ma è anche vero che ero più interessata al risolto “giallo” che alla storia d’amore.
Carino ma aspetto il prossimo romanzo di quest’autrice per avere un quadro migliore.
Sono rimasta insoddisfatta anche per una parte del finale ma non svelo nulla.
Per quel che riguarda l’espediente della bambina muta e la causa non sono proprio una novità ma ho apprezzato molto i momenti in cui si è dato spazio ai pensieri, ai sentimenti e alle azioni di Ariane (la figlioletta di Cam).
E’ vero che sono riuscita a leggerlo in un giorno ma è anche vero che ero più interessata al risolto “giallo” che alla storia d’amore.
Carino ma aspetto il prossimo romanzo di quest’autrice per avere un quadro migliore.
January 12, 2019
This was entertaining and I enjoyed it overall. It's extremely cerebral for what it is. I mean, a historical romance should be an easy read in my opinion. However, I am glad I read this on my kindle because I kept having to look up what certain words or objects were. It was so time-period accurate that a modern reader will have trouble understanding everything in it. I am a college educated person with an advanced degree and I found myself constantly going "da what?" So, if you read this as a paperback have a dictionary with old-school definitions nearby. I did like it, though. It was worth the work and the story kept the pages turning. Not sure it was enough to try book #2 in the series, but time will tell.
March 15, 2022
2nd chance romance with a lot of sexual frustrations on the hero.
The pretexts are all rather typical and well used in historical romance: the heroine was a lady in disgrace and needed to earn a living, the hero was a widow with a crazy, unfaithful dead wife and a troubled child (this is new for me), they are employer and employee but oh so physically attracted to each other, there's a young blood love story in the background.
The writing is nice and side characters, mostly siblings and servants, are rather complexed than flat. The 2 twists are totally expected but still make a bit of suspense at the end.
The pretexts are all rather typical and well used in historical romance: the heroine was a lady in disgrace and needed to earn a living, the hero was a widow with a crazy, unfaithful dead wife and a troubled child (this is new for me), they are employer and employee but oh so physically attracted to each other, there's a young blood love story in the background.
The writing is nice and side characters, mostly siblings and servants, are rather complexed than flat. The 2 twists are totally expected but still make a bit of suspense at the end.
January 19, 2023
This is a bit of a slog. It's a second chance romance which is not something I particularly enjoy, so it could also just be that this isn't the right book for me. I don't love the poetry quotes or the flowery, formal language either. I had another book in this series recommended to me, but after reading this I'm not really sure I want to continue on to the next book. There's some world building here, but I can't say that the characters grabbed me or that this story makes me think the ones to follow will really hold my interest. I'm not sure I have it in me to give this author/series a second book to change my mind.
June 6, 2022
Like the other Rutledge book I've read (Bentley's story), I enjoyed the characters, and liked the H and h. The psychology angle was intriguing, but I'm disappointed that it wasn't really fleshed out - it would have been fascinating to read how h could have used her knowledge base to help Ariane. My main issue with the book was that it was about 150 pages too long, and, as with Bentley's story, I found myself skimming chunks of the book. Overall though, I liked the book and will read #2 at some point as well.
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