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Cambridge Fellows #5
Lessons in Temptation
For friends and lovers Orlando Coppersmith and Jonty Stewart, a visit to Bath starts out full of promise. While Orlando assesses the value of some old manuscripts, Jonty plans to finish his book of sonnets. Nothing exciting…until they are asked to investigate the mysterious death of a prostitute.
Then Orlando discovers that the famous curse of Macbeth extends far beyond the stage. It’s bad enough that Jonty gets drawn into a local theatre’s rehearsals of the play. The producer is none other than Jimmy Harding, a friend from Jonty’s university days who clearly finds his old pal irresistible. Worse, Jimmy makes sure Orlando knows it, posing the greatest threat so far to their happiness.
With Jonty involved in the play, Orlando must do his sleuthing alone. Meanwhile, Jonty finds himself sorely tempted by Jimmy’s undeniable allure. Even if Orlando solves the murder, his only reward could be burying his and Jonty’s love in an early grave…
Then Orlando discovers that the famous curse of Macbeth extends far beyond the stage. It’s bad enough that Jonty gets drawn into a local theatre’s rehearsals of the play. The producer is none other than Jimmy Harding, a friend from Jonty’s university days who clearly finds his old pal irresistible. Worse, Jimmy makes sure Orlando knows it, posing the greatest threat so far to their happiness.
With Jonty involved in the play, Orlando must do his sleuthing alone. Meanwhile, Jonty finds himself sorely tempted by Jimmy’s undeniable allure. Even if Orlando solves the murder, his only reward could be burying his and Jonty’s love in an early grave…
145 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2009
25 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Cochrane
86 books372 followersBecause Charlie Cochrane couldn't be trusted to do any of her jobs of choice—like managing a rugby team—she writes. Her mystery novels include the Edwardian era Cambridge Fellows series, series, and the contemporary Best Corpse for the Job. Multi-published, she has titles with Carina, Samhain, Riptide and Bold Strokes, among others.
A member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, Mystery People and International Thriller Writers Inc, Charlie regularly appears at literary festivals and at reader and author conferences with The Deadly Dames.
A member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, Mystery People and International Thriller Writers Inc, Charlie regularly appears at literary festivals and at reader and author conferences with The Deadly Dames.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 3, 2019
I was reading Lessons in Seduction when a comment about Bath made me realize that I haven't read this book.
Well, Jonty and Orlando receive a commission from the college to ascertain the value of some old manuscripts in Bath for their respective areas, literature and mathematics. Soon, as their reputation precede them, the owner of an old and prestigious bath house ask for their help to solve a cold case - a murder of a 'fallen' woman inside the aforementioned Dr. Buckner’s House of Sulis 25 years ago.
The clues of the case are old and they should start by locating witnesses, among them now old gentlemen that they were once clients of a group that used the bathhouse for licentious parties. Some of them died, others didn't remember. Who is saying the truth?, and why kill the woman?
But much of the story is about Jonty who after 2 years feels a forbidden temptation, one that can end his relationship. An old friend is setting up a Shakespeare play and has a great attraction over Jonty. The detective investigations do little to distract him from this temptation. Jealousy and maybe something worse awaits them.
In spite of how much we hate how Jonty is feeling, I think that is very well done. What is worse, however, is how well you can predict Orlando's actions.
Hopefully better times come in your relationship.
About the mystery-crime, it's ridiculously simple how they get it solved in a few days. But still, neither good nor bad. It's OK.
Well, Jonty and Orlando receive a commission from the college to ascertain the value of some old manuscripts in Bath for their respective areas, literature and mathematics. Soon, as their reputation precede them, the owner of an old and prestigious bath house ask for their help to solve a cold case - a murder of a 'fallen' woman inside the aforementioned Dr. Buckner’s House of Sulis 25 years ago.
The clues of the case are old and they should start by locating witnesses, among them now old gentlemen that they were once clients of a group that used the bathhouse for licentious parties. Some of them died, others didn't remember. Who is saying the truth?, and why kill the woman?
You must understand, Dr. Coppersmith, that for me I sought and enjoyed the companionship, and pleasant talk, as much as the physical side of things. I rarely indulged in that direction, just liked the company of girls who weren’t necessarily being egged on by their mothers into assessing one’s potential as a husband. In my youth it was like being in the silver ring, if you’ll forgive the analogy. All I wanted was a woman who wasn’t on the make.”
Orlando wondered what these girls were if not on the make.
But much of the story is about Jonty who after 2 years feels a forbidden temptation, one that can end his relationship. An old friend is setting up a Shakespeare play and has a great attraction over Jonty. The detective investigations do little to distract him from this temptation. Jealousy and maybe something worse awaits them.
In spite of how much we hate how Jonty is feeling, I think that is very well done. What is worse, however, is how well you can predict Orlando's actions.
The appearance of the word adultery in his brain made Jonty pull up short, seeing clearly who’d be on the bench — Lord Justice Mr. Stewart, and what would he say if he knew his youngest son was even contemplating a dalliance? For all that he and Orlando hadn’t spoken vows in St George’s chapel, where all the other Stewarts had held their nuptials, Jonty was, in his father’s eyes, as firmly allied to Orlando as Lavinia was to her Ralph. And Mr. Stewart would say that the same applied to God’s point of view. Adultery it would surely be.
Hopefully better times come in your relationship.
About the mystery-crime, it's ridiculously simple how they get it solved in a few days. But still, neither good nor bad. It's OK.
November 18, 2014
The fifth installment of the Cambridge Fellows series sees Jonty and Orlando visiting Bath for a working holiday that leads to a new murder case to solve and a temptation to stray for Jonty as he encounters an old friend.
The fellows are equally distracted between Jonty's flirtatious friend and a twenty-five year old murder case that sends both men going from one witness to the next getting conflicting stories and evidence. Things start to look bleak for their relationship, but they have fought so hard to be together that they both decide that they have more fight in them to keep what has become as important as life itself.
This book had me nervous in that I was worried as Jonty faced his trial not to succumb to the talented, charismatic man who shares the same enthusiasms and has determined to steal Jonty away. Orlando is worried, but other than beating the man up, he doesn't know what else he can do to keep his lover. I found this side of the story more suspenseful than the cold case murder they were working on.
Now the murder had some twists, but it wasn't as engaging as past cases since it took place so long ago.
All in all, it was another good installment that I wouldn't have missed though I do hope the next murder case is a bit more exciting.
The fellows are equally distracted between Jonty's flirtatious friend and a twenty-five year old murder case that sends both men going from one witness to the next getting conflicting stories and evidence. Things start to look bleak for their relationship, but they have fought so hard to be together that they both decide that they have more fight in them to keep what has become as important as life itself.
This book had me nervous in that I was worried as Jonty faced his trial not to succumb to the talented, charismatic man who shares the same enthusiasms and has determined to steal Jonty away. Orlando is worried, but other than beating the man up, he doesn't know what else he can do to keep his lover. I found this side of the story more suspenseful than the cold case murder they were working on.
Now the murder had some twists, but it wasn't as engaging as past cases since it took place so long ago.
All in all, it was another good installment that I wouldn't have missed though I do hope the next murder case is a bit more exciting.
May 25, 2010
I think I’m going to have to either go round to Charlie Cochrane’s house and stop her from writing anything else, or stop reviewing her books on the site because it’s becoming embarrassing as to how much we all like them. I even get different reviewers to review them, but it makes no difference. We all love ‘em, and that’s no exception with this book.
First of all, let me advise you that, as the blurb hints, these books are part of a series. (I’ve even made a category now, to make them easier to find.) However, they are so skilfully written that they can easily be read as a standalone, and Cochrane manages this (somehow) without any infodumping and pages of “this is what happened in previous books.” There is enough information, woven in with a deft hand, to tell you who these guys are, what they do, a touch of their previous adventures and that’s it. And that’s excellent, because they are only 100 pages or so, so the last thing you need is 20 pages of info thrown at you.
That being said, despite the fact that they can be read as standalones, you’ll be depriving yourself if you read them out of turn, or only read one in the series. There’s an over-reaching arc to the series, and with a romance, that’s a difficult thing to achieve. After the happy ending of the first book you’d think that there would be nothing else to tell about the characters. Well, you’d be wrong. So wrong.
Cochrane must have had the same grandmother as mine, (“keep some mystery, dear!”) or be related to Gypsy Rose Lee or something because she knows just how to string her readers along, and each book–like the best burlesque dancer–reveals a little more about these characters, a little more of their backstory–sometimes to their own detriment. What’s great about Jonty and Orlando is that, despite being deliciously affectionate with each other and really and truly soul-mates, something you never doubt–they are both rather flawed young men. Part of this comes from their pasts, both have a little darkness they are fighting with, and part of this comes from the necessary unworldliness (Orlando more so than Jonty, but all academics have a particular oddness) that living in a secluded community like a Cambridge College will bring.
The books could easily be a mish mash of schmoop and sentiment, as the men are delightfully sweet with each other (when all is going well and they are in private) but there’s always a tinge of that dark hiding behind them. Orlando is racked with guilt that he hasn’t been able to help Jonty deal with the terrors of his school years, and Jonty’s incandescent temper often threatens the subtle thread between them. And they never let their guard down, always aware of what discovery of their love would mean.
Ok – so on with this book specifically. Straight away we are led into Jonty and Orlando’s world. This time they are working away on location in Bath. What I love about Cochrane’s work is that she uses locations that she knows and loves. Places she’s been regularly–like Jersey in Lessons in Desire–and can describe in all weathers and moods. Bath is a Regency staple, of course, but it was nice to see it 100 years later, and see the differences.
As the title implies, there’s temptation on the menu in the form of the deliciously handsome bundle of gorgeousness, Jimmy Harding. An American who has an earlier friendship with Jonty. Orlando hates him at first sight, which causes friction, but then Jimmy makes it more than clear to Orlando that he’s going to make a direct play for Jonty and the sparks begin to fly. You don’t come to the Cambridge Fellow’s books for the sex, by the way, the love scenes are veiled and shrouded in imagery, but none the less emotive for that. The themes of love vs sex and loyalty vs temptation are well explored too; there were times I wanted to kill Jonty, I have to say.
This alone would be more than enough plot for most people, particularly in a novella of this size, but Cochrane isn’t that complacent. Her guys are detectives and so not only do they have to cope with the danger of Jimmy Harding, but to solve the 25 year old murder of a prostitue that seemingly no-one or everyone about. The mystery is a good “cold case” with no-one being entirely truthful or complete in their information with the two detectives, red herrings and blind alleys galore, which should satisfy the lovers of the genre. If I have one niggle in this respect it’s simply my doubt that any prostitute would turn down any offer of marriage to a wealthy and respectable man on the chance that she might land another.
Cochrane’s writing style is subtly omniscient at times, which I happen to like a lot, but it may not appeal to those who prefer a tight third person point of view which never veers from one person at a time. I think it suits the tone and the setting of the books, however.
Highly recommended and I look forward to the next book enormously. I just need to find another reviewer–however if the standard continues this high, I’m sure they’ll love number six in the series as much as I loved one to five.
This being published by Samhain, the ebook is available now, with a wait of around a year for the print edition.
First of all, let me advise you that, as the blurb hints, these books are part of a series. (I’ve even made a category now, to make them easier to find.) However, they are so skilfully written that they can easily be read as a standalone, and Cochrane manages this (somehow) without any infodumping and pages of “this is what happened in previous books.” There is enough information, woven in with a deft hand, to tell you who these guys are, what they do, a touch of their previous adventures and that’s it. And that’s excellent, because they are only 100 pages or so, so the last thing you need is 20 pages of info thrown at you.
That being said, despite the fact that they can be read as standalones, you’ll be depriving yourself if you read them out of turn, or only read one in the series. There’s an over-reaching arc to the series, and with a romance, that’s a difficult thing to achieve. After the happy ending of the first book you’d think that there would be nothing else to tell about the characters. Well, you’d be wrong. So wrong.
Cochrane must have had the same grandmother as mine, (“keep some mystery, dear!”) or be related to Gypsy Rose Lee or something because she knows just how to string her readers along, and each book–like the best burlesque dancer–reveals a little more about these characters, a little more of their backstory–sometimes to their own detriment. What’s great about Jonty and Orlando is that, despite being deliciously affectionate with each other and really and truly soul-mates, something you never doubt–they are both rather flawed young men. Part of this comes from their pasts, both have a little darkness they are fighting with, and part of this comes from the necessary unworldliness (Orlando more so than Jonty, but all academics have a particular oddness) that living in a secluded community like a Cambridge College will bring.
The books could easily be a mish mash of schmoop and sentiment, as the men are delightfully sweet with each other (when all is going well and they are in private) but there’s always a tinge of that dark hiding behind them. Orlando is racked with guilt that he hasn’t been able to help Jonty deal with the terrors of his school years, and Jonty’s incandescent temper often threatens the subtle thread between them. And they never let their guard down, always aware of what discovery of their love would mean.
Ok – so on with this book specifically. Straight away we are led into Jonty and Orlando’s world. This time they are working away on location in Bath. What I love about Cochrane’s work is that she uses locations that she knows and loves. Places she’s been regularly–like Jersey in Lessons in Desire–and can describe in all weathers and moods. Bath is a Regency staple, of course, but it was nice to see it 100 years later, and see the differences.
As the title implies, there’s temptation on the menu in the form of the deliciously handsome bundle of gorgeousness, Jimmy Harding. An American who has an earlier friendship with Jonty. Orlando hates him at first sight, which causes friction, but then Jimmy makes it more than clear to Orlando that he’s going to make a direct play for Jonty and the sparks begin to fly. You don’t come to the Cambridge Fellow’s books for the sex, by the way, the love scenes are veiled and shrouded in imagery, but none the less emotive for that. The themes of love vs sex and loyalty vs temptation are well explored too; there were times I wanted to kill Jonty, I have to say.
This alone would be more than enough plot for most people, particularly in a novella of this size, but Cochrane isn’t that complacent. Her guys are detectives and so not only do they have to cope with the danger of Jimmy Harding, but to solve the 25 year old murder of a prostitue that seemingly no-one or everyone about. The mystery is a good “cold case” with no-one being entirely truthful or complete in their information with the two detectives, red herrings and blind alleys galore, which should satisfy the lovers of the genre. If I have one niggle in this respect it’s simply my doubt that any prostitute would turn down any offer of marriage to a wealthy and respectable man on the chance that she might land another.
Cochrane’s writing style is subtly omniscient at times, which I happen to like a lot, but it may not appeal to those who prefer a tight third person point of view which never veers from one person at a time. I think it suits the tone and the setting of the books, however.
Highly recommended and I look forward to the next book enormously. I just need to find another reviewer–however if the standard continues this high, I’m sure they’ll love number six in the series as much as I loved one to five.
This being published by Samhain, the ebook is available now, with a wait of around a year for the print edition.
August 15, 2017
While in Bath, in Orlando's case to look at some mathematical books, the amateur sleuthing academics are persuaded to look into the 25 year old murder of a young prostitute at the local bathing emporuium. With five men suspect and an old trial of clues to follow things take a while to unwind.
These two are a lot of fun and their growing confidence in their sleuthing and in each other is coming through.
The temptation in the title comes from an old actor friend of Jonty's whose amateur theatre troupe are putting on the Scottish play...
These two are a lot of fun and their growing confidence in their sleuthing and in each other is coming through.
The temptation in the title comes from an old actor friend of Jonty's whose amateur theatre troupe are putting on the Scottish play...
January 27, 2016
My least favorite of the series so far. Jonty spends 3/4 of the book thinking about his old college buddy and having sex dreams about him. So I didn't like the relationship-focused bits of this one.
And the case this time was a 25-year-old murder in which they find out the victim may have had an abortion, so 90% of the case-related bits of the story were anti-abortion rhetoric. So I didn't like the case-focused bits either.
The last like 5% was good, thus the 2nd star. I may wait a while before trying #6, I'll have to see.
Favorite Quote:
"But I refuse to divulge it until I'm outside a decent bit of lunch."
And the case this time was a 25-year-old murder in which they find out the victim may have had an abortion, so 90% of the case-related bits of the story were anti-abortion rhetoric. So I didn't like the case-focused bits either.
The last like 5% was good, thus the 2nd star. I may wait a while before trying #6, I'll have to see.
Favorite Quote:
"But I refuse to divulge it until I'm outside a decent bit of lunch."
August 12, 2019
July 1907, Orlando Coppersmith and Jonty Stewart, are on a working holiday to Bath. For Orlando to assess some old manuscripts to see whether the College would like to buy them, while Jonty hopes to finish his evaluation of a book of sonnets. But while visitng the baths at the House of Sulis, a Stewart family tradition they are asked by the owner Dr Buckner to investigate the death of a female some twenty-five years ago. But what of the threat to their own personal relationship.
An enjoyable well-written mystery
An enjoyable well-written mystery
October 1, 2019
An excellent mystery and some lovely development in Jonty and Orlando's relationship. And even a little cameo by the wonderful Miss Peters -- I think every young man in love needs her ear and defense against interlopers, and I'd be happy to volunteer my services!
January 8, 2010
The fifth book of the Cambridge Fellows continues the series with a solid plot, mostly interesting mystery and a real test to the relationship. The writing and prose are very classic for the series and fans will feel right at home with the characters and setting. Although the mystery portion of the book is interesting, it’s one of the weaker who-dun-its in the series. Part of this is due to the wonderfully executed test to the relationship in the form of temptation. This particular element almost takes over the book but towards the end the mystery portion comes on stronger and ends the story on a balanced and solid note. Although this particular offering isn’t my favorite, it still offers a great look at some beloved characters and a good tale.
Familiar intellectuals Orlando and Jonty are on a trip to Bath to mix a little work and play. Orlando has some business for the university to handle while Jonty is trying to finish his Shakespearian manuscript. However neither man would be satisfied if they didn’t find additional pursuits and Orlando is thrilled there is a murder mystery offered to them while Jonty can’t help getting involved in a local play. When the play’s director turns out to be an attractive man from Jonty’s past, Jonty’s fidelity is put to the test.
The story once again uses a mixture of mystery and character driven relationship issues to please romance fans while offering an interesting who-dun-it. The mystery portion of this offering is not as strong or as interesting as past books in the series, but the clues do pick up steam towards the end of the book. For some reason I guessed the culprit very early on, but that’s not due to any predictability or problems with the mystery. There are enough clues and misdirection that the answer could be any of a number of people and the various interviews and guesswork involved is well crafted. The mystery centers around a prostitute that died 25 years ago and a majority of the detective work are interviews and supposition. There is a distinct lack of action that perhaps plays into the less interesting parts of the mystery.
Part of that is due to the real mastery in which Jonty’s temptation is played out. While the mystery struggles for most of the book, the fidelity threat is very real and honestly portrayed. Jonty loves Orlando but can’t help being attracted to the other man. Although Jonty has no real intention on acting on this unwelcome attraction, he can’t quite ignore it either. This dichotomy of what the head/heart and body want is incredibly well written and moving at points. Fidelity is a hot button in the romance genre and I was particularly glad to see the author acknowledge that even between a couple deeply in love, all other attractive people don’t magically disappear. Instead a couple has to work at the relationship, both individually and together. Although there is no question that Orlando and Jonty will be together at the end of the book, the temptation for Jonty is very real and the question of would he or wouldn’t he remained for most of the story.
Beyond the mystery and relationships aspects, Lessons in Temptation returns with a dry wit and delightful sense of humor. From the small details of Orlando’s various nicknames for others such as “Bard-pants” or “Mr. Smarmy Pants” to the small hits and kicks as displays of affection. Rarely does the reader see these happen but merely hear their effects in dialogue, which has a charm of its own. The prose has numerous affectations and nods to the time period with the great touch of Jonty as a tree in the play. If anything, the scenery and descriptions of the city of Bath were too indiscriminate from Cambridge and thus didn’t set much of a different atmosphere. However, this didn’t decrease the enjoyment any.
This particular offering can be read on its own as there is less background and development than in previous books. So for fans that haven’t been involved in the series, this is a good starting point but as always the series is best when read in order from the beginning. Fans of the authors will not want to miss this holiday gift.
Familiar intellectuals Orlando and Jonty are on a trip to Bath to mix a little work and play. Orlando has some business for the university to handle while Jonty is trying to finish his Shakespearian manuscript. However neither man would be satisfied if they didn’t find additional pursuits and Orlando is thrilled there is a murder mystery offered to them while Jonty can’t help getting involved in a local play. When the play’s director turns out to be an attractive man from Jonty’s past, Jonty’s fidelity is put to the test.
The story once again uses a mixture of mystery and character driven relationship issues to please romance fans while offering an interesting who-dun-it. The mystery portion of this offering is not as strong or as interesting as past books in the series, but the clues do pick up steam towards the end of the book. For some reason I guessed the culprit very early on, but that’s not due to any predictability or problems with the mystery. There are enough clues and misdirection that the answer could be any of a number of people and the various interviews and guesswork involved is well crafted. The mystery centers around a prostitute that died 25 years ago and a majority of the detective work are interviews and supposition. There is a distinct lack of action that perhaps plays into the less interesting parts of the mystery.
Part of that is due to the real mastery in which Jonty’s temptation is played out. While the mystery struggles for most of the book, the fidelity threat is very real and honestly portrayed. Jonty loves Orlando but can’t help being attracted to the other man. Although Jonty has no real intention on acting on this unwelcome attraction, he can’t quite ignore it either. This dichotomy of what the head/heart and body want is incredibly well written and moving at points. Fidelity is a hot button in the romance genre and I was particularly glad to see the author acknowledge that even between a couple deeply in love, all other attractive people don’t magically disappear. Instead a couple has to work at the relationship, both individually and together. Although there is no question that Orlando and Jonty will be together at the end of the book, the temptation for Jonty is very real and the question of would he or wouldn’t he remained for most of the story.
Beyond the mystery and relationships aspects, Lessons in Temptation returns with a dry wit and delightful sense of humor. From the small details of Orlando’s various nicknames for others such as “Bard-pants” or “Mr. Smarmy Pants” to the small hits and kicks as displays of affection. Rarely does the reader see these happen but merely hear their effects in dialogue, which has a charm of its own. The prose has numerous affectations and nods to the time period with the great touch of Jonty as a tree in the play. If anything, the scenery and descriptions of the city of Bath were too indiscriminate from Cambridge and thus didn’t set much of a different atmosphere. However, this didn’t decrease the enjoyment any.
This particular offering can be read on its own as there is less background and development than in previous books. So for fans that haven’t been involved in the series, this is a good starting point but as always the series is best when read in order from the beginning. Fans of the authors will not want to miss this holiday gift.
September 23, 2019
This was much better than the last one, and I had been excited to read this book even before the first in the series. The mystery, though a bit confusing with many people, many names and many storylines, it still felt satisfying to guess the right killer and the resolution though very quick, was alright given the amount of time that has surpassed since the crime.
One thing that frustrated me was the whole Jonty and his temptation thing wasn't given as much importance as it should have been, and that he hid from Orlando about straying, if just in thoughts.
I wish it had caused a fight or at least some emotional drama which then would obviously be resolved in a spectacular manner because that would lend the book and the love story a much needed dimension that it lacks.
Jonty having thoughts about someone else being treated lightly just made me irritated. I wanted Jonty and Orlando to have words about this, to have it out. Orlando, if the situation was reversed would never stray even in thoughts but the fact that Jonty wants to, and thinks it's ok to hide it from Orlando and to deal with it himself deprived Orlando and I, as a reader, from indignation.
The author, just like many others, seems to be protecting her characters from each other's wants, each others individuality. There's too much light treading going on which isn't, in my opinion, what the book needs. The characters needs to have it all out, needs to deal with each other and their wants and not be coddled by their own idealist picture of the world.
Anyways, this was a better book than the last one, in both mystery and intrigue, but it could have been so much more better if the author let her characters have some much needed friction and not be afraid that it would make a knot appear in their fragile thread of a relationship.
Sometimes, knots are good, as sailors would tell you.
One thing that frustrated me was the whole Jonty and his temptation thing wasn't given as much importance as it should have been, and that he hid from Orlando about straying, if just in thoughts.
I wish it had caused a fight or at least some emotional drama which then would obviously be resolved in a spectacular manner because that would lend the book and the love story a much needed dimension that it lacks.
Jonty having thoughts about someone else being treated lightly just made me irritated. I wanted Jonty and Orlando to have words about this, to have it out. Orlando, if the situation was reversed would never stray even in thoughts but the fact that Jonty wants to, and thinks it's ok to hide it from Orlando and to deal with it himself deprived Orlando and I, as a reader, from indignation.
The author, just like many others, seems to be protecting her characters from each other's wants, each others individuality. There's too much light treading going on which isn't, in my opinion, what the book needs. The characters needs to have it all out, needs to deal with each other and their wants and not be coddled by their own idealist picture of the world.
Anyways, this was a better book than the last one, in both mystery and intrigue, but it could have been so much more better if the author let her characters have some much needed friction and not be afraid that it would make a knot appear in their fragile thread of a relationship.
Sometimes, knots are good, as sailors would tell you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 28, 2010Reading a book with Jonty and Orlando as main characters is like meeting with old friends. There is very little to discover, but those little details are delightful.
I have always found Orlando a nice man, but maybe a bit aloof; he is most likely to react hiding himself in an imaginary shell, than facing what he didn’t like; only since Jonty knows him so well, he is able to interpreter his moods and stopping possible trouble even before they happen.
Like in this story: Orland is jealous of Jonty, of his renewed friendship with a college friend, who actually is interested in something more. And truth be told, also Jonty sometime wonders what could have been, but that is the nice thing of these characters, they are real, and like real men, they are able to question even himself. Anyway this is probably the biggest proof that Orlando is developing in a better man, less “head on the clouds”: he is able to realize that his love for Jonty is the most important thing in his life, but it’s also something that can disappear if he is not careful. I also like that, even if he doesn’t exactly react with vehemence, at least he is able to externalize his feelings, and to make Jonty aware that he doesn’t like the situation. It’s an important step in their relationship, also since, maybe, it’s the first time that Orlando claims their love, till now it was always Jonty who pursued him, and it was the time that Orlando acknowledged it.
As usual there is a mystery to solve, and as usual the mystery has more the feeling of a set of cards game than a real dangerous situation; nor Orlando or Jonty are directly involved, they are doing it out of boring, and for the pleasure of solve a puzzle, they are not, and will never been “real” detective.
There is a bit more of “daring” sex scenes, meaning that, it’s more clear when Orlando and Jonty are spending time together in the same bed, but that’s all, this series is not the place to find “hot and bothered” sex, this is more the classical example of “something happened, but you are not entailed to know the details, and why you should be? You are nor Orlando or Jonty, the only two who have that right”.
I quite like the closing chapter, with Jonty and Orlando sending separately postcards to their friends and relatives at home, both of them with their version of the true; it helps to strengthen my first impression, that this is becoming a “familiar” series, each instalment in the series is a step more in the friendship of the reader with the Cambridge Fellows.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1605048623/?...
I have always found Orlando a nice man, but maybe a bit aloof; he is most likely to react hiding himself in an imaginary shell, than facing what he didn’t like; only since Jonty knows him so well, he is able to interpreter his moods and stopping possible trouble even before they happen.
Like in this story: Orland is jealous of Jonty, of his renewed friendship with a college friend, who actually is interested in something more. And truth be told, also Jonty sometime wonders what could have been, but that is the nice thing of these characters, they are real, and like real men, they are able to question even himself. Anyway this is probably the biggest proof that Orlando is developing in a better man, less “head on the clouds”: he is able to realize that his love for Jonty is the most important thing in his life, but it’s also something that can disappear if he is not careful. I also like that, even if he doesn’t exactly react with vehemence, at least he is able to externalize his feelings, and to make Jonty aware that he doesn’t like the situation. It’s an important step in their relationship, also since, maybe, it’s the first time that Orlando claims their love, till now it was always Jonty who pursued him, and it was the time that Orlando acknowledged it.
As usual there is a mystery to solve, and as usual the mystery has more the feeling of a set of cards game than a real dangerous situation; nor Orlando or Jonty are directly involved, they are doing it out of boring, and for the pleasure of solve a puzzle, they are not, and will never been “real” detective.
There is a bit more of “daring” sex scenes, meaning that, it’s more clear when Orlando and Jonty are spending time together in the same bed, but that’s all, this series is not the place to find “hot and bothered” sex, this is more the classical example of “something happened, but you are not entailed to know the details, and why you should be? You are nor Orlando or Jonty, the only two who have that right”.
I quite like the closing chapter, with Jonty and Orlando sending separately postcards to their friends and relatives at home, both of them with their version of the true; it helps to strengthen my first impression, that this is becoming a “familiar” series, each instalment in the series is a step more in the friendship of the reader with the Cambridge Fellows.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1605048623/?...
August 23, 2014
I almost didn't read this story, and I actually started it with the intention of reading just a bit of the beginning and then skipping to the end. The reason is that the plotline involves Jonty being really and truly tempted to "cheat" on Orlando with the director of a play being staged in Bath. He'd known Jimmy, who is an American and who doesn't hide his desires or intentions, back at school, although I'm not exactly sure which school. St. Brides? Anyway, I thought I could barely face the disruption of the special bond between Jonty and Orlando...but I was wrong. The author doesn't skirt the issue; rather, she faces it not only head-on but also in a thorough and mature way. I was really struck by the honesty of the situation from Jonty's point of view. It resonated. It felt familiar, because who in a committed relationship has not been tempted? Excellent, excellent work on the part of the author! I am truly impressed.
October 11, 2022
Well, we are up to book #5 and I am still intrigued by these two unique characters!
I had this long, I am sure wonderful review floating around in my head as I finished the last sentence of this book, but then I realized that it would take way too much time to type it and I really need to move on to the next book, sooooo...
Just when I think these two are settling into their relationship there is still yet another obstacle there to cause havoc and stress... not to mention another mystery! Frankly, I am exhausted for them and think I would be staying at home... in the cottage... for a while, just to put their feet up and spend time with each other... but, that's just me!
OK, Lessons in Seduction is calling my name!
I had this long, I am sure wonderful review floating around in my head as I finished the last sentence of this book, but then I realized that it would take way too much time to type it and I really need to move on to the next book, sooooo...
Just when I think these two are settling into their relationship there is still yet another obstacle there to cause havoc and stress... not to mention another mystery! Frankly, I am exhausted for them and think I would be staying at home... in the cottage... for a while, just to put their feet up and spend time with each other... but, that's just me!
OK, Lessons in Seduction is calling my name!
January 18, 2016
I was so worried for Orlando. I know Jonty was having a problem resolving his attraction to another man but he should have talked about it. He almost lost Orlando but once he cleared up the issue, I realized that Orlando still needed that reassurance. He has so little self esteem where his relationships with Jonty and his friends and family are concerned. He's still surprised he even HAS friends.
Another favorite. Recommended.
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1st read - Mar 7, 2015
2nd read - Jan 16, 2016
Another favorite. Recommended.
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1st read - Mar 7, 2015
2nd read - Jan 16, 2016
January 21, 2015
This one was a bit of a rollercoaster for me. Cheating is a non-issue for me normally, but I guess the fact that I got irritated just goes to show how fond I am of Dr. Coppersmith. It was a very (maybe a little too) real portrayal of a couple going through the trials of temptation and jealousy. I fall further and further in love with this world.
August 12, 2013
I wanted to f*cking kill Jimmy.
All the time. And Jonty too.
It was a nice book. It keeps getting better! :)
All the time. And Jonty too.
It was a nice book. It keeps getting better! :)
January 4, 2010
Charlie Cochrane just gets better and better. She has a true gift with words. Orlando and Jonty are wonderful, full-fledged characters who continue to evolve.
September 25, 2019
Jonty and Orlando are working on projects in Bath, but Orlando is looking to solve a murder. They stumble upon a cold case while at the healing waters at the House of Sulis, where a fallen woman was murdered 25 years prior.
At the same time, Jonty meets an old friend putting on a production of Macbeth, abd can’t help feeling attracted to him. These events all connect to the theme of jealousy, the very thing Jonty is writing about to finish his book on the sonnets of Shakespeare.
As they find more clues and the tension heats up, both with the murder and the play producer, Jimmy, things become muddier and muddier. With each man coming to clarity, they figure out who did the deed, and Jonty soundly shuts down his pursuer once and for all.
Nicely done.
KU
At the same time, Jonty meets an old friend putting on a production of Macbeth, abd can’t help feeling attracted to him. These events all connect to the theme of jealousy, the very thing Jonty is writing about to finish his book on the sonnets of Shakespeare.
As they find more clues and the tension heats up, both with the murder and the play producer, Jimmy, things become muddier and muddier. With each man coming to clarity, they figure out who did the deed, and Jonty soundly shuts down his pursuer once and for all.
Nicely done.
KU
October 29, 2022
Although I love the Cambridge setting that Charlie Cochrane has developed so lovingly for these stories, it's always fun when she takes them elsewhere and I thoroughly enjoyed the jaunt to Edwardian Bath.
The cold case mystery was absorbing as ever, but what made this story for me was ebullient, straightforward Jonty realising with some horror that despite being deeply in love with Orlando, he is also capable of being attracted to another. His dilemma was so beautifully written and so insightful and I enjoyed the parallels with the dark emotions in Shakespeare's sonnets that Jonty never quite understood previously.
I just love these two and the wonderful supporting cast the author has created.
The cold case mystery was absorbing as ever, but what made this story for me was ebullient, straightforward Jonty realising with some horror that despite being deeply in love with Orlando, he is also capable of being attracted to another. His dilemma was so beautifully written and so insightful and I enjoyed the parallels with the dark emotions in Shakespeare's sonnets that Jonty never quite understood previously.
I just love these two and the wonderful supporting cast the author has created.
July 4, 2022
I appreciate when a series has gotten to book 5 or 6. By this time, the personality of the characters is really settling in and the MC relationship, if there is one, is fairly firm. Jonty and Orlando have been together for awhile now and I loved seeing the nuances in their relationship. It was also nice to see how the couple handled a true rival, in the form of Jonty's old college friend who beelines towards Jonty like he's a tall cool drink of water in the Gobi desert. The mystery part was a little light in this one, but entertaining none the less. It's an old murder, and I really wanted them to dig into something current. All in all though, very excellent, entertaining read.
September 11, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up from me. Good mystery, Orlando's jealousy made me laugh out loud more than once, and his thoughts and comments about Jimmy 'Hair-Oil' Harding, the slimy Yank, were just so typical of the time. Yet again, Charlie Cochrane chose a beautiful part of the UK [Bath and the surrounding area] to base her story. We did at least have paragraphs in this particular story. Onto book 6 Lessons in Seduction.
February 16, 2020
Great m/m story
This is an exceptional addition to the series of two Cambridge professors in love and yet again solving a murder mystery. This time they are in the city of Bath and again the time of early twentieth century sensibilities and the place are so convincingly portrayed. I can't recommend this book and the series highly enough. My only complaint now that I am into the series is that the number of the book is not on the cover so I can keep them in order.
This is an exceptional addition to the series of two Cambridge professors in love and yet again solving a murder mystery. This time they are in the city of Bath and again the time of early twentieth century sensibilities and the place are so convincingly portrayed. I can't recommend this book and the series highly enough. My only complaint now that I am into the series is that the number of the book is not on the cover so I can keep them in order.
October 28, 2019
The 5th installment in this delightful series. In this the author has cleverly intertwined what is happening in the story to what Jonty is trying to fathom in his own writing. We see Jonty being tempted by an old friend and jealousy pushing Orlando to do the unthinkable. All the while that these two are fighting their own particular battles they are also attempting to solve an old mystery.
While still a good read it was not my favourite so far.
4 stars
While still a good read it was not my favourite so far.
4 stars
July 19, 2018
The trouble in Bath
I am just love g this series, the love life of two Victorian academics and murder and mystery is a heady concoction. It has even had me reading the Sonnets of the Bard.
I am just love g this series, the love life of two Victorian academics and murder and mystery is a heady concoction. It has even had me reading the Sonnets of the Bard.
May 9, 2020
I am enjoying this series.
In this book the boys are in Bath and are called in to investigate a 25 year old murder of a prostitute.
Also an old friend of Jonty's arrives to produce the Scottish play and Orlando is jealous of him and Jonty's is wrestling over the prospect of a dalliance.
In this book the boys are in Bath and are called in to investigate a 25 year old murder of a prostitute.
Also an old friend of Jonty's arrives to produce the Scottish play and Orlando is jealous of him and Jonty's is wrestling over the prospect of a dalliance.
December 22, 2024
Another great adventure
I love all the different mixes in these adventures. They are all woven together with the writings of Shakespeare and other bards. Add in the mystery and life lessons if these 2 young fellas and it all makes for a great read.
I love all the different mixes in these adventures. They are all woven together with the writings of Shakespeare and other bards. Add in the mystery and life lessons if these 2 young fellas and it all makes for a great read.
September 12, 2018
3 stars as well for the mystery than for the relationship between Jonty and Orlando
July 8, 2019
I like these books but my God can I have just ONE explicit sex scene? Like I do enjoy reading these books but like it's always just PG-13 and I want an NC-17 scene, just one.
March 30, 2020
Review to come!
June 21, 2020
A well researched historical romantic mystery. Set in the early 20th century this series is well written with likable characters.
May 20, 2024
4.5 stars
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