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Georgian Gamesters #1
The Highest Stakes
WHAT WOULD YOU WAGER FOR LOVE?
In the high stakes gentleman's world of 18th century horseracing, when the blood of the "desert kings" ruled the English turf, a hero returns from war to claim the girl he has loved since he first spied her riding hell-for-leather over the Doncaster heath. Determined to have her at any cost, he will risk everything.
A story of star-crossed lovers and horseracing, THE HIGHEST STAKES transports the reader to 18th century England, an era infamous for corruption, arranged marriages, and high stakes gambling; when racing and breeding became the obsession of the uppermost elite, and a match race might replace a duel in settling a point of honor.
Through the fictional love story of Robert Devington and Charlottte Wallace, a tale of drama, danger, thwarted love, and retribution unfurls...
In the high stakes gentleman's world of 18th century horseracing, when the blood of the "desert kings" ruled the English turf, a hero returns from war to claim the girl he has loved since he first spied her riding hell-for-leather over the Doncaster heath. Determined to have her at any cost, he will risk everything.
A story of star-crossed lovers and horseracing, THE HIGHEST STAKES transports the reader to 18th century England, an era infamous for corruption, arranged marriages, and high stakes gambling; when racing and breeding became the obsession of the uppermost elite, and a match race might replace a duel in settling a point of honor.
Through the fictional love story of Robert Devington and Charlottte Wallace, a tale of drama, danger, thwarted love, and retribution unfurls...
542 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
34 people are currently reading
1269 people want to read
About the author
Emery Lee
5 books171 followersWhether historical fiction or historical romance, self-professed Georgian junkie Emery Lee loves nothing more than crafting emotionally compelling stories that bring the past vividly to life.
"Lee brings the atmosphere of the Georgian era to life with lush descriptions that beg the reader to see, hear, feel and touch it all....with a lively cast of characters and surprising twists and turns that are reminiscent of Fielding’s Tom Jones or Defoe’s Moll Flanders."-RT BOOK REVIEWS
Her debut novel THE HIGHEST STAKES, is an epic tale of star-cross lovers set in the high stakes world of 18th century horse racing. In FORTUNE'S SON, Emery spins a web of drama, passion, and deceit, deep in the world of high stakes gaming.
She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, Romance Writers of America, RWA , Georgia Romance Writers, and the group moderator for Goodreads Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers.
http://authoremerylee.com
She also writes hot historical romance as VICTORIA VANE
http://authorvictoriavane.com
Email: authoremerylee@yahoo.com
Blog: http://georgianjunkie.wordpress.com
Twitter: authoremerylee
FACEBOOK: Author Emery Lee
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
"Lee brings the atmosphere of the Georgian era to life with lush descriptions that beg the reader to see, hear, feel and touch it all....with a lively cast of characters and surprising twists and turns that are reminiscent of Fielding’s Tom Jones or Defoe’s Moll Flanders."-RT BOOK REVIEWS
Her debut novel THE HIGHEST STAKES, is an epic tale of star-cross lovers set in the high stakes world of 18th century horse racing. In FORTUNE'S SON, Emery spins a web of drama, passion, and deceit, deep in the world of high stakes gaming.
She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, Romance Writers of America, RWA , Georgia Romance Writers, and the group moderator for Goodreads Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers.
http://authoremerylee.com
She also writes hot historical romance as VICTORIA VANE
http://authorvictoriavane.com
Email: authoremerylee@yahoo.com
Blog: http://georgianjunkie.wordpress.com
Twitter: authoremerylee
FACEBOOK: Author Emery Lee
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 18, 2010
4 ½ stars – Romantic Historical Fiction
Note: This is actually my second review, as the original got lost somewhere on the Island of Server Timeouts and Misfit Reviews.
At this stage in my life, I read exclusively romance (of various subgenres) because it’s what interests and entertains me, and life is too short to read books that I don’t want to. I used to read historical fiction and non-fiction because I enjoy learning about people and places in various times and seeing the ways society has changed, progressed, and sometimes digressed. That probably explains why I love historical romance so much, since it satisfies my historical and cultural curiosity while still giving me my much needed romance fix.
I’m not an equine expert by any means, but I enjoy equestrian sports and events, like horseracing, as a spectator and respect the awe-inspiring power, majestic beauty, and historical significance of horses. I love books and movies that feature horses prominently, like Riding Lessons by Sara Gruen, The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans and its film version, Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry and the TV mini-series, one of my all time favorite movies The Man From Snowy River, and Hidalgo, Seabiscuit, and Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken to name a few others.
So a book that combines 18th century English history with strong equine elements, like breeding and horseracing, and yet is at its heart an epic account of star-crossed lovers? That sounded intriguing indeed, and I’m grateful to new author Emery Lee for giving me the chance to read her romantic historical fiction debut, The Highest Stakes.
The attention grabbing prologue sets the stage for a riveting tale of retribution, but it’s so much more than that. Set mostly in Georgian England and mainly spanning a period of nine years, between 1742 and 1751, this is a powerful, evocative, and complex tale of true love, social class differences, friendship, adventure, war, greed, betrayal, and revenge, all centered on and around the high stakes world of horseracing.
Let me just say upfront that although the racing serves as an important expression of characters and events, there are a lot of complicated details on horse breeding, bloodlines, lineages, and training that some readers might find a bit cumbersome, especially in the first part of the book, but I think you can skim through those passages (if it’s not of great interest to you) and still highly enjoy all of the other elements. I know I did! There are several intriguing characters worth mentioning, but for the sake of brevity, I’ll focus on the three key players: Charlotte, Robert, and Philip.
Orphaned Charlotte Wallace is a lonely, adventurous girl who’s only freedom from her aristocratic uncle’s cruelty, emotional neglect, and oppression is training and riding horses unimpeded across the heath of the family estate. Then she meets a kindred spirit and genuine friend in poor, hardworking stable groom Robert Devington, who shares her intense passion for horses, and their kinship soon evolves into deep love. Charlotte makes it clear that Robert’s lack of social and financial status mean nothing to her and that all she desires is for them to be together. But Robert knows that her uncle and other members of the elitist ton will never accept him without wealth and standing, so he leaves to join the military in order to prove himself worthy of earning Charlotte’s hand.
Robert becomes a trooper in the King’s Horse Guard and develops a close friendship with his Troop’s leader, Major Philip Drake. Philip is the second born son of an aristocratic family and an affable, notorious rake and spendthrift of often dubious morals, whereas Robert is serious, honorable, steadfast, loyal, and celibate in his faithfulness to Charlotte but of low class birth. Although Philip and Robert are complete opposites in social station and personality, theirs is a brotherhood forged in blood and battle. Their friendship is an integral part of the story and ultimately has far-reaching, irrevocable ramifications.
After distinguishing himself nobly in various military campaigns and earning a title and prestige in the King’s Horse, Robert returns to claim his true love. However, Charlotte’s villainous, elitist uncle refuses to see him as anything but a lowly stable hand, and he conspires with other forces to thwart their love and to keep Robert and Charlotte forever apart. This is where the “highest stakes” part of the plot comes into play, with an ultimate wager on a horserace with honor and a betrothal, not just money, as the prize that becomes a life-altering catalyst for the characters.
I was so infuriated at Robert for not trusting in Charlotte’s commitment and willingness to endure any obstacle to be with him, regardless of his social position and lack of wealth, and for doubting her loyalty. But I think his motivations, decisions, and reactions were totally realistic because a man’s identity and pride are often tied with his being able to provide for and support his woman and family.
Philip Drake is a charismatic, complex, hard to define character whose selfish actions resulted in devastating consequences for several characters. There are multi-faceted layers to Philip’s personality that have yet to be completely revealed, so I’m looking forward to finding out more about him and hopefully having some questions answered in Lee’s next book.
It’s an epic, against all odds love story that will twist your emotions and have you cheering, cursing in anger and frustration, and possibly screaming noooo! at times (like I did). But I have to give author Emery Lee kudos for its authenticity and for not taking the easy road with the characters, even though it was really trying to witness their pain, injustices, and hardships. One thing to keep in mind (for romance readers like me) is that although it’s a passionate love story, the actual physical intimacies besides kissing and some mild petting happen off the page, but the relationships were so emotionally intense and well developed that I didn’t miss the sex.
Two things kept me from rating it five stars: 1) The excessive equine breeding details that sometimes overwhelmed the story’s flow and characters and 2) the abrupt, rather anticlimactic ending. After enduring so much emotional agony, tumult, heartbreak, and drama between Robert and Charlotte, I wanted a little more closure and gratification in the end. Yes, there is a satisfying HEA, but it’s over with much too quickly. I wanted another chapter and/or more of an epilogue...darn you, Ms. Lee! :)
The Highest Stakes is an original, well researched, intelligently written, poignant, and sweeping saga that should appeal to horse enthusiasts, historical fiction readers, and fans of unique, complex, Georgian historical romance with star-crossed love theme. 4 ½ stars!
“Try as you may, you can never defy love.”
Finally, mutually, and completely, they released all doubts, abandoned all fears, unwilling and unable to deny this overpowering love.
Note: This is actually my second review, as the original got lost somewhere on the Island of Server Timeouts and Misfit Reviews.
At this stage in my life, I read exclusively romance (of various subgenres) because it’s what interests and entertains me, and life is too short to read books that I don’t want to. I used to read historical fiction and non-fiction because I enjoy learning about people and places in various times and seeing the ways society has changed, progressed, and sometimes digressed. That probably explains why I love historical romance so much, since it satisfies my historical and cultural curiosity while still giving me my much needed romance fix.
I’m not an equine expert by any means, but I enjoy equestrian sports and events, like horseracing, as a spectator and respect the awe-inspiring power, majestic beauty, and historical significance of horses. I love books and movies that feature horses prominently, like Riding Lessons by Sara Gruen, The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans and its film version, Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry and the TV mini-series, one of my all time favorite movies The Man From Snowy River, and Hidalgo, Seabiscuit, and Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken to name a few others.
So a book that combines 18th century English history with strong equine elements, like breeding and horseracing, and yet is at its heart an epic account of star-crossed lovers? That sounded intriguing indeed, and I’m grateful to new author Emery Lee for giving me the chance to read her romantic historical fiction debut, The Highest Stakes.
The attention grabbing prologue sets the stage for a riveting tale of retribution, but it’s so much more than that. Set mostly in Georgian England and mainly spanning a period of nine years, between 1742 and 1751, this is a powerful, evocative, and complex tale of true love, social class differences, friendship, adventure, war, greed, betrayal, and revenge, all centered on and around the high stakes world of horseracing.
Let me just say upfront that although the racing serves as an important expression of characters and events, there are a lot of complicated details on horse breeding, bloodlines, lineages, and training that some readers might find a bit cumbersome, especially in the first part of the book, but I think you can skim through those passages (if it’s not of great interest to you) and still highly enjoy all of the other elements. I know I did! There are several intriguing characters worth mentioning, but for the sake of brevity, I’ll focus on the three key players: Charlotte, Robert, and Philip.
Orphaned Charlotte Wallace is a lonely, adventurous girl who’s only freedom from her aristocratic uncle’s cruelty, emotional neglect, and oppression is training and riding horses unimpeded across the heath of the family estate. Then she meets a kindred spirit and genuine friend in poor, hardworking stable groom Robert Devington, who shares her intense passion for horses, and their kinship soon evolves into deep love. Charlotte makes it clear that Robert’s lack of social and financial status mean nothing to her and that all she desires is for them to be together. But Robert knows that her uncle and other members of the elitist ton will never accept him without wealth and standing, so he leaves to join the military in order to prove himself worthy of earning Charlotte’s hand.
Robert becomes a trooper in the King’s Horse Guard and develops a close friendship with his Troop’s leader, Major Philip Drake. Philip is the second born son of an aristocratic family and an affable, notorious rake and spendthrift of often dubious morals, whereas Robert is serious, honorable, steadfast, loyal, and celibate in his faithfulness to Charlotte but of low class birth. Although Philip and Robert are complete opposites in social station and personality, theirs is a brotherhood forged in blood and battle. Their friendship is an integral part of the story and ultimately has far-reaching, irrevocable ramifications.
After distinguishing himself nobly in various military campaigns and earning a title and prestige in the King’s Horse, Robert returns to claim his true love. However, Charlotte’s villainous, elitist uncle refuses to see him as anything but a lowly stable hand, and he conspires with other forces to thwart their love and to keep Robert and Charlotte forever apart. This is where the “highest stakes” part of the plot comes into play, with an ultimate wager on a horserace with honor and a betrothal, not just money, as the prize that becomes a life-altering catalyst for the characters.
I was so infuriated at Robert for not trusting in Charlotte’s commitment and willingness to endure any obstacle to be with him, regardless of his social position and lack of wealth, and for doubting her loyalty. But I think his motivations, decisions, and reactions were totally realistic because a man’s identity and pride are often tied with his being able to provide for and support his woman and family.
Philip Drake is a charismatic, complex, hard to define character whose selfish actions resulted in devastating consequences for several characters. There are multi-faceted layers to Philip’s personality that have yet to be completely revealed, so I’m looking forward to finding out more about him and hopefully having some questions answered in Lee’s next book.
It’s an epic, against all odds love story that will twist your emotions and have you cheering, cursing in anger and frustration, and possibly screaming noooo! at times (like I did). But I have to give author Emery Lee kudos for its authenticity and for not taking the easy road with the characters, even though it was really trying to witness their pain, injustices, and hardships. One thing to keep in mind (for romance readers like me) is that although it’s a passionate love story, the actual physical intimacies besides kissing and some mild petting happen off the page, but the relationships were so emotionally intense and well developed that I didn’t miss the sex.
Two things kept me from rating it five stars: 1) The excessive equine breeding details that sometimes overwhelmed the story’s flow and characters and 2) the abrupt, rather anticlimactic ending. After enduring so much emotional agony, tumult, heartbreak, and drama between Robert and Charlotte, I wanted a little more closure and gratification in the end. Yes, there is a satisfying HEA, but it’s over with much too quickly. I wanted another chapter and/or more of an epilogue...darn you, Ms. Lee! :)
The Highest Stakes is an original, well researched, intelligently written, poignant, and sweeping saga that should appeal to horse enthusiasts, historical fiction readers, and fans of unique, complex, Georgian historical romance with star-crossed love theme. 4 ½ stars!
“Try as you may, you can never defy love.”
Finally, mutually, and completely, they released all doubts, abandoned all fears, unwilling and unable to deny this overpowering love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2010
First of all, I want to thank Emery Lee for the opportunity to read her book. This was not a typical read for me, since I don't tend to read a lot of historical fiction that is not romance. The Highest Stakes was a good stepping stone for me into the historical fiction genre, with a good, strong love story for my romance-loving palate.
I have to confess I did not grow up with horses. I actually never really had contact with them until I was in college. So, I became a equine aficionado later in my life. Without a doubt, The Highest Stakes is a book for horse-lovers. It is very clear that Ms. Lee loves, understands, and respects horses; and is very much an equestrienne. I appreciate the detail that she put into describing people firmly immersed in horse culture, and in giving this horse-racing novice a crash course into the horse-racing industry. Now, don't expect me to be down at the horse tracks every weekend. That's not going to happen. But I must say, I have a lot more respect for what goes into horse-racing. I am just as much a horse-lover as I ever was, maybe a little more after this book. In fact, I loved reading about the details of equine husbandry. I can certainly see how it becomes an obsession that can drive people in many ways, like it did with the three main characters in this story: Robert, Charlotte, and Philip.
On top of the foundation of horse-racing, this is a story about human nature: the dark sides, and the fundamental urges within people that drive them to achieve what they want most in life. For Robert and Charlotte, they just wanted each other. A mutual love of horses was their intial connection, and a great love blossomed between them from that starting point. Their road to happiness was a very crooked, even heartbreaking path. Many times, I felt like I was being twisted into painful knots as I read about all the troubles that this couple faced. I wanted to keep reading, crossing my fingers that things would work out; and at times, I was afraid to read one more page, for fear that their love would be driven past the point of survival. Fate seemed against them at many turns, although there was also a providential guiding hand that kept them working and striving towards their future together. I came to love and respect them both very deeply. I respect Ms. Lee that she was not afraid to put this couple through so much over the course of this book, even if it didn't always make for comfortable reading for me.
Philip was by far the most complex character. I must confess I still don't quite have him figured out. He manages to be a very self-serving person, but at the same time, he has a core of honor. Towards the end of the book, I really wanted to hate him, but I found I could not, because he was such a fascinating person, and truly did want to be a good man. He made some wrong decisions that really hurt two people that he cared about. At the same time, he played an important role in their destinies, and in some ways, helped to drive them to achieve the successes they obtained in the horsebreeding fields. One thing was for certain, he came very close to stealing the show, despite the fact that I really loved Robert and Charlotte's characters.
The writing was very good. Ms. Lee firmly establishes the Georgian period, and she doesn't have to spend a lot of detail describing what the characters wore, or what their houses looked like. Instead, she weaves in a time table of important events that occur in the background of this story, and which involve Robert and Phillip to no small extent. It felt very authentic, yet she always kept this book readable. To be honest, I am not sure that this book would appeal to readers who have no interest in horses. But that's okay. I am glad that Ms. Lee wrote a book about a subject that she clearly has a lot of passion for, and did it well; for her passion for horses is quite infectious to those who have the slightest inclination in that direction.
Quite frankly, this book came very close to being a five star book. I think that for readers who don't mind some very complicated obstacles between the hero and heroine, it probably would be a five star book. Unfortunately, I just don't like when the hero and heroine are together while they are married to other people. I really regretted that Robert and Charlotte's first time together occurs after she is forced to marry Philip. I can see that this was a realistic choice for Ms. Lee to make in plotting her story, but it just left a bad taste in my mouth. I would have preferred for Robert and Charlotte's happy ending to be unmarred by this. I freely admit that adultery is my huge pet peeve and it's hard to get past that when I am reading a romantic story. Despite that fact, I cheered on the couple for being able to get their happy ending. My other issue was that I found the ending to be a little abrupt. I was very glad to see Robert and Charlotte to achieve many of their life goals, but I would have preferred to see a little more page time spent on their reunion and how they dealt with Phillip. I did like the letter. It was a nice, and very fitting way for some of the denouement to be incorporated into the story.
The Highest Stakes was an excellent book. I was emotionally and intellectually involved with this story. It is very clear that Ms. Lee put a lot of heart and soul into this book, making for a great reading experience. Highly recommended to horse-lovers, fans of historical fiction, and those who love a good star-crossed romance.
Overall rating: 4.5/5.0 stars.
I have to confess I did not grow up with horses. I actually never really had contact with them until I was in college. So, I became a equine aficionado later in my life. Without a doubt, The Highest Stakes is a book for horse-lovers. It is very clear that Ms. Lee loves, understands, and respects horses; and is very much an equestrienne. I appreciate the detail that she put into describing people firmly immersed in horse culture, and in giving this horse-racing novice a crash course into the horse-racing industry. Now, don't expect me to be down at the horse tracks every weekend. That's not going to happen. But I must say, I have a lot more respect for what goes into horse-racing. I am just as much a horse-lover as I ever was, maybe a little more after this book. In fact, I loved reading about the details of equine husbandry. I can certainly see how it becomes an obsession that can drive people in many ways, like it did with the three main characters in this story: Robert, Charlotte, and Philip.
On top of the foundation of horse-racing, this is a story about human nature: the dark sides, and the fundamental urges within people that drive them to achieve what they want most in life. For Robert and Charlotte, they just wanted each other. A mutual love of horses was their intial connection, and a great love blossomed between them from that starting point. Their road to happiness was a very crooked, even heartbreaking path. Many times, I felt like I was being twisted into painful knots as I read about all the troubles that this couple faced. I wanted to keep reading, crossing my fingers that things would work out; and at times, I was afraid to read one more page, for fear that their love would be driven past the point of survival. Fate seemed against them at many turns, although there was also a providential guiding hand that kept them working and striving towards their future together. I came to love and respect them both very deeply. I respect Ms. Lee that she was not afraid to put this couple through so much over the course of this book, even if it didn't always make for comfortable reading for me.
Philip was by far the most complex character. I must confess I still don't quite have him figured out. He manages to be a very self-serving person, but at the same time, he has a core of honor. Towards the end of the book, I really wanted to hate him, but I found I could not, because he was such a fascinating person, and truly did want to be a good man. He made some wrong decisions that really hurt two people that he cared about. At the same time, he played an important role in their destinies, and in some ways, helped to drive them to achieve the successes they obtained in the horsebreeding fields. One thing was for certain, he came very close to stealing the show, despite the fact that I really loved Robert and Charlotte's characters.
The writing was very good. Ms. Lee firmly establishes the Georgian period, and she doesn't have to spend a lot of detail describing what the characters wore, or what their houses looked like. Instead, she weaves in a time table of important events that occur in the background of this story, and which involve Robert and Phillip to no small extent. It felt very authentic, yet she always kept this book readable. To be honest, I am not sure that this book would appeal to readers who have no interest in horses. But that's okay. I am glad that Ms. Lee wrote a book about a subject that she clearly has a lot of passion for, and did it well; for her passion for horses is quite infectious to those who have the slightest inclination in that direction.
Quite frankly, this book came very close to being a five star book. I think that for readers who don't mind some very complicated obstacles between the hero and heroine, it probably would be a five star book. Unfortunately, I just don't like when the hero and heroine are together while they are married to other people. I really regretted that Robert and Charlotte's first time together occurs after she is forced to marry Philip. I can see that this was a realistic choice for Ms. Lee to make in plotting her story, but it just left a bad taste in my mouth. I would have preferred for Robert and Charlotte's happy ending to be unmarred by this. I freely admit that adultery is my huge pet peeve and it's hard to get past that when I am reading a romantic story. Despite that fact, I cheered on the couple for being able to get their happy ending. My other issue was that I found the ending to be a little abrupt. I was very glad to see Robert and Charlotte to achieve many of their life goals, but I would have preferred to see a little more page time spent on their reunion and how they dealt with Phillip. I did like the letter. It was a nice, and very fitting way for some of the denouement to be incorporated into the story.
The Highest Stakes was an excellent book. I was emotionally and intellectually involved with this story. It is very clear that Ms. Lee put a lot of heart and soul into this book, making for a great reading experience. Highly recommended to horse-lovers, fans of historical fiction, and those who love a good star-crossed romance.
Overall rating: 4.5/5.0 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2011
Wow, I don’t know where to start with this book, so much to say, so little space! First I need to say I LOVED it, it was INCREDIBLE. So why the 4 star rating, well, that’s the problem, there are so many layers to this book, one would almost have to review it in stages to really do it justice, it’s just that complex.
The first half of the book spends a lot of time describing the intricacies of the horse breeding and racing world of the 18th century. To a horse lover or anyone open to learning, it is interesting. It is explained in such detail, however, that it almost overshadows the developing story. Those readers who have but a general interest in these things may choose to give up and quit reading. That would be a BIG mistake! Even if one has to skim-read parts, I would encourage perseverance because the second half of the book takes off like a lightening shot and never looks back!
Charlotte and Robert’s love for each other, in spite of their differences in social standing, pits them against the world, building through the first half of the book, then launching us on a roller-coaster ride of emotion until the final confrontation at the end. I have seldom seen more twists and turns that I could NOT figure out or guess the outcome of! It is so well written that it keeps you blindly guessing in the dark with each new coil. The history is point on, deftly interwoven into the plot in such a way that one doesn’t feel dumped on but is enlightened without really recognizing.
The one problem (and it is a big one) I saw among the multitude of applause is the ending. I HATED IT!!! Dare I add more exclamation points? It is not the HEA, per say (there is one) it is the circumstances directly leading up to that “happily ever after”. Upon reading the last three pages of the story, I wanted to throw the book at the wall, then run over and stomp on it repeatedly and throw it at the opposite wall! DO NOT bring me to a heart wrenching climax, then just give up (hmm, no pun intended)!!!! A climatic ending works only if the reader is left satisfied enough to believe the HEA is real!
Whew, ahem...I’m calm, I’m calm now... (kudos to the author who can get me this emotionally involved!) I would highly recommend this book if only to provide people to discuss it with. Someone really needs to help me through that ending before I attempt any more Emery Lee books.
November 22, 2015
The Highest Stakes is author Emery Lee’s debut novel and, quite simply put, a story of epic proportions! It’s a tale of betrayal, murder, redemption, love lost and love found, scheming, more betrayal, heroes and villains, heroines and shrews, war and peace, retribution, manipulation, love lost again, then found again, greed, humor, sorrow, twists, turns and… well… sounds a bit like a historical soap opera, doesn’t it? But I’m telling you… General Hospital was never this good!!
I've often found that in order to hold my attention, I need a story heavy on the romance, so having been told that this book isn’t really a romance at all, I hadn't felt the urge to read it. Really? Not a romance? Well, I beg to differ, because while romance is not the primary focus in this story, it’s definitely the reason for it! Yes, quite a lot of the tale is dedicated to the sport of horse racing, and the passion of all things equine, but the driving force behind this story is love, and doing whatever is needed to be with that one person who is more important to you than any other; the love of your life.
One of my very favorite things about historical novels is that wonderful feeling of leaving the present behind and being swept away to another time and place, and Emery Lee gave me that! With richly detailed descriptions of life in Georgian England and authentic period dialog, I was right there with our characters whether they were at the races, hearts pounding in anticipation of victory, or in battle fighting for their very lives, and even experiencing something as simple as that first kiss. I was there through it all and it doesn’t get any better than that.
While I do admit to skimming through most of the more detailed blood-lining and breeding techniques which took up a good bit of the early pages, what I did read of it was fascinating. And, for those of you who might be wondering, if I were to rate this story based on violence or sexuality, I’d call it PG-13. Any scenes of intimacy were only alluded to and took place behind closed doors. That said, while I normally like a little more steam in the books I read, I don't feel that this story suffered for the lack of it.
There were quite a few quotes I would have loved to use in this review, but most of them would have given away far too much of the story, so I’ve narrowed it down to just two. This first one comes after a scene I found quite heartbreaking and, like it or not, has the ring of truth to it.
"Now as to our business, sir. I have done your bidding, though it was clearly contrary to my conscience and cost me dearly. In truth, no dowry could compensate for what I have lost."And this second quote – well, I was laughing as I read it. Those of us who love our historical romance novels know that many a bride-to-be didn’t want to be. So this little exchange between mother and daughter was pretty humorous, especially the first paragraph. Maybe it was this kind of thinking that gave birth to the phrase, "God's gift to women!"
Sir Garfield pulled a fat coin purse from his pocket. "And what would you expect as recompense for your losses?"
"There is no restitution for integrity," he said bitterly.
"On the contrary, Major. Integrity always has a price. To lose or to keep; there is invariably a cost. Some just pay more dearly than others."
Lady Felicia reassured her with a pat on the hand. "My dearest daughter, though it is a sad injustice, a woman seldom weds to her own volition. The Good Lord bestowed upon males the greater reasoning and intellect, thus it is for us women to obey them."The bottom line - The Highest Stakes was a pleasure to read and I highly recommend it to any fan of historical fiction and storylines that haven’t already been done to death. If you’re like me, you want to feel as though you’re actually a part of the stories you read rather than just a curious onlooker. You need to care about the men and women and their struggles and triumphs. Well, if that's the case, I really do think you’d enjoy this story. I found my emotions all over the place, feeling sorrow one minute, joy the next, and even laughing out loud at times! But most importantly, I found myself in love with our hero and heroine, Robert and Charlotte, and cheering them on as they fought the less than favorable odds for their happily ever after.
"But what if the man is a besotted lech… or a fusty bore… or ill-visaged, bad tempered, and deformed… or stingy, cruel, and close-fisted… or all of it!" she wailed.
"Trixie, I clearly sympathize, but pray cease the histrionics. As to your apprehensions, a clever woman can learn to manage her husband, even one who is… shall we say… less than desirable."
"But, Mama, I don't want such a husband!"
"Hear me out, Beatrix," she admonished. "If your husband should be faithless, affect ignorance. If he has a predilection for strong drink, feign tolerance; if he is choleric or sullen, be long-suffering until his mood spends itself. If he be a close-fisted despot, adopt a demure address. But if he be a weak and incompetent man, count your blessings, for you need only give him the very orders you should later receive from him. Lastly and most importantly, if you have wealth and position, your marriage need not be the least incommodious, regardless of your husband's temperament."
I’m very much looking forward to Philip’s story, Fortune’s Son, and can’t wait to see if, or how, he can possibly be redeemed!
March 17, 2010
This is a very dramatic tale, reads much like a soap opera in the early days of horse racing. However, the book cover may have one thinking it is mostly about Charlotte. That is not the case.. It follows Robert and his friend Philip most of the time with very little of the limelight focusing on Charlotte who despite donning a pair of breeches and riding astride a horse, is a typical damsel in distress.
I liked the book tho. It kept me guessing. For once, I couldn't predict every turn and outcome. The summary is something like this: Robert loves Charlotte, but he comes from a "lower class" and Charlotte's uncle and guardian forbids the match. Robert attempts every trick in his book but cannot win her hand and won't dishonor her name by just running off with her. He enlists the help of his war buddy, Philip, who in turn, falls in love with the dowry of Charlotte's cousin. Well, Philip only looks out for Philip. Thus, Robert may be trusting the wrong person... and one plan after another to win his beloved Charlotte backfires. Will they ever be together?
In the midst of all this pining for each other, there is the war between George and Bonnie Prince Charlie and with both Robert and Philip being soldiers, readers see what is going on on that end. When the fellows are not fighting or trying to win their women, they are racing horses. I liked the "horsey" stuff but at times, there was WAY too much information on each horse's dam and sire and breeding background. As a reader, I just wanted it to get back to the story and didn't care less who the horse's mommy and daddy was and forgot that information by the time it reached the next page. Also, Charlotte turns out to be somewhat a disappointment to a reader that likes strong, independent heroines.
Nevertheless, an enjoyable read. I loved all the drama, outlandish bets, backstabbing friends, and shocking turnabouts. The exception being the last quarter.. too much Philip. Four stars.
I liked the book tho. It kept me guessing. For once, I couldn't predict every turn and outcome. The summary is something like this: Robert loves Charlotte, but he comes from a "lower class" and Charlotte's uncle and guardian forbids the match. Robert attempts every trick in his book but cannot win her hand and won't dishonor her name by just running off with her. He enlists the help of his war buddy, Philip, who in turn, falls in love with the dowry of Charlotte's cousin. Well, Philip only looks out for Philip. Thus, Robert may be trusting the wrong person... and one plan after another to win his beloved Charlotte backfires. Will they ever be together?
In the midst of all this pining for each other, there is the war between George and Bonnie Prince Charlie and with both Robert and Philip being soldiers, readers see what is going on on that end. When the fellows are not fighting or trying to win their women, they are racing horses. I liked the "horsey" stuff but at times, there was WAY too much information on each horse's dam and sire and breeding background. As a reader, I just wanted it to get back to the story and didn't care less who the horse's mommy and daddy was and forgot that information by the time it reached the next page. Also, Charlotte turns out to be somewhat a disappointment to a reader that likes strong, independent heroines.
Nevertheless, an enjoyable read. I loved all the drama, outlandish bets, backstabbing friends, and shocking turnabouts. The exception being the last quarter.. too much Philip. Four stars.
May 5, 2010
Let me start of by saying that when I accepted this book for review I was a little hesitant because I’m not really a horse person and have no knowledge of horse racing, but with my quest to broaden my historical fiction reading I thought I would give it a try. And, I am so glad I did!! Emery Lee’s debut novel The Highest Stakes was a really fabulous read.
Set in 18th century England, the main plot of the story is of Charlotte and Robert and their quest to be together despite Charlotte’s uncle’s disapproval. Charlotte is an orphan and being brought up in her uncle’s home, where Robert is the stable hand and they fall in love when Robert teaches Charlotte to ride. Now, that sounds like a pretty unoriginal plot, BUT that’s not all and here is where Emery Lee shines! The author throws in some twists of fate and a few surprises and you find yourself reading as fast as you can because you need to know what comes next! There are times the intricacies of either horse racing or the many horse origins can slow the story down a bit (especially if you’re not a horse person), but the author never dwells on it long and the story picks back up again. It’s apparent that the author really knows her stuff and I guess she should being a lifelong equestrian and all!
Along with the charming and sweet Charlotte and the handsome Robert, Emery includes a fun and quirky cast of characters; from the mischievious rake Philip Drake whom you can't help but love, to Charlotte's hateful uncle Garfield Wallace bent on using Charlotte as a means to better his social standing and all of them in between.
Entertaining and gripping, The Highest Stakes is a fantastic romp through the world of horse racing in Georgian England and I heartedly recommend it!
Set in 18th century England, the main plot of the story is of Charlotte and Robert and their quest to be together despite Charlotte’s uncle’s disapproval. Charlotte is an orphan and being brought up in her uncle’s home, where Robert is the stable hand and they fall in love when Robert teaches Charlotte to ride. Now, that sounds like a pretty unoriginal plot, BUT that’s not all and here is where Emery Lee shines! The author throws in some twists of fate and a few surprises and you find yourself reading as fast as you can because you need to know what comes next! There are times the intricacies of either horse racing or the many horse origins can slow the story down a bit (especially if you’re not a horse person), but the author never dwells on it long and the story picks back up again. It’s apparent that the author really knows her stuff and I guess she should being a lifelong equestrian and all!
Along with the charming and sweet Charlotte and the handsome Robert, Emery includes a fun and quirky cast of characters; from the mischievious rake Philip Drake whom you can't help but love, to Charlotte's hateful uncle Garfield Wallace bent on using Charlotte as a means to better his social standing and all of them in between.
Entertaining and gripping, The Highest Stakes is a fantastic romp through the world of horse racing in Georgian England and I heartedly recommend it!
August 2, 2010
THE HIGHEST STAKES - commentary author Emery Lee
Since THE HIGHEST STAKES' release, I have done a number of guest blogs to answer questions about my creative process, why I chose Georgian England and Colonial Virginia as my settings, and how I researched the novel. I also wrote about the history of horseracing and my own passion for equines. I would now like share some of these thoughts and add some background information on the novel itself.
It is always said that one should write one's passions. In my case, this would mean converging horses, history and romance, elements that at first glance appear very much at odds, but the combination, to me, was irresistible. I wanted to create a hero, (Robert Devington) who would overcome many obstacles to find love and happiness, with his ultimate fate hanging on a horse race.
A story of star-crossed lovers and horseracing, THE HIGHEST STAKES transports the reader to the hard-drinking, vice-ridden, horseracing world of Georgian England. Fascinating and titillating, this was an era of corruption, arranged marriages, and high stakes gambling; when racing and breeding became the obsession of the uppermost elite, and a match race might replace a duel in settling a point of honor. It was also an age in which a powerful and privileged aristocracy used an outer façade of honor and politesse to cover its multifarious sins.
My research in this endeavor was both extensive and diverse, going back to the early 18th century and the creation of the Thoroughbred itself. The horses (all progeny of the Byerley Turk, and the Darley and Godolphin Arabians) are seamlessly woven into the plot in which the success of Sir Garfield's racing stud is elemental to his schemes of social advancement, and a racing wager becomes the only pathway Devington sees to win his true love, Charlotte.
Charlotte Wallace is a young girl who is orphaned and forced to live with uncaring and socially ambitious relatives. Lonely and neglected, she seeks solace within her uncle's racing stables where she meets the young man with whom she share's what will become her lifelong passion- racehorses.
The young and ambitious Robert Devington is a lowly, but talented stable groom, who leaves his employ for the military in order to better himself in the eyes of Charlotte's uncle. After some time passes, Robert returns to claim Charlotte's hand in any way possible, ultimately leading to a racing wager that sets the plot in motion.
Through the fictional love story of Robert Devington and Charlottte Wallace, a tale of drama, danger, thwarted love, and retribution unfurls...
Enjoy the ride!
Emery Lee
www.authoremerylee.com
http://emerylee.wordpress.com
Since THE HIGHEST STAKES' release, I have done a number of guest blogs to answer questions about my creative process, why I chose Georgian England and Colonial Virginia as my settings, and how I researched the novel. I also wrote about the history of horseracing and my own passion for equines. I would now like share some of these thoughts and add some background information on the novel itself.
It is always said that one should write one's passions. In my case, this would mean converging horses, history and romance, elements that at first glance appear very much at odds, but the combination, to me, was irresistible. I wanted to create a hero, (Robert Devington) who would overcome many obstacles to find love and happiness, with his ultimate fate hanging on a horse race.
A story of star-crossed lovers and horseracing, THE HIGHEST STAKES transports the reader to the hard-drinking, vice-ridden, horseracing world of Georgian England. Fascinating and titillating, this was an era of corruption, arranged marriages, and high stakes gambling; when racing and breeding became the obsession of the uppermost elite, and a match race might replace a duel in settling a point of honor. It was also an age in which a powerful and privileged aristocracy used an outer façade of honor and politesse to cover its multifarious sins.
My research in this endeavor was both extensive and diverse, going back to the early 18th century and the creation of the Thoroughbred itself. The horses (all progeny of the Byerley Turk, and the Darley and Godolphin Arabians) are seamlessly woven into the plot in which the success of Sir Garfield's racing stud is elemental to his schemes of social advancement, and a racing wager becomes the only pathway Devington sees to win his true love, Charlotte.
Charlotte Wallace is a young girl who is orphaned and forced to live with uncaring and socially ambitious relatives. Lonely and neglected, she seeks solace within her uncle's racing stables where she meets the young man with whom she share's what will become her lifelong passion- racehorses.
The young and ambitious Robert Devington is a lowly, but talented stable groom, who leaves his employ for the military in order to better himself in the eyes of Charlotte's uncle. After some time passes, Robert returns to claim Charlotte's hand in any way possible, ultimately leading to a racing wager that sets the plot in motion.
Through the fictional love story of Robert Devington and Charlottte Wallace, a tale of drama, danger, thwarted love, and retribution unfurls...
Enjoy the ride!
Emery Lee
www.authoremerylee.com
http://emerylee.wordpress.com
December 16, 2010
"Set against the sights, sounds, and excitement of the brand new sport of thoroughbred racing. "The Highest Stakes" is a story of drama, love, and retribution in a world where pedigree is everything and fortunes can be won and lost in the blink of an eye."
"From the first day she learned to ride, Charlotte Wallace lived for the freedom that comes from tearing across the heath on one of her uncle's prized stallions. But that freeom is shattered when her uncle makes her the pawn in his bet on a high stakes horse race."
These are the cover descriptions of Emery Lee's extraordinary book, "The Highest Stakes." I'm never one to explain the story of a book, since that's something easily found on the covers or with a nod to the summaries already written. My goal as a reviewer is to tell more about the author's abilities to convey that story, and to give a personal sense of how it translates to the reader.
"The Highest Stakes," is a book that I took a risk on reading. I'm not one who knows horses. Having been completely in the dark about them, I've never grown to appreciate their history or people's attachments to them. But, when I saw Emery Lee's book, it seemed like a good time to jump in and try to see this side of things. I started reading with a jaded mind...I didn't expect to finish the book.
Surprisingly enough, I was mesmorized! Ms. Lee writes about horses, races, breeding horses, and riders as if these things were at the heart of all life. It is captivating! I learned so much about the history of horse racing. The breeding of horses and how they develop a racing horse was so interesting written from Emery's hand, and the training of a race horse became alive and almost sensual. My heart raced when the races were described!
Emery Lee is a highly articulate, intelligent writer. She has an infinite grasp of the English language of the times in which her book takes place and of the entire setting of her story. Her characters are subtle and strong. They are absorbing in their trueness and honesty, and their love of horses. There is a love story at the heart of this novel; however, it is beautifully balanced with the story of the horses as they are entwined.
This is an intelligent book. It is a book to be taken seriously. A book that will teach and thrill, I recommend it especially to those who know and love horses and English stories of the 1700's.
"From the first day she learned to ride, Charlotte Wallace lived for the freedom that comes from tearing across the heath on one of her uncle's prized stallions. But that freeom is shattered when her uncle makes her the pawn in his bet on a high stakes horse race."
These are the cover descriptions of Emery Lee's extraordinary book, "The Highest Stakes." I'm never one to explain the story of a book, since that's something easily found on the covers or with a nod to the summaries already written. My goal as a reviewer is to tell more about the author's abilities to convey that story, and to give a personal sense of how it translates to the reader.
"The Highest Stakes," is a book that I took a risk on reading. I'm not one who knows horses. Having been completely in the dark about them, I've never grown to appreciate their history or people's attachments to them. But, when I saw Emery Lee's book, it seemed like a good time to jump in and try to see this side of things. I started reading with a jaded mind...I didn't expect to finish the book.
Surprisingly enough, I was mesmorized! Ms. Lee writes about horses, races, breeding horses, and riders as if these things were at the heart of all life. It is captivating! I learned so much about the history of horse racing. The breeding of horses and how they develop a racing horse was so interesting written from Emery's hand, and the training of a race horse became alive and almost sensual. My heart raced when the races were described!
Emery Lee is a highly articulate, intelligent writer. She has an infinite grasp of the English language of the times in which her book takes place and of the entire setting of her story. Her characters are subtle and strong. They are absorbing in their trueness and honesty, and their love of horses. There is a love story at the heart of this novel; however, it is beautifully balanced with the story of the horses as they are entwined.
This is an intelligent book. It is a book to be taken seriously. A book that will teach and thrill, I recommend it especially to those who know and love horses and English stories of the 1700's.
May 16, 2010
The love of all things equine first drew me to Emery Lee’s debut novel, “The Highest Stakes.”
The author’s ability to spin a story keep me entranced between the covers of this moving historical romance. “The Highest Stakes” is set in England during the mid-18th century. At that time, horseracing was a gentleman’s sport catering to the society of nobility.
This is the story of forbidden love, greed, hatred, revenge, and retribution with a good dose of history mixed in.
The story focuses on star-crossed lovers Charlotte Wallace and Robert Devington. After being orphaned at age 13, Charlotte goes to live with her uncle, Sir Garfield Wallace, and his family. There she meets Robert, a stable boy in her uncle’s employ.
Robert teaches Charlotte to ride and their love of horses, as well as for each other, blossoms. But their love is never meant to be it seems. No matter what Robert does to prove his love and worth, Charlotte’s uncle will not hear of their union. He is willing to sacrifice Charlotte’s happiness for a better status in social standings.
Author Emery Lee takes the reader on a journey of twists and turns, of highs and lows, and love and betrayal. Ever present in the backdrop is thoroughbred horseracing. From beginning to end, the author keeps you guessing and wanting for more.
You don’t have to be a horse lover or race enthusiast to enjoy this book. The story is written in the language of 18th century England. For the reader unaccustomed to reading the language it takes a little bit to get familiar with. However, once the reader does they find it adds so much flavor to the story and puts them in that era.
From beginning to end, author Emery Lee has a blueblood winner with “The Highest Stakes.”
The author’s ability to spin a story keep me entranced between the covers of this moving historical romance. “The Highest Stakes” is set in England during the mid-18th century. At that time, horseracing was a gentleman’s sport catering to the society of nobility.
This is the story of forbidden love, greed, hatred, revenge, and retribution with a good dose of history mixed in.
The story focuses on star-crossed lovers Charlotte Wallace and Robert Devington. After being orphaned at age 13, Charlotte goes to live with her uncle, Sir Garfield Wallace, and his family. There she meets Robert, a stable boy in her uncle’s employ.
Robert teaches Charlotte to ride and their love of horses, as well as for each other, blossoms. But their love is never meant to be it seems. No matter what Robert does to prove his love and worth, Charlotte’s uncle will not hear of their union. He is willing to sacrifice Charlotte’s happiness for a better status in social standings.
Author Emery Lee takes the reader on a journey of twists and turns, of highs and lows, and love and betrayal. Ever present in the backdrop is thoroughbred horseracing. From beginning to end, the author keeps you guessing and wanting for more.
You don’t have to be a horse lover or race enthusiast to enjoy this book. The story is written in the language of 18th century England. For the reader unaccustomed to reading the language it takes a little bit to get familiar with. However, once the reader does they find it adds so much flavor to the story and puts them in that era.
From beginning to end, author Emery Lee has a blueblood winner with “The Highest Stakes.”
April 13, 2010
Taking place in the 1740s and 50s in both Europe and the American colonies, The Highest Stakes is a vastly researched novel about horse racing and love.
Robert Devington desperately wants to marry Charlotte Wallace, but her uncle and guardian forbids it because, simply, Devington is a nobody.
I admit, some of the stuff in this novel flew right over my head. I know jack about horse racing and horses – I've never been near one in my life. I enjoyed the details of the racing. It was exciting. It felt like I was there.
Devington tries everything to win Charlotte. He joins the King's army and is made a Captain and comes back, hell bent on trying anything, even a horse race to convince her uncle, but the older man is most dastardly prejudice and doesn't keep his word.
While this soap opera plays out, we have Devington's friend Major Drake. Drake is a most intriguing character. He looks out for himself, but has a bit of a conscience. Sometimes we see these two fight within him and he has to make a quick decision. I was most interested in his story, I must admit. He gets the rug pulled over his eyes a few times and is played for a fool. By the end of the book I felt sorry for him.
Anyway, back to Devington. Thanks to Drake, Devington is faced with criminal charges and is sent to the American colonies. There, he changes his name and spends years working at his revenge against his former friend.
The revenge plays out almost like a movie. It was rather an exquisitely drawn out plot.
The Highest Stakes was a great debut novel. Lots of research and effort obviously went into this book and it shows. What you get is an intriguing historical saga.
Robert Devington desperately wants to marry Charlotte Wallace, but her uncle and guardian forbids it because, simply, Devington is a nobody.
I admit, some of the stuff in this novel flew right over my head. I know jack about horse racing and horses – I've never been near one in my life. I enjoyed the details of the racing. It was exciting. It felt like I was there.
Devington tries everything to win Charlotte. He joins the King's army and is made a Captain and comes back, hell bent on trying anything, even a horse race to convince her uncle, but the older man is most dastardly prejudice and doesn't keep his word.
While this soap opera plays out, we have Devington's friend Major Drake. Drake is a most intriguing character. He looks out for himself, but has a bit of a conscience. Sometimes we see these two fight within him and he has to make a quick decision. I was most interested in his story, I must admit. He gets the rug pulled over his eyes a few times and is played for a fool. By the end of the book I felt sorry for him.
Anyway, back to Devington. Thanks to Drake, Devington is faced with criminal charges and is sent to the American colonies. There, he changes his name and spends years working at his revenge against his former friend.
The revenge plays out almost like a movie. It was rather an exquisitely drawn out plot.
The Highest Stakes was a great debut novel. Lots of research and effort obviously went into this book and it shows. What you get is an intriguing historical saga.
March 26, 2010
3.5 stars
The story begins in 1742 and is focused around the love story of Charlotte Wallace and Robert Devington. Upon the death of her parents, Charlotte was raised in the household of her Uncle, Lord Gower. Surrounded by uncaring relatives Charlotte always is more at home in her uncle’s stables and develops a close relationship with Robert, but as a groom he can never hope to wed her (although they can dream…..). Robert signs up as a soldier in King George’s army and eventually strikes up a close friendship with Captain Phillip Drake, the younger son of the Earl of Hastings. Robert brings Phillip back to meet Lord Gower when their tour of duty is up, and Phillip finds himself quite charmed by Gower’s daughter Beatrix, but that relationship brings on unforeseen circumstances.
Finding herself in a pickle, Beatrix needs a husband and Phillip’s wastrel older brother needs to get an heir or his father will disinherit him and well, after that things start to get too complicated to try and explain without spoilers. Robert ends up in the cold and in the midst of a Big Misunderstanding of as well as facing charges for insubordination and he heads for the colonies with hatred in his heart. Thus sets up an Edmond Dantès style *Retribution* wherein Robert plots for years to wreak havoc on those who done him wrong.
All in all a pretty decent story, with the added touch of background of the world of horses, horseflesh, and the sport of racing, but at times the details on all things horsy can go on a bit and might not suit for a reader with no interest in the topic. I personally am clueless when it comes to horses so I’ll leave that for other readers to judge if the author is spot on or not. While I did enjoy Robert and Charlotte’s story and I had a hard time putting this one down, I felt that things got a tad bit too melodramatic and soap opera-ish about 1/2 of the way through, but she did pull it back up to par at the end. I’d have like to have had less of the strum and drang of the marital issues and more on Robert’s life in Virginia – that was just a bit too rushed for my tastes. The *tis* and *betimes* language got a bit wearying as well, but still minor nits and a pretty solid first outing for author Emery Lee, looking forward to more. 3.5/5stars.
The story begins in 1742 and is focused around the love story of Charlotte Wallace and Robert Devington. Upon the death of her parents, Charlotte was raised in the household of her Uncle, Lord Gower. Surrounded by uncaring relatives Charlotte always is more at home in her uncle’s stables and develops a close relationship with Robert, but as a groom he can never hope to wed her (although they can dream…..). Robert signs up as a soldier in King George’s army and eventually strikes up a close friendship with Captain Phillip Drake, the younger son of the Earl of Hastings. Robert brings Phillip back to meet Lord Gower when their tour of duty is up, and Phillip finds himself quite charmed by Gower’s daughter Beatrix, but that relationship brings on unforeseen circumstances.
Finding herself in a pickle, Beatrix needs a husband and Phillip’s wastrel older brother needs to get an heir or his father will disinherit him and well, after that things start to get too complicated to try and explain without spoilers. Robert ends up in the cold and in the midst of a Big Misunderstanding of as well as facing charges for insubordination and he heads for the colonies with hatred in his heart. Thus sets up an Edmond Dantès style *Retribution* wherein Robert plots for years to wreak havoc on those who done him wrong.
All in all a pretty decent story, with the added touch of background of the world of horses, horseflesh, and the sport of racing, but at times the details on all things horsy can go on a bit and might not suit for a reader with no interest in the topic. I personally am clueless when it comes to horses so I’ll leave that for other readers to judge if the author is spot on or not. While I did enjoy Robert and Charlotte’s story and I had a hard time putting this one down, I felt that things got a tad bit too melodramatic and soap opera-ish about 1/2 of the way through, but she did pull it back up to par at the end. I’d have like to have had less of the strum and drang of the marital issues and more on Robert’s life in Virginia – that was just a bit too rushed for my tastes. The *tis* and *betimes* language got a bit wearying as well, but still minor nits and a pretty solid first outing for author Emery Lee, looking forward to more. 3.5/5stars.
April 26, 2010
Emery Lee's The Highest Stakes opens at the races in Litchfield, Staffordshire in 1742. It's at this race that we're introduced to the characters that shape the novel. The race is for untried horses - those who have yet to win a race. Sir Garfield Wallace, a merchant who recently rose to the gentry, and an avid turf follower entered the gray mare White Rose ("Rosie") in the first race. But on the day of the race, the Wallaces are running late and the jockey, Sir Garfield's son Charles won't make it in time. The race is limited to gentlemen jockeys: no professional jockeys are allowed -- the horses must be ridden by the owner or a member of his family. Robert Devington who has worked for Sir Garfield as a trainer, jockey, and all around problem solver decides to take a dangerous risk and claims a relationship to the Wallace family in order to keep Rosie from forfeiting the race. Devington handles Rosie brilliantly though he wins the Wallaces considerable status, he finds himself shut out once again.
Though much in love with Charlotte Wallace, Sir Garfield's niece, Robert decides that the best way to win her hand is to break away from the Wallaces and to make his own fortune. Robert enlists in the King's Horse. Robert Devington proves his mettle and somehow Robert's commanding officer, Captain Drake, becomes Robert's mentor and closest friend.
Robert and Drake find themselves closely allied as they woo Sir Garfield's niece and daughter respectively. But romance, intrigue, and social ambition keep the lovers apart -- and make The Highest Stakes a fascinating and unusual read.
In The Highest Stakes, the horse racing and breeding are more than a backdrop for the action and romance. It's the horses and those that breed, race and love them that give The Highest Stakes its unique and strong charm. I've loved horses and riding since I was young, but I think most animal lovers and lovers of historical fiction will find The Highest Stakes to be an engrossing and satisfying read.
ISBN-10: 1402236425 - Paperback $15.99
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; 1 edition (April 1, 2010), 560 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
Though much in love with Charlotte Wallace, Sir Garfield's niece, Robert decides that the best way to win her hand is to break away from the Wallaces and to make his own fortune. Robert enlists in the King's Horse. Robert Devington proves his mettle and somehow Robert's commanding officer, Captain Drake, becomes Robert's mentor and closest friend.
Robert and Drake find themselves closely allied as they woo Sir Garfield's niece and daughter respectively. But romance, intrigue, and social ambition keep the lovers apart -- and make The Highest Stakes a fascinating and unusual read.
In The Highest Stakes, the horse racing and breeding are more than a backdrop for the action and romance. It's the horses and those that breed, race and love them that give The Highest Stakes its unique and strong charm. I've loved horses and riding since I was young, but I think most animal lovers and lovers of historical fiction will find The Highest Stakes to be an engrossing and satisfying read.
ISBN-10: 1402236425 - Paperback $15.99
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; 1 edition (April 1, 2010), 560 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2010
THE HIGHEST STAKES – Review by Shelly
Although I am not a big book reader, particularly in a literal sense (and this is a very big book) I am a lifelong lover of all things equine. The horse racing alone gave this novel enough mystique for me to pick it up, and although it was a big investment of my time to read, it was absolutely worth it!
I was totally engrossed by the historical aspects of this book from an equine perspective. The author fills the pages with so many fascinating facts and details about 18th century horse racing, training and breeding practices.
As to the love story of Robert and Charlotte - although I’ve never been one for sappiness and detest romance novels, the relationship between Robert and Charlotte was so real to me it was almost tangible. Their was true love born of a shared passion for horses and each other. I rejoiced every time it looked like they would finally be together to follow their shared dream, and was furious every time some scoundrel or twist of fate would dash their dreams to pieces.
And sooo much treachery!! I couldn’t put it down! The unexpected plot twists and outright villainy in this book keep me turning the pages well into the night.
For horse lovers – this book surely deserves five stars.
Although I am not a big book reader, particularly in a literal sense (and this is a very big book) I am a lifelong lover of all things equine. The horse racing alone gave this novel enough mystique for me to pick it up, and although it was a big investment of my time to read, it was absolutely worth it!
I was totally engrossed by the historical aspects of this book from an equine perspective. The author fills the pages with so many fascinating facts and details about 18th century horse racing, training and breeding practices.
As to the love story of Robert and Charlotte - although I’ve never been one for sappiness and detest romance novels, the relationship between Robert and Charlotte was so real to me it was almost tangible. Their was true love born of a shared passion for horses and each other. I rejoiced every time it looked like they would finally be together to follow their shared dream, and was furious every time some scoundrel or twist of fate would dash their dreams to pieces.
And sooo much treachery!! I couldn’t put it down! The unexpected plot twists and outright villainy in this book keep me turning the pages well into the night.
For horse lovers – this book surely deserves five stars.
April 14, 2010
Heres is the link for my review:
http://web.me.com/quirion/Bookaddict/...
http://web.me.com/quirion/Bookaddict/...
July 9, 2011
Free Kindle download — something I've had for a long while but only recently took up reading because I saw a favorable review of it on a blog. I'm actually vacillating between giving it three stars or four, but I'll go with four because I'm feeling generous today.
First, this is a historical romance ... with horses!
And actually, the horses figure pretty heavily in this book. The main characters are really into racing them, breeding them, training them, riding them, buying and selling them, whatever. They love horses, and they're really good with them.
That by itself makes this a not-so-conventional romance. It isn't so much the romance that provides all the highs and lows in this book; the climax — or climaxes, plural — are mostly found in the horse races and in the machinations of all the big shots who deal in horses, and there are a ton of machinations.
The heroine's uncle — oh, my God, what a total jerk! — is the ideal antagonist; he's the guy you love to hate. He does everything he can to drive a wedge between the hero and the heroine, who very clearly belong together not only for their love for one another but for their mutual love of horses and complementary brilliance at training and breeding them.
Then there's the hero's best friend. Gah! With friends like that, who needs enemies? This guy is so self-serving that the outcome of all his actions and decisions become a massive gray area, at times really beneficial to the hero and his goals, at times really completely detrimental.
Meanwhile, the hero and the heroine keep fighting to stay together and to find a way to truly belong to one another, and they just keep being — curses — foiled again!
There was a point where it got a little tiring and frustrating to see them torn apart yet again, such that this book really strained at being categorized a romance in my poor little head. In a conventional romance, the author never would have delayed that "together at last!" moment for so long and after so many trials. And the hero just plain pissed me off for missing that final opportunity to get with the heroine by being a total jealous fool. Because of his foolish action there, the delay turned into years. YEARS! Were this a conventional romance, I might have thrown my Kindle against the wall for that dream deferred.
So yes, by the time they did get together, they're older and wiser, no longer as idealistic in their romance, no longer really all that fresh and hopeful. Seriously ... not quite as satisfying, which is why I wanted to give it a three. It doesn't have that standard story arc of a traditional romance. It really is something else.
But if you're NOT into the romance genre that much and like a little bit of unpredictability in your books and a lot of intrigue, a lot of back and forth between the protagonists and antagonists, and on top of that you like history and horses, then this book is definitely for you.
First, this is a historical romance ... with horses!
And actually, the horses figure pretty heavily in this book. The main characters are really into racing them, breeding them, training them, riding them, buying and selling them, whatever. They love horses, and they're really good with them.
That by itself makes this a not-so-conventional romance. It isn't so much the romance that provides all the highs and lows in this book; the climax — or climaxes, plural — are mostly found in the horse races and in the machinations of all the big shots who deal in horses, and there are a ton of machinations.
The heroine's uncle — oh, my God, what a total jerk! — is the ideal antagonist; he's the guy you love to hate. He does everything he can to drive a wedge between the hero and the heroine, who very clearly belong together not only for their love for one another but for their mutual love of horses and complementary brilliance at training and breeding them.
Then there's the hero's best friend. Gah! With friends like that, who needs enemies? This guy is so self-serving that the outcome of all his actions and decisions become a massive gray area, at times really beneficial to the hero and his goals, at times really completely detrimental.
Meanwhile, the hero and the heroine keep fighting to stay together and to find a way to truly belong to one another, and they just keep being — curses — foiled again!
There was a point where it got a little tiring and frustrating to see them torn apart yet again, such that this book really strained at being categorized a romance in my poor little head. In a conventional romance, the author never would have delayed that "together at last!" moment for so long and after so many trials. And the hero just plain pissed me off for missing that final opportunity to get with the heroine by being a total jealous fool. Because of his foolish action there, the delay turned into years. YEARS! Were this a conventional romance, I might have thrown my Kindle against the wall for that dream deferred.
So yes, by the time they did get together, they're older and wiser, no longer as idealistic in their romance, no longer really all that fresh and hopeful. Seriously ... not quite as satisfying, which is why I wanted to give it a three. It doesn't have that standard story arc of a traditional romance. It really is something else.
But if you're NOT into the romance genre that much and like a little bit of unpredictability in your books and a lot of intrigue, a lot of back and forth between the protagonists and antagonists, and on top of that you like history and horses, then this book is definitely for you.
October 24, 2017
Highest Stakes is a historical novel set in Georgian England. It is not a romance novel, although a romance is central to the story. It is about greed and ambition, class and the lack of choice for women and commoners. It's about the lucrative and vicious business of horse-breeding and racing, soldiering in the Napoleonic War, and characters attempting to break out of their social status.
I really enjoy historical fiction that doesn't focus on famous people and events because the outcome isn't pre-determined. This is one of those. It submerges you in the time period and makes you feel the struggles of people living there. It doesn't modernize the characters' choices, but is realistic about what happens. It has really great historical detail, making you feel like you're there. I love the details about raising, racing and caring for horses. And the war scenes were not tedious at all.
The reason I only gave it 4 stars is that it reached a point when I realized that nothing was going right for anyone I cared about in the story. There were truly despicable characters who were very well-drawn and I wanted them to come to serious harm. So I loved it because the author was able to engage my emotions, but the emotions evoked were not happy ones. I wish there had been moments of stolen happiness for the protagonists - that they could have had more time together at points along the way. They do spend most of their time apart. This is truly not about their relationship, but about the hope/hopelessness of their love.
There was a point towards the end when I had no idea how in the world everything could be resolved, and I feared it was impossible. The ending is satisfying except for the fact that it's not longer - a little more of that hard-earned happy ending would have been nice.
I really enjoy historical fiction that doesn't focus on famous people and events because the outcome isn't pre-determined. This is one of those. It submerges you in the time period and makes you feel the struggles of people living there. It doesn't modernize the characters' choices, but is realistic about what happens. It has really great historical detail, making you feel like you're there. I love the details about raising, racing and caring for horses. And the war scenes were not tedious at all.
The reason I only gave it 4 stars is that it reached a point when I realized that nothing was going right for anyone I cared about in the story. There were truly despicable characters who were very well-drawn and I wanted them to come to serious harm. So I loved it because the author was able to engage my emotions, but the emotions evoked were not happy ones. I wish there had been moments of stolen happiness for the protagonists - that they could have had more time together at points along the way. They do spend most of their time apart. This is truly not about their relationship, but about the hope/hopelessness of their love.
There was a point towards the end when I had no idea how in the world everything could be resolved, and I feared it was impossible. The ending is satisfying except for the fact that it's not longer - a little more of that hard-earned happy ending would have been nice.
April 9, 2010
This debut novel by life-long history buff, equestrian, and romantic, Emery Lee, tells the tale of horseracing, war and unrequited love in 18th century England and Colonial Virginia. It takes place from 1742 until 1751 and tells the well researched story of lowly stable hands to upper class Lords and Ladies. This tale is full of intrigue, suspense and the ins and outs of horseracing which is very competitive amongst the upper classes in England and most anyone in colonial Virginia. Fortunes are won and lost and lives can be destroyed because of the losses. Marriages are arranged not for love but for horses and duels are still fought and honor is lost. There are a few chapters devoted to war with the French and there is mention of the bloodbath that was Culloden but it is not the main focus of the story. The characters are very well written and details of the time period are true to form. Love can turn to hate in a blink of an eye, misunderstandings abound and retribution is sought. Racing and breeding the perfect horse with the best of blood lines can be obsessive. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and hope that there will be a sequel... hint hint. If you are a fan of historical fiction involving horseracing then you should read this book. Romance and history at it's best. Besides that the cover is great. This book was released April 1st. 2010 by Sourcebooks who provided my review ARC.
April 3, 2010
What first piqued my interest in THE HIGHEST STAKES was the back cover blurb about the origins of Throroughbred racing and pedigrees, but the book proved to be so much more than a bland history of horseracing!
The book opens with a horse race described in such blow-by-blow detail, that I felt like an active participant. The suspense became so heightened I felt I had placed actual stakes on the race in which Robert Devington rode.
I was then captivated by the heartrending story between Robert, a lowly stable groom and Charlotte, the orphaned niece of ambitious relatives, and the tenacity of this relationship against all odds.
Each time it appears Robert and Charlotte will be together, something unexpected and drastic follows these star-crossed lovers. Ruthlessness and villainy seem always to prevail.
Having little prior knowledge of the Georgian era, I was fascinated by the details of the nobility, their lifestyles, and pride in breeding.
The excitement of the story kept me on the edge of my seat for hundreds of pages in a sitting. I would highly recommend the book to anyone interested in history, horses and true love. FIVE STARS
The book opens with a horse race described in such blow-by-blow detail, that I felt like an active participant. The suspense became so heightened I felt I had placed actual stakes on the race in which Robert Devington rode.
I was then captivated by the heartrending story between Robert, a lowly stable groom and Charlotte, the orphaned niece of ambitious relatives, and the tenacity of this relationship against all odds.
Each time it appears Robert and Charlotte will be together, something unexpected and drastic follows these star-crossed lovers. Ruthlessness and villainy seem always to prevail.
Having little prior knowledge of the Georgian era, I was fascinated by the details of the nobility, their lifestyles, and pride in breeding.
The excitement of the story kept me on the edge of my seat for hundreds of pages in a sitting. I would highly recommend the book to anyone interested in history, horses and true love. FIVE STARS
March 29, 2010
3.5 stars
Read my full review on my blog: Book Review of The Highest Stakes
With The Highest Stakes, Emery Lee has given the reader a highly detailed and researched plot. While reading this novel, there was never a time when I knew what was going to happen next. Unexpected twists kept you guessing until the very last page. There are just a couple small issues I had with the book, the first being the times when writing became a little dry with the abundant equestrian detail. The detail of the horse racing was great, it was just the history and lineage of horses that became a little overdone. That being said, any of the dry moments were quickly forgotten when the intricate plot became intense. Also, I felt the end was a little abrupt. I did love the outcome, but after such a long and intense journey to reach happiness, the ending was pale in comparison. Overall, this is an enjoyable and intriguing read that will keep the readers attention through it's 500+ pages.
Read my full review on my blog: Book Review of The Highest Stakes
With The Highest Stakes, Emery Lee has given the reader a highly detailed and researched plot. While reading this novel, there was never a time when I knew what was going to happen next. Unexpected twists kept you guessing until the very last page. There are just a couple small issues I had with the book, the first being the times when writing became a little dry with the abundant equestrian detail. The detail of the horse racing was great, it was just the history and lineage of horses that became a little overdone. That being said, any of the dry moments were quickly forgotten when the intricate plot became intense. Also, I felt the end was a little abrupt. I did love the outcome, but after such a long and intense journey to reach happiness, the ending was pale in comparison. Overall, this is an enjoyable and intriguing read that will keep the readers attention through it's 500+ pages.
April 20, 2010
Read my review of The Highest Stakes and enter to win the ARC:
http://calicocritic.blogspot.com/2010...
Deadline for the giveaway is May 1st, 2010.
http://calicocritic.blogspot.com/2010...
Deadline for the giveaway is May 1st, 2010.
dnf-bitches
June 15, 2013Couldn't get past the yammering about horse ancestry and the boring love story. Apparently lots of stuff happens later in this book, but I am not going to find out.
October 8, 2014
Highest Stakes is an historical fiction novel with some very strong romantic elements. It was a very interesting mix of romance, class struggle, friendships, and (as you can tell from the cover) horse racing. All these aspects mix in the form of Robert and his pursuit of his employer's daughter, Charlotte. When her guardians refuse to allow him to marry her, he sets off to prove he is more than just a worker - he joins the King's Horse. This is where he befriends Drake, the second son of an Earl. The lives of these three people intertwine in an amazing way. The way their individual stories combined to create this world far exceeded my expectations.
While Robert's story seems to be the main focus, we get to experience life from the point of view of all three characters. It gives enlightenment as to their actions, which at times seems to run counter to logic, but you come to understand their innermost desires and code by watching them make the tough decisions. A lot of these decisions center around the popular sport of horse racing - of which Robert is an expert in both breeding and riding. In fact, he bets many life altering decisions on the outcome of horse races, including being able to wed the love of his life, Charlotte.
Having worked at a stable when I was in junior high and loving horses my whole life, I thoroughly enjoyed the horse aspect of the story. A few of the horses almost become main characters, especially Mars and Amoret, and you really get to know their personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. I enjoyed their part of the story just as much as I enjoyed the romance and the people.
The plot twists and turns a lot so don't ever be surprised at anything that happens. In the end there is a bit of a happily ever after - for at least some people. You can tell there is more to the story and book two is the continuation of the story of this group of people, their friends and family.
- See more at: http://www.bittenbyromance.com/2014/1...
While Robert's story seems to be the main focus, we get to experience life from the point of view of all three characters. It gives enlightenment as to their actions, which at times seems to run counter to logic, but you come to understand their innermost desires and code by watching them make the tough decisions. A lot of these decisions center around the popular sport of horse racing - of which Robert is an expert in both breeding and riding. In fact, he bets many life altering decisions on the outcome of horse races, including being able to wed the love of his life, Charlotte.
Having worked at a stable when I was in junior high and loving horses my whole life, I thoroughly enjoyed the horse aspect of the story. A few of the horses almost become main characters, especially Mars and Amoret, and you really get to know their personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. I enjoyed their part of the story just as much as I enjoyed the romance and the people.
The plot twists and turns a lot so don't ever be surprised at anything that happens. In the end there is a bit of a happily ever after - for at least some people. You can tell there is more to the story and book two is the continuation of the story of this group of people, their friends and family.
- See more at: http://www.bittenbyromance.com/2014/1...
August 8, 2010
When I first picked up “The Highest Stakes” it was with great trepidation that I began reading. Considering I read and write Young Adult fiction, the sheer weight of the book sent me running in the other direction. Oh, and not to mention the fact that I know NOTHING about horses, old England, or racing. However, I’d seen such high praise about the book I decided to give it a try.
With limited time I planned to read fifty pages a day. By day two I’d completed the book. There’s nothing like starting a book with meager expectations and being blown away by the end.
The pace forced me to turn the pages, the characters wouldn’t let me put the book down, and the storyline tugged at my heart. Twists, turns, forbidden love, and danger filled all 500 and something pages. “The Highest Stakes” is a must read and not just for lovers of historical romance or horse enthusiasts. It’s a book for everyone who enjoys a fantastic read.
Tamara
www.tamaradhanson.com
With limited time I planned to read fifty pages a day. By day two I’d completed the book. There’s nothing like starting a book with meager expectations and being blown away by the end.
The pace forced me to turn the pages, the characters wouldn’t let me put the book down, and the storyline tugged at my heart. Twists, turns, forbidden love, and danger filled all 500 and something pages. “The Highest Stakes” is a must read and not just for lovers of historical romance or horse enthusiasts. It’s a book for everyone who enjoys a fantastic read.
Tamara
www.tamaradhanson.com
May 18, 2012
This book had a lot of potential and it had a lot of interesting detail but when it was time for everything to start coming together, it sucked. The story went in too many directions and there wasn't a satisfying conclusion (it seemed a little abrupt IMHO). It did drag when talking about horses (but the detail was great if you care about such a thing). The Drake family saga was annoyingly intertwined with Charlotte and Robert and I didn't like the flipflopping of brides. The fight between Drake and Robert was pointless and ruined a friendship, Charles shooting Drake's brother was out of nowhere and the marriage between Charlotte and Drake was pointless except to get Charlotte out of her terrible uncle's house. I wish the author would have taken more time with the ending it seemed after Robert and Drake's fight, she kind of gave up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2013
This was cute but not sure why its been heaped with all of the superlatives. It was better than your average garden variety Harlequin romance but the characters while likable, were predictable, as was the plot. It was very tedious in several places and I found myself fast forwarding through quite a bit. I am hugely impressed that this was a first book and I expect we'll hear more from this author.
August 3, 2010
I really enjoyed this one...the Georgian voices and the beautiful horses are made this a really engaging read... And it turns out that there are two romances that serve as a backbone for the book, not just one! I love romance...I recommend this one...
September 17, 2010
Thank you goodreads for sending this book to me. I enjoy horse racing and reading the excerps was very enlightening. The three main characters in the book were well developed and kept you turning the pages to the end. Anyone who enjoys historical fiction will be happy they picked up this read.
November 19, 2010
I really loved this book and recommend it to everyone. Great characters. Amazing setting and time period. Romance, intrigue. I really can't say enough good things about this book. I can't wait for the next one by Emery Lee.
Read
July 11, 2010Written in combined Jane Austin and modern style, this novel starts out somewhat awkwardly but persevere like the race horse and you will find yourself in for quite a ride.
April 1, 2011
Thought the ending was too abrupt but a good read!
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