What do you think?
Rate this book
O Rei do Castelo
Dallas Lawson was trained to follow in her father's footsteps restoring old paintings but when he dies she's left at a crossroads - take a position as governess, take charity from relatives or try to continue the career she's trained for in a man's world. A commission comes in for her father from the Comté de la Talle of Chateaux Galliard and she accepts, although she "forgets" to mention her father is dead and she's coming in his place, much to the chagrin of everyone at the Chateaux.
Dallas Lawson came alone to the legend-haunted chateau, the castle of the notorious Comte de la Talle, deep in the wine country of France. When she set eyes on the handsome Comte, she knew she would never leave willingly. What she didn't know was that she might never leave ...
alive.
Dallas Lawson came alone to the legend-haunted chateau, the castle of the notorious Comte de la Talle, deep in the wine country of France. When she set eyes on the handsome Comte, she knew she would never leave willingly. What she didn't know was that she might never leave ...
alive.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1964
26 people are currently reading
1350 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Holt
372 books1,375 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Eleanor Alice Burford, Mrs. George Percival Hibbert was a British author of about 200 historical novels, most of them under the pen name Jean Plaidy which had sold 14 million copies by the time of her death. She chose to use various names because of the differences in subject matter between her books; the best-known, apart from Plaidy, are Victoria Holt (56 million) and Philippa Carr (3 million). Lesser known were the novels Hibbert published under her maiden name Eleanor Burford, or the pseudonyms of Elbur Ford, Kathleen Kellow and Ellalice Tate. Many of her readers under one penname never suspected her other identities.
-Wikipedia
Eleanor Alice Burford, Mrs. George Percival Hibbert was a British author of about 200 historical novels, most of them under the pen name Jean Plaidy which had sold 14 million copies by the time of her death. She chose to use various names because of the differences in subject matter between her books; the best-known, apart from Plaidy, are Victoria Holt (56 million) and Philippa Carr (3 million). Lesser known were the novels Hibbert published under her maiden name Eleanor Burford, or the pseudonyms of Elbur Ford, Kathleen Kellow and Ellalice Tate. Many of her readers under one penname never suspected her other identities.
-Wikipedia
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
December 8, 2012
3.5 rounded up to 4
This was a good book but didn't turn out to be the nail biter that some of Holt's other stories were for me. Maybe it would have if it was the first, but now I know her style.
This one was about an art restorer coming in her deceased father's place without a head's up to the Ol' Comte. He's dark and dangerous and probably murdered his wife but of course she falls in love with him. There's a cousin who is to be his heir who gets married off to the H's mistress so you get all that spiteful OW goodness with this one. There's also the handsome neighbor and a scissor weilding daughter with their own issues that spices up the pot.
The setting is a huge, creepy old castle, complete with a dungeon and trap door where many an unsuspecting peasant met their doom. If the place isn't haunted, it should be.
For some gossipy non-gothic spoilers...The H in this story is a manwhore (he uses the word "promiscuous" so no denial there), and doesn't promise he'll forever leave his old ways behind him. Pretty interesting concept, especially since he said it Pretty scary, huh?
If you like all that dark and creepy stuff mixed in with your romance, then you might like this one. Not her very best but still pretty good.
This was a good book but didn't turn out to be the nail biter that some of Holt's other stories were for me. Maybe it would have if it was the first, but now I know her style.
This one was about an art restorer coming in her deceased father's place without a head's up to the Ol' Comte. He's dark and dangerous and probably murdered his wife but of course she falls in love with him. There's a cousin who is to be his heir who gets married off to the H's mistress so you get all that spiteful OW goodness with this one. There's also the handsome neighbor and a scissor weilding daughter with their own issues that spices up the pot.
The setting is a huge, creepy old castle, complete with a dungeon and trap door where many an unsuspecting peasant met their doom. If the place isn't haunted, it should be.
For some gossipy non-gothic spoilers...The H in this story is a manwhore (he uses the word "promiscuous" so no denial there), and doesn't promise he'll forever leave his old ways behind him. Pretty interesting concept, especially since he said it Pretty scary, huh?
If you like all that dark and creepy stuff mixed in with your romance, then you might like this one. Not her very best but still pretty good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2018
I was reading Victoria Holt’s description of Dallas Lawson’s first glimpse of Chateau Gaillard when I was struck by this passage:
“There are occasions in life when reality is more exciting, more enchanting than the picture the imagination has supplied – but they are rare; and when they come they should be savored to the full.”
Admittedly, these are the musings of a fictional character, the product of Holt’s creative writing talents. But even so, I couldn’t help but reflect on how true this statement is, or at least true in part for me. As soon as I read the statement I paused and reflected on those occasions when the “reality” was better than I could have “imagined.” I’ll agree with Holt’s character that this does indeed occur, but I’ll have to disagree with her assertion that these experiences are rare.
Within minutes I’d thought of a list of “real life” experiences that were more exciting and more enchanting than I’d previously imagined. Here are a few I came up with:
Hiking the inspiringly scenic Johnston’s Canyon trail in Banff National Park.
Experiencing the visually breathtaking “Alice in Wonderland” Ride at Disneyland.
The youthful awakenings I experienced when I first read “Great Expectations” as a teenager.
That summer of ‘77 when I first saw “Star Wars” leaving the theater an awestruck 10 year old.
The first time I listened to The Thompson Twins ‘84 album “Into the Gap.”
The first time I kissed the woman who would later become my wife.
The first (and second) time I saw Gwen Stefani in concert - witnessing performing excellence.
The first time I heard a recording of RFK’s “MLK” Indianapolis speech – moved beyond belief.
The first time I held each of my sons in my arms – when it dawned on me I was their dad.
Witnessing Maria Sharapova’s spellbinding run to win the ladies singles at the ‘08 Aussie Open.
Seeing the magnificent Garden Island of Kauai for the very first time.
It was the speed by which I mentally amassed this list that I began to appreciate how many of these “beyond expectation” experiences I’ve had. I suspect that this may be true for most of us. But maybe the real value in Miss Lawson’s statement is not in how “often” reality exceeds “imagination” but how well we remember each of these occasions. Perhaps they might not be so “rare” if we got better at the remembering part.
It is with this in mind that I ask myself how the reality of reading “The King of the Castle” compared with what I’d imagined it might be. Here’s what I have to say about that:
Firstly, the fact that the main setting is a chateau in Wine country France is easy to discover, since we’re told this in the back cover synopsis. Knowing this, I was anticipating a “vitalization” of the ambiance by way of architectural descriptions of the chateau. In my opinion, Victoria Holt outdid herself on this count. Here were a couple of wonderful examples of this that really stood out for me:
“The aspect was purely medieval; and the solid buttresses and towers gave an air of having been built for defense. A fortress surely. As my eyes went from the keep overlooking the drawbridge, to the moat – dry, I caught a glimpse of rich green grass growing there. Excitement gripped me as I gazed up at the corbeled parapet supported by numerous machicolations about the outer façade.”
And then there was this exquisite description of part of the chateau’s interior:
“A clock with carved cupid posed above its face stood on the mantelpiece, and on either side of it were two delicately colored Sevres vases. The chairs were upholstered in tapestry and their framework was decorated with flowers and scrolls.”
The imagery of the chateau’s exterior, especially the locations of the machicolations, had me imagining the family defending the chateau under attack, the family fighting back the marauders by firing arrows, then perhaps even pouring hot oil through the machicolations.
The description of the room had me imagining one of the Comte’s aristocratic descendants standing among other members of the aristocracy, discussing world affairs or perhaps even an audience with a Marquis or even a Duke.
I always appreciate when authors add sufficient detail so I can visualize the surrounding the characters find themselves in. Victoria Holt did a superb job of this!
Another highpoint of the early part of this story was the way Miss Dallas Lawson’s “mission” was presented to the reader. The premise was unique and appealing. Basically, Dallas worked with her father in his restoration business, where he specialized in repairing fine art and renovation of medieval architecture. After a brief stay in art school, Dallas’s father convinced her that she would learn so much more by quitting school and apprenticing under his direct guidance.
It turned out that Dallas had a natural ability for the work, and as a result, her father turned over much of the painting restoration assignments to Dallas, while he focused on the architectural work for those clients.
One day a letter arrived from the Comte de la Talle of the Gaillard Chateau. The Comte informed Dallas’s father that he was in possession of a collection of fine paintings which required restoration. Could Mr. Lawson come to the chateau, estimate what work was necessary, and if satisfactory arrangement could be reached, stay until completed?
Her father was delighted with the proposed project and informed Dallas that if he successfully landed the job, he would have her join him to stay at the chateau until the work was finished. Unfortunately, another letter soon followed, in which the Comte informed Dallas’s father that the project would have to be delayed and that he would be in touch when he was ready.
Two years after the letter, Dallas’s’ father passed away and shortly after, another letter arrived from the Comte in which he said he was now ready to reengage Mr. Lawson in the project. By this point Dallas was a skilled restorer of paintings with years of experience. Despite her achievements, Dallas feared that she would more than likely be dismissed as a restoration candidate for the chateau job if the Comte were to discover it was her alone, and not her father, offering the services. It was with this in mind that Dallas decides to simply show up at the chateau, rather than writing the Comte in advance. She knew she was qualified and thought her appearance might give her a better chance than would an engagement through written correspondence.
I really liked this plot point because it showed that this character was willing to stand up to any discrimination that may have come to her. She is determined to show the Comte that she is capable and she is passionate about her work. I thought that this premise was excellent and I knew it would present unique challenges to our protagonist. This is always good news for a story.
Another part I enjoyed was the scene of Dallas’s first “interview” at the chateau. The scene and dialogue were well written, witty and entertaining. This was especially true when Dallas learns that she’s being interviewed not by the great Comte himself, but by his young cousin Phillipe de la Talle.
The conversation itself was “tactically elegant”, like a conversational form of fencing.
In the following dialogue, Phillipe has learned that Mr. Dawson has passed away and that this young lady (about his age coincidentally) is claiming that she is qualified to do the restoration work of his uncle’s collection of priceless art. While Dallas is asserting herself, the Comte’s nephew is still reeling from the fact that a young woman has appeared instead of Mr. Lawson.
“Did you think, Mademoiselle Lawson, that had you explained that your father was dead we should have declined your services?”
Dallas replies:
“I believe that your object was to have the pictures restored and was under the impression that it was the work which was important, not the sex of the restorer.”
Phillipe’s brow furrows as it appears he’s trying to make a decision.
“It seems strange that you did not write to tell us.” He says, pressing the issue.
Dallas rises to her feet, striding haughtily toward the door.
“One moment Mademoiselle” Phillipe calls out, then continues in a softer tone:
“You see, you have placed yourself in a very awkward situation” he begins to explain.
“I did not think that my credentials would be slighted without scrutiny. I have never worked before in France and was unprepared for such a reception.”
To use a fencing term, this was a good “thrust” by Dallas. Philippe rose to it.
“Mademoiselle, I assure you, you will be treated as courteously in France as anywhere else.” Phillipe pauses, then went on…
“You spoke of credentials.”
Dallas begins retrieving the letters from her attaché.
“I have recommendations from people who are very pleased with my work…in England. I have worked in some of our great houses and have been entrusted with masterpieces…but if you’re not interested…”
He holds the letters.
“That is not true, Mademoiselle…I am interested” Phillipe replies.
This conversation seemed to reinforce the idea that Dallas hails from the “impoverished gentry.” In this way, she’s a woman completely alone, not fitting in with the servants, nor is she of the class to enjoy the comforts, security and associations of the wealthy families. But she does possess sufficient dignity and comports herself with adequate poise and confidence as to catch the attention of the Comte’s cousin.
In my opinion, this is a shining example of how to “show” the reader the context of the situation as opposed to “telling us.”
“The King of the Castle” is a novel I read with great enthusiasm. The enigmatic teen daughter of the Comte, the deceptively provincial grape growing families, and the incredible way in which Victoria Holt shows us a love, so gradually building. History reignited through the restoration of paintings, some of which are in plain view and some of which are hidden, daring the artisan to try to find and unveil them.
As an expert in the restoration of fine paintings, our character Dallas is able to spend an extended amount of time in the “company” of the great painters in history: Nicolas Poussin, Claude Lorrain and Jean-Antoine Watteau to name a few. She was able to immerse herself in the masterpieces of fine art.
In this way, as I read “The King of the Castle” I felt a bond with Holt’s protagonist. Indeed, I was reading a masterpiece of the Gothic Romance genre!
“There are occasions in life when reality is more exciting, more enchanting than the picture the imagination has supplied – but they are rare; and when they come they should be savored to the full.”
Admittedly, these are the musings of a fictional character, the product of Holt’s creative writing talents. But even so, I couldn’t help but reflect on how true this statement is, or at least true in part for me. As soon as I read the statement I paused and reflected on those occasions when the “reality” was better than I could have “imagined.” I’ll agree with Holt’s character that this does indeed occur, but I’ll have to disagree with her assertion that these experiences are rare.
Within minutes I’d thought of a list of “real life” experiences that were more exciting and more enchanting than I’d previously imagined. Here are a few I came up with:
Hiking the inspiringly scenic Johnston’s Canyon trail in Banff National Park.
Experiencing the visually breathtaking “Alice in Wonderland” Ride at Disneyland.
The youthful awakenings I experienced when I first read “Great Expectations” as a teenager.
That summer of ‘77 when I first saw “Star Wars” leaving the theater an awestruck 10 year old.
The first time I listened to The Thompson Twins ‘84 album “Into the Gap.”
The first time I kissed the woman who would later become my wife.
The first (and second) time I saw Gwen Stefani in concert - witnessing performing excellence.
The first time I heard a recording of RFK’s “MLK” Indianapolis speech – moved beyond belief.
The first time I held each of my sons in my arms – when it dawned on me I was their dad.
Witnessing Maria Sharapova’s spellbinding run to win the ladies singles at the ‘08 Aussie Open.
Seeing the magnificent Garden Island of Kauai for the very first time.
It was the speed by which I mentally amassed this list that I began to appreciate how many of these “beyond expectation” experiences I’ve had. I suspect that this may be true for most of us. But maybe the real value in Miss Lawson’s statement is not in how “often” reality exceeds “imagination” but how well we remember each of these occasions. Perhaps they might not be so “rare” if we got better at the remembering part.
It is with this in mind that I ask myself how the reality of reading “The King of the Castle” compared with what I’d imagined it might be. Here’s what I have to say about that:
Firstly, the fact that the main setting is a chateau in Wine country France is easy to discover, since we’re told this in the back cover synopsis. Knowing this, I was anticipating a “vitalization” of the ambiance by way of architectural descriptions of the chateau. In my opinion, Victoria Holt outdid herself on this count. Here were a couple of wonderful examples of this that really stood out for me:
“The aspect was purely medieval; and the solid buttresses and towers gave an air of having been built for defense. A fortress surely. As my eyes went from the keep overlooking the drawbridge, to the moat – dry, I caught a glimpse of rich green grass growing there. Excitement gripped me as I gazed up at the corbeled parapet supported by numerous machicolations about the outer façade.”
And then there was this exquisite description of part of the chateau’s interior:
“A clock with carved cupid posed above its face stood on the mantelpiece, and on either side of it were two delicately colored Sevres vases. The chairs were upholstered in tapestry and their framework was decorated with flowers and scrolls.”
The imagery of the chateau’s exterior, especially the locations of the machicolations, had me imagining the family defending the chateau under attack, the family fighting back the marauders by firing arrows, then perhaps even pouring hot oil through the machicolations.
The description of the room had me imagining one of the Comte’s aristocratic descendants standing among other members of the aristocracy, discussing world affairs or perhaps even an audience with a Marquis or even a Duke.
I always appreciate when authors add sufficient detail so I can visualize the surrounding the characters find themselves in. Victoria Holt did a superb job of this!
Another highpoint of the early part of this story was the way Miss Dallas Lawson’s “mission” was presented to the reader. The premise was unique and appealing. Basically, Dallas worked with her father in his restoration business, where he specialized in repairing fine art and renovation of medieval architecture. After a brief stay in art school, Dallas’s father convinced her that she would learn so much more by quitting school and apprenticing under his direct guidance.
It turned out that Dallas had a natural ability for the work, and as a result, her father turned over much of the painting restoration assignments to Dallas, while he focused on the architectural work for those clients.
One day a letter arrived from the Comte de la Talle of the Gaillard Chateau. The Comte informed Dallas’s father that he was in possession of a collection of fine paintings which required restoration. Could Mr. Lawson come to the chateau, estimate what work was necessary, and if satisfactory arrangement could be reached, stay until completed?
Her father was delighted with the proposed project and informed Dallas that if he successfully landed the job, he would have her join him to stay at the chateau until the work was finished. Unfortunately, another letter soon followed, in which the Comte informed Dallas’s father that the project would have to be delayed and that he would be in touch when he was ready.
Two years after the letter, Dallas’s’ father passed away and shortly after, another letter arrived from the Comte in which he said he was now ready to reengage Mr. Lawson in the project. By this point Dallas was a skilled restorer of paintings with years of experience. Despite her achievements, Dallas feared that she would more than likely be dismissed as a restoration candidate for the chateau job if the Comte were to discover it was her alone, and not her father, offering the services. It was with this in mind that Dallas decides to simply show up at the chateau, rather than writing the Comte in advance. She knew she was qualified and thought her appearance might give her a better chance than would an engagement through written correspondence.
I really liked this plot point because it showed that this character was willing to stand up to any discrimination that may have come to her. She is determined to show the Comte that she is capable and she is passionate about her work. I thought that this premise was excellent and I knew it would present unique challenges to our protagonist. This is always good news for a story.
Another part I enjoyed was the scene of Dallas’s first “interview” at the chateau. The scene and dialogue were well written, witty and entertaining. This was especially true when Dallas learns that she’s being interviewed not by the great Comte himself, but by his young cousin Phillipe de la Talle.
The conversation itself was “tactically elegant”, like a conversational form of fencing.
In the following dialogue, Phillipe has learned that Mr. Dawson has passed away and that this young lady (about his age coincidentally) is claiming that she is qualified to do the restoration work of his uncle’s collection of priceless art. While Dallas is asserting herself, the Comte’s nephew is still reeling from the fact that a young woman has appeared instead of Mr. Lawson.
“Did you think, Mademoiselle Lawson, that had you explained that your father was dead we should have declined your services?”
Dallas replies:
“I believe that your object was to have the pictures restored and was under the impression that it was the work which was important, not the sex of the restorer.”
Phillipe’s brow furrows as it appears he’s trying to make a decision.
“It seems strange that you did not write to tell us.” He says, pressing the issue.
Dallas rises to her feet, striding haughtily toward the door.
“One moment Mademoiselle” Phillipe calls out, then continues in a softer tone:
“You see, you have placed yourself in a very awkward situation” he begins to explain.
“I did not think that my credentials would be slighted without scrutiny. I have never worked before in France and was unprepared for such a reception.”
To use a fencing term, this was a good “thrust” by Dallas. Philippe rose to it.
“Mademoiselle, I assure you, you will be treated as courteously in France as anywhere else.” Phillipe pauses, then went on…
“You spoke of credentials.”
Dallas begins retrieving the letters from her attaché.
“I have recommendations from people who are very pleased with my work…in England. I have worked in some of our great houses and have been entrusted with masterpieces…but if you’re not interested…”
He holds the letters.
“That is not true, Mademoiselle…I am interested” Phillipe replies.
This conversation seemed to reinforce the idea that Dallas hails from the “impoverished gentry.” In this way, she’s a woman completely alone, not fitting in with the servants, nor is she of the class to enjoy the comforts, security and associations of the wealthy families. But she does possess sufficient dignity and comports herself with adequate poise and confidence as to catch the attention of the Comte’s cousin.
In my opinion, this is a shining example of how to “show” the reader the context of the situation as opposed to “telling us.”
“The King of the Castle” is a novel I read with great enthusiasm. The enigmatic teen daughter of the Comte, the deceptively provincial grape growing families, and the incredible way in which Victoria Holt shows us a love, so gradually building. History reignited through the restoration of paintings, some of which are in plain view and some of which are hidden, daring the artisan to try to find and unveil them.
As an expert in the restoration of fine paintings, our character Dallas is able to spend an extended amount of time in the “company” of the great painters in history: Nicolas Poussin, Claude Lorrain and Jean-Antoine Watteau to name a few. She was able to immerse herself in the masterpieces of fine art.
In this way, as I read “The King of the Castle” I felt a bond with Holt’s protagonist. Indeed, I was reading a masterpiece of the Gothic Romance genre!
November 14, 2017
This is a gothic novel, set in the French countryside. It has all of the elements which I love in a gothic novel: the beautiful old chateau, which has dark passageways and secret dungeons, an innocent impressionable girl who arrives at said house, only to discover that the owner of the house is dark, brooding, full of secrets and irresistible.
Dallas has always followed in her father's footsteps in the profession of restoring old paintings. Her father has just passed away, and she has nowhere to go, and so she takes up the job offer received by her father from the Comté de la Talle of Chateau Galliard, without telling the Comté that her father is dead and she is taking his place. Obviously, she meets with resistance when she arrives, but is given the chance to prove herself.
After beginning her work, she becomes obsessed with the Chateau, and explores all of its hidden nooks and crannies. She also becomes obsessed with the Comté, even after hearing all of the dark rumours surrounding the death of his wife.
This isn't a masterpiece of a book, however, it is thoroughly enjoyable, filled with mystery and suspense, and I battled to put it down. I will definitely be looking out for more of this author's books in the future.
Dallas has always followed in her father's footsteps in the profession of restoring old paintings. Her father has just passed away, and she has nowhere to go, and so she takes up the job offer received by her father from the Comté de la Talle of Chateau Galliard, without telling the Comté that her father is dead and she is taking his place. Obviously, she meets with resistance when she arrives, but is given the chance to prove herself.
After beginning her work, she becomes obsessed with the Chateau, and explores all of its hidden nooks and crannies. She also becomes obsessed with the Comté, even after hearing all of the dark rumours surrounding the death of his wife.
This isn't a masterpiece of a book, however, it is thoroughly enjoyable, filled with mystery and suspense, and I battled to put it down. I will definitely be looking out for more of this author's books in the future.
June 18, 2009
Dallas Lawson was trained to follow in her father's footsteps restoring old paintings but when he dies she's left at a crossroads - take a position as governess, take charity from relatives or try to continue the career she's trained for in a man's world. A commission comes in for her father from the Comté de la Talle of Chateaux Galliard and she accepts, although she "forgets" to mention her father is dead and she's coming in his place, much to the chagrin of everyone at the Chateaux.
Dallas settles in to life at the Chateaux and begins work on the paintings, but in typical Holt fashion our heroine soon finds things amiss in the household. The Comté is dark and brooding (of course) and suspected of killing his first wife. His daughter Genevieve is a spoiled fourteen year old brat with a penchant for shutting doors at the most inappropriate times (remember that), a mystery surrounding some Emeralds lost during the Revolution along with Dallas' discovery of a long hidden wall painting that may reveal a clue to the location of those emeralds.
On paper that all sounds appealing to fans of Holt and the romantic suspense genre, but unfortunately this one fell flat as a pancake - at least for this reader. I just did not warm to Dallas; I found no chemistry whatsoever between Dallas and the Comté, Genevieve pretty whiny and irritating, a mystery that wasn't much of a mystery at all, and worst of all a baddie was pretty easy to guess. Meh. Only for die-hard fans of Holt set on reading all of her books, otherwise I suggest you pass.
Dallas settles in to life at the Chateaux and begins work on the paintings, but in typical Holt fashion our heroine soon finds things amiss in the household. The Comté is dark and brooding (of course) and suspected of killing his first wife. His daughter Genevieve is a spoiled fourteen year old brat with a penchant for shutting doors at the most inappropriate times (remember that), a mystery surrounding some Emeralds lost during the Revolution along with Dallas' discovery of a long hidden wall painting that may reveal a clue to the location of those emeralds.
On paper that all sounds appealing to fans of Holt and the romantic suspense genre, but unfortunately this one fell flat as a pancake - at least for this reader. I just did not warm to Dallas; I found no chemistry whatsoever between Dallas and the Comté, Genevieve pretty whiny and irritating, a mystery that wasn't much of a mystery at all, and worst of all a baddie was pretty easy to guess. Meh. Only for die-hard fans of Holt set on reading all of her books, otherwise I suggest you pass.
August 6, 2012
I used to love Victoria Holt's books, so when I found The King of the Castle buried in the back of one of my bookshelves, I had to reread it to see if I would love it still. In many ways, it did hold up for me, but I suspect that this time I was more aware of the author's formula than I used to be. Many of the clues the heroine missed about what was really going on in the castle seemed obvious to me, although I never felt like she was stupid because she didn't see them too. I liked that the heroine of the story is a woman of education and skills and I like how she finds her way to the chateau and demands that the Comte respect her abilities as an art restorer, just as he would have her father. I think the Comte must have been one of Holt's less sinister heroes. He is certainly mysterious, and there is plenty of gossip about him, but the reader never sees him doing anything too suspect. In fact, he's notable more for his absence than his presence in the book, and the contact between hero and heroine is so scant it's a little hard to understand why they fall in love. But of course they do, because that's the formula, and it works. All in all, I enjoyed the story and may browse around for more of Ms. Holt's gothic novels to reread.
November 5, 2019
This is what I was expecting The Black Pearl to be more like: a young orphaned penniless English woman accepts a job doing [art restoration] at a castle with a dark and dangerous lord of the manor and a changeable and undisciplined child. There are horseback rides and formal dinners and quaint local customs and a difficult man intrigued by a staunch and somewhat contrary, not especially pretty woman, who is never flirtatious or coy and isn't at all shy about telling him when he's doing things wrong. There is danger, and careful nursing at home, a valuable inheritance, and at least a couple of other single men who might be attracted as well, but are much more charming.
I loved it for so perfectly being what I expected. But boy, did I find the presumption of inherent class to be repugnant. There are actual peasants. It isn't clear exactly when this is set sometime after trains but before rural electrification or antibiotics. Surprisingly few deaths in childbirth, but lots of orphans.
Fun stuff. Especially the horrible sexism that's all about carving out a place for one exceptional woman. Gah. I'm ready to fight on the barricades and eat the rich. Interestingly there's a strong parallel between the story of the brave noble ancestor hiding out from the mob with a kind servant and the stories Southerners like to tell about the aristocratic ancestor's brave struggles during and after the civil war.
Used for Relics and Curiosities in honor of the secret messages that reveal clues to the long-lost emeralds. I guess valuable jewels aren't as crass as regular money.
Library copy
I loved it for so perfectly being what I expected. But boy, did I find the presumption of inherent class to be repugnant. There are actual peasants. It isn't clear exactly when this is set sometime after trains but before rural electrification or antibiotics. Surprisingly few deaths in childbirth, but lots of orphans.
Fun stuff. Especially the horrible sexism that's all about carving out a place for one exceptional woman. Gah. I'm ready to fight on the barricades and eat the rich. Interestingly there's a strong parallel between the story of the brave noble ancestor hiding out from the mob with a kind servant and the stories Southerners like to tell about the aristocratic ancestor's brave struggles during and after the civil war.
Used for Relics and Curiosities in honor of the secret messages that reveal clues to the long-lost emeralds. I guess valuable jewels aren't as crass as regular money.
Library copy
March 17, 2008
I read all of Victoria Holt mystery/romance books in my 30s. Holt books are a higher caliber of romance fiction than something like Harlequins. Historically accurate. Good recreational reading with something to keep you turning pages.
January 31, 2008
I think Victoria Holt is my favorite author. She writes mysteries that have a touch of romance. She wrote back in the 60's and 70's so they are clean and good ol' fun.
September 6, 2012
This book checks off all the gothic essentials (big old house, domineering man, dead wife, morally ambiguous other guy) plus the Victoria Holt added bonus of "kid in trouble". A part that stood out to me was the heroine's profession as a restorer of antique paintings and buildings. I liked that she had a trade besides "governess" (even though all the other characters keep saying what a good governess she'd be). I had trouble pinning down when it took place since it was never explicitly stated, but I'm fairly sure it was the 1890s. Fun times in wine country with dungeons and mysterious missing jewels.
Read as part of my gothic kick while on vacation.
Read as part of my gothic kick while on vacation.
September 28, 2018
This is a reread for me. I'm slowly rereading all my old favorite authors from high school, to see if it's worth retaining them in my library. I was pleasantly surprised by rereading another Victoria Holt novel recently, so I thought another of her books, set in French wine country, would perfect for a vacation in (German) wine country. In a way it was. It was an appropriate vacation read. Just not a great book.
I feel like every time I reread a gothic romance that I read as a teen, I see the similarities to Jane Eyre, and this story was no exception.The first wife was dead, but otherwise there were so many similarities. In theory, I love Jane Eyre, so realizing a book is in the same lines isn't a problem for me. But it still needs to be well written and enjoyable, and this story simply didn't do that for me. Dallas is an impulsive, emotional, inconsistent, and even reckless character, impulsive and impetuous in her emotions as well as her actions. I appreciate that Victoria Holt didn't try to make her a standard shrinking violet romantic heroine, but how she was portrayed wasn't very likable, and often left me wondering how historically accurate and appropriate her life was. There were sections of text detailing the castle and the lands and communities around and in it that suggested Ms. Holt did a lot of research, and I mostly enjoyed those parts, even when they verged on info dumps. And I realize that a woman trying to gain acceptance and respect in a trained profession at that time would have had to be a strong character. but I just couldn't buy into the story. Dallas' internal narrative is simply too erratic. Instead of creating romantic and suspenseful tension, it just annoyed me. Lothair isn't a very appealing hero either, despite certain revelations that certainly shed a different light on his character. So I didn't love any characters in the book, and had a hard time believing or investing in the romance, so while I finished it, and really couldn't remember whodunit (and what they done) until the end of the story, I can't say I enjoyed myself a lot. the book did keep me occupied during boring travel times via plane and bus, but mostly I'm glad it's finished, and I'm going to give away my old copy and move on to something more enjoyable.
I feel like every time I reread a gothic romance that I read as a teen, I see the similarities to Jane Eyre, and this story was no exception.The first wife was dead, but otherwise there were so many similarities. In theory, I love Jane Eyre, so realizing a book is in the same lines isn't a problem for me. But it still needs to be well written and enjoyable, and this story simply didn't do that for me. Dallas is an impulsive, emotional, inconsistent, and even reckless character, impulsive and impetuous in her emotions as well as her actions. I appreciate that Victoria Holt didn't try to make her a standard shrinking violet romantic heroine, but how she was portrayed wasn't very likable, and often left me wondering how historically accurate and appropriate her life was. There were sections of text detailing the castle and the lands and communities around and in it that suggested Ms. Holt did a lot of research, and I mostly enjoyed those parts, even when they verged on info dumps. And I realize that a woman trying to gain acceptance and respect in a trained profession at that time would have had to be a strong character. but I just couldn't buy into the story. Dallas' internal narrative is simply too erratic. Instead of creating romantic and suspenseful tension, it just annoyed me. Lothair isn't a very appealing hero either, despite certain revelations that certainly shed a different light on his character. So I didn't love any characters in the book, and had a hard time believing or investing in the romance, so while I finished it, and really couldn't remember whodunit (and what they done) until the end of the story, I can't say I enjoyed myself a lot. the book did keep me occupied during boring travel times via plane and bus, but mostly I'm glad it's finished, and I'm going to give away my old copy and move on to something more enjoyable.
July 13, 2015
I don't usually have any interest in romance fiction (though I do enjoy romantic fanfiction, for very different reasons), so it surprised me the first time I read this to actually enjoy that aspect of the story.
The mysteries of the plot don't feel like they were created just to have something to hang the romance upon, which is a pleasant and refreshing difference from most books of this "historical romance" type that I've encountered in the past. (Please note, romance fans, I'm NOT saying ALL romance is like that, so please don't get defensive!)
I wouldn't have chosen this book on my own, I don't think -- it's one I inherited as a part of my late mother's library, which I'm trying to read through piece by piece -- but I did enjoy it, and think I'll move on to the other Holt book in Mum's collection without anxiety.
(Please note: I have a duplicate copy of this available through BookMooch and registered on BookCrossing -- please do feel free to comment to this review if you'd care to claim it! Thanks.)
The mysteries of the plot don't feel like they were created just to have something to hang the romance upon, which is a pleasant and refreshing difference from most books of this "historical romance" type that I've encountered in the past. (Please note, romance fans, I'm NOT saying ALL romance is like that, so please don't get defensive!)
I wouldn't have chosen this book on my own, I don't think -- it's one I inherited as a part of my late mother's library, which I'm trying to read through piece by piece -- but I did enjoy it, and think I'll move on to the other Holt book in Mum's collection without anxiety.
(Please note: I have a duplicate copy of this available through BookMooch and registered on BookCrossing -- please do feel free to comment to this review if you'd care to claim it! Thanks.)
April 19, 2012
I have always been a fan of historical mystery/romance novels, thus I liked this book from the first page. I like Victoria Holt’s style – strong female lead, juicy mystery, misunderstood male characters and unexpected villains.
This book is a very light read. The story is easy to follow, with great and interesting information about the main characters thrown in. The chateau made a perfect setting for a mystery novel.
I also liked learning more about the work involved in art restoration and wine making.
It was good to see Dallas being of strong character, working hard to become independent and believing that she can achieve anything. This story is set in times when women depended on men and/or their families and long before feminism impowered them.
This book is a very light read. The story is easy to follow, with great and interesting information about the main characters thrown in. The chateau made a perfect setting for a mystery novel.
I also liked learning more about the work involved in art restoration and wine making.
It was good to see Dallas being of strong character, working hard to become independent and believing that she can achieve anything. This story is set in times when women depended on men and/or their families and long before feminism impowered them.
October 14, 2008
One of my favorite novels.When I get totally depressed, I often read this book.
I recently came to know that there is a genre called Gothic romance and Victoria Holt is among the best.
She knows how to tell a story-it has everything- romance, suspense,mystery,old world charm, French chateaus..
I just love the way she has portrayed the lead lady character.If I ever get a chance to be a book character ,I want to be Dallas Lawson in 'King of the Castle'.
I value this book as the best in my collection as I got a copy form my late Uncle's and it has the real vintage look- hard bound and calligraphic script.
I recently came to know that there is a genre called Gothic romance and Victoria Holt is among the best.
She knows how to tell a story-it has everything- romance, suspense,mystery,old world charm, French chateaus..
I just love the way she has portrayed the lead lady character.If I ever get a chance to be a book character ,I want to be Dallas Lawson in 'King of the Castle'.
I value this book as the best in my collection as I got a copy form my late Uncle's and it has the real vintage look- hard bound and calligraphic script.
April 11, 2020
A strong 4 stars, rounded up to 5. I love a lot of books but only certain ones truly stand out as "amazing" (Goodreads' explanation for 5). I was leaning toward a "true 5" for this one, but then the end dragged a little as it resolved the final piece of the mystery. I thought the sheer number of pages of final explanation was unnecessary, albeit still very interesting.
Lots of family drama, interesting characters, and a highly enjoyable romance. I absolutely loved all the mystery and the little pieces that fit into everything. I think this is one of my favorite VHs so far.
Lots of family drama, interesting characters, and a highly enjoyable romance. I absolutely loved all the mystery and the little pieces that fit into everything. I think this is one of my favorite VHs so far.
March 17, 2009
Suspense, romance, history, a chateau, a vineyard, a wild child, ah bliss. The heroine was no wilting flower. She had pluck, intelligence. She was amused upon discovering her weaknesses, but didn't try to justify them. My favorite quote from the book; "I did not love him for his virtues." A fantastic read.
August 29, 2022
Dem skrev verkligen mystiska kärleksromaner (som 90% inte består av någon kärlek eller romantik alls) med mycket mer känsla på 1980-talet än nuförtiden. Det finns faktiskt en story (?!), massa arkitektoniska detaljer och huvudkaraktären är en konservator med verklighetstrogna känslor som berör mycket mer än en man. Trevlig läsning.
December 18, 2022
Book summary:
"Help! I'm falling in love with a man who's probably murdered his wife and whose daughter is trying to murder me"
The King of the Castle is an entertaining Gothic romance. The book didn't leave me speechless, nor did the characters wow me. But it was fun all the same.
Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
"Help! I'm falling in love with a man who's probably murdered his wife and whose daughter is trying to murder me"
The King of the Castle is an entertaining Gothic romance. The book didn't leave me speechless, nor did the characters wow me. But it was fun all the same.
Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
January 7, 2014
Terrible. It was one of two books I got from the library for Spring Break reading. The heroine had no admirable qualities and I wasn't sure why she was in love with the hero. All I wanted was a fluffy, happy beach read!
June 1, 2012
Victoria Holt is my favorite author. This is one of my favorite books.
January 27, 2024
When she's good, it's so good!
My heart was pounding as I finished this book because I know Holt can pull a fast one at the very end and my heart was gonna be broken if she did.
But she didn't.
She let me fall in love with the enigmatic lord of the mansion who was giving big Mr. Rochester vibes if Rochester was a flirt and possibly a murderer. The way Holt can write a mysterious man always leaves me breathless. The way her men are ready to sacrifice themselves for the woman they love is so refreshingly redeeming and I am a sucker for it every time. Every time.
But if Holt weren't such a consummate writer, her men would come off as two dimensional. It's because she can take her reader into the world she's creating that her characters come to life. I can see, smell, and hear her settings. And when she sets up an untrustworthy supporting cast, the story is better than any movie or tv show I've ever seen.
I finished this book with a cliche sigh of satisfaction. I'll run back to Holt's books every time current authors disappoint me. She's such a glorious safe space.
My heart was pounding as I finished this book because I know Holt can pull a fast one at the very end and my heart was gonna be broken if she did.
But she didn't.
She let me fall in love with the enigmatic lord of the mansion who was giving big Mr. Rochester vibes if Rochester was a flirt and possibly a murderer. The way Holt can write a mysterious man always leaves me breathless. The way her men are ready to sacrifice themselves for the woman they love is so refreshingly redeeming and I am a sucker for it every time. Every time.
But if Holt weren't such a consummate writer, her men would come off as two dimensional. It's because she can take her reader into the world she's creating that her characters come to life. I can see, smell, and hear her settings. And when she sets up an untrustworthy supporting cast, the story is better than any movie or tv show I've ever seen.
I finished this book with a cliche sigh of satisfaction. I'll run back to Holt's books every time current authors disappoint me. She's such a glorious safe space.
May 6, 2024
"Jag trodde att en människa kunde restaureras så att hon återvann sin ursprungliga skönhet lika väl som en tavla. Men då måste det finnas förståelse för tavlor, en både tillitsfull och ödmjuk kontakt, till och med en förmåga att måla innnan man gjorde något försök att restaurera. Och så mycket mer försiktig man måste vara innan man gav sig på att försöka restaurera en mänsklig varelse!"
"Slottets exteriör var typiskt medeltida och de solida strävpelarna och tornen såg ut att ha byggts för försvar. Murarna med sina smala fönsterspringor verkade massiva. Det hade alldeles för säkert varit en fästning".
Precis som citaten visar handlar Smaragdhjärtat om ett 1400-talsslott i Frankrike dit en konservator reser för att arbeta hos en guvernör. Konservatorn restaurerar hans tavlor, men blir snabbt involverad i hans och familjens samt andra arbetares liv.
Det är en bok med vackra vyer, kärlek och vänskap, skräck och historia!
"Slottets exteriör var typiskt medeltida och de solida strävpelarna och tornen såg ut att ha byggts för försvar. Murarna med sina smala fönsterspringor verkade massiva. Det hade alldeles för säkert varit en fästning".
Precis som citaten visar handlar Smaragdhjärtat om ett 1400-talsslott i Frankrike dit en konservator reser för att arbeta hos en guvernör. Konservatorn restaurerar hans tavlor, men blir snabbt involverad i hans och familjens samt andra arbetares liv.
Det är en bok med vackra vyer, kärlek och vänskap, skräck och historia!
November 21, 2021
There isn’t really a castle, just a French chateau, but it does have the necessary gothic atmosphere. There isn’t a king, either–just a French comte. The heroine restores paintings, and she goes to the chateau to fulfill a commission her father had accepted before he passed away. Except for the fact that she isn’t a governess, all the gothic plot elements are there, and if you’re in the mood for a good escape romance, this one will do.
August 4, 2018
Really more of a 4.5. This was a good one. :)
August 23, 2018
Bu kitabi biraz daha vasatti.
December 3, 2022
This book was really good. The way this type of historical fiction should be. Very glad someone recommended it to me!
February 11, 2016
Mi historia con los libros de Victoria Holt es algo que viene de largo. Cuando era niña me encantaban, los devoraba, terminaba uno y empezaba con el siguiente. Ella junto con Mary Higgins Clark eran mis autoras favoritas, podía leer libros suyos uno detrás de otro sin cansarme. Luego, después de un tiempo, me moví a otros autores y las relegué al cajón de los recuerdos. Un cajón que he vuelto a abrir recientemente. Fruto de ese "regreso al pasado" es esta lectura, o más bien, relectura.
Victoria Holt es un referente a lo que novela gótica romántica se refiere. Curiosamente sus personajes femeninos siempre suelen ser fuertes mujeres independientes que abandonan sus hogares por razones varias, aunque la preferida siempre es que van a trabajar generalmente al servicio del protagonista, y este protagonista siempre suele uno oscuro, como en buena novela gótica, y no siempre redimible. Vamos, que no son unos santos y no terminarás el libro deciendo que al pobre se lo ha malentendido en todo, aunque no sea tan monstruo como parecía en un principio. Por supuesto, todo esto amenizado con cierto suspense.
Eso, básicamente, es lo que encontramos en esta historia. Entonces, supongo que te estarás preguntando, ¿por qué las cinco estrellas? Bueno, en realidad no son 5 sino 4,5 pero como soy así de buena se las pongo todas, pero lo cierto es que no puedo ser imparcial, porque como he dicho antes las historias de esta autora, y esta también, son parte de mi infancia-preadolescencia, porque contribuyeron a que mi amor por la lectura siguiera creciendo, así que sí, le doy las 5 estrellas porque cuando un libro te es querido no necesitas más explicación.
Victoria Holt es un referente a lo que novela gótica romántica se refiere. Curiosamente sus personajes femeninos siempre suelen ser fuertes mujeres independientes que abandonan sus hogares por razones varias, aunque la preferida siempre es que van a trabajar generalmente al servicio del protagonista, y este protagonista siempre suele uno oscuro, como en buena novela gótica, y no siempre redimible. Vamos, que no son unos santos y no terminarás el libro deciendo que al pobre se lo ha malentendido en todo, aunque no sea tan monstruo como parecía en un principio. Por supuesto, todo esto amenizado con cierto suspense.
Eso, básicamente, es lo que encontramos en esta historia. Entonces, supongo que te estarás preguntando, ¿por qué las cinco estrellas? Bueno, en realidad no son 5 sino 4,5 pero como soy así de buena se las pongo todas, pero lo cierto es que no puedo ser imparcial, porque como he dicho antes las historias de esta autora, y esta también, son parte de mi infancia-preadolescencia, porque contribuyeron a que mi amor por la lectura siguiera creciendo, así que sí, le doy las 5 estrellas porque cuando un libro te es querido no necesitas más explicación.
April 7, 2016
My mom & I read a bunch of Victoria Holt novels when I was a teen-ager. I came across this in a Half Price Books, and I thought I'd read it for old time's sake. I expected my adult self to be kind of bored, but I was so wrong about that. I got totally sucked in and I completely enjoyed it.
What my adult self did notice was how much she ripped off--er, borrowed from Jane Eyre. It's like she had the outline of that first gothic romance pinned to her wall and she followed not only the same structure but in many ways, used the same ideas. But the similarities didn't bother me. I mean, there's a reason Jane Eyre worked, right?
I'm wishing I had another Victoria Holt novel to read right now.
What my adult self did notice was how much she ripped off--er, borrowed from Jane Eyre. It's like she had the outline of that first gothic romance pinned to her wall and she followed not only the same structure but in many ways, used the same ideas. But the similarities didn't bother me. I mean, there's a reason Jane Eyre worked, right?
I'm wishing I had another Victoria Holt novel to read right now.
November 23, 2013
I had picked up The King of the Castle at the Durham book sale, and I just finally got around to reading it. Victoria Holt was a fascinating woman, as I’ve described at length before, and I wanted to try a few more of her works. The King of the Castle is a bit of a romance mystery that gave off a lot of Jane Eyre vibes, and I found it highly entertaining and somewhat reminiscent of Mary Stewart’s books. The (British) heroine is named Dallas Lawson, but if you can get past that, you’ll be golden. There are some nice French historical references and an unexpected amount of information on painting restoration, if that’s your thing (it’s mine).
January 26, 2016
Dallas Lawson was trained to follow in her father's footsteps restoring old paintings but when he dies she's left at a crossroads - take a position as governess, take charity from relatives or try to continue the career she's trained for in a man's world. A commission comes in for her father from the Comté de la Talle of Chateaux Galliard and she accepts, although she "forgets" to mention her father is dead and she's coming in his place, much to the chagrin of everyone at the Chateaux.
March 19, 2010
I do love a good gothic novel. It has romance, intrigue, and it's totally clean. An artisan come to restore old paintings falls in love with the mysterious lord of the manor who is rumored to have murdered his first wife...and then there is the mystery of the long lost emeralds, worth a fortune, of course. I love this kind of book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews