What do you think?
Rate this book
The Regency Rags to Riches #3
Almost an Angel
ALMOST THERE
Carolly Hanson was training to be an angel, or so she believed. It was the only explanation for why she kept dying and reappearing in different places and times. Clearly she was intended to help people—and clearly the best way to help people was to find them true love. Never mind that it hadn't worked yet.
This time she awoke in the arms of James Oscar Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern. He would be her next vict—er, beneficiary. The handsome noble was charmed by her odd sense of humor, strange forth-right manner and complete lack of interest in trapping him in marriage. But he also thought her a Bedlamite and wasn't the least bit cooperative with the women she pushed in his direction. So, just who was James's true love?
The answer might be as close as the earl's embrace.
Carolly Hanson was training to be an angel, or so she believed. It was the only explanation for why she kept dying and reappearing in different places and times. Clearly she was intended to help people—and clearly the best way to help people was to find them true love. Never mind that it hadn't worked yet.
This time she awoke in the arms of James Oscar Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern. He would be her next vict—er, beneficiary. The handsome noble was charmed by her odd sense of humor, strange forth-right manner and complete lack of interest in trapping him in marriage. But he also thought her a Bedlamite and wasn't the least bit cooperative with the women she pushed in his direction. So, just who was James's true love?
The answer might be as close as the earl's embrace.
309 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2003
83 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Jade Lee
98 books2,977 followersLibrarian Note: Also writes under the pen name Kathy Lyons.
A USA Today Bestseller, JADE LEE has been scripting love stories since she first picked up a set of paper dolls. Ball gowns and rakish lords caught her attention early (thank you Georgette Heyer), and her fascination with the Regency began. An author of more than 40 romance novels and winner of dozens of industry awards, her latest series is RAKES AND ROGUES. The first one, 50 WAYS TO RUIN A RAKE, is an awesome tale of love and laughter.
And don’t forget Kathy Lyons.. She’s Jade’s paranormal half. Check out her new shifter series GRIZZLIES GONE WILD.
To find all the latest news on Jade or Kathy, visit them at www.jadeleeauthor.com or www.kathylyons.com! And find out where you can meet her at: http://jadeleeauthor.com/appearances
A USA Today Bestseller, JADE LEE has been scripting love stories since she first picked up a set of paper dolls. Ball gowns and rakish lords caught her attention early (thank you Georgette Heyer), and her fascination with the Regency began. An author of more than 40 romance novels and winner of dozens of industry awards, her latest series is RAKES AND ROGUES. The first one, 50 WAYS TO RUIN A RAKE, is an awesome tale of love and laughter.
And don’t forget Kathy Lyons.. She’s Jade’s paranormal half. Check out her new shifter series GRIZZLIES GONE WILD.
To find all the latest news on Jade or Kathy, visit them at www.jadeleeauthor.com or www.kathylyons.com! And find out where you can meet her at: http://jadeleeauthor.com/appearances
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 5, 2013
"James Oliver Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern, did not like surprises."
Well too bad, 'cause James got himself a big one when he was out riding one day and found a young woman beaten within an inch of her life. He brings her home, calls in the doctor and all that good Samaritan stuff, but he's in for a huge surprise when she wakes up - Carolly, or Caro or Carolyn (her memory is a bit dodgy-that's part of the mystery), claims she's an angel-in-training and has been reincarnated several times as she works her way towards earning her angel's wings.
"I'm an angel, James. And I'm here to help you find love."
That's about all you need to know, I don't like to give the whole thing away. The author throws in enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing whether Carolly really is what she claims, or is she off her rocker entirely? Is she the woman who recently escaped from a near-by asylum? Inquiring minds want to know...
"Oh, yes," continued Margaret, clearly imparting as much outrageous gossip as possible. "Henry, the footman, overheard you telling Uncle you were an angel, but Miss Hornswallow says you are just a cheap tart. Cook thinks you are a tart, too. One who has been beaten many times about the head."
Yes this is fluff, but it was fun fluff and very funny at times. One of my favorites is Carolly trying to recall one of her lives in 2025 and recalls some restaurant called McDon something or other:
"Tell me about McDon," he tried.
"He's a clown with big red feet that panders to kids while secretly hardening their arteries."
Lol. I do have to note that there were a few typos and formatting errors (hard returns in the middle of a sentence), many instead of marry, mote instead of more, but not enough to distract from the story. Apparently this is part of series and I'm not sure how the books are connected, but this read well on its own.
Well too bad, 'cause James got himself a big one when he was out riding one day and found a young woman beaten within an inch of her life. He brings her home, calls in the doctor and all that good Samaritan stuff, but he's in for a huge surprise when she wakes up - Carolly, or Caro or Carolyn (her memory is a bit dodgy-that's part of the mystery), claims she's an angel-in-training and has been reincarnated several times as she works her way towards earning her angel's wings.
"I'm an angel, James. And I'm here to help you find love."
That's about all you need to know, I don't like to give the whole thing away. The author throws in enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing whether Carolly really is what she claims, or is she off her rocker entirely? Is she the woman who recently escaped from a near-by asylum? Inquiring minds want to know...
"Oh, yes," continued Margaret, clearly imparting as much outrageous gossip as possible. "Henry, the footman, overheard you telling Uncle you were an angel, but Miss Hornswallow says you are just a cheap tart. Cook thinks you are a tart, too. One who has been beaten many times about the head."
Yes this is fluff, but it was fun fluff and very funny at times. One of my favorites is Carolly trying to recall one of her lives in 2025 and recalls some restaurant called McDon something or other:
"Tell me about McDon," he tried.
"He's a clown with big red feet that panders to kids while secretly hardening their arteries."
Lol. I do have to note that there were a few typos and formatting errors (hard returns in the middle of a sentence), many instead of marry, mote instead of more, but not enough to distract from the story. Apparently this is part of series and I'm not sure how the books are connected, but this read well on its own.
April 24, 2013
Undoubtedly a huge corny romance with a side of theology/paranormal/resurrection, not really sure which. Basically the main character, Carolly, believes she's a pre-angel trying to win her wings by going through lives trying to help other people find love and happiness. She has all her other lives memories even if they are a little blurry sometimes.
Her current life however proves to be rather difficult when she falls in love with James, an earl who lives in 1825, that she believes she is supposed to help find love. He does. Except he wants her. Even with all her mad talk of resurrection and angels. She's bright, vibrant and worked miracles with his niece. What more could he want? Some less madness would be good.
I have to say I doubted Carolly some times throughout the book too so I can't really blame James. Her memory of her past lives was spotty at best or completely non-existent at times. She varied from happy go lucky to gloom in a heartbeat and I actually considered if she was bipolar. Very interesting though. James persistence of her madness manages to even convince her sometimes although some part of her continues to rebel.
Major proof of her sincerity comes right after her first night with James. Her prediction of Napoleon's defeat comes true and James is finally confronted with the real possibility the woman he loves isn't mad but an angel. Or a spy. That crosses his mind. Let's just say their discussion does not end well.
Disheartened by James inability to accept as she really is, she leaves to go to church to pray and is kidnapped by Garret, James cousin and heir, who isn't very happy with the his uncle's recent changes.
She is bound and tied to be bait for James while Garret plans their demise. Unfortunately, despite James misgivings about Garret, Garret's plans work perfectly. James is shot while trying to free Carolly. Garret isn't finished though and blows up the mine where they're at.
James lives. Carolly doesn't. In Heaven, or wherever Carolly goes after her death, she talks with her guide and is given a choice. To become an angel like she wanted or be with James and become one after their life together. She chooses James. She is also given the chance to go to her sister in a dream to say goodbye.
A very neat ending. All that is missing is the pretty pink bow to wrap it all up.
Her current life however proves to be rather difficult when she falls in love with James, an earl who lives in 1825, that she believes she is supposed to help find love. He does. Except he wants her. Even with all her mad talk of resurrection and angels. She's bright, vibrant and worked miracles with his niece. What more could he want? Some less madness would be good.
I have to say I doubted Carolly some times throughout the book too so I can't really blame James. Her memory of her past lives was spotty at best or completely non-existent at times. She varied from happy go lucky to gloom in a heartbeat and I actually considered if she was bipolar. Very interesting though. James persistence of her madness manages to even convince her sometimes although some part of her continues to rebel.
Major proof of her sincerity comes right after her first night with James. Her prediction of Napoleon's defeat comes true and James is finally confronted with the real possibility the woman he loves isn't mad but an angel. Or a spy. That crosses his mind. Let's just say their discussion does not end well.
Disheartened by James inability to accept as she really is, she leaves to go to church to pray and is kidnapped by Garret, James cousin and heir, who isn't very happy with the his uncle's recent changes.
She is bound and tied to be bait for James while Garret plans their demise. Unfortunately, despite James misgivings about Garret, Garret's plans work perfectly. James is shot while trying to free Carolly. Garret isn't finished though and blows up the mine where they're at.
James lives. Carolly doesn't. In Heaven, or wherever Carolly goes after her death, she talks with her guide and is given a choice. To become an angel like she wanted or be with James and become one after their life together. She chooses James. She is also given the chance to go to her sister in a dream to say goodbye.
A very neat ending. All that is missing is the pretty pink bow to wrap it all up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2021
It's been a while since I've read a book that challenged me (in a good way!) I was intrigued by the premise of Almost an Angel, and as a former psychiatric nurse, but also metaphysically open-minded, I confess to being as confused as the hero was, re: who or what he was dealing with. It wasn't until the very satisfying ending that the mystery of Carolly was solved! I highly recommend anything by Jade Lee, and especially this fabulous book! Do NOT read the ending first!
August 2, 2024
Could not stop reading.
I kept wanting to skip ahead to see if she was really crazy. I am so glad I didn’t. The ending was perfect. Each book is like a present, some mediocre. This one was beyond my expectations.
I kept wanting to skip ahead to see if she was really crazy. I am so glad I didn’t. The ending was perfect. Each book is like a present, some mediocre. This one was beyond my expectations.
September 8, 2024
Set in 1815 England, Carolly Hanson wakes up bruised and in an unfamiliar place.
While out riding on his estate, James Oscar Henry Northram: the Earl of Traynern finds Carolly and brings her back to his home.
Lee’s plot has elements similar to the popular television series: Quantum Leap.
While out riding on his estate, James Oscar Henry Northram: the Earl of Traynern finds Carolly and brings her back to his home.
Lee’s plot has elements similar to the popular television series: Quantum Leap.
February 17, 2020
The characters--especially the heroine--were incredibly irritating.
April 26, 2021
This is a pretty strange romance novel. But overall it is pretty sweet and fluffy.
May 2, 2021
Good Read
A very exciting story of love and mystery. Is she or isn’t she almost an angel or is she crazy? You need to read this story to find out.
A very exciting story of love and mystery. Is she or isn’t she almost an angel or is she crazy? You need to read this story to find out.
July 2, 2022
DNF @ 24%
March 1, 2015
I actually read the "Jade Lee Bundle: Almost an Angel; No Place for a Lady" and wrote a combined review for both books you can find here on goodreads if you prefer that.
--------------------------------------
"Almost an Angel" by Jade Lee is book 3 in the theme-linked series "The Regency Rags to Riches" and challenges your belief of the meaning of life.
It is 1815 in England when Carolly again begins another life in a new incarnation. She is badly hurt but lucky that James Oliver Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern, finds her. Right from the beginning there is a big conflict since Carolly insists on being honest with her saviour James. She believes she is send back again and again to earth that she can make up for her past mistakes and James is her new assignment. Until now, she failed pitifully but maybe this time it will be different. Only, is James able to accept Carolly's beliefs or will he send her for Bedlam?
Carolly is a 29-year-old, lively character. She is full of energy and has always a positiv attitude. That seems to be remarkable because of all the cruelty she had to endure while time-traveling. People tend to be afraid and later become violent when someone tells them they're a pre-angel, which Carolly does since she wants be honest with them.
She tells so James as well and he stays unusually calm for a Regency Gentleman already in his early 30's. He accepts her "delusions" and attempts to direct her way of thinking back to his reality. At the beginning, it's easier for him but it becomes more and more trying in the story progress due to his slowly falling in love with her.
At the beginning James is shocked to find Carolly in such bad shape. And when she begins to sprout obvious nonsense he wishes he had not picked her up. James really has a hard time believing everything Carolly says which is quite alright. It would have been strange, if he had believed Carolly right away. So, her whole story sounds rather wondrous. Moreover, James is described as a hard person with a noble character since he cares about his people. This feature and Carolly's honesty help him a lot to come around in loving her and accepting all her 'faults'.
Almost an Angel is a historical romance with a paranormal streak, because of the time-travel element. But the Story isn't focussing so much on the time-travel plot, more on the idea that everyone has to atone for ones past life mistakes. Here it happens through time-traveling, where Carolly tries to better the life of people she meets.
The love story, the central theme, is not overshadowed by that and stays interesting until the end. And it's easy to understand James' inner conflict and Carolly's stubbornness about her view of events, because for her it is the truth. It was her life until she met James.
There are two minor topics implemented into the plot about life's difficulties and regency opinions at that time. So, the aspect of schizophrenia is strongly bound to the Story. Even so Carolly isn't schizophrenic, but she tends to merge the different lives from her time-travel adventures which James sees as a symptom of the illness. The description of the various odd situations appear realistic as if Carolly would be truly ill and gives a better understanding of James battles in those situations.
The other topic is about problems of everyday life at regency times. An old issue are, of course, the prim society rules and beliefs. James needs to overcome those to find happiness and Carolly shows him the way. But more interesting was the characterisation of mining at that time and how dangerous it was. James shows his noble character by finding possible solutions for the miner and their families. Through this, the Story became something real without suppressing the main plot.
Almost an Angel is one of the first works by Jade Lee and originally published under her old pseudonym Katherine Greyle. The writing is already à la Jade Lee and absolutly beautiful. She creats from the beginning a romantic and touch-feely atmosphere effortlessly. While she allows the plot to be told in third person by Carolly and James she never forgets the reader and guides them carefully through the difficult topic of schizophrenia.
I fell in love with the historical writing by Jade Lee and will continue to pay attention to her new historical romance releases. Thank you for a beautiful story Mrs. Lee.
--------------------------------------
"Almost an Angel" by Jade Lee is book 3 in the theme-linked series "The Regency Rags to Riches" and challenges your belief of the meaning of life.
It is 1815 in England when Carolly again begins another life in a new incarnation. She is badly hurt but lucky that James Oliver Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern, finds her. Right from the beginning there is a big conflict since Carolly insists on being honest with her saviour James. She believes she is send back again and again to earth that she can make up for her past mistakes and James is her new assignment. Until now, she failed pitifully but maybe this time it will be different. Only, is James able to accept Carolly's beliefs or will he send her for Bedlam?
Carolly is a 29-year-old, lively character. She is full of energy and has always a positiv attitude. That seems to be remarkable because of all the cruelty she had to endure while time-traveling. People tend to be afraid and later become violent when someone tells them they're a pre-angel, which Carolly does since she wants be honest with them.
She tells so James as well and he stays unusually calm for a Regency Gentleman already in his early 30's. He accepts her "delusions" and attempts to direct her way of thinking back to his reality. At the beginning, it's easier for him but it becomes more and more trying in the story progress due to his slowly falling in love with her.
At the beginning James is shocked to find Carolly in such bad shape. And when she begins to sprout obvious nonsense he wishes he had not picked her up. James really has a hard time believing everything Carolly says which is quite alright. It would have been strange, if he had believed Carolly right away. So, her whole story sounds rather wondrous. Moreover, James is described as a hard person with a noble character since he cares about his people. This feature and Carolly's honesty help him a lot to come around in loving her and accepting all her 'faults'.
Almost an Angel is a historical romance with a paranormal streak, because of the time-travel element. But the Story isn't focussing so much on the time-travel plot, more on the idea that everyone has to atone for ones past life mistakes. Here it happens through time-traveling, where Carolly tries to better the life of people she meets.
The love story, the central theme, is not overshadowed by that and stays interesting until the end. And it's easy to understand James' inner conflict and Carolly's stubbornness about her view of events, because for her it is the truth. It was her life until she met James.
There are two minor topics implemented into the plot about life's difficulties and regency opinions at that time. So, the aspect of schizophrenia is strongly bound to the Story. Even so Carolly isn't schizophrenic, but she tends to merge the different lives from her time-travel adventures which James sees as a symptom of the illness. The description of the various odd situations appear realistic as if Carolly would be truly ill and gives a better understanding of James battles in those situations.
The other topic is about problems of everyday life at regency times. An old issue are, of course, the prim society rules and beliefs. James needs to overcome those to find happiness and Carolly shows him the way. But more interesting was the characterisation of mining at that time and how dangerous it was. James shows his noble character by finding possible solutions for the miner and their families. Through this, the Story became something real without suppressing the main plot.
Almost an Angel is one of the first works by Jade Lee and originally published under her old pseudonym Katherine Greyle. The writing is already à la Jade Lee and absolutly beautiful. She creats from the beginning a romantic and touch-feely atmosphere effortlessly. While she allows the plot to be told in third person by Carolly and James she never forgets the reader and guides them carefully through the difficult topic of schizophrenia.
I fell in love with the historical writing by Jade Lee and will continue to pay attention to her new historical romance releases. Thank you for a beautiful story Mrs. Lee.
September 24, 2012
ALMOST AN ANGEL is a hodge podge of genres and because if this, some may find the story confusing. Carolly Hanson is from the year 2000. When she passed away she had wasted her young life. Believing in second chances, she has died several times and has been reincarnated so she can bring someone true love. In her past lives she could never finish her mission so she dies a violent death and then returns to a new time. Her goal, she thinks, is to redeem herself so she can become an angel. This will complete her days on earth.
It is now 1815 and James Northram, the Earl of Traynem, finds a woman in a field on his lands. She is unconscious, wearing peculiar clothes and looks as though she was beaten. He brings her to his home where she recuperates....and drives him nuts. Her tall tales and peculiar manners both attract and distance him. James doesn't know what to believe but he knows she needs help and he decides he's the man to do this.
James is a former soldier, a confirmed bachelor and guardian to his niece. Because he has no children of his own his cousin Garrett stands to inherit everything on his death. In his 30's he still has a long life and tries to use his monies to help those working his lands. But they are not happy and this causes problems for the Earl.
Carolly thinks she needs to find him a wife, someone he can love. She also tries to make his relationship with his niece better. This is where the story lost one star because she keeps doing stupid things. There are humorous moments that make up for some of her brainlessness but I thought she should have been smarter.
I lowered the rating another star because there was some slow reading. The book pulled me in at the beginning but by the middle I was wondering what happened. Ms. Greyle introduced a new character about 2/3's of the way in to justify some of the nonsense. Instead it just made me think she was introducing this woman's name to patch up some of the confusion. It is about 30 pages too long and I think Ms. Greyle's editor could have done a better job. On the whole, I liked it because it was a different type of romance but I can't recommend it because of the above problems.
If you are looking for a different type of romance and want a five star read try KISS ME, I'M IRISH by Bella Street or BASKET OF WISHES by Rebecca Paisley.
It is now 1815 and James Northram, the Earl of Traynem, finds a woman in a field on his lands. She is unconscious, wearing peculiar clothes and looks as though she was beaten. He brings her to his home where she recuperates....and drives him nuts. Her tall tales and peculiar manners both attract and distance him. James doesn't know what to believe but he knows she needs help and he decides he's the man to do this.
James is a former soldier, a confirmed bachelor and guardian to his niece. Because he has no children of his own his cousin Garrett stands to inherit everything on his death. In his 30's he still has a long life and tries to use his monies to help those working his lands. But they are not happy and this causes problems for the Earl.
Carolly thinks she needs to find him a wife, someone he can love. She also tries to make his relationship with his niece better. This is where the story lost one star because she keeps doing stupid things. There are humorous moments that make up for some of her brainlessness but I thought she should have been smarter.
I lowered the rating another star because there was some slow reading. The book pulled me in at the beginning but by the middle I was wondering what happened. Ms. Greyle introduced a new character about 2/3's of the way in to justify some of the nonsense. Instead it just made me think she was introducing this woman's name to patch up some of the confusion. It is about 30 pages too long and I think Ms. Greyle's editor could have done a better job. On the whole, I liked it because it was a different type of romance but I can't recommend it because of the above problems.
If you are looking for a different type of romance and want a five star read try KISS ME, I'M IRISH by Bella Street or BASKET OF WISHES by Rebecca Paisley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2018
Almost an Angel was a surprising read and I can honestly say that I did not expect to like this book as much as I do now. The plot is intriguing- a woman is re-incarnated [is it re-incarnation when she doesn't do the whole dying-being born as a different person but instead stays in the same body?] and tries to help people so that she can ascend into Heaven as an angel.
The male lead of the story- James Oscar Henry- does not believe Carolly's story at all and frankly, I was right there with him most of the time. Everything just seemed so far-fetched that I was inclined to believe that she was schizophrenic, and I would have if Carolly hadn't mentioned cars. That's right, a woman that lives in the 19th century now, knows about cars so of course I had my doubts. Kudos to Ms.Jade Lee for all those red herrings.
This is the first book I've read that has even remotely touched upon mental illnesses and it helped me remember why I haven't gone near such books (Hint: I cried my eyes out). Loving someone with a mental illness, romantically or otherwise, is hard. It makes you painfully aware that you have so much to be grateful for and also that you are utterly helpless and sometimes the best thing you can do is love them.
The ending was okay. It was happy (thank you Jade Lee) and a bit confusing, or maybe it was a plot hole? I don't even know, but I think the ending was not as good as I expected it to be because I might have wanted her stories to not be true (this is due to your influence Shida & Diana, THANKS A LOT). All in all, the book was pretty darn good and I'd recommend it to any romance buffs .
Before anyone attacks me about what I said regarding mental illnesses and the way they make loved ones feel, I am not speaking from real life experience. That is just what I picked up from the book and they are my views on what it's like to love someone with such disorders. I also apologize if the term 'mental illness' offends you but I don't know what else to call it when I'm talking about a broad definition.
The male lead of the story- James Oscar Henry- does not believe Carolly's story at all and frankly, I was right there with him most of the time. Everything just seemed so far-fetched that I was inclined to believe that she was schizophrenic, and I would have if Carolly hadn't mentioned cars. That's right, a woman that lives in the 19th century now, knows about cars so of course I had my doubts. Kudos to Ms.Jade Lee for all those red herrings.
This is the first book I've read that has even remotely touched upon mental illnesses and it helped me remember why I haven't gone near such books (Hint: I cried my eyes out). Loving someone with a mental illness, romantically or otherwise, is hard. It makes you painfully aware that you have so much to be grateful for and also that you are utterly helpless and sometimes the best thing you can do is love them.
The ending was okay. It was happy (thank you Jade Lee) and a bit confusing, or maybe it was a plot hole? I don't even know, but I think the ending was not as good as I expected it to be because I might have wanted her stories to not be true (this is due to your influence Shida & Diana, THANKS A LOT). All in all, the book was pretty darn good and I'd recommend it to any romance buffs .
Before anyone attacks me about what I said regarding mental illnesses and the way they make loved ones feel, I am not speaking from real life experience. That is just what I picked up from the book and they are my views on what it's like to love someone with such disorders. I also apologize if the term 'mental illness' offends you but I don't know what else to call it when I'm talking about a broad definition.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2017
3.5 stars. I really, really wanted to like this book. The premise behind this book had potential and, after reading No Place for a Lady, the first in this series (which have absolutely nothing to do with each other), I was really eager to read this one.
Time travel is a difficult topic to write, I believe. Sometimes it goes really well, but other times (most that I've read anyway), it doesn't go so well and even bombs badly.
This one didn't bomb, per sey, but wasn't what I was expecting. It started slow and I confess I nearly DNF. Then it got good and I sped through the meat of the book. But then it petered out. It kind of left me feeling annoyed for spending so much time reading it (and sleeping so little)! I kept falling asleep in place - and a good book, I don't mind telling you, rarely catches me nodding off!
Several elements of the story were missing or ignored - who the heck was Danny to whom James kept referring to?!? Other than an occasional mention of his military time, and an on-again-off-again knee injury he apparently sustained in Spain, what purpose does James' military time have to do with the story except to show that he apparently keeps track of the war with Napoleon. And it took me a while to figure out that James was the second son and that his older brother (Bradley??) - who should have been the earl died in a carriage accident - and apparently came back to the future. *sigh* It just all felt forced and really, it could have been better!
Anyway, I really liked the first book of the series and will likely find others by this author. This one just didn't do it for me.
Time travel is a difficult topic to write, I believe. Sometimes it goes really well, but other times (most that I've read anyway), it doesn't go so well and even bombs badly.
This one didn't bomb, per sey, but wasn't what I was expecting. It started slow and I confess I nearly DNF. Then it got good and I sped through the meat of the book. But then it petered out. It kind of left me feeling annoyed for spending so much time reading it (and sleeping so little)! I kept falling asleep in place - and a good book, I don't mind telling you, rarely catches me nodding off!
Several elements of the story were missing or ignored - who the heck was Danny to whom James kept referring to?!? Other than an occasional mention of his military time, and an on-again-off-again knee injury he apparently sustained in Spain, what purpose does James' military time have to do with the story except to show that he apparently keeps track of the war with Napoleon. And it took me a while to figure out that James was the second son and that his older brother (Bradley??) - who should have been the earl died in a carriage accident - and apparently came back to the future. *sigh* It just all felt forced and really, it could have been better!
Anyway, I really liked the first book of the series and will likely find others by this author. This one just didn't do it for me.
May 9, 2013
It was an okay read. I like the concept of the story of a angel/pre-angel soul going to different lives helping people. It was funny at times the interaction between the hero and heroine. I did find that the story kind of dragged here and there, but it didn't bother me much. I guess that is to be expected cause it would takes a lot of time to accept someone you love may or may not be delusional. Now the ending was a disappointment to me and what dropped this book for a 3/4 star to 2 (sometimes considered it 1) stars.
*Spoiler*
So my frustration continues about the this book. I may try another one of Jade Lee's book and see if this will be a common disappointment for her books. Hopefully not.
*Spoiler*
So my frustration continues about the this book. I may try another one of Jade Lee's book and see if this will be a common disappointment for her books. Hopefully not.
March 20, 2016
I thought this was a good story. I do like historical novels that involve a person from present time being transported back in time in some way and that's what this story had. Although in this case, Carolly was, in a sense, reincarnated into a woman that had just died though it wasn't the first time that happened to her. Believing that she was meant to become an angel if only she could make up for her first life she sets out to try to help her rescuer find love. What she didn't plan, or expect, was to fall in love with her rescuer, James, herself.
Now I liked the length of this book. I was glad that it wasn't too short. However, I did feel as though some situations were repeated more than necessary. It just felt like the characters made progress in their relationship, then it fell apart then progress was made again, then fell apart, etc. And there were also some errors in writing and spelling which I found unusual as I have read a couple other books by Jade Lee and didn't notice such things.
Overall I enjoyed the story very much. I laughed, I cried. I was emotionally invested in the characters which is what I like.
Now I liked the length of this book. I was glad that it wasn't too short. However, I did feel as though some situations were repeated more than necessary. It just felt like the characters made progress in their relationship, then it fell apart then progress was made again, then fell apart, etc. And there were also some errors in writing and spelling which I found unusual as I have read a couple other books by Jade Lee and didn't notice such things.
Overall I enjoyed the story very much. I laughed, I cried. I was emotionally invested in the characters which is what I like.
June 11, 2016
"I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review."
Jade Lee has created a story that combines the supernatural, religion, romance, history and a lesson on living one's life to the fullest.
Carolly Hanson was born in the United States in the 20th century, but has died and come back to life again several times, supposedly to finally "get it right". She has gone backward in time and forwards again.
This time she's been reincarnated into England at the time of the Napoleonic wars. She's found by James, Earl of Traynern. He decides to help this wounded female, while she knows that her "job" this time is to help save James.
Carolly does help James to open his heart to love, first to love his niece, then to love Carolly, although he never really believes her true story.
There are evil plots afoot by heirs to both James and to Carolly present identity Caroline.
Twists and turns of the plot leave one gasping, crying, laughing until the end of the story.
I won't tell you the surprise ending, just that it's unexpected.
Kudos, Jade Lee. This is a wonderful, and thought-provoking romance.
Jade Lee has created a story that combines the supernatural, religion, romance, history and a lesson on living one's life to the fullest.
Carolly Hanson was born in the United States in the 20th century, but has died and come back to life again several times, supposedly to finally "get it right". She has gone backward in time and forwards again.
This time she's been reincarnated into England at the time of the Napoleonic wars. She's found by James, Earl of Traynern. He decides to help this wounded female, while she knows that her "job" this time is to help save James.
Carolly does help James to open his heart to love, first to love his niece, then to love Carolly, although he never really believes her true story.
There are evil plots afoot by heirs to both James and to Carolly present identity Caroline.
Twists and turns of the plot leave one gasping, crying, laughing until the end of the story.
I won't tell you the surprise ending, just that it's unexpected.
Kudos, Jade Lee. This is a wonderful, and thought-provoking romance.
June 24, 2016
I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review.
On a ride through his lands one day, James Oscar Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern comes across a unconscious woman, beaten to within an inch of her life. As she recovers physically at his estate, James fears for the woman's mental state, as all she can recall is that her name is Carolly and that she believes herself to be an angel who is being repeatedly returned to earth as an angel in training after having tragically wasted her own first life. She believes it is her mission to find love for the first person she encounters each time she is returned to earth--in this case, James. Unfortunately, it is not hard to predict how the plot unfolds as Carrolly tries to convince James and herself that she is not an escaped Bedlamite, and when she attempts to enourage romantic relationships between James and other women.
Carrolly and James' interactions and dialog are quite light-hearted and humorous, and the book is a very quick read. While I was not left dying to read the rest of the books in the Regency Rags to Riches Series, I did enjoy reading Almost an Angel and will try another book by Jade Lee.
On a ride through his lands one day, James Oscar Henry Northram, Earl of Traynern comes across a unconscious woman, beaten to within an inch of her life. As she recovers physically at his estate, James fears for the woman's mental state, as all she can recall is that her name is Carolly and that she believes herself to be an angel who is being repeatedly returned to earth as an angel in training after having tragically wasted her own first life. She believes it is her mission to find love for the first person she encounters each time she is returned to earth--in this case, James. Unfortunately, it is not hard to predict how the plot unfolds as Carrolly tries to convince James and herself that she is not an escaped Bedlamite, and when she attempts to enourage romantic relationships between James and other women.
Carrolly and James' interactions and dialog are quite light-hearted and humorous, and the book is a very quick read. While I was not left dying to read the rest of the books in the Regency Rags to Riches Series, I did enjoy reading Almost an Angel and will try another book by Jade Lee.
July 6, 2016
Quirky and sweet story about a woman (Carolly) who has lived past lives and continues to reincarnate in different lives in her quest to become an Angel. In her newest incarnation she is found at the side of the road beaten and bruised by James - a stuffy overbearing man who doesn't have a clue what to do with her. Little by little Carolly thaws him out, and James finds himself with feelings for her. James also has a 10 year old niece (Margaret) that he has no clue as to how to raise. It becomes apparent that Carolly's purpose in their lives is to teach them about love.
The only problem is that James thinks she's mentally ill. How else can she explain that she has not only reincarnated, but that she has time traveled.
This book does get a bit strange in that so reptiles you are reading about her current life and experiences and at other times you are reading about her past life. It becomes more confusing when Carolly herself starts losing the memories she has of her past life. It will take a great deal of love and trust from James to see past the illness he perceives to the angel in his life.
I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
The only problem is that James thinks she's mentally ill. How else can she explain that she has not only reincarnated, but that she has time traveled.
This book does get a bit strange in that so reptiles you are reading about her current life and experiences and at other times you are reading about her past life. It becomes more confusing when Carolly herself starts losing the memories she has of her past life. It will take a great deal of love and trust from James to see past the illness he perceives to the angel in his life.
I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2016
Hmmmm, dieses Buch konnte mich leider nicht wirklich fesseln. Vielleicht muss ich zu einem anderen Zeitpunkt noch einmal einen Versuch starten, aber irgendwie konnte ich mich nicht ganz auf die Geschichte einlassen. Sie ist gut geschrieben, ja, aber dennoch habe ich das Buch zwischendurch immer wieder einmal abgebrochen und hatte keine Probleme, Carolly und James sich für einige Tage sich selbst zu überlassen. Wenn ich dann wieder angefangen habe zu lesen, habe ich es gerne gelesen, aber...
Ich weiß nicht, ob mir der Engel-Part letztlich doch zu viel war oder was auch immer, genau weiß ich es leider selber nicht.
Insgesamt waren es jedoch komplexe und interessante Charaktere, eine interessante und ein wenig andere Story und ein Schreibstil mit viel Witz und Charme. Ich schließe nicht aus, dass mir das Buch zu einem anderen Zeitpunkt besser gefallen hätte, da die "Zutaten" eigentlich alle stimmig und gut sind und das Ganze auch gut umgesetzt ist.
Wer also bereit ist, sich auf eine etwas andere Zeitreisegeschichte einzulassen, könnte hier durchaus fündig werden.
*I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review.*
Ich weiß nicht, ob mir der Engel-Part letztlich doch zu viel war oder was auch immer, genau weiß ich es leider selber nicht.
Insgesamt waren es jedoch komplexe und interessante Charaktere, eine interessante und ein wenig andere Story und ein Schreibstil mit viel Witz und Charme. Ich schließe nicht aus, dass mir das Buch zu einem anderen Zeitpunkt besser gefallen hätte, da die "Zutaten" eigentlich alle stimmig und gut sind und das Ganze auch gut umgesetzt ist.
Wer also bereit ist, sich auf eine etwas andere Zeitreisegeschichte einzulassen, könnte hier durchaus fündig werden.
*I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review.*
June 23, 2016
This was a great book. I loved the characters and the diversity of their personalities. the imagination and creativity was wonderful. There's a lot of meat to this story and I enjoyed all of it. It kept me well interested (especially in wanting to see what on earth was going to happen next) and confused as to what to believe at times. There were some surprising twists and turns and a great ending that definitely leaves me wanting to read more. This was really well written and flows from one page to next without you even noticing. I got this book from eBook Discovery for an honest review and I can say I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would read it again. Great for a lazy day read or curling up with some comfies to read. Enjoy!
Read
February 18, 2010I finished this book today and very glad to finish it as it was not what I expected. It was suppose to be a time travel romance and while it was a romance I do not qualify it as a time travel. The book was long and the print was small and I never thought I would finish it but once I start a book I have to finish it.
April 18, 2013
An angel of sorts is on a mission to obtain her wings. Hopping from one time to another helping others find love to obtain her wings, or so she thinks.
Cute storyline, with pinch humor & smidgen of mystery... Overall an interesting contemporary historical romance that was a quick easy read for me.
Currently the book is kindle freebie
Cute storyline, with pinch humor & smidgen of mystery... Overall an interesting contemporary historical romance that was a quick easy read for me.
Currently the book is kindle freebie
May 10, 2013
Well I thought that the Idea that started the book was a good one but I believe the writer side-tracked ignoring certain aspects of the story that would have been interesting. Further more I hated the fact that in the end the heroine would not remember her being "Carolly" although it was obvious that the hero loved her for being Carolly and not Caroline
May 29, 2013
I was very skeptical when I purchased this book for ninety-nine cents. But I couldn't close it. The concept of reincarnation has always interested me therefore, I bought the book. I loved the characters including the child Mags. Carolly and James were perfect for each other. I highly recommend this book.
November 3, 2015
This was another book I read awhile ago. I'm actually going to reread it because it was so good! The story remains interesting from beginning to end, and I just loved the main plot of the story where the main character is an Angel trying to help this single father. I would suggest everyone to read this book.
June 26, 2016
I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
A beautiful story of love and mystery with a lot of turns.
The importance of trust and love will bring people together and lead a new life and suspense.
A book for everyone and when you start to read this book, you'll never want to leave it.
A beautiful story of love and mystery with a lot of turns.
The importance of trust and love will bring people together and lead a new life and suspense.
A book for everyone and when you start to read this book, you'll never want to leave it.
August 9, 2011
This book is terrible! The male lead is a self-centered, egotistical character who should have been blown up in the end of the book. Who thought this was a romance?
April 13, 2012
Fun time traveling novella. Of course, I do like toads, insects, and Angora rabbits so I may be biased.
Want to read
April 16, 2013Author AKA Jade Lee
April 23, 2013
I finished because i was curious about how it was going to end up. I kind of enjoyed it the book. I am not sure what bothered me about this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews