The heroine of Lord Carew’s Bride by Mary Balogh is a spinster who has put off romance but is searching for meaning in life. Through her chance encounter with the reclusive Lord Carew, she finds friendship, love, and self-discovery.
I have a secret to confess about Mary Balogh. She’s an author I’ve always meant to read, but because I can only accomplish so little in life, her books would get pushed down in my TBR list. I own about twenty of her romances, but except to delight in a few covers I’ve never touched them.
One day I decided that it was as good as any to start. The reviews for Lord Carew’s Brideintrigued me. although I couldn’t find the title among my books. So instead of reading one of the romances I already owned, I ordered a copy of Lord Carews’ Bride. And I’m glad I did; the cover is darling!
It was then that I realized I already owned it; the story was part of a two-in-one volume with Dark Angel.
Now this means I have to get a copy of the original version of Dark Angel because my book-collecting OCD demands I must!
The Book
Lord Carew’s Bride by Mary Balogh was originally published as a 1995 Signet Regency romance. The story tells of Samantha Newman, an increasingly aging spinster (she’s in her mid-twenties!), searching for meaning and fulfillment in her life.
Through Samantha’s chance encounter with the reclusive Marquess of Carew, Balogh weaves a tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery.
The Plot
At 25 years old, Samantha St. Clair is almost on the shelf. But because she is beautiful, she is still courted by many gentlemen. Nevertheless, she is still troubled and unhappy due, in part, to past heartache.
During a stay in the country with her friends, Jennifer and Gabriel, Samantha takes a walk and stumbles upon the property of the reclusive Marquess of Carew. She meets an unassuming crippled man who is warm and amiable. Thinking he is a landscape designer, she builds a cordial friendship with him.
Only later does she discover that he is no mere gardener but is actually the wealthy marquess.
Back in London, Samantha is again threatened by the man who broke her heart years earlier when she was a fresh-faced debutant.
Lord Carew is also in London, and it is then the true identity of Samantha’s supposed landscaper friend is revealed. Lord Carew will always be Samatha’s confidant, and ally regardless of who he is. He offers sanctuary from the emotional drama and pledges to marry her.
Deciding that friendship is better than the heartache of love, Samantha accepts Carew’s marriage proposal.
Their marriage is one of convenience. Nevertheless, as they get to know each other, they realize that their feelings for each other transcend mere affection.
The relationship between Hartley Wade, Lord Carew, and Miss Newman unfolds gently, with tender moments like when she massages Carew’s injured hand.
Samantha acknowledges that what she feels for Carew is more than mere friendship; it’s love.
My Opinion
Lord Carew’s Bride is not an angsty, overly dramatic book with nail-biting cliffhangers at the end of each chapter. This a slow, character-study of romance. I’m not complaining! It was a real treat to experience.
One of the standout elements is how Balogh portrays the relationship between Samantha and Carew, her “landscaper” friend. The two characters are so different from each other on the surface, but as they spend time together their bond grows gradually and authentically.
These two protagonists genuinely like each other, and it’s s a joy to watch it unfold.
The case of mistaken identity allows for a unique dynamic between Samantha and Carews. When his true identity is revealed later on, it is handled in a most satisfying manner.
Another of this book’s strengths is how Balogh explores the issue of romantic relationships and contentment. Samantha’s journey from being unsatisfied with her life to finding happiness in friendship to true joy in marriage underscores this theme more deeply than one might expect in a 225-page romance.
Balogh has a real talent for bringing characters to life and exploring the complexities of love.
Steam Factor: Sweet Meets Warm
Obviously, this is a trad regency, so the steam factor isn’t going to be sizzling. The romantic relationship between Samantha and Carew grows gradually and authentically.
They find pleasure with each other in their marital bed, although it doesn’t start as a roaring fire of passion. There’s a moment where Carew thinks to himself of how delightful their nights together are, even if his new bride was still shy and unready to initiate love play.
Carew was confident time would change that as he was a patient lover. He could never force his bride into hedonistic sex for his own pleasure; instead, he sought reciprocity and mutual enjoyment.
The slow-burning romance between them heats ups and some sensitive readers might feel a pleasant tingle. Lord Carew’s Bride straddles the line between sweet and warm. Should we call the heat level swarm? Weet?
Let’s just keep it at “where sweet meets warm.”
Final Analysis of Lord Carew’s Bride
Lord Carew’s Bride is a charming love story with engaging writing. Balogh’s prose is quite, almost exquisite at times. The way she portrays the love between Lord Carew and Samantha is nothing short of delightful.
Lord Carew is the epitome of a wounded hero, and readers will root for him every step as he overcomes his physical limitations and finds love and happiness.
Despite a few less-than-perfect moments, this is certainly a book I’ll recall fondly. Certainly, if you’re looking for an engaging traditional Regency romance, Lord Carew’s Bride is a great place to start. I’d rank it as a must-read for fans of the genre.
Rating Report Card
Plot
4.5
Characters
4.5
Writing
4.5
Chemistry
4
Fun Factor
4.5
Cover
4.5
Overall:
4.4
Synopsis
Samantha Newman is getting older, but though she is beautiful and courted by a large number of gentlemen, she is restless and unhappy. While she is staying in the country with her friends Jennifer and Gabriel, she takes a walk alone and wanders onto the property of the reclusive Marquess of Carew. She meets him far from the house and mistakes him for a landscape designer. He is an ordinary-looking man and is half crippled. He is also friendly and unassuming, and Samantha soon relaxes into a warm friendship with him.
It is only much later, back in London, when she is again threatened by the man who broke her heart years ago during her come-out Season, that Samantha discovers who her friend really is. And this time she is tempted to settle for the contentment of friendship in order to escape the pain of love.
For this Top Ten Tuesday post, Jacqueline Diaz lists ten bookish people she’d like to meet. Almost all her choices are relevant to the books in the romance genre.
It’s Top Ten Tuesday, where we post a list of 10 of our best/favorite/most important bookish-related items, depending on the week’s theme. Thank you to That Artsy Reader Girl for providing us with this feature and creative ideas.
“Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.”
10 Bookish People (Alive, Dead, or Fictional) I Would Like Meet
This Top Ten Tuesday theme is: “pick a previous topic that you missed or would like to re-do/update.” I missed posting on March 7 (and I almost missed posting today!). The topic that week was “10 Bookish People I’d Like To Meet,” which is my list for Tuesday March 21.
The subject was rather broad, and I chose people from different segments of the book industry, living, deceased, or fictional.
Because there are so many choices, this was a tough one.The bloggers section was particularly hard; there are so many people I would adore meeting in real life, but I was limited to just one person per category!
1. All-Around Bookish Renaissance Woman: Kathryn Le Veque
Kathryn Le Veque
If I had to name one bookish person who inspires me, it would be Kathryn Le Veque. Her achievements are amazing–intimidating, even. LeVeque is an inspirational success story proving an author’s dreams can come true.
A USA Today bestselling author, an Amazon All-Star author, and a #1 bestsellier of medieval historical romance and contemporary romance, she has blazed a trail for others to follow.
Le Veque is a tour-de force leader in the industry. She pens unique novels, mostly medievals, and is the founder of several publishing houses, including Dragonblade Publishing.
When Le Veque started out the big publishers rejected her manuscripts. They said her chosen genre not being considered “marketable enough.” Defiant and determined, Kathryn had vision and saw it through.
She uploaded her first novel for purchase on Amazon’s Kindle platform in May 2012. A year later, she was able to quit her day job to focus on her writing full-time. All thanks to the phenomenal success of her e-books.
She writes remarkable stories about knights, kings, and queens. History plays a starring role in her books, not merely a backdrop. Her stories are unique, emotional and deeply touching. Through her many novels and hard work Le Veque has earned the admiration of her peers and fans.
Publishers shut her out of mainstream because she didn’t adhere to the current trends. Kathryn proved them to be fools, self-publishing the books she wanted to to write–and read. She found a large and devoted audience eager to read her stories. On top of that, she built an indie publishing empire to help others succeed.
Who wouldn’t want to talk to a renaissance woman like Kathryn Le Veque?
2. Author (Deceased): Jackie Collins
Have you ever wished you could talk to a great writer whois no longer living? For me, that would be Jackie Collins. She was the brilliant, bold, and wildly successful author of over 30 novels that shocked and entertained readers worldwide.
Her career spanned from 1968 with The World Is Full of Married Men to her final work, The Santangelos in 2015. Her bestsellers detailed the glamorous and sordid lives of celebrities.
As actress Joan Collins’ younger sister, Jackie had access to the inner workings of the showbiz industry. She smashed through the conventions of polite society with her books. Collins penned raunchy romantic thrillers. Filled with crimes, sex, drugs, and rock & roll, they went beyond what other writers of her era would touch.
With over 500 million books sold, Collins was one of the most influential and fun icons of American literary history. Some of her acclaimed works include Chances,Lucky and Hollywood Wives.
Chatting with her would be a dream come true. What stories she could tell!
3. Author (Living): Rebecca Brandewyne
Rebeca Brandewyne Source: Wichita State University, The Shocker
Rebecca Brandewyne is a romance author who has not written in years. I would be delighted to sit down and see what she has been up to
When I started reading romances in the early to mid-1990s, Rebecca Brandewyne, along with Jude Deveraux and Johanna Lindsey, was one of my favorite authors. Her books were grandiose and epic. They began with a prologue and ended with a happy epilogue, and included a poem and cast of characters at the beginning of the book.
As Brandwyne’s health issues were one of the reasons behind her leaving the writing field, I would ask her how she is faring now. It would be fascinating to learn what she has been up to all these years. I’d want to talk about her works, her writing style, and her current ideas on the genre.
Finally, I would inquire about the two series she never completed. How she would have ended her fantasy trilogy of the Chronicles of Tintagel, which began in Passion Moon Rising?
Most importantly, what was to be the conclusion for her unfinished Highclyffe Hall trilogy? What was to happen with the “twins” Ransom and Rhodes Chandler, who were born in Across a Starlit Sea? And what of their parents and grandparents?
I would love to know the answers to those questions!
4. Book Blogger/ Reviewer: Nenia Campbell
Nenia Campbell Source: Goodreads
Nenia Campbell is a multi-talented lady whose name can go in at least four other bookish categories. I chose her for the book blogger I’d want to meet.
What’s cool about Nenia is she reads everything. Nonfiction, general fiction, and the entire spectrum of the romance genre. She reads sweet teen romances, bodice rippers, the latest contemporaries, vintage Harlequins, and bizarre treats like Mating with the Mantis!
“I don’t typically like what’s popular because I don’t like what’s predictable or easy; I like books that are raw and difficult and dark and challenge me and the way that I see the world, even if it means heartbreak and tears and playing hours of Animal Crossing to get myself back into the happy zone.”
Plus, Nenia is very prolific on social media. She discussws all things bookish and posts images ofholding many beautiful books and of herself in lovely colorful wigs.
Nenia seems like such a passionate and creative reader and book lover that I could glean so much from a conversation with her. I also adore her sense of fashion, so I’m sure our talks would be an enlightening and hair-raising experience!
As far as fictional bookish people I’d love to meet, it would be the egg-headed protagonist from Agatha Christie’s long-running mystery series. The elegantly dressed Belgian detective Hercule Poirot is a most fascinating character. He solved the mysteriesof the Murder on The Orient Express, The ABC Murdersand Death on the Nile, and many more.
Poirot is one of the most iconic crime-solvers in fiction, far more interesting to me than Sherlock Holmes. I’d like to pick his brain and learn some detective tips and tricks. And some fashion tips! Il est un homme très sophistiqué.
I would start the conversation by expressing admiration for Poirot’s skills and intellect and asking him to share the secrets of his success. His perspective on human psychology is pivotal to his investigations. How does he know what he knows? What techniques does he uses to solve murders?
I’d also ask him about the cases that were the most memorable or challenging for him. What is his opinion on the state of modern detective work? What advice he would give to aspiring detectives?
Then I’d dive into the details of his fashion sense, which is always so dapper. I’d love to hear his advice on how to look smart and stay stylish, as well as his thoughts on current trends in men’s clothing.
6. Cover Artist: Victor Gadino
Victor Gadino and Apollo
If I could talk to any book cover artist, it would be Victor Gadino. He is one of the top romance novel cover artists of all time. Gadino has created hundreds of beautiful and sensual covers.
His amazing stepbacks make him one of Sweet Savage Flame’s favorite illustrators.
I would love to talk to him about his creative process and how he designs such beautiful and sensual covers.
Victor Gadino was born in New York in 1949. His big break in book illustration came in the late 1970s when he designed romantic-styled covers for gay fiction. Avon reissued Gordon Merrick’s backlist of books, for which Gadino did al the new artwork.
He was a designed covers for many years, but his rise to prominence in the genre came with Johanna Lindsey’s Prisoner of My Desire in 1991, making him a highly sought-after romance illustrator.
He has also designed album covers for well-known performers, Broadway play posters, and collectibles for the Bradford Exchange and Franklin Mint. His work is in the homes of celebrities such as George Lucas and Clint Eastwood, as well as many famous New York City families.
A creator of sensual images, Victor Gadino is the artist I would be honored to meet. I’d be delighted to hear whatever he had to say and, if possible, to observe him at work on his paintings.
7. Cover Model: Fabio
If I could talk to any romance book cover model, it would be the great Fabio Lanzoni. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you the details about Fabio. After all, he’s the supermodel whose face and body have been launched millions of covers.
Plus, he’s also a romance writer himself (even if he had some help from ghostwriters.)
Being a successful cover model and the author, I’m sure he has a great deal of creative insight and inspiration to share.
Fabio’s unique perspective as a romance genre celebrity would provide a lot of fun stories and anecdotes.
The questions I’d ask Fabio would be simple: I’d ask him about his modeling experiences, his favorite covers, which artists he thinks painted him best.
Honestly, Fabio wouldn’t have to say much. At 60, he’s still fine. As I’m 45 now and not the 13-year-old girl who imagined him as the hero of numerous romances, it’s okay to appreciate that eye candy that is Fabio Lanzoni.
‘
I’m certain a chat with Fabio would spark the creative energy to follow my own dreams with renewed vigor.
And maybe he’d let me squeeze his biceps to get a feel those rock-hard muscles? Would that be wrong? Oh, well a girl can dream…
8. Bookstagrammer: Mary Lynne Nielsen
Mary Lynne Nielsen Source: Romance Ruminations
Bookstagrammer: Mary Lynne Nielsen
Mary Lynne Nielsen has been reading romance for 45 years and has a wealth of information about books and the business.
“I’ve been reading romance for a long time–over forty years. And over that time I’ve managed to produce a few pieces of writing of my own. Rather than having them scattered hither and yon, or not even available, I decided to create a centralized home for them. Hence, my ruminations on romance.
“I make no claims of expertise, wisdom, knowledge, or the like. But I do have, as so many readers do, a deep and abiding love of the often maligned genre of romance.”
-Mary Lynn Nielsen
A prolific bookstagrammer under the handle @emmelnie, she is one of many people whom I’d like to chat with in person. Social media is great for meeting lots of great folks. Unfortunately, because I am a slow typist with ADHD, I am unable to participate in lengthy debates.
Mary Lynne has written articles for blogs and magazines, posted educational videos about the genre, attended conventions, and spoken with/interviewed prominent figures in the industry, academics and fans alike.
I’d be delighted to meet at a coffee shop near a used book store and hear her thoughts on the evolution of the genre, her favorite books and authors, and her advice for aspiring writers and readers.
Basically, we would discuss everything there is possible about our romance and then go book shopping!
9. Publisher or Editor: Steven Zacharius, President & CEO at Kensington Publishing Corp
Publisher or Editor: Steven Zacharius
As far as bookish people on the business side of the industry, I’d enjoy a sit-down with Steve Zacharius. He is the president and CEO of Kensington Books, the parent company of Zebra and Pinnacle. Kenisgton is a multi-million dollar family-run company founded in 1974 by Steve’s dad, Walter Zacharius.
With almost 30 years of experience in the company, Steve has led Kensington’s growth and expansion. I am curious to hear his thoughts on the industry and how he has kept Kensington relevant and successful for so long.
Steve is married with two kids and three grandkids. His son, Adam Zacharius, has also been working there since 2008.
Kensington is one of the last large, privately owned book publishers in the United States. It releases over 500 fiction and nonfiction titles each year.
I would ask him about the challenges that Kensington and the industry as a whole have faced, as well as his insights on the current state and future of the publishing industry.
I’d love to hear his thoughts about the potential death of the mass market paperback, as sales have dropped rapidly for that format in the past several years. E-books have usurped their position as the most convenient and cheapest way to read.
Although romance is genre that still thrives in MMP, trade and hardcover are rising in popularity, especially for the readers who love to display their books on shelves.
Might Kensington’s Zebra imprint also return its focus to dazzling cover art as it did when his father Walter was alive?
10. Podcaster: Andrea Martucci, of Shelf Love
There a several bookish people in podcasting I would appreciate having a chat with. To start , I’d talktot the staff of Shelf Love, particularly the woman-in-charge of it all: Andrea Martucci.
Shelf Love explores fictional stories of romantic love across media, time, and cultures. Their knowledge of romance novels and bodice rippers is vast, and I would enjoy discussing different genres of romance novels with them.
The podcast invites experts to share their knowledge and love for diverse genres and explore romantic love in romance novels, comic books, soap operas, romantic comedies, video games, oral stories, advertisements, and more.
Andrea has presented a paper at the Popular Culture Association and has released nearly 100 episodes since the podcast’s launch in 2019.
Andrea is familiar with so many facets of romance, not just in books, but throughout all pop culture. I’d be thrilled to converse with Andrea about anything and everything. I would ask her about her favorite romance books, her thoughts on different genres, and her insights on the role of love stories in popular culture. What are her favorite couples and love stories in other forms of entertainment?
I could pick her brain for hours. Metaphorically speaking, of course. I’m no zombie!
First episode of Shelf Love Podcast w/ Andrea Martucci
Your Opinion
What do you think of this week’s Top Ten Tuesday theme of “bookish people I want to meet”? Do you like Jacqueline’s list? Would you like to meet any of her choices?
What bookish people would you like to meet?
As always, please drop a comment and let’s talk romance.
We’re celebrating the arrival of Spring and the Vernal Equinox for 2023. Spring is a time to celebrate romance. So we are celebrating with some jokes to tickle your punny bone.
Let’s Celebrate Spring’s Arrival
Welcome to the first day of Spring 2023, marked by the Vernal Equinox! Spring is our second favoriteseason after Autumn, so we love to celebrate its official arrival.
We’ll discuss the special reasons we love this season. Plus, we’ve got some really terrible jokes to keep you in good spirits this Spring Day!
The Vernal Equinox
This year, the Vernal Equinox occurs on March 20th, the moment when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, making day and night almost equal in length. The word “vernal” comes from the Latin word “vernalis,” which means “of the spring.”
The Vernal Equinox is an astronomical occurrence that signals the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a time when the sun appears to rise earlier in the morning and set later in the evening. This signals the arrival of longer days and shorter nights.
The equal distribution of sunlight to both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres places all things in balance. After the Vernal Equinox, the Northern Hemisphere will tilt more towards the sun, causing longer days and warmer temperatures.
And warm temperatures mean the weather will be nice and placid.
Except for March when it’s still cold. So it can still snow!
And April, when it rains all month long! T.S. Eliot was right about April being the cruelest month. The world seems to vibrate with unpredictable energies. In my experience, April is truly th wild card month, where anything and everything can happen.
Finally, in the last days of April, the world turns into a kaleidoscope of greens and pinks and yellows and white hues.
May is truly beautiful. The most glorious flowers are in bloom, and things really warm up as we move closer to summer. In some parts of the country–or the world–May is summer!
Still, the nights get may get chilly enough to cuddle next to the one you love.
The arrival of spring is associated with the rebirth and renewal of life. Trees and plants begin to bloom with new leaves and flowers. The birds return from their winter migration. It also means humans start to get friskier as the weather gets more pleasant.
The Spring sun really does wonders for the libido!
This burst of new life–i.e., the horniness–is what makes this season one of hope and optimism.
Finally, a true bodice ripper historical series for us to enjoy! Great news! Bertrice Small’s epic erotic romance, Skye O’Malley, is coming soon to your TV!
Major News About Bertrice Small
Sweet Savage Flame has some exciting breaking news to report! It’s very unusual for an old-school romance blog like ours to divulge or discuss any current events. But today, we are! First Outlander, then Bridgerton, and now: The Late Queen of Erotic Romance’s magnum opus bodice ripper is coming to the screen!
Bertrice Small’s story of Skye O’Malley and her six husbands—and numerous lovers—will be coming to your homes as a major TV series!
Tom Small, son of Bertrice and her husband George, posted a video on Facebookon Sunday, March 19, stating the official news. After five years of trying to find someone he could trust to treat his mother’s intellectual property with respect, all parties involved have come to an agreement.
This news is not just a possibility; it’s a done deal. Small has already signed the papers of a contract to bring the incomparable heroine’s life story to a new audience.
Bodice Ripper Skye O’Malley Series To Air on Apple Plus+
Tom Small stated he signed the rights of the 12 books in the O’Malley family saga over to a trusted source. That source negotiated a deal with ApplePlus + to bring the tale of Skye O’Malley–and her lusty relatives and descendants–to home audiences.
Tom is thankful to all the fans who have been anxious to see this happen. He also thanks ApplePlus+ and (even, LOL) the folks at Penguin, the publishers who had held the rights to her books for years.
Bertrice would undoubtedly be proud and delighted with her son’s endeavors. His determination and diligent efforts to make one of her dearest wishes come true would make any mother proud.
Bertrice Small’s Legacy and the Skye O’Malley Series
Bertrice Small passed away on February 24, 2015. Her husband, George, predeceased her by three years. Tom Small was their only child. Since Bertrice’s death, her son has maintained a Facebook account devoted to keeping the memory of his mother and her books alive.
Bertrice Small, nee Williams, was born in New York City in 1937 and lived most of her life on Long Island, in the town of Southold. Since her first book, 1978’s The Kadin, Small consistently produced erotic romances starring impossibly beautiful heroines who experienced multiple romantic adventures.
Small was a pioneer not only in the romance genre but also in erotic romance. Her novels were far more sexual than the average book of the early days of the modern romance era. However, they were not anywhere near as explicit as modern erotic romances.
Her historical romance romps were heavy on purple prose. That was the style of the era, after all. Small knew how to master the language, and master it she did!
She wrote 61 books and sold millions worldwide.
Past Attempts to Produce Bodice Ripper Romance Movies Failed
Many years ago, Bertrice Small had been in talks with several people in the film and television industries to adapt her books to the screen. As these talks always came to nothing, Small was convinced there was no future for her books as shows or movies.
“David Bowie was the secret producer and a young Catherine Zeta Jones was being bandied around to Skye, but that all fell through. And it kind of discouraged my mom. And when I’d bring it up in the future ‘Why don’t we try again? You should try again.’
“‘Nah Hollywood doesn’t want it that.’ I could tell she was dejected.”
–Tom Small
Tom encouraged her to try again, but the process disillusioned Small. The industry didn’t want anything to do with her kind of novels, and she didn’t have the stomach to try again.
We’ve previously mentioned that in the early 1980s, Kathleen E. Woodiwiss had been in talks with several Hollywood producers to have Shanna—arguably her finest book—into a film. Shanna sold 3 million copies and spent almost a year on The NY Times bestseller list.
Ultimately, Woodiwiss was told that romantic epic films weren’t profitable enough to justify their existence. Audiences wanted to see historical sagas about wars and battles, not love stories.
If the most prominent romance writer of her day couldn’t convince Hollywood, how would others fare? It seemed as if the romance genre was to be shut out of the industry altogether.
That wasn’t necessarily the case, however, as television channels like CBS and Cinemax would adapt romances into movies or even miniseriesthroughout the years. Admittedly, these were typically small-scale and low-budget flicks that catered to a niche audience.
The Modern Era of Television Series Loves Romance Novels
In the 21st century, the successes of the Twilight and Fifty Shades of Grey movies proved that adaptations indeed could be profitable. As television supplanted cinema as the hot spot for viewing entertainment, networks and production companies came looking for romance novels to transform into series.
Sweet Savage Flame is especially excited by the news. We are thrilled that romance novels are getting the love and recognition from the entertainment industry they have always deserved.
However, there has been a noticeable absence of bodice rippers. These books did much heavy lifting for the romance genre in its early days. Many outsiders have viewed our beloved ‘rippers with disdain. (And some insiders, too!)
It’s been a long time coming, but we’re glad to hear this news and pass it on to you. Finally, after years of being ignored, romance novels are getting their well-deserved mainstream appreciation!
As for news on Small’s final and unpublished book, Serena, Tom Small is still in the works to have it released. When that happens, we will let you know.
We’re offering a free printable reading planner/ log for your convenience to use in 2023 to keep track of your reading list.
New Season, New Turning of the Wheel of Time
It’s Spring, which in many religions and societies is also the new year. We’re a bit late for the New Year in January (or theLunar New Year, for that matter), but it’s never too late for new resolutions.
We’re familiar with those goals. You could mightwant to get in good shape, spend more time with family, or go on a trip.
Whatever you do, it’s important to follow through on objectives and keep the momentum rolling.
Our resolution is trying to get more organized, And what better way to do that than with a reading/log planner? How about a free one?
Free 8-Page Reading Journal: Easy to Download and Print
We’ve made a free 8-page printable reading planner/ log. This may help you get organized–at least where reading is concerned. The first page is a cover, and the second is a 2023 calendar, so you need only to print them once. Then print worksheet pages 3 to 8 as many times as you need to have an entire journal you can use all year long.
The printables feature spaces for setting goals, logging your daily reading progress, and tracking books you’ve read.
What’s more, our reading planner and log are entirely free to download and print. In order to get it, all you have to do is click the download button to access the PDF. You can print the sheets as many times as you need, making it perfect for those who want to monitor their progress.
Whether you’re a voracious reader or trying to read more, our reading planner and the log is the perfect tool to help you achieve your reading goals. It’s easy to use, customizable to your preferences, and, best of all, completely free!
Click on the link below to download a free 8-page PDF reading planner kit. Print as many sheets as needed.
This free printable planner lets you create your specialized reading journal. Use them for your reading lists and notes, and take notes on your progress.
So why not give it a try? Download our reading planner/reading log, and start tracking your reading progress to make 2023 a year full of new and exciting reading adventures.
We’ll be offering more printables and freebies in 2023. Happy reading!
We’re listing ten books on our to-be-read list for Spring 2023 for this week’s Top Ten Tuesday theme.
Top Ten Tuesday
It’s Top Ten Tuesday, where depending on the week’s theme, we post a list of 10 of our best/favorite/most important bookish-related items.
Thank you to That Artsy Reader Girl for providing us with this feature and for the creative ideas.
“Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.”
This week’s theme for Top Ten Tuesday is “Spring 2023 Books to Read.”
We had to tweak this list a bit, as we always try to do things as far ahead as possible. So rather than this list consisting of books-to-be-read, they are books-to-be-reviewed. Introvert Reader has read almost all the books listed below, so look out for these ten reviews in the upcoming months.
1. Historical Bodice Ripper: The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen Woodiwiss
Doomed to a life of unending toil, Heather Simmons fears for her innocence — until a shocking, desperate act forces her to flee… and to seek refuge in the arms of a virile and dangerous stranger.
A lusty adventurer married to the sea, Captain Brandon Birmingham courts scorn and peril when he abducts the beautiful fugitive from the tumultuous London dockside. But no power on Earth can compel him to relinquish his exquisite prize. For he is determined to make the sapphire-eyed lovely his woman… and to carry her off to far, uncharted realms of sensuous, passionate love.
THE FLAME AND THE FLOWER BY KATHLEEN E. WOODIWISS
2. Traditional Regency: Lord Carew’s Bride by Mary Balogh
Samantha Newman is getting older, but though she is beautiful and courted by a large number of gentlemen, she is restless and unhappy. While she is staying in the country with her friends Jennifer and Gabriel, she takes a walk alone and wanders onto the property of the reclusive Marquess of Carew.
She meets him far from the house and mistakes him for a landscape designer. He is an ordinary-looking man and is half crippled. He is also friendly and unassuming, and Samantha soon relaxes into a warm friendship with him.
It is only much later, back in London, when she is again threatened by the man who broke her heart years ago during her come-out Season, that Samantha discovers who her friend really is. And this time she is tempted to settle for the contentment of friendship in order to escape the pain of love.
Lord Carew’s Bride by Mary Balogh
3. Harlequin Historical: Sun Woman by Lindsay McKenna
BRANDED A TRAITOR…
Desperate to save the last of her family, Kuchana had become a scout for the
army. To the young Apache, the return of her people to the reservation seemed the only way to ensure their continued survival. Her chosen path was not an easy one, but the promise of a future with Gib McCoy gave her the will to complete her journey.
Lieutenant Gib McCoy had known his share of women, but the pampered eastern ladies of his past paled next to Kuchana’s ethereal beauty. Her courage drew him to her like a moth to the flame. He could not protect her from the jealousy and prejudice that surrounded them, but he knew he would not rest until she was in his arms forever.
SUN WOMAN BY LINDSAY MCKENNA
4. Silhouette Desire: Wrong Address Right Place by Lass Small
THE COMFORT INN
Linda Parsons was excited about her first business trip–and a shambles of a bed-and-breakfast place wasn’t going to dampen her spirit. Especially since ruggedly sexy innkeeper Mitch Roads seemed determined to make her stay enjoyable. There was certainly nothing wrong with this perfect specimen of a man, and his all-too-personal kisses soon drove all professional matters out of Linda’s mind.
Mitch knew Linda had come to the wrong address, but she was too beautiful to turn away. He’d play host and win her heart. But Mitch quickly learned that Linda despised liars. If she found out about his charade, would she check out–for good? Or could he convince her to make a lifetime reservation?
Wrong Address Right Place by Lass Small
5. Harlequin Temptation: Two Can Play by Emma Jane Spenser
They were playing a dangerous game
Private Investigator Natalie Tracy specialized in finding what was lost–missing kids, family heirlooms–so a treasure hunt piqued her curiosity. She’d been hired to unravel the clues hidden in the pages of The Quest. Her first step was to track down the elusive author, Alexander Garrick. That’s when she learned a new set of rules….
Rule #1: Despite her attraction to Alex, she couldn’t trust him.
Rule #2: She only had three weeks to solve the riddle, but her future happiness depended on it.
Rule #3: In a game where winner takes all, the stakes became her life!
Two Can Play by Emma Jane Spenser
6. Silhouette Intimate Moments: Paintbox Morning by Kathleen Eagle
SWEET VENGEANCE …
Miguel Hidalgo had been left for dead by the minions of De Colores’s evil dictator, but he was very much alive—and determined to exact revenge and return his country to freedom. But even a man of Miguel’s determination and talents couldn’t accomplish that alone. He needed Veronica Harper.
Ronnie had flown into De Colores on a mission of mercy only to find herself hijacked at gunpoint, forced to fly the handsomest man she’d ever seen to safety. Soon guns were no longer necessary because once Ronnie heard Miguel’s story, she was eager to help him rescue his island home and even more eager to spend the future by his side.
Paintbox Morning by Kathleen Eagle
7. Harlequin Presents: The Shining of Love by Emma Darcy
Dedicated to her husband and their work at a rural Australian outback clinic, Suzanne had rejected the temptation Leith Carew had offered.
But he’d taken away her inner peace, just as she’d taken his. And when their paths crossed again, the longing that coursed through Suzanne’s body could no longer be denied. Except this time, Leigh was not free…
The Shining of Love by Emma Darcy
8. Paranormal/Science Fiction/Futuristic Romance: Passion Moon Rising by Rebecca Brandewyne
Ileana – The cherished princess of a brave and noble land. Violet-eyed, silver-haired, she was graced with beauty, pride and passion … born with a great gift and a rare destiny.Cain – A warrior prince who denied the danger that could destroy him. He lived by his courage and his instincts, and from the moment he gazed on Ileana, he knew nothing would vanquish his desire.
In each other’s arms, they shared a rich and wondrous love that brought them to exquisite ecstasy. But in a fierce and fiery clash of wills, their union was torn by betrayal and mistrust. Now, as their kingdoms are plunged into the terror of war, they must take up the only weapon that can save their world … the power that blazes in the blackest of nights – the gleaming sword of love!
Passion Moon Rising by Rebecca Brandewyne
9. Western Historical Romance: Temptation’s Trail by Dana Ransom
HERO FOR HIRE… When Amanda Duncan headed West to find her missing brother, she knew she was a little out of her element. Her privileged upbringing in a fancy boarding school hadn’t prepared her for the perils of frontier Texas. So, she made a plan-all she had to do was hire a hero. But when legendary gunslinger Harmon Bass showed up, he wasn’t what she expected at all. True, he was gorgeous beyond belief, but he was also unarmed! What kind of hero didn’t carry a gun?
LADY FOR LOVE… Rugged half-breed Harmon Bass needed a job that paid well and disguised his true mission. What ha got was an irritating and irresistible trail partner who could not ride, shoot or keep quiet! Yet with every move she made, he wanted her more! Maybe it was Amanda’s sheer pluck…or unexpected courage…or the way her beautiful brown eyes glowed with sensual fire. Here was a woman to tempt and torment him-the woman he’d been waiting for all of his life. Now, as he and the feisty eastern beauty crossed a wilderness dogged by crooked lawmen and avenging outlaws, Harm only prayed they lived long enough to calm the love that waited at the end of…TEMPTATION’S TRAIL
Temptation’s Trail by Dana Ransom
10. Harlequin Super Romance/ Full-Length Contemporary: The Hellion by LaVyrle Spencer
TWO HEARTS . . . WORLDS APART
RACHEL. The image of elegance, social standing, and beauty, she had barely recovered from her husband’s death when the wildest, most passionate flame of her youth stepped into her life, once again…
TOMMY LEE. The all-time hellraiser of Russellville, Alabama, he had three marriages behind him and a string of fast cars and women. The townsfolk said he’d never change. But Rachel knew differently…
One they were high school sweethearts, too young and reckless to handle the consequences of their love. Now, twenty-four years later, Tommy Lee could still excite Rachel like no other man. Maybe this time, they could make it work. In spite of his wild reputation…the local gossip…or Rachel’s questioning heart.
The Hellion by LaVyrle Spencer
That’s Ten Weeks of Spring Reading
Overall, this Spring will be a season of romance and adventure as we dive into our top ten book picks. We can’t wait to review all these fantastic romance novels and share our opinions with you.
Thanks again to That Artsy Reader Girl for organizing Top Ten Tuesday and giving us fun ideas each week!
Your Opinion
What books are on your Spring TBR list? Or is it more like a pile than a list? What do you think of our to-be-read list for Spring 2023?
As always, please drop a comment, and let’s talk romance.
One Night, four men–Garrett Flye, Louis Plummer, and brothers Delmond “Del” LaCroix and Cameron “Kirk” LaCroix, the “hero” of the book–go to a restaurant to watch a performance given by a dancer. The dancer in question is Elena Maria Constancia Fantasia de Montega–to use her full nomenclature. She is known as “Tazia” for short and is the book’s heroine.
Unknown to the men, Tazia and the four men share a tragic history. One of the four men listed above killed Tazia’s brother, Manolo, and Tazia is determined to find out which one and punish him.
Tazia and Kirk marry, but after four months, they separate due to their secrets. Tazia returns to her home, Casa del Sol, in California. There, she faces more sadness and shock. By virtue of their marriage and the archaic, sexist laws of the 1800s, Kirk– her estranged husband– owns Tazia’s family home now.
This leads to another rift between the couple. The arrival of Tazia and Kirk’s daughter, Mercy, mends the rift.
Two of the other men arrive at Casa del Sol and find happiness.
The fourth man, however, is lurking to destroy the happiness of the other three. As part of that process, he kidnaps Tazia and Mercy. The wife of one of the other men loses her life. Kirk and company rescue Tazia and Mercy, both of whom are unharmed. And ultimately, they solve the mystery of Manolo’s death. Subsequently, the killer is disposed of.
And there is a Happily Ever After for the three couples, although not in a linear way.
Tazia’s Torment, ReIssue, Zebra, 1985 cover artist TBD
The Upside
Tazia’s Torment is, in a way, a book that would establish Mrs. Sommerfield’s writing style. It has a bit of emotion, some depth to her characters, and special attention placed on her supporting characters.
The Downside
Mrs. Sommerfield didn’t delve as deep into her characters as I would have liked to see. I felt there was more SHE COULD HAVE REVEALED ABOUT THEM.
The early tone of the book is patronizing to Tazia. This is due to the attitude of the male characters: “We need to save Tazia because we know things she doesn’t.”
Finally, the ending of the book is very weak sauce. I thought the storyline of one of the men falling in “instaluv” with and marrying his deceased wife’s sister was creepy.
Sex
There are a few sex scenes. These are not really descriptive in any way, nor are they terribly romantic.
Steam Level: As Senora Elena Maria Constancia Fantasia de Montega de LaCroix might say: “La pasión es tan tibia como el agua del baño del bebé.”
(The passion is as lukewarm as a baby’s bathwater).
Violence
Tazia is raped several times. Del is shot. In the end, the good guys kill the villain.
The violence is not graphic.
Bottom Line on Tazia’s Torment
Sylvie F. Sommerfield’s California-set bodice ripper Tazia’s Torment is not a bad book. However, it is not as good as it could have been.
Rating Report Card
Plot
3
Characters
3
Writing
3.5
Chemistry
3
Fun Factor
3
Cover
2.5
Overall:
3
Synopsis
SHE BURNED WITH LOVE…AND LUSTED FOR REVENGE
Beautiful and tempestuous Fantasia de Montega aroused passion in every man who was fortunate enough to see her dance. And though many tried, none could learn where this mysterious and unapproachable beauty came from, or why she disappeared after every show.
But no one who beheld her could have guessed her dark secret—her mission of revenge—or the cruel trick of fate that would make her unwittingly fall in love with the very man she had vowed to kill….
Irish Roses–wild or not–are the focus of this edition of Covers of the Week. St. Patrick’s Day is coming up soon, so Erin go Bragh!
Theme: Irish Roses
The rose is the flower most often associated with romance. Regarding book titles, it’s the go-to blossom for the genre, followed by jasmine, lily, and heather. (Personally, I prefer tulips. But I can see how that might make for awkward-sounding titles.)
Because St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching, we thought displaying romances with Irish Rose covers would be fitting.
Having no idea what an actual Irish rose looked like, I was surprised to discover that “the official Irish Rose” (L. Aeonium arboreum) is a succulent. Succulents are hearty plants that, like cacti, should be easy for anyone to maintain. (Not me; every cactus and succulent to have been under my brown thumb came to a bad, sad end).
Originally native to North Africa and the Canary Islands, the rosette succulent forms branches that grow little bushes of bright yellow blossoms with star-shaped petals, which soon dies after the flowers bloom.
As for the wild Irish rose, Ireland is home to a wide variety of these floral beauties, including many hybrid forms. Each county boasts that their native–and naturalized–roses that climb hedgerows, hug rocky shores, or dot sandy land, are the most stunning to be found.
Most of these wildflowers bloom in June and July, their white, pink, and purple blossoms adding bright bursts of color to the Emerald Isle.
Around this time last year, Covers of the Week #49 also had an Irish theme. Since we already used Nora Roberts‘ Irish Rose for that edition, one of the four titles here is not like the others. Even so, the book’s Irish setting and the cover’s loveliness make up for the slight inconsistency.
The Covers
For the week of Monday, March 6, 2023, to Sunday, March 12, 2023, our Covers of the Week theme is the Irish Roses.
Irish Rose Covers (from Left to Right, Top to Bottom)
The Irish Rose, Jessica Wulf, Zebra, 1994, “Asif” cover art
Wild Irish Rose, Lisa Ann Verge, Zebra, 1997, Pino cover art
Why they chose this ho-hum Carole Mortimer entry when she’s written many more books that—although they might not have been the best of the best—at least had some sizzle to them, is a mystery to me. It only reinforced my belief that the editors gave this distinction to authors with long careers as a “pat on the back” for their overall body of work, not because a story was particularly riveting.
The Plot
Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden
The plot of this one is a little cringy. Alas, it’s not cringe-worthy for the good “bad” reasons that an HP or Mills & Boon can be. Eve Eden—yes, that’s the heroine’s name—is a British woman with a secret. She keeps it so well hidden that not even her beloved fiancé knows of it.
Adam Gardener—yup, that’s the hero’s name—is an American art businessman (yeah, I know that’s not the accurate term, but Adam’s demeanor shouts cocksure US capitalist, not fine art lover) in the UK searching for the elusive “Unicorn.” The Unicorn is a painter whose works have caused quite a stir in the art scene. But no one knows who this mysterious Unicorn is.
Have you guessed their identity already?
When Adam meets Eve, he knows they’re meant for one another—their names decree it so! He pursues her relentlessly, even if she is engaged to a dull fiancé. Eve has loved her fiancé Paul for years. Why? Beats the heck out of me. Sure, their names are Biblical, but she’s Old Testament, and he’s New Testament–an obvious sign they were never meant to be.
Paul’s Not Really the Marrying Kind, Anyway
Paul doesn’t speak to her kindly and ditches her at a party to mingle with important people. This allows Adam to tell Eve how horrible Paul is. He berates her for being such a shortsighted fool and scolds her for letting her boyfriend treat her like crap. So Eve should ditch that zero and hook up with him, the book’s hero.
Then one day, Adam plants a big old Yankee kiss on her, which gets Eve hot and bothered. She realizes, “Oh, I’m supposed to be attracted to the guy I want to marry, not just like him for “reasons.” So she dumps Paul, and Adam is there to gobble her up.
Ultimately, Adam gets proof that Paul was stealing Eve’s fortune right from under her nose. Eve was too busy with her art to count her millions, and multitasking was not for her. Seriously this girl was just so passive!
No worries, Adam is mega-rich, and Eve can paint her brilliant pieces to heart’s content on either side of the Atlantic.
The art scene in the early 1990s was très avant-garde.
Adam Gardener and Eve Eden (The Stupidest Names Ever for a Couple in a Romance Novel)
Adam was like a single-minded predator, a shark fixated on what he wanted to eat (Eve tacos). He was so overbearing; it was actually charming. Adam was the lone bright spot in this book, but his flame was not strong enough to make this thing sizzle.
Eve is a placid, non-entity of a character. All she wants is to be left alone to paint her pictures and marry Paul. Her grandparents left her a windfall, so Eve could afford to live as she pleased. (Eve’s an orphan, naturalment). She has a cousin who makes googly eyes at Adam, but there’s nothin’ doin’ there.
Final Analysis of Elusive as the Unicorn
Elusive as the Unicorn was one in a string of mediocre Harlequin Presents that I read in the spring of 1990, which made me temporarily lose interest in the line in favor of the more lusty Temptation romances. I thank the “reading gods” for authors Robyn Donald, Violet Winspear, and especially Charlotte Lamb for drawing me back in with their over-the-top cruel heroes and insane plots.
This book wasn’t horrid, but it wasn’t exciting or angsty. While I appreciated (and still do) that Carole Mortimer was one of the few authors in the Presents line who wrote blond heroes, if Elusive as the Unicorn was an example of the best of her works, I wasn’t interested in reading more. Thankfully, it turned out that Mortimer wrote many, many books, and this award-winning romance was by no means the best of them.
This is a romance I’m glad to say I’ve read—for historical reasons, not out of enjoyment.
Rating Report Card
Plot
2.5
Characters
2.5
Writing
2
Chemistry
2
Fun Factor
2
Cover
3
Overall:
2.3
Synopsis
Eve Eden considered Adam forbidden fruit
When Eve Eden discovered that Adam Gardener, successful art entrepreneur, was searching for the legendary English artist, The Unicorn, she nervously shied away. The Unicorn’s true identity hit too close to home….
Besides, Eve was rattled by Adam’s mesmerizing presence, especially in light of the ridiculous coincidence of their names–and his determination to take advantage of it! But Eve was already engaged to marry her longtime friend, Paul.
Yet Eve found herself troubled by the different choices Adam and Paul presented. If only the answer to her dilemma didn’t keep eluding her….
As always, we publish our favorite Covers of the Week every Sunday. These are the posts for the month gone by. You can also access the past Covers of the Week via the main menu at the top of every page.
