Title: The Baron's honorable Daughter
Author: Lynn Morris
Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Plot: Valeria Segrave is the step-daughter of the Earl of Maledon.
When the Earl suddenly dies Valeria steps up to take care of her fragile mother and her six-year-old half brother, who is now the Earl of Maledon.
Valeria, who is vivacious and independent, experiences her first season in the fashionable part of London. Valeria is given lots of advice on how to act and who to associate with, but doesn't know whom to place her trust in.
What I liked about this book:
The author was fantastic at describing dresses, scenery, and characters. While the plot sounds cliche', Lynn Morris' writing made the stereotypes seem new and interesting.
The characters had depth and varying personalities that kept the plot moving.
What I didn't like about this book:
There were many references to prostitutes, immoral relationships, and like, but they were shown in a very negative light.
My rating: 3
Title: Northanger Abbey
Author: Jane Austen
Genre: Historical fiction
Plot: Catherine Moorland has lived a simple life with her parents and siblings in Fullerton, England.
When Catherine is seventeen she is invited by the Allens' to join them in Bath. Once in bath Catherine discovers a world of dancing, fashion, and haughty people.
Catherine soon becomes friends with Isabella Thorpe and Eleanor Tilney- two very different people. Who is her true friend? The flirtatious Isabella or the quiet Eleanor?
What I liked about this book: This is by far the least serious of Jane Austen's books. There are some funny quotes and conversations throughout this book.
There are many different characters with different personalities.
I first thought that Catherine was a bit silly, but I soon found my self relating to her.
What I didn't like about this book: There are many references and conversations about very old books that I haven't read, which could be confusing at times. Thankfully the copy I read had footnotes that helped to explain those references.
My rating: 3
Title: Blackmoore - a proper romance
Author: Julianne Donaldson
Genre: Historical fiction
Plot: For ten or more years Kate Worthington has wanted to see Blackmoore, an estate owned by her friends.
The only way Kate will be allowed to go to Blackmoore, and India afterwards, is if Kate receives three marriage proposals and rejects them all.
Can it be, that what might free Kate also be holding her back?
What I liked about this book: It was just the style of writing I really like.
The characters in this book are far from perfect, especially Kate. In the end, though, hard lessons are learned.
I thought the romance between two characters realistic, yet beautiful.
What I didn't like about this book: There is a lot of talk about characters possibly being unfaithful to their husbands. It is assumed some characters act suggestive so they will receive a marriage proposal.
Would I recommend this? Yes!!!!! Anyone who likes Julie Klassen and Lisa T. Bergrens' style of writing would really like this book.
Title: Jane and the unpleasantness of Scargrave manor
Series: Jane Austen Mystery book one
Author: Stepahie Barron
Genre: Historical Mystery
Pages: 289
Plot: Jane Austen is visiting her newly married friend Isobel Payne, Countess of Scargrave, after Jane refuses a marriage proposal.
At first Jane believes Isobel to be happily married, that is until Lord Scargrave dies suddenly. At first everyone believes Lord Scargrave died naturally, but soon it is pronounced that he was murdered.
Jane's wit may just help her find out who the murderer is.
What I liked about this book: This is one of the most complex mysteries I have ever read!!! Chances are, like me, you won't know who the murderer is until the end of the book.
What I didn't like about this book: The is a gory book, if you are squeamish you probably wouldn't enjoy it.
There is also a lot of talk of adultery, mistresses, and out of wedlock pregnancies.
Would I recommend this? Yes, to those who love a thrilling mystery.
Title: The Apothecary's Daughter
Author: Julie Klassen
Series: None
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 416
Plot: Lilly Haswell enjoys working in her father's apothecary shop more than anything.
Lilly's Uncle and Aunt want her to join them in London to experience culture and hopefully find a suitor. At her father's prompting Lilly reluctantly joins them. Lilly isn't sure whether her heart is at home or London. Will she make the right choice?
What I liked about this book: This is the first non- Jane Austen regency book I read a couple of years ago, so I really liked it.
What I didn't like about this book: I remember there being a good bit of kissing in it, but I can't remember anything else I didn't like.
Would I recommend this book? Yes!
Title: Persuasion
Author: Jane Austen
Series: None
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 288
Plot: Anne Elliot was engaged to Frederick Wentworth, but because her family and friends disapproved him, Anne breaks her engagement. Now years later Anne hasn't forgotten Frederick, but she wonders if he has forgotten her. When Frederick shows up in Anne's life again, her life is changed.
What I like about this book: This is my favorite Jane Austen book. It's very well written.
What I didn't like about this book: It is a serious book until the ending.
Would I recommend this? Yes, highly.
