Review: Ten Things I Love About You by Julia Quinn

Another anticipated book for me in May was the new Julia Quinn :) Somehow, she's made it to my auto-buy list :) Ten Things I Love About You sounded really cute and I think everyone wanted Sebastian's book, after the scene where he he was so into his read that he fell down the desk/table and injured himself in What Happens in London. LOL. Joining me for today's buddy review is Isabel from All About Me :) Thank you, Izzy :P


*Warning: The are spoilers in this review. Read at your own risk!*

Ten Things I Love About You by Julia Quinn
published by Avon in May 2010

Ten Things You Should Know About This Book

1. Sebastian Grey is a devilishly handsome rogue with a secret.
2. Annabel Winslow's family voted her The Winslow Most Likely to Speak Her Mind AND The Winslow Most Likely to Fall Asleep in Church.
3. Sebastian's uncle is the Earl of Newbury, and if he dies without siring an heir, Sebastian inherits everything.
4. Lord Newbury detests Sebastian and will stop at nothing to prevent this from happening.
5. Lord Newbury has decided that Annabel is the answer to all of his problems.
6. Annabel does not want to marry Lord Newbury, especially when she finds out he once romanced her grandmother.
7. is shocking, 8. is delicious, 9. is downright wicked, all of which leads the way to
10. Happily. Ever. After.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Bevelstoke, Book #3

The Story: Annabel Winslow is being sponsored by her maternal grandparents for her first season. As the eldest of eight children, Annabel’s goal is simple: find a match that will be able to support her family and send her brothers to Eton. To her grandparents’ great pleasure, Annabel has attracted the attention of their good friend, the Earl of Newbury. The Earl of Newbury has recently lost his heir and therefore must beget a new one, as he doesn’t want his nephew, Sebastian Grey, to inherit the title. Thus, he has been looking for a “fertile” woman and if Annabel’s figure is any indication… As for Sebastian, he’d like the whole heir issue to be settled.

Nath: What did you think of Ten Things I Love About You, Isabel?

I really liked Sebastian’s character; however, I really had issues with Annabel and it really affected how I enjoyed this book :(

Isabel: I also liked Sebastian. I didn’t mind Annabel.

Nath: Really? I thought Sebastian was a great character. I liked how charming he was. It was a bit sad that nobody looked beyond the surface, but then, I guess that's what he wanted. I really liked that he had many layers and he was aware of them and chose what to show to the public and what to keep for himself.

Isabel: I loved how charming he was. It’s like how Annabel described him. That he had a secret and she wanted to know what it was. Not just the books but the many parts of his personality.

Nath: That comment really nailed Sebastian :)

Now, Annabel. Hmmm. My problem with her was I wanted her to stand up for herself and be more pro-active. Instead, she just sat there, pitying herself.

Isabel: I didn’t get she was pitying herself. I think she just saw herself as stuck in a situation she couldn’t get out of. The whole, “I want to marry for love but I need to do the right thing for my family,” I think is what made her be the way she was. Once Newbury said those nasty things to her at the party, she realized she wouldn’t be able to go through it.

Nath: All right, perhaps saying that Annabel was pitying herself is a bit harsh. However, I maintain that she could have been more pro-active. From the beginning, Annabel didn't need a titled gentleman, just one with money. She could have found other options to Newburry. She could have made a deal with someone... True, she couldn't have brought much to it, but hey, she had that body! LOL. How many times did we read such plots? Or blackmail her grandparents into paying her brothers tuitions, steal jewels, something. It was clear that Annabel didn't want to marry Newburry, but she didn't do anything to get out of that situation. Everyone around her had plans, did things... but Annabel was like a pawn, just sitting there and letting other move her around according to what they planned. She never even got up to Newburry to bargain for the money. Also, love didn't have anything to with this whole situation at first.

Oh and I disliked the fact that Annabel founds herself in a pickle of her own doing and Sebastian had to do all the work to get her out of that situation.

Isabel: But her body is the reason why it attracted Newbury. He wanted an heir and he wanted it now. I think had he not been so desperate, Annabel could have found someone different with money. Someone more tolerable. I mean, Newbury got that special license. He could have made it difficult for anyone else who had interest in her.

Nath: I know her body is what attracted Newburry. However, I think she could attract other men too... I mean, Edward kept drooling about her LOL. So perhaps she could have found someone more tolerable with more money... And really, after Newbury thought there was something between Annabel and Sebastian, he wasn’t interested in her anymore… At the end, it had less to do with the heir and more to keep Sebastian from having her.

Isabel: Yeah, but being attracted and actually wanting to marry her are two different things. Also, we wouldn’t have a story if she did. And remember, most girls wouldn’t have been able to do anything. Most just accepted their fate.

But now that you mention it, yeah everyone else had ideas where Annabel just kind of sat there not knowing what to do. And… she should have told Sebastian who she was when she met him. I mean, his uncle is courting her. They were bound to run into each other.

Nath: True, but I still think she was too wishy-washy through the whole book. Not only didn't she make her own opportunities, she didn't even seize the one that were offered to her. I mean, personality-wise, Annabel was fine. She's a nice girl with a good sense of humor and filial... but her inaction just ruined her character for me.

I thought the plotline was okay, but not substantial enough. I liked that it was between Annabel, Sebastian and Newburry... that there was no mystery involved. However, I think that a few scenes at the end were superfluous such as the sex scene and Annabel's discovery at Sebastian's identity. I think the story should have ended after the grandmother and Newburry departed from the room and then the epilogue.

Isabel: I like that Annabel found out Sebastian was the author. I’m glad we got to see that. However, I almost wished they kept it a secret about who it was. Like not reveal it was Sebastian until maybe a little later. Like with Miss Whistledown. I also think it’s funny Sebastian is the author of those books. I love how he prods people for info about if they liked them.

Nath: LOL, that was cute indeed. I’m glad Annabel found Sebastian’s secret, but I thought it could have been earlier in the book. I'm kind of disappointed though that it never became public knowledge that Sebastian was Sarah Goreley...

Isabel: I would have like for Harry and Olivia to at least find out also. But oh well. I’ll take what I can. Did you think Olivia left Sebastian and Annabel alone together on purpose?

Nath: I do think that Olivia left them together on purpose. For some reasons, she had chosen Annabel as the wife candidate.

Isabel: I think Olivia could tell there was something between them. She was giving them a little push.

Nath: Probably.

LOL, one of my favorite moment of Ten Things I Love About You was the last scene with the grandmother! Quite hilarious, especially when she said: "I thought you'd die soon!” I didn't like her much, but she livened up the book for sure :)

Isabel: Lady Vickers was awesome. Ha ha. Didn’t I say for all we knew she was after Newbury when he was too? And turns out they did hook up. Wow. But I loved how she basically gave them permission to spend the night.

Nath: LOL, yes, you did call it! :)

One of the issues I had was the fact that the grandparents were pleased about the match between Annabel and Lord Newbury. Especially the grandfather - how can you expect your friend to marry your granddaughter?!?! I mean, does he think a little bit that it would be as if he had sex with his granddaughter?
I mean, when her grandmother was telling her that in her time, some of her friends were after Lord Newbury and Annabel goes “Your friends” – that says it all for me.

Isabel: Oh I know. that part was funny. I was like.. ewww telling your granddaughter that your friends were once after the guy you might marry is not a good thing. But that’s what they did in those days. It was probably really common back then. And no one thought different. Icky though.

Nath: True, you're right... What made it worst though was that Lord Newbury was really an unlikable character. I really didn't like the part where Annabel got mauled by him, he was such a lecherous pervert ^_^; Plus, the last bit where he wanted to ruin her? Despicable!! Bleh :( I think it would have been more interesting if he wasn’t. That the only factor would have been his age.

Isabel: Yeah I didn’t like that either; it made me dislike the earl even more. Like ewww.

Nath: Another issue is I didn't really buy the love between Annabel and Sebastian... I understand that they got to know each other when Sebastian was calling on her... and he appreciated her humor... but one minute, he doesn't want to propose to her and the other, he's in love. Nope.

Isabel: I bought it. I think deep down he did but just didn’t know it. It’s like not knowing what you got till it’s gone. I think once he pictured her with the Earl or anyone, he realized just how much he did want to marry her. I think Olivia knew too and that’s why she left them alone.

Nath: You’re probably right. I just didn’t feel much chemistry between the two :(

Also, I might be nit-picking, but anyway. Throughout the book, Annabel and Sebastian processed some of their thinking by making a list of ten things. I thought it was cute; however, I think it'd have been better if it was a characteristic proper to either Annabel or Sebastian. Not both. There are very few people who process that way and suddenly, you have two? I mean, if Sebastian picked up the habit from Annabel, fine... but both of them? ^_^;

Isabel: I can also buy the list thing. My only issue is I did not care for the cover. The lady just looked kind of annoyed. Like.. ugh.. another letter or whatever she’s holding.

Nath: I think it’s a list. Personally, I would have preferred a cover along the lines of What Happens in London... Simply to make the books in this series fit together.

Finally, Ten Things I Love About You is a C for me... Really loved Sebastian, but it couldn’t make up for all the issues I had ^_^; What about you?

Isabel: For me, I’d give it a B. I enjoyed the story. I love Sebastian. Loved that it was low key drama. It was just a cute story. Also loved how poor Annabel was described as fertile and how everyone had heard it. Ha ha.

Nath: LOL, poor Annabel indeed. The part where she wondered how once goes to give the air of infertility was just too funny :)

Review: When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn

I'm always looking for new authors, and when my friend Nicole recommended When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn I knew I just had to try her out! Nicole and I have very similar taste in books and I have to say I owe her b/c this book was SUPERB and any historical lover will NOT be disappointed! When He Was Wicked is the 6th book in the Bridgerton Series and takes place at the same time as both Romancing Mr. Bridgerton and To Sir Phillip, With Love.


Description~
In every life there is a turning point. A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one's life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London's most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton. After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca's surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer — the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin. But that was then . . . Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love . . . until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets...

***Warning: This review contains SPOILERS!***

Monroe: So Nicole you recommended this book to me and it was my first time reading Julia Quinn...I was SO HAPPY I listened to you! :o) So what made you pick up this book?

Nicole: First off, I’m so glad you liked this book! It is one of my all time fav’s. Back in March (I think) I bought an assortment of books off eBay. This book was included. I hadn’t read any other books from the Bridgerton series. In fact I’d never even read a Julia Quinn book. I read it and fell in love with Michael and Francesca! Lol I’ve read it about 3 times since I think!! There is so much feeling in this book, I think that is what draws me too it.

Monroe: I really have to agree with you there! Ok so lets just jump right in!

This isnt your typical historical romance by far! Did you predict John dieing in the beginning? I KNEW he was when he complained of a headache! lol It was super sad when Frannie was telling Michael to wake him :*(

Nicole: I knew something was going to have to happen, because it was a romance novel and it opened with Michael so…..somehow he had to end up with her. It came quickly though, but yea…when he had a headache I saw the foreshadowing. It was heart wrenching when she discovered him. I agree, this wasn’t your typical romance and that is one of the things I love about it. She was in love with her husband. I do think she had somewhat of an odd infatuation with Michael, but I think had her husband lived she would have been very happy with him. I loved the deep emotion going on with Michael and his desire for her but his guilt. He was just such a good, good man! I also loved that John was so comfortable to let Michael and Frannie be close. He was so trusting of both of them, and I know John knew that Frannie loved Michael (not like that at the time). It was all so complex. I was so mad at him for leaving!!!! But, it made the story what it was…don’t you think?

Monroe: I really do! I loved that Michael loved Frannie BUT he kept everything aside b/c he loved John so much. And ya Frannie and Michaels relationship prior to Johns death was...somewhat odd. With her asking about his "Wicked" times but I think it was almost an innocent flirtation. Some gals are just like that...FLIRTS! lol Then after John died and Michael and Frannie had their fall out...when that damn book said 4 years later I about dropped outta my seat! lol 4 YEARS! JEEZ! But I love how you got connected by the notes at the beginning of each chapter. It filled in some gaps and feeling that you wondered about. But when they got back together...*sigh their love was just so different than hers and Johns...not better, not worse, just different!

So we gotta talk about the kiss that shook the world! lol Esp since it took over 200 pages to get to! BUT I have to give props to JQ b/c it didnt faze me one bit. And normally Im lookin for some lovin but I enjoyed the ride! The kiss just made it even sweeter!

Nicole: Yea, I felt the same way when it said 4 years later!!!!!!!! The letters at the beginning I absolutely loved. It made me sad that he tried to correspond with her but she didn’t respond, however that made their reunion that much sweeter and uncomfortable! (which makes for great reading!!) I agree, I was dying for them to have contact but she definitely did it right. I wouldn’t have loved their “love” as much had Frannie fallen for him too quickly. It was so interesting that it seemed soooo obvious that they should be together. He needed to marry…she wanted to marry and have children. I was so excited when they finally kissed! But, my favorite love scene by far was in the cottage!!! Whew! I love that she turned it around on him. Can you imagine what he was thinking…it was his ultimate dream come true! Usually it’s the guys that are hot in romance novels…but she made that scene sizzle!!

It broke my heart that he had malaria, but I loved that he allowed her to care for him and see him at his worst. At first I thought..”oh no you don’t Julia Quinn…you make this guy die and we are over!!!”

Monroe: YES omg the cottage scene...*sigh I about had an asthma attack! She was telling him to do things "her way" etc! BUT if you notice how the table turned when he finally got to touch her...oh but she didnt mind him being in control after that! Man this man knew when to slow it down and when to speed things up! WOOWEE!

When he made the proposition to her about getting married I was SO EXCITED! lol The thing is was that you know she was floored but in a way it HAD to make somewhat sense to her! They were both looking and he made a good point about saying she wouldnt know if she got with someone who would treat her badly. And when he said "I would give you children, or at least try" my heart squeezed for them! B/c you know he wanted that!

And omg when the cat is let out of the bag about his feeling the entire time he knew her didnt your jaw just drop! That fight they had broke my heart! But when she finally says yes and he says something about he would tie her to the bed until she is swollen with a babe (or whatever) and she said yes...omg!!! :*) OH and he asks why say yes and she said she wasnt sure but she just knew yes! OMG! EPP! See she knew it was right...she didnt know WHY it was right she just knew! Sometimes life is full of uncertainties, but we just feel its right! Yay!

Nicole: Michael could do no wrong for me in this book. I was so glad that he followed her out to the house when she left. He HAD too. (And you know she had to want him too also!!) The clincher for me was him finding her at the grave. Uh, my heart just swelled. I was SO GLAD that he got to hear her say the things she did. It could not have been more perfect……*tears*. Lol And of course the letter from Johns mother was amazing. I could just go on and on about how much I love this book…and…..to you I have!!

I just love that she (and Michael) could love John honestly and genuinely and then be given a second chance at love. And how amazing to have found that you have another man to love you, that has loved you all along…and…loved you enough to have done the right thing so selflessly. Ok, send the damn book back…I’m ready to read it again!!

It also doesn’t hurt that I love that inside flap cover art!! Whew! Hottie!

Monroe: WELL PUT! I love that they both without a doubt love John. And their love didn't get compared to John and Frannies. She even said herself that it was just a different kind of love. It was sweet that Michael got the love of his life and Frannie got a second chance at love. Finding two loves in one lifetime is a rare thing.

And the end of that book was superb! Her realizing her love for Michael was so strong and how she wanted to tell John! :*) omg! And her talking to his grave and Michael approaching...took my breath away! I loved how powerful all of that was. It wasn't quite a goodbye to John b/c no matter what he would always be in their lives. But it was an understanding between her and John...she understood that John would want this and she wanted to thank him and let him know she was moving forward. Oh dear im gonna cry!

I loved this book to pieces and am SO glad that you sent this book to me! Thanks for sharing! :o)

I give this book an A+. How could you not? It kept me on the edge of my seat and my little heart pitter pattering! How's about you Nic? Any last thoughts?

Nicole: Well it goes without saying that I give this book an A++. I'm so glad you enjoyed it also. I love historical romance, even the ones that follow the overused mold of "boy meets girl- lust - drama - misunderstanding - a big ton ball - marriage". However, I loved that this was different. It was emotional, tragic, and heartfelt. It will always be a favorite! (Don't forget the 2nd epilogue...it's available on Julia Quinn's site and it is totally the icing on the cake!!)

When He Was Wicked is the sixth book in the Bridgerton series. The rest are as follows:
#1: The Duke and I
#2: The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3: An Offer from a Gentleman
#4: Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5: To Sir Phillip, With Love
#7: It's In His Kiss
#8: On the Way to the Wedding

Again, I just want to thanks to Nicole for stopping by at Breezing Through and helping me find a wonderful book! I enjoyed doing this review with you and hope to share many more reviews with you later on! :o) HAPPY READING!

What happens in London

For this review I asked Rowena to read with me. She started reading it a few days before me because I was reading another book at the same time. (Storm Born) I SO wish I had put down Storm Born and went right to the historical.

What Happens in London by Julia Quinn

When Olivia Bevelstoke is told that her new neighbor may have killed his fiancée, she doesn't believe it for a second, but still, how can she help spying on him, just to be sure? So she stakes out a spot near her bedroom window, cleverly concealed by curtains, watches, and waits... and discovers a most intriguing man, who is definitely up to something.

Sir Harry Valentine works for the boring branch of the War Office, translating documents vital to national security. He's not a spy, but he's had all the training, and when a gorgeous blonde begins to watch him from her window, he is instantly suspicious. But just when he decides that she's nothing more than a nosy debutante, he discovers that she might be engaged to a foreign prince, who might be plotting against England. And when Harry is roped into spying on Olivia, he discovers that he might be falling for her himself...

Rowena: Just wanted to let you know that I finished WHAT HAPPENS IN LONDON by JQ and am ready whenever you are to review it! =)

Chantal: Wooohooo, I'm not done yet, but so far I like it :)

Rowena: No worries, I read it over the weekend (well Friday night), it had me laughing throughout the entire book.

Chantal: I'm glad you said that. I've been giggling, too. Happy to hear that it stays funny.

Rowena: It does and I hear that JQ is writing Sebastian’s book next, woot!

Chantal: Do you know if she started Sebastian's book yet or is she still in the planning stages? I'm very excited to read it.

Rowena: Sebastian’s book is coming out soon, I’m not sure if she started it but it’s on the horizon so….WOOT!

(Two days later)

Chantal: I'm done! Wow, I loved it. Did you??
It was so funny, I giggled out loud several times.

Rowena: I loved it too! It took me no time at all to read it and it’s been a week since I’ve read it and still I’m cheesing over it. I already know what grade I’m giving it.

Chantal: I have a theory about that book in the story. I think that Sebastian is the author!! That's why he was so good at reading it.
When Olivia returned to her drawing room to see Seb standing on the table acting out the book--omg, I laughed so hard.

Rowena: You think so? LOL LOL LOL. That totally makes sense. I laughed so much throughout the entire book from Harry’s hat to the reading in Olivia’s sitting room. From Harry and Prince Alexei’s bickering to Olivia and Harry talking through their windows and then every scene that Sebastian was in. I loved it. I loved it all.

Chantal: The hat! LOL! He wore the silly hat to annoy her and amuse himself. Hehe.

Doesn't it make sense that Seb is the author? He was put off to find out that not everyone loved it, he was way, way into reading it to everyone. Plus he and author both have the same first letters in their first and last names. Hmmm...

Rowena: Oh my gosh, I didn’t even pick up on that but you’re right. It’s totally Sebastian. I mean, he knew everything about the book, about the other books and he seemed to get miffed when everyone was talking trash about it. I cannot wait for Sebastian’s story.

Chantal: I've said it before, but I have to say it again--this book was so funny and oh so romantic. I thought it was perfect that he proposed from the window. That's how they fell in love, it was fitting.

Rowena: I know! It was pretty cheesy but I didn’t mind it. I thought this entire story was such a fun, warm and charming story. The characters were lively and the dialogue was fantastic. So much to love about this book.

Chantal: It was amazing. This is the Julia Quinn that I fell in love with!

Rowena: I totally agree. This is the Julia Quinn that I remember and the Julia Quinn that I love. I was totally engaged in this story. All of the characters were so much fun to get to know that it made reading this book zip right by. I didn’t want it to end. I wanted the laughs to continue and I even wanted to see more of Prince Alexei even though the little scheme at the end of the book was kind of lame. I still enjoyed the heck out of this book.


Chantal: Prince Alexei! I liked him, too. Um, as much as you can like someone who says he wants to rape someone. Ick. I was thrilled when we found out what they were saying. We knew it was bad because Harry wanted to punch him in the face, but there was a bit of suspense with us waiting to find out exactly what was being said.

Rowena: So how much did you love the interactions between just about everyone in this book? From Olivia and her twin brother Winston to Harry and Sebastian and finally Harry and Olivia? How cute were all of them? I can’t tell you enough how much I loved this book.

Chantal: Oh, the interactions were perfect. Charming, witty, entertaining, and engaging. Every piece of dialogue, from the first page to the very last, had me riveted.

What did you think of Harry's childhood? I liked how the author showed us how he grew up, how things were with his father and the respect he had for his mean grandmother. Even though she came off as a crabby old witch, I liked her.

Rowena: I liked reading about Harry’s past and I was really glad that Harry didn’t grow up to be his father. I’d also be very interested to read Harry’s brother’s book but first, it has to Sebastian. I LOVE Sebastian. I really like the warmth between the two cousins. I loved the sparring of words and the genuine affection they held for each other. They really had each other’s back and I loved that! I’m telling you, Harry was the sexiest kind of nerd there is. I just ate him up. I liked Harry’s grandmother too…a lot more than I liked his mother. I loved listening to Harry find out about how their grandmother died at the table from his sister. The way that she described the Mom, it was sad but it also made me laugh.

I can’t say enough good things about this book because it was fanfrickin’tastic!

Chantal: Same here! There isn't a negative things to be said about this book.

I never thought of Harry as a nerd. Sure, he was smart, but a nerd wasn't at all on my radar.

It goes without saying that this book is an A+ for me. There is much hope for Sebastion's book. I hope it's as great as this one was.

Rowena: Would you want Sebastian to end up with someone we met in this book or a totally new heroine? Oh and did you read the first book, the Miranda Cheever book? You know who else I’d like to see again? Winston!

I give this book a total A+ my dang self. I want another book just like this one to read right now. I could use the laughs, I’ve had a hellish week!

Chantal: Yep, I read the first book. I liked getting the little updates about Miranda in this book.

I'd like to see Seb with a totally new heroine.

Rowena: You know I trust JQ enough to enjoy whatever she decides for Sebastian. I’m not picky at all.

Review: Mr. Cavendish, I presume? by Julia Quinn

Obviously, another book that has been getting a buzz is Mr. Cavendish, I presume? by Julia Quinn, also known as the other side of the coin of The Lost Duke of Wyndham. The Lost Duke of Wyndham was definitively a wonderful book and as a result, Mr. Cavendish, I presume? was one of the most anticipated book of the fall...

So here is our take of the book...


Mr. Cavendish, I presume? by Julia Quinn
published by Avon in September 2008

Amelia Willoughby has been engaged to the Duke of Wyndham for as long as she can remember. Literally. A mere six months old when the contracts were signed, she has spent the rest of her life waiting. And waiting. And waiting... for Thomas Cavendish, the oh-so-lofty duke, to finally get around to marrying her. But as she watches him from afar, she has a sneaking suspicion that he never thinks about her at all...

It's true. He doesn't. Thomas rather likes having a fiancée — all the better to keep the husband-hunters at bay — and he does intend to marry her... eventually. But just when he begins to realize that his bride might be something more than convenient, Thomas's world is rocked by the arrival of his long-lost cousin, who may or may not be the true Duke of Wyndham. And if Thomas is not the duke, then he's not engaged to Amelia. Which is the cruelest joke of all, because this arrogant and illustrious duke has made the mistake of falling in love... with his own fiancée!

Genre: historical romance
Series: The Duke of Wyndham, Book #2

The Story: LOL, most of you know of it already. If you don't know the story yet, the back blurb is quite a good synopsis... However, I would strongly suggest that readers read The Lost Duke of Wyndham before reading Mr. Cavendish, I presume?

Nath: So ladies, what did you think of Mr. Cavendish, I presume?

Chantal: It was very weird to be reading many of the same scenes from the previous book, but in a different POV. Too often I felt like I was reading The Lost Duke again. That should be okay, because I loved that book, but the repetitions just made for a boring read of Mr. Cavendish.

Ames: I didn’t find the book too repetitive. I really enjoyed reading it from Thomas and Amelia’s point of view. I would have liked to have seen more from Amelia, but I enjoyed Mr. Cavendish overall.

Nath: I think that it’s pretty divided out there, Chantal. Many think like you. Personally, I thought the book was okay. I liked the idea/concept, but I think there must have been a better way to publish the two sides of the story…

Chantal: What I would have liked to have seen happen was Mr. Cavendish start where Lost Duke ended. Perhaps with a prologue of a key scene or two from Lost Duke. All those repeated scenes from the previous book just got on my nerves.

Nath: True, those scenes were tedious at time. Ms Quinn could really have salvaged the book by adding “after” scenes … I actually expected to see more of Thomas and Amelia’s relationship after Thomas lost his dukedom, so I was disappointed when the book ended. I would also like to see how the society reacted to Thomas’ loss of a title and how different his life was. That’s the really interesting part of this kind of story.

Ames: I feel like I’m the only one who didn’t find it tedious! LOL I really didn’t. I do have to agree with Nath though, I did feel like it was missing something and I definitely would have wished to see more “after” as well.

Nath: What did you think of the characters? I liked Amelia and Thomas, they were nice. I did think that Thomas was stupid... so stupid not to have gotten to know Amelia earlier, not to have married her earlier. I'd have liked to see Thomas grovel a little bit more at the end.

Chantal: I don't have much of an opinion of the players. Amelia didn't do anything for me, and I admit to liking Thomas better in the first book. However, I much enjoyed the part where Amelia finds Thomas drunk, and they spent that time together. It was indeed nice to see Thomas let go during that part. Some other parts of it were cute. Like when she tells him that she loves him, then drops the letter, and starts back peddling what she said.

Nath: Yes, that was cute…

Ames: I enjoyed that drunken part too. I liked Amelia. I like how JQ wrote that she “woke up.” Because she did. She was just going along with what everyone had planned for her but then when things changed, so did she. And she went after what she wanted. I always admire a heroine for doing that. As for Thomas, he woke up too. He took Amelia for granted and when he thought her lost her, he was still honorable enough to do what he thought was the right thing. Although I wanted to pound him on the head as much as Amelia did, he was a character with great integrity. And that had nothing to do with the title but with himself.

Nath: You’re right, Ames. I like how both characters “woke up.” It was nice to see Amelia fed up with Thomas treatment and shake it up. I have to admit that I liked Thomas’ integrity… However, I felt like he missed the point when he forced Jack to marry Amelia because she has expected to be a duchess for her whole life. Luckily for them, they both “woke up” in time and not tragically late.

You know, thinking back, the problem with this book, aside from the repeated scenes, is that everything went too fast between Amelia and Thomas. Yes, there were new scenes where we saw them interact and get to know each other better, but it wasn’t enough. Where the timeline was perfect for Jack and Grace because they were under the same roof and had more opportunities to be together and have private conversations, it was too short for Thomas and Amelia to really connect. Especially to make up for 20 years. Perhaps if they had more opportunity to be together alone, it would have been better… Like I said previously, Thomas should have groveled a lot more to win Amelia. Even the love scene at the end felt rushed.

Ames: I agree, it did feel a bit rushed between Amelia and Thomas.

Chantal: The love scene was too rushed for me. I understand the urgency for the couple, but it didn't read through very well.

Nath: You're right, the love scene didn't read through very well... However, I smiled at Amelia's boldness LOL :) That was very cute.

What did you think of the ending? I liked it :) It was a good ending.

Chantal: Yeah, I liked the ending. It was nice to see Thomas get a title back.

Ames: I thought the ending was cute.

Chantal: The story was just... border-line okay. I did some skimming, and once I finished I went back to re read the parts I skimmed. I didn't miss much. I have never not liked a Julia Quinn book. I feel kinda sick about this. :(

Nath: Don’t feel bad Chantal. Ms Quinn took a huge risk when writing these two books and it paid off with some readers and not with others. That’s life.

Ames: It paid off with me. LOL

Chantal: You're right, the author did take a big risk. I wish it had worked for me, though. It's a C- for me. It wasn't interesting or at all appealing to know things from a different POV. The book as a whole didn't do anything for me. I won’t recommend it to anyone, and I won’t ever re read it.

Ames: I'm giving it a B. Whereas Jack's book made me cry, this one didn't.

Nath: I think I'm going to go with you Ames... a B. The book just left us wanting more and although I enjoyed the characters, it just wasn’t enough.

Review: The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn

Wow, it's been a while since we last posted something up! We'll try to post reviews more often and it should be easier now that summer and vacations are over :)

Today, our buddy review is The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn. This book came out in the beginning of the summer and I think it's the perfect time to review it, since the sequel, Mr. Cavendish, I Presume? is coming out later in September.


The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn
published by Avon in May 2008

Jack Audley has been a highwayman. A soldier. And he has always been a rogue. What he is not, and never wanted to be, is a peer of the realm, responsible for an ancient heritage and the livelihood of hundreds. But when he is recognized as the long-lost son of the House of Wyndham, his carefree life is over. And if his birth proves to be legitimate, then he will find himself with the one title he never wanted: Duke of Wyndham.

Grace Eversleigh has spent the last five years toiling as the companion to the dowager Duchess of Wyndham. It is a thankless job, with very little break from the routine... until Jack Audley lands in her life, all rakish smiles and debonair charm. He is not a man who takes no for an answer, and when she is in his arms, she's not a woman who wants to say no. But if he is the true duke, then he is the one man she can never have...

Genre: historical romance
Series: Duke of Wyndham, book #1

The Story: Years ago, Jack Audley left his family and hometown and fought in the war. However, instead of going back home to his family once the war ended, he becomes a highwayman. Then, on a fateful night, he and his accomplices decide to rob the dowager Duchess of Wyndham's carriage... and the dowager immediately recognizes in him her favorite second son who's been dead for years. If Jack's parents were married and he was legitimate, then Jack should inherite the title of Duke of Wyndham instead of his cousin, Thomas Cavendish... which the dowager is determined to prove.

Ames: Ok, I read The Lost Duke of Wyndham on my roadtrip. I was sitting in the backseat and giggling. My dad and brother kept giving me funny looks. Then I cried. So yeah, I really enjoyed The Lost Duke of Wyndham, which is only my second ever Julia Quinn novel.

Nath: What?!? Only your second Julia Quinn? And I thought I was last to jump on this bandwagon! LOL :) So what did you like about this book?

Ames: I like the humor - Jack didn't try to appease his grandmother, so that was good. And it definitely made for some good laughs. I like how the duke stepped back and the friendship that developed between him and Jack.

Nath: I agree, the humor in this book was great and a lot of it is due to Jack. Such a nonchalent character :) I also thought The Lost Duke of Wyndham had a refreshing storyline - I know, I know, we've seen lost heir being found, but Ms Quinn was able to create a different atmosphere and circumstances. Like you, I liked how the actual Duke Thomas Cavendish didn't go bonkers at the idea of losing his title and actually stepped down.

Another thing I liked is how the characters weren't stereotyped and didn't turn out better than they really are due to some heart-breaking circumstances. For example, the dowager. Man, was she a mean old biddy, LOL, and she stayed mean till the end. Seriously, the way she acted and behaved, it was hard for readers to summon any sympathy for her and that's it, we weren't supposed to feel sympathy for her.

Ames: Jack really made this book for me. I like how he was attracted to Grace and he didn't deny it to himself. He's such a good charming guy.

Nath: I agree with you, Jack really made the book here. He was so charming. I think if he's been different, the whole book would not have been as good and it would just be a plain old: lost heir found to become noble titled storyline. I also liked the fact that there was a lot of depth to his character. There is really more to Jack than being a highwayman, soldier and/or rogue.

What did you think of Grace? Do you think that Thomas actually loved her? I'm glad that Ms Quinn didn't drag out the book by having the: I'm a duke and I can't marry you because you're not a lady storyline.

Ames: Thomas didn't love Grace. He was her friend though. And Amelia, I think Amelia is going to surprise him. Grace was a good character too. I liked her.

I can't wait for the next book though.

Nath: I'm looking forward to it too. I'm interested in Mr. Cavendish, I Presume? because we've all read about Mr. Nobody becoming a noble, but it's rare to read the opposite story, a noble becoming Mr. Nobody :) I agree with you that Amelia is probably going to surprise Thomas. I just can't wait :)

So your grade? This was definitively a B+ for me!

Ames: I'm giving it an A. It freaking made me cry! (For those of you wondering, it was the scene when he finally came home and his aunt was giving him the news. It was very touching.)