Deceived

Rating:
Summary: my first romance- i'm glad
Review: Because this was the first romance novel, the steamy kind, that I have ever read, I thought it good- the characters were well-defined and the costumes and setting were indeed as rich as Ms. Small's reputation expects. however, now, after my "vast" experience with these stories, i found it empty. It seemed as if she was more interested in the steamy sex than in any plot, although a little intrigue at the end helped to sweeten the bitter taste in my mouth. Aurora and Valerian's attraction is more animalistic than burning, and Aurora's response when she was being practically raped by him was a bit repulsive.

Rating:
Summary: not her best
Review: I am a huge Bertrice Small fan and own every single one of her books but this is easily my LEAST favorite and the only one I have only read once. It was flat and boring compared to her other work with little of the exquisite detail that I have come to appreciate. If you are just starting to read Ms. Small's work please start with something else, like the wonderful Kadin or any of the early Skye O'Malley series!

Rating:
Summary: Captivating
Review: This is the first book I've read by Beatrice Small and I couldn't put it down. The "shock" value kept me entralled! Ms. Small is very explicit and I found such to be refreshing! Most historical romance books are filled with "fairy-tale" stories with men and women who once they meet, never look at another person or make mistakes. Ms. Small's characters are definitely not perfect and I like this extra touch!! I am now on a mission to search out and buy all other books by this author!