Book review : The Secret of the India Orchid by Nancy Campbell Allen

The Secret of the India Orchid
Regency Proper Romance series book #2
by Nancy Campbell Allen

GENRE: Regency clean romance with a hint of mystery
My rating: ★★★★☆

I have to start saying that the intriguing title is a bit misleading.
While the story unfolds in India among members of the British aristocracy, there is no actual secret surrounding an orchid. Orchids are mentioned only as beautiful local flowers, and the central mystery revolves around stolen documents.
Though a more accurate title might have been something like "The Disappeared Document", I admit the chosen title sounds certainly more exciting. Having said that, I can say that I enjoyed the book from start to finish.

___ THE PLOT IN SHORT ____
Anthony Blake is smitten with Sophia Elliot, his best friend’s sister, but his chance to pursue her is cut short when he’s pulled back into his secret life as a spy for the Crown. After a sensitive list naming British agents—including himself—is stolen, Anthony distances himself from Sophia, trading his noble reputation for the guise of a carefree playboy to keep her safe.

Heartbroken, Sophia heads to India seeking solace, only to get caught up in a tangled mystery involving a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and whispers of royal intrigue.
When Anthony arrives at the British Residency, cautious and distant, Sophia is torn.
She still loves him and believes he feels the same, but with his secrets between them, can their love survive under the scorching Indian sun?

Their story unfolds amid danger and longing, testing whether trust and love can be rebuilt from the shadows.

________________________

This novel offers a refreshing take on the romance genre, standing out as a “clean romance” where the emotional connection between the protagonists takes center stage. Unlike many novels that lean heavily on physical intimacy, this story highlights feelings and subtle emotional exchanges, creating a tender and heartfelt love story without relying on sex scenes or kisses.

What makes this novel especially compelling is its clever blend of romance and murder mystery.
The plot skillfully balances the blossoming relationship of the two main characters with the suspense and intrigue of a whodunit, keeping readers engaged on multiple levels.

___ MAIN CHARACTERS _____
Anthony and Sophia possess a rare blend of charm and intelligence, their moral compasses unwavering.
They are not merely characters, but souls yearning to rekindle a love threatened by circumstance and deception. Their earnest desire to rebuild what was broken is deeply compelling, making it remarkably easy to become invested in their individual journeys and, more importantly, in the fate of their intertwined hearts.
One cannot help but be drawn to their noble spirits and the palpable hope they carry for a future together, a future you desperately want them to achieve.

___ SIDE CHARACTERS ____
Beyond the leads, the story also weaves in the lives of several supporting characters, exploring their private stories, hopes, fears, and dreams. While these side plots are treated with a lighter touch, they add depth and texture to the narrative, enriching the overall reading experience. One of Allen’s strengths lies in her emotional portrayal of characters. Each individual, from main to minor roles, is vividly brought to life through their feelings and inner conflicts. Interestingly, physical descriptions are minimal; the author simply notes that the young characters are beautiful and charming, letting their personalities and emotions paint the true picture.

The writing style is fluid and easy to read, which allows readers to fully enjoy both the suspenseful and joyful moments of the story.

The plot is well thought out and consistent, making the novel a strong candidate for a family-friendly film adaptation suitable for both adults and children. The pacing is excellent, gradually building tension until about 75% through the book, when the action reaches a thrilling peak. A daring, time-sensitive sequence followed by a heart-pounding climax fills the final part of the story with intense emotion.

___ WHY I DIDN'T RATE IT 5 FULL STARS ___
Overall, I found myself fully engaged from beginning to end.
That said, I would have appreciated some sensual, well-described kisses.
Many “clean” romances compensate for the absence of sex scenes with moments of charged closeness—a lingering touch, a meaningful look—that create palpable sexual tension.
This subtle intimacy was something I missed in The Secret of the India Orchid.

___ IS IT READABLE AS A STANDALONE ? ___
Yes, the book is readable as a standalone novel, even though the main couple first appeared as side characters in book 1 of her “Proper Regency Romance” series.

I also enjoyed that first book, despite some reviewers pointing out inaccuracies regarding the aristocratic rules of the Regency era. Not being an expert myself, I found the story well written and captivating.

It’s a shame the series only comprises two books because The Secret of the India Orchid lays a solid foundation and introduces characters ripe for at least three more installments.

___ RECOMMENDED TO ____
For readers seeking a Regency-era romance infused with mystery, adventure, and heartfelt sentiment—but without explicit physical scenes—this book comes highly recommended.
----> However, those who crave romances filled with passionate kisses and steamy encounters may want to look elsewhere.

If you would like to read my review about BOOK #1 inthe series: just click down below:

BOOK #1 "My Fair Gentleman"

Thank you so much for stopping by and reading my point of view. I hope it will be useful for your next reading choice :-)

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Book review : My Fair Gentleman by Nancy Campbell Allen

My Fair Gentleman
Regency Proper Romance series book #1
by Nancy Campbell Allen

GENRE: Regency clean romance
My rating: ★★★★★

I loved it !

Engaging read from start to finish.
Not suitable for readers who prefer romance novels with passionate kisses and strong sexual tension.

This is a sweet and funny novel set in the Regency era, with a plot different from the usual (already read a thousand times) and far from the clichés of frivolous Regency romances.

____ PLOT IN SHORT ____

Set in England during the Regency era, the story follows Jack, the grandson of the Earl of Stansworth. However, Jack was raised in poverty because his father was disinherited for marrying a commoner.
His father died from the hardships of working in the port, leaving behind a wife and two children. Jack began working at just twelve years old to support his mother and sister, and now that he has a stable job, he's on the verge of being promoted to captain.
However, when the Earl is dying, and wishes to avoid leaving his inheritance to an inept nephew, he sends for Jack.

Jack is uninterested in the world of the aristocracy and despises it, just as he despises his grandfather. However, for the sake of his mother, whose health is precarious, and his sister, who is a mistreated maid in the homes of nobles, he accepts becoming the heir. To do this, he must be educated in the ways of high society.

Ivy Carlisle, the granddaughter of a lady friend of Jack's grandmother, is hired as a tutor to help transform Jack into a gentleman.
This might seem like a daunting but doable task, if Jack weren't prejudiced against the aristocracy, sometimes letting his rebellious nature get the better of him... However, Ivy also suffers from a secret and is aware of the injustices to which the noble world inevitably condemns others.
Spending so much time with a handsome, passionate, and heartfelt man can only transport her into a world of feeling, one she previously considered improbable and foolish.

_________ ********** _______

The title and Goodreads introduction to the general plot, may suggest something like "My Fair Lady" musical comedy drama (based on George Bernard Shaw's 1913 stage play Pygmalion), but it's misleading.
Here, we don't have a rude boy, and there are no strange or extreme teaching methods.

It's a clean romance where the plot focuses more on substantive content that solidifies the story, rather than on explicit kisses and physical sensations.

I won't deny that I would have liked a longer and warmer description of the kisses (only two or three in the book), but the mix of drama, light-heartedness, and fun was so well-balanced, and the plot was so compelling that I have no choice but to give it a full five stars.


___ THE CHARACTERS ___

The characters are wonderful and emotionally well-developed.
Except for the hateful grandfather and the cousin eager to inherit (equally hateful and slimy, as is his wife), the two main characters, their family, and new friends have all won my affection and sympathy.

JACK: He is a young man, confident but with a raw wound from witnessing his family's rejection and abandonment by his cold grandfather.
He grew up working hard, yet his tenderness for his mother and sister is unmatched. While he initially judges Ivy as a snob, his sensitivity allows him to understand her fears and encourages her to find the courage to live that great love.

What I appreciated in Jack is that he didn't take his newfound fortune for granted. He generously worked to provide well-paid jobs to a new friend and to the staff, improving the well-being of those who suffered because of others' greed.

IVY: If at first glance she seems a little presumptuous, even to the reader, that feeling quickly disappears.
Ivy takes her commitment seriously, and despite educating three people who have lived in squalor (Jack, his mother, and his sister), she never judges from a pedestal. Her innate goodness allows her, through getting to know these people deeply, to view her own fortunes and misfortunes differently and to accept certain parts of her life with serenity and without shame.

Ivy's GRANDMOTHER is sweet and loving, but also intelligent and modern.

Jack's MOTHER is sweet and was strong enough to raise two children alone after being widowed and abandoned. Now, however, she is fragile, both in health and when faced with this new world of rich and haughty people. Luckily, Ivy and her grandmother know how to help her.

Jack's SISTER, Sophia, suffered not only from hunger but also from the vulgar advances of her employers and the envy and wickedness of the wives and other women in the houses where she worked due to her great beauty. Sophia is proud, intelligent, and ready to fight anyone who challenges her, but she also has a big heart, like her brother, and she finds fantastic ideas for using her new wealth, also involving her new best friend.

DYLAN: A noble, charming man about to inherit great wealth, he detests convention and acts according to his heart and mind. He is a true friend to Jack and the protagonist of the next book in the series, along with the beautiful Sophia.

CLARENCE FUDDLESTON: The old Earl's solicitor, then Jack's right-hand man and new good friend. I loved him too!


___ LOVE STORY ___

It's a slow-burn romance, well-developed through lively and plausible dialogues.
There's never a dull moment; on the contrary, the reader can fully enjoy the unfolding romance of Jack and Ivy.

They didn't know each other before, and despite Jack's aversion to society and its habits, he respects Ivy, so it's not an enemies-to-lovers story.
They simply confront the fears that every lover has when they realize how immense a feeling of love can be and how equally immense the pain can be in losing that person.

Despite the absence of explicit love scenes and in-depth descriptions of kisses, I felt the passion and the desire to live that feeling to the fullest by the two main characters.

There is no shortage of moments of suspense and twists that keep the pages turning. A little mystery and good deeds enrich the overall plot.

The writing style is fluid, making the reading light, fun, and full of deep emotion.
It was a satisfying read from start to finish!
I remember when I was at work, I would often stop to think: "I can't wait to finish so I can get back to reading that story!"

READABLE AS A STANDALONE: No unresolved plot points and a happy ending guaranteed.

This is my first time reading something by Nancy Campbell Allen, and I loved her ability to write a story, going into great detail without ever being boring.
I am ready to read book 2 of the series, featuring two supporting characters from this story! 😃

Thanks for stopping by and reading my review.

Read also my review about BOOK #2 inthe series: just click down below:

BOOK #2 "The Secret of the India Orchid"

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Book review : A Maiden Weeping by Jeri Westerson

A Maiden Weeping
Crispin Guest Book #9
Medieval noir by Jeri Westerson
GENRE : #Medieval-mystery

My rating: ★★★★★
5 full stars!😃

This series never disappoints me and this installment is no exception! Absolutely amazing !!!!

Once again Crispin Guest and his friends have involved me in an exciting adventure full of suspense and mystery.

As always, the book can be read as a standalone. However, I STRONGLY DISCOURAGE DOING SO, especially with this installment.
While the mystery is intricate and very suspenseful, kepting me thrilled until the end, the greatest emotional impact comes from the development of Crispin and his loved ones personal life.

---> MY ADVICE IS TO READ ALL THE BOOKS IN ORDER FROM #1 TO #15.

This book marks an important turning point in the series.
Only readers who have followed Crispin and Jack's journey from the beginning will fully appreciate the nuances of this story and connect deeply with our heroes and all the returning characters.

Before delving deeper,
_________ here's a BRIEF OVERVIEW of THE PLOT :

Crispin Guest is a former knight, who after being banished from court, reinvented his life as the Tracker, that is, the one who finds lost or stolen objects of great value and discovers the culprits even in cases of murder.
One day, while at his favorite tavern, he's approached -- seemingly by mistake -- by someone who wants to hire him as a killer.
After spending the night warning the intended victim first and then bedding her, Crispin finds himself arrested for her murder.
The only person he can rely on to start the investigation that will lead to the truth, is his young but smart apprentice Jack.

_________*********** _______

__ ABOUT THE FOREWORD ____ This book #9 begins, unlike the others, with a lengthy foreword by the author, detailing the legal system of the time period.

This introduction can be useful, but I don't find it essential for enjoying the story and fully understand all the procedures of the trial.
Anyway, if you find it tedious, don't be discouraged! You can always skip that preliminary matter.

I admit that by reading that boring ( according to my tastes ) foreword I was briefly discouraged, fearing the author had lost her way and could no longer write thrilling adventures for these characters.
If I weren't such a fan of Crispin, I might have given up after that opening speech. Fortunately, I love Crispin Guest so much that I persisted in reading and after the first few pages of chapter 1 I found myself filled with excitement again.

____ MAIN CHARACTERS : Crispin, the Tracker and his apprentice Jack ____

As mentioned earlier, this book marks a turning point. Several years have passed since the previous book, and six years since the first.

Crispin, now approaching 40, is no longer the young man of 31. In medieval times, this was an age for reflection on life, actions, and achievements.

Jack is no longer the eleven-year-old pickpocket and orphan who, with determination, settled into Crispin's house as his servant and apprentice.
Over the years, Jack has not only learned Crispin's trade but also learned to read, write, and even speak Greek and Latin, thanks to Crispin's lessons.
He has repeatedly demonstrated his loyalty and value as an apprentice, friend, and person, earning the respect of Crispin and others.

Now he is 19, he feels all the responsibility that comes from affection and gratitude, he would not abandon Crispin even in the worst case scenario and once again he discovers in himself a new strengths and resources he didn't think he had.
It's a stage of life where a boy not only changes physically but also experiences the awakening of physical and emotional instincts.
Instincts that were previously hinted at now emerge forcefully, and the thought of marrying the woman he loves becomes a constant worry, even at the most inopportune moments.

Reading the previous books is essential to fully appreciate the emotional depth of this installment.
The great emotional tension that the reader feels in living through internal turmoils and related changes, together with the characters, can only happen with the knowledge of their past torments and hopes, past sufferings and joys, past events and actions.

___________ SIDE CHARACTERS ______
Unlike previous installments, this story features a wider array of recurring characters, emphasizing their emotional and moral dimensions rather than their actions.
It's as if both the characters and the author are taking stock of the series' direction.

Among the characters who appear alongside Crispin and Jack throughout the series, some of them have strong personalities, and some are even based on real historical figures.

---> John/Eleanor Rykener (one of Crispin's best friends, an embroiderer who dresses as a woman by day and works as a prostitute, still dressed as a woman, by night) and Henry Bolingbroke (the son of John of Gaunt and future King Henry IV of England) are real historical figures who appear in the previous books and return here.

While Henry IV is well known through history books, very little is known about Rykener, but the author has been able to give such depth to the character's multifaceted personality, that I feel great enthusiasm every time I see him involved in Crispin's vicissitudes.

He may be difficult for others to understand, but he lives with less emotional complication because he has embraced who he is and lives his life with happiness, joy, and kindness towards others.
---> The previous stories in which we find him as a co-protagonist are so hilarious !!!!

Other recurring, purely fictional characters include:
the owners of Crispin's favorite tavern, the landlords of his and Jack's home, and old friends made during past investigations.
With so many supporting characters, the story doesn't dwell on their actions but emphasizes their importance in Crispin's life and the role their feelings play in the lives of our hero and his apprentice.

____ THE RECURRING THEME throughout the series:
It isn't historical relics, as one might expect, but the value of friendship.
The series emphasizes the importance of true friendship and judging people by their character, not by societal labels that deem some acceptable and worthy of respect while marginalizing others.
I appreciate very much the strong emphasis on these two themes.

______ A WELL-CRAFTED MYSTERY ____

While this book focuses more on introspection than renetic and sometimes violent action, the murders are still compelling.
Expect the usual web of lies, deceit, greed, perversity of the villains, plots and tenacious and clever investigations by our beloved and sharp-witted heroes.

There is no shortage of brilliant improvisations, a new funny character and a new charming one, who will reappear later in the series (you'll find out why in the final pages), and some laughs.

____ TWO NOVELTIES:

___ 1) In the first part of the book we find Crispin as the victim of a situation and unable to act, the new young emerging Tracker, Jack, will lead the investigation.
Initially, I was disappointed, but then I realized it was wise of the author to give Jack more prominence. This helps readers understand the significant changes he's undergone. Besides, Crispin is never truly inactive, even when he appears to be.

Around the halfway point, the pace picks up as the original Tracker becomes operational and more determined than ever.

___ 2) The introduction of a new four-legged friend touched my heart since I am a passionate animal lover, especially cats lover ( and loving owner ).

___ THE HISTORICAL ASPECT ___
This is the only book so far where historical elements are almost non-existent.
While past mysteries revolved around real relics and objects, the Tears of the Virgin are a product of Jeri Westerson's imagination, serving as a central element connecting the various misdeeds in this adventure.
The historical aspect is likely found in the judicial figures and the interesting development of the legal process (hence the author's foreword).

____ SUITABLE FOR ______
Recommended for readers seeking a mix of mystery, action, irony, sentiment, history, and fantasy.
----> There are no explicit scenes of sex or violence, and the language is appropriate.

_____ CONCLUDING _____
If it isn't obvious by now, I'm crazy about Crispin and this series.
I've loved him and his adventures since book #1.
I have six books left to read, and I'm pacing myself because I want to stay with this charming medieval man as long as possible.

Thanks you all for reading my opinion :-)

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If you want to know more about PREVIOUS BOOKS, you can read my reviews here :

BOOK #1 "Veil of Lies" :

BOOK #2 "Serpent in the Thorns" :

BOOK #3 "The Demon's Parchment" :

BOOK #4 "Troubled Bones" :

BOOK #5 "Blood Lance" :

BOOK #6 "Shadow of the Alchemist"

BOOK #7 "Cup of Blood"

BOOK #8 "The Silence of Stones"

Book review : Her Gentleman Thief by Robyn DeHart

Her Gentleman Thief
by Robyn DeHart

GENRE: Regency clean romance
My rating: ★★★★★

A delightful Regency novella of only about 30 pages! :-)

It's a proper romance, with no explicit scenes but a strong love connection and a completely satisfying ending.

____ IN A NUTSHELL ____
Annalise Petty is on her way to her wedding with her sister and maid when a highwayman holds up their carriage.
To protect her sister's reputation and to escape her impending marriage to a man she finds boring and solely interested in her land, she asks the highwayman to take her with him.

Griffin Hartwell, Viscount Benning, never imagined that playing the highwayman would bring him face-to-face with his own fiancée. Once alone, Griffin seizes the opportunity to show Annalise just how passionate he can be. But will his charade ruin their chance at a forever love? _________________________________

It's often difficult to find short stories, whether romance or mystery, that are truly satisfying, especially those that can be read in an hour or less.

And yet this story is adorable, very sweet with a hint of spice.

Although there isn't much time to properly get to know the characters, I still managed to become quite attached to them.

I can't say much more without revealing spoilers, except that Griffin, the MALE CHARACTER, was very sweet and utterly adorable. He embodies the role of a gentleman perfectly, yet he can also be adventurous, which I adored.

I like Annalise, the HEROINE, too. She isn't the classic beauty society requires, but she isn't envious of her sister; on the contrary, she is generous and protective, and she tends to act outspokenly.

With her brown hair and generous curves, she is beautiful in Griffin's eyes. Her indomitable and intelligent character is something that appeals to passionate men like him.

You'll have to read the rest of the story for yourself!

Suffice it to say that this intriguing, wonderful read left me wanting to read other stories or books by this author.

As always, thanks for stopping by and reading my review.
Wishing you all a happy Sunday !

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Giveaway : June 2025 Free Printable Calendar

A colorful monthly calendar: June 2025,

Hello and happy start of the month !

I was almost forgetting to post my printable monthly calendar, but here we are, June 2025 is ready to be downloaded for free.

You can use it as a desktop wallpaper on your pc or you can print it and and keep it wherever you like.
You can also reduce its size with any free app and print it in the shape of a postcard, to keep it in the book you are reading or in your bag.

Simply click on the preview image to download and save it on your device.

@TizianaFragnerGraphic
June 2025 Calendar
Size 1634 x 1264

Wishing you all a sunny and cheerful June and of course many great reads !!
Warm hugs and greetings from Italy --xxx--

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Book review : A Gentleman in Challenging Circumstances by Grace Burrowes

A Gentleman in Challenging Circumstances
The Lord Julian Mysteries book #3
by Grace Burrowes

GENRE: Regency era cozy mystery
My rating: ★★★★☆

This is a very enjoyable cozy mystery set in the Regency era.
It's not a fast-paced story, but the intense and well-developed investigation is worthy of Hercule Poirot (the famous detective created by Agatha Christie).

________ PLOT IN A NUTSHELL ________

Set in England during the Regency era, the story follows Lord Julian Caldicott, younger brother of the Duke of Waltham. Julian is a young war veteran still struggling with the physical and emotional wounds he suffered as a prisoner of the French.

During the war, Julian lost not only a part of himself but also his older brother, Harry.
Harry, known in London society for his charm and social life, served as a scout and spy (like Julian). Consequently, Harry's death is shrouded in mystery, and his life proves to be an intricate web of secrets and false appearances.
Now, Julian and Waltham unexpectedly find themselves caring for Harry's young son... but is he truly Harry's son? And which of the women in Harry's life is the child's real mother?

__________ * * * ___________

The MYSTERIES IN THIS SERIES are not murder mysteries, yet they are convoluted enough to require a classic, detailed investigation. This involves identifying everyone possibly connected to the case, even superficially, and questioning them one by one, piecing together the clues.

WHAT ALWAYS CAPTIVATES ME in Julian's mysteries is not only the investigation and the solution, but also the personal lives of the characters.
Despite being connected by family or long-standing friendships, they seem to truly begin to know each other only now, after emerging from the dramatic and painful experiences of the war and the human losses it caused.

The reader is completely drawn in by the emotional depth, which flows from Julian's first-person narration and his dialogues with loved ones.

Waltham, too, hides a secret from the world, one he only recently confessed to his younger brother. However, this secret continues to significantly impact both of their lives. In fact, until Julian finds peace within himself ( and so his "male humor" too, as he use to call it ), neither of them can have children.

Harry's possible son seems to be the only solution for providing an heir to the Dukedom (and all that it entailed at that time: lands, possessions, management, and the survival of an entire village), which makes the search even more emotionally fraught.
Discovering the truth could bring resolution or devastation... and what about the child's life? An innocent being who cannot and must not pay for the sins of others.

Even in this book, the CHARACTERS are all well-developed. With just a few lines and short scenes, the author enables us to understand their inner selves and judge their traits.

----> The clean language and in-depth investigation may appeal to lovers of classic Golden Age mysteries.
The pace is slow and without much action, but always filled with new developments and unexpected surprises.

----> WARNING : The book is readable as a standalone, but it is more enjoyable and easier to understand if you start with book #1.

----> Though Goodreads tags it as "historical romance," those seeking romance will be disappointed. It's almost nonexistent and certainly doesn't offer the sweetness and emotional outpouring that readers of Regency romance (even clean ones) usually expect.
Read it only if you enjoy cozy historical mysteries (don't look for a love story).

If you want to know more about PREVIOUS BOOKS, READ ALSO MY REVIEWS about "Lord Julian Mysteries BOOK 1 and BOOK 2" :

BOOK #1 "A Gentleman Fallen on Hard Times"

BOOK #2 "A Gentleman of Dubious Reputation"

Thanks you all for stopping by and reading my opinion :-)

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Book review : The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

The Frozen River
by Ariel Lawhon
GENRE : #historical-mystery
Standalone
My rating: ★★☆☆☆

Given the overwhelmingly positive reviews, my opinion likely diverges from the norm.
While categorized as a mystery, the book read more like a straightforward chronicle, lacking significant twists or emotional depth.
Plus I didn't dislike the protagonist, but I also didn't find myself particularly attached to her or the other characters.

Ultimately, the story, and particularly its narrative style, didn't align with my personal preferences.

My two-star rating is not intended as a judgment on the author's writing ability, but rather reflects my level of engagement and overall satisfaction with the reading experience, including what I perceived as a self-righteous ending. I found the first half of the book rather tedious. Despite my efforts to persevere, it became increasingly unenjoyable, and I struggled to finish it.

Normally, I abandon books I dislike after the first few chapters. However, because I was participating in a group read, I wanted to complete it, hoping for some element that would finally capture my interest and motivate me to continue.

_______ SYNOPSIS: Maine, 1789.
When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine the cause of death.
As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime, and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community.
Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town's most respected gentlemen, one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own.

Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie.

___________________________

____ REAL HISTORICAL CHARACTER ____ I appreciate that the plot is inspired by a real person: Martha Ballard, a midwife who delivered a remarkable number of newborns (over a thousand) and never lost a mother in childbirth.
The author discovered her story in an article while pregnant. The book includes historical notes that confirm Martha's biography and diaries, where she meticulously recorded events in a concise manner.

In addition to the character, the rape also occurred in real life. This historical basis initially intrigued me and encouraged me to read the book, but I was ultimately disappointed and unable to connect with the story in the way I had hoped.

_____ DISAPPOINTMENT WITH THE WRITING STYLE ____ I often enjoy books inspired by true events, or those that create fictionalized narratives around real individuals, whether well-known or obscure, like Martha.
This is why I enjoy historical fiction.
However, I read "fiction" to become more immersed than I typically would with non-fiction.
I appreciate stories told with suspense and pathos, eliciting a range of emotions beyond simple curiosity about the plot's development.

Unfortunately, I didn't share the enthusiasm expressed by other members of my reading group.
To me, it felt like a bland, emotionally sterile chronicle. I wonder if others felt similarly but chose not to comment.

The story is narrated in the first person by the protagonist. While this style initially disconcerted me (when I first encountered this kind of storytelling, many years ago now ), I quickly grew to appreciate it and often prefer it to third-person narration.
In this case, however, the matter-of-fact tone (which may have been intended to mimic the style of a diary, given the real Martha's diaries) prevented me from feeling invested in the story and from developing any empathy for Martha or her family.

______ DISAPPOINTMENT WITH THE ENDING _____ Even if the ending was ultimately desirable, I found it to be conveniently self-serving for the main character.

The book centers on life in 18th-century Maine and highlights the injustices faced by women, as well as the hypocrisy and bigotry prevalent in American society at the time (and, arguably, even now).

Yet, despite the protagonist being an open-minded woman married to an intelligent and equally progressive man, it's ultimately convenient for her and her family that ___WARNING SPOILER[ the whole truth doesn't come to light.
Throughout the book, she seeks to clarify a death that clearly occurred by murder (justice without a fair trial), despite the fact that she knows that the dead man is a complete scoundrel, guilty of despicable acts, but then when the truth is not what she likes, it is okay not to say anything? Come on! ]_SPOILER END__

I'm not suggesting the book is poorly written, only that the style didn't resonate with me.
It's marketed as a mystery, but I doubt it would satisfy typical whodunit fans. Had I known this beforehand, I wouldn't have chosen it for the group read.

I might recommend the book to those interested in a glimpse into 18th-century American society.
However, it's challenging to recommend a book I didn't enjoy.
Given the subjectivity of taste, I can only advise: give it a try, and if you like it from the start, great. If you're bored from the beginning, don't expect that to change.

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Book review : Unrequited by Martha Keyes

Unrequited
The Donovans #0.5
by Martha Keyes

GENRE: Regency clean romance
My rating: ★★★★★
full 5-star rating !!!!!!!

A wonderful and sweet, clean romance!

It's a short and light read, but with great intensity and is very engaging from start to finish.
This is the second time I've read a novel by Martha Keyes, and it's the second time I've given it a five-star rating.
I kept dreaming about the story and its characters for many days after finishing the book.

I loved it because, even though at first glance the plot might seem unoriginal, or even like the usual banal Regency love story, this short novel stands out from the rest.
There's no bickering or spite between lovers who then resolve their issues and have a happy ending, starting a life of comfort and privilege, as you might expect after reading the synopsis.

____ WHAT THE SYNOPSIS TELLS US: England, after the end of the war against Napoleon.
Elena MacKinnon has spent the last seven years training to become a proper English lady. When her childhood friend, Captain Theo Donovan, returns from serving in the Navy, he brings with him the memory of Elena’s humiliation: the ill-advised and ardent love letter she wrote him before his departure, which he ignored entirely.
Elena hopes to simultaneously suppress his memory of the letter and make him regret overlooking her, showing him just how refined an English lady she can be.
The only problem? She is not English, but a proud Scot—and her heart may be more enamored with Theo than ever.

_________*********__________*********________

As I already said the story doesn't include the bickering and foolish revenge that the back cover implies.
Elena only intends to seek revenge in the first few pages of the book, knowing that her childhood love is about to return from the war (now over) after having ignored her and made her suffer for seven long years.
As we all know, things rarely go according to plan, and both Elena and Theo find themselves in situations where it's difficult to understand what is real and what only appears to be.

The general plot summary on the back cover doesn't do the novel justice. It's misleading and suggests a story of little intensity, offering, at most, a few comic situations.

The reading is light and very pleasant, but the story also conveys deep feelings.
It subtly addresses serious themes such as the conflict between appearance and reality, the struggle for self-acceptance, and society's often unfair expectations, trapping individuals within rigid and unjust rules.

___ THE MAIN CHARACTER: ELENA ___ I would argue there's only one main character in this narrative: Elena, who tells us the whole story in the first person. Everything revolves around her feelings, assumptions, considerations, and thoughts. We get to know the other characters, including her beloved Theo, through her words and the lively dialogue.

____ EXCELLENT FIRST-PERSON NARRATION ___ Even though the events are told from her point of view, I assure you it's not boring at all; on the contrary, it's very captivating.

I really like first-person narration. In fact, when it's done well, I find it more engaging than third-person stories because it gives me the impression of hearing the confidences of a friend, allowing me to be more involved in the character's emotions.
Of course, the writer must skillfully insert surprising scenes and effectively convey the character's excitement, anticipation, passion, fear, happiness, and other emotional involvements to the reader.
It's not easy at all, but Martha Keyes excels at this. She has an exceptional writing style and makes you feel every little thrill and heartbeat of her characters.

___ THE MAIN CHARACTER'S BELOVED: THEO _____ Through Elena's keen observations and thoughtful reflections, we are able to discern, along with her, the emotions of the other characters, especially the fascinating and enigmatic Theo.
He is a complex character who is difficult to judge at first (and here we see the author's skill in leading us to make at least three or four different conjectures).
Despite the brevity of the novel, he gradually reveals himself to the reader. He pleasantly surprised me and made me read voraciously to discover new developments.

___ SIDE CHARACTERS ___ Each of them plays a relatively small role, which is understandable in such a short novel, but I was still satisfied with how the author managed to bring out the essence of each, providing us with a complete and gratifying picture of the situation and the dynamics of the events.

___ FULFILLING HAPPY ENDING ___ Martha Keyes surprised me even with the ending, which is quite original and different from the usual happy endings.

___ AN UNDERLYING THEME, HIDDEN BETWEEN THE LINES ___ What I appreciate in some novels are the serious themes that are addressed while entertaining us.
The underlying theme of this book is the acceptance of oneself – embracing who you are and your origins – without conforming to the rigid rules imposed by society. These rules, based on prejudices, dictate who is worthy and who is not, who is better and who is worse. This theme remains relevant in every era, even today, despite the ongoing battles fought in the name of equality and respect for all.

Elena is Scottish, and therefore her accent is not favored by the English. She grew up with a certain freedom of expression, running in nature and interacting with commoners.
While, initially, we observe her efforts to please society and Theo, and Theo's efforts to fulfill a parent's dream, we see these two caterpillars transform into butterflies and fly with their own colors during the story.
I really liked it!

____ CONCLUSION ___ In summary, this is a clean romance with just kissing, and with characters and an ending that are a little different from the usual clichés.
A pleasant read that I recommend to all romantic and dreamy readers who aren't necessarily looking for hot sex, alpha males, and scandals.

----> SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES !

Thank you for reading my review. I hope you'll enjoy the book as much as I did.
Please forgive any remaining English grammar errors, as English is not my first language.

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Book review : In the Shadow of the Storm by Anna Belfrage

In the Shadow of the Storm
The King's Greatest Enemy #1
by Anna Belfrage
GENRE: Historical adventure romance
My rating: ★★★★☆

Nice and entertaining historical fiction based on true events.
What did I expect from this book? War, love and great passion in both themes.
Was I satisfied? Yes and no.

___ THE PLOT IN A NUTSHELL ___ England, 1321.
Adam de Guirande owes his lord, Roger Mortimer, much more than loyalty. He owes him his life and all his possessions, he also owes him his beautiful wife, even if Kit is not exactly the woman Lord Roger thinks she is.
Kit, half-sister and perfect copy of Katherine de Monmouth, has been kidnapped and forced to marry Adam under a false name, since the real Katherine has run away.
Rumors about Katherine's virginity (who is actually Kit), jealousy, pride and strong attraction that is turning into real feelings, will not make married life easy.
Domestic matters, however, become irrelevant when the king decides to punish his rebellious barons.
So, when Lord Roger goes to fight, Adam has no choice but to ride with him, no matter the cost.

_____________________

Overall, I enjoyed the book and rate it a full 4 stars.
However, it lacked that certain something extra that makes a story truly unique and compelling, the kind that excites you so much that you want to reread it.

___ THE MAIN CHARACTERS ___

The characters stayed with me for days after I finished reading their story. However, I must confess that it took until about 35% of the way through the book before I started to "like" the hero.
Even after my dislike faded, I never perceived him as a true hero.

Adam followed his lord into battle for several reasons: affection, gratitude, and duty.
He was injured, suffered a long imprisonment, and endured unjust torture, and was betrayed by someone close to him.
Yet, I never saw him do anything particularly daring in war or for his family.
He had a lot of sex with his wife; much of his relationship with Kit (aside from moments of touchiness and stubbornness) takes place in bed.

In my opinion, the author focused too much on Adam's beauty, his devotion to his lord, and his love (expressed through words and sex) for his wife.
The writer neglected to have him perform brave and noteworthy actions that would have showcased his courage and big heart. 
As I said, after 35% of the book, the character finally overcomes that antipathy that almost made me stop reading.
However, the only two times we see him take action ( WARNING SPOILER ______when he kills an attacker of his wife and helps someone escape from captivity SPOILER END______), they are described so briefly that they don't feel significant.

In contrast, the heroine demonstrates grit and determination. She transforms an unfortunate event into an opportunity for love and saves both her beloved and herself "by the skin of their teeth" several times.

Kit is the character the author focuses on the most. She is immediately presented as a victim of circumstance who doesn't wallow in her misfortune.
Instead, she reacts to adversity, creating her own fortune through her ingenuity, good heart, ability to forgive, optimism even in desperate moments, and sheer willpower.
She is a resilient young woman who only falls slightly into stubbornness and whims at the end, but I challenge any other woman in her place not to behave similarly, you know: too much of a thing can spoil it.

_____ One of Adam's brothers, the young priest William, is more than a side character, he is practically a co-protagonist for 80% of the story.
He is a positive character, always by Kit's side and ready to support her and Adam.
What I didn't like is that the author makes him disappear at a certain point, giving him another role, and we hear nothing more about him.
He appears twice briefly during a rescue and escape, and then vanishes. I was disappointed by this.
Perhaps the character will reappear in later books?
I hope so, and I also hope the author doesn't eliminate him by killing him off, as she did with other characters we grew fond of, only to find out about their deaths casually through dialogue.

The book is quite long (for my standards), and I felt like every action was treated as a minor addition to the "heartbreaking" love story between the two protagonists (a love that unfolds mostly in bed... which isn't a problem because it's never vulgar, but love isn't only shown through sex).

What I really appreciate in historical fiction is when it seamlessly blends imagined elements with real historical events, featuring both fictional and historical figures.
The author succeeded admirably in this, to the point that I felt compelled to expand my historical knowledge by researching online through articles and Wikipedia.

___ HISTORICAL PART ___

The historical event that inspired the author and around which the destinies of Kit, Adam, and their loved ones revolve is a rebellion of some barons against King Edward II of England, who despotically gave his favorite lands already owned by barons and other nobles.
The king's favorite was the villain of the story, who besieged castles, imprisoned women and children, and mercilessly killed even those who had surrendered.

Actually, the situation is more complex and compelling than I've described, but if I explained it in more detail, it would diminish the pleasure of reading and discovering the historical elements intertwined with the author's imagination.

___ HISTORICAL CHARACTERS ___

Lord Roger Mortimer, his wife, and the king's favorite Hugh Despenser all play fundamental roles in the book. All of them are well portrayed.

The author's HISTORICAL NOTES are well-written and quite exhaustive regarding both events and characters.
While most authors place historical notes at the end to freely explain things without revealing spoilers, I always read them first because they help me understand the plot better and gain a broader, more satisfying view of the whole story.
If a story is well-told, no spoiler can ruin it for me. :-)

----> Clean language. 
----> Several hot sex scenes, but never vulgar. 
----> If you are approaching the reading, you too may hate the hero, hold on, after the first few chapters, he becomes a decent character.

IN CONCLUSION:
Despite the complaints I mentioned at the beginning of my review, the Kit-Adam couple resonated with me, and I will definitely read the sequel.

Thank you for reading my opinion. I hope it is helpful in deciding whether or not to read this series.

( Please forgive any errors you may find in my text, English is not my first language ).
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Book review : A Deadly Affair by Carla Simpson

A Deadly Affair
Angus Brodie & Mikaela Forsythe book 1
by Carla Simpson
GENRE : #Victorian era cozy mystery

My rating: ★★★★☆
Actually 3,8 stars rounded up to 4.

Victorian mystery with a hint of romance and humor.
I liked it, but I wasn't crazy about it. Since it doesn't particularly stand out from numerous other "historical mystery-romance" series, whether set in the Victorian era, the Regency period, or the 1920s, I can't rate it higher than a 3.8, rounded up to 4.

________ PLOT IN SHORT________ London, 1889. Mikaela Forsythe's sister is missing, and her sister's maid has been found murdered. While the police prove inefficient (if not disinterested) in looking for clues, Mikaela promises herself to find her sister alive and bring the culprits to justice.

Directed by her aunt to hire private detective (and former police inspector) Angus Brodie, Mikaela refuses to be sidelined during the investigation. Intelligent, stubborn, cunning, and skilled in self-defense, she will give Brodie a hard time trying to keep her safe.

During the investigations in the darkest places, frequented by shady individuals, clues will emerge that lead to something much bigger: a possible conspiracy? And against whom? It will be up to this unlikely couple, and their faithful friends, to find out and act accordingly.

___________________ * * *_____________________

MY OPINION

--> I'm giving 4 full stars mainly for the characters (both main and secondary), the subtle romantic vein, and the pleasantly humorous style of the story.
However, the mystery itself is worth only 2.5 stars: it's neither compelling nor original, and the resolution is unsatisfying.

Maybe if I had read it a few years ago, before reading so many other similar series, I would have appreciated it more; I might have even found it great.

Having read it after already enjoying so many similar books, I couldn't feel as involved as I would have liked.
However, for those who love light mysteries, it is, as a whole, a pleasant read, useful for escaping daily worries and reviving your good mood, thanks to the witty dialogues and some kisses that will delight the most romantic readers.

______ MAIN CHARACTERS_____ They are adorable, even if they follow the usual clichés:

SHE is an extraordinary woman whose intelligence, curiosity, and desire for action are supported by wealth. This has allowed her to have an education, to travel far and wide, and to live adventures without caring about conventions – something that an intelligent and enterprising, but poor, woman could not have done. (Hmm... maybe I'm a little tired of "super-mega-brilliant-and-rich" heroines. It would be interesting and nice to read more often about quick-witted working-class women who can't resist the urge to investigate!).
Oh, I almost forgot: like all "brave and canny" female protagonists, she is obviously also stubborn. If the male character tells her "not to do" something, it's guaranteed that she will do it – something a bit unbearable for me, but obviously hilarious and effective in the dynamics of the stories.

HE, as always in this kind of reading, is the professional. In this book, he works independently as a detective, but he has the experience he acquired as a police inspector. As always, he has good instincts, he is capable and charming, he is introverted with a tormented past and, naturally, at the beginning, he doesn't give much credit to the "pushy woman."
But then, fascinated by her smartness and resourcefulness, he has to change his mind.
Irony, respect for women, right ideals, honesty, and courage complete the figure of the hero of the story, and I cannot deny that he fascinates me too.

So, in conclusion, the protagonists are amusing and even though their actions and reactions are predictable, their lively and ironic dialogues not only made me smile a lot while reading but also encouraged me to turn the pages to see how their bickering and mutual attraction progressed.

The "good" SIDE CHARACTERS are quite original, also nice, ironic and ready to do their best to help our two favorites.
The author manages to express the nature and mentality of each of them in a lively and fun way.

----> THE ONLY FLAW AMONG THE CHARACTERS: the villains, who usually have an equally important role in mysteries, here are portrayed in a few scenes, have few lines in the whole book and are completely ignored by the author.
I think this has taken away a lot of suspense and pathos from the story.
I hope that in the next books both the mystery and the villains will be more impressive.

___ A BLOOMING ROMANCE ___ Throughout the story, I had the impression that the author focused more on the relationship between the two characters and their interaction with their friends who work with them (including the cute dog) than on creating an intricate and compelling mystery.

Throughout the narrative, the bickering feels like a veiled courtship.
Despite coming from different backgrounds, the two characters are similar in some respects (cleverness, stubbornness, sense of justice, pride and desire to assert their autonomy)and clearly feel an attraction to each other.

To confirm this, book #1 in the series gives us a beautiful first kiss, something that usually happens in the subsequent volumes of a mystery-romance series.
"Clean" kiss, but unexpected and pleasant to read, which, together with another final surprise, invites readers to follow the development of the relationship in the next books.

_____ THE MYSTERY_____ As I said previously, this is, in my opinion, the weakest part of the book.
I didn't find it well-thought-out; I didn't encounter any major twists, and even the explanation of the mystery left much to be desired.
----> Perhaps this gap could have been filled with an interesting historical element (as in the fantastic "Lady Emily" series by Tasha Alexander), but unfortunately, apart from knowing that we are in the Victorian era and that Jack the Ripper was active, there are no historical connections. The fact that the monarchs are mentioned and their offspring make a brief appearance is not enough to make the whole thing historically relevant.

Anyway, a nice, light read to spend your leisure time.
----> Clean language, no sex scenes and no gruesome descriptions make the book suitable for all ages.

Thanks for reading my opinion, and please be lenient with my English; it's not my first language.

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Giveaway : May 2025 Free Printable Calendar

May 2025 free printable calendar

Hello dear friends !

It's been a while since I last posted a monthly calendar. I admit I've been feeling particularly lazy to use Photoshop and create graphics.

I had a difficult time this winter, as I lost my job last January.
I couldn't even focus on my reading, let alone find any creative inspiration.

Things aren't much better currently, but Spring usually brings more opportunities and the color and perfume of flowers are certainly magical for improving one's mood.
So, here it is: the May 2025 monthly calendar, which you can download for FREE and then print (or use as a desktop wallpaper).

To download, simply click on the preview image and save it on your device.

@TizianaFragnerGraphic
May 2025 Calendar
Size 1634 x 1264

I was inspired by all the blooming trees in my garden and scattered along the road and in the fields I see when walking with my dog.

I hope you like it! Enjoy :-)

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Book review : The Blighted Cliffs by Edwin Thomas

The Blighted Cliffs
Reluctant Adventures of Lieutenant Martin Jerrold Book #1
by Edwin Thomas

GENRE: #Historical-adventure-mystery

My rating: ★★★★☆

This is an adventurous mystery, set against the backdrop of 1806 Dover when the city was infested by smugglers and threatened by the French tyrant Napoleon.

I found it nice and engaging from the start, but it became more compelling chapter after chapter, involving the main character in one adventure (or rather misadventure ) after another.
The second part is wonderfully fast-paced and I couldn't help but turn the page to see what would happen next.

This is the first mystery I've read where the main character belongs to the naval world.
Although I loved the "Hornblower" tv series and the "Master and Commander" movie ( both based on well known book series ) I never read a book in that genre until now.
Of course this one is far less dramatic than the two I named above, but the same it has been a captivating story.
I suggest it to those looking for a light, adventurous read.
I think I'll certainly try other adventure and mystery novels in this genre from now on.

__ PLOT IN SHORT __ England, 1806.
Lieutenant Martin Jerrold is sent by his uncle, the Admiral, to the White Cliffs of Dover, with one final chance to redeem his reputation, after his poor performance (or rather: no performance at all) during the Battle of Trafalgar.

On his first night in Dover, while loitering near the harbor, he stumbles upon a body that has fallen from the cliffs.
The consequence is immediate: he's now the prime suspect in the murder.
Distrusted by his superiors, set upon by intriguingly well-informed smugglers, and attacked by the French at sea, Jerrold has two weeks to clear his name and save his skin... or perish in the attempt.

__________________

__ MAIN CHARACTER __ A really nice main character.
He is a young man (about 25 years old) portrayed in the general plot as a coward, but he is not the kind of slimy person whose cowardice makes others pay the consequences. Absolutely not.

Jerrold is the kind of boy who is not yet very keen on taking on any kind of responsibility and is naturally inclined to do as little work as possible.
A young man who is still immature, we would say nowadays.

Unfortunately, fate and his impulsive and somewhat rebellious nature constantly lead him into trouble.
I couldn't help but love him and root for him though,because of his inherent goodness and because his impulsiveness, while causing problems, also compels him to act in recklessly heroic ways, often surprising even himself.

_ SIDE CHARACTERS___ They are equally well-developed.
Whether virtuous or villainous, each character effectively expresses themselves through vivid actions and dialogues. I found them all remarkably believable.

_ HISTORICAL PART___
The story is not only centered around a murder's mystery, but it tells us the significant problem of smuggling along the English coast at the time, as well as the threat of a French invasion.

Although it may appear to be a light read dedicated to pure entertainment, this story is actually based on historical facts and lesser-known events. Those events are not widely discussed in history books, but they're supported by clues and evidence.
I cannot tell you more, because if I did, I would spoil the mystery's resolution.
You will find out everything in the ending and in the author's historical notes.

Reading this story also revealed that hot air balloons already existed in 1785, a fact I was unaware of, in fact I used to think that people's adventures with these means belonged to the end of the 19th century.
That's why I love historical fiction: one always has something new to learn !

_ At the end of the book there are INTERESTING AUTHOR NOTES about true history and I suggest you not to read before the end of the story if you want to avoid spoilers.

_ READABLE AS A STANDALONE _
-----> It's book#1 in a series of 3, but it offers a satisfying happy ending with no cliffhanger.

_ SUITABLE TO ALL AGES _
----> Clean language, no gruesome scene.

Thanks for reading my opinion and please forgive any errors you may find in my review, since English is not my language.

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Book review : The Organ Job by James Y.Bartlett

The Organ Job
Johann Sebastian Bach Musical Mystery book #1
by James Y.Bartlett

GENRE: #Historical-cozy-mystery

My rating: ★★☆☆☆
Real rating : 2.5

How I wish I had enjoyed this cozy mystery!
It had the potential to be a fantastic light read and a fantastic series to get attached to.
I love classical music and I simply adore settings in 18th century central Europe.

So when I saw this book for free on a book funnel ( and still available for free on Kindle unlimited ) my excitement was sky high!
Unfortunately I really struggled to get to the end and resist the temptation to abandon it.

Before to explain all reasons why it disappointed me, I gonna tell you something about the story :

___PLOT IN SHORT___ Kingdom of Prussia, 1732.
The famous composer Johann Sebastian Bach, along with his wife Anna Magdalena and his cousin and personal secretary Elias Bach, is going from Leipzig to Cassel (now Kassel) to tune the organ of the most important church in the city.
During their stay they learn of the suspicious death of the organist's daughter and the main suspect is her husband, who is also the pastor of the important Martinskirche.
The man has a lot of power and knows how to deceive (and threaten) the people around him.
Only Sebastian, with his wit and the help of his family and a good colleague, can bring the truth to light.
__________________

While I appreciate the idea of a famous composer using his observational skills and insight to uncover the truth, reading the story turned out to be boring and lacking the suggestive charm that the historical set should give.

1) As my plot summary reveals, the culprit is known from the outset (a bit like in the TV series Columbus).
Therefore, to maintain reader engagement, the story requires compelling twists and turns in both the investigation and its narration. Unfortunately, this narrative lacks such twists, and the investigation itself is unconvincing. The narration is unremarkable.

2) The reason why I love reading historical fiction and cozy mysteries set in the past is because I love the feeling of being transported to bygone eras and surrounded by characters who once lived, breathing the suggestive atmosphere of beautiful cities at those times.

However, simply describing the clothing, cuisine, and prominent buildings of a time period is insufficient to create a truly immersive atmosphere.
I've read historical fiction where authors effectively use vivid descriptions of scenes, smells, sensations, and colors to create a palpable sense of the past.
Regrettably, this author failed to achieve that effect for me.

3) The story is told in first person by 3 main characters ( Bach, his wife and his cousin ) + 2 side characters ( Bach's friend and the organist's living daughter ).
I usually enjoy first-person narration, actually it's my favorite one, but here it proved too confusing.

4) The ending was also quite disappointing: (view spoiler)[ no prison or other real punishment for the villain who will escape in the night and no happy ending for the two lovers, who will continue their lives living in different cities. (hide spoiler)]

I only appreciated the cozy atmosphere and the fact that the main characters were based on real people, which motivated me to research their history independently.

The 18th-century setting in Kassel also prompted me to search online for the historical palaces and locations mentioned, leading me to virtually explore the city.
It could have been a compelling historical "whodunit" series if the author had developed the characters more fully, limited the narration to the first-person perspective of one or, at most, two characters and crafted an intricate and captivating mystery with twists that would entice readers to eagerly turn the page.

More descriptive details of the city, rather than focusing on culinary dishes and character outfits, would have made the setting more immersive.
Overall, it was a missed opportunity. For now, I don't plan to read book #2 (already published and available).

Thanks for reading my opinion and sorry for any errors in my text, English is not my native language.

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Book review : City of Vengeance by D.V. Bishop

City of Vengeance
Cesare Aldo book #1
by D.V. Bishop
GENRE: #Historical-mystery #Renassaince-Italy

My rating: ★★★☆☆
This is a mystery set in mid-16th century Florence, Italy.

I'm Italian (so please forgive my English) and I'm always drawn to historical fiction set in the most beautiful and important cities of my country, especially when real historical figures play a role, even a small one, in the story.

The mystery itself wasn't bad, not the best and most engaging I've read in years, but it had a lot of potential to be a great read, however, some things really bothered me and that's why I rated it 3 stars, when it could have been 4 stars.

__PLOT IN SHORT ___ Florence. Winter, 1536.
A prominent Jewish moneylender is murdered in his home, a death with wide implications in a city powered by immense wealth.

Cesare Aldo, a former soldier and now an officer of the Renaissance city’s most feared criminal court, is given four days to solve the murder: catch the killer before the feast of Epiphany – or suffer the consequences.
During his investigations Aldo uncovers a plot to overthrow the volatile ruler of Florence, Alessandro de’ Medici. If the Duke falls, it will endanger the whole city.

A day before another murder had happened: a young boy, who was prostituting himself disguised as a woman.
Strocchi, a constable, Aldo's colleague, wants to shed light on the case, discovering that here too important people who have in their hands the city's trade, are involved with the dead man (or with the murder).

In all this is intertwined with Aldo's private life, in fact he hides a secret and a rival officer of the court is determined to expose some details about Aldo that could lead to his ruin.
Strocchi on the contrary is a sincere young constable still full of ideals and eager to do the right thing, one Aldo can trust.

Would Aldo and Strocchi be able to stop the conspiracy before anyone else dies or will they be defeated by politics and corrupt people greedy for gain and power?
________________

DID I LIKE IT ? My opinions on this book are controversial :

__ABOUT THE MYSTERY ___

YES ---> I liked that part of this BOOK was INSPIRED BY A REAL HISTORICAL EVENT : the murder of Alessandro de Medici which took place in 1537.
I always find historical fiction very interesting when true history is well mixed with fictional elements and I think the writer did it well.

Those who are not Italian will appreciate the author's historical notes, useful and stimulating for better documentation even just by reading Wikipedia.

NO ---> It is true that the book is written in English, so most readers probably don't know many things about the Medici, but I am Italian and since the son of a famous leader (whom a street in my city is also named after) is involved in the story, I already knew the culprit ( ____WARNING : SPOILER[ and also the fact that he is not captured ] SPOILER END _____ ) so I missed a part of the suspense.
Taking inspiration from real events is right, but putting a murder in a book, which you can even read about on the web, is not the best choice.

Furthermore, the first fictional murder seems to almost be forgotten at a certain point in the book and the connection between the two murders is very weak/non-existent.

__ ABOUT THE MAIN CHARACTERS __

YES ---> I became fond of both main characters: Cesare Aldo (at least until 98% of the book when he disappointed me) and Carlo Strocchi.
It's easy to appreciate characters when they are good-hearted men in a world where money and power can corrupt even men of the church as it happened in those days.
It's even easier when one of them has had a troubled past.

The same goes for a secondary character that I think will be recurring in the following books: Saul Orvieto, a Jewish doctor with whom Aldo develops a sentimental bond.

I would have liked to have a little more of the characters' private lives in the book and if I were to read more books in the series, it would be more out of interest in the characters than the mysteries they investigate.

NO---> As you can see above I liked the character the series is named after, Cesare Aldo, almost until the end, when I never expected him to ruin the ending for the readers and behave like a real hypocrite.
How ?
I can only tell you with a SPOILER ( don't read it if you plan to read the book ) ____WARNING : SPOILER[ _ Aldo in the end reveals a truth that had remained hidden: the real culprit of the fictional murder, who was a good boy who in a fight had killed a man hated by everyone for his wickedness.
Not only does Aldo ruin the happiness of two lovers, but his gesture leads the boy to commit suicide.
Aldo's lover had asked him to keep quiet, he knew that the boy was a good person and Aldo could have given him the chance to redeem himself.
I was disappointed by this ending, but I thought that Aldo wanted justice at all costs, not excusing the murder even if the victim was despicable and even if the murder had not been premeditated, but had occurred by accident.
THE REAL PROBLEM FOR ME was when Aldo, on that same night, killed an equally despicable and evil man, so that he would not reveal his secret and thus save his career and life (Aldo is gay and in those days one would end up rotting in prison).
SO HE SET HIMSELF UP AS JUDGE OF ANOTHER, BUT THEN HYPOCRITICALLY COMMITTED THE SAME ACTION: A MURDER!
I wouldn't have minded killing the blackmailer bastard, if Aldo hadn't first condemned the boy to flee and take his own life.
But he ruined a boy's life for a wrong action and then immediately after committed the same action to save his good name and with it himself.
UNACCEPTABLE ! ] SPOILER END _____
This contributed to making me give up continuing the series.
I can't read books where I don't have respect for the main character.

___ ABOUT THE WRITING STYLE __

NO ---> I don't know if the author has been to Italy or has Italian friends, in any case he stuffed the first half of the book with the most vulgar word that we Italians have to express male genitals: "cazzo" and "palle" (sorry if I report it here).
" C..." It's a disgusting word and within the first 25% of the book, it appears frequently, approximately every two to three pages, even in vulgar contexts such as: sucking his "c....".
Then from 25% to 50% of the book it is still a recurring word even in sentences where it could have been avoided. This thing disgusted me a lot, even if in Italy that dirty word has now become a common exclamation.
The issue is not only the vulgarity of the word itself, but also the vulgarity of the sentences in which it was used.
The constant repetition of this word, appearing on almost every page, was disgusting and made me want to stop reading.
If the author didn't want to use the clinical word "penis", he could have employed other Italian words that indicate the male genital organ, such as "uccello" or "pisello," which are less overtly vulgar than the word chosen by him.

The author also had fun inserting here and there Italian words that are readily translatable into English (secretary, office, family , puttana (whore)...) and the purpose of this stylistic choice makes no sense.

--> The atmosphere was no longer Italian because of those words, the author should have instead concentrated a little on some suggestive description of Florence, but apart from mentioning the name of some palaces, there is no description that transports the reader to 16th century Florence.
I recently read a book set in Venice in which there were words in Venetian (which are explainable in Italian, but do not have a corresponding word) and in Italian of the time that would not be translatable and therefore it was right.
BUT IN THIS BOOK THIS DID NOT MAKE SENSE and it seemed ridiculous to me.

Thanks for reading my opinion :-)

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