Ally Grayson never wanted to be a heroine--she dreamed of writing great stories, not living in a fairy tale. But when she's abducted by a charming highwayman right out of a novel, Ally finds herself thoroughly enchanted. No matter that she's betrothed to another--or that she has no intention of binding herself in an arranged marriage anyway. But when Mark, her burdensome fiancé, is revealed to be none other than the rogue of her dreams, Ally must make a choice: plunge into a world of murder and deceit without a protector, or place her trust in the man who lies to her but makes her heart sing.
I thought this was a fun read. The interplay between the two main characters is often witty and fun and I found their romance mostly believable. There is some definite suspense in the story, with a conclusion that isn't entirely predictable from the onset. Some might find the three "aunties" too much like Disney fairy godmothers, but I found them fun and lighthearted. I enjoyed the banter between the hero and heroine, particularly in regards to the hero's double identity. I am finding that I appreciate Shannon Drake's style because her stories generally have strong male and female characters, rather well-developed elements of suspense, and generally believable romantic encounters. These encounters are usually engaging but not overly graphic (not to mention that they are woven into the story, rather than having a story woven about them!).
Don't understand all the bad reviews...
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
Hello, This is the 1st book I have read by Shannon Drake/Heather Graham. I thought it was an excellent read. I was able to get through it without swearing at the hero or heroine for doing something predictable and sterotypical in romances. I thought the dialogure was refreshing, the hero not too overbearing, the heroine not TOO stupid and the setting was SUPERB! It is Victorian England, and there are telephones, electricity (to the the monied few) and anti monarchy sentiments! I would have to agree the actual relationship between Mark/Ally was not the deepest. When they made love the first time I was rather shocked, but with all the subplot and so on, there was only so much to author could write. Now as I said at the beginning , this is only my first book of the author- in any genre. I am assuming people who are accustomed to her writing more substantially might be dissapointed, however those who are burned out on stories about 'bon ton' and rides in Hyde Park will find this a GEM!
A exhilirating gothic romance
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I found it while waiting at the drug store for a perscription. I immediatly found myself wanting to read more about Ally and the tumoltous world she is in. I found that the writing style is pleasurable to read not overly wordy but to the point. I also enjoyed the mystery/plot though it could have been a bit stronger. Fan's of Drake's won't be disappointed by thise light read. I enjoyed the twists and turns as well, though not as unpredictable as those in the North Kingdom.
the highwayman and the orphan
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
Ally is a girl caught between a few worlds. It's the turn of the century - she rides in a carriage, but horseless carriages exist and are on the rise. She lives in a cottage in the woods with her fairy godmothers, but is very informed about and concerned with the modern world. She has the courage to stand up to a highwayman, but accepts a marriage arranged by her guardians. The romance is hot, the story is pretty good, though the mystery/plot could have been a bit stronger. The characters are great, but I've a feeling that some of the characters are explained in other books, so I've missed some of it. Overall, though, this was a fun read and happy romp. (*)>
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.