The Price of Desire

Two intriguing, conflicted, intelligent, independent people drawn together in circumstances not of their choosing, find in elements of their lives a way to communicate in some of the most intelligent dialogue written in this genre. The cover of this book does no justice to the complexities and nuances of the story line. I will keep this book to reread if only to pick up on some of the story, and dialogue nuances I missed in prior readings. I can heartily recommend this book. - BTW the elements of child molestation, abuse is handled very tastefully, as tasteful as possible and is not to be ignored - it has happened throughout history and to pretend otherwise is impossible - Jo Goodman has written an excellent book , one of the best I have read in a while.

This is by far one of my favorite books. In my opinion is a pretty heavy read compared to all of you normal historical romances. Olivia is a tortured soul but has an unbreakable spirit. I felt as if she was one of those women who no matter what life threw at her, she would never allow her mind to break or become someones victim. Griffin was a great lead and companion to her. He wanted so much to be her savior, but realized that it was not what Olivia needed in her life. He allowed her to be her own person while letting her know that he would still be there for her. This one is a keeper.

Ms. Goodman tackles some really serious subject matter that could have made the book an uncomfortable read. She does not get too graphic and enough time has passed since the incidents that it not as torturous as it could have been for which I'm thankful. On the other hand, it's serious enough and emotionally draining enough that it gives the book a heft and depth that most romance novels can't come close to. I've found that most of Ms. Goodman's heroes and heroines have a certain similarity in disposition and temperment. It's a good thing I love these traits and can't get enough of them or they'd start to seem a little too alike. But I do love them. Griffin and Olivia are no exception. They are both smart, even tempered, and yet damaged people. It's beautiful to see them learn to know and love each other. I'm glad the author gave them enough time to do that and not fall into each others arms right away, but soon enough that I didn't get frustrated. As for the unexpected appearance of a son halfway though, it was a bit disconcerting, especially the fairly easy acceptance of him as Griffin's heir. But there were little things that made me think that he really is his son, like his fascination with toy soldiers and his fantastical memory. In the end - if both Griffin and Olivia accept him - then I guess I can too. And it doesn't hurt that he really is a great little boy. The villains didn't get the comeuppance that I was hoping for, but then that much bloodshed might not have been the best way to end the book. I was satisfied enough and I'm convinced that Griffin and Olivia are going to live out a well deserved HEA. I couldn't ask for anything more.

I rated this book 5 stars because the author covered a sensitive subject in a tasteful, interesting, and sympathetic way. As with the previous reviewer, I did feel a bit let down by the ending. However, it was probably consistent with how such things were handled at that period of time.

There is not another author who can portray the "tortured heroine" so well. Olivia's story is revealed very slowly, bit by bit, leaving the reader anticipating the horror that you know is coming. The hero, Griffin, is excellent in his subtle ability to "love" our heroine into trusting him with her secrets. I so wanted the "villain" to get his come-uppance at the end, but I suppose the way Ms. Goodman achieved this was pretty good, if not what I was hoping for. I have read almost all of Goodman's books and have a hard time deciding which series I like best. This story reminded me most of her "Compass Club" series, one of my favorites. I highly recommend this book for all who enjoy "meaty" stories, not the light fluff that a lot of romantic authors are spinning out these days.