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gems_31's review against another edition
4.0
Ok, right off the bat I have to get something off of my chest that really annoyed me about this book, hence the drop to 4 stars.
The back states that the author took insperation from the story Cinderella... Apart from a few references Glass Slippers, stepmother and two stepsisters (who are not all that wicked nor horrid) a ball, and an unpredictable 'fairy godmother' who helps our heroine it was nothing like Cinderlla and it really annoyed me.
I have read Eloisa James [b:A Kiss at Midnight|6957682|A Kiss at Midnight (Happily Ever Afters, #1)|Eloisa James|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1294044185s/6957682.jpg|7193900], which also was inspired by Cinderella and had all the recognisable traites of the cinderella story in them, but James managed to give it an excellent twist which made it fresh but also very recognisable compared to the source material.
DiPasque did not and I kept waiting for the magic and those little recognisable traites from the orginal source material to pop in. When they didn't, it frustrated me.
So in the end I had to divorce myself from the fact that the author states that it is inspired by Cinderella and look at it as a Regency/Historic romance with some erotic elements in it and only then did I manage to see it for what its worth.
A very good story about a young woman who makes the decision to put her good name aside for the sake of her family. This results in her falling into the arms of the man she dreamed about when she was a girl. What starts off as a purely sexual relationship blossoms very well into something much more in a very good and natural way. It never seems forced and both the hero and heroine don't fall into the normal cliches.
I'm not going to spoil it other than say they do get their happily Ever After and the sex scenes sizzle.
Ignore the quote about it being inspired by Cinderella for what litlle references there is are not vital to the story.
I'm not sure if I would read any of the authors other books, but it was a nice distraction.
The back states that the author took insperation from the story Cinderella... Apart from a few references Glass Slippers, stepmother and two stepsisters (who are not all that wicked nor horrid) a ball, and an unpredictable 'fairy godmother' who helps our heroine it was nothing like Cinderlla and it really annoyed me.
I have read Eloisa James [b:A Kiss at Midnight|6957682|A Kiss at Midnight (Happily Ever Afters, #1)|Eloisa James|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1294044185s/6957682.jpg|7193900], which also was inspired by Cinderella and had all the recognisable traites of the cinderella story in them, but James managed to give it an excellent twist which made it fresh but also very recognisable compared to the source material.
DiPasque did not and I kept waiting for the magic and those little recognisable traites from the orginal source material to pop in. When they didn't, it frustrated me.
So in the end I had to divorce myself from the fact that the author states that it is inspired by Cinderella and look at it as a Regency/Historic romance with some erotic elements in it and only then did I manage to see it for what its worth.
A very good story about a young woman who makes the decision to put her good name aside for the sake of her family. This results in her falling into the arms of the man she dreamed about when she was a girl. What starts off as a purely sexual relationship blossoms very well into something much more in a very good and natural way. It never seems forced and both the hero and heroine don't fall into the normal cliches.
I'm not going to spoil it other than say they do get their happily Ever After and the sex scenes sizzle.
Ignore the quote about it being inspired by Cinderella for what litlle references there is are not vital to the story.
I'm not sure if I would read any of the authors other books, but it was a nice distraction.
alexiachantel's review against another edition
4.0
What is it exactly about fairy tales that capture our interest? The beautiful damsel in distress, the handsome prince fighting for her love and rescue, or the magic that no matter who you are in life someone will look at you and think the world rests in your arms? Whatever the reason DiPasqua’s version of Cinderella immerse you in a tale impossible to put down.
Desperation can make people do things that they would normally turn away from immediately. From the beginning Sabine shows her fiery determined side, even when faced with giving up her virginity to keep up a ruse to save her family. Jules is in his own state of desperation yet he still becomes ensnared in the arms of a silvery blond his conscience is telling him to stay away from.
No time is wasted in bringing Sabine and her prince together and as soon as they lay eyes on each other the sparks start to fly. Jules uses all of his skill as a lover on Sabine, so much that you will be melting right along with her. Sensuously written, Midnight Dance brings plenty of toe curling scenes that only add to the perfection of the story as a whole.
The whole story line is wonderfully written. You will be able to pick up the Cinderella tale hidden within but DiPasqua adds so much more you will quickly agree this is the best version of this classic fairy tale you have ever read. DiPasqua is definitely an author to watch.
Review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub.blogspot.com/2011/09/lexys-review-midnight-dance-by-lila.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FhyTjf+%28Reading+Between+the+Wines+Book+Club%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Desperation can make people do things that they would normally turn away from immediately. From the beginning Sabine shows her fiery determined side, even when faced with giving up her virginity to keep up a ruse to save her family. Jules is in his own state of desperation yet he still becomes ensnared in the arms of a silvery blond his conscience is telling him to stay away from.
No time is wasted in bringing Sabine and her prince together and as soon as they lay eyes on each other the sparks start to fly. Jules uses all of his skill as a lover on Sabine, so much that you will be melting right along with her. Sensuously written, Midnight Dance brings plenty of toe curling scenes that only add to the perfection of the story as a whole.
The whole story line is wonderfully written. You will be able to pick up the Cinderella tale hidden within but DiPasqua adds so much more you will quickly agree this is the best version of this classic fairy tale you have ever read. DiPasqua is definitely an author to watch.
Review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub.blogspot.com/2011/09/lexys-review-midnight-dance-by-lila.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FhyTjf+%28Reading+Between+the+Wines+Book+Club%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
mountie9's review against another edition
4.0
The Good Stuff
* Extremely steamy
* Devilish rakes -- love me them bad boys
* Exciting fast paced storyline
* The perfect book for a hot summer night or for lounging on the beach - not to mention could warm up a cold Canadian winters night too
* Will definitely be checking out more books by Lila
* Historical romance - which I am a sucker for -- as long as there isn't too much mushy love story -- think I am too practical for the mush
* Was impressed with the character development of Jules
* Did I mention charming sexy rakes and lots of steamy scenes - made me blush
* Some fun scenes that will make you smile
* Pure escapist fun with hot sexy bad boys - whats not to like
The Not so Good Stuff
* Yeah the Cinderella connection is extremely slim and really couldn't see the point of putting it in - just didn't ring true for me
* Some of the terms used in the naughty bits seemed too base for a historical romance - but hey I'm used to Bertrice Smalls descriptions so just a personal preference thing
* Um -- unbelievable deflowering of the virgin -- just saying the first time is usually a little more painful -- than again based on personal experience -- damn wish my 1st was like that!
Favorite Quotes/Passages
"Don't let it swell your arrogant head. I was young. And I erred in the name. I shouldn't have called you "Dark Prince" "The Prince of Darkness" suits you better."
"The witch beamed. "You're definitely my least-despised Aristo!"
Pages 251 - 255 - Can't type them out would have to put an NC 17 rating on this blog if I did - but all I can say is -umm - yes please especially if its with Daniel Craig
Who should/shouldn't read
* Not for the prudish
* Fans of Bertrice Small will enjoy
* Perfect for historical romance lovers
4 Dewey's
I received this from Penguin in exchange for an honest review -- hubby says Thanks LOL!
* Extremely steamy
* Devilish rakes -- love me them bad boys
* Exciting fast paced storyline
* The perfect book for a hot summer night or for lounging on the beach - not to mention could warm up a cold Canadian winters night too
* Will definitely be checking out more books by Lila
* Historical romance - which I am a sucker for -- as long as there isn't too much mushy love story -- think I am too practical for the mush
* Was impressed with the character development of Jules
* Did I mention charming sexy rakes and lots of steamy scenes - made me blush
* Some fun scenes that will make you smile
* Pure escapist fun with hot sexy bad boys - whats not to like
The Not so Good Stuff
* Yeah the Cinderella connection is extremely slim and really couldn't see the point of putting it in - just didn't ring true for me
* Some of the terms used in the naughty bits seemed too base for a historical romance - but hey I'm used to Bertrice Smalls descriptions so just a personal preference thing
* Um -- unbelievable deflowering of the virgin -- just saying the first time is usually a little more painful -- than again based on personal experience -- damn wish my 1st was like that!
Favorite Quotes/Passages
"Don't let it swell your arrogant head. I was young. And I erred in the name. I shouldn't have called you "Dark Prince" "The Prince of Darkness" suits you better."
"The witch beamed. "You're definitely my least-despised Aristo!"
Pages 251 - 255 - Can't type them out would have to put an NC 17 rating on this blog if I did - but all I can say is -umm - yes please especially if its with Daniel Craig
Who should/shouldn't read
* Not for the prudish
* Fans of Bertrice Small will enjoy
* Perfect for historical romance lovers
4 Dewey's
I received this from Penguin in exchange for an honest review -- hubby says Thanks LOL!
critterbee's review against another edition
2.0
This book is really a throwback to the historical angsty romances full of misunderstanding, mistrust and overpowering attraction.
This was not as much of a Cinderella story as I thought it would be, but then again to be fair, the blurb says "inspired by Cinderella," not "a re-telling of Cinderella.."
I did not find the characters particularly likable.
**eARC netgalley**
This was not as much of a Cinderella story as I thought it would be, but then again to be fair, the blurb says "inspired by Cinderella," not "a re-telling of Cinderella.."
I did not find the characters particularly likable.
**eARC netgalley**
rachelking's review against another edition
4.0
I love a good fairy tale re-telling, especially when it is retold specifically for adults, as this book is. Right from the beginning, the romance and chemistry between Sabine and Jules is steamy and passionate, and I had a hard time putting the book down at all. The Cinderella references are vague and somewhat after-the-fact. The glass slipper scene takes place at the beginning of the book when Sabine is young, and the stepmother and two stepdaughters look to Sabine as the head of the household, instead of placing her in the role of a servant. This book seems to take the original tale and turn it upside down, with Sabine forging her own destiny - with or without Prince Charming - and refusing to bend to misfortune.
Sabine's character is both headstrong and naive. A large part of her successes in the plot seem to be born out of pure luck, as she lacks any real skill at either deception or thievery. Jules strong attraction to her gives her the freedom to get as far as she does in her plans, even as she falls for him in return.
While the romance and eroticism takes center stage in the novel, there is a secondary element to the book that comes in subtly as Jules takes a more permanent role in Sabine's life. Jules is intent on a restoration of his honor and wealth, and the discover the truth about his father's accusations. Neither Jules nor Sabine suspect the guilty party until Sabine's life is in danger. Suspense and unpredictability pull me right to the end pages, and just enough is left hanging to lead into a sequel. I look forward to discovering what happens next!
Sabine's character is both headstrong and naive. A large part of her successes in the plot seem to be born out of pure luck, as she lacks any real skill at either deception or thievery. Jules strong attraction to her gives her the freedom to get as far as she does in her plans, even as she falls for him in return.
While the romance and eroticism takes center stage in the novel, there is a secondary element to the book that comes in subtly as Jules takes a more permanent role in Sabine's life. Jules is intent on a restoration of his honor and wealth, and the discover the truth about his father's accusations. Neither Jules nor Sabine suspect the guilty party until Sabine's life is in danger. Suspense and unpredictability pull me right to the end pages, and just enough is left hanging to lead into a sequel. I look forward to discovering what happens next!
literallymarian's review
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
ummm read this book on an all-nighter back from SEA, I was delirious and running on no sleep but I really enjoyed it, literally finished it in one sitting. for what it is it was a fun time
rjordan19's review against another edition
4.0
I wasn't sure if this book was erotica when I got it. I'm actually not even sure of the definition of a regular HR versus erotica haha but I wouldn't consider it erotica. I would think with that, sex is the point of the story. And while there is lots and lots of very detailed scenes in this book, there is a plot that it follows.
The sex is very heavy in the beginning of the book. First scene is before 15%, and I think there's 2-3 more very, very long wink wink scenes by 40%. After the halfway mark the plot really picks up and the relationship building starts a bit more. There's also some action and a mystery going on. So if you tend to skip over books that are sex heavy, or prefer clean versions, this book probably isn't for you. And while I enjoyed it, there was soooo much sex, and so early before there were any feels or relationship building, for me it was 4 stars. Although I will say I was pleasantly surprised by the story. I would definitely try her again (And good thing, because I bought like 6 of her novellas hahaha)
This story is a loose take on the fairy tale Cinderella. Sabine, while not noble, has been born into wealth and has an amazing life with her family. Her father owns a theater and she grows up performing/practicing behind the scenes with her twin sister, watching the aristocracy, and ever impatiently awaiting her debut into society so she can gain a titled husband. Jules de Moutier in particular.
However, this story takes place in the 1600's in France, and tomorrow is not guaranteed. The book jumps ahead and you are brought into Sabine's world utterly changed. People have fought back against the king and unrest is still felt within the nation. Sabine's family has lost the theater, their wealth, her father is dead and everyone says her twin sister is as well. She is alone in attempting to care for the remnants of her family and tries a daring plan to bring them enough silver to pay off their staggering debts to the crown and live a life free of fear of arrest.
Jules has also had everything taken from him. In very similar straits as Sabine, he is attempting to gain everything he is entitled to as well as seeking revenge against those who have wronged him and his father's memory.
I really liked both Jules and Sabine. I thought Jules was a great hero. He was very caring and sweet with Sabine and my heart rather broke for him towards the middle of the story. Yet he is also hard and commanding and take charge. Both characters I thought were just well rounded and enjoyable, I felt like I was really getting to know them and there was depth. I guess I had lower expectations for that going into the story.
I don't really LOVE mysteries, but I didn't mind this one. I was really looking forward to some plot movement after all the sex in the beginning haha. So I thought it was a great story, but ideally I would still prefer more feels and I definitely prefer the waiting and wanting before the sex happens.
I loved that it took place in the 1600s and in France. It just felt different than all the 1800s London I've been reading and it was a nice change.
The sex is very heavy in the beginning of the book. First scene is before 15%, and I think there's 2-3 more very, very long wink wink scenes by 40%. After the halfway mark the plot really picks up and the relationship building starts a bit more. There's also some action and a mystery going on. So if you tend to skip over books that are sex heavy, or prefer clean versions, this book probably isn't for you. And while I enjoyed it, there was soooo much sex, and so early before there were any feels or relationship building, for me it was 4 stars. Although I will say I was pleasantly surprised by the story. I would definitely try her again (And good thing, because I bought like 6 of her novellas hahaha)
This story is a loose take on the fairy tale Cinderella. Sabine, while not noble, has been born into wealth and has an amazing life with her family. Her father owns a theater and she grows up performing/practicing behind the scenes with her twin sister, watching the aristocracy, and ever impatiently awaiting her debut into society so she can gain a titled husband. Jules de Moutier in particular.
However, this story takes place in the 1600's in France, and tomorrow is not guaranteed. The book jumps ahead and you are brought into Sabine's world utterly changed. People have fought back against the king and unrest is still felt within the nation. Sabine's family has lost the theater, their wealth, her father is dead and everyone says her twin sister is as well. She is alone in attempting to care for the remnants of her family and tries a daring plan to bring them enough silver to pay off their staggering debts to the crown and live a life free of fear of arrest.
Jules has also had everything taken from him. In very similar straits as Sabine, he is attempting to gain everything he is entitled to as well as seeking revenge against those who have wronged him and his father's memory.
I really liked both Jules and Sabine. I thought Jules was a great hero. He was very caring and sweet with Sabine and my heart rather broke for him towards the middle of the story. Yet he is also hard and commanding and take charge. Both characters I thought were just well rounded and enjoyable, I felt like I was really getting to know them and there was depth. I guess I had lower expectations for that going into the story.
I don't really LOVE mysteries, but I didn't mind this one. I was really looking forward to some plot movement after all the sex in the beginning haha. So I thought it was a great story, but ideally I would still prefer more feels and I definitely prefer the waiting and wanting before the sex happens.
I loved that it took place in the 1600s and in France. It just felt different than all the 1800s London I've been reading and it was a nice change.
affectionateemu's review
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5