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mayann's review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
historical_drama_queen's review
emotional
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
ptaradactyl's review
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
3.0
There was a lot I liked about the book, especially the things that subverted romance tropes I hate. I loved that they had lousy sex the first time and talked to each other until they figured out what worked for them. I appreciated that Minnie lectured Robert about making decisions without her. I loved that they didn’t expect to have a relationship without conflict.
But I’m not sure either lead really did it for me. Nothing wrong with them- just not my jam.
Also, therapy, people!
But I’m not sure either lead really did it for me. Nothing wrong with them- just not my jam.
Also, therapy, people!
katyanaish's review
5.0
Re-read Sept 2019
It's a good book, very sweet. The only quibble I have is the bit at the end.
What my quibble is with, though, is the fact that after doing this thing to her - literally repeating the most traumatic moment of her life, calling her out in a courtroom like her father did - rather than comfort his wife, instead it becomes all about Robert. Minnie - who has never had anyone care for her, but instead has shouldered this entire horrible life she was dealt - now doesn't even get to take a moment to be upset because of a thing he did. No, instead she has to care for him, because he's upset about doing that to her - as if it is harder on him than it is on her - and needs her to not have her own reaction at all. Had she reacted in any way - cried, been hurt, been angry - he'd have left and she'd have never seen him again. He didn't even TRY to comfort her or make things right. And that is hugely disappointing to me.
I would just like to see Minnie get some goddamn care for once in her life. I would like for her to not have to stuff down her own wants and emotions, in service of someone else. For once.
It's a good book, very sweet. The only quibble I have is the bit at the end.
Spoiler
I hate that Robert decides to repeat what her father did to her in the courtroom, but I understand it ... as does Minnie. But I really hate that he does it without talking to her - she should get to be part of choosing to expose her secrets. For him to take it upon himself to do this horrible thing without asking ... it's shit. And it doesn't make for a good marriage. But it works out because that's literally exactly what Minnie tells him afterwards, so it doesn't hurt anything major.What my quibble is with, though, is the fact that after doing this thing to her - literally repeating the most traumatic moment of her life, calling her out in a courtroom like her father did - rather than comfort his wife, instead it becomes all about Robert. Minnie - who has never had anyone care for her, but instead has shouldered this entire horrible life she was dealt - now doesn't even get to take a moment to be upset because of a thing he did. No, instead she has to care for him, because he's upset about doing that to her - as if it is harder on him than it is on her - and needs her to not have her own reaction at all. Had she reacted in any way - cried, been hurt, been angry - he'd have left and she'd have never seen him again. He didn't even TRY to comfort her or make things right. And that is hugely disappointing to me.
I would just like to see Minnie get some goddamn care for once in her life. I would like for her to not have to stuff down her own wants and emotions, in service of someone else. For once.
mollywetta's review
I enjoyed the time period and setting, as it's not one I've read before (1860s England). Worker's rights form the backdrop of the plot, so it reminded me of North and South. Definitely a fun romance!
nitzanschwarz's review
4.0
Honestly, I am shocked at how much I loved this. I was not prepared to fall head over heels in love with this novel the way I did, but the characters pretty much won me over instantly and the romance between them swept me off my feet accordingly.
First we have Minnie. Here is a woman who is smart, clever and funny, but most refreshing - she isn't a bumbling virgin who knows nothing of anatomy and pleasure like so many historical heroines out there. She's very aware and she isn't going to apologize for this. Furthermore, she is just so brave. I'm not sure I would've been able to face my fears the way she has.
Her other half is Robert. Now, Robert, where do I begin with him? Firstly, he's not a rake or a womanizer, which was just delightful to me. What he is is a smart, funny, loyal and honest man who just wants to help those who have been dubbed "beneath him". Can't think of a better hero.
Now, the relationship between them. There was an instant attraction there, and a kinship that comes from two active minds recognizing someone they can talk to. And from this point, the attraction starts to grow until they can barely hold it in--and then they can't! It's beautiful to behold.
But the absolute best about this couple? (view spoiler)
Around these two are a crew of great side characters. I loved each and everyone of them, but my favorite was hands down Robert's mother. I didn't expect to like her at first, but she grew on me super fast!
Another great point in this novel is the hinting of a lesbian relationship between two characters. So many historical novels ignore this facet of life, that I've come to be positively surprised every time one of them dares to even hint at it.
My only complaint about the novel was how the speech sometimes felt too modern to come across as authentic to the times, but it was such a small thing compared to all the overwhelming positives!
First we have Minnie. Here is a woman who is smart, clever and funny, but most refreshing - she isn't a bumbling virgin who knows nothing of anatomy and pleasure like so many historical heroines out there. She's very aware and she isn't going to apologize for this. Furthermore, she is just so brave. I'm not sure I would've been able to face my fears the way she has.
Her other half is Robert. Now, Robert, where do I begin with him? Firstly, he's not a rake or a womanizer, which was just delightful to me. What he is is a smart, funny, loyal and honest man who just wants to help those who have been dubbed "beneath him". Can't think of a better hero.
Now, the relationship between them. There was an instant attraction there, and a kinship that comes from two active minds recognizing someone they can talk to. And from this point, the attraction starts to grow until they can barely hold it in--and then they can't! It's beautiful to behold.
But the absolute best about this couple? (view spoiler)
Around these two are a crew of great side characters. I loved each and everyone of them, but my favorite was hands down Robert's mother. I didn't expect to like her at first, but she grew on me super fast!
Another great point in this novel is the hinting of a lesbian relationship between two characters. So many historical novels ignore this facet of life, that I've come to be positively surprised every time one of them dares to even hint at it.
My only complaint about the novel was how the speech sometimes felt too modern to come across as authentic to the times, but it was such a small thing compared to all the overwhelming positives!
stavoosh's review
medium-paced
3.25
Well written but I got kind of bored because the stakes were too low or imaginary.
saranies's review
4.0
More interesting and involved story than your average historical romance. I quite enjoyed it.
Found from this article.
http://the-toast.net/2013/09/30/bad-s...
Found from this article.
http://the-toast.net/2013/09/30/bad-s...