Reviews

The Secret Pearl by Mary Balogh

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writer595's review

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emotional sad medium-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? No

4.0

sunmoonstars9's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful tense medium-paced

Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

This book made me weep. [a:Mary Balogh|9759|Mary Balogh|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1267712180p2/9759.jpg] has many a book that makes me weep. The start to the book is not at all what one expects in a romance. It is too real and raw and sordid, and I detested Adam for doing what he did. But he makes it up throughout the novel in so many ways. He is someone with so much of a conscious. And I slowly grew to adore the man.

Both Fleur and Adam have so much against them. Their past and present is full of perils. And what I love is how they overcome that and have such a lasting, beautiful love.

Adam has had a rough deal in life. He is scarred, in a loveless marriage, and stuck with a woman who hates him and loves another. And yet, he is the noble sort who tries to get through life. He feels responsible for what happens to Fleur ( because of what he did) and tries to give her a better place in life. And makes her the governess of her daughter. And as much as both try not to, they are drawn to the other. They are the balms to each other's soul.

Fleur is running away from an impossible situation. One which keeps finding her and tormenting her. She believes in a lie which destroyed her life. And I adore how she goes back to find out the truth. How Adam supports her. And how she loves him. And how she frees herself for a burden.

There is so much angst throughout the novel. And so many backstories. And they all have so much sadness and are yet so real.

This is one book I would read again and again.

Takeaway : Love is the best balm to a damaged soul.

myrsinik's review

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lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

bettybumpkins's review

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emotional mysterious

3.5

Great story with well developed side characters. I rather felt for the duchess.

Only complaint would be the ending. I didn't like how her "secret" was wrapped up.

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