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jesuu__'s review against another edition
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Content Warnings
Minor: Colonisation
psychotherabee's review against another edition
4.0
(This review can also be found here: https://beautifulilies.wordpress.com/2017/08/23/the-secret-of-the-india-orchid-by-nancy-campbell-allen/.)
A copy of this novel was given in exchange for an honest review.
Somehow the fact that this novel is part romance completely missed me when I requested an ARC. Had I known it was a romance novel, I would have skipped it, because I’m human and we tend to stick with what we know. But I’m glad I picked it up because I ended up thoroughly enjoying it!
It’s so difficult writing characters who are complex and likeable, but, for me, the author nailed it perfectly. A book is always easier to read when you like the characters you’re supposed to.
In terms of the plot, I enjoyed reading about the history between Sophia and Anthony, their funny encounters across the voyage to India, and about the mystery that was to unravel – a missing document containing information that could put all of their lives at risk.
The fact that this novel is set in India also sets it apart from other novels of this genre. It was interesting reading Sophia’s take on being in a completely new country. I managed to devour this book in mere hours and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a light read with a very satisfying ending.
A copy of this novel was given in exchange for an honest review.
Somehow the fact that this novel is part romance completely missed me when I requested an ARC. Had I known it was a romance novel, I would have skipped it, because I’m human and we tend to stick with what we know. But I’m glad I picked it up because I ended up thoroughly enjoying it!
It’s so difficult writing characters who are complex and likeable, but, for me, the author nailed it perfectly. A book is always easier to read when you like the characters you’re supposed to.
In terms of the plot, I enjoyed reading about the history between Sophia and Anthony, their funny encounters across the voyage to India, and about the mystery that was to unravel – a missing document containing information that could put all of their lives at risk.
The fact that this novel is set in India also sets it apart from other novels of this genre. It was interesting reading Sophia’s take on being in a completely new country. I managed to devour this book in mere hours and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a light read with a very satisfying ending.
sallyavena's review against another edition
3.0
A little Jane Austenish...a little Scarlet Pimpernel all thrown together for a fun clean mind candy type of read with a little romance and a little mystery as well.
soniapage's review against another edition
2.0
Not bad but seemed like the same old story and quite predictable. Set in India but I never got the feel of India. Nice to find a book that contains a romance but not trashy.
beastreader's review against another edition
3.0
This is a charming, good read. I loved the location. It added to the story. Although, to be honest, Anthony was not that good of a spy. He kind of had his cover blown with Sophia. Yet, she may not have truly known he was a spy but still, he had help from others. This is why he was able to get the job done.
Regarding the romance. It was mild. As Anthony was supposed to stay in character, his advances and displays of affection towards Sophia were kept to a minimum. While, Anthony was good, it was Sophia that had my vote. She was not like the rest of the women. She went against the flow. For example, she showed up at a costume party wearing men's clothing. In addition, when she received threats, she did not sit down and let others protect her. In fact, this made her more motivated to help solve the case. The author captivated me with this story and the characters. Now that the "secret" is out, I plan to check out other books from this author.
Regarding the romance. It was mild. As Anthony was supposed to stay in character, his advances and displays of affection towards Sophia were kept to a minimum. While, Anthony was good, it was Sophia that had my vote. She was not like the rest of the women. She went against the flow. For example, she showed up at a costume party wearing men's clothing. In addition, when she received threats, she did not sit down and let others protect her. In fact, this made her more motivated to help solve the case. The author captivated me with this story and the characters. Now that the "secret" is out, I plan to check out other books from this author.
emgrace4's review
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
j_olip's review against another edition
2.0
Advanced Reader Copy received at BookCon (June 2017).
I always want romance fiction to be more, to move beyond its stereotypes and prove that something women enjoy can be better then silly fluff. This wasn't it.
I always want romance fiction to be more, to move beyond its stereotypes and prove that something women enjoy can be better then silly fluff. This wasn't it.
melissasbookshelf's review against another edition
4.0
Intrigue, romance, a smart hero and heroine, what's not to love?! Sophia is in love with her brother's best friend. He seemed to be in love with her too until he abruptly leaves England without any explanation except for a letter that puts her squarely in the "good friend" category. After two years, she has tried to forget him, but decides to put the past behind her and leave for India to find romance and a change of scene. Anthony is in love with Sophia, but a secret mission that would put her and her family in danger has kept him from telling her the truth. After two years, he has finally tracked the information he needs to India. Can he resolve the mystery and win Sophia back in time?
I loved the audiobook version of this. The narrator did an awesome job bringing each character to life. The customs and exotic location of this book all created an enjoyable read that was hard to put down. It was also a clean read that I would definitely recommend for my teenager.
I loved the audiobook version of this. The narrator did an awesome job bringing each character to life. The customs and exotic location of this book all created an enjoyable read that was hard to put down. It was also a clean read that I would definitely recommend for my teenager.
channywax's review against another edition
Such a sweet story. I'll read anything Nancy writes!
themaritimereader14's review against another edition
4.0
This was a fun book to read - I alternated between the audio and the ebook and enjoyed both. I really liked the characters but I was sad not to have some background of the time when Anthony and Sophia met - I love those early "meet cute"/courtship days in historical romances. The actual plot moved along quickly and all of the side characters were interesting. I enjoyed the setting and, of course, there were some wonderful swoon-worthy moments, including the ending :)