The Countess Confessions
Author: Jillian Hunter
Reviewer: Ang
Rating: A-
What I’m Talking About:
Jillian Hunter is the queen of the O’Henry Twist. As I was reading The Countess Confessions and nearing the last 50 to 100 pages, all I kept thinking is “Wow, she never REALLY dealt with the conflict. She let the love story supersede the conflict.” Then BOOM right between the eyes! She threw a twist at me that a) I didn’t see coming, something very few authors are capable of doing, and b) wrapped up the entire conflict in one short chapter. Well done Ms. Hunter!!!
Overall, I enjoyed my trip through England with Emily and Damien. Their chemistry is clear right from the start. His desire to protect her is admirable, and her trust of him is sweet and innocent without being saccharine. I found the story wasn’t so far fetched that it wasn’t believable, despite obvious liberties with timelines, passion, and probably family acceptance that were taken. The dialogue was well written and the numerous lovemaking scenes didn’t distract from the overall story line, something I tend to be a real stickler for. The lovemaking scenes were well written without going into raunchy, another thing I am always grateful for. I want the couples I read to understand and appreciate sex for the emotional connection and intimacy it brings, not just the physical act, and Ms. Hunter does this well.
The themes throughout the story of love, forgiveness and redemption were handled well without getting preachy. And although I would have loved it if Damien had actually said the phrase “I love you” out loud to Emily, his internal dialogue and actions speak clearly that this is the case. I do wish, however, that we could have seen a stronger resolution between Iris and Winthrop. Although it is clear they achieve their happily-ever-after, I would have appreciated attending a wedding that I’ve no doubt Emily and Damien would have made sure was simple, beautiful and befitting of those they love and trust so much.
My only real issue with this book are a few editing issues that hopefully will be fixed before the book is released. Namely the time line of the first party. Sometimes it is referred to as last night and sometimes it is referred to as two nights ago, which is the correct timeline. This oversight bugged me the beginning of the book but the pattern didn’t continue throughout the rest of the novel, and once I reminded myself I had an uncorrected proof, it was easy to give both Ms. Hunter and her editors the benefit of the doubt and hope this small oversight will be fixed before publication.
All in all, The Countess Confessions was a witty and sexy read filled entertaining characters, strong love interests, and beautiful scenery. It was a delightful escape for the afternoon. If you are looking for an escape, a good spy story and a better love story filled with steamy bedroom scenes then pick up The Countess Confessions. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
Rating: A- Enjoyed A Lot
About the Book:
All Emily Selwick wanted was to convince the man she had adored for years that she was the woman he ought to marry. She never expected that her ill-fated deception at a party would uncover a scheme against the Crown and ensnare her in the sensual trap of an enigmatic stranger.
Damien Boscastle, the Earl of Shalcross, knows he must marry Emily to defend her honor and keep his mission secret. But, by saving her reputation, he will draw her into his arms as well as a dangerous intrigue.
After a whirlwind courtship that leaves her breathless, Emily finds herself wed to a husband who vows not only to protect her from his menacing world—but to train his wife in the pleasures of passion.
Release Date: February 4, 2014
Publisher: Signet
Series: Boscastle #14
ISBN: #978-0451415332
Genre: Historical Romance
Format(s): Paperback (352 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
Purchase Info:
The Countess Confessions (Boscastle #14)
I am so lazy, I have had a book by her on my shelf for yeeeears