It’s always difficult to judge a book that’s been praised and hyped – and this one was the darling of all the romance lists when it first came out. I had to put it aside and wait a little while, so I could try to read it more objectively.
The Spymaster’s Lady by Joanna Bourne
(2008, Regency Historical) 12/29/08
Grade: 4
Annique Villiers has spent her life as a spy for the French, and she’s known everyone in the Game as the expert Fox Cub. But when she is captured by the English spymaster Robert Grey, she has finally met her match – and perhaps love as well.
I was impressed from the beginning of the book by the character of Annique. In just a few pages, the author had created a character who was unique and specific – a character that came to life. And the background of spying during the Napoleonic wars was fascinating, and well depicted. However, there were some major flaws as well. First, the plot depends on Annique doing something very stupid and out of character, which frustrated me and pulled me out of the story. And secondly, I never really felt an emotional connection between Grey and Annique. They respected each other, admired each other’s skills – but love? It wasn’t developed at all. So, it was an interesting book, with a fascinating and unique heroine, but not really a successful romance.
After reading this book, I can see why so many people liked it – and why others hated it. I’m somewhere in between. I admire its originality, but I ended up feeling a little disappointed as well.
Karen Wheless
Latest posts by Karen Wheless (see all)
- Love Irresistibly by Julie James - June 18, 2013
- Vacation Reading - June 17, 2013
- The Way Home by Megan Chance - June 1, 2013