Victorian Days

Today’s post is about Victorian romances set during the years of Queen Victoria's reign. The Victorian era (1837-1901) was a very interesting period when art and literature, social, political and religious movements flourished. It was also a time of prudishness and repression. Imagine a world of social etiquette focused on modesty, polite introductions and avoiding public displays of emotions. Now place within these boundaries strong, attractive and sensual women and men who resist such restrictions and the beginnings for a great romance novel are born.

Passion Wears Pearls by Renee Bernard

“Bernard creates a classic love story that is tenderly written and beautifully crafted. The well-painted backdrop of class distinctions, her strong characters and the tenderness of the romance will touch readers on many levels”.  Romantic Times

Firelight by Kristen Callihan

“Beauty and the Beast meets Phantom of the Opera (with hints of Carrie and an abundance of Egyptian mythology) in this gripping, intoxicating story, simmering with incendiary sensuality and featuring a heroine who risks all to save the man she loves. An exceptional debut and the first of what promises to be a compelling series.” Library Journal 

The Bride Wore Pearls by Liz Carlyle

“Readers introduced to the secret St. James Society and Lady Anisha Stafford in Carlyle’s previous novels have eagerly awaited this story. Carlyle allows her well-drawn characters and the exploration of their motivation to drive the plot more than the suspense aspects of the storyline, slowing the pace. Readers may find the rush to the dénouement a surprising twist, unlike her usual style, yet still more than satisfying”. Romantic Times 

Waking Up with the Duke by Lorraine Heath

“Heath seizes on unusual plot twists and crafts an emotional and compelling story, but then, this multitalented author always creates the unusual, to her fans’ delight. The power of her writing satisfies their cravings for strong, sexually charged romances that lift the heart and leave them with a deep sigh. This is no different.” Romantic Times 

Ravishing the Heiress by Sherry Thomas

“Thomas deftly manipulates simmering sexual chemistry into a deliciously sensual love story, and her exquisitely nuanced characters, impeccably crafted historical setting, and elegant, sharply witty writing work brilliantly together to create an emotionally compelling spin on the classic marriage-of-convenience plot”. Booklist