Title: The Blighted Troth
Author: Mirella Sichirollo Patzer
Genre: Fiction (Historical / Canadian / 18th century)
Publisher/Publication Date: History and Women (2/8/2011)
Source: The author
Rating: Loved - definitely a favorite of 2011.
Did I finish?: YES - I couldn't put this book down!
One-sentence summary: Two lovers in 18th century New France are cruelly separated by the evil machinations of a rich lord and their struggle to be together is confounded by disease, political upheaval, evil priests and a mysterious nun.
Reading Challenges: E-books, Historical Fiction
Do I like the cover?: I do -- it reminds me of a small cameo the hero might carry around of his true love.
I'm reminded of...: Ann Radcliffe,Eliza Haywood, Priscilla Royal
First line: Fast approaching hooves rumbled against the damp earth of the long, tree-lined dirt road.
Did... I love the mix of historical accuracy (small pox outbreak!) and Gothic drama (mysterious nun!)?: YES. Honestly, I was grinning the whole time I was reading because this was like popcorn awesome.
Did... I like the unexpected spiciness that showed up now and then?: YES. It's not a lot, but there's some naughtiness that makes this story feel a little dangerous in the best way!
Did... I kind of crush on the reformed ruffian?: YES. Just wait, you'll see -- he's so dreamy!
Buy, Borrow, or Avoid?: Totally buy - the e-book is inexpensive ($3.99US) and this is a delightful read, perfect for a summer weekend or a few nights when you want to escape!
Why did I get this book?: I'm a reader of Patzer's blog and love her posts so when she asked me to review the book, I eagerly said yes. I knew I was in for a treat and this didn't disappoint!
Review: This deliciously readable historical has the feel of a great Gothic: an unrepentant villain, a virginal heroine, nefarious doings with nuns and priests, daring escapes, and the promise of true love. Set in 1702 in the Saint Lawrence River-area of New France, it follows the beautiful Emilie and her betrothed, Robert the miller, whose plan to marry is derailed when the evil seigneur, Richard Tonnacour, decides he wants Emilie for himself. The story unfolds at a breakneck pace, full of intrigue and adventure, and I was literally delighted with every turn of the page.
The novel felt a bit like a book from the 18th century: the story had a kind of unapologetic romantic melodrama not often found in modern novels and I loved it. I literally raced through this book, eager for the next turn of the story, and I loved the characters and plot twists. The writing is clear and straightforward, the characters distinct and vibrant. I anticipated some of the story's developments which actually heightened my anticipation because I was so looking forward to seeing how Patzer would tie up everything.
This is a perfect escapist historical novel, easy to dip in and out of or read in a few long sittings. I can't rave enough about it (ask my coworkers!) and I'm now an eager Patzer fan (which is good -- you'll see in the forthcoming Q&A that she has two more historical novels in the works!).
*** *** ***
Giveaway! The author has generously offered an amazing giveaway for my readers: one signed paperback copy of The Blighted Troth and three e-book copies (in the format of your choice)! All four prizes are available for US and international readers! To enter, please leave a comment indicating which version you'd like (paperback, e-book, or either) and an email address. Ends 6/24, open to US and international readers. For another entry, be sure to check out my Q&A with the author on June 8th.
Author: Mirella Sichirollo Patzer
Genre: Fiction (Historical / Canadian / 18th century)
Publisher/Publication Date: History and Women (2/8/2011)
Source: The author
Rating: Loved - definitely a favorite of 2011.
Did I finish?: YES - I couldn't put this book down!
One-sentence summary: Two lovers in 18th century New France are cruelly separated by the evil machinations of a rich lord and their struggle to be together is confounded by disease, political upheaval, evil priests and a mysterious nun.
Reading Challenges: E-books, Historical Fiction
Do I like the cover?: I do -- it reminds me of a small cameo the hero might carry around of his true love.
I'm reminded of...: Ann Radcliffe,Eliza Haywood, Priscilla Royal
First line: Fast approaching hooves rumbled against the damp earth of the long, tree-lined dirt road.
Did... I love the mix of historical accuracy (small pox outbreak!) and Gothic drama (mysterious nun!)?: YES. Honestly, I was grinning the whole time I was reading because this was like popcorn awesome.
Did... I like the unexpected spiciness that showed up now and then?: YES. It's not a lot, but there's some naughtiness that makes this story feel a little dangerous in the best way!
Did... I kind of crush on the reformed ruffian?: YES. Just wait, you'll see -- he's so dreamy!
Buy, Borrow, or Avoid?: Totally buy - the e-book is inexpensive ($3.99US) and this is a delightful read, perfect for a summer weekend or a few nights when you want to escape!
Why did I get this book?: I'm a reader of Patzer's blog and love her posts so when she asked me to review the book, I eagerly said yes. I knew I was in for a treat and this didn't disappoint!
Review: This deliciously readable historical has the feel of a great Gothic: an unrepentant villain, a virginal heroine, nefarious doings with nuns and priests, daring escapes, and the promise of true love. Set in 1702 in the Saint Lawrence River-area of New France, it follows the beautiful Emilie and her betrothed, Robert the miller, whose plan to marry is derailed when the evil seigneur, Richard Tonnacour, decides he wants Emilie for himself. The story unfolds at a breakneck pace, full of intrigue and adventure, and I was literally delighted with every turn of the page.
The novel felt a bit like a book from the 18th century: the story had a kind of unapologetic romantic melodrama not often found in modern novels and I loved it. I literally raced through this book, eager for the next turn of the story, and I loved the characters and plot twists. The writing is clear and straightforward, the characters distinct and vibrant. I anticipated some of the story's developments which actually heightened my anticipation because I was so looking forward to seeing how Patzer would tie up everything.
This is a perfect escapist historical novel, easy to dip in and out of or read in a few long sittings. I can't rave enough about it (ask my coworkers!) and I'm now an eager Patzer fan (which is good -- you'll see in the forthcoming Q&A that she has two more historical novels in the works!).
*** *** ***
Giveaway! The author has generously offered an amazing giveaway for my readers: one signed paperback copy of The Blighted Troth and three e-book copies (in the format of your choice)! All four prizes are available for US and international readers! To enter, please leave a comment indicating which version you'd like (paperback, e-book, or either) and an email address. Ends 6/24, open to US and international readers. For another entry, be sure to check out my Q&A with the author on June 8th.
This sounds really good and what an amazing giveaway! Thanks!! I'm in for either paperback or e book but I do prefer paperback.
ReplyDeleteMargaret
singitm@hotmail.com
I've been eying this book for a while! I'd love to win a copy. Either would be awesome, but I prefer paperback! Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteAllisonmharper@hotmail.com
Sign me up for this one! It looks really good. Either paperback or ebook is fine with me!
ReplyDeleterunaway84(at)gmail.com
I should not...but I can't say no! Yes I want to enter and see what it's all about, and met that ruffian
ReplyDeleteblodeuedd1 at gmail dot com
I was totally drawn in by your tweet! sounds like a fun read, I would not have known about it otherwise.
ReplyDeleteThis one sounds really interesting. Count me in! I'd take either the paperback or the ebook, but I think I'd actually prefer the ebook. I'm moving cross-country soon & already had to put sooo many books in storage! But I can never pass up a good book. :)
ReplyDeletejmartinez0415 [at] gmail [dot] com
Wow. This book sounds really good. An evil villain, a heroine, count me in! I prefer paperback. Thanks! - Melanie
ReplyDeletemelaniehope66@hotmail.com
Yours is the second positive review I've seen of this novel. The book sounds great!
ReplyDeleteI won't enter the contest since I won your last one, but this book is definitely going on my wish list...and since the e-version is nice and cheap it may not stay on my wish list for long.
"popcorn awesome" might become my new saying! And I've added this one too (drat you). It sounds fabulous, count me in for the giveaway: jeskimo.kimono@gmail.com I'd prefer paperback if I won! But even if I don't, I'll be buying the cheap ebook!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great book. =) I prefer paperback, but I will read either format.
ReplyDeletetiredwkids at live dot com
I would like to enter for the paperback.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
quixoticdreamer(at)hotmail(dot)com
Thanks for the giveaway and review I usually don't read much historical fiction but this sounds quite tempting.
ReplyDeleteCan international readers enter for the paperback? If yes that would be my first choice, if not I would go for the ebook.
eveningreen AT gmail DOT com
Sounds really good would love to win either format.
ReplyDeleteAmandask66 AT gmail DOT com
I'd like to win the paperback version.
ReplyDeleteaikychien at yahoo dot com
Thanks for the giveaway! I'm a new follower because I ♥ historical fiction. Count me in for either format!
ReplyDeleteBornajhawkATaolDOTcom
Oh, I would love to read this! It sounds excellent, and I love a good historical read. Please do enter me in your giveaway for an e-book version. Thanks for the generous giveaway and for the wonderfully thoughtful and enticing review!
ReplyDeleteOops, forgot to leave me email address:
ReplyDeletezibilee(at)figearo(dot)net
I prefer the paperback, but will be getting an iPad, so I could try the ebook version too.
ReplyDeletearcookson at yahoo dotcom
Sounds like a fun read and a lovely giveaway! I'm good for either e or solid!
ReplyDeleteI would love to enter for the paperback copy. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteEvening Green: yes, international folks can enter for the paperback copy as well as the e-book copies!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI would like to enter for the paperback copy. I don't have an e-reader and reading on my PC screen is veru awkard and limiting.
Thanks.
Carol T
buddytho {at} gmail DOT com
Another historical novel! I'm in heaven,
ReplyDeletelag110 at mchsi dot com
I love books that take on a place that I haven't read about before. I had heard mention of this book but this is the first review I have seen of it. I love the sound of the breakneck pace and gothic drama!
ReplyDeletePlease enter me fro the paperback.
dolleygurl[at]hotmail[dot]com
would enjoy reading this novel...thanks for the chance :)
ReplyDeletekarenk
kmkuka at yahoo dot com
Great review Audra!
ReplyDeleteI love historical fiction and things with a Gothic feel are always interesting to me :)
No need to enter me in your giveaway, tho; my TBR pile is too big at the moment!
Sounds like a fantastic historical fiction book! Thanks for reviewing it! I love romance and melodrama, LOL :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks for giveaway!!! I prefere paparback version.
ReplyDeletekapranova.sofija@gmail.com
The book sounds awesome and I just got a new Kindle so I would love hte e-reader copy! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteBreanna -- Please include your email address as your blogger profile is private! Otherwise, I can't contact you if you win!
ReplyDeleteYour review intrigues me and I do love historical books. I would like either the paperback or the ebook. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeletelag110 at mchsi dot com
I prefer either or :)
ReplyDeleteMorganlafey86(at)aol(dot)com
I'm in. Your review says this is a good read. My first preference is paperback, ebook after.
ReplyDeletejmwordsmith at gmail dot com
Thanks!
I'd love to take the paperback version on summer vacation. Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeletenanze55(at)hotmail(dot)com
Awesome giveaway!!
ReplyDeleteI will love paperback but e-book is great too!
ilepachequin(at)hotmail(dot)com