Review: Short but sweetly written
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 11 20, 2012
This is a very quick read - approximately 100 pages.  Be sure you are aware of that before downloading.  It was a free book when I downloaded my copy.  You can decide of 100 pages are worth $2.99....I admit I spent a few pages of this novel thoroughly confused.  There is quite a bit of time devoted to telling the reader how bad Lucien is -- he's fought over a dozen duels (and killed several men in the process).  I never really understood what else about him was supposed to be so deviant--but he allegedly is.Anne-Marie is described as a brave woman, mostly because she has tamed and cares for a wounded panther.  I'm guessing that's the only brave thing she's done, however.  Her father has remarried and her new stepmother is very eager to have her married and out of the way.  The stepmother treats her badly.  She wants out.  Lucien provides the means.I would've only given this novel 3 stars, except there were a few moments of dialogue that really were touchingly beautiful.  Here's an example:Anne-Marie is lamenting the loss of her panther, when Lucien says:"Take me instead....If you need something uncivilized to tame, tame me.  If you need a devil to turn into  an angel, I am here.  If you need something, or someone, not quite whole to make well again, use me.  If you need someone to care for and share your secrets, to keep you from the dangers of the dark and the future, then please--please let it be me."<sigh>  That is beautiful and worthy of 4 stars.