Review: I cannot recommend this series enough
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 15, 2014
Review by Karen, posted at ScuttlebuttReviews (accompanied by an interview with the author)I have to say that I approached this with trepidation. The first two installments of this trilogy are in my top ten reads of the last few years, and I wondered if the conclusion of David and Murdo’s story would be satisfying. Oh me of little faith. Enlightened is a fantastic read.The storylines of both previous books are pulled together to form a coherent, loving and totally gratifying ending. If you’re reading this and haven’t read the first two books – then read them now! If you have read Enlightened then you will know how good it is, the blurb and all the other 5 star reviews will tell you enough of the plot. Suffice it to say that via the impending death of David’s mentor, Chalmers; promises made to him plus the appearance of Murdo’s father make the couple question their relationship- how and even if it will continue.I am sure that there was a lot of research that went into ensuring that the Regency feel of this novel was accurate, the language the characters use, the detailing of clothing, food and all the little nuances reinforce it. There are definitive elements in some of the formality of the writing that remind me of Georgette Heyer.The story line of the continuing dramatic situation of Elizabeth (Chalmers absconded daughter) provides tension and drama, and Chambers’ writing is pitch perfect, there isn’t a wasted line or an overblown cliché in sight, every word is used thoughtfully and with effect.While this could be enough for most authors, the development of the characters of David and Murdo – individually and as a couple, is told so well. I was once told that only the strong know when to bend, but it is also true that the strong know when to stand firm. David – who started so sure and righteous in his beliefs bends, and Murdo, the man of pleasure and compromise finds his moral core; and this is the element of the book that really elevated it for me.I cannot recommend this series enough, so please if you haven’t already, please read it.