Review: A Must Read Historical Romance Serial Novel
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 01 23, 2012
*I received this book for review from author. Since The Rake and a Recluse is a serial series, I have read and reviewed parts 1-3 together. Read the full review at: Book Savvy Babe.com*Review Thoughts on the series:Jenn LeBlanc's photography interspersed throughout the story only enhances the story. Illustrated novels are a very new concept (as far as I know, unique to Jenn LeBlanc), but with both visually stunning photographs and impressive writing Jenn LeBlanc has created a new format for a literary masterpiece.Each installment of this series is uniquely crafted to focus the storyline and engage readers. With the story broken into segments, the reader is able to really learn each of the characters and understand the setting. The reader is transported from the pages of the book into the story.Review for Part One:Freedom is a very appropriate title for this first installment in this serial series. Francine is in an accident and tossed back in time to an unknown place, full of unknown people, and injured to the point where she has lost her voice. Francine is a modern girl, used to American society where women are considered equals and she can go where she pleases when she pleases. To say that Francine is shocked and confused at her new situation is an understatement. After what I consider a reasonable amount of time, Francine comes to grips with her situation and tries to make the best of things. However, her movement is limited. She is living as a "guest" in the home of a grouchy but compelling Duke and due to her curious arrival, she has no proper clothing and is confined to only the private rooms of the house. This confinement, both in her physical movements, her speech, and her social life makes Francine very aware of her lack of Freedom.Jenn LeBlac's re-edit of this portion of The Rake and The Recluse is simply amazing. The story is clear, descriptive and, for all the fantasy of time-travel, even believable. This story draws the reader in from the very start, there is never a dull moment. Francine and the Duke of Roxleigh, Gideon, do not interact very much in this section of the story, but the beginnings of their relationship are full of sparks. There is heat, sensuality, and a compelling bond between the characters that keeps me reading and fully immersed in the story. Once you finish part one of this serial, you will be clamoring for part 2, Found.