Review: Layers...
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 7, 2014
Victoria Vane has the magic touch when it comes to spicing up historical romances. In Jewel of the East we get two emotionally and physically scarred characters that use their sexuality to heal one another.In previous books in the DeVere series I became curious about Salime. She was a bit of an enigma; sensual,loyal, and trusting. I can't imagine very many 'working ladies' back then were as dedicated to their work as Salime. In Jewel of the East my ideal of Salime was shattered a bit. I slowly realized that all is not what it seems. She's not just a good-time girl that *entirely* enjoys what she's doingWhile Simon has his own demons, stemming from being a POW, he brings to light Salime's tragic life which made me understand her much better.There are a few layers to this book. If you're looking for an erotic romance to give you a little buzz it will do. But if you read deeper there is a darker story that should have been more of a struggle to overcome. With another 100 pages, or so, Jewel of the East could have been so much more. I still loved reading it and recommend it, but I wouldn't be opposed if I Ms. Vane were to lengthen it at some point :)