Review: Different  ***3 1/2 Stars***
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 04 29, 2014
This really short story has a most unusual plot.  I enjoyed it very much, but felt it could have been a bit longer.  It's quite well written but, as is so often the case with short stories, the character development is sadly lacking.  This is especially true of Nicholas, the hero.The story is about a young woman, Burgundy Bedford, whose mother defied the Queen and eloped with her commoner lover.  Now, years later, Burgundy is faced with the same dilemma.  Should she marry the man the Queen has chosen for her, or follow her heart?Her ladies maid, Nan, gives her a book and letter from her mother, which Nan has had in her safekeeping for years.  The book, a legacy that has been passed down from mother to daughter for generations, foretells that only disaster can result when one acts dishonorably.  After reading her mother's letter and the book, Burgundy makes her decision.  She can only hope that she has made the right one.This book is entertaining, hence the 3 1/2 star review.  Nonetheless, I was quite disappointed when I finished it, because it could have been so much better!!!  It's so frustrating when a book does not live up to its potential.  The period before the wedding is pretty well developed.  I got a good feel for Burgundy and her dilemma...and you get to see the fractious relationship between herself and Nicholas.Unfortunately, the rest of the story is brushed over, or more specifically the "falling in love" aspect of the story.  Considering that this is supposed to be romance novella, rushing over the "romance" can only be a bad thing.  **MILD SPOILER** After Nicholas and Burgundy wed and remove to his estate, he goes off to war.  When he returns wounded, Burgundy nurses him back to health.  It is during the interval of his recuperation that the two fall in love, but we don't get to see that span of time in any detail.  All we are told is that Nicholas gradually regained his strength due to the care received from his wife.  Presumably the two spend a lot of time together during this period and fall in love...please note I said "presumably."  **END OF SPOILER**Despite this deficiency, I enjoyed the book.  It's not one that would come to mind when recommending a book to a friend, but if asked, I would say it is a worthwhile read.  If you're in the mood for a quick, easy, uncomplicated read, and you like historical novels set during the Elizabethan period, this is not a bad option, especially when you consider that it's free!  Just don't go expecting an epic tale.  LOLFYI, this is not a clean romance.  There is a love scene, which IMO is only mildly described.  Happy reading!