Rating: 
Summary: a very slow read
Review: i really enjoyed the last book in this series, explaining Sebastian and Helena's story. but this book i found hard to get into and the character's difficult to relate to. i like Portia and the dowager... i would have liked Simon better if he was portrayed better, but to my disappointment, he wasn't. Simon is a confident, strong character, but Stephanie Lauren's portrayal of him, didn't show that. sadly, i returned this book the day after i got it.
Rating:
Summary: disappointed
Review: I waited for this book and was excited about getting it.
I was really disappointed. The story was very thin.
It was almost the Tannebaum movie in print form.
If you saw the movie... I don't think that type of story
can or should be put in print.
Rating: 
Summary: NOT HER BEST
Review: I was eagerly awaiting this book. After the first six pages, I had to push myself to continue reading through the poor editing -- from what dictionary did "forseen" come? Yet, out of devotion to Stephanie Laurens and to the Cynsters, I read on...to disappointment. Although Simon and Portia may have felt comfortable in each other's silence, this reader would have liked more conversation, more passion, less introspection, and fewer rambing narratives. Simon and Portia never seemed to connect on any level. Read this book because you want to complete the series but don't expect to be "thrilled" as you were in the other books.
Rating: 
Summary: Disappointed!!!!!
Review: I was impressed with the first books in this series, but this one is very disappointing. The story was very difficult to follow. I would not recommend this book.
Rating:
Summary: Lotsa sex but not much else
Review: I'm a first time Laurens reader and I have/had no idea who these characters were from any previous books. I am used to reading modern-day romantic suspense (like Nora Roberts and Meryl Sawyer) so this was a huge departure from those types of books. In general it is sometimes hard for me to read historical love stories because the language is too convoluted, but the writing here was very modern - no weird old-fashioned words.. just straightforward talk and sentences. The book was definitely lacking a substantial plot (there was a murder story in there, but very minimal and uninvolving). This was an extremely sensual story - the main character (Portia) was the typical unknowing virgin and her suitor (Simon) the wordly sex instructor, and they were going at it like rabbits on every other page. There was absolutely no shortage of sex in this book. The book started really well by giving some insight into their previous relationship as adversaries, but after the first time they made out it went downhill fast, and was just a book filled with sex scenes. I'm not sure if I'd recommend it or not - it wasn't awful.. just not high caliber writing/reading material.
Rating:
Summary: Not up to snuff
Review: I'm usually a huge Stephanie Laurens fan and a fan of the Cynster series. This book however is really lacking her usually style and humour. You know in the first 10 pages how it's going to turn out --- there's a semi-interesting mystery (ala Amanda Quick) thrown in the middle, but that's the only interesting piece in the book at all. I almost stopped reading it 1/4 of the way through because it was just boring and completely predictable (in an overdone, not comfort food) kind of way. Here's hoping her next book is better...
Rating: 
Summary: Loved it!!!
Review: I've just finished reading "The perfect lover" (I received it this morning), and I just loved it!!!!
I've bought all the Cynster's books, and I think they are all great (specially "Devil's Bride" and "A secret love"). This book is a perfect addition to the series. Simon and Portia are a believable couple, and it is quite entertaining to see how they relationship develops (I already took note of their interaction in "On a wicked dawn": I just loved the way in which they were always fighting). I only wish I could have bought the paperback, as this edition (hardback) was quite expensive (specially taking in consideration that as I live in Argentina shipping charges are very high).
So, now it is time to answer the big question... should you buy it? Yes, by all means. I'm quite sure you'll enjoy it. As for myself, I'll go on buying books by Laurens. I'm eagerly waiting for her Bastion Club series (they sound good)... And I cannot help but wonder if Portia's sister (Penelope) is going to have a story of her own. Anyway, I'll probably have to wait for that... In the meantime, it's highly likely I'll reread her Cynster series, because they are really incredibly good keepers!!!
Rating:
Summary: No Story-Just lots of XXX
Review: I've never been so bored as I was during the reading of this book. The only reason I finished it was because I can't stand to start a book and not read it in its entirety.
If pornography were all I wanted, this would certainly fill that need. But, this is not the book for someone wanting to read a warm love story with a meaningful plot.
.
Rating:
Summary: Definitely "A Perfect Lover"
Review: I've read the whole Cynster series. Since I knew this book was in printing I couldn't wait to see what happens to Simon. What I've read already makes it another sensual and romantic story written by Laurens. I love it. I would give it more stars if possible.
Rating: 
Summary: strong Cynster tale
Review: In 1835 though he is wealthy, belongs to a very prominent family, and can score with just about any female he chooses, Simon Frederick Cynster believes it is time to marry. He has no one in mind, but Simon feels that the right loving wife would fill the hole in his soul. However, he also knows he must not announce his intentions to the Ton or he will face an unending queue of wannabe wives. Simon stealthily begins his quest at a house party, but is amazed to find childhood friend Portia Ashford as the best candidate. He becomes further convinced when they share a kiss that stirs his blood. He had never seen Portia in that light, but now all he must do is persuade her that marriage to him will not destroy her vaunted independence. He begins his campaign to win her love while she surprises herself by coveting more of his kisses. However, a murder occurs with the evidence pointing towards Portia probably being the next victim unless Simon can work the Cynster magic and keep his beloved safe. Fans of the Cynster series will appreciate the tenth tale starring a charming couple. The story line contains much of the magic of the previous novels, but that is a two edged sword. The plot is exciting with plenty of intrigue and a fine lead duo, but also tends to leave long time readers having trouble delineating Simon from previous heroes such as Lucifer (see ALL ABOUT LOVE). Still Stephanie Laurens continues to rock readers with her newest strong Regency romance, THE PERFECT LOVER. Harriet Klausner
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