Rating: 
Summary: You guys reading the same book?
Review: Are you guys reading the same book I read? This is great historical fiction, done with a real historical attitude. The characters are wonderful, and the writing is elegant and atmospheric. I haven't read this author's other stuff, but I certainly mean to!
Rating:
Summary: Engaging, Subtle, and Heartbreaking
Review: I'm baffled by some of the responses to this book. Ms. Gabaldon explains clearly that it's essentially a short story, and an outgrowth of the Outlander books, not a continuation. Why should people be all upset that it isn't about Jamie and Claire, when it wasn't meant to be? What it _is_ is a remarkable portrait of a man and a time,both fascinating. The portrayal of what it was to live in the solitude of an "unacceptable" sexual nature is tender, perceptive, and really heartbreaking in spots. I've always loved Lord John and was so interested to see this in-depth look at him. The mystery itself is fascinating and entertaining, with a great setting and a terrific resolution.
Rating: 
Summary: Another Mystery
Review: If there are only 4 reviews, with the highest rating 3 stars; then how does the "Average Customer Rating" show 4.5 stars?
Rating: 
Summary: Lord John Gray and the Private Matter
Review: As an avid Diana Gabaldon fan, I have all of her books, and I grabbed this book the moment it was available. Unfortunately, for me, it was a huge let down. The book is defintely not a romance but a mystery, but in my opinion the mystery was pretty weak and I just could'nt get into the story at all. Because I have loved Diana's Outlander series, I was willing to try something different by this amazingly talented author, but after reading Lord John & the Private Matter, I have to say that I'll stick with the Outlander books from now on and pass on the mysteries.
Rating:
Summary: Don't waste your time
Review: I anxiously await each and every book in the Outlander series. Even though the story has become so drawn out and cumbersome, I just can't wait to find out what will happen to Jamie and Claire. So I bought this book in hopes that it would continue the saga somewhat. What a disappointment. This book is solely about Lord John Grey, a character in the Outlander series that is actually one of my least favorite. The story line is okay, but what makes the Outlander series so wonderful is that you care so much about the main characters. This main character does not interest me as Jamie and Claire do. And I was SO disappointed to learn that this is the first book of a TRILOGY! Does that mean that Ms. Gabaldon will now be spending her time writing more about Lord John and not finishing the Outlander series? Please, Ms. Gabaldon, bring back our favorite characters and let us know how that story ends before you start on another tangent with Lord John.
Rating:
Summary: Disappointing.
Review: I was a big fan of the Outlander series, but it seems as if DG has lost her way. This book is way too complicated. It has too many characters with too little development. It also has a very complicated plot, made more baffling by DG's desire to keep us in suspense, and holding back explanations for events, which you are supposed to remember and be able to stitch back together as more is slowly revealed. Maybe I just wasn't concentrating enough but I found it all quite torturous and sluggish. The whole gay underworld angle, and generally the sexual side of things, come off as salacious and sensational rather than the refreshingly open and natural effect achieved in the Outlander books. I think that's because there is very little true romance or connection between the characters. All in all very disappointing. And I love the Lord John character.
Rating:
Summary: Average Reading
Review: Lord John is an interesting, compelling character, and the historical details Gabaldon immerses us in are fascinating. The mystery itself, however, is less than riveting. Lord John's homosexuality is treated tastefully and respectfully, a rare find for literature of this time period. His personal relationships are described a bit too discretely. I enjoyed this book, but it is missing the usual magic that Gabaldon weaves.
Rating: 
Summary: Huge Letdown
Review: Sorry Diana,
I'm a huge fan of The Outlander series and this one held such promise...
Where was the love and passion we've come to expect from you? Lord John has SO much more to offer than this! I was very disappointed in the story and even more so by the length of the book. You said it "started out to be a short story". Make no mistake, this IS a short story! A mere chapter by your own standards.
Rating:
Summary: Not Up to Par
Review: I am an avid fan of Ms. Galbaldon but this "fill in" book until the next in the Outlander series is a sad commentary on her abilities. It is fairly interesting but does not contain her skills or interest in the period. I was disappointed thinking this book would quell my thirst for her writing - it was only a sidetrack into the seamier side of the period. Wait for the next book.
Rating: 
Summary: A good mystery
Review: This book is a departure from our usual Diana Gabaldon fare. It is definitely not a romance - but none of her books are romances - there is only one scene that even hints at romance, and the particulars are left to the reader's imagination. The book provides some intriguing insights into the mind and character of Lord John Grey. No matter what one may think of him in the main series, one will know him better and perhaps see him as a more sympathetic character after reading this book. At heart, Lord John is a good and honorable man and these traits are displayed in a good twisting plot
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