Spitfire

Rating:
Summary: Well.........
Review: I'm not sure I mean this as a negative review or not. I'm not finished with the book yet. I might add I can usually finish a book in a 24 hour period but this book is giving me a bit of trouble.

Intricate is a subtle word. History and logistics are very prevelant. To me there is far too much about the King of England, the King of Scotland, politics, and who is related to who by their extramarital affairs. It is unfair for me to give an opinion before I finish the book but truthfully, I am of a mind to close the book and feel that I have not missed anything. I'm sorry to say, I'm bored with it.

This is not my first Bertrice Small book and am feeling a bit guilty for speaking my mind. At the moment, (where I am in the book) Arabella is a spy in France for Tudor. I understand Arabella's reasons and her plight but cannot help but feel it is toooooo much. She and Tavis are suppose to be in love with each other. Her determination and honor binds her to her ancestorial home and title even it if it for her daugher. I am forcing myself to finish this soon because I am curious to Tavis's reaction. I confess I have skimmed frequently and perhaps I am missing some vital events but the first and second line of the paragraph seems to explain the rest of the paragraphs intent.

To gage this review, I am partial to Stephanie Laurens, Susan Johnson, Connie Mason, Christine Feehan and I won't bore you by going on. Like most, I enjoy fiction because it is that, fiction; this however is far too detailed. The love scenes are so so. I am not one to look for many love that take up a chapter in itself describing every detail but I find them lacking in this book. The warmth and emotion are not emphasized adequately.

I apologize for my opinion before completing the book but I have read many romance novels over a 6 year period and am sorry to say this book does not hold my interest. The story and situations seem to go on forever.

I hope this has helped you. I personally rely on the reviews of other readers. I'm sorry that I cannot give this more than one star. I am not in any hurry to read any more of Ms. Small's book.

My apologies to Ms. Small and her fans. In closing, I suppose this is a negative review of this book. Sorry.

Rating:
Summary: Small's Most Intriguing Heroine?
Review: The first thing I can say about Arabella Grey is that she is unique among the hallowed halls of Bertrice Small heroines. Right from her introduction, Arabella is a different creature. She is intelligent in an academic way but also possesses a more primal and intuitive kind of intelligence. One of the things I enjoyed most about this book were the intricate paths of logic which were so central to Arabella's character. Yes, she understands things--but moreover, the reader gets into her working mind to see just how she reaches the shocking and surprising conclusions she does. Bear in mind that this is not a typical historical romance. Small's panorama of historicity is complex and detailed. Additionally, I saw this less as a tale between a man and a woman and more of the story of a brave and independent female charting her own destiny through a difficult time and social climate.

Rating:
Summary: Small's Most Intriguing Heroine?
Review: The first thing I can say about Arabella Grey is that she is unique among the hallowed halls of Bertrice Small heroines. Right from her introduction, Arabella is a different creature. She is intelligent in an academic way but also possesses a more primal and intuitive kind of intelligence. One of the things I enjoyed most about this book were the intricate paths of logic which were so central to Arabella's character. Yes, she understands things--but moreover, the reader gets into her working mind to see just how she reaches the shocking and surprising conclusions she does. Bear in mind that this is not a typical historical romance. Small's panorama of historicity is complex and detailed. Additionally, I saw this less as a tale between a man and a woman and more of the story of a brave and independent female charting her own destiny through a difficult time and social climate.

Rating:
Summary: A weak entry in the field of romance...
Review: There is more to romance than sex. I wasn't convinced of any love existing between the characters. Worse, the heroine is a no more than a prostitute. There is a thing known as pride. This woman is no example for other women to model themselves after. It's the brain not the body. She had another choice.

Rating:
Summary: Wild and Irresistible
Review: This book often does not get the respect it deserves. True, the characters are not particulary likeable. Arabella is spoiled and makes a very stupid choice. Tavis is overbearing and stubborn, but when you put these two together-WOW! Sparks fly from the first moment. The story is quite complex and since it is set in a very tumultous period of English history the people you encounter sometimes seem quite harsh. I love this book and read it often, I think it is one of Ms.Small's best books. An open mind is needed to fully enjoy this book and it is definitely NOT for those who are easily shocked or offended. If you are ready for an unforgettable journey with totally unique characters then this book is for you!

Rating:
Summary: Witty & Wicked
Review: This is the book that inspired me to start writing my own short stories and romance novel. With such an intricate style of writing, such attention to detail and such well-rounded (no pun intended! ) characters, Bertrice creates such memorable stories. Arabella and her other heroines are not only beautiful, but smart and sexy! With such lewd men and saucy little ladies, Bertrice's books are always entertaining. I have never been able to put one of her books down once I started reading them. The Spitfire is filled with such adventure and suspense, such passion and love, that you cannot help but fall in love with the characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants step above the average romance novel.

Rating:
Summary: Not the best, but a good book nonetheless
Review: Unlike most of the heroines in Bertrice Small's books, I wasn't as drawn to Arabella as I was to the others. The storyline itself is a good one and as usual the rich, vibrant descriptions lure you into the story. However, there was something missing that kept me from losing myself completely in this plot.