4 out of 5 stars.
I would like to thank Kensington Books for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an open and honest review.
‘The Lady who lived again’ was a very enjoyable little read. Although not the most historically accurate of historical romances I have read, I don’t care as it made up for it with the romance, the character’s personalities and that little touch of the supernatural. And I really do wish I could explain WHY I didn’t feel it historically accurate enough… there was just something to the personalities and mindsets I couldn’t come to believe. But I still loved the characters, the setting and pace of this book so did not let such a minor niggle get in the road of me enjoying the read.
It was a perfect escape from reality to fill up a few hours for me at a stressful time and therefore a well written book that, for me, did what I expected it to.
Although I’ve not read any other works by Ms Rappold, I can see myself looking for her the next time I need a bit of romantic escapism. I really enjoyed her writing style, her characters; the whole small town setting of Misty Lake and her romance and sex scenes were just the right balance without being over the top and being the only reason the book was written. Yes, call me a prude, but I’m not a fan of romance novels that seem to rely solely on constant graphical sex to sell it. ‘The Lady who lived again’ has just the right balance to titillate and entertain, but not so much as it takes over the story and actually destroys the romance and suspense of just exactly HOW the happily ever after will occur… and will it actually occur?
Would I recommend this book to others? I would, but would point out it’s not the most historically accurate of tales. Sorry, I hate to be so picky (as I really enjoyed the story) but, yeah, skim the inaccuracies and just enjoy the budding romance.
Would I buy this book for myself? Possibly. Though, to be honest, it’s more the sort of thing I would borrow from my library to escape with as needed. I did enjoy it a lot and I am keen to read more by this author… but I’m still undecided as to whether I’d own it. If I feel myself craving to return and relive Jace and Maddie’s romance in a few months’ time… then obviously I should own it so I can grab and read at whim.
In summary: A fantastic bit of escapism through a well written romance with a bit of a supernatural twist. I liked the characters, the setting and the pace and look forward to reading more from this author when I can.
Until next time,
Janis. XXOO
Janis's Journal 