The Highest Stakes

Nov 17, 2010 Shawna rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Horse lovers, historical fiction readers, & fans of star-crossed lovers

Recommended to Shawna by: Emery Lee

Shelves: animals-matter, historical-romance, historical-romance-georgian, fiction, favorite-beautiful-lush-cool-covers, hh-social-class-wealth-matters, wager, cop-bodyguard-govop-merc-military, heroine-disguises-as-a-man, heroine-tomboy-lady-in-pants, star-crossed-lovers, hero-commoner-self-made, friends-to-lovers, 2010-reads, angsty-dark-heavy-lotsa-drama, action-adventure-treasure-hunting, austin-romantics-group-read, cheating-hearts-fidelity-issues, hero-abused-scarred-tortured-angst, hero-beta, hero-darcy-paragon-haughty-staid, hero-gambler, hh-aristocracy-nobility-royalty, hero-cad-rake-rogue‎-scoundrel, hero-celibate-virgin-virginesque, heroine-i-adore, heroine-kickass-spirited-strong, heroine-naïve-virgin-like-a-virgin, hh-disfigured-injured-scarred-ill, hh-physical-mental-disability-ill, hh-servant-serving-working-class, revenge-deception-secrets-lies, reunions-are-sweeter-second-chances, hero-addict-excon-lawtrouble-thief, hero-bad-boy-playboy, heroine-abused-traumatic-past-rape, historical-fiction, romantic-historical-fiction, epic-love-story-saga, 4-to-5-stars, steam-1-tepid, hh-across-the-tracks, hero-besotted-so-smitten-its-sexy, emery-lee-victoria-vane, hero-military-war-veteran, ending-abrupt-poor-epilogue-needed, i-read-no-longer-own-sold-swapped

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. 4 ½ stars – Romantic Historical Fiction

Note: This is actually my second review, as the original got lost somewhere on the Island of Server Timeouts and Misfit Reviews.

At this stage in my life, I read exclusively romance (of various subgenres) because it’s what interests and entertains me, and life is too short to read books that I don’t want to. I used to read historical fiction and non-fiction because I enjoy learning about people and places in various times and seeing the ways society has cha...more

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Nov 12, 2011 TJ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, historical, clean

Wow, I don’t know where to start with this book, so much to say, so little space! First I need to say I LOVED it, it was INCREDIBLE. So why the 4 star rating, well, that’s the problem, there are so many layers to this book, one would almost have to review it in stages to really do it justice, it’s just that complex.

The first half of the book spends a lot of time describing the intricacies of the horse breeding and racing world of the 18th century. To a horse lover or anyone open to learning, it...more
Wow, I don’t know where to start with this book, so much to say, so little space! First I need to say I LOVED it, it was INCREDIBLE. So why the 4 star rating, well, that’s the problem, there are so many layers to this book, one would almost have to review it in stages to really do it justice, it’s just that complex.

The first half of the book spends a lot of time describing the intricacies of the horse breeding and racing world of the 18th century. To a horse lover or anyone open to learning, it is interesting. It is explained in such detail, however, that it almost overshadows the developing story. Those readers who have but a general interest in these things may choose to give up and quit reading. That would be a BIG mistake! Even if one has to skim-read parts, I would encourage perseverance because the second half of the book takes off like a lightening shot and never looks back!

Charlotte and Robert’s love for each other, in spite of their differences in social standing, pits them against the world, building through the first half of the book, then launching us on a roller-coaster ride of emotion until the final confrontation at the end. I have seldom seen more twists and turns that I could NOT figure out or guess the outcome of! It is so well written that it keeps you blindly guessing in the dark with each new coil. The history is point on, deftly interwoven into the plot in such a way that one doesn’t feel dumped on but is enlightened without really recognizing.

The one problem (and it is a big one) I saw among the multitude of applause is the ending. I HATED IT!!! Dare I add more exclamation points? It is not the HEA, per say (there is one) it is the circumstances directly leading up to that “happily ever after”. Upon reading the last three pages of the story, I wanted to throw the book at the wall, then run over and stomp on it repeatedly and throw it at the opposite wall! DO NOT bring me to a heart wrenching climax, then just give up (hmm, no pun intended)!!!! A climatic ending works only if the reader is left satisfied enough to believe the HEA is real!

Whew, ahem...I’m calm, I’m calm now... (kudos to the author who can get me this emotionally involved!) I would highly recommend this book if only to provide people to discuss it with. Someone really needs to help me through that ending before I attempt any more Emery Lee books.(less)

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Nov 12, 2011 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: recd-by-shawna, format-kindle-or-kindle-compatible, freebie-kindle, starts-with-e-thru-h, ebook-own-have-read, reviewed-by-me, 2011-reads, 4-stars, horses-horse-racing, romance-light, author-emery-lee, revenge-retribution, military-historical, historical-georgian, historical-colonial, location-england, location-virginia, location-colonies, freebie-amazon

The Highest Stakes is author Emery Lee’s debut novel and, quite simply put, a story of epic proportions! It’s a tale of betrayal, murder, redemption, love lost and love found, scheming, more betrayal, heroes and villains, heroines and shrews, war and peace, retribution, manipulation, love lost again, then found again, greed, humor, sorrow, twists, turns and… well… sounds a bit like a historical soap opera, doesn’t it? But I’m telling you… General Hospital was never this good!!

I've often found th...more
The Highest Stakes is author Emery Lee’s debut novel and, quite simply put, a story of epic proportions! It’s a tale of betrayal, murder, redemption, love lost and love found, scheming, more betrayal, heroes and villains, heroines and shrews, war and peace, retribution, manipulation, love lost again, then found again, greed, humor, sorrow, twists, turns and… well… sounds a bit like a historical soap opera, doesn’t it? But I’m telling you… General Hospital was never this good!!

I've often found that in order to hold my attention, I need a story heavy on the romance, so having been told that this book isn’t really a romance at all, I hadn't felt the urge to read it. Really? Not a romance? Well, I beg to differ, because while romance is not the primary focus in this story, it’s definitely the reason for it! Yes, quite a lot of the tale is dedicated to the sport of horse racing, and the passion of all things equine, but the driving force behind this story is love, and doing whatever is needed to be with that one person who is more important to you than any other; the love of your life.

One of my very favorite things about historical novels is that wonderful feeling of leaving the present behind and being swept away to another time and place, and Emery Lee gave me that! With richly detailed descriptions of life in Georgian England and authentic period dialog, I was right there with our characters whether they were at the races, hearts pounding in anticipation of victory, or in battle fighting for their very lives, and even experiencing something as simple as that first kiss. I was there through it all and it doesn’t get any better than that.

While I do admit to skimming through most of the more detailed blood-lining and breeding techniques which took up a good bit of the early pages, what I did read of it was fascinating. And, for those of you who might be wondering, if I were to rate this story based on violence or sexuality, I’d call it PG-13. Any scenes of intimacy were only alluded to and took place behind closed doors. That said, while I normally like a little more steam in the books I read, I don't feel that this story suffered for the lack of it.

There were quite a few quotes I would have loved to use in this review, but most of them would have given away far too much of the story, so I’ve narrowed it down to just two. This first one comes after a scene I found quite heartbreaking and, like it or not, has the ring of truth to it.

"Now as to our business, sir. I have done your bidding, though it was clearly contrary to my conscience and cost me dearly. In truth, no dowry could compensate for what I have lost."

Sir Garfield pulled a fat coin purse from his pocket. "And what would you expect as recompense for your losses?"

"There is no restitution for integrity," he said bitterly.

"On the contrary, Major. Integrity always has a price. To lose or to keep; there is invariably a cost. Some just pay more dearly than others."

And this second quote – well, I was laughing as I read it. Those of us who love our historical romance novels know that many a bride-to-be didn’t want to be. So this little exchange between mother and daughter was pretty humorous, especially the first paragraph. Maybe it was this kind of thinking that gave birth to the phrase, "God's gift to women!"

Lady Felicia reassured her with a pat on the hand. "My dearest daughter, though it is a sad injustice, a woman seldom weds to her own volition. The Good Lord bestowed upon males the greater reasoning and intellect, thus it is for us women to obey them."

"But what if the man is a besotted lech… or a fusty bore… or ill-visaged, bad tempered, and deformed… or stingy, cruel, and close-fisted… or all of it!" she wailed.

"Trixie, I clearly sympathize, but pray cease the histrionics. As to your apprehensions, a clever woman can learn to manage her husband, even one who is… shall we say… less than desirable."

"But, Mama, I don't want such a husband!"

"Hear me out, Beatrix," she admonished. "If your husband should be faithless, affect ignorance. If he has a predilection for strong drink, feign tolerance; if he is choleric or sullen, be long-suffering until his mood spends itself. If he be a close-fisted despot, adopt a demure address. But if he be a weak and incompetent man, count your blessings, for you need only give him the very orders you should later receive from him. Lastly and most importantly, if you have wealth and position, your marriage need not be the least incommodious, regardless of your husband's temperament."

The bottom line - The Highest Stakes was a pleasure to read and I highly recommend it to any fan of historical fiction and storylines that haven’t already been done to death. If you’re like me, you want to feel as though you’re actually a part of the stories you read rather than just a curious onlooker. You need to care about the men and women and their struggles and triumphs. Well, if that's the case, I really do think you’d enjoy this story. I found my emotions all over the place, feeling sorrow one minute, joy the next, and even laughing out loud at times! But most importantly, I found myself in love with our hero and heroine, Robert and Charlotte, and cheering them on as they fought the less than favorable odds for their happily ever after.

I’m very much looking forward to Philip’s story, Fortune’s Son, and can’t wait to see if, or how, he can possibly be redeemed!
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Nov 12, 2010 Lady Danielle aka The Book Huntress rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Equine lovers and fans of historical fiction

Shelves: historical-romance, owned-copy, read-in-november-2010, book-that-contributed-to-my-love-of, historical-fiction, starcrossed, adultery, hero-i-loved, heroine-i-loved, animal-centered-fiction, favorites, hero-or-heroine-gravely-ill, capable-heroine, georgian, animal-husbandry

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. First of all, I want to thank Emery Lee for the opportunity to read her book. This was not a typical read for me, since I don't tend to read a lot of historical fiction that is not romance. The Highest Stakes was a good stepping stone for me into the historical fiction genre, with a good, strong love story for my romance-loving palate.

I have to confess I did not grow up with horses. I actually never really had contact with them until I was in college. So, I became a equine aficionado later in m...more First of all, I want to thank Emery Lee for the opportunity to read her book. This was not a typical read for me, since I don't tend to read a lot of historical fiction that is not romance. The Highest Stakes was a good stepping stone for me into the historical fiction genre, with a good, strong love story for my romance-loving palate.

I have to confess I did not grow up with horses. I actually never really had contact with them until I was in college. So, I became a equine aficionado later in my life. Without a doubt, The Highest Stakes is a book for horse-lovers. It is very clear that Ms. Lee loves, understands, and respects horses; and is very much an equestrienne. I appreciate the detail that she put into describing people firmly immersed in horse culture, and in giving this horse-racing novice a crash course into the horse-racing industry. Now, don't expect me to be down at the horse tracks every weekend. That's not going to happen. But I must say, I have a lot more respect for what goes into horse-racing. I am just as much a horse-lover as I ever was, maybe a little more after this book. In fact, I loved reading about the details of equine husbandry. I can certainly see how it becomes an obsession that can drive people in many ways, like it did with the three main characters in this story: Robert, Charlotte, and Philip.

On top of the foundation of horse-racing, this is a story about human nature: the dark sides, and the fundamental urges within people that drive them to achieve what they want most in life. For Robert and Charlotte, they just wanted each other. A mutual love of horses was their intial connection, and a great love blossomed between them from that starting point. Their road to happiness was a very crooked, even heartbreaking path. Many times, I felt like I was being twisted into painful knots as I read about all the troubles that this couple faced. I wanted to keep reading, crossing my fingers that things would work out; and at times, I was afraid to read one more page, for fear that their love would be driven past the point of survival. Fate seemed against them at many turns, although there was also a providential guiding hand that kept them working and striving towards their future together. I came to love and respect them both very deeply. I respect Ms. Lee that she was not afraid to put this couple through so much over the course of this book, even if it didn't always make for comfortable reading for me.

Philip was by far the most complex character. I must confess I still don't quite have him figured out. He manages to be a very self-serving person, but at the same time, he has a core of honor. Towards the end of the book, I really wanted to hate him, but I found I could not, because he was such a fascinating person, and truly did want to be a good man. He made some wrong decisions that really hurt two people that he cared about. At the same time, he played an important role in their destinies, and in some ways, helped to drive them to achieve the successes they obtained in the horsebreeding fields. One thing was for certain, he came very close to stealing the show, despite the fact that I really loved Robert and Charlotte's characters.

The writing was very good. Ms. Lee firmly establishes the Georgian period, and she doesn't have to spend a lot of detail describing what the characters wore, or what their houses looked like. Instead, she weaves in a time table of important events that occur in the background of this story, and which involve Robert and Phillip to no small extent. It felt very authentic, yet she always kept this book readable. To be honest, I am not sure that this book would appeal to readers who have no interest in horses. But that's okay. I am glad that Ms. Lee wrote a book about a subject that she clearly has a lot of passion for, and did it well; for her passion for horses is quite infectious to those who have the slightest inclination in that direction.

Quite frankly, this book came very close to being a five star book. I think that for readers who don't mind some very complicated obstacles between the hero and heroine, it probably would be a five star book. Unfortunately, I just don't like when the hero and heroine are together while they are married to other people. I really regretted that Robert and Charlotte's first time together occurs after she is forced to marry Philip. I can see that this was a realistic choice for Ms. Lee to make in plotting her story, but it just left a bad taste in my mouth. I would have preferred for Robert and Charlotte's happy ending to be unmarred by this. I freely admit that adultery is my huge pet peeve and it's hard to get past that when I am reading a romantic story. Despite that fact, I cheered on the couple for being able to get their happy ending. My other issue was that I found the ending to be a little abrupt. I was very glad to see Robert and Charlotte to achieve many of their life goals, but I would have preferred to see a little more page time spent on their reunion and how they dealt with Phillip. I did like the letter. It was a nice, and very fitting way for some of the denouement to be incorporated into the story.

The Highest Stakes was an excellent book. I was emotionally and intellectually involved with this story. It is very clear that Ms. Lee put a lot of heart and soul into this book, making for a great reading experience. Highly recommended to horse-lovers, fans of historical fiction, and those who love a good star-crossed romance.

Overall rating: 4.5/5.0 stars.

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Sep 19, 2010 Rane rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: georgian-romance, keeper

We’re off to the races with the epic romantic adventure: The Highest Stakes, and when I say epic, I really mean epic, the novel spanning over the years as two lovers fight to be together and are torn part by the greed of others and finally reunited after going through hell and back, but their love was ever constant and strong.

The stakes are none so higher when it comes to love and horse racing with the cast of characters sharing the spotlight at one time or another, but none so much as Robert...more We’re off to the races with the epic romantic adventure: The Highest Stakes, and when I say epic, I really mean epic, the novel spanning over the years as two lovers fight to be together and are torn part by the greed of others and finally reunited after going through hell and back, but their love was ever constant and strong.

The stakes are none so higher when it comes to love and horse racing with the cast of characters sharing the spotlight at one time or another, but none so much as Robert and Charlotte. Robert Devington a groom and Charlotte the niece of Sir Garfield are truly in love and have been for a long time, and to prove himself Robert puts his neck out time and again to prove his worth to Sir Garfield, so he mat marry Charlotte, but no matter what he does Sir Garfield turns down or somehow foils any marriage between the two lovers. After so many plans that failed, this doesn’t stop Robert or Charlotte from believing and hoping that one day they will be together. Through the story, Robert is the constant hero, sometimes brash but never unkind, he loves deeply, that it pains the reader when his plans fall apart to somehow make Charlotte his wife, from being a groom, to becoming a solider, then facing even death Robert never gives up his dreams and later revenge on those whom have done him wrong. Charlotte is strong, but not a feisty heroine, whom not only believes in Robert, but a horsewoman beyond her time. These two fight a lot of pains to be together one again. And even with the big misunderstanding that tears them apart for awhile, and am not a fan at all of the Big Mis,Emery Lee made it work smoothly.

Much of the book not only revolves around the lives of Robert and Charlotte and those whom they know and family, but around horses and horse racing. Now am going to be upfront, am not one whose big of horses, oh I love horses and had three amazing horses whom I cared and loved (never did ride, as they were more pets and pals) and the author does focus a lot of the book on the history of horses and horse racing at the time, that could become very tedious at times. But as I started to really read I noticed Emery Lee using the horses and horse racing as a sort of metaphor for what was or are going to happen to the characters. From the underdog winner to the steadiness and quiet strength in a calvary horse but also in the solider whose riding into battle. I thought this was cleverly done, that instead of skimming, I tended to pay attention to these races.

Like a true race, with the hooves pounding the turf, the crowd cheering on their favorite this book never let up in it’s pace, and kept you guessing. Some books are very predicable that the reader feels their going backward then forward, this book is never predicable, far from it, you never know what going to happen. Nothing ends up the way you think it would, and I early on fool myself into thinking I knew what was going to happen, and that was nip in the bud real quick.

Along with the unpredictably of the story, the characters were also shown in black and white and also in deep shades of grey. While some characters were driven by love others were driven by greed and lust. Philip Drake for example only thinks about one thing himself, and is out to get his heiress by any means possible, while being Robert’s friend, his plans blow up in his face as he helps destroy one of the plans between Robert and Charlotte. Philip was one character whom at times seem like he cared and other times a true schemer. He could have done thing differently, in order to archive his goals, instead tried to take the easy way out. Philip knows he’s done wrong but never goes out of his way to prove himself to be better. EL showing what evil ambition can do. Many of the evil characters get their just desserts but in very subtle ways. With many of their plans falling apart at the seams. While I wanted more focus on Robert (mostly) and Charlotte, I found that some of the focus shifted to other unlikeable characters whom I could cared less about, this expanded the story that much more.

Being a romance, in a lot of books now of days you expect sex, in The Highest Stakes, this happens off screen or implied with a little groping and some heavy kissing (and an almost rape scene as the character gets out of there quickly) but that’s it, I really liked how this was done, with the main focus on their actions and consequences of the characters because they had sex , then just the physical act itself.

The Highest Stakes was an even expanding book, with the ending a tad abrupt for me, but then again if my plans to marry the guy I love were foiled so many times and I got my chance for a clean break, I do it Las Vegas style and get married as quick as I can!! Then epilogue did smooth this out making a clean break from the past hurts to the future joys.

Overall:. I greatly enjoyed this book from start to finish with a few little bumps in the road, this book never let my attention stray far and kept me reading, wanting to find out what would happen next! I can’t wait for this author’s next book!(less)

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Mar 17, 2010 Tara Chevrestt rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Tara by: Misfit

Shelves: historical-fiction, england, arc, 2010-release, horses

This is a very dramatic tale, reads much like a soap opera in the early days of horse racing. However, the book cover may have one thinking it is mostly about Charlotte. That is not the case.. It follows Robert and his friend Philip most of the time with very little of the limelight focusing on Charlotte who despite donning a pair of breeches and riding astride a horse, is a typical damsel in distress.

I liked the book tho. It kept me guessing. For once, I couldn't predict every turn and outcome...more

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Aug 05, 2012 Allison rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, romantic, mild-sweet, england, 1700s, ebook-deals, own-it-e-book

Highest Stakes is a historical novel set in Georgian England. It is not a romance novel, although a romance is central to the story. It is about greed and ambition, class and the lack of choice for women and commoners. It's about the lucrative and vicious business of horse-breeding and racing, soldiering in the Napoleonic War, and characters attempting to break out of their social status.

I really enjoy historical fiction that doesn't focus on famous people and events because the outcome isn't p...more

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Aug 02, 2010 Emery Lee rated it 5 of 5 stars · (Review from the author) · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, historical-romance

THE HIGHEST STAKES - commentary author Emery Lee

Since THE HIGHEST STAKES' release, I have done a number of guest blogs to answer questions about my creative process, why I chose Georgian England and Colonial Virginia as my settings, and how I researched the novel. I also wrote about the history of horseracing and my own passion for equines. I would now like share some of these thoughts and add some background information on the novel itself.

It is always said that one should write one's passions...more THE HIGHEST STAKES - commentary author Emery Lee

Since THE HIGHEST STAKES' release, I have done a number of guest blogs to answer questions about my creative process, why I chose Georgian England and Colonial Virginia as my settings, and how I researched the novel. I also wrote about the history of horseracing and my own passion for equines. I would now like share some of these thoughts and add some background information on the novel itself.

It is always said that one should write one's passions. In my case, this would mean converging horses, history and romance, elements that at first glance appear very much at odds, but the combination, to me, was irresistible. I wanted to create a hero, (Robert Devington) who would overcome many obstacles to find love and happiness, with his ultimate fate hanging on a horse race.

A story of star-crossed lovers and horseracing, THE HIGHEST STAKES transports the reader to the hard-drinking, vice-ridden, horseracing world of Georgian England. Fascinating and titillating, this was an era of corruption, arranged marriages, and high stakes gambling; when racing and breeding became the obsession of the uppermost elite, and a match race might replace a duel in settling a point of honor. It was also an age in which a powerful and privileged aristocracy used an outer façade of honor and politesse to cover its multifarious sins.

My research in this endeavor was both extensive and diverse, going back to the early 18th century and the creation of the Thoroughbred itself. The horses (all progeny of the Byerley Turk, and the Darley and Godolphin Arabians) are seamlessly woven into the plot in which the success of Sir Garfield's racing stud is elemental to his schemes of social advancement, and a racing wager becomes the only pathway Devington sees to win his true love, Charlotte.

Charlotte Wallace is a young girl who is orphaned and forced to live with uncaring and socially ambitious relatives. Lonely and neglected, she seeks solace within her uncle's racing stables where she meets the young man with whom she share's what will become her lifelong passion- racehorses.

The young and ambitious Robert Devington is a lowly, but talented stable groom, who leaves his employ for the military in order to better himself in the eyes of Charlotte's uncle. After some time passes, Robert returns to claim Charlotte's hand in any way possible, ultimately leading to a racing wager that sets the plot in motion.

Through the fictional love story of Robert Devington and Charlottte Wallace, a tale of drama, danger, thwarted love, and retribution unfurls...

Enjoy the ride!
Emery Lee
www.authoremerylee.com
http://emerylee.wordpress.com
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Apr 26, 2010 Gaby rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arcs, historical-fiction, historical-romance, summer-reading

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Emery Lee's The Highest Stakes opens at the races in Litchfield, Staffordshire in 1742. It's at this race that we're introduced to the characters that shape the novel. The race is for untried horses - those who have yet to win a race. Sir Garfield Wallace, a merchant who recently rose to the gentry, and an avid turf follower entered the gray mare White Rose ("Rosie") in the first race. But on the day of the race, the Wallaces are running late and the jockey, Sir Garfield's son Charles won't make...more Emery Lee's The Highest Stakes opens at the races in Litchfield, Staffordshire in 1742. It's at this race that we're introduced to the characters that shape the novel. The race is for untried horses - those who have yet to win a race. Sir Garfield Wallace, a merchant who recently rose to the gentry, and an avid turf follower entered the gray mare White Rose ("Rosie") in the first race. But on the day of the race, the Wallaces are running late and the jockey, Sir Garfield's son Charles won't make it in time. The race is limited to gentlemen jockeys: no professional jockeys are allowed -- the horses must be ridden by the owner or a member of his family. Robert Devington who has worked for Sir Garfield as a trainer, jockey, and all around problem solver decides to take a dangerous risk and claims a relationship to the Wallace family in order to keep Rosie from forfeiting the race. Devington handles Rosie brilliantly though he wins the Wallaces considerable status, he finds himself shut out once again.

Though much in love with Charlotte Wallace, Sir Garfield's niece, Robert decides that the best way to win her hand is to break away from the Wallaces and to make his own fortune. Robert enlists in the King's Horse. Robert Devington proves his mettle and somehow Robert's commanding officer, Captain Drake, becomes Robert's mentor and closest friend.

Robert and Drake find themselves closely allied as they woo Sir Garfield's niece and daughter respectively. But romance, intrigue, and social ambition keep the lovers apart -- and make The Highest Stakes a fascinating and unusual read.

In The Highest Stakes, the horse racing and breeding are more than a backdrop for the action and romance. It's the horses and those that breed, race and love them that give The Highest Stakes its unique and strong charm. I've loved horses and riding since I was young, but I think most animal lovers and lovers of historical fiction will find The Highest Stakes to be an engrossing and satisfying read.

ISBN-10: 1402236425 - Paperback $15.99
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; 1 edition (April 1, 2010), 560 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.(less)

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Apr 13, 2010 Jennifer rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-books-read

Heres is the link for my review:

http://web.me.com/quirion/Bookaddict/...

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Dec 15, 2010 Deborah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: latest-reads, new-author-for-me, paperback-i-own

"Set against the sights, sounds, and excitement of the brand new sport of thoroughbred racing. "The Highest Stakes" is a story of drama, love, and retribution in a world where pedigree is everything and fortunes can be won and lost in the blink of an eye."

"From the first day she learned to ride, Charlotte Wallace lived for the freedom that comes from tearing across the heath on one of her uncle's prized stallions. But that freeom is shattered when her uncle makes her the pawn in his bet on a hig...more "Set against the sights, sounds, and excitement of the brand new sport of thoroughbred racing. "The Highest Stakes" is a story of drama, love, and retribution in a world where pedigree is everything and fortunes can be won and lost in the blink of an eye."

"From the first day she learned to ride, Charlotte Wallace lived for the freedom that comes from tearing across the heath on one of her uncle's prized stallions. But that freeom is shattered when her uncle makes her the pawn in his bet on a high stakes horse race."

These are the cover descriptions of Emery Lee's extraordinary book, "The Highest Stakes." I'm never one to explain the story of a book, since that's something easily found on the covers or with a nod to the summaries already written. My goal as a reviewer is to tell more about the author's abilities to convey that story, and to give a personal sense of how it translates to the reader.

"The Highest Stakes," is a book that I took a risk on reading. I'm not one who knows horses. Having been completely in the dark about them, I've never grown to appreciate their history or people's attachments to them. But, when I saw Emery Lee's book, it seemed like a good time to jump in and try to see this side of things. I started reading with a jaded mind...I didn't expect to finish the book.

Surprisingly enough, I was mesmorized! Ms. Lee writes about horses, races, breeding horses, and riders as if these things were at the heart of all life. It is captivating! I learned so much about the history of horse racing. The breeding of horses and how they develop a racing horse was so interesting written from Emery's hand, and the training of a race horse became alive and almost sensual. My heart raced when the races were described!

Emery Lee is a highly articulate, intelligent writer. She has an infinite grasp of the English language of the times in which her book takes place and of the entire setting of her story. Her characters are subtle and strong. They are absorbing in their trueness and honesty, and their love of horses. There is a love story at the heart of this novel; however, it is beautifully balanced with the story of the horses as they are entwined.

This is an intelligent book. It is a book to be taken seriously. A book that will teach and thrill, I recommend it especially to those who know and love horses and English stories of the 1700's.(less)

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Mar 26, 2010 Misfit rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

3.5 stars

The story begins in 1742 and is focused around the love story of Charlotte Wallace and Robert Devington. Upon the death of her parents, Charlotte was raised in the household of her Uncle, Lord Gower. Surrounded by uncaring relatives Charlotte always is more at home in her uncle’s stables and develops a close relationship with Robert, but as a groom he can never hope to wed her (although they can dream…..). Robert signs up as a soldier in King George’s army and eventually strikes up a cl...more 3.5 stars

The story begins in 1742 and is focused around the love story of Charlotte Wallace and Robert Devington. Upon the death of her parents, Charlotte was raised in the household of her Uncle, Lord Gower. Surrounded by uncaring relatives Charlotte always is more at home in her uncle’s stables and develops a close relationship with Robert, but as a groom he can never hope to wed her (although they can dream…..). Robert signs up as a soldier in King George’s army and eventually strikes up a close friendship with Captain Phillip Drake, the younger son of the Earl of Hastings. Robert brings Phillip back to meet Lord Gower when their tour of duty is up, and Phillip finds himself quite charmed by Gower’s daughter Beatrix, but that relationship brings on unforeseen circumstances.

Finding herself in a pickle, Beatrix needs a husband and Phillip’s wastrel older brother needs to get an heir or his father will disinherit him and well, after that things start to get too complicated to try and explain without spoilers. Robert ends up in the cold and in the midst of a Big Misunderstanding of as well as facing charges for insubordination and he heads for the colonies with hatred in his heart. Thus sets up an Edmond Dantès style *Retribution* wherein Robert plots for years to wreak havoc on those who done him wrong.

All in all a pretty decent story, with the added touch of background of the world of horses, horseflesh, and the sport of racing, but at times the details on all things horsy can go on a bit and might not suit for a reader with no interest in the topic. I personally am clueless when it comes to horses so I’ll leave that for other readers to judge if the author is spot on or not. While I did enjoy Robert and Charlotte’s story and I had a hard time putting this one down, I felt that things got a tad bit too melodramatic and soap opera-ish about 1/2 of the way through, but she did pull it back up to par at the end. I’d have like to have had less of the strum and drang of the marital issues and more on Robert’s life in Virginia – that was just a bit too rushed for my tastes. The *tis* and *betimes* language got a bit wearying as well, but still minor nits and a pretty solid first outing for author Emery Lee, looking forward to more. 3.5/5stars.(less)

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Jul 09, 2011 April rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Free Kindle download —something I've had for a long while but only recently took up reading because I saw a favorable review of it on a blog. I'm actually vacillating between giving it three stars or four, but I'll go with four because I'm feeling generous today.

First, this is a historical romance ... with horses!

And actually, the horses figure pretty heavily in this book. The main characters are really into racing them, breeding them, training them, riding them, buying and selling them, whateve...more Free Kindle download — something I've had for a long while but only recently took up reading because I saw a favorable review of it on a blog. I'm actually vacillating between giving it three stars or four, but I'll go with four because I'm feeling generous today.

First, this is a historical romance ... with horses!

And actually, the horses figure pretty heavily in this book. The main characters are really into racing them, breeding them, training them, riding them, buying and selling them, whatever. They love horses, and they're really good with them.

That by itself makes this a not-so-conventional romance. It isn't so much the romance that provides all the highs and lows in this book; the climax — or climaxes, plural — are mostly found in the horse races and in the machinations of all the big shots who deal in horses, and there are a ton of machinations.

The heroine's uncle — oh, my God, what a total jerk! — is the ideal antagonist; he's the guy you love to hate. He does everything he can to drive a wedge between the hero and the heroine, who very clearly belong together not only for their love for one another but for their mutual love of horses and complementary brilliance at training and breeding them.

Then there's the hero's best friend. Gah! With friends like that, who needs enemies? This guy is so self-serving that the outcome of all his actions and decisions become a massive gray area, at times really beneficial to the hero and his goals, at times really completely detrimental.

Meanwhile, the hero and the heroine keep fighting to stay together and to find a way to truly belong to one another, and they just keep being — curses — foiled again!

There was a point where it got a little tiring and frustrating to see them torn apart yet again, such that this book really strained at being categorized a romance in my poor little head. In a conventional romance, the author never would have delayed that "together at last!" moment for so long and after so many trials. And the hero just plain pissed me off for missing that final opportunity to get with the heroine by being a total jealous fool. Because of his foolish action there, the delay turned into years. YEARS! Were this a conventional romance, I might have thrown my Kindle against the wall for that dream deferred.

So yes, by the time they did get together, they're older and wiser, no longer as idealistic in their romance, no longer really all that fresh and hopeful. Seriously ... not quite as satisfying, which is why I wanted to give it a three. It doesn't have that standard story arc of a traditional romance. It really is something else.

But if you're NOT into the romance genre that much and like a little bit of unpredictability in your books and a lot of intrigue, a lot of back and forth between the protagonists and antagonists, and on top of that you like history and horses, then this book is definitely for you.(less)

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May 16, 2010 Mason rated it 5 of 5 stars

The love of all things equine first drew me to Emery Lee’s debut novel, “The Highest Stakes.”

The author’s ability to spin a story keep me entranced between the covers of this moving historical romance. “The Highest Stakes” is set in England during the mid-18th century. At that time, horseracing was a gentleman’s sport catering to the society of nobility.

This is the story of forbidden love, greed, hatred, revenge, and retribution with a good dose of history mixed in.

The story focuses on star-cros...more

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Apr 02, 2010 Shelly rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: horse lovers

Recommended to Shelly by: my sister

THE HIGHEST STAKES – Review by Shelly
Although I am not a big book reader, particularly in a literal sense (and this is a very big book) I am a lifelong lover of all things equine. The horse racing alone gave this novel enough mystique for me to pick it up, and although it was a big investment of my time to read, it was absolutely worth it!

I was totally engrossed by the historical aspects of this book from an equine perspective. The author fills the pages with so many fascinating facts and detai...more

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Apr 02, 2010 Dianez rated it 5 of 5 stars

What first piqued my interest in THE HIGHEST STAKES was the back cover blurb about the origins of Throroughbred racing and pedigrees, but the book proved to be so much more than a bland history of horseracing!
The book opens with a horse race described in such blow-by-blow detail, that I felt like an active participant. The suspense became so heightened I felt I had placed actual stakes on the race in which Robert Devington rode.
I was then captivated by the heartrending story between Robert, a lo...more

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Aug 08, 2010 Michelle rated it 5 of 5 stars

When I first picked up “The Highest Stakes” it was with great trepidation that I began reading. Considering I read and write Young Adult fiction, the sheer weight of the book sent me running in the other direction. Oh, and not to mention the fact that I know NOTHING about horses, old England, or racing. However, I’d seen such high praise about the book I decided to give it a try.

With limited time I planned to read fifty pages a day. By day two I’d completed the book. There’s nothing like startin...more

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Dec 11, 2010 Sheri rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

Here's another book that garnered high reviews (Amazon) but which I found less than stellar. I suppose I would classify it as more historical fiction than historical romance, although it's supposed to be a romance. The author did her research and I can't fault that part of the story. It's actually set pre-regency (1748) and the information on racing and horse breeding was interesting and thorough. My problem with the story was primarily the characters. I really didn't like any of them. There are...more

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Jul 07, 2011 Rikelle rated it 3 of 5 stars

I really wish there were half stars because this is not quite 3 stars for me. The storyntakes place in During the Georgian period, England. It centers around the star crossed love of orphaned Charlotte, who lives as a ward of her evil aristocratic uncle and Capt. Devington. The uncle is determined to prevent their match as he is only willing to allow Charlotte to marry someone that will increase his prestige, money and land. This is all set to a backdrop of the English horse culture and "gentlem...more

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Dec 15, 2012 Chanpreet rated it 3 of 5 stars

Phew! This book packs a lot into 500 pages! It starts off slow, but then picks up after about 100 pages. And once it starts, it does not stop! One thing after another, and it's all entertaining, but you can't help but wonder what;s going to happen next. And there are so many characters. I couldn't help but feel for Charlotte and Robert. Boy did they have it tough, with betrayal at every turn. I even felt sorry for Beatrix and Phillip, but only for slight moments.

It will be interesting to see ho...more

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May 18, 2012 Josee rated it 2 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Mar 23, 2011 Elizabeth Caskey rated it 1 of 5 stars

I couldn't finish it. The plot just got too convoluted and ridiculous. I was half way through and hadn't even gotten to the faked death, apparent betrayal by a supposed friend who apparently turned into the villain, illegitimate births, 8 years into the future time jumps, fake identities, and god knows what else as that's just based on reading the last few pages. Oh and let's not forget the married for 8 years virgin who refused to sleep with her husband even though she thought the love of her l...more

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Apr 01, 2010 Bridget rated it 3 of 5 stars

Charlotte grew up in her Uncle's house with her but she was nuisance. She spends a lot of her time in the stables and ends up finding a friend in a stable boy named Robert. They start out leaning on each other and eventually they fall head over heels for each other. With so many outward influences striking down the couples every move, will their relationship end in vain or will they somehow find a way to make sure they get a happy ending?

There were parts in this book that were incredible and oth...more

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Aug 25, 2012 Victoria Vane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, historical-romance

THE HIGHEST STAKES - commentary author Emery Lee

Since THE HIGHEST STAKES' release, I have done a number of guest blogs to answer questions about my creative process, why I chose Georgian England and Colonial Virginia as my settings, and how I researched the novel. I also wrote about the history of horseracing and my own passion for equines. I would now like share some of these thoughts and add some background information on the novel itself.

It is always said that one should write one's passions...more THE HIGHEST STAKES - commentary author Emery Lee

Since THE HIGHEST STAKES' release, I have done a number of guest blogs to answer questions about my creative process, why I chose Georgian England and Colonial Virginia as my settings, and how I researched the novel. I also wrote about the history of horseracing and my own passion for equines. I would now like share some of these thoughts and add some background information on the novel itself.

It is always said that one should write one's passions. In my case, this would mean converging horses, history and romance, elements that at first glance appear very much at odds, but the combination, to me, was irresistible. I wanted to create a hero, (Robert Devington) who would overcome many obstacles to find love and happiness, with his ultimate fate hanging on a horse race.

A story of star-crossed lovers and horseracing, THE HIGHEST STAKES transports the reader to the hard-drinking, vice-ridden, horseracing world of Georgian England. Fascinating and titillating, this was an era of corruption, arranged marriages, and high stakes gambling; when racing and breeding became the obsession of the uppermost elite, and a match race might replace a duel in settling a point of honor. It was also an age in which a powerful and privileged aristocracy used an outer fa��ade of honor and politesse to cover its multifarious sins.

My research in this endeavor was both extensive and diverse, going back to the early 18th century and the creation of the Thoroughbred itself. The horses (all progeny of the Byerley Turk, and the Darley and Godolphin Arabians) are seamlessly woven into the plot in which the success of Sir Garfield's racing stud is elemental to his schemes of social advancement, and a racing wager becomes the only pathway Devington sees to win his true love, Charlotte.

Charlotte Wallace is a young girl who is orphaned and forced to live with uncaring and socially ambitious relatives. Lonely and neglected, she seeks solace within her uncle's racing stables where she meets the young man with whom she share's what will become her lifelong passion- racehorses.

The young and ambitious Robert Devington is a lowly, but talented stable groom, who leaves his employ for the military in order to better himself in the eyes of Charlotte's uncle. After some time passes, Robert returns to claim Charlotte's hand in any way possible, ultimately leading to a racing wager that sets the plot in motion.

Through the fictional love story of Robert Devington and Charlottte Wallace, a tale of drama, danger, thwarted love, and retribution unfurls...

Enjoy the ride!
Emery Lee
www.authoremerylee.com
http://emerylee.wordpress.com
(less)

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Apr 14, 2010 Jennifer rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, fiction

From my blog...[return]When I received The Highest Stakes by Emery Lee I began reading the novel with trepidation, since I know very close to nothing about horses, however my worries were for naught as this novel is so much more than just an 18th century equestrian book. True, the author has clearly studied horses and there is plenty to keep those readers fascinated with all topics equestrian to be engaged in this novel, however, this novel offers so much more. The Highest Stakes is also about l...more

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Mar 29, 2010 Svea rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc

3.5 stars
Read my full review on my blog: Book Review of The Highest Stakes

With The Highest Stakes, Emery Lee has given the reader a highly detailed and researched plot. While reading this novel, there was never a time when I knew what was going to happen next. Unexpected twists kept you guessing until the very last page. There are just a couple small issues I had with the book, the first being the times when writing became a little dry with the abundant equestrian detail. The detail of the horse...more

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May 05, 2010 Amy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arcs, historical-fiction, read-in-2010

Let me start of by saying that when I accepted this book for review I was a little hesitant because I’m not really a horse person and have no knowledge of horse racing, but with my quest to broaden my historical fiction reading I thought I would give it a try. And, I am so glad I did!! Emery Lee’s debut novel The Highest Stakes was a really fabulous read.

Set in 18th century England, the main plot of the story is of Charlotte and Robert and their quest to be together despite Charlotte’s uncle’s d...more

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Apr 13, 2010 Christy B (Readin' and Dreamin') rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arcs-and-galleys, fiction, georgian, historical-fiction, historical-romance

Taking place in the 1740s and 50s in both Europe and the American colonies, The Highest Stakes is a vastly researched novel about horse racing and love.

Robert Devington desperately wants to marry Charlotte Wallace, but her uncle and guardian forbids it because, simply, Devington is a nobody.

I admit, some of the stuff in this novel flew right over my head. I know jack about horse racing and horses – I've never been near one in my life. I enjoyed the details of the racing. It was exciting. It felt...more

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Apr 08, 2010 Kathleen Kelly rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: finished

This debut novel by life-long history buff, equestrian, and romantic, Emery Lee, tells the tale of horseracing, war and unrequited love in 18th century England and Colonial Virginia. It takes place from 1742 until 1751 and tells the well researched story of lowly stable hands to upper class Lords and Ladies. This tale is full of intrigue, suspense and the ins and outs of horseracing which is very competitive amongst the upper classes in England and most anyone in colonial Virginia. Fortunes are...more

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Apr 11, 2010 Cheryl rated it 3 of 5 stars

Charlotte Wallace’s died. Her uncle is now Charlotte’s guardian. She comes to live wither uncle. Charlotte’s uncle is the owner of a very prestigious horse stable.

Robert Devington works as a stable hand for Mr. Wallace. Robert falls in love with Charlotte, not only for her beauty but for her love and care for horses.

When Charlotte’s uncle learns about Robert and Charlotte, he warns her against falling for Robert. Robert is a nobody. In order to show Charlotte and her uncle that he is just as g...more

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