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The Huntley Trilogy #1
Eulogy's Secret
Greed, prejudice and a stolen identity.
In the four weeks since her guardians' death, Eulogy Foster has lost everything. Penniless and alone she seeks the help of her estranged brother, Lord Lucien Devlin. But Devlin throws Eulogy onto the streets and the mercy of a passing stranger, Jack Huntley, who becomes an unlikely ally. As Eulogy seeks the truth behind her birth, she is drawn into the world of art and artists, where her morals are challenged and nothing is as it seems.
Jack Huntley: bitter, cynical and betrayed in love. He believes women are devious, scheming, untrustworthy creatures - and when he rescues a naïve Miss from being raped, his life is about to change forever. There is something about Miss Foster that haunts him and challenges his emotions. But despite their growing attraction, Eulogy will not share her secret, which means he cannot trust her. Caught in a deadlock, both denying their true feelings, events take a sinister turn as someone seeks to silence Eulogy...permanently.
In the four weeks since her guardians' death, Eulogy Foster has lost everything. Penniless and alone she seeks the help of her estranged brother, Lord Lucien Devlin. But Devlin throws Eulogy onto the streets and the mercy of a passing stranger, Jack Huntley, who becomes an unlikely ally. As Eulogy seeks the truth behind her birth, she is drawn into the world of art and artists, where her morals are challenged and nothing is as it seems.
Jack Huntley: bitter, cynical and betrayed in love. He believes women are devious, scheming, untrustworthy creatures - and when he rescues a naïve Miss from being raped, his life is about to change forever. There is something about Miss Foster that haunts him and challenges his emotions. But despite their growing attraction, Eulogy will not share her secret, which means he cannot trust her. Caught in a deadlock, both denying their true feelings, events take a sinister turn as someone seeks to silence Eulogy...permanently.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2011
15 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Grace Elliot
19 books156 followersGrace Elliot leads a double life as a veterinarian by day and author of historical romance by night. She believes that intelligent people need to read romance as an antidote to the modern world.
Grace lives near London and is housekeeping staff to five cats, two teenage sons, one husband and a bearded dragon.
Grace lives near London and is housekeeping staff to five cats, two teenage sons, one husband and a bearded dragon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 17, 2012
This is one of those times I curse GR for not having a 1/2 star option. "Eulogy's Secret" really is better than a 4 star but there were just a few glitches that kept it from 5 star perfection.
This book is an absolute delight to read. Wonderful, yummy, sweet, sexy... oh the list could go on and on. Eulogy's determination combined with her compassion make her a heroine everyone falls in love with. She doesn't always make wise decisions and her innocence gets her into trouble more than once but through everything, her sincere desire to do right and stand tall makes her one of the most sympathetic heroines I have read in a long time.
Jack's character is a little more complex and not quite as understandable. He is human. Haunted by a betrayal he cannot overcome, he still finds himself drawn to Eulogy. His actions and reactions are at times frustrating. While one grows to understand and love Jack, it is our heroine that cements the desire throughout the story.
In reading this book, two things really stood out for me:
1. The beautifully written characters, Elliot wrote them so well, the reader not only loves them but becomes invested in their happiness AND they stay consistent to their personalities throughout the story!
2. The sexual tension in this story was incredible!! Oh my, was it written well! I absolutely LOVED the fact that Eulogy's character was sweet yet strong, even though she was not seen as "upper-class". She stuck to her convictions even when faced with her desire and love for Jack. L.O.V.E.D. IT! It had my heart thumping and hands sweating so much more than if the author would have had Eulogy just give in. It was such a refreshing and riveting change from other HRs. I think that was also why I was faced with one of the few disappointments in the book. Her determination and the tension was written so well, it almost didn't fit where it was.
That, along with an ending that became just a little too over-melodramatic, with too many life threatening events piled on top of each other too quickly, were the only drawbacks to an otherwise exquisite read. Bravo, Ms Elliot!
June 8, 2017
"PASSION VIES WITH POSITION AND POWER, CAN LOVE CONQUER ALL?"
EULOGY
1. A laudatory speech or written tribute, especially one praising someone who has died.
2. High praise or commendation.
We discover some way into the story, that Eulogy was so named as a tribute to her mothers' nobility and self sacrifce.
.-.
This accolade is in the most part deserved, as Eulogy has had some real and valid core values and standards instilled in her by her adoptive parents. She has promised herself that she will only marry for love and in return expects that the person she marries will live by and uphold those same principles in return. She has a firm belief in the morals and integrity of her fellow man to do the right thing, give her a fair hearing and treat her with respect and dignity.
-.-
Eulogy is determined in her quest to lay claim to the family which she mistakenly anticipates will welcome her with open arms. She is far too trusting and naive in her dealings with Lucien Devlin, a bitter and twisted individual, who with his hurtful and manipulative lies, will stop at nothing to destroy both Eulogy and Jack in order to protect the false and caring public image he has built up around himself, in a desperate attempt to escape the dire and destructive course he has allowed his life to take.
-.-
Grace has given Eulogy's character a sublime sense of compassionate innocence and unquestioning loyalty, which is both touching, yet will ultimately be the cause of her near downfall. At the same time she has endowed her character with the same stubborn and intransigent streak, which will inevitably set her on a collision course with Jack, especially as she steadfastly refuses to reveal what she falsely, yet sincerely believes is an honour-bound secret she has promised and is determind to keep. One cannot help but admire Eulogy's misplaced sense of loyalty, as she constantly allows her innocence and compassion to get the better of her in any decision making process.
.-.
Jack is the youngest son of a titled family, which means that he must pay his own way in life, as the family title has by right, passed to his eldest brother. This does not however, mean that he is to sully himself too much in his chosen occupation as he is still expected to carve out for himself a place in the upper echelons of London Georgian society, uphold the good name and reputation of the family and marry within his social class, a woman of good breeding and character.
-.-
Grace has imbued the character of Jack with the same sense of stubbornness as Eulogy, although his underlying character is probably the weaker of the two, as he does rather want to `have his cake and eat it'. He doesn't reveal to Eulogy that he has already had his heart broken and been betrayed, by a lady such as she, who is considered outside of and below his social standing in society. He now thinks he has hardened his heart and considers himself bound by propriety to maintain his standing and influence within the ton, although the reality of the situation is that he cannot help but feel the need to protect Eulogy, whilst shrouding himself in a cloak of offhandedness and coolness, to hide his latent vulnerability and infatuation for her. He fights hard to deny his growing natural love for Eulogy, yet is always there when she needs him, unable to leave her feeling alone and vulnerable.
-.-
Here we then have our two protagonists and so the scene is set for a rollicking story of passion versus position and power, where they find themselves embroiled in a plot with multiple twists and turns, a real `blending' of the various storylines, culminating in a resolution to their quandry which is both dangerous and fabulous. Grace also builds the sexual tension at just the right pace to keep the reader guessing exactly when they are going to succumb to the inevitable, although this in no way overshadows the underlying storyline and plot, only serving to compliment the overall enjoyment of the story.
-.-
The story is both plot and character driven in equal measure, so that I wanted to both laugh and cry with them, yet at the same time bang their heads together, for not being able to see that, the thing which they both covet the most, is right in front of them, if only they would open their hearts and minds to the possibilities. I don't believe that this complete joining of both body and spirit is truly achieved until the final, last touching scene, as Grace continues to pour on the uncertainty and suspense, culminating in a touching and emotional finale.
.-.
If you like your historical romance laced with a touch of danger and daring, then this has to be a must for your reading list.
.-.
Another great book, even more captivating and sensual than the first, written by an author who is so obviously passionate about her subject
EULOGY
1. A laudatory speech or written tribute, especially one praising someone who has died.
2. High praise or commendation.
We discover some way into the story, that Eulogy was so named as a tribute to her mothers' nobility and self sacrifce.
.-.
This accolade is in the most part deserved, as Eulogy has had some real and valid core values and standards instilled in her by her adoptive parents. She has promised herself that she will only marry for love and in return expects that the person she marries will live by and uphold those same principles in return. She has a firm belief in the morals and integrity of her fellow man to do the right thing, give her a fair hearing and treat her with respect and dignity.
-.-
Eulogy is determined in her quest to lay claim to the family which she mistakenly anticipates will welcome her with open arms. She is far too trusting and naive in her dealings with Lucien Devlin, a bitter and twisted individual, who with his hurtful and manipulative lies, will stop at nothing to destroy both Eulogy and Jack in order to protect the false and caring public image he has built up around himself, in a desperate attempt to escape the dire and destructive course he has allowed his life to take.
-.-
Grace has given Eulogy's character a sublime sense of compassionate innocence and unquestioning loyalty, which is both touching, yet will ultimately be the cause of her near downfall. At the same time she has endowed her character with the same stubborn and intransigent streak, which will inevitably set her on a collision course with Jack, especially as she steadfastly refuses to reveal what she falsely, yet sincerely believes is an honour-bound secret she has promised and is determind to keep. One cannot help but admire Eulogy's misplaced sense of loyalty, as she constantly allows her innocence and compassion to get the better of her in any decision making process.
.-.
Jack is the youngest son of a titled family, which means that he must pay his own way in life, as the family title has by right, passed to his eldest brother. This does not however, mean that he is to sully himself too much in his chosen occupation as he is still expected to carve out for himself a place in the upper echelons of London Georgian society, uphold the good name and reputation of the family and marry within his social class, a woman of good breeding and character.
-.-
Grace has imbued the character of Jack with the same sense of stubbornness as Eulogy, although his underlying character is probably the weaker of the two, as he does rather want to `have his cake and eat it'. He doesn't reveal to Eulogy that he has already had his heart broken and been betrayed, by a lady such as she, who is considered outside of and below his social standing in society. He now thinks he has hardened his heart and considers himself bound by propriety to maintain his standing and influence within the ton, although the reality of the situation is that he cannot help but feel the need to protect Eulogy, whilst shrouding himself in a cloak of offhandedness and coolness, to hide his latent vulnerability and infatuation for her. He fights hard to deny his growing natural love for Eulogy, yet is always there when she needs him, unable to leave her feeling alone and vulnerable.
-.-
Here we then have our two protagonists and so the scene is set for a rollicking story of passion versus position and power, where they find themselves embroiled in a plot with multiple twists and turns, a real `blending' of the various storylines, culminating in a resolution to their quandry which is both dangerous and fabulous. Grace also builds the sexual tension at just the right pace to keep the reader guessing exactly when they are going to succumb to the inevitable, although this in no way overshadows the underlying storyline and plot, only serving to compliment the overall enjoyment of the story.
-.-
The story is both plot and character driven in equal measure, so that I wanted to both laugh and cry with them, yet at the same time bang their heads together, for not being able to see that, the thing which they both covet the most, is right in front of them, if only they would open their hearts and minds to the possibilities. I don't believe that this complete joining of both body and spirit is truly achieved until the final, last touching scene, as Grace continues to pour on the uncertainty and suspense, culminating in a touching and emotional finale.
.-.
If you like your historical romance laced with a touch of danger and daring, then this has to be a must for your reading list.
.-.
Another great book, even more captivating and sensual than the first, written by an author who is so obviously passionate about her subject
January 9, 2012
I knew when I needed a snack that this was going to be a good book. There are few things more charming and fantasy worthy than the Regency era in England. I'm fascinated by the strict rules that "good society" dictates. This is where Eulogy Foster first finds herself, on the outside looking in. She arrives an innocent bumpkin one night in the darkened streets of Grosvenor Square desperate to reconnect with her estranged brother. When she knocks on his door, the disarray of her person belies her words, and she's unceremoniously left to fend for herself. This is where Jack Huntley enters the scene as her unwilling rescuer. Then the true adventure begins.
The only character I truly connected with was Mrs. Featherstone. Although she played a considerably minor role, she felt the most human. Eulogy was the typical perfect woman archetype. She is full of virtue and flawless beauty with enough modesty to be unaware of the fact. Mrs. Featherstone was more of the crone archetype, wisdom, care and mothering.
I liked the story, for the most part. I did begin to grow weary of continued references to "liquefied insides" from steamy stares between the main characters and Eulogy was far too forgiving for the trust she placed in Jack that was broken more than once. I also thought the ending was rather anticlimactic, but I did love the subtle nuances of English speech and the Irish dialects in the dialogue. I also loved the vivid descriptions of Eulogy's surroundings.
I would easily recommend this book to Regency-aholics like myself and anyone that enjoys a well-written story. I'm delighted to know this isn't the only book by Grace Elliot!
The only character I truly connected with was Mrs. Featherstone. Although she played a considerably minor role, she felt the most human. Eulogy was the typical perfect woman archetype. She is full of virtue and flawless beauty with enough modesty to be unaware of the fact. Mrs. Featherstone was more of the crone archetype, wisdom, care and mothering.
I liked the story, for the most part. I did begin to grow weary of continued references to "liquefied insides" from steamy stares between the main characters and Eulogy was far too forgiving for the trust she placed in Jack that was broken more than once. I also thought the ending was rather anticlimactic, but I did love the subtle nuances of English speech and the Irish dialects in the dialogue. I also loved the vivid descriptions of Eulogy's surroundings.
I would easily recommend this book to Regency-aholics like myself and anyone that enjoys a well-written story. I'm delighted to know this isn't the only book by Grace Elliot!
January 2, 2012
Reading romance novels isn't my highest priority but they are like a Snicker's bar - sometimes one is a neat, fast little treat.
Eulogy's Secret by Grace Elliott is a mini Snickers bar. Book One of the Huntley Trilogy, Eulogy's Secret is a lovely little romance set in regency England. On a dark, frightening night, a little country mouse named Eulogy, in stained, travel worn clothing shows up on the front steps of Lord Devlin's home in London. Of course, she is turned away, for in that time, members of the English aristocracy never received unknowns or their social inferiors at the front door. As she leaves, the devastated Eulogy is attacked and robbed of all her money and her very important papers. Just as she may be relieved of something even more important, her virginity and life, she is reluctantly rescued by Jack Huntley, a gentleman who bears a great deal of ill will toward Lord Devlin. Unable to leave the destitute young woman on the streets, he takes her to stay with a decent woman, hopefully discharging his duty. When he returns to check on her, he finds her to be extraordinarily beautiful, and although he is resistant, he starts to desire her more each time he sees her. There are obstacles in the way: she is a nobody, has a secret relationship with the despised Lord Devlin whose details she refuses to reveal, and although the attraction is mutual, she does not succumb to his charms. Instead, in a twist that helps reveal Eulogy's family origins, Eulogy becomes the model and muse to a formerly brilliant painter, once represented by Jack Huntley, whose livelihood comes from selling fine art to the aristocracy.
The writing is lovely and Elliot writes well enough to put you in England as the ton whirls around you. The love scenes are not overly graphic but they are engaging. Eulogy's Secret will have a great deal of appeal to those who love romance novels set in late 29th century England.
During the course of the novel, Jack Huntley is revealed as one of the two younger sons of a noble family. The older brother, the titled Lord Huntley is a rake and references are made to the youngest brother, away on a secret mission for the Crown, setting the stage for the next two novels in the Huntley trilogy. Once you've had this mini Snickers, you will want the next two!
Eulogy's Secret by Grace Elliott is a mini Snickers bar. Book One of the Huntley Trilogy, Eulogy's Secret is a lovely little romance set in regency England. On a dark, frightening night, a little country mouse named Eulogy, in stained, travel worn clothing shows up on the front steps of Lord Devlin's home in London. Of course, she is turned away, for in that time, members of the English aristocracy never received unknowns or their social inferiors at the front door. As she leaves, the devastated Eulogy is attacked and robbed of all her money and her very important papers. Just as she may be relieved of something even more important, her virginity and life, she is reluctantly rescued by Jack Huntley, a gentleman who bears a great deal of ill will toward Lord Devlin. Unable to leave the destitute young woman on the streets, he takes her to stay with a decent woman, hopefully discharging his duty. When he returns to check on her, he finds her to be extraordinarily beautiful, and although he is resistant, he starts to desire her more each time he sees her. There are obstacles in the way: she is a nobody, has a secret relationship with the despised Lord Devlin whose details she refuses to reveal, and although the attraction is mutual, she does not succumb to his charms. Instead, in a twist that helps reveal Eulogy's family origins, Eulogy becomes the model and muse to a formerly brilliant painter, once represented by Jack Huntley, whose livelihood comes from selling fine art to the aristocracy.
The writing is lovely and Elliot writes well enough to put you in England as the ton whirls around you. The love scenes are not overly graphic but they are engaging. Eulogy's Secret will have a great deal of appeal to those who love romance novels set in late 29th century England.
During the course of the novel, Jack Huntley is revealed as one of the two younger sons of a noble family. The older brother, the titled Lord Huntley is a rake and references are made to the youngest brother, away on a secret mission for the Crown, setting the stage for the next two novels in the Huntley trilogy. Once you've had this mini Snickers, you will want the next two!
December 18, 2011
Eulogy' Secret is the first in the Huntley Trilogy written by Grace Elliot.
Suddenly Eulogy Foster finds herself on her own following the death of her beloved Guardians. With the knowledge of her birth parents she heads to London to meet her estranged brother, Lord Lucien Devlin. Never having been to the City before, she is very unprepared to what she find on her arrival there.
Thrown out and denied by her own brother, she is attacked, robbed and without the help of a stranger, god know what would have happened to next.
Maybe Jack Huntly was in the wrong place at the right time, but coming to the aid of this damsel in distress is about to change his whole life. If only he could understand what secrets Eulogy is keeping and let him in.
Falling for Jack, Eulogy needs to be certain that he loves her for who he believes she is not who she actually is.
Will Eulogy's brother acknowledge her and present her to society or is there something that her brother is trying to hide? Will Lucien Devlin stop at nothing to get Eulogy out of his life? Can Jack and Eulogy trust each other enough or will their secrets force them apart?
Set in the Regency period of England, Grace has written a fantastic historical novel (and by now everyone who reads my blog will know how much I enjoy these!) Eulogy is a very strong young lady who has to fight many battles to get to where she wants to be in life. Jack is a typical stubborn man of his time, but with a much deeper and gentle side that he desperately wants to share with Eulogy but something is always holding him back and stopping him taking that next step forward. Wonderful connection between them and also the gorgeous relationship that Eulogy develops with Mr Farrell.
Some very spicy, but perfectly written sexual tension through out which keeps you gripped on a will they won't they but also with the frightful happenings going on around them!
A great read and I certainly will be wanting to read the following two books in this trilogy.
Thank you so much Grace for sending me a copy of Eulogy's Secret i really enjoyed it!
You can follow Grace on twitter @grace_elliot
Suddenly Eulogy Foster finds herself on her own following the death of her beloved Guardians. With the knowledge of her birth parents she heads to London to meet her estranged brother, Lord Lucien Devlin. Never having been to the City before, she is very unprepared to what she find on her arrival there.
Thrown out and denied by her own brother, she is attacked, robbed and without the help of a stranger, god know what would have happened to next.
Maybe Jack Huntly was in the wrong place at the right time, but coming to the aid of this damsel in distress is about to change his whole life. If only he could understand what secrets Eulogy is keeping and let him in.
Falling for Jack, Eulogy needs to be certain that he loves her for who he believes she is not who she actually is.
Will Eulogy's brother acknowledge her and present her to society or is there something that her brother is trying to hide? Will Lucien Devlin stop at nothing to get Eulogy out of his life? Can Jack and Eulogy trust each other enough or will their secrets force them apart?
Set in the Regency period of England, Grace has written a fantastic historical novel (and by now everyone who reads my blog will know how much I enjoy these!) Eulogy is a very strong young lady who has to fight many battles to get to where she wants to be in life. Jack is a typical stubborn man of his time, but with a much deeper and gentle side that he desperately wants to share with Eulogy but something is always holding him back and stopping him taking that next step forward. Wonderful connection between them and also the gorgeous relationship that Eulogy develops with Mr Farrell.
Some very spicy, but perfectly written sexual tension through out which keeps you gripped on a will they won't they but also with the frightful happenings going on around them!
A great read and I certainly will be wanting to read the following two books in this trilogy.
Thank you so much Grace for sending me a copy of Eulogy's Secret i really enjoyed it!
You can follow Grace on twitter @grace_elliot
February 5, 2012
Eulogy’s Secret by Grace Elliot
Quality romance writing. That phrase is often an oxymoron. Grace Elliot’s novel “Eulogy’s Secret” proves that love and romance can be presented in a quality and imaginative prose. Eulogy, a beautiful young woman raised in the countryside of England, comes to London to find her sole surviving relative. Her life quickly takes new directions when she is accosted by robbers, rescued by Lord Jack Huntley, and set on a path toward a future she could never have imagined.
The story is beautifully set in the turn of the century England where aristocrats ruled the economy, the society, and frankly, much of the world. Class structure deeply divided the common from the upper with spoken and unspoken rules building walls of separation. Into this maze steps Eulogy who is gentle, respectful, yet fiercely independent. She is a step toward modern social reform, while still being part of the historical footprint of England. Her ability to walk this precarious tightrope is a credit to her tenacity and moral structure while still allowing the vulnerability of a young woman’s desire to shine through.
Grace Elliot deftly brings the reader into a historical era foreign to most modern observers. While some of the language is difficult to grasp, she writes with such beauty and creativity, one never feels lost. Obviously a writer who thoroughly researches her material before bringing her characters to life, she provides a smorgasbord of emotions, images and romance from which all can feast.
I highly recommend “Eulogy” to all who enjoy quality writing with a beautiful story. Five stars out of five stars with one more for just being a beautiful writer. I purchased this book and have no personal contact with the author.
Quality romance writing. That phrase is often an oxymoron. Grace Elliot’s novel “Eulogy’s Secret” proves that love and romance can be presented in a quality and imaginative prose. Eulogy, a beautiful young woman raised in the countryside of England, comes to London to find her sole surviving relative. Her life quickly takes new directions when she is accosted by robbers, rescued by Lord Jack Huntley, and set on a path toward a future she could never have imagined.
The story is beautifully set in the turn of the century England where aristocrats ruled the economy, the society, and frankly, much of the world. Class structure deeply divided the common from the upper with spoken and unspoken rules building walls of separation. Into this maze steps Eulogy who is gentle, respectful, yet fiercely independent. She is a step toward modern social reform, while still being part of the historical footprint of England. Her ability to walk this precarious tightrope is a credit to her tenacity and moral structure while still allowing the vulnerability of a young woman’s desire to shine through.
Grace Elliot deftly brings the reader into a historical era foreign to most modern observers. While some of the language is difficult to grasp, she writes with such beauty and creativity, one never feels lost. Obviously a writer who thoroughly researches her material before bringing her characters to life, she provides a smorgasbord of emotions, images and romance from which all can feast.
I highly recommend “Eulogy” to all who enjoy quality writing with a beautiful story. Five stars out of five stars with one more for just being a beautiful writer. I purchased this book and have no personal contact with the author.
November 25, 2011
EULOGY’S SECRET by Grace Elliot is an exciting historical romance set in Regency Englaind. The first in “The Huntley”triology. What a delightful story of Eulogy Foster and Jack Huntley. Eulogy,a country lass,who after her parents death is left penniless,with a secret that could get her killed,goest to England to find her long unknown brother and finds the love of her life,or will she find only heartbreak. Jack is handsome,bitter from a past lost love,cynical,and betrayal comes across Eulogy and rescues her from rape and murder only to find she is keeping a secret and he is falling in love with her. “Eulogy’s Secret” is a must read with betrayal,secrets,trust,healing,romance,love,a bit of sensuality,sexual tension,passion,forgiveness,devious brother,friendship,and finding your place in the world. Appearances can be deceiving in “Eulogy’s Secret”. I would highly recommend “Eulogy’s Secret” for any reader who enjoys Regency England, and the ton of England you will not be disappointed. I can hardly wait for the next installment. Eulogy and Jack’s story will have your returning pages,and holding your breath for these two young lovers. A quick,fun,sexy read. Received for review from the author. Details can be found at the author’s website,blog.at Amazon and My Book Addiction Reviews.
May 10, 2016
2 1/2 stars. I read the second book in this trilogy, Hope's Betrayal first and I really liked it. It was a relatively clean romance that fit the time period. I was expecting this one to be the same way, however there is a pretty detailed sex scene in this book that I wasn't really expecting, and it happened before they were married which I honestly didn't feel fit with Eulogy's character after everything else that happened in the book.
I found the love interest, Jack to be hard to like at times. What he felt for Eulogy seemed to be based mostly on lust. He also jumped to some big conclusions and made assumptions that were unfair. And I don't know why he couldn't have figured out that Devlin was a relative. There was also a lot of non-communication which drove the plot and got old because there was really no reason for some of it to drag on as long as it did.
I found the love interest, Jack to be hard to like at times. What he felt for Eulogy seemed to be based mostly on lust. He also jumped to some big conclusions and made assumptions that were unfair. And I don't know why he couldn't have figured out that Devlin was a relative. There was also a lot of non-communication which drove the plot and got old because there was really no reason for some of it to drag on as long as it did.
May 30, 2012
Eulogy’s Secret: Huntley Trilogy #1 by Grace Elliot
This story was has a full cast of characters that stay with you long after you have closed the book. They all come alive in the pages and you are rooting for all of them.
Our heroine is Eulogy Foster; she just came to London from the country looking for her brother, her last living relative. She is the youngest living child of Lord and Lady Devlin; Lady Gabriella Delvin gave her to the attending physician when she was born to save her from her abuse husband who would look on a daughter as a weak liability. Now Lord and Lady Devlin are dead, and her foster parents are also gone, her foster mother telling her the truth just before she died, leaving Eulogy looking for someone to call family. Jack Huntley is the youngest son of three, he has made his name as a seller and buyer of fine arts, he his very logical minded and his heart is closed off from all lying women – which to him are all women. Lucien Devlin is Eulogy’s brother, and Jack’s worst enemy. He is a bully and a manipulator who is broke and trying to marry an heiress and doesn’t need a weak little sister showing up in his life right now. Tristan Ferrell is a has been artist that has spent the last twenty or so years in a bottle, taken care of faithfully by his housekeeper, Mrs. Prudence Featherstone who is as deeply devoted to her ginger cat, Gilbert.
These characters come off the page as real three dimensional people with real problems and real fears. I admit there a couple of times that Jack was being such a typical male, leaping before looking, accusing before listening, and walking away after listening to a known liar without talking to Eulogy that I truly wanted to hurt him. Eulogy handled everything with a grace and ease that fit the way she was raised and the title she was born into. This book wouldn’t let me put it down, it kept me enthralled until the end. Through the climax which rolled into the final scenes with a grace and ease of winter rolling into spring. Can a young woman model for an artist and keep her virtue? Can a man who has been humiliated in front of the ton by a woman trust his heart with another? Eulogy is a country nobody, since her brother won’t claim her, how would this hurt his ability to deal the ton and can he risk it? Find out all these answers and more as you about Eulogy’s Secret, as wonderfully penned tale of love, secrets, and lies. Ms. Elliot truly understands the Regency period in England’s history and the little rules and quirks of the people of the time. Pick this up and read it for a full color, existing ride. Five stars to the beginning of the Huntley Trilogy.
This story was has a full cast of characters that stay with you long after you have closed the book. They all come alive in the pages and you are rooting for all of them.
Our heroine is Eulogy Foster; she just came to London from the country looking for her brother, her last living relative. She is the youngest living child of Lord and Lady Devlin; Lady Gabriella Delvin gave her to the attending physician when she was born to save her from her abuse husband who would look on a daughter as a weak liability. Now Lord and Lady Devlin are dead, and her foster parents are also gone, her foster mother telling her the truth just before she died, leaving Eulogy looking for someone to call family. Jack Huntley is the youngest son of three, he has made his name as a seller and buyer of fine arts, he his very logical minded and his heart is closed off from all lying women – which to him are all women. Lucien Devlin is Eulogy’s brother, and Jack’s worst enemy. He is a bully and a manipulator who is broke and trying to marry an heiress and doesn’t need a weak little sister showing up in his life right now. Tristan Ferrell is a has been artist that has spent the last twenty or so years in a bottle, taken care of faithfully by his housekeeper, Mrs. Prudence Featherstone who is as deeply devoted to her ginger cat, Gilbert.
These characters come off the page as real three dimensional people with real problems and real fears. I admit there a couple of times that Jack was being such a typical male, leaping before looking, accusing before listening, and walking away after listening to a known liar without talking to Eulogy that I truly wanted to hurt him. Eulogy handled everything with a grace and ease that fit the way she was raised and the title she was born into. This book wouldn’t let me put it down, it kept me enthralled until the end. Through the climax which rolled into the final scenes with a grace and ease of winter rolling into spring. Can a young woman model for an artist and keep her virtue? Can a man who has been humiliated in front of the ton by a woman trust his heart with another? Eulogy is a country nobody, since her brother won’t claim her, how would this hurt his ability to deal the ton and can he risk it? Find out all these answers and more as you about Eulogy’s Secret, as wonderfully penned tale of love, secrets, and lies. Ms. Elliot truly understands the Regency period in England’s history and the little rules and quirks of the people of the time. Pick this up and read it for a full color, existing ride. Five stars to the beginning of the Huntley Trilogy.
January 22, 2012
A delightful romance set in Regency England, Eulogy's Secret is alive with details and setting that take you back in time to a society ruled by class structure and nobility. Eulogy's innocence, charm, wit and determination make her the perfect woman to enthrall the independent, savvy, and suspicious Jack Huntley.
Recently bereaved of her adoptive parents, Eulogy Foster travels alone to London to seek her family. She is immediately placed in danger when her only brother refuses to acknowledge her. Her troubles spur the protective instinct of the handsome, debonair Jack Huntley, who takes an interest in her well-being.
The story, while being somewhat predictable, is charming and paced quickly, yet full of descriptive details and scintillating dialogue, especially between Eulogy and her two protectors, Mrs. Featherstone and Mr. Farrell.
Suffice it to say, good eventually overcomes evil, and the reader is rewarded with a happy, but somewhat poignant ending, with the villain getting his just desserts.
Disclosure: This review was part of the WoMen's Lit Cafe Review process. They require honesty. I received the e-book free as part of the program, and I do not know the author personally
Recently bereaved of her adoptive parents, Eulogy Foster travels alone to London to seek her family. She is immediately placed in danger when her only brother refuses to acknowledge her. Her troubles spur the protective instinct of the handsome, debonair Jack Huntley, who takes an interest in her well-being.
The story, while being somewhat predictable, is charming and paced quickly, yet full of descriptive details and scintillating dialogue, especially between Eulogy and her two protectors, Mrs. Featherstone and Mr. Farrell.
Suffice it to say, good eventually overcomes evil, and the reader is rewarded with a happy, but somewhat poignant ending, with the villain getting his just desserts.
Disclosure: This review was part of the WoMen's Lit Cafe Review process. They require honesty. I received the e-book free as part of the program, and I do not know the author personally
January 9, 2012
This is the first novel I've read by Grace Elliot, and it has made me want to read more of her books. The storyline, characters and setting all came together to produce a wonderful story about a young girl, Eulogy, trying to find her place in the world after facing a tragedy. And yet, as she searches, she shows how strong-willed she is, how big her heart is, and how loyal she is. The hero of the book, Jack, seems almost her opposite, with his stubbornness, hard-to-trust attitude, yet readers can tell right away that is only a facade he hides behind. Together, they make a wonderful pair that compels the reader to read on just to see where things go with this interesting pair. And where they go leads the reader on an emotional roller coaster that twists and turns throughout the story, leaving the reader almost as breathless as the characters themselves. I look forward to reading more of Elliot's books in the future, especially the next book in the Huntley series.
January 14, 2012
This book is absolutely captivating and the essence of romance. I was hooked from the first page and unable to put it down until the very end. Grace Elliot’s writing is filled with so much emotion, and her characters are complex but relatable. It’s very easy to identify with the hero of the story, Jack Huntley. He guards his heart because he cannot stand the pain of being humiliated and betrayed by love again. The heroine, Eulogy, must juggle a family secret that could change her life and her true feelings for Huntley.
This story is full of passion and mystery, yet at its core, I think it’s one of the sweetest love stories I’ve read in awhile. The roadblocks in the relationship do nothing but strengthen the love of the main characters as well as make for an engaging and intriguing read. My love for the historical romance genre is definitely growing thanks to amazing authors like Grace Elliot.
This story is full of passion and mystery, yet at its core, I think it’s one of the sweetest love stories I’ve read in awhile. The roadblocks in the relationship do nothing but strengthen the love of the main characters as well as make for an engaging and intriguing read. My love for the historical romance genre is definitely growing thanks to amazing authors like Grace Elliot.
January 1, 2012
What can I say about Eulogy’s Secret? I can say WOW! Grace Elliot has out done herself with this first book in her Huntley Trilogy. Jack Huntley is a loner. Once bitten, twice shy, he is not looking for someone to settle down with. Then comes Eulogy Foster, a damsel in distress. Fortunately Jack rises to the occasion and comes to Eulogy’s aid. But Eulogy has a secret. And as this secret is kept, the danger grows.
I enjoyed the suspense that Ms. Elliot was able to build with this story. Would Jack give in to his feelings or would he allow the pressures of society to manipulate him?
Grace is a master at creating sexual tension between two characters and this book is no different. She continues to use vivid descriptions in her novels making the reader feel as if they are actually living in the time period.
Now my only issue is, when do I get the sequel!
I enjoyed the suspense that Ms. Elliot was able to build with this story. Would Jack give in to his feelings or would he allow the pressures of society to manipulate him?
Grace is a master at creating sexual tension between two characters and this book is no different. She continues to use vivid descriptions in her novels making the reader feel as if they are actually living in the time period.
Now my only issue is, when do I get the sequel!
August 20, 2013
I liked this book until the end. the story was well written and captivating. I did not like the way that Miss Foster decided that her virtue didn't matter, which seemed funny in a non humorous way, because she was extremely worried about her reputation being damaged in any fashion throughout the whole story. I won't continue to read books, when the characters loose all sensibility and morality in the face of temptation.
April 5, 2012
one more mention of "mossy green eyes" (yeah, I got it!), hulking chests, tingling groins and parted lips and my brain would have bleed.
A e-book "Harlequin Romance". I guess I needed mindless reading and this was sure the book. Fun (and funny) but not something I could take a steady diet of :-)
A e-book "Harlequin Romance". I guess I needed mindless reading and this was sure the book. Fun (and funny) but not something I could take a steady diet of :-)
June 24, 2012
3.5. Eulogy's Secret takes place during a time in England that I really enjoy, the Regency. It is the first book in a trilogy called The Huntley Trilogy. You really get a good sense of place in this book. England was going through a lot of changes during this time and you can feel the energy of London pulsing throughout the story. Eulogy is a newcomer to the city of London so we get to see the city through her eyes, which is very cool. I absolutely love London and I love reading about the city throughout the years.
This book is a romance but with only one real steamy scene (for those sensitive to that sort of thing). I loved the romance in this book. It's sort of unexpected in a way. You have Eulogy, a newcomer to London, who is hiding a deep, dark secret about her family. Huntley falls for her even though he's been burned by women in the past. Eulogy and Huntley fall deeply for each other. I liked the romance because you can see how much they really love each other. There is a ton of sexual tension between Eulogy and Huntley at first. It was interesting to see how everything unfolds between them in that respect. You keep waiting for things to fall together and then they don't but not to give too much away, everything falls together.
The mystery of Eulogy's origins definitely kept me reading. Elliot does a great job of weaving in little details of the mystery so you can start to put things together. She does it in such a way that you really want to continue reading to see what happens next. As I said before, this book is the first in a trilogy and I would definitely like to hear how things continue to unfold for all of the characters in the book!
Bottom line: Eulogy's Secret was a fun, light read with a little bit of mystery and a little bit of romance.
This book is a romance but with only one real steamy scene (for those sensitive to that sort of thing). I loved the romance in this book. It's sort of unexpected in a way. You have Eulogy, a newcomer to London, who is hiding a deep, dark secret about her family. Huntley falls for her even though he's been burned by women in the past. Eulogy and Huntley fall deeply for each other. I liked the romance because you can see how much they really love each other. There is a ton of sexual tension between Eulogy and Huntley at first. It was interesting to see how everything unfolds between them in that respect. You keep waiting for things to fall together and then they don't but not to give too much away, everything falls together.
The mystery of Eulogy's origins definitely kept me reading. Elliot does a great job of weaving in little details of the mystery so you can start to put things together. She does it in such a way that you really want to continue reading to see what happens next. As I said before, this book is the first in a trilogy and I would definitely like to hear how things continue to unfold for all of the characters in the book!
Bottom line: Eulogy's Secret was a fun, light read with a little bit of mystery and a little bit of romance.
March 21, 2012
What a wonderful world, if not a trifle scandalous, Eulogy's Secret encased me in! I was breathless with anticipation from beginning to end and felt so many emotions as I continued on the journey.
Eulogy lost everything and the only person she knew to turn to was her brother - a brother she didn't grow up with, who didn't know she existed. However, he turned her away and it set the stage for a story which would compel me to continue reading its pages, especially knowing that Eulogy wasn't the type to back down without a fight.
This book has it all: love, hate, jealousy, greed, infatuation, lust, disillusionment, salvation, forgiveness - you name it! If you want a story that will truly take you to another time and place, and grip you to the end, Eulogy's Secret is one book you must read.
Eulogy lost everything and the only person she knew to turn to was her brother - a brother she didn't grow up with, who didn't know she existed. However, he turned her away and it set the stage for a story which would compel me to continue reading its pages, especially knowing that Eulogy wasn't the type to back down without a fight.
This book has it all: love, hate, jealousy, greed, infatuation, lust, disillusionment, salvation, forgiveness - you name it! If you want a story that will truly take you to another time and place, and grip you to the end, Eulogy's Secret is one book you must read.
February 25, 2012
Eulogy's Secret is the tale of Eulogy who turns up in town and loses her possessions and papers to prove who she is. She gets taken in by someone who knew her secret mother (purely because she looks like her) and the story is how she goes about proving herself. Since this is a romance, it is also how she falls in love with a man outside her station and all the smouldering looks and touches that come with that.
I'm not really one for this kind of romance, but I've tried a few recently and I think it will become a secret pleasure of mine.
I was drawn into the story and enjoyed the writing. Nothing was too over the top and ridiculous.
I'm not really one for this kind of romance, but I've tried a few recently and I think it will become a secret pleasure of mine.
I was drawn into the story and enjoyed the writing. Nothing was too over the top and ridiculous.
June 8, 2012
Some early grammatical problems almost deterred me from continuing with this one, but it soon had me engaged enough to keep reading. I'm glad I did! It was a quick, enjoyable read. The sexual tension was well-written, if a bit abruptly begun, and the characters were endearing enough.
All in all, I enjoyed this one, though I'm not sure it'd stand up to a second reading.
All in all, I enjoyed this one, though I'm not sure it'd stand up to a second reading.
August 11, 2012
For the most part I really enjoyed this book; romantic and cute; liked all the accents and the dichotomy in family relations (and the relationships in general). My biggest criticisms for the books are the character are fairly one dimensional. The good characters (which is pretty much everyone in the book) are good, honest, caring, kind, generous, etc; while the (one) bad character is very bad: lying, scheming, manipulative, abusive, vengeful, violent, etc. Also, it really annoyed me that on at least two occasions Eulogy uses her abandonment as weapon, or I guess shield, against Jack. While I understand this was a lie she has been fed all her life, she did grow up with two loving, caring parents who sound like they gave her one of the best childhoods possible. Other than the lack of dimension, characters were likable and at least to some degree realistic in that they all have flaws. Eulogy's lack of trust and naivety also bothered me on multiple occasions, especially as she was warned by multiple trustworthy characters.
Trust, or lack thereof, was a big issue in this book. Story is pretty simple, lots of romance. There was a bit at the end that sort of surprised me, but other than that things are resolved pretty easily (no surprise there considering how simple everything is in this book). Glad it was free, but still a decent read.
Trust, or lack thereof, was a big issue in this book. Story is pretty simple, lots of romance. There was a bit at the end that sort of surprised me, but other than that things are resolved pretty easily (no surprise there considering how simple everything is in this book). Glad it was free, but still a decent read.
June 24, 2012
So, this novel is a very sweet and sappy romance. And it made me happy. You know, the feel-good, love-conquers-all kind of happy...
This book starts out with Eulogy at Lucien's doorstep attempting to find shelter at her long, lost brother's home. And the things that could go wrong when a lady is by herself in old-time London (note the historical setting) tends to go wrong. And then we meet Jack. And they're both smitten with each other. While I would have loved to see more of the transition from acquaintance to in-love, I still enjoyed the emotions that played between the two throughout the novel. And this story just takes off from there.
We see a lot of decisions going wrong and misunderstood statements between Eulogy and Jack. But love does conquer all in the end. And while I may not have that kind of sappy romance in the real life, it's always fun to read about. Who should read this? Anyone looking for a happy, historical romance read...
This book starts out with Eulogy at Lucien's doorstep attempting to find shelter at her long, lost brother's home. And the things that could go wrong when a lady is by herself in old-time London (note the historical setting) tends to go wrong. And then we meet Jack. And they're both smitten with each other. While I would have loved to see more of the transition from acquaintance to in-love, I still enjoyed the emotions that played between the two throughout the novel. And this story just takes off from there.
We see a lot of decisions going wrong and misunderstood statements between Eulogy and Jack. But love does conquer all in the end. And while I may not have that kind of sappy romance in the real life, it's always fun to read about. Who should read this? Anyone looking for a happy, historical romance read...
September 16, 2012
Another title from the brilliant Grace Elliot - book one of the Huntley Trilogy, Eulogy's Secret. A story of a seemingly innocent and naïve, but beautiful county girl, who travels to London after the death of her adoptive parents to seek out her real brother. Mugged on arrival she loses everything of value but quickly falls in love with the man that saves her from the muggers. Her rescuer, Jack Huntley, a member of high society London and landed gentry rapidly falls in love with this mysterious country girl. A gripping story of forbidden love that survives despite adversity and flourishes once Eulogy tells Jack her secret. I particularly love the way this author develops her characters and finished this book feeling as thought I had made new friends. This is beautiful and incredibly well researched story, what Ms Elliot doesn't know about British History isn't worth knowing.
March 9, 2012
As I read Eulogy's Secret, I was caught from the start, but it faltered toward the end for me. Mostly I wished that the author would have extended the story. I felt rushed as we jumped from one aspect in the novel to another. Overall, it was a pleasant read and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys simplicity. :)
July 17, 2012
I enjoyed this immensely, and could barely put it down. Well written with interesting and exciting characters who at first deny their feelings. Secrets, pride, lies and deception abound with passion, love and desire. The author really set the scene and the reader was drawn in, desperate to find out what happened next. Would highly recommend.
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August 23, 2012This book was quite enjoyable and relatable in some aspects. While taking place in a different time, it boils down to two people who like each other but are afraid to admit it to themselves due to past experiences. While the character Eulogy can be a little naive and week, she ends up being someone to admire for her gumption.
June 5, 2016
This book was seriously problematic. The author honestly seemed to think that Eulogy was a pretty name for the main character. She cannot have known what it means!! There were other vocabulary errors that make me think that she needs a new editor. The plot was ok, but I couldn't look past the errors.
December 16, 2011
I enjoyed this story. It was a bit predictable, but I still liked it.
Want to read
January 2, 2012Free Kindle Book 1/1/12.
May 19, 2015
This was a good book but had a little more romantic details than I care to read...
July 17, 2012
Good book. I found myself heavy skimming at the end, feeling a little bored and ready for it to be over.
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