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THE HOUSEPARTY
He was so coldly handsome, it was positively criminal. Why, his icy blue eyes made Elizabeth's heart flutter at their very first meeting. No doubt about it, the rumors were right: this stony-faced soldier, Michael Fraser, was a traitor, a spy, a scurrilous French agent. Yet her hapless cousin had invited him for the weekend! What mad mischief might this cur cook up in the course of a three-day houseparty full of distinguished guests? Now Elizabeth is surely scandalized, for she hears that this stealthy spy has been querying the servants about her. Her own brother is off on a secret mission against Bonaparte--that must be the reason for Michael's monstrous attentions. If only his gaze weren't so penetrating, his voice so hypnotic, his kiss so treasonously sweet. She never imagined a French agent could be this dangerous!
214 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 12, 1985
13 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Anne Stuart
205 books2,070 followersAnne Stuart is a grandmaster of the genre, winner of Romance Writers of America's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, survivor of more than thirty-five years in the romance business, and still just keeps getting better.
Her first novel was Barrett's Hill, a gothic romance published by Ballantine in 1974 when Anne had just turned 25. Since then she's written more gothics, regencies, romantic suspense, romantic adventure, series romance, suspense, historical romance, paranormal and mainstream contemporary romance for publishers such as Doubleday, Harlequin, Silhouette, Avon, Zebra, St. Martins Press, Berkley, Dell, Pocket Books and Fawcett.
She’s won numerous awards, appeared on most bestseller lists, and speaks all over the country. Her general outrageousness has gotten her on Entertainment Tonight, as well as in Vogue, People, USA Today, Women’s Day and countless other national newspapers and magazines.
When she’s not traveling, she’s at home in Northern Vermont with her luscious husband of thirty-six years, an empty nest, three cats, four sewing machines, and one Springer Spaniel, and when she’s not working she’s watching movies, listening to rock and roll (preferably Japanese) and spending far too much time quilting.
Anne Stuart also writes as Kristina Douglas.
Her first novel was Barrett's Hill, a gothic romance published by Ballantine in 1974 when Anne had just turned 25. Since then she's written more gothics, regencies, romantic suspense, romantic adventure, series romance, suspense, historical romance, paranormal and mainstream contemporary romance for publishers such as Doubleday, Harlequin, Silhouette, Avon, Zebra, St. Martins Press, Berkley, Dell, Pocket Books and Fawcett.
She’s won numerous awards, appeared on most bestseller lists, and speaks all over the country. Her general outrageousness has gotten her on Entertainment Tonight, as well as in Vogue, People, USA Today, Women’s Day and countless other national newspapers and magazines.
When she’s not traveling, she’s at home in Northern Vermont with her luscious husband of thirty-six years, an empty nest, three cats, four sewing machines, and one Springer Spaniel, and when she’s not working she’s watching movies, listening to rock and roll (preferably Japanese) and spending far too much time quilting.
Anne Stuart also writes as Kristina Douglas.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 23, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Elizabeth has been convinced to attend a houseparty with her vicar brother but they are unaware that it will be a hotbed of spy activity. A list identifying the names of English spies in France is on the loose in the house and everyone is suspect, especially the dark and handsome Captain Michael Fraser. There are rumors that he is a traitor but nothing has been proven so far. Elizabeth has an instant dislike for the infuriating captain but also finds herself inexplicably drawn to him. It will be a weekend of intrigue and insights and Elizabeth must decide whom to trust before it is too late.
A quick read of mystery and machinations, The Houseparty was a fun ensemble read. Originally published in 1985, it is a great book to reissue as the story manages to avoid any dated feelings. There was an abundance of characters that occasionally veered into too much of a handful but ultimately end up being the strong point of the story. From the too good-looking for his own good brother, slightly evil mother, her sinisterly flamboyant son, the overly sexual woman of the world widow, gruff military men, and a sprinkling of red-herrings, the characters sweep you along on who’s the real baddie ride. The actual story thread of spy stratagem was a bit confusing and wasn't quite fleshed out but the characters' personalities filled in the cracks.
Elizabeth was our leader through the story and while she could be called precocious and full of gumption, she also could be called bratty and TSTL. There was many times where Elizabeth blindly and bull headedly charged into situations that made her annoying to follow along with. She was smart in figuring things out and knowing the score but not so great in butting out of situations she had no business in. Michael was a little more lighthearted than your average brooding hero and even though I didn't get to see him as much as I would have preferred, I liked him. Most of what we see of Michael is him trying to keep Elizabeth from possibly dangerous situations and ruining his mission; he had somewhat of a limited role. Together they have tit for tat conversations that were entertaining but their interactions were limited. I wanted to see them together so much more, I'm not sure their relationship felt completely solid to me.
If you're looking for a cleaner, quicker read with many and varied characters and willing to accept a wobbly spy plot, and a scant romance, Anne Stuart is a quality writer to whittle away a few hours to.
Elizabeth has been convinced to attend a houseparty with her vicar brother but they are unaware that it will be a hotbed of spy activity. A list identifying the names of English spies in France is on the loose in the house and everyone is suspect, especially the dark and handsome Captain Michael Fraser. There are rumors that he is a traitor but nothing has been proven so far. Elizabeth has an instant dislike for the infuriating captain but also finds herself inexplicably drawn to him. It will be a weekend of intrigue and insights and Elizabeth must decide whom to trust before it is too late.
A quick read of mystery and machinations, The Houseparty was a fun ensemble read. Originally published in 1985, it is a great book to reissue as the story manages to avoid any dated feelings. There was an abundance of characters that occasionally veered into too much of a handful but ultimately end up being the strong point of the story. From the too good-looking for his own good brother, slightly evil mother, her sinisterly flamboyant son, the overly sexual woman of the world widow, gruff military men, and a sprinkling of red-herrings, the characters sweep you along on who’s the real baddie ride. The actual story thread of spy stratagem was a bit confusing and wasn't quite fleshed out but the characters' personalities filled in the cracks.
Elizabeth was our leader through the story and while she could be called precocious and full of gumption, she also could be called bratty and TSTL. There was many times where Elizabeth blindly and bull headedly charged into situations that made her annoying to follow along with. She was smart in figuring things out and knowing the score but not so great in butting out of situations she had no business in. Michael was a little more lighthearted than your average brooding hero and even though I didn't get to see him as much as I would have preferred, I liked him. Most of what we see of Michael is him trying to keep Elizabeth from possibly dangerous situations and ruining his mission; he had somewhat of a limited role. Together they have tit for tat conversations that were entertaining but their interactions were limited. I wanted to see them together so much more, I'm not sure their relationship felt completely solid to me.
If you're looking for a cleaner, quicker read with many and varied characters and willing to accept a wobbly spy plot, and a scant romance, Anne Stuart is a quality writer to whittle away a few hours to.
November 24, 2021
This was a short, fun and entertaining read. However, the whole set up felt shallow and the villains were practically caricatures. All things aside, it was pleasant enough to while away a few hours.
November 2, 2015
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When NetGalley offered this older Anne Stuart book I grabbed it without even reading what it was about. I do that with authors I really like and I really like Anne Stuart. The Houseparty is a Regency Historical-Romance set during the British Napolitano war in the mid 1800's. It is really a cozy romantic-suspense and a lot of fun, with no overt sexual content. No one writes witty, sarcastic dialogue like Anne Stuart.
Elizabeth is a old maid at 23. She keeps house for her parson brother and life is good, if dull. Elizabeth and Sumner are invited to a houseparty given by a distant cousin, Adolphus, who is also Sumner's patron and has his eye on Elizabeth as a possible wife. Unknown to them is the fact that there is a spy also in attendance and he must be stopped before he can pass valuable information.
Captain Michael Fraser is on the staff of Adolphus' uncle, Colonel Maurice Wingert, also guests for the weekend. Michael is something of an black sheep. He was disgraced in Italy over some gambling debts and passed over for a promotion, being assigned to Colonel Wingert, who is soon to retire. Gossip has it he is bitter and could have traded information for the money to get him out of his trouble.
Elizabeth and Michael strike sparks from their first meeting. Elizabeth is mistakenly given information about a list of British agents that the spy is going to transfer during the weekend. As her brother Jeremy is an agent Elizabeth is determined to recover the list and gets herself in all kinds of trouble. With everyone.
When NetGalley offered this older Anne Stuart book I grabbed it without even reading what it was about. I do that with authors I really like and I really like Anne Stuart. The Houseparty is a Regency Historical-Romance set during the British Napolitano war in the mid 1800's. It is really a cozy romantic-suspense and a lot of fun, with no overt sexual content. No one writes witty, sarcastic dialogue like Anne Stuart.
Elizabeth is a old maid at 23. She keeps house for her parson brother and life is good, if dull. Elizabeth and Sumner are invited to a houseparty given by a distant cousin, Adolphus, who is also Sumner's patron and has his eye on Elizabeth as a possible wife. Unknown to them is the fact that there is a spy also in attendance and he must be stopped before he can pass valuable information.
Captain Michael Fraser is on the staff of Adolphus' uncle, Colonel Maurice Wingert, also guests for the weekend. Michael is something of an black sheep. He was disgraced in Italy over some gambling debts and passed over for a promotion, being assigned to Colonel Wingert, who is soon to retire. Gossip has it he is bitter and could have traded information for the money to get him out of his trouble.
Elizabeth and Michael strike sparks from their first meeting. Elizabeth is mistakenly given information about a list of British agents that the spy is going to transfer during the weekend. As her brother Jeremy is an agent Elizabeth is determined to recover the list and gets herself in all kinds of trouble. With everyone.
August 11, 2016
Memories, Schmemories
While recently searching for something to read I discovered that one of my all time favorite books has been electronically formatted! Of course my paperback is yellow and crumbling, so I just had to buy this again!!! When you read this story remember that Anne Stuart was just starting out, but you can see shades in this wonderful writing of things to come.
Oh, how I miss Fawcett books, and here is one of the reasons why. The Houseparty by Anne Stuart, published in 1985, has been one of my favorites ever since reading it when it first came out. But, we all know how my memory is, so I was a tad bit nervous when I opened this book. One of my concerns was my big mouth and that I had been telling people what a great book this was. Well, I'm happy to report that it has withstood the test of time! This book is one of the reasons I love the romance genre.
This story has all of the elements that normally I'm groaning about, but in Ms. Stuart's capable hands they turn into a very delightful story. It has a spy hero, Michael, and a spirited aka feisty heroine, Lizzie. Lizzie was constantly getting in trouble, snooping, going where she was warned not to go, and Michael was always turning up unexpectedly. But it was all great fun. There is also a great scene of Lizzie hiding and people going in and out of bedrooms... very funny.
The story takes place in the span of three days and is filled with tons of memorable characters; any one of them could be the bad guy. This book is a fast, charming read. You may not get any belly laughs out of this, but I believe this story will make you smile. Even though we don't really get to see the hero's POV, he's still a very sexy guy. And that is what makes great writing - a writer who can create this very interesting man without us seeing inside his head.
I'm glad to say that I am still very fond of this book. And by the way... Anne Stuart is a very talented writer. She writes gothics, thrillers, historicals, contemporaries... with a lot of dark male characters. If you haven't read any of her books, you should really give one a try. If you can get your hands on The Demon Count (1980) and Lord Satan's Bride (1981), both from the old Dell Candlelight Intrigue books, you'll will be in for a treat. I believe they have also been electronically formatted. Some other recommendations: Black Ice, The Devil's Waltz, To Love a Dark Lord, Ice Storm, Ice Blue, A Rose of Midnight, Nightfall, Lord of Danger. And again, a little word of warning - Anne Stuart is known for her very strong, dark, brooding men. She did get her start writing gothic novels, after all.
P.S. - My daughter also recommends the contemporary romance Special Gifts, starring a psychic and a cop.
KaysBlog
While recently searching for something to read I discovered that one of my all time favorite books has been electronically formatted! Of course my paperback is yellow and crumbling, so I just had to buy this again!!! When you read this story remember that Anne Stuart was just starting out, but you can see shades in this wonderful writing of things to come.
Oh, how I miss Fawcett books, and here is one of the reasons why. The Houseparty by Anne Stuart, published in 1985, has been one of my favorites ever since reading it when it first came out. But, we all know how my memory is, so I was a tad bit nervous when I opened this book. One of my concerns was my big mouth and that I had been telling people what a great book this was. Well, I'm happy to report that it has withstood the test of time! This book is one of the reasons I love the romance genre.
This story has all of the elements that normally I'm groaning about, but in Ms. Stuart's capable hands they turn into a very delightful story. It has a spy hero, Michael, and a spirited aka feisty heroine, Lizzie. Lizzie was constantly getting in trouble, snooping, going where she was warned not to go, and Michael was always turning up unexpectedly. But it was all great fun. There is also a great scene of Lizzie hiding and people going in and out of bedrooms... very funny.
The story takes place in the span of three days and is filled with tons of memorable characters; any one of them could be the bad guy. This book is a fast, charming read. You may not get any belly laughs out of this, but I believe this story will make you smile. Even though we don't really get to see the hero's POV, he's still a very sexy guy. And that is what makes great writing - a writer who can create this very interesting man without us seeing inside his head.
I'm glad to say that I am still very fond of this book. And by the way... Anne Stuart is a very talented writer. She writes gothics, thrillers, historicals, contemporaries... with a lot of dark male characters. If you haven't read any of her books, you should really give one a try. If you can get your hands on The Demon Count (1980) and Lord Satan's Bride (1981), both from the old Dell Candlelight Intrigue books, you'll will be in for a treat. I believe they have also been electronically formatted. Some other recommendations: Black Ice, The Devil's Waltz, To Love a Dark Lord, Ice Storm, Ice Blue, A Rose of Midnight, Nightfall, Lord of Danger. And again, a little word of warning - Anne Stuart is known for her very strong, dark, brooding men. She did get her start writing gothic novels, after all.
P.S. - My daughter also recommends the contemporary romance Special Gifts, starring a psychic and a cop.
KaysBlog
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2015
Historic Romance/Mystery 3.5 Stars!
This was about equal parts romance and mystery, and, while I'm not a big fan of the mystery genre, this is a very pleasant read. As always, there's a realism about Anne Stuart's writing that I find quite captivating.
The main characters are both likeable, especially the heroine, and I must admit to having a big smile on my face throughout the last chapter.
The story is clean in terms of both language and intimacy, other than a few kisses.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was about equal parts romance and mystery, and, while I'm not a big fan of the mystery genre, this is a very pleasant read. As always, there's a realism about Anne Stuart's writing that I find quite captivating.
The main characters are both likeable, especially the heroine, and I must admit to having a big smile on my face throughout the last chapter.
The story is clean in terms of both language and intimacy, other than a few kisses.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2021
A fun filled charade!
Intrigue, witty shenanigans and misperceptions abound as wilfully stubborn Elizabeth refuses to be brushed aside. Causing havoc, frustration and heated passions to flare in her innocent attempts to squirrel out which cunning houseguest she can trust and which has treasonous intentions, despite numerous attempts to save her from her determined meddlesome snooping.
I did enjoy the dynamics between this well matched pairing: the fiery, sharp witted heroine, Lizzie, and her strong, capable (not as he seems) mysterious hero, Fraser (Michael), as they butt heads, wiles and increasingly flaring emotions.
To be read in the nature it was intended as a fun-filled spot of escapism and a delightful way to spend a few hours wrapped up in a charade of lurking danger, tenacious romance and madcap characters! Taking just a little while to get into at first but I soon became hooked!
Intrigue, witty shenanigans and misperceptions abound as wilfully stubborn Elizabeth refuses to be brushed aside. Causing havoc, frustration and heated passions to flare in her innocent attempts to squirrel out which cunning houseguest she can trust and which has treasonous intentions, despite numerous attempts to save her from her determined meddlesome snooping.
I did enjoy the dynamics between this well matched pairing: the fiery, sharp witted heroine, Lizzie, and her strong, capable (not as he seems) mysterious hero, Fraser (Michael), as they butt heads, wiles and increasingly flaring emotions.
To be read in the nature it was intended as a fun-filled spot of escapism and a delightful way to spend a few hours wrapped up in a charade of lurking danger, tenacious romance and madcap characters! Taking just a little while to get into at first but I soon became hooked!
February 13, 2016
This book was first published in 1985 but this is the first time I am reading this book. I was glad that they re-released it since I did missed it the first time. Our heroine, Elizabeth is at a house part where her brother wants her to marry the host. But he isn't what Elizabeth would want at all. our hero is Captain Michael Fraser and rumors abound that he is a spy for the French. Elizabeth thinks this is her chance to help her one brother who is doing undercover work for the English in France and foil any possible plans Fraser might have. This starts a really good mystery type love affair. This is also a really good short read (almost 200 pages) that you wont' want to put down! I hope that you enjoy having this book too!
November 25, 2015
What a fun read! Every single character in this book is a perfect fit. It has some mystery in it but that really isn't the main focus of the book because it wasn't a shocker, what was the main focus were the colorful characters. They were funny, rich, full characters that brought the story to life. Anne Stuart brought each of the characters to the forefront in an exceedingly well played manner. We get to know the different characters, their traits and quirks and the interaction between them. We saw those interactions bring out the best and the worst in them all. From beginning to end it was a book that you just can't stop reading and you thoroughly enjoy.
June 4, 2016
Thinking about this book just brings a smile to my face. It reminded me a little bit of playing the board game Clue - that same ambiance, the old manor house, visiting houseguests and an unsolved mystery. It had a touch of mad cap comedy and adventure and a little dark, broody mystery. I loved every minute of it. And let us not forget it's an Anne Stuart so the romance was present as only she can do.
The characters were so well written that I can see them in my mind, the heroine was sassy and smart and the hero was dark and mysterious and as alpha as they make them. I loved every page of this book and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher
The characters were so well written that I can see them in my mind, the heroine was sassy and smart and the hero was dark and mysterious and as alpha as they make them. I loved every page of this book and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher
March 27, 2008
When Elizabeth reluctantly attends a houseparty hosted by a corpulent and annoying cousin, she does not expect to encounter a Napoleonic spy - or that he will be so attractive!
March 27, 2026
It's been years since I've read a historical romance but I was craving an Anne Stuart experience and this has been languishing on my to read pile for at least a decade. It was a lot of fun. It has most of the things that made me stop reading HistRom but also I knew going in that it was going to be bonkers (positive) and in that sense it really did not disappoint. Stuart is so smart with how she pulls out the tropes and then just keeps pulling to the point of absurdity, without completely unraveling the whole story.
CW because of a lot of nonconsensual grabbing and slapping on the part of just about everyone
CW because of a lot of nonconsensual grabbing and slapping on the part of just about everyone
March 20, 2024
I mostly enjoyed this regency spy romp, though the h and her antics did grow tiresome (even the H describes her as such). Her sharp tongue was great, but otherwise she tended to behave like an impetuous, immature brat. Once all had been revealed, instead of recognizing the stupidity of some of her actions, her response was to sulk about being ill-used. Sigh.
The ‘mystery’ aspect of the storyline is also a little weak, but since the book veers more towards romantic caper than actual whodunit, this bothered me less.
The ‘mystery’ aspect of the storyline is also a little weak, but since the book veers more towards romantic caper than actual whodunit, this bothered me less.
January 9, 2021
Enjoyable
This was a very entertaining novel. The main heroine, Elizabeth, is very curious and meddlesome. She goes to a house party with her brother and overhears that there is a French spy that can expose one of her brothers that is an British spy. She gets into all sorts of trouble and meets Captain Fraiser, who she begins to develop feelings for.
This was a very entertaining novel. The main heroine, Elizabeth, is very curious and meddlesome. She goes to a house party with her brother and overhears that there is a French spy that can expose one of her brothers that is an British spy. She gets into all sorts of trouble and meets Captain Fraiser, who she begins to develop feelings for.
November 24, 2017
Not my cup of tea. Basically, everyone is awful and stupid and for some reason the prose rubbed me the wrong way. I picked it up because it was on a number of spinster shelves, but the heroine is slender and charming and beautiful and just not married.
May 1, 2024
I am a long time Anne Stuart fan but have not read many of her historical novels. I was delighted to run across this one. There is a bit of mystery and spying involved in this house party. An enjoyable light read.
September 24, 2024
This was not one of Anne Stewart's best. The main character was annoying. Most of the characters were portrayed as stupid. I finished it as I felt it would get better it did not. Don't let this book disway you from her books. She is usually at least a 4 star writer.
April 11, 2023
Brilliant
I adore this book. A weekend and a high risk game of cat and mouse. The characters were perfectly written and they were all matched in the game of love and seduction.
I adore this book. A weekend and a high risk game of cat and mouse. The characters were perfectly written and they were all matched in the game of love and seduction.
May 24, 2023
Houseparty
I love most of Anne Stuart. Only this was kind of dragging. Sort of boring. Took long time to finish reading because of those facts.
I love all of other Anne Stuart’s Historical romance books I have read. 😊
I love most of Anne Stuart. Only this was kind of dragging. Sort of boring. Took long time to finish reading because of those facts.
I love all of other Anne Stuart’s Historical romance books I have read. 😊
November 9, 2015
The last thing Elizabeth wants to do is go to a three day house party with her insufferably stuffy brother and her unbearable distant relations; however, it seems she has no choice. But things prove far more interesting and far more dangerous than she expected with the presence of the handsome yet equally rude and boorish Captain Michael Fraser. Could his reputation as a french spy be correct? Or is it all a ruse to find the real traitor? Elizabeth is determined to find the truth, placing not only her heart, but her life into jeopardy.
This book is a rerelease of one of Anne Stuart's earlier books, published in 1985, which has now been spruced up with a far more pleasing cover. The 80s were a dangerous time for historical romance with bodice rippers and "forced seduction" running rife, luckily The Houseparty avoided that, although I can't imagine it would have been released again if it contained a scene with forced seduction. So instead of The Houseparty falling in to that old 80s trap, what I found instead was a romantic spy romp where our intrepid heroine sticks her nose in and does some amateur sleuthing, much to her own and every one else's peril.
The Houseparty was easy going and a lot of fun to read, even if nothing really surprising happens. Elizabeth was a likable heroine even though she did insist on gleefully running headlong into danger with alarming frequency; however, what is one to expect from such a feisty headstrong heroine? Certainly not any common sense or sense of personal danger. I did like the romance, it wasn't anything grand of heartfelt, much like the rest of the book it was light-hearted and skin deep.
This certainly isn't as good as Anne Stuart's current releases, especially her House of Rohan series, which I adore, but if you want a fun spy caper with a nice central couple than this wouldn't be a bad book to pick up.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne
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November 7, 2015
The last thing Elizabeth wants to do is go to a three day house party with her insufferably stuffy brother and her unbearable distant relations; however, it seems she has no choice. But things prove far more interesting and far more dangerous than she expected with the presence of the handsome yet equally rude and boorish Captain Michael Fraser. Could his reputation as a french spy be correct? Or is it all a ruse to find the real traitor? Elizabeth is determined to find the truth, placing not only her heart, but her life into jeopardy.
This book is a rerelease of one of Anne Stuart's earlier books, published in 1985, which has now been spruced up with a far more pleasing cover. The 80s were a dangerous time for historical romance with bodice rippers and "forced seduction" running rife, luckily The Houseparty avoided that, although I can't imagine it would have been released again if it contained a scene with forced seduction. So instead of The Houseparty falling in to that old 80s trap, what I found instead was a romantic spy romp where our intrepid heroine sticks her nose in and does some amateur sleuthing, much to her own and every one else's peril.
The Houseparty was easy going and a lot of fun to read, even if nothing really surprising happens. Elizabeth was a likable heroine even though she did insist on gleefully running headlong into danger with alarming frequency; however, what is one to expect from such a feisty headstrong heroine? Certainly not any common sense or sense of personal danger. I did like the romance, it wasn't anything grand of heartfelt, much like the rest of the book it was light-hearted and skin deep.
This certainly isn't as good as Anne Stuart's current releases, especially her House of Rohan series, which I adore, but if you want a fun spy caper with a nice central couple than this wouldn't be a bad book to pick up.
This book is a rerelease of one of Anne Stuart's earlier books, published in 1985, which has now been spruced up with a far more pleasing cover. The 80s were a dangerous time for historical romance with bodice rippers and "forced seduction" running rife, luckily The Houseparty avoided that, although I can't imagine it would have been released again if it contained a scene with forced seduction. So instead of The Houseparty falling in to that old 80s trap, what I found instead was a romantic spy romp where our intrepid heroine sticks her nose in and does some amateur sleuthing, much to her own and every one else's peril.
The Houseparty was easy going and a lot of fun to read, even if nothing really surprising happens. Elizabeth was a likable heroine even though she did insist on gleefully running headlong into danger with alarming frequency; however, what is one to expect from such a feisty headstrong heroine? Certainly not any common sense or sense of personal danger. I did like the romance, it wasn't anything grand of heartfelt, much like the rest of the book it was light-hearted and skin deep.
This certainly isn't as good as Anne Stuart's current releases, especially her House of Rohan series, which I adore, but if you want a fun spy caper with a nice central couple than this wouldn't be a bad book to pick up.
October 27, 2015
Classic Anne Stuart Which Shows Glimpses of Her Later Themes and Characters
"My dear Captain Fraser, if you really happen to be a spy and a traitor, then I intend to be the one to catch you red-handed. I see no reason to let the men have all the fun and excitement."
FINAL DECISION: Lively with a classic Stuart hero who walks the line between hero and villain. This classic historical book is sex-free, but with intriguing characters and a well written suspense story.
THE STORY: Elizabeth Traherne is "bright, inquisitive and far too pretty" when she attends a houseparty. She is worried about her brother who works as an agent for the British. When MIchael Fraser attends, Elizabeth learns that Mr. Fraser is known by gossip as a traitor and French spy and agent. Elizabeth learns that something is going on that threatens English security and maybe the life of her brother. At the same time, she is attracted to the dangerous potential spy which might threaten Elizabeth herself.
OPINION: I liked this book because of the interesting characters. Elizabeth is nosey and sometimes too curious for her own good, but I liked that she is unwilling to conform to her "proper" role. I really liked Michael. Stuart keeps his role ambiguous until the end of the book. He is sexy and dangerous like many of Stuart's heroes. The well plotted suspense story is also emblematic of Stuart's later works. This is a nice uncomplicated read that I enjoyed primarily because of the suspense story and the interesting characters.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book is really clean compared to modern romance novels.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE HOUSEPARTY is a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
"My dear Captain Fraser, if you really happen to be a spy and a traitor, then I intend to be the one to catch you red-handed. I see no reason to let the men have all the fun and excitement."
FINAL DECISION: Lively with a classic Stuart hero who walks the line between hero and villain. This classic historical book is sex-free, but with intriguing characters and a well written suspense story.
THE STORY: Elizabeth Traherne is "bright, inquisitive and far too pretty" when she attends a houseparty. She is worried about her brother who works as an agent for the British. When MIchael Fraser attends, Elizabeth learns that Mr. Fraser is known by gossip as a traitor and French spy and agent. Elizabeth learns that something is going on that threatens English security and maybe the life of her brother. At the same time, she is attracted to the dangerous potential spy which might threaten Elizabeth herself.
OPINION: I liked this book because of the interesting characters. Elizabeth is nosey and sometimes too curious for her own good, but I liked that she is unwilling to conform to her "proper" role. I really liked Michael. Stuart keeps his role ambiguous until the end of the book. He is sexy and dangerous like many of Stuart's heroes. The well plotted suspense story is also emblematic of Stuart's later works. This is a nice uncomplicated read that I enjoyed primarily because of the suspense story and the interesting characters.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book is really clean compared to modern romance novels.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE HOUSEPARTY is a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
October 28, 2015
***Received an ARC from Netgalley***
I was a little disappointed in this book. The description was very promising but the first chapter in the book I was struggling to figure out who was who and the words the author used were just too complicated. I like books that are easy to read, not where I am constantly trying to figure out what the author meant because she threw a large word in there unnecessarily.
I went back and did some research on this book and realized it was first printed in the 1980's so I'm guessing that's why the wording is the way it was but my first impression was that it was unnecessary to use such large words and that the author was new at writing and was trying too hard.
I also didn't like the chemistry between Captain Fraser and Elizabeth. She was so hot and cold towards him, one minute obsessed with him and then the next minute she was hating him, it was difficult to keep track of her emotions towards him and for what reason she was or was not liking him. Then he just assumed they would marry, even though they never really got to know each other. All they ever talked about was what he was up to and what she was up to, not about each other. I prefer books where the characters fall for each other because of who they are, not because of some life threatening mission. There was a lack of profiles for each of them. For instances, Michael claims at one point he has three sisters-why did he not then tell tales of those sisters when he and Elizabeth had stolen moments together? That way she could get to know him on a more personal level and see the charming side of him and that he cares for his family.
I only gave it three stars because I did like not knowing who was at fault until the end, which was the only thing that kept me reading the book and not giving up on it.
I was a little disappointed in this book. The description was very promising but the first chapter in the book I was struggling to figure out who was who and the words the author used were just too complicated. I like books that are easy to read, not where I am constantly trying to figure out what the author meant because she threw a large word in there unnecessarily.
I went back and did some research on this book and realized it was first printed in the 1980's so I'm guessing that's why the wording is the way it was but my first impression was that it was unnecessary to use such large words and that the author was new at writing and was trying too hard.
I also didn't like the chemistry between Captain Fraser and Elizabeth. She was so hot and cold towards him, one minute obsessed with him and then the next minute she was hating him, it was difficult to keep track of her emotions towards him and for what reason she was or was not liking him. Then he just assumed they would marry, even though they never really got to know each other. All they ever talked about was what he was up to and what she was up to, not about each other. I prefer books where the characters fall for each other because of who they are, not because of some life threatening mission. There was a lack of profiles for each of them. For instances, Michael claims at one point he has three sisters-why did he not then tell tales of those sisters when he and Elizabeth had stolen moments together? That way she could get to know him on a more personal level and see the charming side of him and that he cares for his family.
I only gave it three stars because I did like not knowing who was at fault until the end, which was the only thing that kept me reading the book and not giving up on it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2010
The Houseparty is a Regency Romance in which Lizzie Traherne is a guest at a houseparty, along with her proper brother Sumner. Sumner wants her to marry the host, Adolphus Wingert, a portly fellow who favors pink and likes to smack his lips. Lizzie is against it. Adolphus' mother is also against it, as she makes known in various ways. Also present is Brenna, who is after Sumner, and the luscious widow the Contessa, who may or may not have several schemes going on. Captain Michael Fraser is also in attendance and rumors abound that he is a spy for the French. Since Lizzie's other brother is doing undercover work for the English in France, she sees the need to foil any possible plans Fraser might have. After learning there is a list of English spies hidden somewhere in the house, she sets out to uncover it. But one or more of the other guests seems to have the same idea!
Anne Stuart has written contemporary and historical romances, in many different categories. Sometimes her writing is dark but this time it is light and funny. The characters are interesting and the sparks fly between the hero Fraser and his heroine Lizzie. A nice, quick read!
Anne Stuart has written contemporary and historical romances, in many different categories. Sometimes her writing is dark but this time it is light and funny. The characters are interesting and the sparks fly between the hero Fraser and his heroine Lizzie. A nice, quick read!
November 13, 2015
I received this book from NetGallery for an honest review.
Spies, intrigue, and romance in Regency England, are among my favorite scenarios. This is an older offering of Anne Stuart's, now in kindle. Although I have read many of her books, this was not one of them. It did remind me of why I enjoyed her stories. House party is just that, a weekend gathering of relatives, near relatives, and various other people. However, this was not just a friendly get together, but an attempt to catch an English turncoat who is spying for the French. But who is the spy? Michael Fraser allows himself to be cast as the potential bad guy, or is he, maybe it's a long time friend.
Elizabeth and Michael are drawn to each other much to her chagrin, she doesn't trust but wants to know what is going on. She knows her brother, Jeremy is a spy working in France for England and she is concerned how this weekend's ActiveX will affect him.
I don't like to give the storyline away with spoilers in a review. If you enjoy clean romance mixed with intrigue, then I recommend this book. It was definitely worth my time.
Spies, intrigue, and romance in Regency England, are among my favorite scenarios. This is an older offering of Anne Stuart's, now in kindle. Although I have read many of her books, this was not one of them. It did remind me of why I enjoyed her stories. House party is just that, a weekend gathering of relatives, near relatives, and various other people. However, this was not just a friendly get together, but an attempt to catch an English turncoat who is spying for the French. But who is the spy? Michael Fraser allows himself to be cast as the potential bad guy, or is he, maybe it's a long time friend.
Elizabeth and Michael are drawn to each other much to her chagrin, she doesn't trust but wants to know what is going on. She knows her brother, Jeremy is a spy working in France for England and she is concerned how this weekend's ActiveX will affect him.
I don't like to give the storyline away with spoilers in a review. If you enjoy clean romance mixed with intrigue, then I recommend this book. It was definitely worth my time.
October 22, 2015
Michael is a spy and Elizabeth is a troublesome, society beauty. Both are invited to a house party for different reasons but end up entangled in a little spy intrigue. Elizabeht is beautiful, witty and curious, a deadly combination for Michael who is trying to save the world by finding a spy list. I liked the colorful secondary characters more then the romance between Michael and Elizabeth. Adolfo was unintentionaly hilarious with his extravagant wordrobe. The romance felt flat to me, both thought they were the cleaverest people in the room and I didn't feel a spark between them. Quick and good for a few chuckles.
December 31, 2010
Early Stuart. Fun, light read. Very mild in term of sensuality.
I wonder why Anne Stuart always describes her heroines as too smart for their own goods when instead they're quite stupid (granted the heroine in Ruthless is an exception).
I read her books mostly for her hero, anyway, and this book doesn't disappoint in that aspect. 3 and 1/2 stars.
I wonder why Anne Stuart always describes her heroines as too smart for their own goods when instead they're quite stupid (granted the heroine in Ruthless is an exception).
I read her books mostly for her hero, anyway, and this book doesn't disappoint in that aspect. 3 and 1/2 stars.
November 2, 2015
This is a quick read with great characters and a wonderful story. I was hoping for a bit more chemistry and steam between the characters, however overall I did enjoy the story and was entertained throughout.
December 13, 2015
A foolish farce, but basically readable.
August 14, 2016
An attempt at farce which just isn't that funny. And the "feisty" heroine just comes across as a fucking moron. Not Anne Stuart at her best - there isn't even any sex.
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