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A Paradox in Time #1
Disturbingly Beautiful
Is it really possible that somewhere in time, the perfect paradox could be created? Does romance really stand a chance, and could it ever flourish amidst so many intricacies and broken lives? How can a nineteenth-century governess unknowingly cause so much devastation?
As Nell’s world opens up, we follow her on a complex journey, on which she discovers love, loss and betrayal, and is forced to play a dangerous game from which there appears to be no escape.
An intricate family plot slowly begins to unravel, in which she finds herself centre stage. She was never supposed to leave Haunchcroft estate, and he will do everything in his power to keep her there…
Could a possible rip in time be the salvation that Nell seeks?
“I find you disturbingly beautiful,” are the contradictory words bestowed upon the governess by her master.
Mr Buchannan’s infatuation is a shadow from which Nell cannot escape. The feelings he holds for her are not reciprocated, and though his lust soon turns to love, Nell’s feelings towards him turn to hatred. Dreams and a love of literature are Nell’s only escapism from the downtrodden life she leads as a governess in the nineteenth century.
One night, an intruder on the estate catches Nell off guard, but she gives chase; a decision that leads her through an opening in time between the centuries, where she finds equality, true friendship and a completely different outlook on life.
Despite using this to her advantage to escape the advances of her unwanted suitor, she is somewhat perturbed when she unexpectedly finds him at her side in the twenty-first century. Will love conquer all, or will time always stand in their way?
As Nell’s world opens up, we follow her on a complex journey, on which she discovers love, loss and betrayal, and is forced to play a dangerous game from which there appears to be no escape.
An intricate family plot slowly begins to unravel, in which she finds herself centre stage. She was never supposed to leave Haunchcroft estate, and he will do everything in his power to keep her there…
Could a possible rip in time be the salvation that Nell seeks?
“I find you disturbingly beautiful,” are the contradictory words bestowed upon the governess by her master.
Mr Buchannan’s infatuation is a shadow from which Nell cannot escape. The feelings he holds for her are not reciprocated, and though his lust soon turns to love, Nell’s feelings towards him turn to hatred. Dreams and a love of literature are Nell’s only escapism from the downtrodden life she leads as a governess in the nineteenth century.
One night, an intruder on the estate catches Nell off guard, but she gives chase; a decision that leads her through an opening in time between the centuries, where she finds equality, true friendship and a completely different outlook on life.
Despite using this to her advantage to escape the advances of her unwanted suitor, she is somewhat perturbed when she unexpectedly finds him at her side in the twenty-first century. Will love conquer all, or will time always stand in their way?
- GenresRomanceTime Travel
264 pages, ebook
First published November 13, 2014
5 people are currently reading
621 people want to read
About the author
J. Wells
9 books62 followersJudy and Laura Wells are a mother and daughter writing duo from the heart of England. Between the two of them they own three beautiful but mad Japanese Shiba Inus and two not so active tortoises.
They’ve dabbled with a few different genres in the past, but contemporary romance has been their first love since they began writing. Perfect Imperfections is Book One in their Moments series.
They’ve dabbled with a few different genres in the past, but contemporary romance has been their first love since they began writing. Perfect Imperfections is Book One in their Moments series.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 17, 2015
Original review
I started reading Disturbingly Beautiful and I immediately loved the writing.
In the prologue I've read a little part about books and I felt so related to Nell. Sometimes I wish I could just open a book and live the life of that character.
A warm glow inside ignited her imagination, throwing her into a fictional world where books, lines and chapters from the countless book she had read came to life, filling her mind with hope.
In the first chapter, Nell says something about books and it's just me.
She loved books, and marvelled at the dark mahogany bookcases that swept their way around the walls. Books were both her companion and passion, and had been since childhood; they opened her mind and filled her heart with wonder.
After those two quotes I started to like Nell more and more.
When Nell met Jeremy, everything changed in Nell's life. When she touched his arm, they went to the 20th century. Everything was different for a 19th-century-girl.
But she could not stay in the 20th century when the man she loved, could not love her.
Back in the 19th century, Mr. Buchannan is asking for Nell's hand. He loves her.
My love, that one drop of blood lying between millions of snowflakes is how you stand out above all others in my heart.
He will try anything to make her love him.
You must have no fear of me loosening you, for I shall never let you go.
But can Nell love him?
I'm not used to reading this types of books, but that doesn't mean I don't like these types of books.
I loved reading Disturbingly Beautiful and I cannot wait to read Disturbingly Divine!!!
-I want to thank Laura and Judy Wells for giving me a signed copy!
I started reading Disturbingly Beautiful and I immediately loved the writing.
In the prologue I've read a little part about books and I felt so related to Nell. Sometimes I wish I could just open a book and live the life of that character.
A warm glow inside ignited her imagination, throwing her into a fictional world where books, lines and chapters from the countless book she had read came to life, filling her mind with hope.
In the first chapter, Nell says something about books and it's just me.
She loved books, and marvelled at the dark mahogany bookcases that swept their way around the walls. Books were both her companion and passion, and had been since childhood; they opened her mind and filled her heart with wonder.
After those two quotes I started to like Nell more and more.
When Nell met Jeremy, everything changed in Nell's life. When she touched his arm, they went to the 20th century. Everything was different for a 19th-century-girl.
But she could not stay in the 20th century when the man she loved, could not love her.
Back in the 19th century, Mr. Buchannan is asking for Nell's hand. He loves her.
My love, that one drop of blood lying between millions of snowflakes is how you stand out above all others in my heart.
He will try anything to make her love him.
You must have no fear of me loosening you, for I shall never let you go.
But can Nell love him?
I'm not used to reading this types of books, but that doesn't mean I don't like these types of books.
I loved reading Disturbingly Beautiful and I cannot wait to read Disturbingly Divine!!!
-I want to thank Laura and Judy Wells for giving me a signed copy!
January 12, 2015
'Disturbingly Beautiful' is the enchanting first book in a New Adult time travel romance series. It follows the main character - Nell - as she goes about her life as a governess at Haunchcroft estate after her charge, Abigail, has passed away. It doesn't take long before the master of the house, Mr. Buchannan, begins to make intimate advances towards her. Nell finds her master to be a handsome man, but doesn't like his character or personality. His advances towards her are unwanted, but he doesn't seem to care. As the time passes, Nell begins to realize that she has been at the center of an intricate plot the family concocted - and that she will never be allowed to leave the estate as promised. When an intruder on the estate comes across Nell on accident - she chases him through what turns out to be a rip in time. On the other side of this opening, she finds a world completely different than her own. One where women have rights of their own, equality with men, and are listened to with respect. It's here that she also stumbles upon a true friend and gains a whole new outlook on life. One thing Nell never expected - aside from going through a rip in time - is finding herself in the future time with her unwanted admirer and master from her own century. Why is he there alongside her in this far-away and distant time? Is he the same person as the man she knows at Haunchcroft estate with his cold and distant demeanor and unwanted advances? Or is this future version a completely different man - one that sees her in a whole new light? Could this man possibly be the same one from her reoccurring dreams - her true love?
I'm usually a huge sucker when it comes to true love and romance in books, so it's no surprise that I loved that aspect of the story in this one. Aside from the romantic aspects of the story, I was fascinated by the opening/rip in time that Nell goes through. It's mysterious and defies every possibility, but I really enjoyed seeing Nell in the future - with all the women's rights and advances in equality that seemed impossible to fathom in her own time. She reacted pretty much how almost everyone would in a situation like that, so even that crazy part of the story line made Nell all the more realistic to me as a character. She's a great lead for the story - smart, determined, honorable, kind, loving, and devoted. She has her flaws just like everyone else, but these only served to make her easy to identify with. I haven't read many time travel books, so I'm always intrigued by how the author fits it into the plot, along with all the details surrounding it. Every author has a different perspective and way of writing about time travel, and I find it interesting to compare them to see what they have in common as well as what's different. The writing was well done with a natural pace and easy flow with great use of imagery and detailed descriptions that makes the reader feel like they're inside the story beside Nell. There were some parts that felt a bit slow to me - they kind of popped up here and there throughout the book - but that's just my personal opinion and it didn't effect my reading experience very much. I definitely recommend this book to fans of science fiction, romance, and time travel lovers. This is a great start to a series that has loads of potential. I'll definitely be reading the sequel when it comes out.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm usually a huge sucker when it comes to true love and romance in books, so it's no surprise that I loved that aspect of the story in this one. Aside from the romantic aspects of the story, I was fascinated by the opening/rip in time that Nell goes through. It's mysterious and defies every possibility, but I really enjoyed seeing Nell in the future - with all the women's rights and advances in equality that seemed impossible to fathom in her own time. She reacted pretty much how almost everyone would in a situation like that, so even that crazy part of the story line made Nell all the more realistic to me as a character. She's a great lead for the story - smart, determined, honorable, kind, loving, and devoted. She has her flaws just like everyone else, but these only served to make her easy to identify with. I haven't read many time travel books, so I'm always intrigued by how the author fits it into the plot, along with all the details surrounding it. Every author has a different perspective and way of writing about time travel, and I find it interesting to compare them to see what they have in common as well as what's different. The writing was well done with a natural pace and easy flow with great use of imagery and detailed descriptions that makes the reader feel like they're inside the story beside Nell. There were some parts that felt a bit slow to me - they kind of popped up here and there throughout the book - but that's just my personal opinion and it didn't effect my reading experience very much. I definitely recommend this book to fans of science fiction, romance, and time travel lovers. This is a great start to a series that has loads of potential. I'll definitely be reading the sequel when it comes out.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2015
The year is 1813 and Nell Dodsworth is a twenty-six year old governess at Haunchcroft Estate whose ward, Abigale, has just died. Abigale's father, Mr Sebastian Buchannan, makes unwanted advances and calls her "disturbingly beautiful". One night, Nell follows an intruder and the repercussions of this decision will affect the lives of many for years to come. The stranger is Jeremy Chambers, a time traveler she somehow travels forward with in time to 1968. While Nell ends up falling for him, Jeremy remains unmoved, mourning the loss of the mysterious Mirren. What are Jeremy's motivations for manipulating time? And what other secret is Jeremy keeping from Nell? When Nell returns to her time, family secrets are hinted at and later revealed. When she once again travels into the future (this time to 2014), she discovers just how her time traveling has affected the lives of others. Will Nell ever be able to set things right?
This book has a few problems, including editing errors, unsympathetic characters, and a lack of cohesion between the different story lines. The book gets off to a very slow start, but progresses more quickly when Nell travels to the 1960s. While her visit to the future is interesting and her old-fashioned language and conventions are quaint and amusing, the whole thing just doesn't ring true. I would expect her to show more amazement at how much things have changed since the 1800s. This time travel episode is also quite long, and there doesn't seem to be much point to it. Nell's second visit into the future is even more unsatisfying, although everything seems to come together in the end.
Overall, this is an interesting and entertaining read. Even though it is the first in a series, the story in this book is complete.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
This book has a few problems, including editing errors, unsympathetic characters, and a lack of cohesion between the different story lines. The book gets off to a very slow start, but progresses more quickly when Nell travels to the 1960s. While her visit to the future is interesting and her old-fashioned language and conventions are quaint and amusing, the whole thing just doesn't ring true. I would expect her to show more amazement at how much things have changed since the 1800s. This time travel episode is also quite long, and there doesn't seem to be much point to it. Nell's second visit into the future is even more unsatisfying, although everything seems to come together in the end.
Overall, this is an interesting and entertaining read. Even though it is the first in a series, the story in this book is complete.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
January 14, 2015
An 19th century story of intrigue and romance straight out of Gosford Park that was slightly hampered by confusing time travel. Overall, not a bad read but almost felt like 2 separate stories. Full review here at SeeKikiRead.com.
November 27, 2014
A Fun Read!!
Thoroughly enjoyable!! Historical Regency meets Sci Fi time travel. A proper waltz right into the psychedelic sixties!! Nell travels into the future, back to the past, and back once again. In what century will Nell find her happily after?
Thoroughly enjoyable!! Historical Regency meets Sci Fi time travel. A proper waltz right into the psychedelic sixties!! Nell travels into the future, back to the past, and back once again. In what century will Nell find her happily after?
December 8, 2014
Disturbingly Beautiful took me on an extraordinary journey of love through time. Boy oh boy. Talk about the shocks and surprises in this book. I can't tell you how many times I was left completely shell-shocked. There are so many secrets and twists in this book that left me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I constantly had to know more. Had to know what happened next. The world-building was well developed and crafted beautifully. I was able to vividly see what was going on in the story. I felt as if I was apart of the story. The character development was spot on!!! Each character showed a lot of growth by the end of the story, and that is very important to me.
Nell hated Mr. Buchannan with a passion. No matter what advances he made toward her, she shot them down. That's how much she couldn't stand him. Items started to go missing and Nell chased the thief all the way to 1968. Let's face it, 1968 is completely different from 1813. Everything was completely different. Her lifestyle had to change and she enjoyed learning new things. She was slowly easing into this new way of life, of being free. She became great friends with Jeremy, but after breaking her heart she goes back in time to 1813 to start where she left off. I hated how she left Jeremy. He is one character that I would love to see more of. He was so happy to finally bring someone in time with him. It gave him hope of putting a paradox in time to change something that he regrets more than anything. Anyway, after Nell goes back home and into the arms of Mr. Buchannan who she is falling for, secrets become known. Nell realizes she is in the middle of a sinister arrangement and decides to flee. Only this time she shows up in 2014. Everything has changed. All the characters she met in 1968 are gone and old. And this time, Mr. Buchannan follows her.
Nell was a character that I easily fell in love with. She was strong, caring and independent. She didn't let anyone change who she was. I loved watching her friendship grow with Jeremy. I loved Jeremy and I definitely want to know what happened to him. I also loved watched Nell's and Mr Buchannan's relationship grow and develop. Nell slowly realized that he wasn't all what she thought he was. That some of the secrets painted him in a new light once revealed. Mr. Buchannan really fell for Nell. He did whatever he had to do to make Nell his no matter how drastic it was. But that is where all the secrets lie. He did whatever he had to to protect Nell. I loved him for that. It was so nice to see his soft side.
Disturbingly Beautiful was an enthralling, beautiful story that will stay with you until the end of time. It will really pull at your heartstrings. I got teary eyed at the end, because I fell in love with the characters and the ending shocked me, but made complete sense. It was one of those endings that I should have seen coming but didn't. My jaw actually dropped and I had a complete OMG moment. Then I cried, but realized that that ending had to happen. But it ended happily and I loved that!!! I always have to have my HEAs. The only little issue I had was with the scenes of her losing her virginity. I couldn't tell whether those were actually a dream or real. I had to read a couple of the scenes twice to try and figure it out. But other than that, I enjoyed the book. I hope there is a sequel to this book, because the ending definitely left me wanting more. Disturbingly Beautiful is a book that I will definitely be rereading. It is a fantastic story and I highly recommend it!!!
Nell hated Mr. Buchannan with a passion. No matter what advances he made toward her, she shot them down. That's how much she couldn't stand him. Items started to go missing and Nell chased the thief all the way to 1968. Let's face it, 1968 is completely different from 1813. Everything was completely different. Her lifestyle had to change and she enjoyed learning new things. She was slowly easing into this new way of life, of being free. She became great friends with Jeremy, but after breaking her heart she goes back in time to 1813 to start where she left off. I hated how she left Jeremy. He is one character that I would love to see more of. He was so happy to finally bring someone in time with him. It gave him hope of putting a paradox in time to change something that he regrets more than anything. Anyway, after Nell goes back home and into the arms of Mr. Buchannan who she is falling for, secrets become known. Nell realizes she is in the middle of a sinister arrangement and decides to flee. Only this time she shows up in 2014. Everything has changed. All the characters she met in 1968 are gone and old. And this time, Mr. Buchannan follows her.
Nell was a character that I easily fell in love with. She was strong, caring and independent. She didn't let anyone change who she was. I loved watching her friendship grow with Jeremy. I loved Jeremy and I definitely want to know what happened to him. I also loved watched Nell's and Mr Buchannan's relationship grow and develop. Nell slowly realized that he wasn't all what she thought he was. That some of the secrets painted him in a new light once revealed. Mr. Buchannan really fell for Nell. He did whatever he had to do to make Nell his no matter how drastic it was. But that is where all the secrets lie. He did whatever he had to to protect Nell. I loved him for that. It was so nice to see his soft side.
Disturbingly Beautiful was an enthralling, beautiful story that will stay with you until the end of time. It will really pull at your heartstrings. I got teary eyed at the end, because I fell in love with the characters and the ending shocked me, but made complete sense. It was one of those endings that I should have seen coming but didn't. My jaw actually dropped and I had a complete OMG moment. Then I cried, but realized that that ending had to happen. But it ended happily and I loved that!!! I always have to have my HEAs. The only little issue I had was with the scenes of her losing her virginity. I couldn't tell whether those were actually a dream or real. I had to read a couple of the scenes twice to try and figure it out. But other than that, I enjoyed the book. I hope there is a sequel to this book, because the ending definitely left me wanting more. Disturbingly Beautiful is a book that I will definitely be rereading. It is a fantastic story and I highly recommend it!!!
December 3, 2014
1.5 stars
I'm not even sure where to start with this book, it was such a mess. The plot was confusing, the writing was overblown and the main character, Nell was unlikeable. I guess you can tell I didn't like it.
First the plot. I will admit that I was intrigued by the description of the book. I love time-travel stories but this just didn't work. Nell somehow stumbles into the 20th century. We're not given any clear explanation of how it happens or why. Jeremy, the man who brings her through to the 1960s, has found a way to travel back in time, but we don't know how he does it or why he is stealing objects from the house, Haunchcroft, that Nell lives in but which is a University in the 20th century, that Jeremy works at. See! Confusing. Nell then goes back to the 19th century where we discover some evil scheme has been hatched to marry Nell off to the youngest son of the Earl. At this point she runs away and ends up in the 21st century this time. I gave up at this point. I just couldn't read any more, it was giving me a headache and made me want to stab myself with something.
Now to the writing. I understand that the authors were trying to write in the style of the 19th century but they failed. Using lots of long words and adjectives in every sentence doesn't make you Jane Austen. You should also be careful if you are going to be overly descriptive that you choose the right words "purvey" does not mean the same thing as "convey". Here's a couple of examples of what I mean:
"Her doll-like complexion made its way into Jeremy's awaiting eyes"! This doesn't even make sense.
"His eyes almost pirouetted on their meeting". Just a tip, if you can't actually do the actions you are describing then don't use it.
I could go on but I won't.
Lastly, the characters, especially Nell, the "heroine". What a brainless ninny she is. There is absolutely nothing likeable about her. She doesn't seem to be able to make a decision about her feelings. One minute she's in love with Mr Buchanan and the next she hates him. Then she loves Jeremy but runs away from him. I think the thing that I found most annoying was that there was no motivation for the characters actions. We never get any real background or understanding of why the characters are behaving the way they are. What emotions are driving them to react to the situation they are in? Ultimately I couldn't connect with the characters and I really didn't care about them.
A good editor could have made this book infinitely more readable.
Give this one a miss.
Complementary copy provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not even sure where to start with this book, it was such a mess. The plot was confusing, the writing was overblown and the main character, Nell was unlikeable. I guess you can tell I didn't like it.
First the plot. I will admit that I was intrigued by the description of the book. I love time-travel stories but this just didn't work. Nell somehow stumbles into the 20th century. We're not given any clear explanation of how it happens or why. Jeremy, the man who brings her through to the 1960s, has found a way to travel back in time, but we don't know how he does it or why he is stealing objects from the house, Haunchcroft, that Nell lives in but which is a University in the 20th century, that Jeremy works at. See! Confusing. Nell then goes back to the 19th century where we discover some evil scheme has been hatched to marry Nell off to the youngest son of the Earl. At this point she runs away and ends up in the 21st century this time. I gave up at this point. I just couldn't read any more, it was giving me a headache and made me want to stab myself with something.
Now to the writing. I understand that the authors were trying to write in the style of the 19th century but they failed. Using lots of long words and adjectives in every sentence doesn't make you Jane Austen. You should also be careful if you are going to be overly descriptive that you choose the right words "purvey" does not mean the same thing as "convey". Here's a couple of examples of what I mean:
"Her doll-like complexion made its way into Jeremy's awaiting eyes"! This doesn't even make sense.
"His eyes almost pirouetted on their meeting". Just a tip, if you can't actually do the actions you are describing then don't use it.
I could go on but I won't.
Lastly, the characters, especially Nell, the "heroine". What a brainless ninny she is. There is absolutely nothing likeable about her. She doesn't seem to be able to make a decision about her feelings. One minute she's in love with Mr Buchanan and the next she hates him. Then she loves Jeremy but runs away from him. I think the thing that I found most annoying was that there was no motivation for the characters actions. We never get any real background or understanding of why the characters are behaving the way they are. What emotions are driving them to react to the situation they are in? Ultimately I couldn't connect with the characters and I really didn't care about them.
A good editor could have made this book infinitely more readable.
Give this one a miss.
Complementary copy provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2014
“Disturbingly Beautiful” review
J & L Wells
Nell was the governess to Mr Buchannan’s daughter Abigale. After Abigale succumbed to pneumonia Nell decided that with her education that maybe it was time to change what she did, it hurt too bad to lose someone that she cared so much for. Maybe she could teach instead it was something that she needed to decide but not right away. Mr Buchannan’s offer to her to stay until his sisters arrival and his recommendation for her to become governess to her child was something that she needed to think about. She decided to stick around but after the confession of finding her disturbingly beautiful that he told her she decided that she needed to stay away from him even though he was very pleasing looking he still made her uncomfortable. His sister would not arrive for a couple of weeks so she took this time to further her love for reading losing herself in the fictional stories. She did have a very vivid imagination and at times she found herself reliving one in particular. Finding her real TRUE love!
What did I like? The first thing that I like is that this is my favorite genre, time travel. Of course, it is even better when they include two things, romance and mystery. This story has just that. Starting out in the 1800’s is another era that I really like and intrigues me, also having the lead man very handsome does not hurt either.
What did I dislike? Well, the only thing I can think of is that the lead character was not me. I would love to first live during that time but second be able to time travel. Maybe it would be wise for me to start in the 21st century go back to the 18th though.
What will you like? You will find another well written story developed with vivid details and rich descriptions. You can tell the amount of research that this team does for their books because it shows in the details when they describe the locations and the clothes along with all the other minor events that happen. The clothes are the best, although I feel like I am standing in the same places that they write about. I can safely say that this team has mastered the genre of time travel. This book though tops all of their others. The plot is so involved and has so many twists and turns that when it ended I was totally amazed. I never saw that coming! I know that I along with many others have said that before but believe me when I say this… I NEVER saw that coming in my wildest dreams. I LOVED IT!!!!! Wow, it takes you for a ride that will really draw you in so deep and yet it was SO perfect. I cannot wait for the next book.
J & L Wells
Nell was the governess to Mr Buchannan’s daughter Abigale. After Abigale succumbed to pneumonia Nell decided that with her education that maybe it was time to change what she did, it hurt too bad to lose someone that she cared so much for. Maybe she could teach instead it was something that she needed to decide but not right away. Mr Buchannan’s offer to her to stay until his sisters arrival and his recommendation for her to become governess to her child was something that she needed to think about. She decided to stick around but after the confession of finding her disturbingly beautiful that he told her she decided that she needed to stay away from him even though he was very pleasing looking he still made her uncomfortable. His sister would not arrive for a couple of weeks so she took this time to further her love for reading losing herself in the fictional stories. She did have a very vivid imagination and at times she found herself reliving one in particular. Finding her real TRUE love!
What did I like? The first thing that I like is that this is my favorite genre, time travel. Of course, it is even better when they include two things, romance and mystery. This story has just that. Starting out in the 1800’s is another era that I really like and intrigues me, also having the lead man very handsome does not hurt either.
What did I dislike? Well, the only thing I can think of is that the lead character was not me. I would love to first live during that time but second be able to time travel. Maybe it would be wise for me to start in the 21st century go back to the 18th though.
What will you like? You will find another well written story developed with vivid details and rich descriptions. You can tell the amount of research that this team does for their books because it shows in the details when they describe the locations and the clothes along with all the other minor events that happen. The clothes are the best, although I feel like I am standing in the same places that they write about. I can safely say that this team has mastered the genre of time travel. This book though tops all of their others. The plot is so involved and has so many twists and turns that when it ended I was totally amazed. I never saw that coming! I know that I along with many others have said that before but believe me when I say this… I NEVER saw that coming in my wildest dreams. I LOVED IT!!!!! Wow, it takes you for a ride that will really draw you in so deep and yet it was SO perfect. I cannot wait for the next book.
January 22, 2015
A delightful read full of surprises!
3 Stars!
Series: Book 1: A Paradox in Time
Characters: Nell Dodsworth
Setting: 19th Century
Mature Themes: Sex
Recommendation: This was a delightful read, light and satisfying. If you enjoy romance and light historical pieces, reading this will be rewarding. If you're looking for a near perfect factual historical-sheet ripping romance, you will not find it here. This is suitable for YA and is equally enjoyable for older.
Nell Dodsworth is a young governess without a child to look after and in need of a letter of recommendation to help her escape the painful memories trapped in the manor she calls home. When the young master of the manor instead of granting her request confesses his love for her, Nell must stand strong and learn to listen to her heart. Nell's adventure is one of heartache, love, and self discovery. Through her accidental use of time travel where she meets a broken man looking to save himself through his time traveling, Nell learns to accept her fate and confront her suitor.
Nell's character is pretty typical for a woman in her native time period, easily influenced, mild mannered, and concerned with her modesty. As she time travels her stances change on all of those qualities and she begins to stand up for herself and even gives into her desires. It was an enjoyable character arc to read and one that felt believable, however, there were holes in it. Particularly in the time travel segments.
The act of actually time traveling was not explained nearly at all and left the reader unsure for a few paragraphs what time they were reading after the switches had occurred. Both characters that time traveled to the future from the past were also extremely accepting of the changes in the future from their time. There was very little awe and fear and both were quick to trust anyone the met in the future.
Though there was a love story, it was very light. Little to no romance, and Nell gave in to her forced destiny with the qualities of a woman of her time. Which I understand and agree with, but I was rooting for her to take charge, even if it would have been out of character.
I look forward to the second book in the series as I'm sure the author will continue to improve.
3 Stars!
Series: Book 1: A Paradox in Time
Characters: Nell Dodsworth
Setting: 19th Century
Mature Themes: Sex
Recommendation: This was a delightful read, light and satisfying. If you enjoy romance and light historical pieces, reading this will be rewarding. If you're looking for a near perfect factual historical-sheet ripping romance, you will not find it here. This is suitable for YA and is equally enjoyable for older.
Nell Dodsworth is a young governess without a child to look after and in need of a letter of recommendation to help her escape the painful memories trapped in the manor she calls home. When the young master of the manor instead of granting her request confesses his love for her, Nell must stand strong and learn to listen to her heart. Nell's adventure is one of heartache, love, and self discovery. Through her accidental use of time travel where she meets a broken man looking to save himself through his time traveling, Nell learns to accept her fate and confront her suitor.
Nell's character is pretty typical for a woman in her native time period, easily influenced, mild mannered, and concerned with her modesty. As she time travels her stances change on all of those qualities and she begins to stand up for herself and even gives into her desires. It was an enjoyable character arc to read and one that felt believable, however, there were holes in it. Particularly in the time travel segments.
The act of actually time traveling was not explained nearly at all and left the reader unsure for a few paragraphs what time they were reading after the switches had occurred. Both characters that time traveled to the future from the past were also extremely accepting of the changes in the future from their time. There was very little awe and fear and both were quick to trust anyone the met in the future.
Though there was a love story, it was very light. Little to no romance, and Nell gave in to her forced destiny with the qualities of a woman of her time. Which I understand and agree with, but I was rooting for her to take charge, even if it would have been out of character.
I look forward to the second book in the series as I'm sure the author will continue to improve.
January 13, 2015
When I first saw this book I though, WOW an amazing cover and I can’t wait to see what this book is about. Then I read the summery and thought it would be extremely interesting reading a story that involved time traveling; this was the first book that I have experienced with this.
There were three different time periods that the book traveled to; 1813, 1968 and 2014, all three very different from the other. During this time, the main character Nell had gone through a huge amount of growth, from being a naive woman to one who travel through time and found out new things about her life and what life could be in the future. I even think that I had seen some growth within Mr. Buchannan, who was very interesting to figure out.
I like that this book kept me guessing, I never knew what was going to happen next. All the plot twists were quite the shockers!!! I believe this is what made the book so enjoyable to me. I have read many books where I have not been shocked and surprised by the events that occurred and the ending, but this one definitely did.
There were three different time periods that the book traveled to; 1813, 1968 and 2014, all three very different from the other. During this time, the main character Nell had gone through a huge amount of growth, from being a naive woman to one who travel through time and found out new things about her life and what life could be in the future. I even think that I had seen some growth within Mr. Buchannan, who was very interesting to figure out.
I like that this book kept me guessing, I never knew what was going to happen next. All the plot twists were quite the shockers!!! I believe this is what made the book so enjoyable to me. I have read many books where I have not been shocked and surprised by the events that occurred and the ending, but this one definitely did.
November 28, 2014
well written story which unfolded with richly detailed descriptions, from the way the author describes the locations + eras and to even the way a character smelled just goes to show the great care they put into their work.. I loved reading about Nell, the heroine of the book,coming into her own. from the first chapter to the last chapter there was boundless amount of character growth for her and I truly appreciated that. I adored her friendship with Jeremy and her time in the 1960’s you could definitely empathize with her outsider feelings when it came to certain situations. The plot is itself is so worldbuilding that I was desperate to know even more about Jeremy’s time traveling abilities and why she was so susceptible to it all involved and has so many twists and turns that when it ended I was totally amazed. Like some other reviewers I never saw the ending coming!! it was like total shocker!! a definite must read!
November 20, 2014
3.5 stars
I'll start with I've never read a book in this genre before so I have no idea what to expect. I think readers who enjoy time-travel and historical romance will enjoy this so pick it up! :) That being said, I enjoyed this but I was confused at times. I was kind of all over the place (I'm not used to reading books set in 1800's) but I kept going. This book has some humor, romance and loss. And that cover is beautiful. I admit, I picked this up because of it. I don't know if my review will help because I'm not used to this type of genre so I don't know if the authors hit the mark on what they wanted to do but the writing was really good with details that the reader will enjoy.
I'd recommend this.
Complimentary copy provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I'll start with I've never read a book in this genre before so I have no idea what to expect. I think readers who enjoy time-travel and historical romance will enjoy this so pick it up! :) That being said, I enjoyed this but I was confused at times. I was kind of all over the place (I'm not used to reading books set in 1800's) but I kept going. This book has some humor, romance and loss. And that cover is beautiful. I admit, I picked this up because of it. I don't know if my review will help because I'm not used to this type of genre so I don't know if the authors hit the mark on what they wanted to do but the writing was really good with details that the reader will enjoy.
I'd recommend this.
Complimentary copy provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 6, 2014
I had the privelege and pleasure of reading an advance readers copy of this book. It is one of the best books I have read of it's genre in a long time. The characters are complex, the plot is captivating, and the subtle twists and turns of the plot make the book exciting to read from beginning to end. There is humour, heartbreak, deception, romance, anger, happiness and grief, this book has you feeling the gamut of all these emotions. Once I started the book I didn't want to put it down.
I absolutely recommend you read this, you won't be disappointed.
I absolutely recommend you read this, you won't be disappointed.
January 3, 2015
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrian-I Dig Good Books.
I don't like to write bad reviews, and if this had been one of my books, I would just have starred it. But its a read-for-review book, so I've got to give my honest opinion.
And here it is. I did not like it. At all. And whats bothering me the most is, I cannot pinpoint why.
Its relatively well written, with only minor spelling/editing errors, not enought to put me off. Its written from Nell's POV and only her's. I don't much like single person POV's but its not the reason here, that I dont like it.
I think, for me, the main issue is the plot. It didnt flow, it jumped and hopped from 1813 to 1969 back to 1813 then to 2014 and then back again to 1813. BUT I'm not really sure HOW she jumped from each time line and back again. Nell spent time in 1969 and she became accustomed to the way of thinking, speaking, acting and dressing of that time. YET when she returns to 1813, aside from finding her voice and speaking her mind, Nell reverts straight back to THAT time line's way of thinking. And that didn't feel right, at all, to me.
Its so clean, its almost spotless and I would quite happily let my 13 yr old daughter read it, if only for the historical content and how women were expected to behave in the early 1800's. I've filed it on the Young Adult shelf, and the Paranromal shelf, as I dont have a time travel shelf.
Some will, undoubtably, 5 stars this book. I cannot, however, in all honesty, and thats what being a reviewer is all about. Being honest.
2 stars
I don't like to write bad reviews, and if this had been one of my books, I would just have starred it. But its a read-for-review book, so I've got to give my honest opinion.
And here it is. I did not like it. At all. And whats bothering me the most is, I cannot pinpoint why.
Its relatively well written, with only minor spelling/editing errors, not enought to put me off. Its written from Nell's POV and only her's. I don't much like single person POV's but its not the reason here, that I dont like it.
I think, for me, the main issue is the plot. It didnt flow, it jumped and hopped from 1813 to 1969 back to 1813 then to 2014 and then back again to 1813. BUT I'm not really sure HOW she jumped from each time line and back again. Nell spent time in 1969 and she became accustomed to the way of thinking, speaking, acting and dressing of that time. YET when she returns to 1813, aside from finding her voice and speaking her mind, Nell reverts straight back to THAT time line's way of thinking. And that didn't feel right, at all, to me.
Its so clean, its almost spotless and I would quite happily let my 13 yr old daughter read it, if only for the historical content and how women were expected to behave in the early 1800's. I've filed it on the Young Adult shelf, and the Paranromal shelf, as I dont have a time travel shelf.
Some will, undoubtably, 5 stars this book. I cannot, however, in all honesty, and thats what being a reviewer is all about. Being honest.
2 stars
January 23, 2015
Check out my other reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
Before I even dive into this review, I think that it needs to be said that this cover is absolutely amazing. I loved it! Unfortunately, that's where my love for this book begins and ends.
Picking up this book, I had hoped for something like the historical romance novels that I love so much. But that wasn't what I got. The beginning was a bit boring and confusing, I never really knew why the character would be in one room one moment and then it would totally just skip to a part where she was in another room. It just didn't flow. At all. It was reminiscent of when I started driving ... pushing on the gas hard just to push on the brake hard and then I end up with whiplash, one less person willing to teach me to drive and the next door neighbor's cat is roadkill. The flow part made it incredibly boring. That being said, I think that the idea behind the book was really interesting. I haven't read anything like this and I ended up putting all of my eggs in one basket. Then the fluffy kid down the street sat on my basket and those eggs were toast.
I also thought that the future part was ... yep ... boring. And random. It was just in the 1800's and then all of the sudden, you're in the 1960's with this weird dude who doesn't even know what he's talking about. It was just weird.
I didn't connect with this one in the slightest. Not even a smidgen. I don't really have anything else constructive to say, so I'm going to stop while I'm ahead.
June 30, 2015
I received this book VIA NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Please excuse my rant but this is a joke! It's a joke right?
Stockholm Syndrome anyone?
I'm not into the whole time travel thing, and thanks to this book, I don't think I ever will be. There were way to many characters so you don't get to have a bond with any of them. All the men seem to be nothing but pigs and Nell had no backbone. She was weak and got kicked around and never fought back. It all just irritated me to no ends! And honestly through most of the book, it was information overload. There were thing just thrown in there to be there for no reason. It honestly put me to sleep. I wouldn't recommend this book. Even to time travel lovers. Sorry.
Please excuse my rant but this is a joke! It's a joke right?
Stockholm Syndrome anyone?
I'm not into the whole time travel thing, and thanks to this book, I don't think I ever will be. There were way to many characters so you don't get to have a bond with any of them. All the men seem to be nothing but pigs and Nell had no backbone. She was weak and got kicked around and never fought back. It all just irritated me to no ends! And honestly through most of the book, it was information overload. There were thing just thrown in there to be there for no reason. It honestly put me to sleep. I wouldn't recommend this book. Even to time travel lovers. Sorry.
December 8, 2014
"Disturbingly Beautiful," by J. And L. Wells is terrible. Awkward, overwrought wording is used in an attempt to capture early 19th century England. Unfortunately, it just interrupts the flow of reading with its oddness and incorrectly used words. The characters and story are poorly developed, so the story never gains traction and becomes interesting. The heroine is a mess, she drastically changes her opinions and behavior from moment to moment.
November 14, 2014
Disturbingly Beautiful was a glorious and rich read. I enjoyed it far better than The Untimely series, and I loved those books! With the perfect mix of regency and time travel elements, it makes for an enjoyable read. There's a few twists and turns that make you cry out and yell at the book. I totally recommend this to anyone.
December 10, 2014
I don't really like historical romance so I was liking the time travel aspects of this book better. The writing is good and the story is lush with description. Nell accidentally travels through time from the year 1813 to 1968. She adapts quickly to the future but poor Nell still has some troubles. I was feeling really sorry for her and wanted her to find her true love. 3.5 stars.
November 20, 2014
A brilliant book well written with a can't put it down storyline with a twist.
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