Pentallion

by Vanessa Blake

"I'D RATHER DIE!"

exclaimed Rosanna Pentallion at the suggestion by her dark, sensuous benefactor Dom Luiz that she live with him as his "ward." So saying, she fled her native Portugal to live on the Pentallion family estate in England.

But she found little refuge there. Her relatives were strangely sullen and hostile toward her, there were signs that Dom Luiz and his agents had come to England in search of her -and on the adjoining estate lived the one man in the world that Rosanna hated and feared more than Dom Luiz. Then the inexplicable "accidents" began. Rosanna had said that she would rather die than live in sin - and someone was taking her at her word!

Genres: Gothic

175 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1971

About the author

Pseudonym of May Brown

Reviews

[Mel]

Another title: Pentallion

[Antoinette · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Vanessa Blake has an excellent command of English: she writes cleanly, and she always finds the unexpected but perfect mot juste. Sometimes the writing is a bit dry and descriptive, however, but it works because it has an old-fashioned, Jane-Austen feel. The plot is classically Gothic and works well, but somehow it's not overly suspenseful -- nevertheless one finds one turning the pages quickly to find out what happens next. Both heroine and hero are well-defined and engaging, but neither are exceptional. I don't mean to be so negative! It's a good novel! I suppose the point is that when all the elements of a novel are decently solid but not "wow" (4 stars), an excellent command of English will elevate the finished product into something even greater (4.5 stars).

[Ambre · Rating 3 out of 5]

A true product of its time, this Gothic thriller/romance was an entertaining way to pass the time while travelling.

There is plenty of intrigue, dastardly deeds, and the most sedate romance I've read in a while. 😆

It was short, easy read that still managed to keep my attention.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was very good. The story pulled me in gradually, and then I couldn't put it down until I finished the book! I'm not sure where I aquired the book, but I'm very glad that I did, as I really enjoyed it.