Cadenza

Rockliffe #6

by Stella Riley

The performance finished in a flourish of technical brilliance and the young man rose from the harpsichord to a storm of applause.

Julian Langham was poised on the brink of a dazzling career when the lawyers lured him into making a catastrophic mistake. Now, instead of the concert platform, he has a title he doesn’t want, an estate verging on bankruptcy … and bewildering responsibilities for which he is totally unfitted.

And yet the wreckage of Julian’s life is not a completely ill wind. For Tom, Rob and Ellie it brings something that is almost a miracle … if they dare believe in it.

Meanwhile, first-cousins Arabella Brandon and Elizabeth Marsden embark on a daring escapade which will provide each of them with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The adventure will last only a few weeks, after which everything will be the way it was before. Or so they think. What neither of them expects is for it to change a number of lives … most notably, their own.

And there is an additional complication of which they are wholly unaware. The famed omniscience of the Duke of Rockliffe.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Audiobook, Fiction, Georgian

390 pages, Paperback

First published November 22, 2018

About the author

Stella Riley lives in Kent, England. She enjoys theatre, travel and playing the harpsichord.
Her award-winning 7 book Rockliffe series (recommended in The Times!) is available in audio, narrated by Alex Wyndham.
She is also the author of 6 books set in the 17th century: The Marigold Chain, A Splendid Defiance, The Black Madonna, Garland of Straw, The King's Falcon and Lords of Misrule.
All titles are available from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.
Rockliffe Book 6 - Cadenza - is the 2019 Readers' Favourite gold medallist for Historical Romance and also the 2021 Book Excellence Awards winner in the Romance category.

Reviews

[Mei]

Another winner!

Another book in this series with two great romances!

Arabella is rich, but doesn't want to go to London, while her cusin Elizabeth is poor but would like to go to London. While Arabella has a good reason for not wanting to go, Elizabeth just want to see how the glittering life is. So, what they do? Obviously they siwtch places! Elizabeth will go to London pretending to be Arabella, while Arabella will go in the country to be goveness/housekeeper for a widowed Earl.

But, while they think that will work well things don't go exaclty as they thought! LOL

The Earl is not a middle aged man with three children. He's young and beautiful, but very sweet, naive and painfully shy. While three children live in his house they're not his children, but by-blows of the former Earl who dreadfully neglected them and whome the present Earl, Julian, welcomed even if he's half way to bankruptcy and his house is coming apart!

I love how Ms. Riley makes the children behave like children and not miniature adults: here they were delightful, especially the youngest: Ella!

Arabella is startled, but intrigued. And as the story progress she's conquered by Julian's candid, sweet and honorable behaviour and actions.

Julian is one of the sweetest heros I've ever read in HR! He's so precious and endearing both when entranced with his music and when his shyness makes him awkward!

Meanwhile, Elizabeth has an carriage accident while travelling to London and is rescued by Ralph, Lord Sherbourne (his a villainous brother of Genevieve from Hazard) who's cold as ice and as welcoming too!

Forced by fate to travel together Elizabeth is intrigued. Unfortunately a ill timed encounter leaves Elizabeth almost compromised.

And here enters Rockliffe with his suave dukeness (yes, I know that it is not a word, but is should be just for him!) to save the day!

I just adore how Ms. Riley managed to write such a wonderfully intricate story with such sweetness and tenderness! She managed to redeem even Ralph Sherbourne, that I wanted to kill slowly in Hazard!!!

The dialogue is brilliant too! And funny too! Let me give you a couple of quotes...

"You won't be getting a valet yourself, then? (Rob, one of Julian's children)
"Not if I can help it. And certainly not one who wants to put pins in my hair." (Julian)
"He didn't!" said Rob, revolted.
"He did."
"Like a girl?"
"Yes." Feeling suddnly better, Julian grinned. "Do you think he does that to Rockliff?"

------------------------

"You might as well listen to somebody banging on cooking-pots", grumbled Max. (Max is Arabella's brother and Sebastian, the hero in The Wicked Cousin are taling about Julian after his concert) "Lord only nows how he gets away with it."
"It's the sort of thing that grows on you," grinned Sebastian.
"So are warts."

This could be read as a standalone, but you'll appreciate it more if you've read the previous books because here there're a lot of people you've met there and you already know how they act and think! I know I enjoyed meeting them again here!

This story was like one of Julian's compositions: skillful, intricate, whirling, tender, full of brillian dialogue and touching moments! Just PERFECT>/b>

[♥Sharon♥]

Oh how I enjoyed this one. Julian Langham was one of those hero’s that you couldn’t help but fall in love with. He was quiet, shy and ever so kind. His true passion was playing the harpsicord but within a blink of an eye he gave that up to do the right thing. He became Earl Chalfont (which was a bit daunting) and the guardian to three young children named Tom, Rob and Ellie. All of whom I came to adore. For me these three children really made this story extra special.

But Julian’s bleak outlook was about to change. Thanks to the good graces of two cousins that decided to change places. Fate would give Julian another chance at his dream. Not to mention the chance of finding true love.

Arabella Brandon and her cousin Elizabeth Marsden were faced with tending to something that neither wanted to do. Arabella had given their dilemma some thought and decided the best plan would be for Elizabeth to go to a London season instead of her and she in turn would take up a position within the Earl of Chalfont’s household. Each had their reasons for agreeing to the switch and it seemed as though it was a very simple solution. Little did they know that their relative the Duke of Rockliffe would quickly figure out their deceit.

I love being around Rockliffe. He is so gracious and commands your attention. It was also a lot of fun to have the others from the previous books present to help him defuse the situation surrounding Belle and Lizzie. I found the esteemed Rockcliffe to be rather funny…..albeit very dry humor!

I also enjoyed the romance that bloomed between Elizabeth and Lord Sherbourne. Unlike Julian he was rough around the edges. Slowly we were given glimpses of a kinder man. Elizabeth knew there was more to the him then just his brashness. I found them to be perfectly matched and sweet together. I just wish we got a little more time with them.

I’d be amiss if I didn’t mention how heavenly Alex Wyndham voice is. I would listen to anything he narrates! ❤

[Betty]

After five books in her fabulous Rockliffe series, Stella Riley is finally (and sadly) bringing the series to a close.

But what a swan song! CADENZA has two compelling love stories at its centre. And who knew that, as well as being an historian (English Civil War – more about that later) of some considerable repute, she is also a knowledgeable and talented musician who has quite simply astounded me with her scholarship, research, and personal knowledge of the world of classical music, and in particular, the harpsichord?

I am a huge fan of this author who is both an eloquent and creative writer, and each time we are treated to a new book there is never any danger of repetition. Cadenza is a feast for the senses and it’s a treat worth waiting for – from the first page to the last. Each book in the Rockliffe series is quite unique, apart from the ever-present, but fascinating characters who have each had their own stories told in preceding books and who are always in evidence and add something extra special as the series progresses.

Cadenza centres around the world of music with the main character, Julian Langham, being a gifted and supremely talented, harpsichordist – a virtuoso in fact. Julian’s character is unlike any other I have ever encountered in Historical Romance. Since he was old enough to reach a keyboard, he has studied and played almost to the exclusion of all else and was destined to be a musician. At the age of twenty-eight and just teetering on the brink of success in his career, his world of playing and composing is brought to an abrupt halt by a disreputable firm of lawyers who con him into putting his career on hold ‘briefly’ and leaving Vienna to return to the country of his birth to take responsibility for a crumbling, debt ridden estate, and an earldom he neither wants nor even knew he was heir to, so obscure was his claim.

Having lived in the world of music for most of his life, suddenly being faced with the reality of being responsible for his predecessor’s three feral illegitimate offspring and his bewildered tenants, and with debts and problems he cannot ever hope to meet or solve, has the effect on him of being doused by a bucket of cold water, especially when he realises there is no going back. The only tiny (and it is minute) light is a badly abused harpsichord which has been left in a sadly neglected state and is in pieces in the library. At the end of each long, hard day toiling on the estate, Julian begins to painstakingly restore it. Not only is Stella Riley a musician, but she has also carefully researched – with quite remarkable understanding – the inner workings of this instrument which shows in the terminology she uses as she describes Julian slowly beginning to restore it to working order.

Julian may be gentle and slightly vague but he has an honestness, as rigid as a streak of iron, running through his backbone and, although he may not know what to do, he can’t be faulted for failing to do his best – rolling up his sleeves and working alongside his tenants – all the while slowly dying inside without his beloved music to sustain him. His obvious integrity and his determination not to increase rents, even though he desperately needs the money, earns him the respect of the locals and his tenants, not least the local doctor and his wife who befriend and help him as he flounders from one crisis to another. The children, whom he has tracked down and ensconced in the dilapidated nursery, are in turns angry and mistrustful, apart from the youngest, Ellie, who simply accepts him at face value. Tom and Rob are older, and Tom in particular – the twelve-year-old, self-elected protector of the threesome – doesn’t trust his motives. Why should Julian want them? No one has ever cared or wanted them before. Watching him win the boys’ trust, especially Tom’s, is heart-warming. Julian doesn’t employ artifice, he doesn’t know how to – he’s simply himself. In fact, it is his wholly innocent and sincere attitude in his dealings with the children which highlights the kind of man he truly is.

The doctor and his wife realise that Julian needs help, especially with the children and the running of his home, so they propose he employs a housekeeper-cum-governess and set about advertising for a suitable candidate. Elizabeth (Lizzie) Marsden, who wishes to help her family out financially, applies and, after some correspondence, in which she infers a greater age and experience than she has, is offered the position for a trial period. No-one could predict the outcome this action precipitates – a series of events, which once set into motion, escalates and forever changes Julian’s life and those of the children.

Meanwhile another drama is playing out at the home of Arabella Brandon, youngest of the four siblings at Brandon Lacey, where Arabella (Belle) has received the news that she has been jilted, after a three-year betrothal to her soldier fiancé who has not returned from the Colonial wars, instead marrying and settling in America. Her family, in particular her mother, want her to go to London for the season and she is reluctant to do so. She’s far from broken-hearted by the blow her ex-fiancé has dealt her, but, for reasons of her own, is not interested in husband hunting at present. Her closest friend, Lizzie, who happens to be her first cousin, would love a season in London but her clergyman father forbids it, even though the Duke of Rockliffe, a distant cousin of the girls’ mothers’, is happy to sponsor both of them with the aid of his Duchess. Lizzie, a dutiful daughter, realises the futility of trying to persuade her father and has instead begun the process of finding suitable employment.

Belle is the most outgoing and vivacious of the two cousins and I was drawn to her immediately. She is, of course, the one who proposes the outrageous plan which will benefit both of them – she will take up the position Lizzie has just been offered as housekeeper/governess to the children of the Earl of Chalfont and Lizzie will travel to London as the guest of the duke and duchess. The only fly in the ointment being that they must take on the guise of each other. Of course, neither girl gives much thought to the cause and effect of their actions, although to be fair it takes some persuading on Belle’s part. But, eventually realising that it will give Belle some much-needed breathing space, Lizzie agrees and at least she will get her season. After their adventure, the girls will simply return to their old lives – not quite so simple, as we discover.

All goes to plan to begin with. The girls swap clothes, prime Belle’s reluctant lady’s maid and set off together. They part ways some distance from Brandon Lacey as agreed and each travel to their respective destination. Matters start to go awry when Belle arrives at Chalfont and the doctor who meets her is surprised to see how much younger she is than her letter indicated. Even worse, Julian is horrified as she is ‘far too pretty’ and he considers sending her packing. The doctor talks him into giving her a trial period, as she has already won him over with her forthright and practical manner. Julian has had limited experience with the opposite sex and is, quite frankly, terrified of women. He initially appears rude although Belle later realises, with some surprise, that he is simply painfully shy. The truth is that Julian is deeply affected by Belle, much to his consternation. He is the one who thinks her ‘far too pretty’, whereas most people, including the doctor, think her ‘passably pretty’. A clear case of ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’. Not only is she ‘much too pretty’ but her warm, infectious laugh ‘does something to his insides’. I loved this and it is mentioned quite a few times throughout the story – he finds himself aware of her laugh and waits for it – it lifts his spirits and he is always affected in the same way. Of course, as a musician with a highly developed sense of hearing, he would notice such a thing whereas most others wouldn’t. The spark between them is definitely there, and Ms. Riley grows it slowly and sensitively until both are equally smitten with the other. Belle has grown up with three handsome brothers and is therefore not immediately taken in by Julian’s undeniable gorgeousness. But he has something rare which she’s drawn to – he’s totally unaware of his own physical appeal. He never attempts to dress up, in fact, most of the time, he’s downright scruffy, his hair overlong and untidy. She is impressed by his innate kindness, gentleness and thoughtfulness and moved by his complete disregard for what others may think of his taking in three illegitimate children and more – actually loving them.

When Belle realises the extent of his musical talent and what the lack of performing is doing to him, she is resolved to do something for him. It doesn’t take her long to learn that he will shrivel up and die emotionally if he is denied his music. She sets her mind to thinking of ways to help him with the estate. Having grown up at Brandon Lacey observing her brothers using tried and tested methods, set in motion during the English Civil War by their Great-Great-Grandfather, Gabriel, she is resolved to beg her eldest brother’s assistance. Extremely astute, Belle realises that to perform – as he must – Julian needs an estate running in the black to free him for what life intended for him. Belle is on a mission and that’s because she’s finally in love. Eventually the two share a kiss, no more, but it is sensual and loving and both realise that something monumental has occurred. Stella Riley does this so well – she can imply sensuality and sexuality without the need for explicit bedroom scenes.

As Belle is settling into Chalfont, Lizzie has a roadside catastrophe when her coach is damaged and she narrowly avoids serious injury obliging her to accept help from a passing traveller. Ralph, Earl of Sherbourne, isn’t too pleased that his journey has been interrupted by a dripping wet maiden in distress. But, being the consummate gentleman, he does what he must. In the end, with the roads impassable because of heavy rain, Lizzie is forced to spend two nights in his company. All goes well and nothing of importance happens, other than Lizzie becoming more and more intrigued by Ralph’s dark and brooding attractiveness, but he is uncommunicative, preferring to read his Greek copy of the Iliad than converse, except when he must. He does nothing that Lizzie could take an exception to. In short, he does not compromise her other than unwittingly and unwillingly having to escort her to safety. Lizzie is unaware that Ralph has a scandalous past and, without warning, it rises up to bite both of them. They are seen by two ladies travelling in the opposite direction who have stopped for refreshments at the same inn; these ladies put two and two together and come up with five. Sparks fly, especially as one of them quite evidently knows him well.

Stella Riley has set herself quite a task, Ralph Sherbourne is not a character I thought to be redeemable. In Hazard he treated his half-sister, Genevieve, quite abominably. However, there is so much more to him than meets the eye and the circumstances surrounding the reasons why society shunned him are revealed, although only in confidence to Rockliffe who consequently has a new respect for him. Plus, against the odds, Lizzie likes him and refuses to believe badly of him. It is this unadulterated acceptance of him which surprises and sees him start to thaw from the austere, unapproachable man he has always been. I sensed his deep, black loneliness, keenly. I felt deeply sorry for him, especially when we see him with the Rockliffe ‘gang’ and he secretly envies the camaraderie they share, something he has never experienced. From detesting him in Hazard, I now wanted him to be happy and it seems that vicarage bred Lizzie could be the one so this was quite a turnabout. Ms. Riley couldn’t make everyone love him – that would have been totally implausible, but she’s done an excellent job in at least beginning his redemption with the help of Lizzie. He is understandably bitter – no one has ever believed in him, especially without knowing the facts of his duel and the reasons for it, which when revealed are quite shocking. I certainly didn’t see it coming. There is one particular scene, which again I can’t go into, but which had me rooting for Lizzie and Ralph as she nails her colours to the mast – superb! Ms. Riley at her best.

By now the fat is in the fire for both girls – their subterfuge has been discovered – how could it not? Rock is omniscient and never misses a trick. Once they are unmasked, there is so much to be sorted out to avoid irreversible damage to the reputations of both girls. I won’t go into how, where or what, as this is such a complex story and so deliciously different. And you, dear reader, need to absorb and enjoy! Let’s just say that, as usual Rock is a ‘rock’. His humour, dry wit and urbanity steal the show (I know I say this in every review, but it’s so true and Ms Riley didn’t name this series Rockliffe for nothing).

I promised earlier to mention the Brandon Lacey connection. Fans of Stella Riley will most probably have read her English Civil War series. If not – please do – you will not be disappointed. I myself have only just completed Garland of Straw in which Gabriel and Venetia Brandon are the hero and heroine of that amazing story and are the Great-Great-Grandparents of the current younger generation and I absolutely adored it. My point is, however, that Gabriel was almost bankrupt himself and, using his common sense, set in motion a method of farming which was highly successful and has by the time of Cadenza been used for generations. Belle persuades her brother, Max, to help Julian. I found the connection fascinating and, if I hadn’t read Garland, would probably have just skirted over it. And, by the way, having just mentioned Belle’s eldest brother Max… oh my! Please, please, Ms. Riley, having given us a taste of this gorgeous man – we need more!

Two compelling romances – although my favourite was Julian and Belle, only because they are a couple like no other. And just wait until you see Julian in musical action. I can say no more, other than, gone is the awkward, self-deprecating man and I can honestly guarantee that your heart will melt.

I believe the author intends to develop the Brandon connection (there are three unmarried brothers). I do hope so because I’m not ready to say goodbye to Rock and co. yet.

MY VERDICT: Another amazing story in this memorable series and one I shall read/listen to over and over and never tire of. Highly recommended.

[Caz]

4.5 stars

This sixth book in Stella Riley’s Georgian Era Rockliffe series introduces a handful of new characters and, as in Hazard (book five), weaves together a pair of romances. While the seemingly omniscient Duke of Rockliffe has a pivotal role to play in them both and there are cameo appearances by characters from the other books in the series, Cadenza works very well as a standalone;  anyone new to the series and unfamiliar with all the relationships and strong ties of friendship among Rockliffe’s set of friends and relations will be able to enjoy the novel without needing to have read the rest of the series. (Although you really should, because they’re all excellent reads!)

A harpsichordist of virtuosic skill, Julian Langham has devoted his life to music, focusing on achieving his ambition of being a concert performer while pursuing his studies before finally getting his big break.  Julian makes his concert début in Vienna and receives a rapturous reception, leaving him poised on the brink of the career he’s dreamed of.  Still giddy with joy, Julian is brought quickly down to earth by news he neither expects nor wants.  He is informed that he is the fifth Earl of Chalfont and that he must return to England at once.  Julian refuses.  He doesn’t want to be an earl and doesn’t care what happens to the title; he’s Julian Langham, musician, and that’s all he wants to be.  But he’s persuaded that all he needs to do is to sign some papers and put the earldom’s affairs in order – after that he can return to Europe and to his musical career.

But of course, it doesn’t work out that way.

Completely unequipped to be an earl, let alone to administer a large, debt-ridden estate, Julian has no idea what to do after his lawyers leave him in the lurch.  The estate is entailed, and there is nothing of value left to sell to raise funds in the short-term; Chalfont Hall is in a dreadful state of disrepair, the lands have been neglected, the tenant’s homes are dilapidated, and the old earl’s reputation as a debauchee and defiler of women means that Julian is viewed with intense suspicion by the locals.  When Julian discovers that his predecessor left three young, illegitimate children without provision, he does the only thing that makes sense to him and takes them in, although they continue to run wild about the village and generally make nuisances of themselves.  But the worst thing, by far, is that the only musical instrument in the house – an old harpsichord – is completely unplayable, and without the ability to make music, Julian is slowly dying inside.

At Brandon Lacey in Yorkshire, (anyone familiar with the author’s Roundheads and Cavaliers series of historical romances set during the English Civil War will no doubt find themselves smiling at the references to Gabriel and Venetia from Garland of Straw as we catch up with the family a few generations on), Arabella Brandon is hoping to avoid a London Season.  Still smarting after her fiancé of three years – an army officer currently stationed in America – married another woman completely out of the blue, Bella has become rather withdrawn and content to hide herself away, believing herself unmarriageable because she and her betrothed anticipated their vows before he left with his regiment. When her mother tells her she has written to the Duchess of Rockliffe – a distant relation – to ask if she will sponsor Bella’s début, and that of her cousin, Bella becomes a little more enthused, reasoning that even if she can’t marry, at least Elizabeth deserves the chance to find herself a good husband.

But Elizabeth Marsden is facing a very different prospect.  The eldest of the three daughters of the local vicar, she doesn’t expect to marry and has instead decided to ease her family’s financial burdens by seeking a position.  She responds to an advertisement for a mature lady required to oversee the running of a gentleman’s establishment and also regulate the care of young children and is surprised to receive a response offering her the position for a trial period.

When the Duchess of Rockliffe offers to sponsor both girls in London, Bella is delighted - but that is short-lived when Elizabeth tells her that her father will not accept the duchess’ offer.  Disappointed, Elizabeth tells Bella she has accepted the post she has been offered at Chalfont Hall in Nottinghamshire; after all, if she is going to have to work for her living, she might as well get started and get used to it.

But Bella isn’t going to just drop the idea of Elizabeth’s getting a chance to experience what London has to offer and comes up with an audacious plan.  She and her cousin are about the same age and size, and nobody outside their immediate locale has met them – certainly not the Rockliffes or any of the people they are likely to meet in London, and definitely not Elizabeth’s new employer.  She suggests they swap places for a few weeks - until the end of Elizabeth’s trial period – so that Elizabeth can experience some of what London has to offer and Bella can avoid the marriage mart.  At first, Elizabeth is horrified at the idea – it’s far too risky and it will never work – but eventually she allows herself to be persuaded, and all too soon, it’s time to depart.

Bella’s journey goes smoothly, but not so Elizabeth’s.  When the carriage she is travelling in veers off the road into a ditch, she and her maid are rescued by a passing gentleman and his servant and conveyed to the nearest inn.  Elizabeth’s rescuer introduces himself as Ralph, Lord Sherbourne, and he clearly isn’t the sort of man to inspire warmth or friendly feelings.  He’s darkly handsome but rather cold and aloof, and clearly isn’t pleased at the interruption to his journey, but as a gentleman, could do no less.  Unfortunately, however, the terrible weather that caused the accident continues and means that Elizabeth and Sherbourne are forced to spend a couple of days in one another’s company, which could put Elizabeth’s reputation at risk.

Meanwhile, Bella arrives at Chalfont to discover that her employer is not the older gentleman she had expected, but is a heartbreakingly beautiful and somewhat unworldly young man who doesn’t seem to know how to dissemble and says exactly what he thinks.  But then, she’s not at all what Julian had expected either – she’s too young, too beautiful and too terrifying; women tie his stomach and his tongue in knots and he is inclined to ask her to leave, but his friend –the local doctor – points out that he needs help in the house and with the children and that he should at least allow her to complete her trial period.  Julian – somewhat reluctantly - agrees, and although he finds interacting with her difficult at first, he quickly finds himself looking forward to seeing her and to spending time in her company.  ‘Lizzie’, as she has asked to be called, is surprisingly easy to talk to and seems to understand so much about him and his need for music in his life; she listens to him, gently draws him out, and before long he’s tumbled head-over-heels in love for the first time in his life.

Although both romances get pretty much equal page time, I admit that I found myself more invested in Elizabeth’s with Sherbourne, mostly because tall, dark and sarcastic is my catnip and I was eager to see how Ms. Riley was going to redeem him and turn him into a romantic hero, considering he was such a git to Genevieve (his half-sister) in Hazard. Needless to say, she does it with aplomb, giving readers more background about his relationship with the two good-for-nothing brothers he keeps having to haul out of the messes they make, and about the woman he’d loved and intended to marry who turned out to have been manipulating him in order to conceal a particularly unpleasant secret.  It’s not your typical ‘she-done-him-wrong-so-he-has-sworn-off-women’ trope; Sherbourne is certainly emotionally walled-off, but there are pretty good reasons for that, and it quickly becomes clear that while his reputation is somewhat tarnished, he is a decent man who is nowhere near as black as he is painted.

Pulling the strings and putting all the puzzle pieces together is Rockcliffe, one of the few among the plethora of dukes in today’s historical romance who is actually and properly ducal.  He can be arrogant and is fully aware of what is owed him courtesy of his position, but he’s also fair, compassionate and fiercely loyal to those he cares for.  He’s prepared to allow himself to be the butt of society’s jokes and goes to great length to protect Elizabeth’s reputation, drawing Sherbourne into his inner circle for her sake (and allowing him to remain there for his.)  One thing worth noting is that there is no villain in this novel – well, not in the sense of someone who is out to do harm to our heroes and heroines.  Instead, Arabella and Elizabeth are faced with the censure of society, its rumourmongers and its insatiable desire for gossip, Julian is the victim of his own generous nature and Ralph loved unwisely and bears the weight of a reputation that he doesn’t deserve.

Ms. Riley skilfully interweaves her different storylines together while displaying her customary eye for period detail and for creating engaging characters it’s easy to care about and root for.  She’s clearly done her research when it comes to Julian’s musical abilities and repertoire, definitely captured Julian’s dedication and that sometimes otherworldliness that can be associated with those who are intensely gifted and creative.  I very much liked the contrast we were given between the Julian who was trying to find his feet as an earl, and the ultra-confident, assertive man he became when performing; off stage, he’s endearing, on it, he’s compelling, and with time and experience that’s the man Julian is capable of becoming in everyday life as well.

The one problem I had with the book was with the character of Arabella. I can’t think of another heroine by this author that I haven’t liked, but I just couldn’t warm to her.  And that being the case, I wasn’t as invested in the romance between her and Julian as I’d like to have been - and much as it pains me to say it - I found their chemistry somewhat lacking.

Fortunately, the romance between Elizabeth and Sherbourne has plenty of chemistry, and ultimately, Cadenza’s many good points far outweigh that one drawback.  Extremely readable with a pair of very different but likeable heroes and a fabulous supporting cast, the writing bristles with intelligence, warmth and humour and I’m more than happy to recommend the novel to fans of the author’s and of historical romance in general.

[OLT]

For the first two thirds of this story I was absolutely delighted. There's so much to like: (1) Two romances with appealing characters, (2) a connection to Riley's English Civil War novel GARLAND OF STRAW, (3) the Duke of Rockliffe, (4) clever use of music and the harpsicord, (5) heartwarming, and not annoying, inclusion of children, (6) the Duke of Rockliffe, (7) Riley's top-notch writing, and (8) the Duke of Rockliffe.

First, the romances. There are two and at first I thought they were planned to be both of equal importance. 20-something females Arabella Brandon, sister of a baron and great-great-great granddaughter of Gabriel and Venetia of GARLAND OF STRAW, and her cousin Elizabeth Marsden, a vicar's daughter, are both invited to the Duke of Rockliffe's home in London for their come-outs, to be sponsored by him and his wife.

Belle does not want to go because she had been jilted by her fiance with whom she had anticipated their marriage vows and, now no longer a virgin, she doesn't feel comfortable on the marriage mart. Lizzie would love to go to London but her staid and inflexible father will not allow it, so she has made plans to accept a job as housekeeper/governess in the household of the Earl of Chalfont in Nottinghamshire. What to do, they wonder. Well, Belle has the great idea that they should change places and identities, since no one at Chalfont Hall or in London knows them.

So off Belle goes to work for the Earl of Chalfont and Lizzie continues on to London and the home of Rockliffe. On the way to London, Lizzie's coach overturns and she is helped by a rather begrudging rescuer, Ralph Harcourt, the Earl of Sherbourne and half brother of Genevieve, one of the heroines of the previous book, HAZARD. Ralph was a bit of an antihero in HAZARD so, needless to say, his rescue of Lizzie and his delivery of her to London is looked upon less as a rescue than as damage to her reputation. This will require some repair work by Rockliffe et al.

All the while Lizzie is starting to have feelings for Sherbourne and he starts to...something. It's hard to pinpoint exactly what he can and cannot feel. He's described in the book as someone who has "shut his emotions away where he can't find them...almost as if he's observing the world from behind a glass wall."

Meanwhile, Belle has arrived at Chalfont Hall, meets the new earl, Julian Langham, a handsome, young, virtuoso harpsicordist who had been living in Vienna for seven years previously, and his wards, illegitimate children of the former earl. Julian is a total introvert lacking in social graces. Introverted and awkward, that is, except when he puts his hands to the harpsicord and becomes a confident, dazzlingly brilliant musician.

Julian is a very reluctant new earl. He was tricked into believing that his stay in England would be short and that he would soon be back in Vienna doing what he loves. But not so and he is quite despondent. The lack of music and musical instruments is drying up his soul. However, there is an old harpsicord at the hall, but it needs a complete and total reworking, something Julian is doing little by little, with great, painstaking care.

So there we have a lovely metaphor of the harpsicord representing Julian's life which now must be reworked by him to include the responsibilities of Chalfont Hall and the three children he is now guardian to and, somehow, there needs to be a way to integrate music into this to feed his soul. Belle will figure beautifully into his new reconfigured life with the children. And you'll find Belle's brother Max and Rockliffe doing their parts also to help.

Belle and Julian's romance is touching and moves along beautifully, and the romance between Belle's cousin Lizzie and Ralph, Earl of Sherbourne, started out very well also. It looked to be one of those opposites-attract romances, Lizzie acting very much as one would expect a vicar's daughter to act and Ralph being Ralph, with a somewhat unsavory reputation, a death-by-duel of a friend in his past, and him the subject of frequent gossip because of his supposed dealings with women.

But along the way it felt as if Riley decided to make it a very secondary love story and she began to give it short shrift by about the 60% mark. To put it in musical terms, Riley left soft pedaled the romance. It began "animato, con spirito" and ended up "decrescendo, ritardando", as if Riley had become bored with Lizzie and Ralph. I do understand becoming bored with Lizzie, but with Ralph? He was not a boring man. Well, we do get to learn more about his relationships with his siblings and the truths behind that tragic duel, but the romance that I thought was going to sizzle more than Belle and Julian's, instead fizzled out.

So what had at first felt like a 5-star read went "diminuendo" to a 4-star one. It's still much better than the majority of historical romances and very much worth the read. Stella Riley is in my top handful of HR authors I will automatically buy.

[Jan]

3 to 3.5 stars. I liked the read, but it wasn't completely successful for me. Without giving spoilers, the basic trope was a bit of a stretch for me. It was one of those 'suspend your disbelief' stories. The setup was just something I personally found unlikely, and a little hard to believe that it would occur in this way. There were two parallel stories (which I don't mind) but unfortunately it became a little confusing. Sadly I soon began mixing up the characters of cousins Arabella and Elizabeth. Which one is she again? I kept asking myself.

The music theme was quite nice, although I think for some readers the music terminology may be a little confusing at times. And it's always difficult to convey the depth and emotion of music in a book (cos it's a BOOK!) but the author gave it a decent try, and it's done better here than it sometimes is.

I found the ending of the book a little unsatisfying. Both couples are clearly going to have a HEA, but we only get to actually see one of them. The other disappears into the ether. I don't know why the author did this. I was really looking forward to the wedding of OOPS I'm not sure which cousin! but not the one who married Chalfont. I would like to have seen the wedding of my preferred couple, but the book just suddenly ended. What??

Three children featured in the book. I quite like this normally, but somehow I didn't really like these particular children that much, and I found myself wishing a little that they weren't there as characters. (I know I'm getting picky, but I'm trying to be honest here about my reactions to the book, and why it wasn't 4 or 5 stars for me.)

We do get to see a bit of Rockliffe in this book, although somehow I didn't like him quite as much in this book. He was supposed to be 'omniscient', but for me he came perilously close to appearing arrogant and egotistical. We also caught up with quite a few of the other characters from previous books, which was nice if, like me, you've read other books in the series.

This book was pretty much a 'clean', traditional style HR. We don't go beyond the bedroom door unless the couple is married, and then it's either fade-to-black, or else quite euphemistic. The wedding day sex scene between Chalfont and his new wife relied heavily on a musical metaphor which sadly I found a little pretentious, and it didn't really work for me. I'm not going to enjoy a romantic sex scene if I'm rolling my eyes.

So I did like the read, but it wasn't totally satisfying. I think my fav out of this series is still The Wicked Cousin.

[Lady Wesley]

Stella Riley writing. Alex Wyndham narrating. Of course, it's five stars.

This is the final book in Riley's Rockcliffe series, and every volume has been a joy to listen to. Treat yourself and listen to them all in order.

[Karen]

Adagio grazioso . . . legato ostinato.
Long exquisite moments of resonance; breathing as one, feeling as one . . . being one.
The stars, perfectly aligned and in tune.

Accelerando ma non troppo . . . cantabile.
Then, all too soon and impossible to resist, appassionata con fuoco.
And finally, tumbling effortlessly over the cliff . . . volante.

Loved it, even more than I expected! This one is definitely one of my favorites in the series so far. I didn't want to put it down. Loved the addition of the children to the story, and the dual romance as well. Rockliffe never fails to impress us with his high handed domination over all. My only disappointment was where she left us off regarding Elizabeth and Lord Sherbourne. While Arabella and Julian got their moment of passion, I felt cheated out of Lizzie and Ralph's.

And as usual Alex Wyndham dazzles with his 'sexiest voice alive' narration. Will read anything SR writes.

[Carol Cork *Young at Heart Oldie*]

Cadenza is the sixth and sadly the final book in the superb Rockliffe series and, as I have come to expect from Stella Riley, I was totally enchanted by this beautifully written story.

In this series, Ms. Riley has created some of the most memorable heroes and Julian definitely belongs to their exalted ranks. He is such a complex character and surely one of the most refreshingly unusual heroes to grace the pages of a Historical Romance. He is gentle, kind and shy, with a sweet smile, guaranteed to pierce even the stoniest heart. But what a dramatic transformation when he plays the harpsichord – gone is the hesitant, socially awkward young man and, in his place, is someone who is relaxed, confident and totally in command.

Music is paramount in Julian’s life and he would willingly have given up the earldom to fulfil his musical ambitions. So, it speaks volumes for the man he is – honourable, compassionate and selfless – when, despite being totally out of his depth, he refuses to turn his back on the estate workers, even working alongside them when they are shorthanded, or to abandon his predecessor’s three illegitimate children. It is heart-warming to see how everyone around Julian has such affection for him. As Max, Arabella’s brother, comments…

“The children idolise him; his servants and the villagers think the sun shines out of him; Belle’s totally besotted and Mother wants to adopt him. How does he do it?’

I put it down to Ms. Riley’s ability to create such an endearing character who effortlessly steals your heart by just being himself.

The romance between Julian and Isabella (Belle) develops slowly which makes it feel natural and believable. Young ladies like Belle have always terrified Julian, leaving him tongue-tied and feeling like a fool. Initially he is wary of her, but soon discovers that Belle is not like the other ladies he has known with their lingering, speculative glances. He finds that he can talk to her without feeling clumsy and foolish and her warm, melodic laugh is like music to his ears.

…a laugh which made his insides uncurl and yearn to hear it again in order to recapture the elusive phrase it had brought to mind. A rondo in a bright key, he decided. G major, perhaps?

I love Belle and she is the perfect match for Julian with her cheerfulness, determination, resilience and obstinate streak. When she sees him struggling to keep the impoverished estate going, she tries to help in practical ways and recognising that, without his music, there will always part of Julian missing, she is determined to help him achieve his dream of becoming a concert performer.

Ms. Riley’s eloquent writing conveys their growing feelings for each other so beautifully.

His arms went round her automatically and for perhaps three seconds, they remained perfectly still, startled green eyes locked with grey ones in which laughter was fading into confused awareness.

In the second his mouth touched hers, the entire world was full of music … rare, elusive and utterly compelling. A melody more beautiful that any he had ever either heard or even imagined.

Again, we are treated to two romances running concurrently, the other being a secondary romance between Elizabeth (Lizzie) and Ralph Harcourt, Earl of Sherbourne. Those who have read Hazard will remember Sherbourne as Genevieve’s loathsome brother and it was hard to imagine how Ms. Riley could possibly redeem him. It is a mark of her skill as a writer that she redeems him without changing his intrinsic character. The gradual revealing of his past is masterfully done and the truth surrounding the duel was an unexpected twist and one I would never have suspected. I found myself not only sympathising with Ralph but also rooting for his Happy Ever After.

Lizzie is beautiful, honest, modest and warm-hearted. I admire her for refusing to take Ralph at face value and seeing something behind his chilly exterior that makes her believe he is not as black as he is painted. She believes in him and trusts him which means so much to Ralph because no one else ever has. She is also aware of his intense loneliness and the way he has walled off his emotions and one of the loveliest moments is when she says…

“But impeccable manners are your shield and armour, aren’t they?’
‘What?”
“And very effective they are, too.”
She rose to face him, hoping she looked calmer than she felt. “But you don’t need them with me. I could quite easily love the man they are hiding if only you would let me know him.”

I thought it was realistic that Aristide and Genevieve were never going to suddenly forgive Ralph, given his actions in Hazard, but I was pleased to see the hint of a possible future reconciliation.

Ms. Riley’s secondary characters always add richness and depth to her stories, whether they be much-loved characters from previous books or new characters. Tom, Rob and Ellie (not forgetting Figgy), the children whom Julian ‘adopts’, are just delightful and watching him gain their trust, loyalty and love, by just being himself, is so touching. I really like Max Brandon who is the sort of elder brother every girl should have and with a great sense of humour as well.

As always, the all-seeing, all-powerful Rockliffe is there to take charge and deal with the consequences of Belle and Lizzie’s deception in his inimitable way. I love how, beneath that ducal exterior, lies a man who can be kind, unbiased, generous and loyal to a fault when it comes to those he cares for. We see these qualities in the way he bestows his patronage on Julian and his belief in and support for Sherbourne. Oh, and I also love his dry wit.

“Pomp and magnificence? Do we have some of that?”
“You have a great deal of it”, grinned his wife.
“Really? How gratifying.”

Ms. Riley’s musical background and her in-depth research really show in her detailed descriptions of both the harpsichord, its workings and Julian’s repertoire. I love how she makes you feel as if you are in the room listening to him play and experiencing all the emotions his audience are. Under ‘Extras’ on her website, Ms. Riley has provided full details of the repertoire and, so readers can experience Julian playing, there is an opportunity to hear one of the pieces played by Jean Rondeau, a young, French harpsichord virtuoso. Now, that is what I call going above and beyond the call of duty for her readers!

I have yet to read Garland of Straw, the second book in Ms. Riley’s Roundheads and Cavaliers series, but I was interested to see in the Author’s Note that Arabella’s great-great-grandparents are Gabriel and Venetia, the hero and heroine of that book.

While I am sad to see this wonderful series end, I am waiting with relish for whatever Ms. Riley pens next.

MY VERDICT: A wonderful ending to this superb series. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.


Rockliffe series (click on the book covers for more details):




This review was first posted on the Rakes and Rascals blog:

https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...

[Piper]

I totally, completely and utterly adored this 6th in the Rockcliffe series. Another double romance that had me swooning and laughing out loud. Between Stella Riley’s superb writing and fabulous characters as well as Alex Wyndham’s delectably, dreamy narration - I was in book heaven!! My only complaint, if you will, was that Elizabeth and Lord Sherbourne’s story was not complete and left the reader hanging. That along with the absence of an epilogue was disappointing. I am hoping this will be remedied with a seventh installment.

[Meg]

October 2021 listen: (downgraded to) 4 STARS
Having purchased the audiobook version to enjoy some of my favorite characters (who am I kidding I just wanted to listen to Ralph Sherbourne for 12 hours) masterfully brought to life by Alex Wyndham, I became aware of a few pacing issues that my enthusiasm for this series as a whole prevented me to see the first time around.
My first qualm is that the two parallel storylines develop at very different paces, and therefore made it hard for me to believe they were happening at the same time: while Arabella’s story dragged throughout the first 60% with minimal action or character development, Elizabeth got into all kinds of scrapes, met the entire supporting cast of characters, and her and Sherbourne’s relationship had progressed to the point of his being on the verge of a marriage proposal. I felt like I was being rudely pulled out of the narrative every time we switched from one cousin’s life to the other.

Secondly, I was bothered by the random change in pace in the last quarter: suddenly Julian becomes the sole protagonist of the story and we are treated to him and Arabella’s unwillingness to speak about their feelings for five whole chapters….meanwhile I just wanted to see Elizabeth and Ralph’s relationship blossoming after their engagement.
I feel cheated out of seeing the wedding night, although I suspect it would’ve been too steamy for SR’s standards so that’s why this pairing faded into the background. Still, their dynamic was the most complex BY FAR, and it deserved a proper conclusion.

And finally, Julian’s whole ‘enfant prodige’ spiel struck me as extremely annoying this time around: his being a genius was just a freeway pass to acting like a jerk most of the time and having everyone catering to his wishes. His bigger than life personality was a huge detriment to the development of his relationship with Arabella.
Did Julian truly value her as a person, or was he just grateful to have someone he’s attracted to looking after his estate and adopted children while he traipses around Europe pursuing his dream career? I hate how I’m genuinely unsure of the answer because the story never focused on Arabella’s own aspirations, but only on her devotion to Julian and how skilled of an housekeeper she was.
Truly hated how she was OK being relegated to the role of housewife in the middle of nowhere so that Julian could follow his dreams and being an absent husband/father. He gets everything and she gets to make all the sacrifices. Uh-uh, I didn’t like it at all.

All in all, this is still a great book. It just isn’t as perfect as I remembered, and there a few wasted opportunities in there that editing and a few additional chapters would’ve fixed.

September 2021 read: 5 STARS. I’m so happy the Rockliffe series, which by now has become my favorite HR series, ended on such a high note (pun not intended).

The dual storyline worked much better than in the previous book, mainly thanks to the close bond between the two protagonists and their plan to switch identities, which allowed their respective adventures to be woven seamlessly together.
It definitely helped that both romances were as different as they were equally engrossing, so I never felt disappointed when the narration shifted focus from one to the other. Julian is an incredible character and hero, and his and Arabella’s dynamic with the kids everything I hoped for.
I also applaud Stella Riley for ‘redeeming’ Ralph Sherbourne without taking away his toughness: we learn more about his backstory but he very much remains a grey character with a lot of soul searching still to do. I couldn’t get enough of him and Elizabeth, and especially the Hades and Persephone vibes I got off these two had me squealing a bit, I won’t lie. I definitely would have liked one more chapter tying up their storyline, but at the same time I can see theyOne of the reasons I’m so excited to start the Brandon spin-off is that these two will make appearances there.

[Julie]

This was a great note on which to end the Rockliffe series, one which has been a delightful discovery for me this year.

The prologue plunges directly into the world of music as Julian Langham concludes his first, triumphant professional concert, a career he’s worked diligently towards and which he desires above all else. Ms Riley brilliantly conveys the bleakness of spirit he suffers when, tricked to leave all this behind for an earldom he didn’t want, Julian finds himself trapped in a different life. And yet what traps him is his own inherent decency and goodness, as he gives a home to the three illegitimate children of the previous earl. Having done this, Julian can’t then abandon them to face homelessness and neglect again.

Into this world tumbles Arabella, pretending to be her cousin Elizabeth, and assuming the dual role of housekeeper and childcare. Lizzie, meanwhile, is to assume Arabella’s identity in Rockliffe’s household. What ensues is a terrible tangle which ultimately it’s up to Rockliffe to unravel.

There were many things to love about this book. Julian was one of them, a hero unlike any other. Sweet, shy, kind, honourable, socially awkward, and a musical genius, he was truly endearing. And Arabella was perfect for him. The time they had at Chalfont together, as a connection grew between them, and between Arabella and the children, was so strongly developed that when Arabella was forced to leave the heartbreak seemed very real.

And Rockliffe’s observation at that point? That he’d forgotten how exhausting young love could be, and that he must be getting old. One of the many times when this book, and Rock in particular, had me chuckling.

And what of Rockliffe? Yes, at times he seems overbearing. But hey, the man’s a Duke. If he’s the one who’s been duped, and who has to sort out all the myriad consequences, then he’s entitled to be annoyed and to let the girls know it. If he’s the one sponsoring Julian and inviting the Queen’s representative, amongst others, to a private concert held to launch Julian’s career then he’s entitled to insist that Julian uses the services of both his valet and his tailor. The one time I thought he overstepped the mark a little was when he interrupted a private moment between Julian and Arabella at their wedding. But in light of his extreme generosity towards his friends, I figure he can get away with this too.

What can I say? I adore Rockliffe.

The other relationship in this book is the one between Elizabeth and Lord Sherbourne. I agree with reviewers who were disappointed that their story seemed to just stop once they got engaged. After that, we see no more of them. It was disappointing, because they were an intriguing couple. And yet I think the author did exactly the right thing. Rafe was such an emotionally closed off, reserved man that to see anything more than a hint of what might lie in their future - loving Elizabeth, and perhaps even reconciling with Genevieve and Aristide - would have been unrealistic, and not possible within the confines of this book, what with Julian and Arabella taking centre stage. But Elizabeth and Rafe’s story would make a great stand-alone novella. At the very least, I hope Ms Riley revisits these characters somewhere in a later work.

The story might have seemed more balanced between the two couples if the ending hadn’t been quite so long, but I do understand why Ms Riley had to include two such important occasions. However, I think she took a risk at the very end, a little akin to Julian’s inclusion of the Royer in his concert programme, by using musical terms to describe the wedding night. Like the Royer, it won’t work for every reader and it didn’t really work for me. But a bit like Julian’s audience it doesn’t really make much difference to me what Ms Riley does, I know I’ll be back for more.

As proof, have already dived into the next series to see what the story of Arabella’s brother holds.

[Barb in Maryland]

Not a real review, but a smattering of impressions---
I feel I should give this 5 stars because the author made me love the harpsichord! However, that alone will not get me to bump up my rating.

A few thoughts:
Several of the reviews I read were not favorable to Arabella Brandon--Pfui!! I say. I loved her! And I totally disagree that her cousin Elizabeth Marsden (with whom she switched places) would have been 'better' for Julian.
The author gives us two (for the price of one!) romances-- to me it appeared that she gave more attention to Arabella/Julian than she did to Elizabeth/Ralph. I felt I needed many more pages with Lizzie and Ralph to really buy into their HEA. Instead we get a very long, soft ending emphasizing Belle and Julian's HEA. Bad pacing, IMO. The real reason for 4 (vs 5) stars.
Those quibbles aside, Riley showed her usual superb touch with children. All three of Julian's 'wards' were real children. No plot moppets here! I lost my heart to them all, as did Belle.
The supporting cast was excellent--from Belle's marvelous brother Max through the charming Caldercott sisters to the dark side of Ralph's story with the viper-ish Phillipa Sutherland.
And, as always, looming over all, The Duke of Rockcliffe.
I did like the way the author worked in the main characters of the earlier books--they were important to the story, rather than interruptions.
All in all, a worthy addition to the series.

[Lisazj1]

Oh how I loved this one! Even though I know I love Stella Riley's books, I wasn't expecting to love this one as much as I did. It started out very well but it developed so fantastically it comes very, very close to upsetting The Player as my favorite in the series and almost my favorite character in Rockliffe *except this will never happen*.

And, as always, Alex Wyndham and his sex-and-melted-chocolate voice is a pure pleasure to listen to, quite literally. *swoon*

[Jaci]

I have read and listened to every book in the Rockliffe Series, this is the sixth and sadly the last. This is another stunning work of art by Stella and brilliantly performed by Alex. Julian Langham is arguably the best hero in this series, with the exclusion of Rockliffe of course. A music genius and protege all Julian wants is to play the harpsichord and compose music. When he is not playing his music he is thinking about it and he appears to be absentminded and distracted. He forgets to eat and sleep. He wants nothing to do with anything outside his purpose for being alive. Then one day everything changes and his life will never be the same. He has inherited a title with an estate that is nearly bankrupt. He wants nothing to do with any of it but is tricked into returning to England by a lying lawyer and now he is stuck in a hell, not of his making and finds himself trapped and sees no way out. There are three orphaned children, bastards of the previous lord that are literally living on their own with no proper food, clothing or reliable shelter. Julian has no idea how to take care of children, he barely can take care of himself. He is determined to find a way to help the children without having to sacrifice what makes him sane and fulfilled, his music.

Arabella Brandon has just been jilted. Her fiancee of three years has just married someone else, which isn't that big of a tragedy except for the fact that she allowed him the ultimate liberty with her body, knowing that it didn't matter too much because they were going to get married. Now her family wants her to go to London for another Season to find a husband. She is adamantly opposed to the idea. It will be awful and embarrassing that her betrothed married someone else and she will be the object of malicious gossip which she wants to avoid at all costs. When she comes up with a wild idea that will save her from going to London and giving her best friend and cousin the season that her father refuses to give her. They will trade places, Arabella will be the governess that her cousin Lizzie applied for and was accepted and Lizzie will go to London and have her season. They both know that he won't be forever but Arabella needs to get away for a while and this is the perfect plan,
what could go wrong? The biggest obstacle to the whole plan is Rockcliffe himself, Arabella's distant cousin who will be presenting her to Society. Being who he is Rockcliffe is far too intelligent to fall for the charade for long.

When Arabella arrives at Lizzie's new post she meets the most beautiful man she has ever seen. The chemistry between them is instantaneous, which will cause all kinds of dilemmas for both of them.
With the addition of the three precious children, things start to get complicated.

I really don't like to spoil a book that I really enjoyed by giving away the whole story. A HAE is a certainty in Historical Romance and this story is no different. The difference in this book is the amazing talent of Stella's writing, this is an intelligent love story that is historically accurate in all aspects. I loved all the facets of Julian's idiosyncrasies that made him such a wonderful lovely man who anyone could imagine as the love of their life. Arabella is feisty, stubborn, intuitive with a generous spirit and the courage to protect what she considers hers. Stella has definitely hit this one out of the park. She has stepped over the line and surpassed all my expectations. This story has everything a beautiful love story needs, wonderful characters that will live on your memory. Add Ale x Wyndham's beautiful performance and this is an incredible swan song for The Rockliffe Series.

[Mela]

I adored the idea of these two romances. The characters were chosen wonderfully.

It was a bit difficult to see Kilburn from Hazard as the main (positive) hero here. But I got used to it with time.

Of course, thinking that this switch could have worked out without big consequences was stupid. They could have decided despite it, but thinking that Arabella could have gone later to London was too stupid. I also had difficulties with accepting that Julian ignored Arabella's lapses about her brothers (instead of sisters). There were a few more little "errors" I found rather hard to accept.

Nonetheless, I have enjoyed it quite a lot. I loved that there was another loving family: Brandon. And the fact that they were descendants of Gabriel and Venetica from Garland of Straw, moreover that one of the female descendants had a similar problem like Venetica - gave me additional pleasure. And of course the children - they splendidly made the story much much better. Then, Rockliffe and the bunch were in a correct dose, enough to enjoy it but not too much (as e.g. in "Hazard").

A few more scenes with children and more place for Ralph's transformation/opening-up - and it would have been even better. As it is - 4 stars as a whole. Additional star for Julian (how rare personality in such romances), Arabella-Max relation (a sister and a brother), children and the joy I have while listening (inspired by the novel) to Extract from Julian Langham's debut performance, and other splendid performance on harpsichord and harpe (just listen).

[Kim Rozzell]

A lush historical romance with vibrant characters and exquisite period details.

[Lu]

A hero so lovable it hurts!

A shy daydreamer with an amazing musical talent finds out that all his dreams will have to be postponed (perhaps forever) because he is responsible for a failing estate and three illegitimate orphans.
A daring girl (Arabella Brandon), hoping to avoid an unwanted season in London, changes place with her poorer cousin, and ends up accepting a post as a housekeeper/ governess.
Destiny mingled with determination and love are the main ingredients of this masterpiece by Mrs. Riley. Julian, the hero, is so lovable it hurts!
The children are so delightful, the friendships so real that you find yourself in a happy place throughout the book.
In addition to revisiting the indomitable Duke of Rockliffe (and all the other couples in the Rockliffe Series), there is also an extra romance between Elizabeth (Arabella's cousin) and The Earl of Sherbourne. Rafe is a wonderful hero in his own frosty way, and a villain redeemed to boot. Elizabeth is a vicar's daughter that decides to take her destiny in her own hands.
Although I'm not well versed in music, I loved all the musical references (the ones in the final scenes are gold), and I have managed to find beautiful renditions of the pieces mentioned on the internet and they are lovely. The artist that inspired Julian is called Jean Rondeau and he is so very talented.
For those who have already read Mrs. Riley's Garland of Straw, it's lovely to find out that Arabella is a great great granddaughter of Gabriel and Venetia.
As the audience did at the end of Julian's lovely performances, I can only clap my hands and shout "bravo", as I really enjoyed every minute of this book.

[Kate]

4.5 stars. 5 for the first 2/3 of the book, 4 for the last 1/3. But have to round up to a five because of the Duke of Rockliffe. If only we all had a friend like him. For the best review of this book and one that matches my thoughts almost exactly, please see OLT's review.

What I loved:
2 romances in one book
The Duke of Rockliffe and glimpses of characters from previous books in( the series.
The time spent at Julian's home.
The time spent in London before the "big reveal".
Julian and Arabella.
Julian and the children.
Arabella and the children.
Elizabeth and Ralph.

What I didn't like quite so much:
Julian in London (a bit too much emphasis on music for my tastes towards the end)
Short shifting Elizabeth and Ralph's romance.
Worry about how Julian and Belle and the children will navigate their changed lifestyle.
The thought that this is the final book in the series (hint to Stella Riley, what about a book about Max, Arabella's brother??)

Loved this whole series. I would suggest starting in the beginning so you can spend as much time as possible with the Duke of Rockliffe.

[Christa Schönmann Abbühl]

Riley is a writer who gives me exactly what I want. I enjoyed the whole series and hope to do a reread soon.
This gem delivers not just one, but two romances in one. I liked them both, even though one was a clear favorite - to everybody, I imagine.
Riley works inside very clear restrictions and I do not imagine that she will ever be very adventurous with her romances. But I like the values shining through.
The way she makes me react to her writing reminds me a lot of Patricia Veryan, and that is very high praise from me.
Like Veryan, she knows how to write children. Tom, Rob and Ellie are well defined characters from the beginning, and play an important role in the story.
The writing about the music was exceptionally well done.

[TinaNoir]

Oh man. This was on track to be a 5-star read right up until the end. I don't believe the author stuck the landing on this one.

Until then, it was a fantastic read.

Two cousins, one rich, Bella, and one the poor daughter of a vicar, Lizzie, are invited to be presented to the ton under the aegis of the Duke and Duchess of Rockliffe. Bella doesn't want to go because she has just been jilted by her fiance who ran off to war and married someone in America. Also there are other reasons she feel she can't have a season. Lizzie can't go because her father, the vicar feels such a thing is frivolous and would be ultimately not worthwhile. Her family is also cash strapped so Lizzie must find some genteel work. Both girls seem resigned until Bella, the more intrepid one, makes a suggestion. They will both travel toward London. Bella to go to the Rockliffes and Lizzie to go the house for which she has been offered a position as housekeeper. But on the way they will switch places. No one in either place knows what either one of them looks like. So in the end Bella goes on to become the housekeeper and Lizzie travels on to London.

The book follows both girls, equally at first, as they embark upon their adventures and road to romance.

Lizzie-as-Bella has it the hardest she has to pull the wool over Rockliffe's eyes and that isn't easy. Also gets herself in a little bit of a mess where her carriage is wrecked and she is forced to accept a ride from Ralph, Lord Sherbourne (Genevieve's frosty brother we first met in Hazard). Lord Sherbourne has a bit of a bad rep because of a duel he fought years ago. And now Lizzie may be compromised because she was seen in his company.

Bella-as-Lizzie has it a bit easier because she is off the beaten path on an run down estate where a new Earl, Julian Langham, has taken up the reins of his new title. He has inherited the crumbling estate, lots of debts and the three illegitimate children of his predecessor. Also he is surpremely unhappy because what Julian loves more than anything is music and more specifically he loves to play the harpsichord. He was on the cusp of becoming a world class virtuoso performer when he was forced to take on his new responsibilities.

I was a little wary about this because I hate deception as a basis of romantic conflict, but luckily the deception doesn't last too long. This is Rockliffe we are talking about here.

Both the story lines are very interesting in different ways. Bella and Julian is the sweetest and has the most heart. But ultimately I think the romance between Bella and Julian took a back seat to the love between Julian and his music.

I need to talk about the music for a bit because this is where I think the entire book soars and in the end I feel that this book is a love letter to music. Julian's music isn't just what he does it is who he is. And in almost every scene featuring Julian, we feel how much his music affects him and those around him. I adore the reactions that people have when he plays, from the three young children who really don't understand the technicalities but recognize brilliance when the hear it, to the villagers who gather outside when he is practicing just to hear him and when he eventually takes requests, to the ultimate triumph later in the book. There is a chapter late in the book where Julian gives a recital to a group of London society folk and that chapter is simply.... brilliant writing. I felt like I was in the audience and feeling the same things the people were feeling. I think I had chills just as if I were there. Also Julian was just a fantastic character whose presence kinda towered over everything even though he was shy and a little awkward (until he was playing then he became supremely confident and all alpha hot).

So yeah, honestly I think the romance between these two dulls a bit in comparison to the story of Julian and his music.

On the other hand the romance between Lizzie and Sherbourne is really interesting and charged with all sorts of landmines and angst. If felt more affecting and emotional than the one between Julian and Bella. I liked getting a better peek under the icy facade that is Sherbourne. I wanted more.

And this is where the book loses a star. Sherbourne and Lizzie get engaged at about 70% of the book. he'd been holding on to his feelings tightly because he's had to hold onto a big secret for years that affected almost everything about him. And while we the reader knows he feels more than he shows and he definitely feels for Lizzie. We don't get what I feel is a satisfying conclusion to their romance. Up until the point where these two get engaged the book had been pretty equal in how it treated both romances between both couples. But once Lizzie and Sherbourne get engaged the book pretty much ghosts them. And frankly I think it was a shit move because I don't think we even got and ILY between these two. I kept thinking, oh we'll get back to them and Ralph will tell Lizzie everything he feels.

But no, the rest of the book is dedicated solely to Julian and Bella. I can't get mad too much because this is the part where Julian's music really takes center stage. But we also got this long loving, cozy family embraced wedding and wedding night and beautiful ending to their romance, while Lizzie and Sherbourne's full HEA was, imo, still left in a sort of limbo in that room where he proposed. I felt ridiculously let down because Lizze and Ralph were, imo, the stronger and more interesting romance of the two.

[Ceki]

I had a tough time warming up to the characters. I found Julian a bit too submissive and shy for my taste. I loved the beginning but felt like something was missing, perhaps the fact that there were two romantic couples made me unable to connect to all four characters.

[Lupinus Texensis]

I want more this is cruel.

[Dharini]

The best in the series. Like most others, this story has two couples, but one outshines the other by quite a margin. The story is predictable enough, but every character is one you'll find yourself rooting for. The Duke of Rockliffe is a minor irritation, and it's a bit exhausting to keep track of the entire ensemble of characters, but points have been awarded for the absence of any major villains and silly side plots.
A solid 4 stars.

[Jill]

Another lovely, lovely story by this wonderful writer

At the risk of sounding a bit too ‘fan girl’, I believe that, in Cadenza, Ms Riley demonstrates once again the skills that make her, for me at least, the best writer of historical romantic fiction. Her mastery of setting, plot, dialogue and characterisation are again laid before us in a beautifully intricate composition rivalling any of those played or devised by Julian Langham, the hero of this story.

As with the previous five books in the Rockliffe series, it is a joy to slip into the Georgian world with its silks and taffeta, fans and snuffboxes and assemblies and balls. Ms Riley is as adept at depicting a run down manor house with all its problems as she is at bringing to life the more austere atmosphere of a ducal mansion. It is also a joy to meet again characters from these previous novels and delight in their ongoing marital happiness.

Like Hazard, the previous book in the series, Cadenza concerns two parallel love stories. I love the contrast between the two. Where one is warm, vital and passionately heartfelt (if not openly admitted), the other is measured and reserved with only brief glimpses at the passion held under strict control - until the denouement of course. Another reviewer mentioned the identity swap being a bit far fetched but this is a work of fiction and we are supposed to suspend our disbelief. I was more than happy to do so because it is the cause of the jeopardy in the story and enabled the author to show her plotting skills and allow the Duke of Rockliffe to pull all the strings with such finesse.

However, it is in the characterisation and dialogue where Ms Riley truly excels. I challenge anyone to read this story and not all in love with Julian Langham. He is gorgeous in every way. Arabella is a triumph too. If you have not read Ms Riley’s Roundhead and Cavalier novels, I would urge you to do so, especially Garland of Straw where Arabella’s great, great,great grandparents fell in love. Shades of Gabriel and Venetia are mingled to perfection in Arabella. As for the other couple, I love how the author has redeemed a character who in Hazard had come across as hugely unlikeable. By a masterful unveiling of his past and through the perceptive understanding of Elizabeth, the author shows how Ralph was more ‘sinned against’ than ‘sinning’ and how he might well be worthy of love. After all, we all love a tall, dark, handsome and intellectual hero - or is it just me?

Engaging dialogue helps bring these characters to life. Sometimes it is sparkling banter and at other times it is more considered and demonstrates their intelligence as they try to learn the attitudes and motivations of their prospective partners. I also love their internal monologues that let us understand them more deeply.

I should also mention the sundry other characters who contribute to such a rounded, enjoyable story. The three children are so real. I just want to hug them all, especially Tom.As for Max Brandon, doesn’t he deserve his own story? I would have loved to have him as my older brother. Even Mrs Phelps with her inedible cooking is portrayed with sensitivity as well as humour.

Ms Riley writes with such warmth, wit, perception and empathy that her characters leap off the pages and into our hearts. Cadenza is a truly satisfying and joyful read. Bravissima, Ms Riley.

[Jane]

Another brilliant story from Stella Riley and so well narrated by Alex Wyndham. Just looking forward to Max’ story now.

[SamuraiKitty]

I love Stella Riley. Her books are truly a joy to read - for me. In her last Georgian "Rockliffe Series" book, "Hazard", she introduced a character who was really an asshole. And treated his sister horridly, and I mean that. But the way he was written also gave me pause ... As a character, I wanted to know more about his back story - because as horrible as he was - he was also intriguing. So when "Cadenza" came on my radar I was thrilled - another "Rockliffe" book. And Kilborne/Sherbourne in it - to maybe redeem himself? (and I only wish he had had a better ending with his sister.) The plot is not new to anyone who reads romances. Two people trading places: Been there, done that, as a reader. But the true joy of this novel is in Riley's characters, and in her writing - to bring all the old players back and introduce new ones. To bring "Garland of Straw" into the mix, and to give Kilbourne/Sherbourne a story line to get a glimpse into his LIFE. And finally to give CLASSICAL music and its composers/musicians a place in the sun! I worked for years in "Silicon Valley" in the 1980's and early 1990's, and the composers/musicians of the 1700's are to me - like the software engineers of then - brains on another level - their partners/spouses calling to make sure they ate, went to the bathroom, picked up their children from day care and school - everything mapped out for them - because normal, everyday things are not where these men and women live -you have no idea - because their brains were not tuned like the rest of ours are. Julian and Arabella -Ralph and Elizabeth - GREAT characters, GREAT stories! Great series that I will re-read many times.

[Quenby]

Lovely story of two wacky cousins who trade places and fall in love. I particularly enjoyed the children. Julian is a marvel and Arabella is an excellent balance for him. My only wish was to hear more about Elizabeth and Ralph. The narration was superb as usual..

[Lisa Matheson]

Great read

Always want more from this authoress!
Each book is great!

I have read the whole series and look forward to reading her other works.

[Beth]

I loved this new book by a favourite author, Stella Riley. Stella is a master at character creation and development and combine that with a passion for research and you have amazing results. This book explores music as an art, a passion and an escape. Music is also a character in this novel and her understanding of its nature and ability to soothe, unite and exillerate are captured. For Julian, music is his language and emotional expression. As always, there is much subtle humour laced throughout this delightful story. The intertwining of the music in this particular novel is central to the characters of Bella, Julian and Rockliffe in particular.

I love the ending of this book as it is romantic, tender and fulfilling.

As always I listen to the audio version of the story and Alex Wyndham gives his mesmerizing and nuanced performance which only continues to evolve with each story. Alex is able to become the music of this book and inhabit the lives of each character connecting his listeners to Stella’s writing in wonderful ways. He knows these characters and you feel his passion for each individual, as all are integral parts of the story.

We follow the lives of two girls, Bella and Lizzie who switch places in their respective lives. Bella becomes a nanny/housekeeper in the home of a reluctant Earl, who is consumed by his musical talent on the harpsichord. Julian is a true eccentric, a type of character Stella writes exceptionally well, abstracted, passionate, socially awkward, honest to a fault, emotional and kind. She is mesmerized by his talent and attracted to his eccentricities. She is intelligent, lively and also honest at heart, even though in the midst of a deceptive scheme. Add in three illegitimate children and you have a delightful and often poignant mixture os charactersam . Bella is able to channel the creativity in the home, but also to provide the stability this ensemble needs. In turn, she is able to be useful and creative in common sense area and also to love and establish order, but to allow an exceptional amount of freedom for both Julian and the children. Since money is scarce she, who always had plenty learns to be resourceful with very little. There is strong chemistry from the beginning both between the characters and to the reader.


Lizzie , a vicars daughter of meager dowry, goes to the Rockliffe ducal household and here we are reacquainted with several recurring, especially the Duke who is a wonderful and beautifully written character. Lizzie is unhappy in her impersonation, adding to her naturally reticent persona. Before arriving in town, Lizzie’s carriage is damaged and she is forced to seek aid from an emotionally damaged and removed Earl. This causes an unusual intimacy and the two become more acquainted than would be usual in this society. Again, even in the midst of this deceit, Lizzie is basically an honest person , while the Earl is inscrutable and distant. At first Lizzie is the more captivated, but gradually the chemistry becomes more mutual.