Happily Ever After Cafe discussion
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The Lass Wore Black
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The Lass Wore Black Buddy Read/Giveaway - 3/11/13
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I'm happy to see you're both curious about the person she was/is on the inside. Have you ever wondered what might happen if you're appearance is drastically changed? How do you think your family would feel? How would YOU feel?
Yes! Susan, I think you hit the nail on the head with your comment: I feel that Catriona's family, friends and suitors see her beauty and charm as her only qualities. She is described as selfish, willfull, beautiful and charming. No one says anything positive about her.
And Catriona makes a very telling statement when Mark picks up her mirror and questions her about what she sees when she looks into it. (near the end of Ch 7)
MARK:
"Is that what the mirror tells you? That you're a monstrosity?"
Catriona's eventually replies,
"You cannot see a person's character, or view a soul. All we have is a person's appearance by which to judge him."
So yes, she is coming across as someone that is so steeped in her vanity and her looks as her only asset.
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UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish, Naughty Co-Mod
(last edited Mar 12, 2013 05:20PM)
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rated it 4 stars
Toni wrote: "(2) In addtion to being a scarred heroine, she certainly seems to be the antithesis of the traditional, historical romance heroine - virgin, unsure about men, etc. As a matter of fact, Catriona not only admits to having had more than one lover (*gasp*), she admits to actually LIKING SEX!!! (**double gasp**). "That's another thing I enjoyed about the story. It's as if the roles are entirely reversed! It makes it sooo interesting!
I wonder what would happen if my appearance was changed...interesting question. I am sure people would react differently to me as they did with Catriona. Would people see beyond the scars? I am not so certain.
Our society is focused on looks. But if you are beautiful on the outside..does that mean you are beautiful inside, too?
I am enjoying this book very much. I am liking Catriona for her honesty--she enjoys sex AND has had more than one lover--and she's trying to sort out what comes next.
The comparisons with the family in Old Town and the wealthy society members and Christel's beauty and Catriona former beauty are nicely done.
What chapters are you in?
Susan wrote: "Chapter 24"Oh, you're flying through it! Glad you're enjoying it!
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UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish, Naughty Co-Mod
(last edited Mar 14, 2013 10:45AM)
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rated it 4 stars
We've talked about the role reversals in terms of the Catriona, so let's talk about Mark.How do you feel him? In most historical romance novels, the hero is, in some ways, alpha. They're demanding, compelling, and more often than not, the heroine has to bow to their wishes.
How is Mark different, and do you see this as a strength or a weakness?
I'd describe Mark Thorburn as a determined hero, one with alot of strength. He studied medicine against his domineering father's wishes. He pursued his studies and career with the support of his grandparents. Mark wants to make a contribution to society unlike his father and brothers.Mark mentions that he listens to people; his patients, friends and family.
He listens and then makes decsions-this is different than many male alphas who react to situations.
I see these characteristics as positives, not negatives.
I agree, Susan!So far, what do you like most and least about the story?
I enjoyed how Mark tried to uncover what exactly happenned during the carriage accident. The accident, Catriona's care after the accident and Catriona's recovery puzzeled him. Mark was determined to figure out both what caused the accident and the 'real" Catriona. I liked the fact that Mark travelled to see Catriona's sister to learn more about her.
I would like to have seen a bit more of Catriona's realationship with Andrew---to see why he hated her so.
I was reading the book last weekend while watching a friends infant puppies and she said..Aren't those all the same? I smiled and said that this book was different!
Definitely different, which can be a good thing!There's another book coming soon. I'm not sure how it works into this story, but apparently it's before the accident and we learn more about Catriona. Not sue if the publisher will be providing opines of those, though.
I really enjoyed the stereotypical role reversal in this book.
Keep me in the loop about the next story. I am planning to read Morgan and Jean's story next. :)
Awesome! I'm glad you enjoyed it and I will keep you posted!
I feel that Catriona's family, friends and suitors see her beauty and charm as her only qualities. She is described as selfish, willfull, beautiful and charming. No one says anything positive about her.
This was the hooked me. Isn't she more than just a pretty face?
In the beginning of the novel, Catriona believes her beauty is her only feature as well as she hides in her room refusing to eat or see anyone. The carriage accident has truely changed her. Her self confidence is diminshed until she meets Mark, the "footman".