Question A

[Monica]

This book seemed to rely less on chance rescues, and we see more vulnerability in our hero (the mob he gets swept away in and the men waiting at the end of an alley). Did you appreciate this change?

[Lauren]

One of the aspects of this series that I enjoy them most is Harris's detailed historical research and insight into the setting.

She manages to capture the pervading atmosphere of social discontent, anger and violence of the Regency period exceedingly well, and this adds an extra layer of tension to the story.

[Monica]

I agree.

What I like about this series, from what we've seen in the first two books, is that Harris depicts the grimier, grittier side of Regency England. I'm used to ballrooms and grand gardens, so I love this look at the other side of England. It makes the story come more alive to me.

[Veronica]

I agree, Monica. It's a different approach compared to the usual glittery, genteel, and elegant depictions of regency London that are more typical.

[Charlene]

Yes to above comments. It has made me wonder how the Regency fellows could cross borders back and forth, in public and in private.

[Jonetta]

In the first book, Sebastian seemed almost superhero in abilities and that just wasn't the case in this story. He's got skills but he's also beatable. It made it much more believable, yes, but more importantly, it also ratcheted up the tension. I didn't always think he'd escape unscathed.

I agree with Lauren's assessment about setting. This is unlike many of the historicals I'm used to reading, Maiden Lane excepted.

[Lauren]

Jonetta wrote: "This is unlike many of the historicals I'm used to reading, Maiden Lane excepted. ."

Yes, Maiden Lane is one of the few historical romances that actually shows the seedier and grittier side of the regency period. Its not all balls and picnics in the meadows.

[Jonetta]

And, Lauren, it's a much needed change of pace. Maiden Lane is very much romance centric so it represents the notion that it can be done realistically and still be romantic.

[Mary Beth]

I love the Regency time period also and Stephanie I was going to answer this question with the chase in the sewers also. It was diagusting. I thought he was going (view spoiler)[get shot and loved it when Portland aimed his gun and puled the trigger and said You lose my friend. Then Sebastian said gunfire doesnt like to get wet. (hide spoiler)]

[Veronica]

The regency era is one of my favorite time periods too.

[Sharon]

I agree with all of the comments. The tension is stronger with Sebastian turning up in dangerous situations. Like Jonetta I wasn't sure if he was going to get seriously hurt.

Coming to the series late, I did know he would survive, but that knowledge didn't make me worry less.