Splendid
by Julia Quinn

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Book Summary Information

• ISBN13: 9780380780747
• Condition: New
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Book Reviews of Splendid

Book Review: Not quite spendid enough
Summary: 3 Stars

Alexander, the hero, was typically handsome, rich, sexy, and had no interest in marriage. He is the Duke of Ashbourne and is extremely sought after as a marriage candidate. Alex differed from the usual romance hero in that he tolerated some fairly immature antics from the heroine. Although he strenuously objects each time she is involved in one of her dangerous capers, he somehow sees past them. His reluctant acceptance of Emma's outlandish adventures appears more as a mature adult dealing with a rebellious child than two adults in love.

The heroine, Emma, was kind and beautiful as you would expect and a little atypical in that she was American and as inferred previously - very mischievous. She is a rich heiress and has been very involved in her father's shipping empire in America before her trip to England with her aunt, uncle, and two cousins. Emma doesn't want to marry although that is the hope of all her family. While she longs to run her father's business some day, he has informed her that it will never be possible for a woman to head such a large company and continue profitably. He doesn't think poorly of a woman's abilities - he just accepts that most men during this time period will not conduct business with a woman. So, it is with some reluctance that she begins her first season in London. She barely can tolerate all of the societal dictates she encounters in London and lives for the possible adventure (actually misadventures). Emma is presented as a fun loving young woman but her mischievousness made her seem immature and she had more than one TSTL (to stupid to live) moment.

It is during one of these misadventures that Alex and Emma first meet. She has sneaked out of her aunt's home, secretly dressed as a maid and running an errand when she first meets Alex. He is fascinated with this commoner and follows her home - a home that he and many other members of the ton have been invited to that evening for Emma's coming out ball. Alex, being the proper romance hero, detests balls and never attends them. However, his curiosity causes him to accept the invitation and he arrives that evening fully prepared to search out the intriguing maid. The fun begins when he discovers that Emma is not a maid at all and confronts her. The chemistry between the two is strong and Alex is rather bold and improper towards her. The book then mostly follows the romance between Alex and Emma. There are many moments to savor as we see these two develop their relationship. There are a few sensual scenes and they rate about a 3.5 to a 4.0 out of 5.0 (see More About Me for rating guidelines).

I will certainly read more Quinn books. I have read many very positive reviews of her books. However, I was disappointed overall with Splendid. What I believe is most indicative of this book's appeal is the fact that I finished reading it only a few days ago and have a difficult time remembering what happened. If I really enjoy a book, I certainly don't forget it - no matter how many books I read. Since my memory of Splendid didn't last much longer than the next day, I consider it as average and only slightly entertaining. It did provide some fun moments but was not a book that I eagerly picked up to resume reading.

Summary of Splendid

Based on the phenomenal growth of Quinn?s popularity, and her four-week stint on the New York Times bestseller list with Romancing Mr Bridgerton, it?s the perfect time to revisit Ms Quinn?s ?splendid? storytelling.

American heiress Emma Dunster has always been fun-loving and independent with no wish to settle into marriage. She plans to enjoy her Season in London in more unconventional ways than husband-hunting. But this time Emma?s high-jinks lead her into dangerous temptation...

Alexander Ridgely, the Duke of Ashbourne, is a notorious rake who carefully avoids the risk of love...until he plants one reckless kiss on the sensuous lips of this high-spirited innocent...and condemns himself to delicious torment. Little does he know that his passion has touched the very soul of the lovely enchantress...and committed them both to a lifetime of splendid ecstasy.

Literature & Fiction Books

• Subjects > Literature & Fiction
• Romance > Contemporary
• Historical
• Regency