Helpful Score: 9
So I finally read Julia Quinn's new book ... and I am happy to say that I think she's headed back in the right direction (though hasn't arrived at the destination yet). I *loved* almost all of her Bridgerton books and the books she has written since then have not even begun to compare in caliber - The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever got off to a great start and then PLUNGED downhill. I didn't read either of the Dukes of Wyndham books, mostly because the reviews were so horrible, but it actually wasn't for lack of trying: I started Mr. Cavendish, I Presume (the second one) and just couldn't even bother to finish it, so I of course left The Lost Duke of Wyndham (the first book) alone.
With her new book, What Happens in London, I was happy to see Quinn return to her snappy dialogue and funny, light characters. I was reminded of why I have (usually) so admired her books: Harry and Olivia are very enjoyable and their exchanges are highly entertaining - and cause you to laugh out loud at times - and it's so refreshing to have a hero and heroine who don't just lust after each other, but whom you feel actually have an emotional and intellectual connection, and have really gotten to know each other by the end of the book.
Why the 3.5 stars then? ... It's actually hard to say. I was measuring it against recent books I've read that I've really loved and have given 4 or 5 stars, and I realized that WHAT HAPPENS IN LONDON, while completely enjoyable, was nothing groundbreaking and the whole thing felt a little brief once I'd finished. Everything kind of happened so quickly and although I did feel that Harry and Olivia got to know one another and didn't have the dreaded/hated lust-at-first-sight experience, it was all kind of fluffy and not fully satisfying - like a really tasty appetizer, but when I was expecting steak, delicious mashed potatoes, and a scrumptious desert instead. Make sense?
*** SPOILER STARTS ***
The random kidnapping about 2 pages before the end was completely unnecessary. It seemed to be thrown in last minute for good measure, as if to make sure there was enough action - which has never really a big component (or one at all) in Quinn's novels, but that hasn't seemed to bother us in the past, so why try to fix something that's not broken? I suppose there is a mystery subplot throughout the book, since that is what prompts Harry to watch the prince and Olivia, but it is so minimal one almost forgets that that is the catalyst of everything. Then, Harry and Olivia are at the Ambassador's party, they sneak off, declare their love for each other, confirm they're going to get married, have sex - and wham! Olivia is abducted. ... Uh, what? I also disliked the proposal scene at the end, it was weird and corny and just ... odd.
*** SPOILER ENDS ***
NOTE (connection to other Quinn books)
What Happens in London is not part of a series, but it is connected to Quinn's The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever, whose hero is this book's heroine's brother. At the end of this book we're given a teaser and told that Mr. Sebastian Grey, possible heir to an Earldom and Harry's cousin (and a great character), will be the hero of Quinn's next book, due out summer 2010.
P.S. What is up with these video trailers for books? Does anyone else find them ridiculous?!
(http://historical-romance-heaven.blogspot.com/)
With her new book, What Happens in London, I was happy to see Quinn return to her snappy dialogue and funny, light characters. I was reminded of why I have (usually) so admired her books: Harry and Olivia are very enjoyable and their exchanges are highly entertaining - and cause you to laugh out loud at times - and it's so refreshing to have a hero and heroine who don't just lust after each other, but whom you feel actually have an emotional and intellectual connection, and have really gotten to know each other by the end of the book.
Why the 3.5 stars then? ... It's actually hard to say. I was measuring it against recent books I've read that I've really loved and have given 4 or 5 stars, and I realized that WHAT HAPPENS IN LONDON, while completely enjoyable, was nothing groundbreaking and the whole thing felt a little brief once I'd finished. Everything kind of happened so quickly and although I did feel that Harry and Olivia got to know one another and didn't have the dreaded/hated lust-at-first-sight experience, it was all kind of fluffy and not fully satisfying - like a really tasty appetizer, but when I was expecting steak, delicious mashed potatoes, and a scrumptious desert instead. Make sense?
*** SPOILER STARTS ***
The random kidnapping about 2 pages before the end was completely unnecessary. It seemed to be thrown in last minute for good measure, as if to make sure there was enough action - which has never really a big component (or one at all) in Quinn's novels, but that hasn't seemed to bother us in the past, so why try to fix something that's not broken? I suppose there is a mystery subplot throughout the book, since that is what prompts Harry to watch the prince and Olivia, but it is so minimal one almost forgets that that is the catalyst of everything. Then, Harry and Olivia are at the Ambassador's party, they sneak off, declare their love for each other, confirm they're going to get married, have sex - and wham! Olivia is abducted. ... Uh, what? I also disliked the proposal scene at the end, it was weird and corny and just ... odd.
*** SPOILER ENDS ***
NOTE (connection to other Quinn books)
What Happens in London is not part of a series, but it is connected to Quinn's The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever, whose hero is this book's heroine's brother. At the end of this book we're given a teaser and told that Mr. Sebastian Grey, possible heir to an Earldom and Harry's cousin (and a great character), will be the hero of Quinn's next book, due out summer 2010.
P.S. What is up with these video trailers for books? Does anyone else find them ridiculous?!
(http://historical-romance-heaven.blogspot.com/)
Helpful Score: 7
This was a really sweet romance without the extreme ups and downs in feeling that Olivia's friend, Miranda went through (The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever). At first the hero and heroine don't really like each other, Harry is annoyed at her spying and she's annoyed at being caught, but they soon realize that they get alone pretty well and a friendship develops. When the they realize they love each other, it's very romantic and happy rather than a tortured thing (and I didn't feel sickened by the sweetness so for me the process felt just right). I quite enjoyed that both accepted it, and Harry in particular was very straightforward in thought and in deed once he'd made that decision.
Overall: A book with a great beta hero, excellent dialogue, some laugh out loud moments, and sweet romance. A keeper. It picked my spirits up after a bad day.
Overall: A book with a great beta hero, excellent dialogue, some laugh out loud moments, and sweet romance. A keeper. It picked my spirits up after a bad day.
Helpful Score: 5
Fun dialog with typical JQ humor [and the 'window' conversations were a hoot until the overkill at the end], but this one did not grab me and say 'keeper' as did many of her previous novels. More of an "ok, that was cute" rather than a "must read it again." Still, it's JQ, so better than most in the genre.
I enjoyed this book. It was a light and quick read. Perfect to take if you are travelling. It was enjoyable, amusing and funny. I am glad to see Julia Quinn is getting back on track. I think it has been said before but her last few books haven't been up to what long term fans have come to expect. I am looking forward to Sebastian's story and hope that it will be up to Quinn's earlier books.
Helpful Score: 5
I'm pretty picky about the historical romances I read. They have to be well written, and they'd better get me hooked within the first few pages or I'm out. This one certainly did that. It was totally enjoyable from the very beginning -- humorous, smart and entertaining -- and I finished it within a couple of days. I can always count on Julia Quinn for a great read. Highly recommend if you're in to historical romance.
Michelle D. (Michelle74) reviewed What Happens in London (Bevelstoke, Bk 2) on + 153 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
England 1821 or so?? Light read - especially compared to her last two, but good nontheless. I believe it is meant as a companion to The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Chever, but the hero / heroine don't actually make an appearance. Olivia (Miranda's best friend, and now sister-in-law) is heroine who falls for the Baronet next door (Harry Valentine).
As usual, Quinn's unique humor is found throughout and makes the book even more enjoyable. Definately a recommended read.
As usual, Quinn's unique humor is found throughout and makes the book even more enjoyable. Definately a recommended read.
Vandana D. (romabellaroma) reviewed What Happens in London (Bevelstoke, Bk 2) on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Julia Quinn is one of my must buy authors. I like her sense of humor, and her books are well written and make me laugh. This book was good and I enjoyed it, although I think the first lost duke book is still my favorite. Nice read, gentle romance.
Helpful Score: 3
This book is the sequal to the Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever and as such I was a little leary about it, especially after the double series that included The Lost Duke of Whyndham and Mr. Cavendish I presume. But no worries, this books is very classic Juilia Quinn. There is a true connection between the hero and heroine with a good plot, fantastic characters, and some humor thrown in to spice it up. This book is definitely worth the time to read it.
Helpful Score: 2
What Happens in London is classic JQ. It's funny and entertaining and is reminiscent of her earlier novels. It is light years better than The Lost Duke of Wyndam.
Helpful Score: 2
This is my first Julia Quinn and I loved it. I found myself laughing out loud many times. The story was very sweet. I could not put it down.
Christina (mschris1161) -
Helpful Score: 2
Kudos once again to Julia Quinn. She never disappoints. I could not put this one down. The banter between Sir Harry and Lady Olivia, who at first disliked each other, was very enjoyable and highly entertaining. So many laugh out loud scenes. It was nice to have a hero and heroine who don't just lust after each other, but whom you can see are truly well-suited intellectually and personality wise. I also loved how JQ showed that Harry would fit right in with Olivia's family and was on the road to a similarly strong relationship with his brother Edward.
Helpful Score: 1
I have never been a fan of Regency Romances but this book is over the top cute. I was intrigued by the back cover info and got it; I hadn't even realized what it was. I not only loved it and read it almost without stopping but I ordered more from Julia Quinn. The characters were likable and real, situations not too over the top and it was very literate (a real sticking point with me! So many books of any genre aren't!). Well worth your time.
Helpful Score: 1
A good fast read for summer. It's light heart-ed and fun but not very heavy on the plot. A good romance if you enjoy a period story.
Helpful Score: 1
Julia Quinn has a way of writing delightfully fun and humorous stories that ride the line of silly without (usually) tipping over. This one stands as the perfect example.
Olivia Bevelstoke and Sir Harry Valentine's relationship is an absolute joy to watch develop. Both characters share the ability to see the absurd in everyday situations and laugh at their own participation in them. Their first conversation from the windows of their respective homes while reading and discussing a torrid romance novel had me laughing out loud. Unfortunately just when I thought this would be the perfect, sweet romance where the couple are left to grow and develop a normal relationship, Quinn succumbs to the fatal urge of incorporating a very cliche and WAY overused plot devise to add suspense. That plus the absurdly ridiculous, completely unrealistic sex scene kept "What Happens.." from a much higher star.
Olivia Bevelstoke and Sir Harry Valentine's relationship is an absolute joy to watch develop. Both characters share the ability to see the absurd in everyday situations and laugh at their own participation in them. Their first conversation from the windows of their respective homes while reading and discussing a torrid romance novel had me laughing out loud. Unfortunately just when I thought this would be the perfect, sweet romance where the couple are left to grow and develop a normal relationship, Quinn succumbs to the fatal urge of incorporating a very cliche and WAY overused plot devise to add suspense. That plus the absurdly ridiculous, completely unrealistic sex scene kept "What Happens.." from a much higher star.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book and thoroughly enjoyed every mintue reading it. Sir Harry was one of the most likable heroes I've come across and Olivia was also a fun character. I was laughing out loud during the scene where Sebastion was reading outloud in the drawing room and the scenes between Olivia and Harry were just sweet. I'm thoroughly looking forward to seeing more of Sebastion in 10 Things and hoping that we will see more of Edward as well.
Angela H. (brideofspoon) reviewed What Happens in London (Bevelstoke, Bk 2) on + 23 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of my favorite Julia Quinn novels. It's funny and sweet. It's not common to find a romance hero who is NOT a rake, so Sir Harry was a pleasant surprise to me. Just an all around nice guy, but not sickeningly so. I agree with other reviewers that the kidnapping bit seemed a bit contrived, but the rest of the book was so lovely that I didn't even care. I highly recommend this book.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was so much fun! It was very well written, refreshing, and was the first book to make me laugh out loud in months!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is quite funny; I found myself laughing out loud several times. A cute, fun, pleasurable read.
Helpful Score: 1
Ms.Quinn does a superb job w/ her dialogue--it's a real treat! I would have enjoyed more descriptions, however, when it came to the setting and the clothing of that era. This being an historical romance, I expected to be given more of the flavor of the time, place, etc. And, if a few spots, she's not careful with her words that are more appropriate to the present day. That said, it is an enjoyable romance--but it could have taken place at any time.
Shelley C. (sdgirl) -
loved the characters in this book ... olivia interested me though in the first bevelstoke series book. loved that harry is a different type of hero. as always julia quinn made me laugh at times.
Fun read with romance, intrigue and British personalities!
Monica G. (champsmom) -
Great love story between Harry and Olivia~! Quinn never disappoints~!
Excellent read. This book started me on reading all of Julia Quinn's books.
Great book - a fun easy read that's very engaging. Gotta love Julia Quinn's sparkling heroine!
Very funny! I am looking forward to reading the next in this series.
I thought this was a great read! I have not read this author's work before and will definately look for more by her!
The funniest romance I've read all year. Loved it; a must read!
Julia returns to the world that she created with the Bridgerton family. While none of them appear in this book, some of the same places and tertiary characters do appear. It's like visiting a place that you vacationed before and seeing how the place is holding up. I enjoyed my read.
This book is wonderful! I was smiling through practically the whole thing. The banter between the characters (not only the hero and heroine) is delightful. A Keeper!
I don't know what it was (timing or whatever), but this book is delightfully, laugh-out-loud funny to me. Very light read and very fun.
love the light hearted humor sprinkled through out the book. Julia Quinn at her best.
Janet L. (proudgrandma) reviewed What Happens in London (Bevelstoke, Bk 2) on + 285 more book reviews
WHAT HAPPENS IN LONDON
When Olivia Bevelstoke is told that her new neighbor may have killed his fiancee, she doesn't believe it for a second, but, still, how can she help spying on him, just to be sure? So she stakes out a spot near her bedroom window, cleverly concealed by curtains, watches, and waits...and discovers a most intriguing man, who is definitely up to something.
Sir Harry Valentine works for the boring branch of the War Office, translating documents vital to national security. He's not a spy,but he's had all the training, and when gorgeous blonde begins to watch him from her window, he is instantly suspicious. But just when he decides that she's nothing more than an annoyingly nosy debutante, he discovers that she might be engaged to a foreign prince, who might be plotting against England. And when Harry is roped into spying on Olivia, he discovers that he might be falling for her himself....
When Olivia Bevelstoke is told that her new neighbor may have killed his fiancee, she doesn't believe it for a second, but, still, how can she help spying on him, just to be sure? So she stakes out a spot near her bedroom window, cleverly concealed by curtains, watches, and waits...and discovers a most intriguing man, who is definitely up to something.
Sir Harry Valentine works for the boring branch of the War Office, translating documents vital to national security. He's not a spy,but he's had all the training, and when gorgeous blonde begins to watch him from her window, he is instantly suspicious. But just when he decides that she's nothing more than an annoyingly nosy debutante, he discovers that she might be engaged to a foreign prince, who might be plotting against England. And when Harry is roped into spying on Olivia, he discovers that he might be falling for her himself....
