Alpha male hero with a scandal hanging over his head, feisty heroine who redeems him. Don't do the math on their ages though, because she is really, really young.
Stephanie B. (boydbear) -
Helpful Score: 4
This book is a rewrite of Lisa Kleypas first book Only in Your Arms. She has updated and improved on the original story. In her words, "I had a great time rediscovering the story of Maximilien Ballerand and his stolen bride, Lysette. The promise of this handsome, though mysterious, man's love proves irresistible to her, but she doesn't know the secrets he hides."
Helpful Score: 1
Prior to this book I have only read one short story by Kleypas and enjoyed it. When I was thinking of starting this book I wasn't sure I wanted to read it, but it caught me right away.
I love Lysette: her strength and her struggles. The scenes her and Max were so playful and lighthearted. I loved the little bit of mystery and the family dynamics. I even found the politics of Lousiana interesting which shocked me. I had just finished a book with a very similar storyline but I still adored this one immensely. Nice side characters as well and would love to read more about them.
There was a bit of an age difference but I was under the impression that it was common at that time. Since Max was never too overbearing or condescending, I didn't mind.
Great read. Would definitely check out all her other books.
I love Lysette: her strength and her struggles. The scenes her and Max were so playful and lighthearted. I loved the little bit of mystery and the family dynamics. I even found the politics of Lousiana interesting which shocked me. I had just finished a book with a very similar storyline but I still adored this one immensely. Nice side characters as well and would love to read more about them.
There was a bit of an age difference but I was under the impression that it was common at that time. Since Max was never too overbearing or condescending, I didn't mind.
Great read. Would definitely check out all her other books.
Helpful Score: 1
I was so disenchanted with the first half of the book, that I almost put it down unfinished. However, the second half of the book improves. I could not overlook the age difference in the characters and found his attraction to her quite creepy.
This was first published as "Only in your arms"
It is obvious that this is an older book. It reads like something written in the 80's. I had read the original years ago, so I skimmed this version quite a bit.
Initially I was a bit put off by the age difference in the hero and heroine, almost wanting to put the book down. But after some thought, I realize most regency era romances (although this book takes place in New Orleans) have a hero in his 30's and a heroine in her early 20's. I think what is uncomfortable is that she is closer in age to his teenage sons than she is to him.
However, the story is sweet and although the start is a bit uncomfortable, they are a good couple and as with all Kleypas books, the dialogue is smart and the romance believable. The story had charm because the couple is married for most of the book and it is more about two people learning to be married and fall in love. Plenty of sensuality although not as hot at more recent Kleypas fare.
Not the best Kleypas book but knowing it was her first, you can see what amazing talent she had right from the start. If you're a Kleypas fan, it should be on your reading list.
3 stars
However, the story is sweet and although the start is a bit uncomfortable, they are a good couple and as with all Kleypas books, the dialogue is smart and the romance believable. The story had charm because the couple is married for most of the book and it is more about two people learning to be married and fall in love. Plenty of sensuality although not as hot at more recent Kleypas fare.
Not the best Kleypas book but knowing it was her first, you can see what amazing talent she had right from the start. If you're a Kleypas fan, it should be on your reading list.
3 stars
great book. when i find a lisa kleypas i go right home and read all night. this was a great book.
Excellent story set in 1800's New Orleans. It has some history background which makes it more interesting. The hero is twice the heroine's age which might turned some people off (especially since the heroine is no much older than the hero's sons) but I think they are very well matched.
This book moves well and has a great story line. I liked that the secondary characters were involved without taking over and that while he has a dark brooding side to him max is a kind man and a loving father underneath it all. he is intelligent and doesnt rush around getting angry and acting out of rage all the time like some heros in romance novels. he is hard but he can not be cruel.
A stolen bride and the promise of a handsome, mysterious man's love. Very hot.
loved it
This is a very good story with strong characters and a good plot line. This is the first book I have read by this author but it won't be the last.
Rewrite of Only in Your Arms.
I didn't like this book. I usually expect so much more out of Lisa!
Quick to read, but I didn't really feel involved with the characters.
loved this book! first I've read by this author-well written and very sexy:)
E.D. C. (Farscapegirl) -
I absolutely love Kleypas, this is one of her older books, (originally published under title: ONLY IN YOUR ARMS) that has been edited and touched up with added scenes. It is the story of Maximilien Vallerand & Lysette...very memorable!
Love Lisa Kleypas. This wasn't my favorite one by a longshot but she's still so good.
Story of Maximilien Vallerand and his stolen bride, Lysette.
I liked it. I've read Lisa's books before. I think Max's sons should have a story of their own. Have they yet? When Strangers Marry is a rewrite. It's possable.
fun read, nice love story!
Early and so a little rough but very engaging and gives excitement other than just romance/relationship oriented. :)
