In Lisa Valdez's debut book 'Passion' from the 'Passion Quartet' series, readers are taken on a journey of intense romance and scandal set in the 19th century. The story revolves around the characters of Passion Elizabeth Dare, a young widow seeking freedom and love after a loveless marriage, and Mark Randolph Hawkmore, an Earl caught in a web of blackmail and family secrets. Their chance encounter at London's Crystal Palace leads to a passionate affair, amidst a backdrop of betrayal, lust, and emotional turmoil. The plot unfolds with a mix of explicit sexual encounters and intricate character development, showcasing the raw and honest portrayal of emotions when love and desire collide in unexpected ways.

Valdez's writing style in 'Passion' is described as highly erotic, emotionally engaging, and intense. The novel delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption, as the characters navigate through societal expectations, blackmail scandals, and forbidden desires. The narrative weaves together a tale of passion, romance, and tragedy, culminating in a roller coaster of emotions that keeps readers hooked till the very end.

Characters:

The main characters are well-developed and relatable, yet flawed, with the heroine's insecurities and the hero's troubles creating depth, though supporting characters may feel one-dimensional.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is explicit and raw, featuring crude language while effectively conveying the emotional depth of the characters, although at times it can feel anachronistic.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around an explosive initial meeting that leads to a complicated relationship filled with forbidden love and blackmail, focusing on the characters' emotional journeys.

Setting:

Set in Victorian London, particularly in the Crystal Palace, the historical backdrop influences the characters and adds tension to the narrative.

Pacing:

The pacing begins strong but becomes unbalanced, slowing significantly in the latter half which can detract from the overall flow and intensity of the story.

Passion Elizabeth Dare looked down at the large, gray-gloved hand cupped over the lavender silk of her bodice. It rose and fell with her rapid breath. A black-clad arm curved around her waist, holding...

Notes:

The book opens with a steamy encounter at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London.

Passion Elizabeth Dare, the heroine, is a widow exploring her newfound freedom.

Mark Hawkmore, the hero, is an architect being blackmailed into marriage.

The novel features highly explicit sex scenes that are integral to the plot.

The characters are well-developed, with their emotional connection deepening through their encounters.

The book presents a contrast between explicit sex and romantic sentiments.

The dialogue has been criticized for being anachronistic and overly vulgar for the Victorian era.

Some readers found the portrayal of the characters and their situations to be exaggerated or melodramatic.

Despite its flaws, many readers found the story engaging and emotionally impactful.

The book is noted for its unconventional approach to the romance genre, beginning with physical intimacy rather than emotional connection.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes high content warnings for explicit sexual content, themes of blackmail, emotional manipulation, and potentially triggering scenes related to consent.

Has Romance?

Yes, romance plays a central role throughout the story, with a high level of romantic tension and emotional connection developed between the main characters.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Young widow Passion Dare thought she'd never love again. But a handsome earl has been pursuing her-and after a lifetime of propriety, Passion ponders throwing caution to the wind. After several heady encounters, the pair must face blackmail, learn a shocking truth-and choose between duty and desire.

Reader Stats (6):

Want To Read (4)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (1)

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Passion?

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About the Author:

Lisa Valdez was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and grew up in Los Angeles, California. She received her bachelor's degree in English literature from the University of California, Los Angeles. She is the author of Passion and Patience. She resides in Los Angeles with her…

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Passion

Lisa Valdez

Book 1 in the series:Passion Quartet