Then Came You by Lisa Kleypas is a historical romance novel set in the Regency era, focusing on the tumultuous relationship between Lily Lawson, a wild and reckless woman ostracized by society, and Alex, Earl of Raiford. Lily intervenes to prevent her younger sister's loveless marriage to Alex, who is still mourning the loss of his previous fiancée. As Lily and Alex clash and navigate their complicated feelings, secrets and past traumas come to light, leading to a transformation in both characters. The story is filled with drama, scandal, and romance, showcasing the struggles of love and trust in a society where reputations are paramount.

Characters:

The characters are multifaceted, with Lily displaying fierce independence and Alex evolving from a stern figure to a loving partner.

Writing/Prose:

The prose combines humor, emotional resonance, and engaging dialogue, which helps to develop both character dynamics and historical context.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows Lily's determined efforts to intervene in her sister's engagement while grappling with her troubled past, ultimately leading to passionate interactions with Alex Raiford.

Setting:

The setting is evocative of Regency-era England, providing a backdrop that enhances the narrative's conflicts and societal pressures.

Pacing:

The pacing of the novel is energetic, moving briskly through various conflicts and resolutions, maintaining reader interest throughout.

The yacht was anchored in the middle of the Thames, the guests assembled in honor of King George. So far the party had been dull but dignified, everyone dutifully complimenting His Majesty’s magnifice...

Notes:

Then Came You is one of Lisa Kleypas's earlier works, written in the 1990s.

The story features a strong and independent heroine, Lily, who defies societal norms.

Lily's sister, Penny, is set to marry a man named Alex, but Lily disrupts this engagement.

Alex is initially grieving for his late fiancée, which complicates his feelings for Lily.

Lily has a daughter named Nicole, who is kidnapped, driving much of her actions in the story.

The book plays on themes of love, sacrifice, and secrecy.

The dynamic between Lily and Alex is described as a classic enemies-to-lovers trope.

There are elements of humor amidst the tension in their arguments.

The book is noted for its intense emotional rollercoaster and dramatic plot twists.

Derek Craven, a key supporting character, will later have his own story in the sequel, Dreaming of You.

The novel explores the theme of societal expectations and personal freedom.

Critics have pointed out the use of dubious consent in some romantic scenes, reflecting 90s attitudes.

The narrative includes humorous moments alongside serious themes such as kidnapping and blackmail.

There are mixed reviews on how well the historical context and character behaviors were handled.

The story deals with themes of redemption and healing through love.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains themes of child kidnapping, blackmail, and dubious consent in sexual situations.

Has Romance?

The romance in Then Came You is intense and central to the plot.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

A woman with a secret . . .

Reckless beauty Lily Lawson delights in shocking London society. She will break any rule to get what she wants . . . and she is determined to stop her younger sister from marrying Alex, Lord Wolverton, a handsome and arrogant earl who has vowed never to fall in love.

A man who will do anything to possess her . . .

To Alex's fury, the headstrong hellion presents a temptation he can't resist. He vows to make her pay dearly for her interference-with her body, her soul, and her stubborn, well-guarded heart.

As Alex and Lily challenge each other at every turn, they are caught up in a white-hot desire that burns through every defense and exposes the mystery of Lily's past . . . and together they discover that love is the most dangerous game of all.

Ratings (9)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (2)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (22):

Read It (11)
Want To Read (6)
Not Interested (5)

1 comment(s)

katyana

Loved It

2 months

I really really enjoyed this one. The humorous banter, the fact that the h/h hated each other at first sight, the incredibly complicated, difficult secrets buried in their past... it all created a beautifully woven story. I will definitely read more Kleypas.

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Then Came You

Lisa Kleypas

Book 1 in the series:The Gamblers of Craven's