An evocative story set in early 19th century Albania, 'The Lion's Daughter' by Loretta Chase is a historical fiction that delves into a world controlled by the Ottoman Empire yet still holding onto its Illyrian roots. The plot follows the journey of Esme, a fierce half-English, half-Albanian girl, and Lord Varian, a penniless nobleman, as they navigate through political intrigue, personal growth, and unexpected love in a beautifully researched and nuanced setting.
The book presents a rich and complex narrative with multiple plot twists set across different countries, showcasing the characters' growth and evolving motives. The relationship between Esme and Varian is portrayed authentically, with both characters accepting and loving each other without the desire for change, leading to a compelling and captivating story filled with adventure and exceptional character interactions.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings for The Lion's Daughter include themes of violence, sexual attraction despite misconceptions of age, and political intrigue that may involve perilous situations.
Has Romance?
Yes, there is a strong romantic element present throughout The Lion's Daughter, with significant development of the romantic relationship between the main characters.
From The Publisher:
Esme Brentmore doesn't care that revenge isn't a suitable job for a woman. She's determined to avenge the murder of her beloved father, an enigmatic English aristocrat who lived in self-imposed exile. Honor demands that Esme let nothing and nobody stand in her way. That includes the handsome wastrel who's become entangled in her life, whose charm does not make up for his lazy and irresponsible character.
Having gambled away his entire family fortune, Varian St. George, Lord Edenmont, now lives by his wits and winning ways. A man who has always taken the path of least resistance - preferably in soft beds with willing women - he does not want to become embroiled in a mad quest with a hot-tempered and heavily armed redhead.
But forced to travel together through an exotic land, the mismatched pair soon discovers that friction can produce some very dangerous sparks ... more
Ratings (1)
Loved It (1) |
Reader Stats (2):
Read It (1) | |
Want To Read (1) |
1 comment(s)
I enjoyed it.
I loved the world of Albania, I loved exploring that culture and people. I loved Esme, who was so incredibly brave. I mostly loved Varian, though sometimes his pride was a nuisance -
I was shouting at him for not allowing her to be with him, to help, when they were back in England. Like, come on. Don't treat her like some English flower - accept her as she is. Helping you fix your estate, helping your people... this is what she has done for most of her life, and you are setting her aside now? Swallow your pride and treat her like the capable woman that she is, please.
I liked the wily Ali, and the intrigues of Albania and the unrest being stirred up.
I thought Jason was a douche for doing what he did, though. And it was shockingly idiotic for someone who is supposed to be this clever strategist.
How could he not imagine that his daughter would seek to avenge his murder? Come fucking on, I could see that even just 10 pages into the book. Had he just TOLD her the fucking plan, she may not have liked it, but at least she wouldn't have charged off to Tepelena to murder Ismal and sacrifice her life. This entire shitshow could have been avoided, if he had just not condescended and manipulated his bright, fierce daughter. He raised her to be a warrior, but treats her like a weak, useless girl. Idiot.
My only complaint is that Varian and Jason treat Esme like she's a moron. Yes, she has a temper, but at the end of the day, she's making sound decisions based on the information she has. Literally every mistake she made could be laid at the feet of some asshole who is scheming in some dumbass plan that involves her, but doesn't bother to inform her of it. Jason does that, Varian does that, and her grandmother does that. And the decisions Esme makes, I would have made too.
I hate that they never own up to their own responsibility for the messes, but just put everything on Esme and treat her like an idiot for doing THE RIGHT THING in the situation they have thrust her into.
So that's my quibble. But I really did enjoy the book.
What can you read after
The Lion's Daughter?
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
