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Sleeping Beauty

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A lush, romantic story of a retired courtesan, Coco Wild, who falls in love with a younger man, James Stoker, known as England's hero after returning from Africa. The plot revolves around James pursuing Coco despite societal expectations, their deep and complex love story, and the challenges they face due to their unconventional relationship. The writing style is described as engaging, with well-developed lead characters and a satisfying love story that delves into themes of independence, societal norms, and historical context.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Coco presenting independence and complexity, while James embodies honor and emotional depth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lush and poetic, showcasing high-quality prose that captures deep emotional connections.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on the romance between a former courtesan and a younger knight, exploring societal expectations and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting of Victorian England serves as a rich backdrop for its themes of societal norms and personal conflicts.

Pacing:

The pacing is variable, sometimes slow but generally engaging through strong character development.
James Stoker, or rather—he liked to remind himself—Sir James Stoker these days, dashed between horses and carriages, finally leaping a puddle to get himself across a busy London street. The street, Bl...

Notes:

Judith Ivory is a gifted author known for her character-driven narratives.
The heroine, Coco Wild, is an older former courtesan who becomes a wealthy widow.
The hero, James Stoker, is a younger scholar and explorer who falls in love with Coco.
Coco has a colorful past, having been a mistress to princes and known in society as a courtesan.
James, unlike the typical alpha male hero, is more of a beta male who openly shows his emotions.
The story features a refreshing twist where the heroine is the rake, rather than the hero.
Coco's independence and maturity make her a unique and engaging character.
The romance unfolds with a notable love scene that is described as very passionate and well-written.
Coco's past as a courtesan poses societal challenges in her romance with James, adding depth to their relationship.
The book touches on themes of social double standards between men and women, particularly regarding past relationships.
Sleeping Beauty has a meet-cute that happens at a dentist's office, adding an unusual twist to the romance.
The plot is set in Victorian England, providing a richly detailed historical backdrop.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Themes of social stigma from pasts, discussions of infidelity, and societal judgments may be unsettling for some readers.

Has Romance?

The book features a central romantic storyline that is intense and pivotal to the plot.

From The Publisher:

Once, a long time ago, Coco Wild learned to never allow a man's kiss to move her, for that way led to downfall. A slender beauty with alluring eyes, she built impregnable defenses around her emotions. The men who came to adore her, fought to conquer her and learn her mysteries, made her the toast of London, but none were able to rouse her passions.

Beauty Awakens

But that hard-taught lesson is about to unravel because of Sir James Stoker. Back in England with a treasure of gold from his adventures, newly knighted by Queen Victoria herself, and feted everywhere, the handsome explorer has the world at his feet. He's exactly the man Coco might have dreamed about when she was young: a tall, fair hero with a charming smile. Now he's turned his energy toward winning her, the most desirable and the least attainable woman he knows; and Coco's aft-aid James may just find his way past the thorns that have so long protected her from the world, and awaken her slumbering heart...with just one kiss.

Reader Stats (3):

Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (1)
 
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