Libertine's Kiss

Judith James

Book 1 in the series:Rakes and Rogues of the Restoration

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'Libertine's Kiss' by Judith James is a historical romance novel set in 17th century England during the reign of King Charles II. The story follows the characters of William and Elizabeth, childhood friends who reunite after years of separation filled with hardships. William, a charming rogue with a troubled past, and Elizabeth, a strong and determined woman, navigate their feelings for each other amidst a backdrop of political intrigue, personal demons, and a quest for love and redemption. The writing style is descriptive, painting vivid scenes and emotions that captivate the reader and immerse them in the world of the Restoration era.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with a mix of charm and vulnerability, facing inner demons and histories that enrich their relationship journey.

Writing/Prose:

The writing exhibits lush descriptions and emotional resonance, utilizing vivid imagery and effective flashback techniques to enrich character backstories and historical context.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative unfolds during the tumultuous mid-1600s, centering on the reconnection of childhood friends against complex political upheaval, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and personal redemption.

Setting:

Set in Restoration England, the story deftly intertwines fictional elements with historical figures and societal norms of the time.

Pacing:

The pacing fluctuates, with a compelling buildup in the beginning that transitions to a more romantic focus, though some sections may feel slower due to scene redundancy.

Night had descended hours ago. He wandered a dark wilderness that was almost void of form. The sound of musket fire and the shouts of his pursuers had faded in the gathering storm. Now a mounting wind...

Notes:

The story takes place during the mid-1600s in England, during the Civil War and the early reign of Charles II.

William de Veres is a royalist cavalier who is friends with Charles I.

Lizzie, the Puritan widow, was actually childhood friends with William de Veres.

Lizzie's family were Roundheads, opposed to the royalists.

William is depicted as a charming rogue, struggling with his past and using alcohol and women to cope.

Lizzie's abusive marriage heavily influences her views on relationships and independence.

The novel explores the themes of healing, redemption, and the complexities of love.

William's character is loosely inspired by the historical figure John Wilmot, the 2nd Earl of Rochester.

The narrative includes rich historical detail and the presence of real historical figures, enhancing the connection to the past.

The story shifts from a dark mood the initial half to a lighter tone as Lizzie and William reconnect.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers may include themes of childhood trauma and abusive relationships, though these are dealt with sensitively and are not graphically depicted.

Has Romance?

The novel contains a strong romantic element, focusing on the evolving relationship between the protagonists.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Libertine, court poet, crony of King Charles II, the brilliant, witty, and damaged William DeVeres get's a second chance at life and love when he is unexpectedly reunited with his childhood sweetheart, Elizabeth Walters, a strong and determined young woman who knows who and what she wants. "Fueled by sizzling sensuality and sharp wit, James' refreshingly different historical deftly re-creates the glittering, colorful court of Charles II while also delivering an unforgettable love story." BOOKLIST starred review, John Charles. Judith James juggles poetry, Restoration court culture, and fairytale references with an almost perfect sense of timing, and the result is a world that springs vividly to life... I find myself wanting to compare it to something, but there is really nothing out there quite like this." Lynn Spenser All About Romance. "Fueled by sizzling sensuality and sharp wit, James' refreshingly different historical deftly re-creates the glittering, colorful court of Charles II while also delivering an unforgettable love story." BOOKLIST starred review John Charles "Judith James juggles poetry, Restoration court culture, and fairytale references with an almost perfect sense of timing, and the result is a world that springs vividly to life. I find myself wanting to compare it to something, but there is really nothing out there quite like this." Lynn Spenser All About Romance. Nominated as Best British Isles Historical by Romantic Times, a Romantic Times Top Pick and AAR Desert Island Keeper, Libertine's Kiss features a hero based on John Wilmot, the notorious libertine, poet, and friend of King Charles II. "Historical details, poetic quotations and fictional characters based on real individuals blend perfectly in Libertine's Kiss. William and Elizabeth's story is compelling, sexy as can be and expertly told. Libertine's Kiss is everything a historical romance should be and more. Don't miss this one! READERTOREADER Winner of IPPY Gold for the critically acclaimed Broken Wing, award-winning author Judith James' Rakes and Rogues of the Restoration series transports you to the thrilling days of highwaymen, cavaliers, courtiers, and spies. With the historical breadth of Phillipa Gregory, the scorching sensuality of Elizabeth Hoyt, and vibrant characters that leap off the page to linger long after the tale is done, these are love stories you won't soon forget! Don't miss the other books in this series Soldier of Fortune (The King's Courtesan) The Highwayman

Reader Stats (3):

Read It (1)
Not Interested (2)

1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

1 month

DNF on chapter 10. The romance where not for me, really disliked the main love interest and don't feel like reading a whole book about him

What can you read after
Libertine's Kiss?

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About the Author:

Award-winning author Judith James has worked as a trail guide, horse trainer, and clinical psychologist. An avid reader and history buff, she has traveled, worked and lived in many places, including the Arctic, Ireland, London and France.

She has found the perfect place to write on the East Coast, with a view of the ocean from her window. Judith's writing combines her love of history, romance, and adventure with her keen interest in the complexities of human nature, and the heart's capacity to heal. She is currently in service to a cranky elderly cat who thinks she can type and delights in teaching lessons about backing up files.

Judith James awards include

LIBERTINE'S KISS

-Nominated RT Best British Isles Historical

-Booklist starred review

-Romantic Times Top Pick

-AAR Desert Island Keeper

SOLDIER OF FORTUNE (The King's Courtesan)

-Romantic Times Top Pick

THE HIGHWAYMAN

-Heroes and Heartbreakers Best Reads 2014

BROKEN WING

-Independent Publisher's Awards IPPY Gold Medal Winner

-Romance Novel TV Best Debut

-Historical Novels Review Editor's Choice

-AAR Desert Island Keeper

-AAR Honorable Mention Best Book

-AAR Buried Treasure

HIGHLAND REBEL

-One of the best of 2009 Barnes and Noble

-Historical Novels Review Editor's Choice

-One of the best of 2009 Dear Author

Ms. James is always pleased to hear from fellow readers and writers and invites you to visit her on Facebook, her webpage or on twitter.

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