Violet

I loved Violet. This book was amazing. I have never read anything by Lauren Royal, but that is going to change. She is definitely a rising star in the romance genre. Violet is the story of Violet Ashcroft, the oldest of the three Ashcroft daughters. She believes herself to be unmarriageable, because she is average. Not tall and beautiful like Rose, her middle sister, or Lily, who is a kind hearted soul, just plain average Violet.When Lord Lakefield, Ford Chase, comes to stay at his property for awhile with his niece Jewel, she gets the chance to meet a scientist, because her youngest sibling, Rowan, becomes fast friends with Jewel. Ford shows Violet things she has never seen before, and he does some of the sweetest things in the world for her, such as making her glasses so she can see correctly. Unfortunately, both the protagonists have doubts though: Violet doesn't believe a man could ever love her without wanting her money, and Ford doesn't believe he is good enough for Violet because he doesn't have enough money.As they find their way to love, the reader will be enthralled with the amazing research that went into this novel, and some surprising guest appearances such as Sir Isaac Newton, Robert Hooke, John Locke, and some other notable 18th century scientists. Lauren Royal definitely did her research on the Restoration Period, and it shows as historical information is weaved seamlessly into the characters' lives and interactions with each other. The reader even gets a tantalizing glimpse of her next novel, Lily, and what is in store for her.All in all, a great historical romance novel. I picked this novel up on a whim, thinking it sounded somewhat interesting, and I was right. It was great! I am going to go back and read her Jewel trilogy now. If you are looking for a interesting, fresh perspective on the romance genre, then Lauren Royal is your ticket.

I don't know what it is about Lauren Royal's books -- is it the historical aspects mixed with characters I care about? Is it the steamy scenes that are evocative without being trashy? Is it the interesting plot lines that don't condescend to the reader and are actually interesting? -- but she's the first romance writer whose work I've actually enjoyed reading. The characters in the books are complex and yet easy to relate to, and there are funny scenes as well as thrilling ones. I usually opt for complex fiction titles and was happy to find that in many ways, Royal's books ARE complex fiction titles. I can't wait for the next book in the "flower" trilogy!

Though he is a genius, Ford Chase has no idea how to be a father to his niece when he is given care of her to prevent her from contracting the measles from her siblings. Being an uncle for a little while at a time is one thing, but full time care quite another. His luck improves when his neighbor, Violet Ashcroft, gets sent over to see him, and has her brother, Rowan, who is close in age to the niece, Jewel, along.While the two children become playmates and fast friends, Ford and Violet find they have much in common. Though neither ever thought to find love, favoring more intellectual pursuits, love begins to find them. However, Violet can not believe that anyone, especially not a handsome man as Ford is, could prefer a schlorly, plain Jane as she to her lovely sisters. Yet, he does, and shows it in little ways, like inventing glasses for her. Ford is indeed a genius ahead of his time, and Violet can see this. She therefore tries to help him by getting his watch design patented and attempting to sell it for him. Will he be able to accept her help? Will she be able to believe in his love and put aside her determination to never wed?This light hearted book about two people who are able to see the true beauty in others is a quick read. Like many historical romance heroines, Violet is unconventional and forward thinking who requires a special man, like Ford, to see her as someone worthy of love. Fans of Amanda Quick will find this romantic pair to be exactly their cup of tea. The story is in no way bogged down by the child element, as some books tend to be; in fact, the "romance" between Lady Jewel and Rowan is charming. Also delightful is Violet's mother; and readers will look forward to seeing her matchmaking plans for the other two daughters in upcoming books LILY and ROSE.

Lauren Royal knows what she's doing. Every one of her books has been tremendous and she keeps on getting better. I enjoyed Violet very, very much. Even if you're not a huge romance fan, this is good reading. There's history, science, geography, gardening and adventure all disguised as a love story. Who could ask for more?

Violet captures your heart as well as Ford's. I fell in love with her quirky family and can't wait to read Rose and Lily's story. This author can't write fast enough for me. Royal handles details of long ago life with the ease of this century's language. History sparkles and becomes alive in her books.