I’m not a romance fan, but I certainly like historical romances. I enjoy being transported to regency and victorian periods. However, while I have read several historical romances by contemporary authors, I have missed out on the classics of Georgette Heyer, the pioneer of Regency romances. When I came across her a few months ago, I was incredulous at my ignorance and was determined to make it up to myself. So here I’m reading my first Heyer and basking in happy contemplation of having found a new author of historical romances.
What I truly liked about Heyer in this novel is the lightness of the story, without any ambitious plot twists and forced suspensions that sometimes ruin the smooth flow of these novels. I’ve seen this too often in many contemporarily written historical romances. So many authors try to be too clever with the plot, forgetting that it is the simplicity of the plot, the historical setting, the chemistry, and the budding romance of the hero and heroine that attracts most readers to this genre. Light entertainment is certainly what I seek in them. And I’m truly glad to have found an author who has understood this.
Venetia is a sweet romance of two strong characters. I liked both Venetia and Damerel although the latter character was not quite developed. I normally like strong and sensible heroines, and Venetia answers that description. I also liked Venetia’s somewhat selfish but affectionate brother. He entertained me well. 🙂 The story is not grand, but it is quite enjoyable. The characters were interesting and the setting felt real. I also liked the contrast Heyer has drawn between the country and city way of life. It showed that there were different standards even among the rich!
I truly enjoyed this book. It was at present the very thing I needed – light, entertaining, and less taxing. I feel her style is the very antidote I need when I’m tired and low-spirited.
Rating: 3/5
