Rainbow Reviews

BOOK BLURB:
Lost during a reckless decision the cherished estate is then left deserted for many years. Decades pass before the mansion comes alive again, with children's laughter, the echoing whinnies of horses and the rousing thrills of clandestine liaisons. Regrettably this couple’s attraction brings dire consequences should they be discovered, but utterly consumed by lust and loneliness they feel it a worthy risk.

BOOK REVIEW:
As the family’s sole male heir, Ambrose Standish daydreams about the family home lost in a card game. His father’s obsession in regaining the estate leaves Ambrose and his sisters destitute; the senior Standish dying before securing his only son an appropriate education and position. After a lengthy illness Ambrose is now fit to find employment, even if it means accepting manual labor. He is saved from backbreaking work when the Standish house owner returns, so needing a tutor for his son. Educating the young boy is not all there is, as the master of the house sets out to instruct Ambrose as well ... in the art of love.

His son’s poor health forces Rafe Goshawk to return to England although to his country estate. The manor in London holds dreadful memories of physical and verbal abuse under his father’s care. Rafe’s innate dislike for the manor overrules even his lover, Officer Francis Trenberry’s promises of frequent carnal joinings. His son, Sebastien’s welfare now governs his motives and actions, the only person in life he deeply loves ~ other than horses. This fact remains true until he meets the teacher. Rafe’s artful seduction of the young man unlocks all he kept safely hidden ... quite a trove of trust and love.

Introduced long ago to historical romance novels, Standish rekindles this reader’s love of this timeless genre. The story line moves smoothly, nurturing an unadulterated picturesque setting for a charming love affair. Swallowing his pride, Ambrose accepts the position as teacher for Goshawk’s son, that reminds him of the genteel lifestyle denied his family. Acquainting himself with his student, Ambrose also learns the multifaceted personality of his master. In the presence of his son, Rafe’s sardonic, callous demeanor falls away revealing a warm genuine affection. Then his many letters along with copious gifts tell of a selfless generosity. Although those actions mask a subtle wooing Ambrose has yet to conceive. Too sweet!

As a classic romance should, the youthful Ambrose at last submits to Rafe’s seasoned advances. If not for Rafe’s riding accident and the care the tutor unselfishly administers, their romance may have taken a bit longer. Anyhow, Ambrose craves the sensations inspired by the man’s voice and touch. Rafe’s usual stoic disposition is replaced with gentleness, compassion, and patience; that no other lover ever was bestowed. However, readers at this point will enjoy the suave rapport that shapes their love, each man discovering the other. All the while hiding behind a curtain of restrained propriety.

As is expected betrayal wedges between the lovers, as a man from Rafe’s past grossly violates Ambrose. Overwhelmed by despair, fear and feeling tainted, he keeps an emotional and physical distance from his lover. However, Rafe’s frustration real, weighted down with feeling fault for the attack plus unable to help in his lover’s recovery. Surrendering to loneliness coupled with alcohol, he falls into another man’s arms ~ Conte Achille Alfredo Bonetti de Alvisi. He more then quenches Rafe’s carnal hunger through dark couplings blotted with anger and misery. Ambrose’s tragedy continues once leaving France, returning to England. While under the employ of a minister, he is arrested for “buggery” followed by ten months in London’s notorious Newgate Prison. Not a kind place for a sensitive naive young man. Still the intrigue continues with Rafe finding out about Ambrose’s predicament, and again blaming himself. He wonders, if he had just left the boy alone ...?

Captivating and intricate love story, Standish captures the familiar favored historical romance elements. The most crucial is that dominating male who charms his submissive. However, there is no corset ripping ~ thank you very much ~ only the rendering of buttons from those period trousers. The historical accuracy solid within this 19th century setting that also comprises of Mr. Erastes’ genuine rendition of London’s sordid Newgate Prison and the many seedy characters who live there. Readers will cringe knowing that Ambrose has sunk so low, while wondering where the heck Rafe is. Mr. Erastes characterizations are strong, distinct though wholly appealing. Rafe struggles with letting go of the past and getting on with living today. Maybe his lover’s crisis will encourage him to reclaim the very person who offers that happiness. One can only hope.

Review by Pamela Jenewein

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