I read this book from time to time when I am craving something calming & steady. This story is a classic and has become one of my favorite Julie Garwood books. I just love the story of Lucas Ross (the epitome of masculinity & gorgeousness--American Man) & Taylor Stapelton (lovely English Lady).
Although I have to admit that when I read it for the first time, I was also frustrated by the same type of things other reviewers have complained about, such as the slow pace during the first part.
I think the worst part of the book is when Taylor's friend Victoria is introduced. I was so enchanted with the development of the love story between Lucas & Taylor that when Victoria was introduced in the storyline I was like, "what the....????" I felt like she was more of a distraction from the real story---Lucas & Taylor, because their attraction was magnetic & pretty potent from the start. I think Garwood messed up in the way she introduced Victoria. It was long, unnecessary & well...slow. I, for one, didn't know whether to be jealous for Taylor or angry at Lucas because he was paying so much attention to her. However, I suppose Lucas was really nice to her because she reminded him of his mother. Victoria was never a distraction to Lucas in his conquest of love for Taylor.
Anyhow, once the story gets on track and the plot develops, you really understand why Victoria is necessary & great part of the story.
One of the reasons I revisit this book from time to time is because of the sweetness in the love affair. Lucas adores Taylor & one of my favorite parts is when he caresses & pulls her into him for more loving embraces & kisses after they make love (Lucas Ross is a cuddler...LOL).
Also, Lucas studies Taylor well (mainly because the man can't keep his eyes off of her!!!), and is truly her knight in shinning armor--or should we say her Prince Charming. Taylor is quite a lady herself. She is more like a modern-day woman...the kind that can do it all. She is loving, effortlessly beautiful inside & out and is not pretentious in any way. She reaches out to others around her and is like the glue that makes everything work. She creates a loving home environment for everyone who needs her love.
As a PLUS---the love match between Hunter & Victoria was just perfect! I thought they had a really funny beginning & then a deeper wow-effect in their relationship. It is so cool how both Lucas & Taylor's best friends find love together...just perfect!
In addition, the sweet children, Georgie, Ali and Michael (Daniel-David) were also such sweet additions to his classic story. They just make your heart melt.
I tear up EACH TIME at the end when the grandmother, Lady Esther, is mentioned. She is the one who had the foresight to create a wonderful future with the needs of her girls (Taylor & the twins) in mind.---There couldn't have been a better ending. Lady Esther, loving grandmother found Taylor's Prince Charming.
The William Shakespeare quotes were fabulous! LOVE THIS BOOK!!
NARRATOR:
I LOVE Rosalyn Landor as a narrator!!! She is just superb! Yes, I even loved the voicing she made for Lucas Ross. She brings everything to life. THis is why I am addicted to audiobooks---due to fabulous narrators as herself.