The Apothecary`s Daughter (Superior Collection)

by Julie Klassen

[ladygrey]

There were several things I liked about this book.

Not initially, though. Initially, the language sounded so stiff, not in a way that is authentic to the time period but in an awkward way like the author is trying to hard. But that seemed to only exist in the prologue and I didn't notice anything but charming dialog and good characters the rest of the book.

I really liked that, unlike most regency romance novels where there is the man everyone wants her to be with and the one she truly wants and will inevitably end up with, there were lots of men in this story, lots of possibilities and no certainty until 3/4 of the way through who she might finally love. All of the men were viable in their own way, or apt to surprise. It made reading the story so much more fun with so many different variables.

I also really liked how the faith aspect was handled, because it wasn't heavy handed. It felt very true to the time period and very much what was a part of people's lives. If I hadn't known the publisher, I wouldn't have guessed it was Christian fiction.

The only reason I had to give it 3 stars instead of 4 is that the romance wasn't quite captivating enough. Of course, there were plenty of men to flirt with and dance with and for Lilly to be admired by. And there were moments that were very good. But even in the resolution, there was no sense of grand fulfillment, no overtures of romances once they were finally together.

But still, good book and enjoyable read.