- First Date: Our story begins on a ship traveling to New York City where Lady Eva Hyde meets Phillip Mansfield. Mansfield is traveling home from Paris, and Eva is traveling to oversee the building of a hotel her father the famous E.M. Hyde designed. Only her father didn't develop it. She did. Her father has been ill for over two years with Alzheimer's a disease that wouldn't be diagnosed until 1906. On board, neither knows who the other is, as they exchange more than a few kisses. I loved the set-up and appreciated this time to get to know Eva and her predicament. Right away I liked this young woman who bears the title Lady Unlucky. Upon arriving in New York, the two never get to exchange last names despite Phillip's attempts to locate her before departing. I loved witnessing their surprised faces when Eva shows up to meet Mr. Mansfield. And I am all in! The chemistry, banter, denials, and situation quickly transported me.
- Second Date: I am currently watching The Alienist on television, and it is set in 1896 New York, and while it gave me a feel for the city, fashion and Four Hundred, Shupe wonderfully brought the city, social issues, crime, politics, and rapid changes occurring to life. Eva has shared who she is with Philip, but the two have agreed to not repeat what happened aboard ship. It was fun seeing them struggle with their attraction and the unorthodox situation of having Eva on the building site. Because her name is associated with being unlucky she is posing as Ms. Asford, Hyde's secretary. It caused quite the rumble and severed as the drama in the story. I enjoyed watching them tango. I laughed when they entered yet another arrangement. Poor Philip is flummoxed as Eva acts completely like a man at times. I adored her strength even if it all was a facade. Little side threads involving a lesbian, thugs and a renovation in Newport added interest and helped flesh out the characters. Phillip is completely swoon-worthy and with each page, and discovery, I fall a little harder.
- Third Date: Secrets unveiled, betrayal and disappointments had me flipping the pages. Once again I am amazed at Eva. Yes she sort of lied, but her reasons and the time period have allowed me to completely forgive her. But will Philip? The man needs to get his head out of his arse. You'll have to read to discover if these two find happily-ever-after. I concluded my final date and once again found myself impressed with Joanne Shupe. This series is my first experience with her writing. From the historical aspects to the secondary characters I felt as if I stepped back in time and joined an exclusive circle. Anyone for some Earl Grey?
Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on
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- 23 April, 2018: Reviewed