One PERFECT Rose

I just finished reading Mary Jo Putney's One Perfect Rose. And I found it to be...well...just about perfect.

When Stephen Kenyon, Duke of Ashburton, finds out he is dying, he sets off on a journey to come to terms with the devastating news. He hooks up with a traveling acting troop and falls in love with Rosalind, one of the players.

Putney's sensitive portrayal of Stephen's changing emotions is particularly complex, insightful and poignant. She expertly delves into his maelstrom of emotions: the desperation, fear, anger and, finally, some acceptance. Putney's excellent characterization also heightens the bittersweetness of Stephen's relationship with Rose since both of them know time is running out.

Of course, this is a romance novel so there is a happily ever after. The twist of how this happens is both surprising and satisfying. Putney leaves clues along the way but my theory as to what was really wrong with Stephen turned out to be completely wrong!

If you're looking for a particularly satisfying romantic read, I highly recommend One Perfect Rose.

Next up for me: Mary Wine's Highland Hellcat. It's the follow up to To Conquer a Highlander, which I first picked up after Mary was assigned to be my mentor in the Writing with the Stars contest.

Writing With the Stars

 For those who don't know, I am one of 10 finalists vying for the top prize in the contest: to be published by Kensington Brava!  In the first round, readers of RT Book Reviews vote for the Best First Paragraph and Last Line.

Click here to read all of the entries.

I hope you will consider voting for my entry, Seducing Charlotte. Be warned though, it's a little spicy! And, if you want to read more,  here's a sample of the FIRST CHAPTER.

There are only four days left to cast your vote in the first round. VOTING is quick and easy. You can click in, vote and be out in under a minute

I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY hope to move into the next round but I can't get there without your help!

I truly appreciate your support!