A Wild Pursuit

A Wild Pursuit By Eloisa James

Publisher’s Description:

It is whispered behind the fans of London’s dowagers and in the corners of fashionable ballrooms that scandal follows willfully wild Lady Beatrix Lennox wherever she goes.  Three years before, the debutante created a sensation by being found in a distinctly compromising position.  Now, the ton has branded her as unmarriageable, her family has called her a vixen, and Beatrix sees no reason not to go after what – and who – she wishes.

And she wants Stephen Fairfax-Lacy, the handsome Earl of Spade.  Beatrix, with her brazen suggestions and irresistibly sensuous allure, couldn’t be more different from the earl’s ideal future bride.  Yet Beatrix brings out a wildness in the earl he has tried to deny far too long.  Still, he’s not about to play love’s game by Lady Beatrix’s rules.  She may be used to being on top in affairs of the heart, but that will soon change.

Ratings:

(1=unacceptable, 2=poor, 3=acceptable, 4=good, 5=excellent)

Continuity/Flow – 3

This book did get slightly tangled up in the points of view.  Between Bea, Stephen, Esme, and Sebastian there was plenty of movement, but there were also some points of view from Arabella, Helene, and Honoratia.  It did get a bit confusing to follow a couple of times.  As such there were also a few minor discrepancies in titles and pronouns.

Sex – 3

While not completely overtaxing, there did seem to be a great many love scenes (or almost love scenes) in this book.  More than half of them were courtesy of Esme (who was very pregnant) and Sebastian, and were bordering on risqué in nature.  (Note: I am not a prude.  I did enjoy the scenes.  I am simply commenting on the number).   

Language – 4

Bea tries to be shocking in every aspect of her nature, and this includes her language.  While her language is certainly nothing outrageous by today’s standards, during that time period it would have been considered quite vulgar.

Storyline – 5

Despite the tangled points of view and the many love scenes, I found the storyline quite enjoyable.  The idea of a female version of a rake (Bea) pursuing, and being pursued by, a puritanical male (Stephan) is quite an interesting twist.  I also thought the idea of Stephan (being puritanical) having three lovers accounted to him at once was quite humorous.  Sebastian and Esme’s story came to a very pleasing close, and we saw a glimpse of Helene and Rees’ story finally taking off.

Historical Accuracy – 5

As I have said before in my previous reviews, Ms. James is very studious in her historical research for her novels.  I will, therefore, forgive her for her admitted lapse in giving Richard Barnfield the name “Stephen” (probably a mix up with the hero’s name). 

Overall – 4

This was a very satisfying read.  I believe that Sebastian and Esme’s story really pushed this one into a different realm on emotions.  To see a story played out over the course of three different novels is quite an emotional bonding for a reader.  Then, on top of that, to create new characters and not have them lost in the shuffle is an achievement like no other.  Brava, Ms. James!    

Rant:

I had hoped the story with Fanny would end differently.  While I am sympathetic of people who have suffered loss in their life, there is not accounting for the horrid way she treated her daughter and sister.  I guess not every character gets to atone for their sins.

Rave:

The poetry reading at the end of the book was FABULOUS!