Prelude for a Lord: A Book Look Blogger's Review

There is nothing more relaxing than a cup of hot tea, a cozy spot on a the couch, and a good book...especially if the book is long! I love long novels that aren't over too soon. I feel so satisfied when a novel touches me emotionally and when I get to stay in that place for a while. Extensive plots and character development are what I look for in a good story and these can only be accomplished well with lengthy prose. 

Camille Elliot is a new author to me, but this first novel of hers which I read has created a new fan! I had the chance to read this on our family camping trip this summer. I'll be honest, camping is not my favorite thing so a good book which transported me to the elegance and wealth of the Regency Period was a wonderful reprieve. I have been a long-time lover of Jane Austen's writings and therefore already felt the romance of this period. I'm also a musician and understand the passionate way one can feel as they are playing a piece. These two pairings made the story all the more engaging. 

I don't want to give too much of the story away, but the basic premise revolves around Alethea Sutherton, an amazing violinist in a time when for a woman to play such an instrument was scandalous. She encounters Lord Dommick, a fellow violinist and a man haunted by war. This novel is filled with suspense and intrigue as it is discovered that Alethea's violin, given to her by her beloved friend, is being sought by nefarious individuals. 

The development of the characters as the story progresses was just delightful. Plenty of time was given to see each of the main characters grow. I also appreciated the attention to side characters and their development as well. For instance, the aunt with whom Alethea lives is much more complex than at first glance, but rather than just stating this we see through her actions that what she shows on the exterior does not reveal her true heart. 

I highly recommend this novel. You will be transported to a different era and I doubt you will be able to put it down!

Disclosure:  I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook.com® <http://BookLook.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.