Taken By Surprise : Book Review

"Taken By Surprise" by Susan Johnson is an enthralling historical romance that unfolds against the backdrop of Regency England. The tale revolves around Lady Cassandra Vernham, a captivating and outspoken young widow, who finds herself irresistibly drawn to the enigmatic Marquess of Cade, Sebastian Beckford. As their desires and the scandalous nature of their relationship intertwine, both Cassandra and Sebastian are taken by surprise at the intensity of their passion.

Johnson's skillful writing immerses readers in the elegance and intrigue of the Regency era. Through vivid descriptions of opulent settings and luxurious clothing, she transports readers back in time, creating an alluring atmosphere that captivates the senses. The dialogue is clever and compelling, reflecting the spirited nature of the characters and adding an enjoyable banter to their interactions.

Lady Cassandra Vernham emerges as a strong and independent heroine, defying societal expectations with her resilience and determination. Her character proves to be refreshing and compelling, allowing readers to root for her throughout the story. Sebastian Beckford, on the other hand, is portrayed as brooding and mysterious, revealing his vulnerabilities and secrets gradually, adding depth to his character. The palpable chemistry between Cassandra and Sebastian adds an extra layer of excitement, and their passionate encounters are tastefully written with sensuality.

Beyond the passionate romance, "Taken By Surprise" delves into themes of trust, loyalty, and the power dynamics within aristocracy. The well-developed secondary characters bring complexity to the plot, each harboring their own secrets and motivations, creating twists and turns that keep readers engaged until the satisfying conclusion.

In conclusion, "Taken By Surprise" is an enchanting historical romance that transports readers to a time of scandal, passion, and unexpected love. Susan Johnson's impeccable storytelling and vivid writing style make this book a must-read for fans of the genre.

What are readers saying?

Susan Johnson's novel, "Taken By Surprise," has received a range of feedback from readers. The story revolves around an scandalous love affair between the main characters, and readers have had both positive and negative things to say about the writing style, plot development, and character portrayal.

Some readers praised Johnson's captivating and engaging writing style. They were immersed in the passionate and intense relationship between the characters, and appreciated the descriptive language and vivid imagery that brought the story to life.

On the other hand, some readers felt that the plot development was lacking. They found the story to be predictable and lacking new or unique elements in the romance genre. The pacing was also criticized, as some parts dragged on while others felt rushed. Additionally, a few reviewers thought the book was repetitive and lacked depth in supporting character development.

Opinions on the character portrayal in "Taken By Surprise" were also mixed. Some readers appreciated the complexity and relatability of the main characters. They enjoyed witnessing their growth and transformation throughout the story. However, others felt that the characters lacked depth and personality, making it difficult to connect with or invest in their journey.

Overall, "Taken By Surprise" has found an audience among readers who enjoy steamy romance novels. While there are critics who found fault with the plot and character development, others were captivated by Johnson's writing style and the intense love story she presented. Ultimately, readers' enjoyment of the book may depend on their personal preferences for romance novels and their willingness to overlook certain flaws in favor of an engaging story.

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