Beach reading

I didn't actually read this while on the beach, but you definitely should. I am talking about The Masque of the Black Tulip, by Lauren Willig.

I got this when my friend hosted a book exchange party at her house last December (a brilliant idea) and it's been sitting on my shelf since then. I don't know why I didn't read it earlier this year; perhaps I was unconsciously waiting until summer started, because it is a perfect summer read. I have an affinity for historical English spy/romance/mystery type books, which is exactly what this is. This is actually the second book in a fairly long series, the first being The Secret History of the Pink Carnation. From what I understand, each book focuses on a different character, so the story line continues but through someone else's eyes, and you can read them as a stand alone work or as one in a series.

The story in The Masque of the Black Tulip is actually two stories in one. Modern day Eloise is an American graduate student of history, studying in London. She finds letters and other historical documents that unmask "one of history's greatest spies, the Pink Carnation, who saved England from Napoleon." (From the back of the book.) She continues to research and discovers letters about another spy, the Black Tulip, which is what this book is about. The story goes back and forth between Eloise and her budding romance with Colin, the young owner of the country home holding these amazing archives, and 1803 London and Paris, the world of the Black Tulip.

This was a fun read. If you're looking for historical accuracy (particularly about the attitudes and behaviors of young women in 1803), you must look elsewhere. However, if you want a highly entertaining, fast-paced, and well written romance/mystery, this is a good place to start. Also, there is sex! I think I actually blushed in one section. Reading this made me realize how rarely I read a book that explicitly describes sex. It is definitely not a big part of the book (it's all about the chase), but what is there packs a punch.

Overall, I thought it was funny, sweet, and a good read. I will look for another one in the series. I really enjoyed the modern day Eloise sections of the book, and would read more to find out what happens to her, especially. If I'm going to read a book like this I prefer Tasha Alexander's Lady Emily Series, but this was pretty fun too. Willig's website header reads, Intrigue, Espionage, Romance, Swordplay, Comedy, which sums it up quite well.

Comments

[babelbabe]

sounds a little like Jennifer Donnelly's Tea Rose/Winter Rose novels. have you read those?

[Kristin]

I haven't--I'll have to check them out. Thanks!