Berkley Sensation
October 6, 2009
ISBN: 978-0425230992
Marrying for love can be a challenge. . .
Edward, Marquess of Foye, would have been happy to continue his life as an unmarried gentleman rake. His brother’s death changed everything. As the last of his line, Edward must now marry. Heart already broken by a capricious young girl, he vows to find an older woman-seasoned, mature. . .and no threat to his feelings.
Falling in love can be dangerous. . .
Sabine Godard was educated by an Oxford don beyond what was proper. Her studies became her salvation after her past left her unwilling to accept the touch of any man. Though she never intended to fall in love, when she and Edward meet, passion defies logic. Together they explore temptation and sensuality, healing old wounds. . .until events require them to risk everything for their love.
How this came about:
In February of last year I read and thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Jewel’s novel Scandal and reviewed the book here. Renee from “Renee’s Book Addiction“, and Christine, from “The Happily Ever After” blogs both commented that they would like to read the book. Renee had been waiting a long time for it to come in at her library, so I e-mailed her and asked if she would like my copy, and off it went to California. After Renee finished “Scandal”, she asked if I would mind if it went to Minneapolis, to stay with Carolyn from “The Thrillionth Page“, and I said not at all as long as it ultimately went to Christine. So my copy of “Scandal” really made the ’rounds’, which was awesome!
When I learned “Indiscreet” was to be published I contacted Renee, Christine and Carolyn and asked if they would be interested in doing a ’round robin’ again and maybe a little discussion post about the book and they all kindly agreed. We got together on iChat one night before Christmas which brings us to today. 
It’s been great fun and I want to thank Renee, Christine and Carolyn for taking time out of their busy schedules to join in.
Renee and I both have Giveaways planned today so be sure to stop by her blog and Christine has a “special” post planned. Carolyn is working hard on her craft of writing, if you notice the widget in my right sidebar a certain someone has a novel hitting the shelves very soon! (WOOT) Make sure and leave a comment here if you want to be entered for a choice of either “Indiscreet” or “Scandal”, see info below.
I wanted to comment that I think the cover art for both of Ms. Jewel’s historical novels is truly beautiful and sensual.
Our thoughts:
Christine: One thing that I loved about Indiscreet was the setting of the novel and how wonderfully and accurately Ms. Jewel incorporated such an exotic setting into the story. The story takes place during the early Regency England time period, but is almost entirely set in Turkey. I think it’s quite obvious how carefully and the author researched the region, its people and culture during this time period. The physical descriptions of the setting, were, in my opinion, perfectly orchestrated. I was easily and instantly brought into the setting and could not only acutely visualize the physical surroundings, but found I could just about feel the heat on my skin, smell and taste the foods, and hear the foreign chatter of the language and animals that would be a marketplace in a city outside of Constantinople, Turkey during that time period. I thought it was wonderful. Did anyone else feel transported to Turkey like I did when they read this novel?
Lea: I too enjoyed the exotic setting of Indiscreet, and thought Ms. Jewell’s descriptive prose and graphic imagery was outstanding. It think the setting of this novel added to the excitement she incorporated into what for me was a thrilling adventure story. I like learning about learning about different regions of the world in my fiction reading and Ms. Jewel made Sabine and Foye’s journey a truly pleasurable one.
Carolyn: I totally echo that about the location – it was vivid and fascinating. I really appreciated getting this insight on the precarious relationship between the Turkish power-brokers of the time and English nationals living there, and the sense that the English people were cut off from the protection of the crown, in a land with different customs and laws, but creating their own little Regency islands within it. I thought Jewel used the clash of the cultures imaginatively. Also, it was interesting how Sabine has so few rights and powers as a supposedly fallen women, just within English society, and then English aristocrats as a whole have little power when in Turkey.
Renee: It’s funny, cause typically “exotic” settings aren’t really my thing in romance. (For some reason, I do enjoy them in other genres. Inconsistent, I know.) However, Carolyn Jewel did do such a great job with bringing 19th century Turkey to life. What made it work for me was that it wasn’t too idealized or romanticized. It did feel like she grounded it in research and yet, neither the action nor the characters got too bogged down or overwhelmed by the setting.
Christine: I enjoyed both of the lead characters in Indiscreet very much and really enjoyed watching them fall in love. To me, Miss Sabine Godard and Edward, the Marquess of Foye’s love story developed realistically and very naturally. Despite the obsession with Foye’s “monster” image that I thought was a bit over done, I liked that while they found each other physically attractive, they first and foremost were attracted to each other because of their intelligence and wit, their similarities and their differences, and quite simply they enjoyed each other’s company. Throughout the story, they both had their doubts about each other’s intentions and true feelings, and they also had some serious obstacles to overcome, but I never once thought they didn’t belong together and kept turning the pages until they had their happily ever after.
Did any of you find Foye’s “monster” image over done? I realize the author wanted to emphasize that Foye was not this perfect Adonis of a man –which I think is great, by the way– but I thought Foye’s own obsession with his size and unsymmetrical facial features was on the verge of excessive. It’s not like his physical appearance affected his self confidence. He was actually quite matter of fact about it, so why keep bringing it up? Especially since Sabine never showed objection to his looks and even admitted to him early on that she actually found him attractive.
Lea: I also felt Sabine and Foye’s relationship developed quite naturally, under the circumstances over the course of the story. IMHO one of Ms. Jewel’s strengths as an author is her ability to write introspective thoughts and scenes for her characters and I think this was very well done in the case of Sabine and Foye. I could really sense these character’s emotions and the POV transitions were very smooth.
I agree with Christine, however I did find Foye’s obsession with his appearance was over done and need not have been reiterated so may times. That being said, he was certainly a strong male protagonist and I quite liked him.
Personally, and this was my own subjective reading experience of Indiscreet, I found Sabine to be rather cold. I don’t think this was a bad thing given her upbringing and trials and tribulations over the course of the story, however I did have difficulty becoming invested in this character’s story for whatever reason.
Carolyn: Oh, what’s funny is I enjoyed having the picture of Foye kept alive in my mind’s eye. I had such a strong sense of his personality, of him being a thoughtful, quiet man who is moved to throw aside his plans and really act the action hero for a bit. I also enjoyed that he was older than her – did you guys? It seemed fitting for Sabine’s intelligence and maturity, and he had a bit of Knightly in him (from Austen’s Emma) which I loved. I just ate up that initial interaction between them, that tea-leaf reading bit. it’s one of my fave scenes. That and the kiss at the lonely tower!! Do you guys have favorite scenes?
Renee: I really loved how Sabine and Foye connected on such a deep level, right away. To me that’s a tricky thing to convey without feeling “insta-love”-ish, but here, it was done very well.
Foye’s self-image (and the frequent mentions of his appearance) were fine for me. To me, it spoke more to his own self-consciousness that people tend to have despite the image they may project. Since Carolyn Jewel’s style when writing about her characters tends toward the introspective, this worked. Also, Sabine’s restraint felt really consistent with how she was affected by her experience with the slanderous Crosshaven and her current relationship with her uncle.
Carolyn, my favorite scene was when they were saying goodbye in the courtyard at her uncle’s, before they leave for Kilis. Oh! I love all that passion restrained by the need to be circumspect. They are having such an emotionally naked moment, but are out in the open where they can be discovered by her uncle or the servants. I love the tension in that scene!
Also, when she draws his portrait. So steamy! 
Christine: I loved reading Indiscreet and could barely put the book down. I have to admit, though, that I got a little tripped up with the ending. There was a last minute plot device that I thought was unnecessary and actually pulled me out of the story. I’ve seen other readers mention this in their reviews as well, so I know it isn’t just me. However, since everything else about Indiscreet was just lovely, I’m forgiving of this little pitfall.
Lea: I too enjoyed Indiscreet, I have to preface this by saying that I liked “Scandal” Ms. Jewel’s previous historical romance more. However, aside from my issues with Sabine and I too had a real niggle with the particular plot twist at the end; the exciting plot, the action and the setting of this novel kept me turning the pages.
Carolyn: Right, that plot device. I didn’t like it either, but it’s such a tiny little flourish at the end, it didn’t much change my overall thought of the book. Especially because the action in the second half in of the tale was so damn exciting! Really, one of the most exciting adventures I’ve read in a historical in a long while – I was just turning pages breathlessly, on the total edge of my seat. So the end device, it created balance, but I didn’t need it.
Renee: Yeah, that particular plot-device is a real hot button for me. It pulled me out of the book, too, Christine. I think, also, because there had been so much great action in the last half of the book, it wasn’t really necessary. At least it was quickly resolved.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Christine: Overall, Indiscreet was wonderfully written, beautifully descriptive and a joy to read. I just love historical romances that incorporate a richly descriptive setting, intelligent and interesting characters, political intrigue and romantic adventure in which the love story is clearly the driving force behind the entire novel. Indiscreet had all of this and I enjoyed it tremendously. I will definitely bump Scandal up higher in the TBR pile and keep my eye out for future historical romances by Carolyn Jewel.
Lea: I agree with Christine that “Indiscreet” was a well written novel, with rich descriptive prose and a setting that enhanced Foye and Sabine’s story. I have one of Ms. Jewel’s paranormal stories in my stacks and am looking forward to the read.
Carolyn: Christine! I forgot you didn’t read Scandal! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. And unlike Lea and Renee, much as I enjoyed Scandal, I prefer this one. I found it incredibly memorable and vivid. And honestly, on a sheer writerly level, I’m always impressed by Carolyn Jewel. I need to get to the Jewel paranormals.
Renee: Well, given that Scandal was one of my favorite books of last year, and My Wicked Enemy was one of my favorite paranormals, my expectations were pretty high. While Scandal remains my favorite historical by Carolyn Jewel, Indiscreet is still an excellent read.
Berkley SensationFebruary 3, 2009
ISBN: 978-0-425-22551-6
The earl of Banallt is no stranger to scandal. But when he meets Sophie Evans, the young wife of a fellow libertine, even he is shocked by his reaction. This unconventional and intelligent woman proves to be far more than an amusing distraction– she threatens to drive him to distraction. Unlike the women who usually fall at Banallt’s feet, and into his bed, Sophie refuses to be seduced. And soon Banallt desires her more than ever– and for more than an illicit affair.
Years later, the widowed Sophie is free, and Banallt is determined to win the woman he still loves. Unfortunately, she doesn’t believe his declaration of love and chivalrous offer of marriage– her heart has already been broken by her scoundrel of a husband. And yet, Sophie is tempted to indulge in the torrid affair she’s always fantasized about. Caught between her logical mind and her long-denied desire, Sophie must thwart Banallt’s seduction– or risk being consumed by the one man she should avoid at all costs…
I have not read either book and am wondering how I missed them they look great. The cover remind me of the great one we used to see
A new for me Author books ? wow…count me in
Love the cover art , too! And the book sounds very interesting
Love the round up ladies and it's nice to hear your varied points of view…
I no longer read historical – but this one seems to have all the hallmark of what makes a pretty decent historical…
I might look into her paranormal work – as you all seem to agree that Jewel does have some style…
Thank Lea – I enjoyed this read over my cup of tea…
E.H>
Lea you have introduced me to so many "new to me authors" that I have a good feeling this will be another!!
Count me in, I love the cover hunk and the story sounds great.
MsM
What a fun way to read a book! Love this discussion. Please enter me
Wow, this post is very interesting. I have already been to Carolyn's place. You ladies had some very interesting view points!
Toss my name in the ring as I have not read nor own either of these books!
Hope you had a great weekend!
They both sound good, I'd like to be included! tWarner419@aol.com
Hey!! This was So much fun, Lea! Love the post. Yay!
I have and loved "Scandal." Heard great buzz about "Indiscreet," would love a chance to win a copy. Thank you!
No need to enter me in the contest, but I will definitely pimp it for y'all later in the week.
I've been thinking about trying out these books, and I have to say they look and sound fabulous!
This was so much fun to read and discuss together. Thank you so much for putting it and pulling us together, Lea. You're the BEST!
That was so much fun, Lea! I'm so glad we got to chat about Indiscreet (and all the other things, both by iChat and email).
I love Carolyn Jewel's writing. (Have you read her paranormals? I can't remember. They are really great, too!) Though, I'm bummed her next book isn't coming out till June 2011.
Thanks again for getting the ball rolling on this!
You all sure seem to love the book, and that last. Makes me very very curious. And the cover art truly is lovely!
Count me in
Ohh i LOVE Indiscreet's cover! It's so gorgeous (and yummy!) I've read very good reviews and i'd love to read it.
I didn't know about Scandals *was i living under a rock?* and i am now very excited about this one too.
I have Scandal on my keeper shelf and I'd love to read Indescreet. Thanks for all your thoughts!
Hi Lea,
Loved to read all your differnet view points!
Haven't read either book but have heard great things about them!
Please enter me in the giveaway, thanks!
Hi Lea, Carolyn, Christine, and Renee!
I really enjoyed the round robin review, it was too much fun! I have one of Ms. Jewel's books in my stacks, I'll have to hunt it down, and give it a read.
Thanks!!
Dottie
Ooh, I've been hearing good things about Ms. Jewel's writing but haven't picked up her books yet… Thanks for the intro and review!
Ooh! I would love to read Indiscreet. I have heard some great things about that book. Please enter me. Thank you!
I have read her paranormal work, but not the historical.
kissinoak at verizon dot net
"Indiscreet" has been on my wish list ever since I read the wonderful reviews and fell in love with the story line! I agree that the cover art is very beautiful. I would love to win!
U.S. Resident, GFC Follower, Subscriber
gcwhiskas at aol dot com
Please don't enter me in your contest, because I already have this book. But I did want to say how pleased I am to see Indiscreet getting some love. I just adored this book.
MY favorite part was while Sabine was disguised as a boy. Cross-dressing performance is my academic specialty, so I can be pretty picky about how it is handled. I loved the way Carolyn Jewel used the device to have Sabine reflect on her actual gender role and what it meant. The section on gender was really well done, and it fit right in, because of her reflective writing style.
I haven't had a chance to read any of Carolyn Jewel's historical work, but if they're anything like her other books, they'll be fabulous.
Hi everyone, thanks for your great comments and entering the giveaway!
Still at work here but I've got everyone's name down and will say Hi later!
L
I enjoyed how all of you discussed – fun to get different opinions out there. I've heard great things about Indiscreet and Scandal – would love to win the latter. I'm also a fan of the bold colors on the covers- and of course the cover art itself.
I love how the three of you bonded over "Scandal." I'd love to enter the contest!! Thanks!!
inthehammockblog (at) gmail (dot) com
I really enjoyed the first book too! So please count me in to win Carolyn's next one.
joderjo402 AT gmail DOT com
I'd love to be entered to win this one.
mlawson17 at hotmail dot com
Fantastic review guys – thank you! I enjoyed Scandal, but not as much as everyone else. Saying that, the more I think back on the book the more I feel like I missed something. I think I need to read it again
Saying that, please don't include me in the competition. I need to re-read Scanadal (via the library 
this is my fave genre and a new author for me. would love to win.
I have not read either of these titles but they both look great
Hi Everyone!
Thanks for all your comments and joining in.
Sorry I've been a little bit absent, long work day and a sick mother. Anyway, welcome!!
@Jennifer: glad to see you back – good luck!!
@Mariska: another familiar name – welcome!!
@ Hey Host: Hi there great to have you – hope all is well.
Good Luck!
@Hi there EH!! Thanks so much!! Glad you enjoyed, we all had a good time.
)
@ Hey Ms.M.: Either of these books are good historical romances.
Thanks for joining in!! good luck!
@Hi Patti! Consider yourself entered!! Welcome..
@Hey Cecile!! Welcome so delighted you joined in! Good Luck!!
@tetewa: Welcome Back and good luck!!
@Hey ScorpioM: Welcome and good luck!!
@Hi jeanette8042: Welcome to the gang and good luck!!
@Hi B! So happy you joined in! Good Luck..
@Hi there Pattepoilue! So happy to see you here – Good luck to you!
@ Hi EvaS: Great to see you here again my friend! Good Luck!
@ Hi Raz! Welcome Back and good luck!!;)
@Hey Dottie, thanks for joining in my friend!! Good luck..
@Hi flchen1! Welcome again, glad to see you here! Good Luck!!
@Hi Estella! Welcome back and best of luck to you!
@Hey CherieJ: Welcome to the contest and good luck Thanks!!
@ Hi Virginia: Welcome! So delighted you joined in especially since Indiscreet is on your wish list!
@Hi BarbaraE: Welcome to the party – good luck!!
@Hi limecello! Best of luck!!
@He in the hammock blog: I love your blog name!! Welcome and best of luck to you!!
@ Hi joder: Welcome back!! Good Luck!!
@Hi Kat's Blog! So nice to see another new name! Good luck to you!
@Hi Becky4444: Welcome and good luck!!
Thanks again everyone, I'll announce he winner on Saturday morning!
Hey Carolyn! Thanks so much again for joining in, happy you are pleased with the post!
Best
L
Hi Christine:
(((Hugs))) Thank you for all your support and getting the round robin going!! Awesome post at your spot!
Best
L
Hi Renee!
Thank you for all your support and great contribution! I have "My Wicked Enemy" here in the stacks and will get to it!! (Determined too!)
Great post at your spot!!
Best
L
Thanks Chris!
You are always so supportive!
Best
L
Hi SonomaLass:
Thank you for your nice comment! I enjoyed that aspect of Sabine's characterization as well. As I mentioned in the discussion, I think one of Ms. Jewel's strength's is introspective thoughts and her characters POV flow so smoothly.
Interesting academic speciality!!
Best
L
Count me in, please!
I haven't read any of Carolyn's historicals, but I have read one of her paranormal novels. Thanks for another giveaway, Lea.
Great review. Indiscreet look great. Please count me in.
lizzi0915 at aol dot com
I've read Scandal and loved it!!! Would love the chance to win Indiscreet. Carolyn is a great author!!!
I enjoyed the interview and the blurb. The book covers are beautiful.
Thanks,
Tracey D
Awesome contest!!!:)
emilyb3342@bellsouth.net
I haven't read either of these books and they both sound extremelyinteresting and something I would like. I love the cover as well. Please count me in!! Thanks!
I've never read anything by this author, but this book sounds interesting. Count me in!
I love the covers of both books, they are beautiful. Would love to have a copy of the book. Please enter me. Thanks!
ayancey(at)dishmail(dot)net
*Waving* At all the new comers!!
Thanks for joining in and good luck… Late day at work again today, but I'll stop by again tomorrow to say hi to every one.
There are so many books coming out, that it's good to come to a place like this to get some pointers to the best books I need to check out.
Carolyn's books sound great. I love the covers. Thank you for the giveaway.
Both books sounds great. Count me in, please. Thanks.
@Hey there Roxy! Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hi Jane: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hey There Bethie: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hey There MitziH: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hi booklover0226: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hey there Emily Brown: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hi Lorelei: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hi Spav: Welcome back and good luck!!
@Hi Anita: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hi SueA: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hi Crystal GB: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
@Hey LSUReader: Welcome and good luck in the contest!
TGIF Tomorrow everyone!!
Best
L
Have heard wonderful things about Carolyn Jewel's writing. Tossing my name in the hat.
@Hi there Lil!
Welcome and Good Luck
The contest is closed everyone! Thanks for entering.
Winners will be announced soon.