The Courtesan's Secret (The Courtesan Series)

by Claudia Dain

Book Overview

An unrequited love who is in possession of her family's pearls leaves Lady Louisa Kirkland no choice. She must call on Lady Sophia, an ex-courtesan cleverer than all the other ton matrons combined. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0425221369
• ISBN13: 9780425221365
• Release Date: May 2008
• Publisher: Berkley
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.2" x 0.9" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Sophia- A heroine for the ages!

Wow! First, a word of caution: Its not your standard romance- Don't start this book at 9PM - I couldn't put it down! Sophia is such a delectable, complex character, and I also found myself laughing with almost every page! A friend described Claudia Dain's writing as "Geared for the more sophisticated reader" It definitely doesn't fall into the usual pattern of a romance. The plot (best described by others as Machiavellian) takes so many unexpected twists, I was completely involved! The characters are very real and complex,- Sophia is a character for the ages! Ms Dain's world building is so realistic you are no longer reading about it, you are there. (I checked- At least one master's thesis has been based on her world building) And the dialogue! Ms Dain does dialogue better than anyone! You really have to pay close attention to get the full impact of all the nuances, verbal sleight of hand, and double-triple entendre! Man, I had fun reading this!

Sophia continues to delight!

Dain's courtesan novels are a different animal. Fast paced, quick-witted conversation that has you laughing out loud makes up the bulk of the book and makes for fun reading. Sophia, the matchmaking courtesan, is the most intriquing character! We get snippets of information about her past and it is clear we will learn more as the series progresses. I particularly love her 'savage' male relations set loose on the Regency ton. I can't wait to see what happens next with this large, intertwined cast of characters!

Loved IT!

I picked up the first book in the 'Courtesan,' series and immediately wanted more. I couldn't put that one or this one down. At times I even laughed out loud, (I know my dog was looking at me like I was one drugs). The characters are well rounded and not just flat historical romance characters who are insipid. Ok, well, the main character is a little insipid but she grows on you over time. The real reason I love this book is b/c of the courtesan herself. Her motivation, and her humor are delightful. This book is a perfect escape for a rainy day.

engaging Regency romance

In 1800 during her first season, Lady Louisa Kirkland fell in love with the Marquess of Dutton; but two years later he shows no indication of returning her feelings. Desperate to seduce Dutton, Louisa asks retired courtesan Lady Sophia Dalby for help as the woman proved a wizard when she manipulated her daughter's love match (see THE COURTESAN'S DAUGHTER). Somewhat amused that her Machiavellian matchmaking skills are admired; the Countess agrees to help Louisa wins her heart's desire. However, she knows that Dutton would not look twice at Louisa, but Lord Henry Blakesly would look eternally at her though he tries to hide his regard behind a cynical demeanor. Although Louisa sees Henry as a friend, Sophia persuades her to kiss him in order allegedly to make Dutton jealous. Humor abounds in this engaging Regency romance as the former courtesan steals the show from the lead couple. Louisa is a fascinating protagonist as her desperation takes her to her new hero, Sophia whose exploits with Caro and Ash are Regency legend. Henry is also an interesting character who hides his deep feelings for Louisa behind a mask of sarcasm, but Sophia sees through to the heart of the matter. Fans will enjoy the return of the matchmaking courtesan. Harriet Klausner