What I’ve Been Reading

 So because of the decorating and writing, I’ve actually had very little time to do any reading. But I did manage to sneak in a quick novella – Object of His Desire by Ava March.

Yep I’m keeping with the historical theme of my other recent reads, this is a sweetly erotic m/m novella and I’ll be checking out more of Ava March’s stories. Blurb is below:-

“He thinks he’s just a wallflower. Little does he know he’s the guest of honor…

It’s the last night of a week-long house party in remote northern England. Every sensual delight imaginable is right at Henry Shaw’s fingertips. Yet all he wants is to be with his host, the deliciously handsome and enigmatic Arsen Grey. Henry’s certain it’s love, not mere infatuation. He’s also sure it’s hopeless. After all, the party’s purpose is to find Arsen a new mistress.

Arsen longs to leave the glittering, jaded world of the ton behind and find someone who will value him for himself, not his wealth and his title. He suspects that someone could be the strapping country gentleman he’s caught staring at him. Henry is loyal and dependable, nothing like his other acquaintances. Arsen sets a plan into motion, one designed to get Henry into his bed. One that includes a test of devotion.

Arsen never expected that in winning Henry, he risks losing his heart.”

What I’m Reading

Yay! Finally finished Pride and Prejudice and it will definitely be staying on my keeper shelf. I can see this as a book I will re-read to cheer me up when I’m feeling down. Am now indulging myself with watching the television series.

I also finished the beta read on the novel. And am about to start another beta read.

On the reading for enjoyment front. I’m thinking up next will probably be something m/m.

What I’m Reading

Still Pride and Prejudice but I am a lot farther through it now, about halfway. Charlotte has married Mr. Collins. (So I guess he doesn’t end up with Mary huh?) I’ve also watched the first episode of the P&P series which featured Colin Firth as Mr.Darcy. Even though I’d never watched it, I’d seen that many trailers that those actors were pretty much fixed in my head as the characters anyway.

Although I initially thought I’d struggle with the story, even though I’m only half way through I can completely understand why for some people this is their ultimate comfort read. Jane Austen’s use of language is so precise there is never any doubt to her meaning, and I very much appreciate how cleverly it is written.

One of the reasons it’s taking me so long to get through P&P is that I’m currently beta reading. Now I don’t know how other people beta read but I write lots and lots of notes. Though this can depend on what the writer is looking for, sometimes it’s just a general overview, other times it’s a line edit. I always feel privileged when someone asks me to betaread, apart from anything else it’s helped me a lot as a writer to see how other authors go about developing their stories and ideas. So if ever you have the opportunity and have the time and commitment I heartily recommend beta reading.

What I’m Reading

I’ve been re-reading the Adrien English series by Josh Lanyon over the past couple of weeks. It features one of my favourite m/m couples Jake and Adrien. And if I had to chose a favourite book it would probably be A Dangerous Thing because it has more Jake and Adrien. Lol. Rereading the series whilst I wait to get my hands on his newest book – The Ghost Wore Yellow Socks.

Still plugging away with Pride & Prejudice though. Currently up to p52. Jane has recovered from her illness and gone home and the Bennets have received a visit from their cousin Mr. Collins. Whom I suspect would be a perfect match for Mary Bennet.

What I’m Reading

So I’ve made a start on Pride and Prejudice.

Currently at page 30 (remember I said I was a slow reader), and despite my misgivings before I started reading I’m quite enjoying it. It’s not heavy going which was a pleasant surprise and a lot of it is very witty and cleverly written. I’m particularly enjoying the conversations between Mr and Mrs Bennet which are laced with double meanings and little digs.

It’s interesting to note that there seems to be a lot of ‘telling’, quite frowned upon in modern writing where we are very much concerned with almost pulling the reader into the action and story of the book. Also the cast seems to increase every couple of pages, usually with a cast this large I’d expect there to be a list at the front of the book detailing how everyone relates to everyone else.

Even from the few pages I’ve read so far I can appreciate why for a lot of people this is their ultimate comfort read. I think I definitely lucked out on picking this one.

A couple of weekends ago there was a Pride & Prejudice (Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy) marathon on the television which I’ve recorded. I don’t want to watch it until after I’ve read the book, but it seemed too fortuitous not to take the opportunity. Maybe I will finally get to understand the attraction of a man going swimming with a shirt on. lol

Favourite line so far comes from Elizabeth to Mr. Darcy when he comments that he only knows six accomplished women and then proceeds to list the variety of skills and talents said accomplished woman should possess.

“I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any.“