Book Review: The Harlow Hoyden: A Regency Romance
Review
If you loved “The Secret History of the Pink Carnation,” you’ll enjoy “The Harlow Hoyden.” This book is a fun, light-hearted read that doesn’t aim for realism but rather offers a romantic adventure to entertain you.
The story centers around Emma, known as the Harlow Hoyden by society, who will go to great lengths to stop her sister from marrying the obnoxious Sir Windbourne, or “Sir Windbag,” as she calls him. The novel kicks off with Emma stealing a flower to lure her sister Lavinia away from her fiancé. Lavinia loves horticulture, a passion her misogynistic fiancé wants her to abandon once they’re married. While Emma’s plan is meant to tempt her sister, she gets caught by the Duke of Trent. This leads to a scandalous plot where Emma ropes the Duke into helping her seduce her sister away from Sir Windbag. Though reluctant at first, the Duke agrees to Emma’s schemes to save her from ruining her reputation with someone else. However, in the process, he finds himself falling for the spirited Emma.
As a twin, I was intrigued to see the book feature identical twins, Emma and Lavinia, without falling into the stereotypical depictions you often see in media. Emma is the wild twin, and Lavinia is sensible, but their relationship and loyalty are the highlights of this Regency romance. Emma’s outrageous schemes are amusing, but Lavinia’s intelligence and bravery make her equally fascinating. Even though many will hope for Emma to end up with the Duke, I found myself wishing for a love story between the Duke and Lavinia. Nonetheless, the friendship between the Duke and Lavinia, marked by candid conversations, is a delightful aspect of the novel.
The book’s characterization of both sisters is compelling. Despite being a Regency romance, the ambitions of both sisters are well portrayed without feeling out of place for the era. Some moments did feel off, especially regarding Emma’s actions and the Duke’s propriety, but these are minor issues given the novel’s lighthearted nature.
While entertaining, the book isn’t without flaws. Some dialogue felt unnatural, and some scenes between the Duke and Emma seemed more focused on lust than love. If you’re looking for a clean Regency romance, this might not be the best choice. Despite this, the overall humor and the Napoleonic intrigue make it worth the read.
Adaptation Recommendation
This book would be perfect as a TV series due to its episodic nature. Watching Emma’s schemes unfold and her romantic entanglements with the Duke week by week would be engaging. Plus, a series would allow more development of Lavinia’s story, which I would love to see.
Overall Rating
“I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
Romance Rating
“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”
Page Count: 288 pages
Publisher: Potatoworks Press (February 4, 2014)
Genre: Regency Romance
Buy Here: [Amazon](http://www.amazon.com/)
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