Veena’s review of Always A Stranger by Amara Royce
Historical Fiction published by Kensington Books 15 May 14
From the opening chapter as Lord Skyler Ridgemont is hooked by the exquisite Japanese dancer and her language of fans, I was equally hooked and reeled in with the unfolding story. A word of caution: this is a real-life romance between two characters who belong to different cultures and different socioeconomic levels and the obstacles they face.
Hana is old before her time and has learned to show a lot of different faces to the world. Of Japanese and English descent, her mixed heritage has brought her nothing but grief, whether she’s is in conservative Victorian England or in the equally discriminating Japanese culture. Orphaned and left prey to an indiscriminate guardian, she’s learned to survive and now prepares to sacrifice her very soul to keep those near and dear to her heart safe and secure.
Skyler, newly minted earl at the death of his father and older brother, never expected to inherit the title. Trying to do his best to live up to family expectations, he takes his role of Royal Commissioner to the Great Exhibition very seriously. The last thing he expects is for a small, delicate Japanese flower to derail his plans and test both his resolve as well as his convictions. I am glad to report that he rises above his challenges beautifully.
The author takes on the very serious plight of unprotected foreign women and how they can be abused by unscrupulous persons. As Skyler seeks to find the real Hana, the readers are exposed to the plight of the ladies of the Jade Garden. We suffer with them through their stories of courage and survival and cheer when they rise for the love of Hana in recognition of the unconditional love and protection that she has given them.
Skyler’s courage, as he bucks convention to stand for his principles, regardless of the price that he might have to pay personally, is admirable. He comes into his own and rises above petty convictions and expectations, even to standing up to his mother and cousin. He truly is hero material.
This is my first book by Amara Royce and no means my last, since I am determined to read the full story of Lord Devin and Ms. Beauchamp. I like her style with the impeccable socioeconomic and historical accuracy. Victorian society, with its snobbishness and class consciousness, comes alive for me as does the great exhibition and the crystal palace that still has a home in Greater London.
Grade: B
Summary:
An international affair, London’s Great Exhibition has taken the city by storm. As its newest Royal Commissioner, Lord Skyler Ridgemont must ensure the performers are properly contracted. Among them is the delicate and graceful Hanako Sumaki. Draped in vivid silk robes, Hanako’s exotic Japanese fan dance captivates Skyler–and he longs to learn more about her. . .
But Hanako’s enigmatic employer keeps his exquisite charge very close. The consummate artist, she shows the handsome nobleman many faces, but never her true heart, which holds a desperate secret. When Skyler learns the real reason Hanako has been brought to London, he will risk his entire world to win her trust–and save her from losing both body and soul. It’s a feat that will require the type of courage only love can give. . .
No excerpt available.
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