Book Title : Blind Fortune
Author : Joanna Waugh
Publisher : Cerridwen Press
Genre : Historical Romance
Publication Date : July 2008
ISBN : 9781419917639
Pages : 322
Series : N/A
Category : Sensual
Type : E-book

Reviewer : LK Hunsaker

4.5 Wings

Lady Fortuna Morley has determined not to allow her young cousin to fall prey to a Marquess with a villainous reputation with women. Stories of Charles Lowden’s exploits paint him as cold-hearted, and Fortuna experiences this first hand when he makes a callous remark about her blindness at their first meeting. From that point forward, she declares herself his enemy and tells him she won’t allow the marriage. As he shows her one kindness after another, however, despite his attempt to shut her out of his heart, Lowden changes in her view. The story is further complicated by her family obligations and her view of herself as not marriage material because of her blindness. Her shell cracks slowly with growing attention from the Marquess and she finds herself trying to keep it from shattering.

Joanna Waugh spins a glorious historical tale of love and passion in Blind Fortune, her debut novel. From the beginning, the scene is painted before our eyes so well we nearly hear the music as it plays and feel the night air on the balcony. Fortuna and Charles are vivid characters, full and likeable and complex, with interesting secondary characters accenting the piece. The piano on the cover is symbolic not only of their mutual love of music and an exquisitely romantic scene in the music room, but also of the dance of their hearts while they circle each other.

The reader has no doubt these two will find their HEA but how they will and what they have to battle to get there leads to a charming romp around England, complete with mentions of Shakespeare, Mozart, and other arts of the time and of history. The characters are well-read as the elite classes were in that time and we get to share the pleasure of their knowledge.

At times, the description around the dialogue tends to be overdone and a touch stilted, and there is some repetition that could have been avoided. I was also a bit bothered by the lingering feel of the story unravelling slowly through most of the book and then having the end feel rather rushed, introducing characters in the last scene we hadn’t yet heard of without knowing why they were suddenly there. Those are small things, though, compared to the enjoyment of the book as a whole. I have to think Ms. Waugh spent many, many hours researching the time period and its details since they came together unerringly in order to create such a realistic picture.

Blind Fortune is a beautiful first novel and I very much look forward to this author’s next effort.

I hate packing for a trip, almost as much as I detest traveling. If I just could beam to my destination a la Star Trek, or orb there like a white lighter in Charmed, I’d be a happy camper. But I shouldn’t complain. Not when I’m headed for so much fun at the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention in sunny Orlando.

Last year I attended as a new author for Cerridwen Press. (When I say new, I mean ink-still-wet-on-my-contract new.) I felt a lot like a Regency chit at her first London ball–bewildered and unsure of myself. But the folks of Jasmine Jade Enterprises were welcoming and gracious, particularly my editor’s group of authors. As the newest froggie (that’s what Helen calls us) on the pond, I was made to feel right at home.

In the vernacular of the Regencies I love to read and write, this will be my second “season” at RT. I know the ropes now and look forward to even more fun. Last year, I met a super lady who writes for Ellora’s Cave. Half a dozen authors would get together for drinks in her suite every evening. We discussed our day and talked about writing, the publishing industry and our careers. I learned a lot from that wonderful group of ladies. More important, I made some lasting friendships. I’m flying down a couple days early to spend some time with one new friend before we drive up to Orlando.

Which brings me back to my suitcase. What to pack? Comfortable shoes are a must. A couple of dressy outfits for the parties. (I will not be donning wings for the Faerie Ball!) Bookmarks and business cards for sure, signing pens, and a bunch of those gold oval “autographed copy” stickers.

It’s amazing how far my career has come in just one year, with more wonderful experiences still ahead. RT will be my first major book signing. My debut Regency historical, BLIND FORTUNE, released in trade paperback from Cerridwen Press in February.  (Click here to read a blurb and excerpts)

If you’re in Orlando, stop by my signing table on Saturday, April 25th and introduce yourself. Like Classic Romance Revival, RT is about networking with people who share a passion for romance fiction. I’ll be giving away some custom-made jewelry.  Click here to learn more.

For those unable to attend RT, take a look at my website. On the front page you’ll find a link to my yahoo group. I’d love for you to join!
Be sure to check out my blog and don’t forget to “friend” me on Myspace and Facebook.