Everlasting

Raven Kendrick is propelled into intrigue and danger when she sees a murder at her brother's estate in 1799 London. Her safety now depends on Christopher Sablonoff, a mysterious Russian prince who offers protection but may have secrets of his own. The pair's journey takes them from the shadowy corners of London society to the glittering courts of St. Petersburg. As they navigate political schemes and threats, Raven must decide if she can trust the enigmatic prince with both her life and her heart. Their story moves through a world of nobility, scandal, and shifting alliances in two imperial capitals. The historical backdrop features the tensions between Britain and Russia during the Napoleonic era. This romantic historical thriller explores themes of trust, identity, and the challenge of finding truth in a world of masks and deception. The novel balances personal relationships against broader questions of loyalty and betrayal in times of international conflict.

Readers found this romance novel slower-paced and less compelling than Woodiwiss's other works. Many noted that the story takes a long time to develop and the characters lack the chemistry of her previous books. Readers appreciated: - Historical details and descriptions - The New Orleans setting - Clean romance elements - Satisfying ending Common criticisms: - Too much time spent on secondary plots - Repetitive internal monologues - Lack of tension between leads - Predictable storyline One reader noted "the magic just wasn't there compared to The Flame and the Flower." Another mentioned "too many scenes with peripheral characters that didn't advance the main story." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (120+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.1/5 (40+ ratings) Many longtime Woodiwiss fans recommend starting with her earlier novels instead of this one.

The Wind and the Sea by Marsha Canham This seafaring romance features a strong-willed captive and a naval commander who clash amid ship battles and political intrigue during the War of 1812.

The Wolf and the Dove by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss A Saxon noblewoman and a Norman warrior find love in medieval England during the aftermath of the Norman Conquest.

The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss A case of mistaken identity leads to a tumultuous relationship between a ship captain and an innocent country girl in this historical romance set in London and Charleston.

Sweet Savage Love by Rosemary Rogers A half-American spy and a Mexican aristocrat's daughter navigate danger and passion during the Franco-Mexican War.

Through a Dark Mist by Marsha Canham A nobleman's daughter seeks revenge against a mysterious outlaw in medieval England while uncovering secrets about her own heritage.

🌟 Everlasting was Kathleen E. Woodiwiss's final novel, published posthumously in 2007 after her death from cancer. 🌟 The novel's heroine, Abrielle, reflects Woodiwiss's trademark strong female protagonists who defy the social conventions of their historical settings. 🌟 Kathleen E. Woodiwiss is often credited with creating the modern historical romance genre with her 1972 novel "The Flame and the Flower," paving the way for books like "Everlasting." 🌟 The medieval Scottish setting of "Everlasting" required extensive research into 12th-century customs, clothing, and castle life to maintain historical accuracy. 🌟 The book's publisher, Avon, had such faith in Woodiwiss's work that they continued to release her novels in hardcover format - a rare distinction for romance authors at the time.