Gwen Ellery

**Note: I received an advance reading copy (kindle version) for free from the author; my review is my sincere opinion and is uninfluenced by the aforementioned method of acquisition.**

"Miss Hyde" was a light, fluffy story - not too gothic or scary. I quite liked the way that Marion's Hyde persona manifested; quite clever and original. I thought the character development was a little off; Marion seemed at some points pretty sensible, and then would go and do ridiculous things that didn't make any sense except as plot forwarders. The dialogue in the book wasn't consistently period or modern, which was slightly irritating. However, I think if you're looking for a steampunk-lite historical-ish romance, this would be a decent choice.

Reading this also reminded me that I really can't get into steampunk - I'll keep trying, but something about the genre in general just seems so...twee. I dunno, it's weird. I want to like it, but I'm not quite there.… (mehr)

This is a perfect example of where erotic cat and mouse meets with mystery.

I adored the description of the outside view near the restaurant; it made me feel as if I were really there. I could relate with the agitation of making a reservation far in advance only to have it misplaced or for the location to have no record.

The banter between Adrian and Becky (the main character) was reminiscent of Michael Jackson's video "In the Closet". The looks back and forth. "I want you; I know you want me." Just when I was getting caught up in the chemistry, it turned a bit weird. I understood that it was the part of the plot development but I would have liked for the erotic cat and mouse to have continued a little longer.

In addition, I thought the story played a bit too much off the stereotypes regarding France and America. It may throw a reader off who may not be as familiar with some of the terms and behaviors.

Overall, a nice quick read that kept me entertained until the very last page.… (mehr)