NetGalley Review: The Poetics of Passion by Delphine Ross

The Poetics of Passion by Delphine Ross

Rating: ✩✩✩✩✩

This book had a fun premise, great chemistry and a fun collection of supporting characters. However, the overall effect did not come together well for me.

The good stuff:

• The chemistry was really good, the slow burn carried and you are rooting for this couple.
• Great world building, the supporting cast was expansive (lots of room for further books).
• It was an enjoyable read hitting many of the high points that romance readers like about historicals-so many favorite tropes.

The not as good stuff:

• The supporting cast is very archetypical-The mother in particular having no distinct personality outside of parroting whatever moves the plot along.
• Lots of plot happens, while nothing happens. So may letters, near escapes and scandalous headlines all while two purportedly intelligent protagonists don't connect any dots.
• The ending was rushed and (view spoiler)

While I didn't dislike this one, it just felt very much like a first draft of a first book, not a final draft that was ready to go out the door. Granted, I have written exactly zero books, so take this for what it is worth. I would, however, like to read more in the series because it feels like there is something really good swirling around in there and I bet Ross has a lot of great writing ahead.

Published on 25 July 2023 by Muse Publications

Book # 26 of 2023