| Title | : | Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall (The Eyre Hall Trilogy, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 276 |
| Publication | : | First published August 28, 2015 |
Relive the mystery and magic of Jane Eyre. Action and adventure will unfold in an absorbing narrative, which will move the action from the Yorkshire countryside, to Victorian London, and across the Atlantic Ocean to Colonial Jamaica.
Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall (The Eyre Hall Trilogy, #2) Reviews
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When I finish reading All Hallows at Eyre Hall I was so mad with Michael because he broke all his promises to Jane. But I was so happy when I start it reading Twelfth Nights at Eyre Hall and found that he was part of the story. Once again I fell in love with this book. I'm not going to lie it took me a few days to finish it. But it's just that I was so worried about Jane and Michael that I was afraid to read bad news (LOL) silly me!!!
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ARC kindly provided by Luccia Gray in exchange for an honest review.
Review‘Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall’ that was as utterly captivating and awesome as 'All Hallows at Eyre Hall', which is the first novel in 'The Eyre Hall Trilogy'. I must also mention that even though this is the second novel in the series, it can also be read as a standalone. The author does give you information about the characters and previous events if you choose to do so, but I would strongly recommend reading the first novel beforehand to get the backstory that I believe is vital to reading this one. There are also many key scenes and characters who return in this novel from the previous.
This novel takes place roughly one year after the first and does not restrict itself to one setting. It takes the reader from the Yorkshire countryside of England to Victorian London, and across the Atlantic Ocean to Colonial Jamaica. I found this variety of settings beautiful and flavourful as they gave the reader a change of scenery – like a breath of fresh air – whilst preserving the strong emotional atmosphere that the author silently weaves around her audience to ensure our entrapment into her gorgeous narrative world.
There has been a change to the way that Luccia Gray writes: instead of the long chapters and a multitude of various character perspectives, she now write with a chapter dedicated to a specific character whose voice is the one we read. The writing has still remained in first person narration, nevertheless. I really enjoyed this – just like in the first novel – and hope that she continues to do so in her third and following novel, 'Midsummer at Eyre Hall' which will be released later in 2016.
The author has also graciously responded to my review of her previous novel about my confusion with Jane Eyre's appearance and why exactly Jane is now being referred to as beautiful and pretty by everyone instead of plain and mouse-like; why Jane now has green eyes and auburn hair, rosy cheeks with pretty lips. Since it has been roughly under a year since I've last read 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, I've forgotten the exact specifics of her appearance. I still remember her to have brown hair and eyes although this is incorrect as she has green eyes, even though Edward Rochester says that she has hazel eyes and hair with rosy cheeks and pink lips. The reason that Jane Eyre of Luccia Gray has a more beautiful appearance is the result of her having grown up and matured from her young, plain self. She was plain as a nineteen-year-old due to her having no money as an orphan and no caregivers who could provide her with good clothing, makeup, and jewelry. She was unembellished and thus plain. Now, twenty-four years later, she has gained money and status and is now able to wear better clothes, makeup, and jewelry. Thus, her appeal to other men and women has been greatly enhanced. She is now a woman and lady in her own right. I find this very likable and greatly enjoyed reading Jane's new appearance. She seemed a more potent and virile character. (Not that she never was in the original 'Jane Eyre' but we must all admit that readers enjoy reading about attractive characters more than they do about ugly or unappealing ones.)
I must also warn you that the sexual ideas discussed in this novel may be unappealing to some readers. There is nothing graphic or explicit but sex is mentioned. Plus the way women who were poor or worked as servants were treated by their lords or masters is really accentuated in 'Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall', much like in 'All Hallows at Eyre Hall'. Mason is usually the instigator of such actions. He would often demand that Mrs. Leah, who is the housekeeper, send girls or house maids up to his rooms at night to 'entertain' him. Often more than one would be sent up. This really shocked me and made me dislike Mason EXTREMELY but it really brought to light how different the 1800s were compared to now, and how unfavorable the conditions were often for unmarried and poor, working women.
In my opinion, this novel is also a lot lighter and easier to read than the first. The text flows more surely and it is clear that the author is more experienced with her writing than in her debut novel 'All Hallows at Eyre Hall'. The story and plot were impeccably thought out. It was strong and steady but multiple little subplots were also interweaved into the one giant arc story to create a beautiful piece of fiction: truly a masterpiece.
The characters were all complex. Each and everyone had their own background, their own past, history, their mannerisms, characteristics, and personalities. Each was distinguishable and distinct from the other: something, not all authors are able to do. Many, in fact, create so many like characters that in the end, they all blend together and lose variety and difference. All characters were also dynamic and really, very realistic.
The ending was perhaps my most favourite bit. It was just right for this novel. It was slightly sad but mostly happy. I will not say that it was bittersweet – because it was not – but I will hint at the fact that it is almost a happily ever after. This novel seemed more an adventure than a fairytale and I have to say that I am most glad that I have endeavoured to pick it up and read it. (Although, to be honest, it was less of an endeavour and more of a pleasure!)
There were no grammatical or spelling mistakes. Once again the prose was just outstanding and the writing was superb. There were a few typos but I found them easy to ignore.
Congratulations to Luccia Gray on publishing what I can truthfully say is a FIVE STAR! I can't wait to read 'Midsummer at Eyre Hall'!
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR! -
Told in the same style as Charlotte Bronte, this second book in the Eyre Hall Trilogy moves us on from Edward Rochester's death and Jane's forced marriage to Richard Mason. Written from multi first person points of view, it's a great opportunity to get inside the characters' heads and see the story unravel from different perspectives.
As I had not read the first book in the series I found the character sketches at the beginning of the book really helpful. The plot requires a large number of characters to interact with each other at the same time. Therefore knowing exactly who was who made the whole read much easier.
As the story begins, Jane Eyre is recovering from a long term illness brought about by a miscarriage. She has also been affected by her valet Michael Kirkpatrick's departure to join the Royal Navy. Previously they had been lovers but when he heard of her decision to marry Richard Mason he left. Jane keeps to her room, where Nell the daughter of Eyre Hall's dressmaker reads to her. However for most of the time Jane only half listens and prefers to gaze out of the window, her thoughts elsewhere.
Michael, now a Lieutenant, unexpectedly returns declaring he is still in love with Jane and bringing her out of her melancholy. Miscarrying Michael's baby has brought back thoughts that she may have been lied to about the death of the daughter she gave birth to when she was married to Rochester. Now to prove his love for her, Michael promises to investigate the possibility that her daughter still be alive somewhere in London. Days later, returning from capital with interesting news he discovers Richard Mason has been found dead in bed.
There's plenty to keep the reader turning pages - the discovery of the secret Edward Rochester took with him to the grave and the real cause of Richard Mason's death to name but two. The book's finale deals with a kidnap in the Caribbean and a rescue mission. As the story eventually reaches a conclusion there are still loose ends and unanswered questions; something which made me look forward to reading book 3!
I would like to thank Brook Cottage Books for a complimentary copy of Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall in exchange for an honest review. -
I had the privilege of reading book two in, Luccia Gray's, Erye Hall Trilogy. I picked up where All Hallows at Eyre Hall left off easily. I was able to continue with the story line as if I had just read the first book. As I found with her first book, this was an incredible read. She has a great gift at story telling and it's as if you are right in the story because you can see in your mind the characters, the scenery, and more. She has really captured Charlotte Bronte's style and characters and has done a trilogy worthy of a future classic. I am a huge Jane Erye fan so I do feel Luccia Gray did an outstanding job with this trilogy about Jane Eyre's future.
The story picks up where the first book ends. Immediately it grabs you and pulls you right into the story. You get to experience the story through out the book from each character themselves. The story follows Jane, her family, friends and a few others as it opens up even further into their future. Their loves, loss, pain. There is even a pirate in this one that tries to extort a ransom from Jane, but you'll have to read the book to find out why and for who because I can't possibly give away all the goodies in a review. There is so much packed into 276 pages; secrets, lies, fights, love, a sea journey, a pirate, new family additions, some of the past revealed and so, so much more.
Over all this is definitely a must read in my opinion. If you adore classics like I do, I think you will enjoy this trilogy immensely. I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for the third installment of the trilogy due out this year. I'm sure it will also pick the story right up and flow just as book two did. -
My no spoilers review of this exciting sequel
http://lindasbookbag.com/2016/01/11/t...
Although I’m glad I have read Charlotte Bronte’s ‘Jane Eyre’ and Luccia Gray’s ‘All Hallows at Eyre Hall’ because I think they have added layers of appreciation I might otherwise have missed, ‘Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall’ can be enjoyed perfectly well as a stand alone read. There is everything a reader could want in a thoroughly exciting and fast paced plot. Love, murder, mystery, violence, sexual exploitation all feature, but never gratuitously so that there is a compelling reality to the text. ‘Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall’ is a cracking read and I was gripped from the beginning.
Now a wealthy woman in her forties married to vile Mr Mason, Jane has another love, the much younger, and her previous servant, Michael Kirkpatrick. Life is complicated and Luccia Gray weaves the story around these two main characters highly skilfully. I loved the touches that added credibility and depth to the era such as Jane’s friendship with Charles Dickens. Descriptions of both the richness of grand houses and the poverty of London’s back streets create a very visual enjoyment too. Luccia Gray’s writing could be so easily adapted for film or television.
The various first person voices are all totally distinct so that I felt like I was catching up with old friends as I read. I can’t wait for the third book in the trilogy to be published and again, although ‘Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall’ is crafted with a hugely satisfying ending, there is potential for an incredible finale to the trilogy. Brilliant. -
Absolutely loved it!! A great second book in the series and am anxiously awaiting the next book.
This could easily be read as a stand alone novel, although I defiantly recommend reading All Hallows' at Eyre Hall first. It sets the background for this novel as well as providing character development and attachment to the characters.
A beautifully written novel with plenty of suspense, action, betrayal, heartache, love, and joy. The characters are very well developed and the plot doesn't lack at all. I am the first to admit that romance novels are not generally my first choice but this one has me hooked. There is something about Victorian era romance that reads like no other. Mrs. Grey has an unbelievable knack for setting the tone and making you feel as if you know the characters. The amount of suspense, drama, and intrigue in her novels is never ending.
I love a story that makes me feel like I am totally lost in its world. There is nothing like being able to feel like you are there watching from the shadows and this novel definitely fulfills that criteria.
Lovers of the classics will be able to fall in love all over again and those who have not read them will likely be compelled to do so. It really has surpassed all of my expectations.
** I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. -
#2 in "The Eyre Hall" Triology, while, it can be read as a stand alone, I'd suggest reading Book 1 as well, "Eyre Hall".
Written in first person from each character's point of view. From a backdrop of the English countryside, to Victorian England to across the Altantic Ocean to Colonial Jamica and back. Blackmail, suspense, mystery, passion, secrets, many secrets, treachery,tragedy and romance, makes for a page Turner. Some shocking revelations are revealed with some circumstances. A unique, and tragic tale with multiple facets, many cast of characters, who are engaging and intriguing. An exciting, but complicated tale from the beginning to end. A high stakes game, with a high sea adventure, much drama, is involved around Eyre Hall, all its secrets, passion and romance.
Well written in a complicated, compelling and challenging way. Fans of the Eyre Hall mystery, and romance with some suspense will enjoy this Trilogy.
An interesting and intriguing tale. Enjoyable and satisfying!
*Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More -
I was completely taken by the first book in this trilogy (All Hallows at Eyre Hall)—so much so that I immediately uploaded Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall to my Kindle.
Once again Luccia Gray has written a spectacular tale of love, unexpected betrayal, conspiracy, kidnapping, intrigue, shocking secrets and revelations that change life for the people at Eyre Hall in unexpected ways. This book takes you from their Yorkshire countryside to a despairing search in London and then across the Atlantic Ocean and stormy seas to colonial Jamaica and back.
Only desperation (or insanity) would have forced the journey back to Eyre Hall from Jamaica under the circumstances Jane and Michael found themselves in.
At the end of this book you still cannot be certain of what will happen—so many things hang in the balance. Will Michael survive, what fate awaits Jane when she returns home?
I am dismayed that we will not know the answers until the third book in the series is published in 2016!!
Note: While Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall can be read as a stand alone book, a reader will miss out on a greater understanding of the characters if they don't read All Hallows at Eyre Hall first. -
A great second book in the trilogy. After I read the first in the trilogy, I read Jane Eyre, and it gave me better perspective. While this can be read as a standalone, the first book in the trilogy really makes it better - and bonus points if you've read Jane Eyre. This is a charming story and always dangerous for an author to take a well known book and expand on it, but Gray does it masterfully.
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Read my review on my blog -->
http://pagesoverpages.blogspot.co.at/... -
The start of Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall finds Michael at sea and not caring if he lives or dies and Jane miserable and alone at Eyre Hall. She is now married to the odious Mr Mason who drinks too much and sexually exploits the staff during his mercifully infrequent visits to Eyre Hall.
Jane finds solace in the companionship of Nell, daughter of one of the servants. Michael’s sister, Susan, is in trouble and after his heroic deeds at sea he is promoted to lieutenant and sent on leave to see her, which brings him back to Eyre Hall.
I don’t want to say too much about the plot as it will give too much away suffice to say there are relationship dramas, of the type that always seem to fill the lives of the gentry at that time. Mystery and intrigue, when Michael is sent off on a mission for Jane, death, kidnapping and mysterious strangers arriving with ransom demands.
The writing is solid throughout and in keeping with the period in which the story is told and I like the way Gray doesn’t spoon feed her readers. Chapters are told from different characters’ points of view; however, these aren’t signalled but instead revealed by the writing itself.
If you enjoyed the first part of this trilogy this is a great sequel and I’m keen to see how the story will end in the third part. -
4.5 out of 5
Luccia Gray's second novel
Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall is a solid effort that raises the stakes even higher than
All Hallows at Eyre Hall. The impact of Rochesters' secrets continue to influence characters who struggle to rebuild their lives after his death; where the first book was driven by the tension secrets create within the house the plot of this book uses this conflict to drive forwards how characters determine their own futures.
The novel opens with chaotic scenes at sea as Michael Fitzpatrick deals with the fallout of the storm and the expectation he steps up, a theme that follows him throughout. The tumultuous atmosphere continues as Eyre Hall is not as it once was with Jane hidden away in her room from her husband of convenience, Mr Mason, with only Nell, a servant girl, to keep her company. Oblivious to the ongoings below stairs Jane is unhappy and believes she has lost her true love forever as well as grieving for her lost daughter, Helen, twice over.
Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall is a successful mish-mash of Victorian genres which together produce a highly entertaining read and does so with intelligence. For fans of
Wilkie Collins Gray mines the sensation novel genre to provide some emotional twists; one of them is straight from
Jane Eyre I tself while other surprises adhere to how women were viewed during the Victorian era. The novel is also part swashbuckling romance as Michael progresses in the navy, and for
Jane Austen fans there is also a tongue in cheek comparison with
Persuasão and Michael rivals Captain Wentworth for swooning hero. Where I found the novel most successful was in its realism aspects; it did not shy away from how harsh life was for the poor as Gray deals with the sale of children nor did she ignore the sexual abuse within large households. It grounds what may have been otherwise throwaway chick lit by reminding the reader to the darker side of the era that is absent in its literature.
Gray continues use multiple perspectives with skill. This time, the various voices moves the story between locations and highlight disparities in characters' experiences; it is no longer a technique used to show upstairs and downstairs but shows the differences and gulf between one character and another. One key character is driven further apart from his family. Also there is a delightful one off appearance from
Charles Dickens who instructs Jane regarding her novel writing and they both compare personal lives.
Twelfth Night at Eyre Hall is primarily focused on rebuilding the family unit where its predecessor was about what broke it apart. Jane's early orphan childhood informs how she tries to do the right things for all parties concerned particularly Annette, Bertha's daughter, as she is both parents the girl has never had. This is a more modern look at what family means for individuals as Jane takes in altered circumstances but deals with it, all too aware that happiness does not always last.
The romance between Jane and Michael grows deeper for having being forced apart and they reach an understanding of the other's viewpoint. Neither is fully themselves and the earlier withdrawn Jane was devastating to read as the reader knows she can deal with difficult circumstances; that is how protective Gray makes you feel about the couple. Both have a magnetic attraction to one another and the force and depth of their love leaps off the pages. It is a love where they would do anything for each other, including going to the end of the world. However, one interesting aspect I hope Gray will explore further is Michael's dark side and what he is capable of; Jane does seem to find herself attracted to passionate men. -
Luccia Gray stepped up the pace with this second installment of the Eyre Hall series. In this book, we find Jayne, after Edward's death and are met with her abrupt marriage to Mr. Mason. I have to admit that I was a bit disappointed with Jayne for giving in to the sinister Mr. Mason and his blackmailing tactics. Her decision to marry him drove Michael away and I was a bit peeved about that. She's strong woman and I would have loved to see her give Mr. Mason a good dose of his own medicine, but there was a reason why Ms. Gray baited us, I 'spose. The beautiful love story between Jayne and the handsome young Michael Kirkpatrick heats up and each profess their steadfast devotion. Truths to several secrets which were brought out in the first book make for intrigue and surprise in Twelfth Night. All in all this was a great read and I'm now onto book three.
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A continuation of the Jane Eyre story and an interesting concept. Told in the voices of several characters and the only thing i disliked was that it was not always obvious who was talking in each chapter. They all started I did ... or I went.... it did become obvious at some point who that particular I was but it did annoy me.
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What a delight this beauty has been, I loved the Jane Eyre novel so the extra story after it ended has become one of my favorites.This is the second book in the series and by far the best in my opinion but I have yet to read the third which I will do next but this book was just in plain words,GREATNESS,five star read
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I read this entire series & loved every line.
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review to follow
