I read Lucy Parker’s Pretty Face because it was recommended by emmalita and Mrs. Julien and I like reading good romances, so I tried this one. It tells the story of Lily Lamprey, a 20 something who just landed her first big play, a production called 1553 in which all the major roles are women and I would watch the heck out of and enjoy. (Someone should make this play, seriously) I disagree with Luc’s assessment that Elizabeth was a pawn at this point in the play; Elizabeth I was a born schemer in the best way. Luc Savage is the director and owner of the theatre and takes a chance on casting on her despite her last role being on a soap and her voice sounding like a breathy Marilyn Monroe impersonation. He is 40, and I liked the idea of a romance novel where the guy isn’t a 20 something too.
The age difference between the two characters didn’t bother me at all. I guess it could have because he’s in a position of authority over her by being her director. He fights the relationship for a while but it seems inevitable and right when they get together. The conflict that separates them before they end up getting together seems realistic and not forced. I liked the conflict and the coming back together of the two characters better in this book than in Act Like It. I found myself rolling my eyes a lot during the crumbling theatre scenes and Richard’s ordeal (I get it, he’s a good guy, you don’t need to hit me over the head with a hammer.)
Can we talk for a moment about the very athletic people in contemporary romance novels? Everyone ankles are always up behind their heads. No one gets an achy back or wrists. I guess they are probably pretty fit people. I liked this one; the side characters and family members are well written and enjoyable, the ex of the hero isn’t a terrible shrew (Hooray!) and the best friend is supportive and caring without being wacky. I look forward to Lucy Parker’s next book. I’m sure it will make me smile.