If you’re a fan of steamy romance novels, “Scandalous” by Karen Robards is a must-read. This book is the first installment in the Banning Sisters series and promises a captivating tale of love, secrets, and scandal.
Follow the story of the three Banning sisters, each navigating their own challenges and passions. Be swept away by the lush historical setting and the passionate romance that develops between the main characters.
Experience the intrigue and drama that unfolds in this page-turner as Karen Robards weaves a tantalizing tale you won’t want to put down.
Key Takeaways:
- “Scandalous” is the first book in the Banning Sisters series by Karen Robards.
- The novel is a steamy romance filled with secrets and scandal set in a historical backdrop.
- Follow the journey of the Banning sisters as they navigate love and challenges.
- Karen Robards’ writing style will keep you engrossed from start to finish.
- If you enjoy “Scandalous,” explore other books by Karen Robards for more captivating romance stories.
About the Author
Karen Robards is a New York Times bestselling author known for her thrilling and romantic novels. With over 50 books to her name, she has made a significant impact on the world of romance fiction. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Karen attended college at the University of Kentucky and later worked as a legal secretary before pursuing her passion for writing.
Her first book, “Island Flame,” was published in 1981, and since then, she has continued to captivate readers with her unique blend of adventure, suspense, and romance. Karen’s writing has earned her numerous awards and accolades, including the Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award and the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Award.
Aside from the Banning Sisters series, Karen has written several other popular romance series, including the Dr. Charlotte Stone series and The Charlotte Stone prequel series. Karen’s books have been translated into more than 20 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.
Awards and Accolades
| Year | Award | Book/series |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | RT Career Achievement Award | — |
| 2006 | RITA Award | The Beachcomber |
| 2009 | RITA Award | The Last Kiss Goodbye |
| 2014 | RITA Award | Shiver |
Plot Summary
Scandalous by Karen Robards is a thrilling romance novel set in London in the late 1800s. The story follows the Banning sisters, Jade, Pearl, and Amber, as they navigate through love, betrayal, and scandal.
Jade is engaged to a wealthy and respected man, but her heart belongs to her father’s protege, Harlan. They try to resist their feelings for each other, but their passion becomes too strong to ignore. Meanwhile, Jade’s younger sister, Pearl, falls for a charming but dangerous man, Rider, who has a hidden agenda. Amber, the youngest Banning sister, struggles with her role in the family and is drawn to a man who seems to understand her, but he may not be who he appears to be.
The novel is full of twists and turns as the sisters face various challenges and unexpected revelations. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles and find true love, or will their scandalous secrets tear them apart? Read Scandalous to find out!
Setting
Step into the world of “Scandalous” and immerse yourself in its stunning setting. Karen Robards masterfully weaves together elements of history and mystery to create a rich and atmospheric backdrop for her captivating romance novel.
The story takes place in 19th-century England, transporting readers to a bygone era of lavish estates and glittering high society. From the glittering ballrooms of London to the lush countryside of Sussex, Robards paints a vivid picture of a world in flux, as the aristocracy grapples with the changing tides of industry and modernization.
But the setting of “Scandalous” is more than just a static backdrop. It is alive with detail and nuance, from the sumptuous fashions of the era to the intricate social rules and customs that governed every interaction. Robards brings this world to life with impressive attention to detail, making readers feel as though they are truly a part of this lavish, scandalous society.
But while the setting of “Scandalous” may seem glamorous on the surface, it is also rife with danger and intrigue. From hidden scandals to long-buried secrets, the world of the Banning sisters is one of surprising twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats chapter after chapter.
Overall, the setting of “Scandalous” is a rich and immersive world that expertly sets the stage for the romance and drama that unfolds throughout the novel.
Themes and Motifs
As with many novels in the romance genre, “Scandalous” explores several overarching themes and motifs that resonate with readers. At its heart, the book is a tale of love, passion, and desire, as the main characters navigate their emotions and desires.
One prevalent theme is that of family loyalty and sacrifice, as the Banning sisters must weigh their own desires against the expectations and obligations placed upon them by their family. This struggle for independence and agency is a common motif in romance novels, as characters must balance their own desires with the greater good of their family or society.
Another powerful theme is that of redemption, as both the main characters grapple with past mistakes and regret. This theme ties into the larger idea of forgiveness and second chances, as characters strive to overcome their past and move forward with hope for the future.
Overall, the themes and motifs in “Scandalous” are reflective of the genre as a whole, with a focus on passion, emotion, and the complexities of human desire.
Character Analysis
In “Scandalous,” Karen Robards skillfully renders complex and multidimensional characters that keep readers engaged throughout the novel. Let’s take a closer look at the main characters and their roles in the story:
| Character | Personality Traits | Motivations | Growth and Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth Banning | Determined, independent, passionate | To find her sister, clear her father’s name, and seek redemption for her past mistakes | Elizabeth learns to trust others and open herself up to love, ultimately finding happiness and resolution |
| Rafe Fletcher | Charming, cunning, secretive | To protect his own interests and seek revenge for past wrongs | Rafe learns to open himself up emotionally and make sacrifices for those he loves, ultimately redeeming himself and finding love with Elizabeth |
| Catherine Banning | Devious, manipulative, selfish | To keep her secrets hidden and protect her own interests | Catherine’s actions lead to her downfall, as she ultimately faces the consequences of her misdeeds |
Through her skillful characterization, Robards creates a vivid and immersive story that keeps readers engrossed from start to finish.
Writing Style
Karen Robards’ writing style is one of the main strengths of “Scandalous.” Her prose is elegant and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the story’s setting and characters. The pacing is well-crafted, with an excellent balance of action, dialogue, and introspection to keep the reader engaged.
One of the most notable aspects of Robards’ writing is her masterful use of narrative techniques. She employs various literary devices, such as foreshadowing and flashbacks, to create intrigue and suspense. The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the complex and often tense relationships between the characters.
Overall, Robards’ writing style is a perfect match for the scandalous and passionate romance depicted in “Scandalous.” It is rich, vivid, and emotionally resonant, making for an unforgettable reading experience.
Reception and Impact
Since its publication, “Scandalous” by Karen Robards has garnered widespread praise and acclaim from critics and readers alike. The book has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Goodreads, with many reviewers lauding the compelling characters, intricate plotting, and steamy romance that Robards expertly weaves together.
The book’s success is evident in the many awards and nominations it has received. “Scandalous” was a 2002 RITA award finalist in the Best Long Historical Romance category, a testament to its quality craft and engaging storyline.
Robards’ impact on the romance genre cannot be overstated. Her fans eagerly anticipate each new release, and “Scandalous” remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate new readers to this day. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Robards’ talent as a writer and her ability to craft timeless stories that resonate with readers.
Similar Books by Karen Robards
If you’re looking for more enthralling tales by Karen Robards, check out these other books that share similar themes and writing styles:
| Title | Genre | Setting |
|---|---|---|
| The Last Kiss Goodbye | Romantic Suspense | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Bait | Thriller | Charleston, South Carolina |
| The Midnight Hour | Romantic Suspense | Virginia Beach, Virginia |
Each of these books showcases Karen Robards’ signature mix of romance, mystery, and adrenaline-pumping action that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Don’t miss out on these captivating stories that are sure to leave you spellbound.
Conclusion
Overall, “Scandalous” by Karen Robards is a captivating novel that seamlessly blends romance and intrigue. The book’s gripping plot summary showcases the main characters, their relationships, and the central conflicts that drive the story. Karen Robards’ writing style is impeccable, with well-crafted prose, pacing, and narrative techniques that enhance the reading experience.
Reader and critic reviews of “Scandalous” have been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the book’s impact within the romance genre. Karen Robards has established herself as a talented author with a string of notable works to her name. If you’re a fan of “Scandalous,” you may want to explore other books by Karen Robards that share similar themes, settings, and writing styles.
Overall, “Scandalous” promises to be an exhilarating reading experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a die-hard romance fan or someone who enjoys a good mystery, this book is sure to captivate and entertain in equal measure.
