Price of Privilege (Price of Privilege, Book 3) by Jessica Dotta

Book Description:

Having finally discovered the truth of her birthright, Julia Elliston is determined to outwit Chance Macy at his own game. Holding a secret he’d kill to keep, however, is proving more difficult than she imagined.

Just when Julia thinks she’s managed to untangle herself from Macy’s clutches, he changes tactics with a risky ploy. As the scandal of the century breaks loose, drawing rooms all over London whisper what so far newspapers have not dared to print: Macy’s lost bride is none other than Lord Pierson’s daughter—and one of the most controversial cases of marital law ever seen comes before Victorian courts.

Though Julia knows Macy’s version of events is another masterful manipulation, public opinion is swaying in his favor. Caught in a web of deceit and lies, armed only with a fledgling faith, Julia must face her fiercest trial yet.

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An exceedingly, exceptional series! Dotta has garnered a big fan in me. The writing is sublime and will hold you completely enthralled. I found myself so completely engrossed with in its pages, that it was as if I was part of the story. Every word, decision, hurt,  & danger pressed upon you. There were a few moments I found humorous,  there were as well, moments that had tears pouring forth from my eyes.

Initially, I wasn't sure at the beginning of Book 3 if I was going to like the direction the novel was heading; still it held me captive. Dotta, surpassed my expectations and left me with the profound feeling that I not only read a great novel but one that moves you and speaks to you as well.

The characters, the story, the intrigue are so well penned, I find myself a bit undone that it is all over! I am sad to say farewell, and I feel confident that this is not only a story I will recommend to others, but one that I will pickup to read again. Bravo!

Mark of Distinction (Price of Privilege, Book 2) by Jessica Dotta

Book Discription:

London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself—but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal—substantiated or not—can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.

Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.

Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate—but outwitting one’s foe rarely goes according to plan.

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Dotta continues to keep readers on the edge of their seats and glued to the pages! Book 2 in the Price of Privilege series, is another brilliantly written novel. The setting, characters, mystery and intrigue are exquisitely penned and have left this reader eagerly anticipating the conclusion in Book 3. 

I do have to add my one complaint ... While I was thrilled with 99% of the book, the ending was not where I hoped the story was going. That said, I am still eager for Book 3! Who knows what will come forth out of it! 

Born of Persuasion (Price of Privilege, Book 1) by Jessica Dotta

Book Description:

The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston’s position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.

With two months to devise a better plan, Julia’s first choice to marry her childhood sweetheart is denied. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. However, treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother’s mysterious past. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own. But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.

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Wow, Dotta's debut novel, and the first book in her series, Price of Privilege, is a wonderful, fascinating piece of literature! This Gothic romance, will bring to mind novels by Austen and Bronte. Truly a work of art.

Initially, it took me a little bit to get sucked into the story. It was interesting but not gripping yet. However, by the time Julia finds herself at Mr. Macy's estate, Eastbourne, you will find the intrigue and wonder so great that you are completely absorbed into the tale and hard put to set it down! Even, after finishing it late last night, this story has continued to play upon my mind, and I find myself very eager to pick up Book 2 and delve in.

Born of Persuasion, is told from Julia's perspective, which helps add to the suspense of the story. Just as Julia must wonder at everyone else's motives, so must you. Who can you trust, what is true, what should she do?! On and on, it leaves you held fast to the story and on edge as you suspect things and people are not all that they seem.

So for those looking for a novel that is not predictable but instead leads you through all the mazes, with just enough tidbits to help you along and keep you in suspense, this novel is for you. It abounds with great writing, depth of character, mystery, intrigue and Gothic romance. It engages the mind and thrills.

Sure, there will be many occasions that you wish you could impress upon Julia to err on the side of caution, and long to shake her; but in truth is that not how we often look back at our own youthful choices and wish we had known then what we know now.

Picking up this novel is a journey, Book 1 is just the introduction and a meaty one at that; but it is absolutely worth the time!