Title: Blithe Images
Author: Nora Roberts
First published January 1, 1982
219 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780373218417 (ISBN10: 0373218419)
Rating: 3.62
Overview
Behind the dazzling allure of his charming personality, Bret Bardoff, the renowned magazine mogul, was just a man in search of true love. When he meets Hillary Baxter, a stunning fashion model from Kansas, he is immediately drawn to her.
Hillary’s small-town roots and unassuming nature make her stand out in the cutthroat fashion industry. Despite his reputation for wooing women with ease, Bret finds himself powerless against Hillary’s innocent charm.
As they get to know each other, Bret realizes that he may have finally found the one person who can break down the walls he has built around his heart. Will their love withstand the pressures of their glamorous lifestyles, or will their differences prove too great to overcome?
About the Author
With over 200 novels under her belt, Nora Roberts has become a household name in the literary world. Her books, such as Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, and Legacy, have all graced the New York Times bestseller list.
Fans of her work will be excited to know that she has a new novel coming out in November 2021 called The Becoming, which is the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. In addition to her romance novels, Roberts also writes futuristic suspense under the pen name J.D. Robb, with the In Death series being one of her most popular works.
Her books are so beloved that over 500 million copies have been printed.
Editoral Review
Blithe Images, written by the prolific and immensely popular romance novelist Nora Roberts, was first published in 1982. As one of her early works, this novel provides an intriguing look into the early style and themes that have since become hallmarks of Roberts’ writing.
Set in the world of high fashion in New York City in the early 1980s, Blithe Images tells the story of successful fashion photographer Hilary Baxter. At the height of her career, she is handed the opportunity of a lifetime – to photograph the reclusive and enigmatic new CEO of a rising cosmetics empire.
Unfortunately, they clash upon meeting, and he makes it clear that he is not interested in being photographed by anyone, let alone a woman. However, as their relationship evolves, Hilary and the CEO – Bret Bardoff – find themselves entangled in a passionate romance that must remain a secret.
Despite the occasional dated references to fashion and technology, the novel presents itself as an entertaining and enjoyable romantic story, some of which can feel a little formulaic. The two main characters are strong and well-developed, with Hilary providing the perfect balance of wit and determination, and Bret offering a life of luxury and mystery with his brooding eyes and dark past.
Roberts’ writing style is fluid and engaging, allowing the reader to easily become lost in the romantic fantasy she has created. However, the book does suffer from some pacing issues.
Some scenes, particularly in the first half of the book, feel slow and unnecessary, while the romantic tension is often not given as much focus as it should have been. Additionally, some of the 1980s cultural references can feel awkward and forced, taking away from the overall enjoyment of the book.
That being said, Blithe Images offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high fashion and corporate power in the 1980s, as well as exploring the themes of gender roles and expectations in the workplace. These themes are still relevant today, and modern readers will find them to be a thoughtful addition to the novel.
Overall, while it may not be Roberts’ strongest novel to date, Blithe Images is a delightful read that is sure to please fans of the romance genre. The combination of fashion, power, and passion creates a captivating romance that is difficult to put down.
For those looking for a lighthearted and entertaining read, this book is the perfect choice.
Rating: 3.5/5
