Title: It Happened One Autumn
Author: Lisa Kleypas
First published September 27, 2005
382 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Rating: 4.11
Overview
In the grand ballroom, Lila Patel stood out with her colorful saree and her confident stride. But when she crosses paths with the handsome but judgmental billionaire, Aiden Reynolds, she couldn’t help but feel out of place.
Aiden was everything she wasn’t – polished, wealthy and sophisticated. However, fate had other plans.
In an unexpected turn of events, Lila found herself in Aiden’s arms, completely swept away by his raw magnetism. Despite their differences, Aiden and Lila found themselves drawn to each other with an intensity that left them breathless.
But with their worlds so far apart, could they ever make it work? Would Aiden take a chance on a woman who didn’t fit his mold of the perfect wife?
About the Author
Lisa Kleypas has won the prestigious RITA award for her outstanding work as an author of 21 novels. Her books are beloved by readers worldwide, and have been translated into fourteen different languages.
Currently residing in Washington State, Lisa enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her husband and two children.
Editoral Review
Lisa Kleypas novel It Happened One Autumn is a stunningly captivating historical romance set in Victorian-era England. Published on September 27, 2005, the novel follows the story of American heiress Lillian Bowman and the Duke of Westcliff, Marcus Marsden, as they navigate societal expectations, their own stubbornness, and their undeniable attraction to each other.
Kleypas writing style is rich and vivid, transporting the reader to a bygone era of grand ballrooms, sumptuous estates, and scandalous secrets. Themes of class, gender roles, and the power of love weave throughout the story, adding depth and complexity to the plot.
The novel opens with Lillians arrival in England, where she is immediately deemed an unsuitable match for any respectable British gentleman due to her American background and outspoken nature. Despite her misgivings about English society, Lillian finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Marcus Marsden, a man with a reputation for being cold and unapproachable.
As their paths continue to cross, Lillian and Marcus begin to see beyond each others facades and start to develop a deep intimacy that neither of them can resist. But their burgeoning relationship is complicated by their respective stations in life, as well as a host of external factors that threaten to tear them apart.
Kleypas characters are well-developed, with Lillian and Marcus standing out as complex, multifaceted figures who defy easy categorization. Lillians fiery spirit and determination make her a refreshing and relatable protagonist, while Marcus gradual thawing towards her adds satisfying depth to his enigmatic persona.
The pacing of the novel is excellent, with tension building gradually towards the climax without ever feeling rushed or forced. Kleypas attention to historical detail is impeccable, adding richness and authenticity to the setting.
Overall, It Happened One Autumn is a superb example of the historical romance genre, offering plenty of swoon-worthy moments and breathless romance while also grappling with weighty themes and complex characters. While the novel may not be for everyone, those who enjoy a well-crafted, emotionally resonant love story set against a lush historical backdrop will find much to love here.
One of the few flaws in the novel is that some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, with their motivations and personalities sometimes feeling vague or flat. Additionally, some readers may find the resolution of the central conflict to be somewhat predictable.
Despite these minor criticisms, It Happened One Autumn is a must-read for fans of historical romance and Lisa Kleypas alike. Its beautiful prose, complex characters, and compelling storyline make it a standout in the genre.
For those seeking a captivating love story with both emotional weight and historical significance, It Happened One Autumn is a highly recommended read. Washington Post gives the novel a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars.