Title: The Prince of Midnight
Author: Laura Kinsale
First published January 1, 1990
328 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780759203181 (ISBN10: 0759203180)
Rating: 3.76
Overview
When Lady Caroline’s family is killed by a sinister cult, she dons the guise of a boy and sets out to find the notorious S.T. Maitland, the once-feared Prince of Midnight. In his secluded French castle, Maitland is now a recluse with only a pet wolf for company.
He’s deaf in one ear, plagued by vertigo, and far too sentimental for Caroline’s tastes. But as they embark on a journey of vengeance together, they find solace in each other’s struggles and begin to heal the wounds of their past.
Will they be able to overcome their individual demons and find love amidst the chaos and danger of their mission?
About the Author
Laura Kinsale is a successful author, known for her New York Times bestselling books. She has won and been nominated multiple times for the Best Book of the Year award by the Romance Writers of America.
Before becoming a romance writer, Laura worked as a geologist for six years. Her job involved waking up in the middle of the night and driving long distances across west Texas to drilling rigs.
She would wear a hard hat and try to give orders to oil-covered men much bigger than her. Laura realized that this was not the life she wanted, so she left her geology career behind and started writing romance novels.
Now, she spends her days sitting in a chair, staring into space, and trying to figure out What-Happens-Next.
Laura and her husband David split their time between Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Texas.
Editoral Review
The Prince of Midnight by Laura Kinsale is a historical romance novel, first published on January 1, 1990. Kinsale is a prolific author of romance novels, known for her intricate plots, well-developed characters, and vivid descriptions of the era in which each book is set.
The Prince of Midnight is one of her most distinguished works, and it continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world. Set in England in the early 18th century, The Prince of Midnight follows the story of Leigh Strachan, a notorious highwayman, and his encounter with Lady Emily Anne Callaghan.
Emily is the daughter of the Duke of Clarewood, a staunch opponent of Leigh’s band of robbers. What begins as a chance meeting soon turns into a passionate love affair that defies social conventions and the expectations of those around them.
Kinsale’s writing style is rich, detailed, and often poetic. Her descriptions of the English countryside, the architecture of the era, and the clothing worn by the characters are vivid and immersive, transporting the reader to another time and place.
Her characters are complex, flawed, and entirely human, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, dreams and desires. The relationship between Leigh and Emily is the driving force behind the novel, and Kinsale handles it with skill and sensitivity.
Their love affair is both tender and passionate, and it develops slowly and believably. The obstacles they face – including their own fears and insecurities, the disapproval of society’s upper echelons, and the ongoing threat of Leigh’s criminal activities – are well-realized and keep the reader invested in the outcome.
One of the main strengths of The Prince of Midnight is its historical accuracy. Kinsale has clearly done her research, and the novel is full of fascinating details about life in 18th-century England.
From the political climate of the era to the types of weapons used by highwaymen, Kinsale’s attention to detail is impressive and adds depth to the story. However, the novel is not without its flaws.
At times, the pacing is slow, and the prose can be overly ornate. Additionally, some readers may take issue with the portrayal of Leigh as a “romantic” outlaw, as it may romanticize criminal behavior.
Overall, however, The Prince of Midnight is a beautifully written and engaging romance novel that is sure to delight fans of the genre. Kinsale’s impressive attention to detail, well-drawn characters, and believable romance make this a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction or romance novels.
For fans of historical romance, The Prince of Midnight comes highly recommended. Its well-realized setting, complex characters, and captivating romance make for an unforgettable reading experience.
The novel earns a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars – a near-perfect score that reflects its many strengths and occasional weaknesses.
