Review: Lady Jenny’s Christmas Portrait by Grace Burrowes

I anxiously awaited the publication of Lady Jenny’s Christmas Portrait. It was going to be my “go-to” holiday book. You know – festive, Christmas-y, romantic. It was not, however, what I expected. At first, I felt disloyal to author Grace Burrowes (I love her!), because I did not like Lady Jenny. How could this be? I already knew and loved her siblings and their spouses. I came to respect her parents, the Duke and Duchess of Moreland, because, like most parents, what they really want is happiness for their large brood. I was all set. Lady Jenny and her man were going fall head over heels at the yuletide season, and all would be fluffy and magical and lovely. How could Lady Jenny not understand that?

I should have known better. I should have known better because Grace Burrowes is not a fluffy writer. Ms. Burrowes writes about characters that are human and flawed and imperfect. She writes about characters that have hopes and disappointments, that suffer heartbreaks and victories, and that are deep and complicated.

As Jenny and portrait artist Elijah Harrison begin their acquaintance based on a shared artistic talent, the reader begins to see that both characters have goals and dreams that reach beyond a romantic relationship. As a relationship develops, the reader realizes that it is important for these two to resolve issues outside themselves. As their relationship deepens, Jenny and Elijah must come to grips with their own perceived needs and familial baggage in order for them to at last achieve their own happily-ever-after. But first a little growing up. Some angst. Definite sensuality. But no fluff.

Sometimes I wanted to shake Lady Genevieve Windham! I mean, really. Here is this gorgeous, talented, man who comes to adore her and she drags her feet. Repeatedly. Hello! I mean if I had a gorgeous, talented, patient, man who adored me, I would not be dealing with private sadness or dreams unrealized or my family’s perception of me as the unmarried and loving aunt. Oh, wait! Yes, I would. I would do exactly that. I would fret and analyze and do my best to sabotage the whole deal. Because I am human and flawed and imperfect, and I would doubt and fuss and do my best to ruin it. Huh. Looks like Grace Burrowes has snuck in and gone ahead and been brilliant. As usual.

Purchase: | Amazon | Kindle | B&N |