Customer Reviews

The Italian Groom (Modern Romance)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I am a great fan of author Jane Porter, and her writing speaks to a woman's heart! I recently read her first book, "The Italian Groom". I was delighted, but not surprised, that Jane's voice as an author has always been strong and true. "The Italian Groom" is a touching, passionate romance between two old friends who take the long way around to find happiness. When Meg Buckner returns to her home area in California to accept the job assignment of her dreams, she brings along a secret and must also confront hidden truths from her past. Niccolo Dominici, the best friend of Meg's late brother, is also the man with whom Meg has always been in love. Niccolo tries to dominate Meg's stay in California, insisting that he knows what is best for her and persisting in calling her "Maggie". After Niccolo learns that Meg is pregnant by a married man, he insists upon marrying her as a matter of honor and to protect and provide for her future and that of her child. After much protesting and soul-searching, all the while acknowledging her growing attraction to Niccolo, Meg agrees to the marriage. Niccolo must admit to himself that he is not only attracted to her, but he has some very deep feelings for "his Maggie". Old friendships, family secrets, and newfound passions all come together for a beautifully told romantic tale in "The Italian Groom".

I liked that this story had a unique to Harlequin set up.

The chivalrous hero, the setting and the back story all worked. The heroine, on the other hand, left much to be desired. What a rotten woman. Not only does she have an affair and get pregnant by a MARRIED man, she treats her own husband quite shabbily.

I think it is safe to say that this heroine had no respect for the sanctity of marriage. I am not one to advocate violence, but there was at least one scene where I would have excused it. I was incredulous at the heroine's actions and disgusted by her lack or remorse and complete inability to understand the perspective of the fine man who was her husband. I was almost hoping Nic would salvage his pride and the heartbaches to come by asking for a divorce and cutting his losses.

What a swell hero gone to waste.

I gave the book two stars because I like Jane Porter and think she is a fine writer. I can also see why others would like this book. I could just not get over the heroine who completely ruined the book for me.

This is a rather short romance, but the author has packed a wealth of emotions inside its pages. The hero is strong and noble, old-world ethical and very Italian. When his childhood friend is in trouble, Nic is there for her. Meg is a strong heroine, and I could identify with her, although there were instances in which she should have just smacked Nic across the face. This is a quick read and very enjoyable.

I hated this book!!! The hero was a decent guy but the heroine - she pushed every ick button I have. Selfish, selfish, selfish and this is supposed to be romance? I didn't think so.

Jane Porter may portray Maggie as fun, passionate, generous and caring but she doesn't really succeed in it. Maggie got pregnant by some jerk and comes back home. When Nic finds out, he demands to marry her. They get married but then there's the question about their love for each other.

To me, Maggie was a passive person, someone that doesn't have the emotion and strength. Nic has the hero quality but he's too military like. He doesn't seem to show a lot of emotion. I know he has the emotions because the author even puts the story from his point of view. But they deffinitely need more work. Especially with one of their problem. I thought that it wasn't really resolved and that the characters just left it alone.

I gave this 3 stars because there are some good points to the story. Like their truth or dare game, which showed some realness to it.

^_^ ~ Izzy