Longing

Author:

Mary Balogh

Published:

Topaz, December 1994 ; 377 pages

Subgenre:

Historical romance -- Victorian

Setting:

Wales, 1839

Main characters:

Alexander Hyatt, Marquess of Craille, and Sian Jones

Sexual explicitness:

Explicit

Keywords:

Intrigue ; class differences, eisteddfod, governesses, illegitimacy, Methodists, mining

Reader rating:

Reader comments:

I have lots of "favorite" authors, in various genres and styles--but for pure, heart-rending romance, I'll take Mary Balogh every time. Longing is Balogh at the pinnacle of what she does best; a sweet sadness permeates every scene, and I can't turn the pages fast enough. I read her books over and over again. (S.M., 3-17-97) I'm a new fan of Balogh and I'm glad I discovered her books. I was struck immediately by her depiction of life in a mining town in Wales in the 1830's. The noblity and working-class were miles apart socially as well as financially and Balogh shows that by having the Marquess' home high on the mountain and Sian's mining family down in the valley. Which makes Sian's dilemma all the more tragic. She is stuck between two worlds, but her need or "longing" to be accepted in her community has brought her nothing but unhappiness and discontentment. I loved Alexander. He too has a "longing" to a part of a place and part of a loving relationship and despite knowing that Sian is unacceptable socially (and will always be) he follows his heart because he knows he can never be happy without her. That's ROMANCE! The characters were stunning and this book looks at life realistically and that's what sets this book apart from other run-of-the-mill romances. Wonderful book. (K.G., 1-27-97) Balogh's best book, in my opinion; romantic and interesting, with lots about her native Wales. (E.P., 12-9-96)

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