The Escape by Mary Balogh (review)

                                         

5 out of 5 stars


The Escape by Mary Balogh is part of the ‘Survivors’ Club’ series and centers on Sir Benedict (Ben) Harper, who has barely survived the war but is still struggling with his severe injuries, some of which have made it virtually impossible for him to walk. His depression and aimlessness leads him to visit his sister, Beatrice, where he makes a less than salubrious impression upon widow Samantha McKay who has escaped the strictures of her sister-in-law, only to have her outing ruined by the apparently boorish man. Further acquaintance gradually allows each of them to realize that although they each have hurdles to overcome, life may still be worth exploring. Samantha’s desperate decision to change her life may either be the best or worst gamble she has ever made and Ben must decide whether to explore the possibilities of that become available to him or continue along the path that he is on.

This beautiful historical romance continues to demonstrate this author’s ability to present individuals tortured by their experiences who find a way to claw their way to happiness. The intense and heartwrenching after-effects of war has a pervasive influence on both those who fought directly and those who are at home, and this story exquisitely depicts the journey that two wounded souls take. I love the way each of them must learn to be their own advocate, and reach for a dream that seems unreachable. Vows made and honored can either be a source of strength or a prison, and the story explores the importance of deciding what one is comfortable with accepting or fighting against, even as it emphasizes that there are multiple aspects to any story which colors one’s perception. My favorite aspect of this author’s works is that the characters are definitely not perfect but find a way to face their failings and grow beyond them, making difficult decisions that may not conform with society’s dictates but which are right for them. I enjoyed the opportunity to get a slightly different view of events touched upon in other books of this series and look forward to reading more about the unique members of the Survivors’ Club.

© Night Owl Reviews 

I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review. 



Other titles in the Survivor's Club series:


          

My review of The Arrangement is at this link

The Arrangement by Mary Balogh

                                           


The Arrangement by Mary Balogh is part of the ‘Survivors’ Club’ series and is a wonderful addition to the stories which focus on a group of people who have survived horrendous injuries and are slowly finding a way to live again rather than just exist. Vincent Hunt inherited a title and has become Viscount Darleigh but has not quite found a way to discourage his well-meaning family from overcompensating for his blindness. His attempt to escape their machinations results in the possibility of his freedom being even more threatened until the timely intervention of Sophia Fry, who is superficially a mouse of a young woman but has an indomitable spirit. Their blossoming relationship could reap freedom for both of them but only if they learn to be honest with one another in time.





This delicious historical romance provides another opportunity to fall in love with this author’s ability to weave a poignant tale that celebrates courage and romance. The inspiring characters that people this series are self-proclaimed survivors but they are feeling their way back to becoming active members of society who still have something to contribute. It was fascinating to read about the steps that Vincent has taken in order to overcome his handicap and heartwarming to see the mutual benefit that is obtained when he and Sophie become comfortable with one another. The faithful assistant, Martin Fisk, definitely deserves his time in the spotlight as well and I hope to hear more about his romance in future tales just as I enjoy getting glimpses of the other members of the ‘Club’. The beautiful emotionalism evoked in this tale is a testament to Ms. Balogh’s ability to create vivid word pictures and I was particularly struck by the description of George Crabbe’s care for Vincent when he was first recovering from his wounds. This is definitely a tale to read with a tissue close at hand but one will definitely appreciate the crucible that both of these characters undergo and cheer for their ability to survive what life has thrown at them. I look forward to reading more in this compelling series.

© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.

The Arrangement (Amazon buy link)
 

The first book in this series is The Proposal.  I haven't had the pleasure of reading it yet, but it is definitely on my very long to-do list!