Member Reviews
His Delightful Lady Delia
by Grace Hitchcock
Pub Date 01 Nov 2022 | Archive Date 11 Dec 2022
Bethany House,Bethany House Publishers
Christian| Historical Fiction| Romance
I am reviewing a copy of His Delightful Lady Delia through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
Behind the curtain, she must perform the performance of a lifetime . . . while love and risk are at the forefront.
Delia Vittoria's mother has lost her voice at last. Five years after being her diva mother's understudy, Delia is ready to take her place as the lead soprano behind the faded velvet curtain of the Academy of Music. The new rich's lavish new Metropolitan Opera House is the only thing standing between the Academy and its greatest threat.
Kit Quincy never misses opening night, but when his sister begs him to assist her with getting her husband out of an Italian opera star's arms, Kit is unintentionally confronted by Lady Vittoria. A society matron's plot to win the great opera war draws him into a conspiracy to make amends with the stunning young diva. As Delia Vittoria becomes the Academy's new soprano star, Kit is persuaded to serve as both Delia's patron and the enigmatic phantom that once haunted the Academy. However, when a second phantom appears, more than Delia's career is at risk.
I give His Delightful Lady Delia five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
This is book 3 of the America Royalty series, Christian Historical read. Delia is taken on a big career move, being an opera star, after having to replace her mother. When she meets Kit, it is an experience she will never forget. Kit makes a mistake, then decides to make it right, when more issues appear. Will Delia see that Kit is on her side? What will Kit do to make sure Delia gets the recognition she deserves?
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes the Phantom of the Opera, as this is the updated version of that story. This read is a page turner and keeps you turning the pages until the very end. It is a fun, mystery, drama, light romance read. It is book 3 of the series, however can be read as a stand alone.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.
QOTD: Do you like authors including well-loved plays in the plot of their stories??
My AOTD: I DO!! Especially when it’s my favorite “The Phantom of the Opera “.
Grace took this wonderful play and created a fresh take on it that involved some great characters and lots of intrigue. Tie-ins were littered throughout but with alternate persons or places and I loved it. Delia was spunky but shy and it was great to see Kit draw her personality out. I liked Kit a whole lot in the first book so I was very happy about him getting his own story. He always struck me as a kind but engaging man who didn’t understand his appeal to ladies. Delia really saw him and together they taught the other that they are worthy of true love. The side characters brought much to the story as well, deepening the plot and, at times, frustrating the MCs. But the revelations as the story moved along were so well done that I just knew everyone would eventually get what they needed or deserved. The romance was just the right touch of sweet and yet swoony. This tale was the perfect ending to a series that started with a “Bachelor” type story as its first book. I highly recommend that you add this book, and the first two to your TBR shelves so you can enjoy them several times over. They definitely belong on every romance reader’s shelves.
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
This is such a delightful book. It is the third book in the American Royalty series.
A wonderful mix of drama, music, secrets, the stage, reveals, suspense and intrigue.
I really enjoy stories set during the Gilded age, there is something just a little extra about them. This really had a lot going on in it. I just couldn't put it down.
I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Pub Date 01 Nov 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the first book by Grace Hitchcock I have read and I will definitely be reading more books by this author. Though I have not read the other books in the series, it was still fun to see the previous books' main characters be a part of the plot. I'm not a fan of opera but I enjoyed how "Phantom of the Opera" was incorporated into the storyline. Delia was a lovable character - full of life, music, and passion but also filled with doubt, insecurity, and pain. The secrets between her mother and father and the circumstances surrounding their failed marriage were quite intricate; the plot twists and surprises were plentiful throughout the story. Kit was absolutely delightful in his loyalty, tenderness, and gentlemanliness. He certainly made a dashing hero.
If you enjoy historical romance set in the Gilded Age, you will totally enjoy this book. I'm off to read the rest of the series!
I received the book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I have been looking forward to Kit's story since meeting him in My Dear Miss Dupre. He really is a likable character, and I have been waiting for his happily ever after. This story is a fun one with a mystery or two along the way. Enjoyed this one!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and also purchased my own Audiobook copy. I was not required to post a positive review.
She felt in her heart that she had just agreed to a friendship that could change everything.
Delia Vittoria had been in the Academy of Music in New York City as long as she could remember, as her mother was the Diva there. In 1883 there was great interest in anything royal. With circumstances changing, she found herself wondering who she really was. There is lots of mystery and intrigue in this opera house - even a phantom! You don’t want to miss how things finally work out for Delia and how she realizes the importance of being complete in Christ, even without the praise of men or the love of a father.
An ebook was received through Bear Publishing Group, Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Delia has been training to become a lead opera singer for as long as she can remember. Her opportunity comes up to be on stage and suddenly, her whole world begins to change. New doors begin to open as well as being escorted by Kit. She soon finds out that being in the spotlight comes with new challenges. When the Phantom of the Opera comes to support Delia, things become even more complicated.
The book was full of lighthearted humor that made me laugh. The book also contained deeper topics of forgiveness and feelings of worthiness and acceptance. The characters were well written and believable. It was a story that I enjoyed and could have kept on reading.
This was my first book by the author and I look forward to going back and reading other books in the series. I am happy that I stumbled upon this book. I had a hard time putting the book down. I had an even harder time saying goodbye to the characters that I enjoyed getting to know while reading their story.
I would recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
His Delightful Lady Delia by Grace Hitchcock is the third book in the American Royalty series and a definite must read if you love inspirational historical gothic romances.
I knew this story would be perfect for me to read since it is Grace Hitchcock's version of the well known book and Broadway musical The Phantom of the Opera, both of which I love. Her version is enchanting and the perfect book to add to this wonderful series which is steeped in history, society rules and customs along with characters who are wonderfully captivating. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Highly engaging and entertaining, I was swept away into the Gilded Age as rising opera star Delia Vittoria and Kit Quincy find themselves working together at the behest of Mrs. Astor, despite a disastrous first meeting.
I loved seeing some familiar faces from the previous books, yet this book stands on its own. I loved Kit for his honorable standards, sense of duty, and sincerity. And I loved the scenes with Delia and Kit the best. Delia has not had an easy upbringing, her life dictated by her mother's whims and choices. I admired her for making different choices than her mother, courage, and faith.
Overall, a wonderful read from beginning to end. Well paced, engagingly bringing the Gilded Age to life, with characters that I could cheer for throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful read, that brought a smile to my face!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This was a truly delightful read. Between the romance, mystery, and family angst, I fell in love with the characters. Kit and Delia kept me on my reading toes, and the moments of frivolity between them that always seemed to draw them closer to each other were swoon-worthy. Kit is the perfect hero for Delia, and she is the perfect heroine to show Kit his true worth. While this is book 3 in the series, I had no trouble reading it as a standalone. However, I do want to go back and read the first two, just because I love Grace Hitchcock's immersive writing style and the way she effortlessly weaves faith into her stories. I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Mystery, romance, music, elegant society, and a scandalous family history bring together a cast of characters that tugged at my heartstrings or made me furious in His Delightful Lady Delia.
From chapter one, I heard the staccato organ tune in my head that is synonymous with the beloved soundtrack for Phantom of the Opera, and as each scene changed, so did the song. The story is one of my favorites and it wasn’t long before I felt like I was reading Le fantôme part deux. From the phantom’s anger over the songstress’ place in the opera house to the tender romance of our leading couple…Grace Hitchcock didn’t miss an element of the beloved story while adding her own twist. It didn’t bother me that I found so many similarities to the Broadway performance because the book lacked the over-sexualization and hyper-creepyness that some might find repelling. rather, it oozed what real love and romance were to look like and I found that our hero, Kit Quincy, said it best…
“To love, truly love, is more than a brief infatuation that withers at the first sign of adversity. Love withstands even the harshest storm. I know how to hold fast when all seems lost.” Kit.
Speaking of Kit, I must say, Ms. Hitchcock weaved a beautiful tapestry of a mature, masculine man who was complex and almost swoon-worthy. His grown affections for Delia were tangible to me and I always heard All I Ask Of You from the play when our couple had their moments–beautiful.
Delia was a young woman looking for a love that was real and true while she battled with her desire to be seen as worthy in her parents’ eyes. I loved that she knew her place as a child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made, but it is different when those who were to love her only used her. I found myself wholly invested in her and cheering her on, especially when Kit repeatedly displayed his desire to love her as she deserved.
I could go on and on about this story but you need to read it for yourself. You would be disappointed.
**I was given a copy of this book by the publisher through CelebrateLit Publicities. All thoughts and views are my own and a positive review was not required.
“We are stronger than their secrets.”
Truly delightful, this novel by Grace Hitchcock delivers! History, duplicity, intrigue, love in many forms, and double standards all come together to create an unforgettable tale of a talented young singer searching for identity and a father’s love. His Delightful Lady Delia captured my attention and kept me glued to the pages until the last word. While this book is third in the series, it stands alone well. It did whet my appetite to read the other two!
One thing that stands out to me is the double standard that surrounds the opera houses. The very rich love to go and be seen, be known as patrons, yet the singers themselves are looked upon with disdain by the common person. Their morality is questioned and they are often isolated from society. No wonder Delia is searching for love and belonging.
The other thing that resonates with me is how imperfect and selfish “love” can be. Madre is both in competition with her daughter and supporting her daughter’s professional growth. Madre is protective of Delia, yet still ego-centric. She gives real meaning to the phrase “prima donna.”
I loved the mystery of the Phantom. I was partially correct in guessing the culprit, but also totally off. I never saw that character in that role before he is revealed! How satisfying. Great twist at the end. I am also grateful for the historical notes at the end, that separate fact from fiction. I closed the book with a very satisfied sigh.
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“A man can love two women at the same time”…“Not well, nor in the manner they deserve—with respect.”
“Kit was slowly chipping away at her safely hidden emotions that she only trotted out for the stage. When had pretense become reality?”
“This time she would not bow to someone because they thought themselves superior simply because they had money. She was precious in God’s eyes, and even if her father had abandoned her, she still had her character…”
“Just remember, Delia, your worth does not hang on the dithering praises of society. Keep your trust in Jesus and He will never leave you. He will cover you with the shadow of His fatherly wing and protect you. As a believer, you are a child of God and will forever know to whom you belong—not to a mother with scandal dripping from her name, not to society, not to that wayward father of yours, but to God alone.”
I have been a fan of Phantom of the Opera since I was a teenager and saw a movie from the 40s on TCM. I don’t remember much about that movie other than Claude Rains (he was a pretty memorable actor no matter what movie he was in), but my appreciation of the Phantom story began then and grew and grew. I have seen Andrew Lloyd Webber’s play three times on stage, and when Gerard Butler’s version came to theaters in 2004 you better believe I saw the film…many, many times, and then owned the DVD and music soundtrack. You could definitely say I am a Phantom fan. So, when I discovered that the final installment in the American Royalty series by Grace Hitchcock was going to be a Phantom story I was even more excited to get my hands on a copy. I have thoroughly enjoyed each novel in this series, but book 3 is my favorite! I loved every single moment spent with these characters, and the Phantom story is told SO well. It’s definitely a nod to the original storyline, but Hitchcock adds her own unique spin and I really enjoyed it. As far as the plot goes, I was hooked from page one and did not want to put this book down — there might have been a couple of nights I stayed up well past my bedtime reading. I was super engaged the whole read. Hitchcock does a fantastic job of perfectly balancing character action, witty and inspirational dialogue, and honest introspection. Speaking of her characters, they are excellently written. Kit is a fantastic hero. I have loved his character since book one and could not wait to get to his story. The wait was well worth it. He is handsome, he is noble, and he is wise. And he is at that age in life where he knows exactly what matters most and who he wants to spend his time with. I love that he is an “older” hero. He brings wisdom and life experience to his relationships whether those relationships are friendships, family, or more of a courting kind. I also really love how he matches so well to Delia. When she starts to spin out of control, Kit is there to be a peaceful, calming influence. He is her stability in a world that often looks and feels chaotic and overwhelming. Delia is and excellent heroine, and she is 24. She is hardworking, incredibly talented, and super strong in her faith and morals. But she is 24. At the start of this story, she is young and isolated. She needs Kit to come into her life to help her character develop and grow up a little. I love their chemistry. I felt it progresses nicely over the course of the story. But what I really like the most about this couple is that they talk. When problems arise, they are quick to discuss their feelings, their insecurities, etc. And, honestly, it’s because of Kit’s age. He is able to anticipate where Delia’s thoughts are going and he confronts the issues as they come up so there is no festering of ugly feelings or emotions. It’s really quite cool. I love how Kit and Delia relate to one another, how they confide in each other, because it shows a couple actually becoming a couple. It is realistic and I enjoyed every minute of their friends-to-more romance.
His Delightful Lady Delia is an excellent read; one I highly recommend. If you are a fan of the Phantom storyline, or of seriously well-written Historical Romances, or of just plain good storytelling then I highly recommend purchasing a copy of this delightful story today. You will not be disappointed you did!
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Bethany House Publishers, via NetGalley in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
His Delightful Lady Delia
by Grace Hitchcock
Pub DAte: November 1, 2022
Bethany House
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. This is the third book in the series and I had not read the other two. Hitchcock is a new author for me, but she is an excellent writer. Also this came from one of my favorite publishers, Bethany House, so I was pretty sure it would be good.
Truly delightful, this novel by Grace Hitchcock delivers! History, duplicity, intrigue, love in many forms, and double standards all come together to create an unforgettable tale of a talented young singer searching for identity and a father’s love. His Delightful Lady Delia captured my attention and kept me glued to the pages until the last word. While this book is the third in the series, it stands alone well. It did whet my appetite to read the other two!
I will recommend!
5 stars
His Delightful Lady Delia is written by Grace Hitchcock. This is book three in the American Royalty series. I have not read the other books in the series, and I did not have any issues following along. The author has done a wonderful job in transporting us to the past - and you will be drawn in within the first few pages. This reminds me of The Phantom of the Opera with a twist.
Delia Vittoria has been her mother's understudy and she finally gets her chance when her mother loses her voice. Her mother is a well known opera singer. Kit Quincy feels he is too old for love. He has some hurt and baggage. He was introduced in a previous book - and got his chance for his story to be told. He has an interesting encounter with Delia to start with - and when he realizes his error he is captivated by her.
The story had mystery, romance and historical details throughout the story. The characters are well developed. The storyline intriguing. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
What a fun new retelling of The Phantom of the Opera in a Victorian setting. I loved the characters. This is book three in a series and you definitely are revisiting characters from the previous two novels. So read this series in order if you want to get the most out of it.
I loved the mystery in this book. The characters were relatable and drew me in. That said the book also deals with infidelity and a few other hard topics. But they’re dealt with and shown in a hard light so that they’re not glorified. I’ve never been one to see or listen to Opera but I found myself doing so while reading this book. Scandalous I know!
If you’re looking for a great historical fiction book then this is for you. And, if you’re wanting a series start with book one!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Finally Kit’s Book!!!!
I’ve been waiting for Kit to find love. Lady Delia and her Madre…. Oh my! Add in the Phantom of the Opera and the many family secrets! This was a book that I just did not want to put down! I can see room for another book or two. Hoping Grace Hitchcock has at least one planned.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
In His Delightful Lady Delia, Grace Hitchcock delivers a well-rounded story for fans of the previous books in the American Royalty series, as well as readers new to the author’s books.
Hitchcock introduced Kit Quincy as one of the men vying for the hand of Miss Dupre, so it was an utter delight to catch up with him again and travel his road to his happy ending. Delia is a brand-new character who readers haven’t seen before, yet the author does an excellent job of developing both Kit and Delia into well-rounded characters with plenty of personality and baggage.
The nod to The Phantom of the Opera is apparent throughout the story, yet there is enough of a twist on it that the story also feels brand new. Mistaken identity, subterfuge, and a touch of humor make this book a fun and engaging read to end the series.
Disclosure statement: I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
His Delightful Lady Delia Grace Hitchcock is the third book in the American Royalty series. It can be a stand alone novel, but the series is worth reading. Kit Quincy is getting older and though he enjoys his hotels he wishes for more. Lady Delia is not the just the understudy at the Opera anymore, but the newest star. Can she overcome her past and families’ tragedies to walk fully in her new role?
Delia and Kit are both the kind of characters that you just can’t help but root for. They are examples of really nice people who you are always hopeful will find another really nice person to love. The story’s setting in New York City during the Gilded age has all the charm associated with it. The author paints a beautiful picture of the time as we learn about hotels, the opera, and the Knickerbocker society . The story has some mystery, suspense, and a great love story. The author naturally weaves in the faith of both main characters providing a satisfying read!
I was looking forward to Kit’s story and was glad he found his happily ever after. This is a delightful read that I recommend!
I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.