Member Reviews
This is a wonderful look at the opera world during this historical setting. Delia is quite the character and I loved her innocence at times. After her father left her and her mother, they have struggled to survive. Her mother is a very talented opera singer and enjoys the spotlight. I wish I could say good things about Delia’s mother but she has made poor choices which causes people to shun her. Having an affair with a married man does’t sit well with people. But she does adore her daughter and will do anything for her.
After being in her mother’s shadow for so long, Delia gets the chance to be center stage finally. I loved how she was well received by many and hopes of a bright future look promising. Delia is put in an uncomfortable position when there is a power struggle between the Academy of Music and the Metropolitan Opera. A plan is set and I loved how the author includes the Phantom of The Opera in the story. This piqued my interest and I couldn’t wait to see how it would play out.
Kit impressed me with his dashing gentleman ways and makes a smashing hit in this story. We met him in an earlier story in this series where his heart was broken. He is now in control of hotels and has a place with the elite that grants him recognition. When he and Delia team up to save one of the theaters danger comes their way. The author includes secrets, mystery, faith and a few laughs in this charming story.
I loved how the story traces back to Delia’s father and how many secrets were exposed as her father finally comes to see her. There were quite a few surprises in the story which quickly turned the story into a mystery of sorts. The author does a great job in unraveling the past and illustrating how important faith is.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
4 1/2 stars! Loved this third book in the American Royalty series! The Phantom of the Opera is one of my favorite stories and this delightful retelling puts an enjoyable twist on the classic book. I loved Kit Quincy when he was introduced in My Dear Miss Dupre and was excited that this book focuses on his story. It’s fun, sweet, inspirational, and romantic with a hint of mystery and adventure.
Kit Quincy is one of the elite Knickerbocker 400. In his late 30’s, he voluntarily left a bachelor competition because he felt too old. Though he desires love, his past makes him guard his heart and throw himself into his hotel business. When he meets beautiful opera singer Delia Vittoria under strained circumstances, he makes untrue assumptions which he immediately regrets. As he seeks her out to apologize, he becomes more enchanted with the beautiful young woman.
Hoping to promote her and the Academy of Music’s opera, Kit reluctantly agrees to a scheme by one of Society’s most elite to resurrect the legend of the phantom who once burned down the previous opera house and was obsessed with Delia’s mother. As he plays the phantom, he falls more in love with Delia. But, when another more dangerous phantom appears who isn’t part of the scheme, he must protect her from this new threat as well as secrets from the past.
Delia Vittoria is suddenly thrust into the spotlight when her famous opera singer mother is unable to perform. When a rival new opera house threatens the Academy of Music, she agrees to a scheme to reinvent the phantom who was obsessed with her mother decades before. Her mother’s past is sordid and Delia longs to understand why her father left. When Kit comes into her life, she’s skeptical of him and his motivations, but she can’t help feeling attracted to the handsome man. Will her mother’s past threaten their budding relationship? What happens when Kit isn’t the only phantom haunting the opera house?
I loved this nod to the Phantom of the Opera. I listened to the audiobook version and absolutely loved the narrator. I found myself unable to put it down because the story and narration were so compelling. The narrator does a fantastic job voicing all the characters especially those with various accents.
Delia & Kit are such endearing characters. Kit believes he’s too old for her at first, but Delia awakens in him a sense of adventure and he realizes she’s his perfect match despite the years between them. Delia at first doesn’t want to marry. Her parents’ relationship and the way men have mistaken her character make her leery of suitors. I loved the smoldering attraction between her & Kit that bubbles just below the surface. I also loved the faith both characters express that was expertly woven into the story as a natural part without seeming overbearing. I also liked that while there were humorous moments, they didn’t overpower the story or seem out of character.
Definitely recommend to historical Christian romance readers! While it’s the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I purchased the audiobook version but also received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher through CelebrateLit. All opinions are completely my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
The best part of this intriguing book for me was the behind the scenes look at opera in the 1800's. The book tells the story of an up and coming opera star, with romance and mystery thrown into the mix. The Phantom of the Opera serves as a significant thread in this story and I liked the way the author included it. The Christian message is clear. This is a sweet and clean romance with just enough intrigue to keep the reader's attention.
I received this book from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
His Delightful Lady Delia by Grace Hitchcock is the third book in her series American Royalty. I was highly anticipating the release of this "delightful" book. Although you could certainly read His Delightful Lady Delia as a standalone book, it is so much better in the context of its predecessors.
Kit, the older but very appealing bachelor from Book 1, is fleshed out and given his own story. He is much more exciting and heroic than the snapshot from his early days with Miss Dupre (Book 1 as well). We are introduced to the talented Delia Vittoria as she is about to step into the spotlight to fill in for her voiceless diva mother on the Metropolitan Opera House stage. Her fear and excitement are palpable. In a detour from the first two books, Delia is a character on the outskirts of society and fortune. I love when a book series doesn't follow a formulaic pattern. American Royalty in this third book fulfills that hope as it lays out a completely new storyline while giving us a further glimpse into the lives of characters we've already met and love. Delia is as compelling as her diva opera star mother is off putting. How could the two be so close and yet so totally different? Grace Hitchcock really outdoes herself, masterfully weaving a tale totally unanticipated. Did I mention the Phantom of the Opera makes an appearance or two?
Getting to see backstage, so to speak, into the lives of rich and powerful families such as the Astors of New York was eye opening. In some ways it humanized them, pulled back the curtain, and gave you a peek at them outside the ballrooms and grand events. On the other hand, perish the fool in the crosshairs of the same. Tension and precarious balance were an underlaying and ever present current. Twists and turns sprinkled throughout the pages gripped my attention. It wasn't easy to lay it down and attend to the mundane tasks of life. Needless to say, the conclusion of His Delightful Lady Delia as well as the American Royalty series was satisfying and sigh inducing. I can't wait to read more by Grace Hitchcock.
I received this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews.
What a fitting conclusion to the delightfully entertaining American Royalty series—sweet romance wrapped in rousing adventure and mystery! Set in 1883 New York, this story brings the Italian opera world to life with vivid descriptions and intriguing historical detail. The fast-paced, smoothly flowing plot twists and turns on the way to a satisfying ending. The wonderful cast of characters includes beautiful, talented heroine Delia Vittoria and dashing, honorable hero Kit Quincy. I love the way Kit stands by Delia helping her navigate the revelations and rumors in hopes of a happily ever after together. I have added them to my list of favorite fictional couples. I especially appreciate the strong faith thread that is woven throughout the narrative. I totally enjoyed this book and highly recommend it and the series. Note: Although there are carry over characters from previous books, this one can easily be read as a standalone.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
I loved this book by Grace Hitchcock! I have loved all the books in this series but I really loved this one. I loved that it was a retelling of “The Phantom of the Opera”. I thought the story was masterfully told and I loved the characters. I loved how there were so many secrets that were revealed through out the book as we got to know Delia. This book was very well written and I would recommend it to everyone. Loved this story!
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
This was such a delightful story to read that I found it hard to put down. A romance built around the opera house lures the reader into secrets. I enjoyed all the twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The story came alive for me; I felt as if I were in the opera house watching everything take place. The danger that lurked and the secrets that spilled forth from it made this quite an intriguing story. The romance was dreamy and full of romantic moments. Grace Hitchcock’s books never disappoint!
I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns that this story provided. Though the behavior of some of the "adults" in the story was disappointing.
Delia was such a sweet girl thanks to the maid that invested in her and was more of a mother to her than her own mother. Delia showed her character by rising above the example of her mother's lifestyle. I felt for Delia and what she endured because of her mother's reputation and from her mother. She was example of grace under pressure.
It was so good to see Kit again. He was such a great character in the first book of this series. He is such a gentle soul with internal strength and character.
Enjoyable story from start to finish.
Although a book 3 of the series each book stands independently.
Disclaimer: I did receive the book from the publisher, but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
His Delightful Lady Delia is a historical romance novel written by Grace Hitchcock. It is book three in the American Royalty series. It is not necessary to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this one, but I do recommend the other two books.
Summary: Delia Vittoria has always been in her opera star mother’s shadow-both in her personal life, and her professional one.
But when Delia finally gets the chance to star on stage herself, things get complicated-fast.
Her mother won’t give up the limelight easily, and there is a new opera house in town that could put the Academy of Music out of business for good.
Her family is starting to unravel, and scheming socialites have their own agendas too.
Can Delia survive the politics and become a star? Or will her family secrets ruin everything she has ever dreamed of?
My Thoughts: I really liked this book. At first, I thought I had the whole plot figured out, and didn’t want to keep reading.
But I am glad I did, because there were quite a few plot twists I wasn’t expecting, and they made for a really fun and interesting read.
The characters are well-written, the plot is interesting and unique, and overall, this book served a fitting end to a very good series that I definitely recommend!
I would like to thank Bethany House for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you!
I have enjoyed Grace Hitchcock’s American Royalty series, and His Delightful Lady Delia is a fun spin on a timeless story. I was intrigued by Kit from book one, so it was great to finally get his story. I definitely recommend Hitchcock’s books if you’re in the mood for historical fiction with elements of romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I was thrilled to find that Kit, who played one of Willow's suitors in book 1, is the focus in this book. He is a wonderful character. He finds himself in a crazy spot that had me laughing at its ridiculousness as well as its sentimentality. He cares deeply. "Is it absurd that after only three days at her side, I know I'd wait a decade if that meant she would love me?" (location 1815).
Delia, too, is a memorable woman. She finds that her family has secrets upon secrets and is dealt blow after blow as things are revealed. Yet she learns that the Lord is there for her even when all others forsake her. After experiencing such abandonment, it's hard for her to trust her heart to any man.
I love stories set in the Gilded Age. The behind the scenes operations and the drama of the rival opera houses was new to me. I liked how a famous literary figure was incorporated into the book as well. It was an all around great read with lots of intrigue and mystery. It was a wonderful conclusion to the series. I'm sad to see it end.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The book is a reimagining of the show Phantom of the Opera. I enjoyed how the author showed the reader some behind-the-scenes peeks, and some views from the audience. I love the way this author used humor in the middle of suspenseful situations. Furthermore, I wasn’t sure what I expected from the cover, but I really this book. This story went to some surprising, suspenseful, and mysterious places. Delia was delightful and so was her sidekick, Kit.
Delia Vittoria, is an up-and-coming rising star, training for the lead understudy. She works hard and is determined to make it on her own, so she could be free to support herself and not be controlled by a man. Being controlled did not turn out so well for her mother. I enjoyed the fun twists and turns and how the author gives readers a glimpse into the world of 1800s opera inside and out.
This is a sweet romance mixed with some suspense, and the unraveling drama of Delia’s family and the Phantom. I was pleasantly surprised at how deep this story went. It was delightful to read about this budding romance between Kit and Delia as their faiths are tested, and their futures placed in God’s hands.
I enjoyed the faith journey of Delia, throughout the novel, as she comes to realize that her worth isn’t what the audience and people around her thought, but it was in what God said she was. She was to trust him with her whole heart. No matter how she felt. Who knew one family could have so many secrets.
This is a great escape and one that works well for a book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher.. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have 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 Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
The Book Club Network blog
At the end of the first chapter I realized that Kit Quincy was one of the suitors for Willow's hand in My Dear Miss Dupre'. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to continue reading in Grace Hitchcock's American Royalty series. This book has wonderful protagonists and devious antagonists, and there are those you will think fall in one category when truly they belong in the other! Hitchcock has written yet another exciting Gilded Age tale that will bring readers hours of delightful entertainment. The timeless message of being one of God's children, fully loved, is shown to provide a sense of comfort and security.
I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of His Delightful Lady Delia from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
I enjoy period pieces so much. This story had mystery, intrigue, and class. Deals being made behind the scenes are always fun. Delia’s need to make a place for herself was important and the point I loved most of this story.
#hisdelightfulladydelia #netgalley
As a rising opera star, Delia is determined to steer clear of her mother’s philandering ways and try her best not to have her questionable heritage stain her future. When accusations are thrown her way due to a misunderstanding, the man in error, Kit Quincy, upends his life to make things right. This story takes the reader to opera stages and beyond, through proper society etiquette and the bending of rules, and into the precarious realm of love with all of its complications.
The story and its endearing characters kept me reading well into the night and woke me first thing in the morning to finish this delightful read over coffee. A fitting end to a beloved series, this book is a must-read!
What a wonderful read! This is a clean Christian historical romance with just the right amount of drama, mystery and suspense to keep you turning the pages. I loved everything about this book and highly recommend it and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
His Delightful Lady Delia is a delightful finale of the American Royalty series by Grace Hitchcock. I have enjoyed this series immensely!
While this book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading My Dear Miss Dupre, the first book in the series, before you begin this one, as you will miss a considerable backstory related to the main character, Kit Quincy. While not necessary, I felt the knowledge I had of Kit because of the first novel added to my enjoyment.
I enjoyed the characters and the love story. The faith element was just enough that it wasn't preachy. While I figured out who the phantom was early on, it still kept me reading to see how it all played out.
You will probably love His Delightful Lady Delia if you enjoy historical romance.
I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley for my honest opinion.
For the past five years, Delia Vittoria has practiced hours upon end to prepare for the day she could take the lead role in an Academy of Music’s opera performance. Delia, as her understudy, has her chance to shine when her mother loses her voice.
In her debut moment, Delia captures the imagination of the opera-loving world. Her beautiful voice and deep emotion bring the character she plays to life. All the pain of her childhood and rejection by her father fuel the pathos of her performance.
But how does a daughter find a place to shine if it means displacing her diva mother?
Kit Quincy loves opera and never misses opening night. But when his sister sends an urgent message to him during the first act, he leaves before the diva’s understudy makes her way onstage. Kit’s sister wants Kit to go to his mistress’s house and bring her husband home.
When he knocks on Lady Vittoria’s door, Kit mistakes Delia for her mother and accuses her of wrecking homes and having loose morals. He vows to do whatever it takes to earn the lady’s forgiveness when he realizes his mistake.
On their own, Delia and Kit may never have crossed paths again. But the scheming patronesses of the Academy of Music devise a plot to revive the Phantom, boost Delia’s career, and save the Academy from its upstart rival, the Metropolitan Opera House.
Delia and Kit reenact scenes from long ago when a phantom wooed Delia’s mother and secured her place as a diva. Each encounter makes Delia trust Kit more. She struggles to remind herself it is all an act.
But is it? When a second phantom swoops onto the scene, Delia’s life seems endangered, and Kit vows to keep her safe.
Why I Loved This Book
Grace Hitchcock brings to life the early history of opera during New York City’s Gilded Age when money and a good family meant everything. Kit Quincy has both. Delia has a divorced mother who harbors secrets and tells half-truths. Can two unlikely heroes fall in love with each?
Readers can enjoy His Delightful Lady Delia as a standalone novel, or they can read the first two books in the American Royalty series. Kit Quincy, a confirmed bachelor who entered the competition for Willow Dupré’s hand in marriage, discovers love hasn’t passed him by. Delia learns to trust God’s plan for her life—even if the plan involves marriage.
Humor, romance, and a touch of melodrama keep the reader engaged through the last page.
Rounded up from 2.5. I wanted to like this book, but between the blatant use of another person’s previous work and the liberal scripture quotes, it doesn’t work. I think it’s deceitful to publish what is clearly religious fiction without labeling it as such. Some of the scenes between the protagonists were pleasant to read, as was some of the description, but the heavy handed religion was a major turn-off.
I thought that this book was a fun look into the time period and the life of a opera singer. Phantom of the Opera is one of my favorite musicals, so I enjoyed the nod to the story as well. This is an enjoyable book to pick up and read!