Now Face to Face
by Karleen Koen

This is an extraordinary sequel to Through a Glass Darkly, continuing Barbara Devane’s story as she makes a new life in Virginia, yet cannot let go of her past in England. The first part of the story is vividly detailed, from growing crops to slave trade. Barbara becomes quite a heroine, making many valuable friends and connections. The author continues her beautiful writing style, including rhymes, verses and past conversations into the character’s thoughts. I love these characters, so much so that I cannot believe that this is the end of their story. I do hope that another book is being written, but there is no hint of it on the author’s website. Through a Glass Darkly and Now Face to Face are among my favorite books now!

If you have read this book, I have more thoughts. Warning: spoilers if you click the link!

As I stated before, I love the characters and writing style of this book and the one before it. However the ending seemed rushed and didn’t tie up loose ends. Furthermore, it focused on Gussy and Jane, which I thought was a bit unfair. I wanted to know more of Barbara’s future. If there is another book to come, I will be the first in line to buy it! Here are a few things I would like to see elaborated on:

*We are told of future events through the Duchess’ dream. How accurate was her description?

*How and why did Barbara decide to go to France and marry Duncannon? The King and Prince of Wales would surely not allow her back to England after she marries a ‘gosling’. She would not be able to see her family anymore, including her new brother.

*What of Diana? Who claims her child and does Charles get out of prison?

*What happens to Devane Square and the land in Virginia? I always thought Barbara would go back because she seemed so happy there. Does Perry go back? He seems to have made a happy set of friends in England.

*What’s Tony’s problem? He became so unnecessarily bitter.

*Tony’s sister, Fanny, was absent in this book. Where were she and her husband?

*What happens with Perry’s daughter and her suitors?

I would like to see Theresa and Hyacinthe reunited with Barbara. It was such a heartbreak, and to know he was alive would have brought her the greatest joy and less resentment of the plantation. I liked Lawrence Slane (Duncannon) throughout the story — he seemed of such a compassionate and empathetic nature, but mixed with his disregarding of the laws of England (through his loyalty to the Pretender) I do not think him a good match for Barbara. She must have had to give up a great deal for him.

These are my thoughts on this wonderful series and I do hope to see a third book published. I’ve read Dark Angels but that alone won’t satiate me.