Status
Available
Call number
Series
Publication
Harlequin (2003), Edition: Reprint, Mass Market Paperback, 416 pages
Description
Set in the Georgian period, about 20 years before the Regency, These Old Shades is considered to be the novel that launched Heyer's career. It features two of Heyer's most memorable characters: Justin Alastair, the Duke of Avon, and Leonie, whom he rescues from a life of ignomy and comes to love and marry. The Duke is known for his coldness of manner, his remarkable omniscience, and his debauched lifestyle. Late one evening, he is accosted by a young person dressed in ragged boy's clothing running away from a brutal rustic guardian. The Duke buys "Leon" and makes the child his page. "Leon" is in fact Leonie, and she serves the Duke with deep devotion. When he uncovers the true story of her birth, he wreaks an unforgettable revenge on her sinister father in a chilling scene of public humiliation. Praise for Georgette Heyer: "Our Georgette Heyer display of the Sourcebooks reprints has been a huge success, not only to those early fans like myself, but to many new readers who appreciate her style and wit." --Nancy Olson, Quail Ridge Books, Raleigh, NC "Reading Georgette Heyer is the next best thing to reading Jane Austen." --Publishers Weekly "Wonderful characters, elegant, witty writing, perfect period detail, and rapturously romantic. Georgette Heyer achieves what the rest of us only aspire to." --Katie Fforde "Absolute monarch of the Regency romance." --Kirkus Reviews… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member lauralkeet
Justin Alastair, Duke of Avon, is a rake if there ever was one. Men fear him; respectable women will have nothing to do with him. He spends most of his time in the gambling houses of Paris, leaving his sister Fanny in charge of his English estate. One night he encounters a young boy on the run from
Léon is, in fact, Léonie: a girl. And Léonie is the daughter of Avon's greatest enemy. Set in France during the reign of Louis XV, the story is filled with rich detail of the period's "Polite Society." Avon's first task was to train Léonie in the role and manners of a young lady. Even as Avon set these wheels in motion, he was also plotting revenge against his enemy. What follows is an amusing romp through the English and French countryside, filled with rich imagery and intrigue.
However, Avon didn't expect the affectionate feelings that developed between him and Léonie. He suppressed these feelings, because he was so much older than she, and was unaccustomed to caring for another person. Heyer surrounded Léonie with so many eligible bachelors, keeping the reader guessing almost to the end. In some ways, this story was predictable: justice was dealt to the bad guys, and at least a couple of people lived happily ever after. But somehow the predictability didn't matter to me. I just sat back and enjoyed the ride.
Show More
his employer, and makes an impulsive decision to buy the boy to serve as his page. Avon had a hunch he could use Léon to his advantage. Léon is grateful, and completely unaware of any ulterior motives. Avon's friends are mystified by this sudden turn of events. Avon remains secretive, but gradually the reader is let in on the details.Léon is, in fact, Léonie: a girl. And Léonie is the daughter of Avon's greatest enemy. Set in France during the reign of Louis XV, the story is filled with rich detail of the period's "Polite Society." Avon's first task was to train Léonie in the role and manners of a young lady. Even as Avon set these wheels in motion, he was also plotting revenge against his enemy. What follows is an amusing romp through the English and French countryside, filled with rich imagery and intrigue.
However, Avon didn't expect the affectionate feelings that developed between him and Léonie. He suppressed these feelings, because he was so much older than she, and was unaccustomed to caring for another person. Heyer surrounded Léonie with so many eligible bachelors, keeping the reader guessing almost to the end. In some ways, this story was predictable: justice was dealt to the bad guys, and at least a couple of people lived happily ever after. But somehow the predictability didn't matter to me. I just sat back and enjoyed the ride.
Show Less
LibraryThing member AdonisGuilfoyle
Enid Blyton meets PG Wodehouse; all very frothy and silly, but a smattering of historical slang does not a satisfying story make. Leon/Leonie is a typical Heyer-oine, delighting the hero and all secondary characters with the force of her desire to act like a boy (this theory that a heroine must
The plot volleys between the France of King Louis XV and Georgian England, but the only real difference is the increase of bad accents and a change of titles. Nobility of birth is all, personality is nil; men are men, despite addressing each other as 'beloved' and carrying fans, but being a woman merely gets in the way of a good Adventure. The dialogue, usually the best feature of Heyer's writing, is drawn-out and repetitive in this novel - if the 'banter' and exposition were trimmed, this book could be a hundred pages shorter - and certain words and phrases are over-used ('twinkling' eyes, 'desolated' men, that unattractive 'gurgle' of the more mature women, and a smattering of schoolgirl French).
A weak novel, unfortunately bought in tandem with its sequel, 'Devil's Cub' - but a recovery might be in order before crawling on hands and knees to meet Leonie again!
Show More
mask or deny her gender to be regarded as 'equal' to the men is popular with Heyer); a tedious caricature who speaks in stunted sentences peppered with French, to show that she is foreign ("Ah, bah! Monsieur, he is a pig-person - voila!") The Duke of Avon - given the preposterous and anachronistic first name of Justin, which I chose to mentally replace with his family name, Alastair - was a promising hero, a dark and brooding Sir Percy Blakeney with a Reputation, until Heyer chose to iron out his personality and make him a safe and aging suitor - tamed by this supposedly 'original' young woman in his care. And Avon's relationship with Leon/Leonie was disturbing throughout - an aging roue buying a young lad as his 'page', the cringing dependency of a whiny and obsequious 'ward' who sits at her master's feet, and then the suggestion that this is the basis for a successful marriage? Not to mention the irony that 'high-born' Leonie is considered a very forward young woman who will bow to no man's will - put her in a frock and the 'hoydenish' behaviour is replaced by a submissive, simpering, tearful milksop! The contradiction in terms of a Heyer hoyden is not unique to this story, however.The plot volleys between the France of King Louis XV and Georgian England, but the only real difference is the increase of bad accents and a change of titles. Nobility of birth is all, personality is nil; men are men, despite addressing each other as 'beloved' and carrying fans, but being a woman merely gets in the way of a good Adventure. The dialogue, usually the best feature of Heyer's writing, is drawn-out and repetitive in this novel - if the 'banter' and exposition were trimmed, this book could be a hundred pages shorter - and certain words and phrases are over-used ('twinkling' eyes, 'desolated' men, that unattractive 'gurgle' of the more mature women, and a smattering of schoolgirl French).
A weak novel, unfortunately bought in tandem with its sequel, 'Devil's Cub' - but a recovery might be in order before crawling on hands and knees to meet Leonie again!
Show Less
LibraryThing member Cynara
This is a book I relish page by page. My second reading was a particular joy, because I had finally figured out the large cast, and could sit back and enjoy the delicate machinations and dry wit.
Heyer rejoices in her period details, and so do I. Oh, for the days when dangerous men wore red high
On the other hand, Heyer's insistence on the importance of bloodlines in determining a person's character is weird and jarring; I would expect it of her characters, but not of a 20th century author. It's something she portrays as objective fact, not as a common perception of the time. Somehow, this doesn't seriously affect my enjoyment of the book, though I wouldn't argue with anyone who found it insurmountable.
Never mind exactly where the plot's going. Heyer knows precisely who her characters are; she's confident with their reactions and voices from the first page, and she loves to put them into a situation and let them go. It feels like she's been writing them for years.
"These Old Shades" is a marvellous variation on the reformed-roué tale. Leon/ie is a piquant character, not another 'fiery red-headed' heroine, and the Duke is, in my opinion, a unique and delicately drawn rake - a mature man who is surprised by his own development, but navigates it with grace and dignity. (Unlike another reformed rake, Brontë's Rochester, Avon never allows himself the luxury of self-deception). The romance is subtle, restrained, and deeply felt. By the climactic scene, I was involved with the characters, and was touched by their role reversal.
Heyer rejoices in her period details, and so do I. Oh, for the days when dangerous men wore red high
Show More
heels, diamanté buckles, powdered wigs, flowered pink satin, and flourished their fans. It was the last European era where men dressed as flamboyantly as women; the last time macho men wore rouge and diamonds. I only wonder how many hands they had. Heyer's characters are forever carrying scented handkerchiefs, snuff-boxes, bouquets, walking sticks, quizzing-glasses and fans; then, they pick up glasses of wine. Where do they keep it all? She was punctilious about getting slang and turns of phrase just right, and she gives a convincing portrayal of the morals and feelings of the time.On the other hand, Heyer's insistence on the importance of bloodlines in determining a person's character is weird and jarring; I would expect it of her characters, but not of a 20th century author. It's something she portrays as objective fact, not as a common perception of the time. Somehow, this doesn't seriously affect my enjoyment of the book, though I wouldn't argue with anyone who found it insurmountable.
Never mind exactly where the plot's going. Heyer knows precisely who her characters are; she's confident with their reactions and voices from the first page, and she loves to put them into a situation and let them go. It feels like she's been writing them for years.
"These Old Shades" is a marvellous variation on the reformed-roué tale. Leon/ie is a piquant character, not another 'fiery red-headed' heroine, and the Duke is, in my opinion, a unique and delicately drawn rake - a mature man who is surprised by his own development, but navigates it with grace and dignity. (Unlike another reformed rake, Brontë's Rochester, Avon never allows himself the luxury of self-deception). The romance is subtle, restrained, and deeply felt. By the climactic scene, I was involved with the characters, and was touched by their role reversal.
Show Less
LibraryThing member AbigailAdams26
One of Georgette Heyer's most popular novels, These Old Shades is a Georgian romantic-adventure-novel, and the first in a series of three titles devoted to the affairs of the Alastair family. It follows the story of Justin Alastair, the Duke of Avon, dubbed "Satanas" as a result of his many
Reading These Old Shades is a bit like chewing on crushed glass - quite painful, and attended by the knowledge that it cannot be good for me. If I were not so intent on reading Heyer's entire ouevre as part of a project, I might have spared myself the discomfort. Set it down to my neat soul, or a completist nature. However that may be, my long-standing distaste at this work is mostly unchanged, with a few grudging caveats.
I am aware that many readers perceive in this novel a story of redemption, and I am constrained to acknowledge, after this re-reading, that Avon does indeed allow love to soften him somewhat (one of the aforementioned caveats). But though I came to believe in the sincerity of his regard for Leonie, I found him such a hideously vile "hero" otherwise - cold, manipulative and hypocritical - that I remained indifferent, much as I would if informed that some horrible mass-murderer had a secret fondness for puppies. Puppies are lovely (I have a soft spot for them myself), but let's keep our gaze focused on all those mutilated bodies, if you please...
Avon demonstrates an inhumanity that I find hard to forgive, particularly in a romantic hero. His behavior towards women is exploitative and contemptuous, and I found myself thinking of him as a likely rapist. I realize that this might seem far-fetched to some, as it is never mentioned in the text (this is Heyer, after all), but I think it safe to assume that an eighteenth-century aristocrat who wouldn't hesitate to abduct a "lady," and who has such a reputation for debauchery, has probably used coercion with women of lower economic classes. His stricter standards, as regards his own sister, and eventually Leonie, thus struck me as arising from a hypocritical double-standard, rather than any honorable impulse.
Avon displays a virulent kind of class hatred that, while perhaps not surprising in a character of his time and background, was still grating to witness. In this schema, class is not a question of upbringing, but of blood. It is innate - nature rather than nurture. Thus the peasant boy who is foisted upon society as the Comte's son is discontented and dull-witted, and longs only for a farm, while the aristocratic girl raised by peasants is all delicate sensitivity - a diamond in the rough. The scene, early in the novel, in which they are compared, had almost the flavor of racism to it, as if he were an "animal" and she a "person."
While perhaps not as contemptible as Avon, the "heroine" of the piece is more irritating than charming, displaying exactly the kind of "my man can do no wrong" attitude that I find so obnoxious. Anyone placed, as Leonie was, in a position to observe the worst of human behavior, could not be unaware of the suffering that must accompany it, and her indifference to Avon's past cruelties seems incredible. Perhaps we are meant to believe that she is so grateful at being rescued from a life of misery, that she has abandoned all independent thought, as concerns the matter? How charming...
I have been taken to task by my fellow readers before, both for imposing my modern views on characters meant to be historical creations, and for reading too much social meaning into works that are meant, at most, to entertain the reader. I suppose my response would be that there is quite a bit of ugliness in These Old Shades, and however "appropriate" the attitudes and behaviors depicted may have been for characters of that time and place, they do NOT entertain me. If that is what Georgette Heyer meant to do, than regrettably, she has failed...
Show More
scandalous and unworthy deeds. When Avon "rescues" the red-headed "Leon/Leonie" from the streets of Paris, it is with the intention of using him/her in a game of revenge against his old enemy, the Comte de Saint-Vire. But even the devil can fall in love, and soon the Duke has another goal in sight...Reading These Old Shades is a bit like chewing on crushed glass - quite painful, and attended by the knowledge that it cannot be good for me. If I were not so intent on reading Heyer's entire ouevre as part of a project, I might have spared myself the discomfort. Set it down to my neat soul, or a completist nature. However that may be, my long-standing distaste at this work is mostly unchanged, with a few grudging caveats.
I am aware that many readers perceive in this novel a story of redemption, and I am constrained to acknowledge, after this re-reading, that Avon does indeed allow love to soften him somewhat (one of the aforementioned caveats). But though I came to believe in the sincerity of his regard for Leonie, I found him such a hideously vile "hero" otherwise - cold, manipulative and hypocritical - that I remained indifferent, much as I would if informed that some horrible mass-murderer had a secret fondness for puppies. Puppies are lovely (I have a soft spot for them myself), but let's keep our gaze focused on all those mutilated bodies, if you please...
Avon demonstrates an inhumanity that I find hard to forgive, particularly in a romantic hero. His behavior towards women is exploitative and contemptuous, and I found myself thinking of him as a likely rapist. I realize that this might seem far-fetched to some, as it is never mentioned in the text (this is Heyer, after all), but I think it safe to assume that an eighteenth-century aristocrat who wouldn't hesitate to abduct a "lady," and who has such a reputation for debauchery, has probably used coercion with women of lower economic classes. His stricter standards, as regards his own sister, and eventually Leonie, thus struck me as arising from a hypocritical double-standard, rather than any honorable impulse.
Avon displays a virulent kind of class hatred that, while perhaps not surprising in a character of his time and background, was still grating to witness. In this schema, class is not a question of upbringing, but of blood. It is innate - nature rather than nurture. Thus the peasant boy who is foisted upon society as the Comte's son is discontented and dull-witted, and longs only for a farm, while the aristocratic girl raised by peasants is all delicate sensitivity - a diamond in the rough. The scene, early in the novel, in which they are compared, had almost the flavor of racism to it, as if he were an "animal" and she a "person."
While perhaps not as contemptible as Avon, the "heroine" of the piece is more irritating than charming, displaying exactly the kind of "my man can do no wrong" attitude that I find so obnoxious. Anyone placed, as Leonie was, in a position to observe the worst of human behavior, could not be unaware of the suffering that must accompany it, and her indifference to Avon's past cruelties seems incredible. Perhaps we are meant to believe that she is so grateful at being rescued from a life of misery, that she has abandoned all independent thought, as concerns the matter? How charming...
I have been taken to task by my fellow readers before, both for imposing my modern views on characters meant to be historical creations, and for reading too much social meaning into works that are meant, at most, to entertain the reader. I suppose my response would be that there is quite a bit of ugliness in These Old Shades, and however "appropriate" the attitudes and behaviors depicted may have been for characters of that time and place, they do NOT entertain me. If that is what Georgette Heyer meant to do, than regrettably, she has failed...
Show Less
LibraryThing member trinityofone
Most people I've talked to either love or at least rather like this book, but it seems it's my turn to feel all "bwah?" and left out, as Punk does with "The Dreyfus Affair" and Siria does with "Swordspoint." I hated it. I despised pretty much all the characters, other than Hugh and Rupert—Leonie
Show More
was irritating, and Avon was just creepy. I know he was supposed to be "Satanas"—the devil of a man who isn't really that bad, but I found him neither enjoyably naughty nor charming; he was just kind of slimy. The idea of him and Leonie being together really skeeved me out, not because of the age difference—I actually *like* an age difference, when it's done well—but because of the power dynamic, I guess. All the power was Avon's, both practically and emotionally, and throughout the whole book Leonie was worshipful of him and he condescending towards her. Ew. I also didn't see the slash at all; Hugh was one of the few nice characters, as I said, so I guess it could be construed that he put up with Avon because he was in love with him, but Avon didn't seem particularly gay to me—he was just an 18th Century dude who lived in France and was a bit of a vain ass. The overall package was not appealing, and neither was this book, which is too bad, because I really enjoyed the only other Heyer I've read, "The Masqueraders." Show Less
LibraryThing member runaway84
Georgette Heyer outdid herself with this one. This is going in my top five for sure! The whole girl disguising herself as a boy thing always had me intrigued, Heyer added humor and BAM! A hilarious romp.
The Duke of Avon is strolling home one night and happens upon a ragamuffin fleeing from their
As usual, I enjoyed the side characters more so than the main. Rupert had me cracking up every time he spoke and I just loved Fanny's silliness. Of course, I just loved Leonie, as well. She was a very outspoken heroine, not at all the norm.
When a Heyer novel makes me grin like a silly person without realizing it, than it is definitely a keeper! These Old Shades is a true Heyer classic! On to Devil's Cub!
The Duke of Avon is strolling home one night and happens upon a ragamuffin fleeing from their
Show More
nasty guardian. The Duke buys Leon and makes him his page and soon figures out that Leon is actually Leonie and that a mystery surrounds her.As usual, I enjoyed the side characters more so than the main. Rupert had me cracking up every time he spoke and I just loved Fanny's silliness. Of course, I just loved Leonie, as well. She was a very outspoken heroine, not at all the norm.
When a Heyer novel makes me grin like a silly person without realizing it, than it is definitely a keeper! These Old Shades is a true Heyer classic! On to Devil's Cub!
Show Less
LibraryThing member lycomayflower
Light, diverting, and fun. Better in the first and last thirds than in the middle, where the heroine's childlike innocence became a bit wearing. And the end, where the villain is finally dispensed with, is absolutely delicious.
LibraryThing member riverwillow
This is my ultimate comfort read, and, heresy that this may be to some, is far more satisfying, and better for you, than a box of chocolates. I haven't yet read a Georgette Heyer novel that hasn't had fully realised characters, interesting plots, fully realised characters and sparkling, witty
Show More
dialogue. This one is a classic, with reason, and is just sheer bliss from start to finish. I don't want to give the plot away, but Heyer transcends and transforms the conventions of romantic fiction and produces a scintillating and exciting novel. Try one. If you don't believe me fans such as A.S. Byatt, Margaret Drabble and Stephen Fry (yes really!) can't be wrong. Show Less
LibraryThing member LyzzyBee
(12 Dec 2011 – leaving gift from Heather)
One that I didn’t remember all that well, but then the plots of the Heyer Regency Romances are fairly similar in many respects. Delicious as ever, with cross-dressing and people recognised by their hair galore – you know how it’s going to come out,
On rereading: I know jolly well that I read all of Heyer in lovely hardbacks with mint green covers from my school and village library in my early to mid teens (did everybody have a wild urge to read SETS of books then? I worked my way through all the Heyers, all the Agatha Christies, all the James Bond books, all the Tanith Lees …) and so even if I didn’t remember the details of the plot, it was a comfortable book to sink back into.
One that I didn’t remember all that well, but then the plots of the Heyer Regency Romances are fairly similar in many respects. Delicious as ever, with cross-dressing and people recognised by their hair galore – you know how it’s going to come out,
Show More
but it’s great fun getting there. And even though she is ruffled and called “Infant” a great deal by a man twice her age, we have a lovely feisty heroine who is plucked from obscurity and poverty at the whim of an English Duke and set on a path to fame and fortune, as well as great supporting characters who are just as lively and beautifully drawn. Beautifully drawn, too, are the period details of dress and personalities, including the French King himself: reading this, you’re in for a well-researched extravaganza of quality escapism.On rereading: I know jolly well that I read all of Heyer in lovely hardbacks with mint green covers from my school and village library in my early to mid teens (did everybody have a wild urge to read SETS of books then? I worked my way through all the Heyers, all the Agatha Christies, all the James Bond books, all the Tanith Lees …) and so even if I didn’t remember the details of the plot, it was a comfortable book to sink back into.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Denise701
It's my favorite book of Heyer's. I love the characters--they are nuanced and unusual. In a way, as a modern woman, I feel that I shouldn't like this book as much as I do: Avon's manipulative and controlling, and Leonie is far too adoring of him. But on the other hand, these aren't supposed to be
Show More
modern characters, and Heyer does a very good job of engaging our emotions very quickly. Justin and Leonie are both lonely and loners, and despite their age difference (which wouldn't have made much difference in the Georgian period), they are quite similar in their determination and sense of honor. I admire Leonie's fire and Justin's sense of justice. Show Less
LibraryThing member scoutmomskf
This is one of my favorite Georgette Heyer books, and I was long overdue for a reread. Justin, Duke of Avon, and Leon/Leonie are two of the most enjoyable characters I have ever read. The duke is a notorious rake, arrogant, condescending, and seemingly obsessed with his appearance. His
Leon is young, innocent, but not naïve. He has seen a lot in his nineteen years and knows that he has gotten very lucky. His adoration of the duke is immediate and all-encompassing, and it seems that he will do anything that Justin asks of him. There is also a streak of rebelliousness, as shown by his tendency to question Justin's dictates when they don't suit him. He also has a volatile temper, which makes its appearance when anyone has the temerity to bad-mouth the duke.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the book, as Leon settled into his role as a page. We get a hint that Justin is using him as some sort of revenge against his long-time enemy St. Vire, and small pieces of the plot are slowly revealed. It was fascinating to see Justin's cool and calculating actions as he put his plans in place. It was fun to see the changes in Leon - as he gets more comfortable, he seems to enjoy tweaking Justin's cool exterior. I liked seeing Justin's surprise, and then amusement at Leon's temerity. There were plenty of amusing moments involving Leon's opinions on what he sees. I especially enjoyed the trip to Versailles. But not everything is as it seems, and Leon is keeping a rather big secret - or so he thinks. I loved the confrontation between Justin and his friend Hugh, as the truth about Leon comes out between the two. I liked Hugh's protectiveness, even though it wasn't really needed.
The second part of the book, after Justin reveals to her that he's known all along that Leon is really Leonie, was even more fun to read. Leonie's disgust at Justin's plans to turn her back into a girl was hilarious, as was her attempt to bargain her cooperation for lessons in swordplay. I thoroughly enjoyed his sister Fanny's amazement at Justin's plans. She was, as Leonie said, rather "silly" but she had a kind and generous heart, and I loved the way she took to Leonie. I ached a little for Leonie as Justin left her in the country with her chaperone. She was a little bit lost and lonely without her " Monseigneur," at least until Justin's younger brother Rupert showed up. The two of them were quite the pair with their teasing and arguing. Leonie liked nothing better than getting a rise out of him, and she was very good at it.
Justin's actions have begun to bear fruit, and the unexpected appearance of St. Vire in England portends trouble. Even though I've read the book before, I was still on the edge of my seat when he kidnapped Leonie and made off with her. Rupert was hilarious in his role of white knight. I was a bit disappointed in Justin's first reaction to their disappearance, but he made up for it quite well when he discovered the truth. The complexity of Justin's machinations continued once they arrive back in Paris. Leonie clearly enjoys all the hoopla, and I loved her reactions to the various people she met. It's pretty obvious that she compares them all to her " Monseigneur " and most of them do not fare well in the comparison. As always, I was captivated by the sheer audacity of Justin's plans. I ached for Leonie when she heard the rumors and confronted St. Vire. Her love for Justin was quite clear and drove her to take the actions she did. I could feel Justin's pain and anger, and the bone-deep need to bring St. Vire to justice. The confrontation was masterfully done, and I loved how Justin had everyone spellbound as he carried it out. I also loved how all of their friends had important parts to play.
The scene between Leonie and Justin when he went after her was heart-wrenching and romantic. Throughout the book, Justin gradually changed from the cold, selfish man he used to be, to one who could show the love he felt. But though he admitted his feelings, he insists that he is too old and too steeped in scandal for her. I loved that Leonie still refused to hear a word against him - even from himself. These words said it best:
"Léonie, you will do well to consider. You are not the first woman in my life."
She smiled through her tears. "Monseigneur, I would so much rather be the last woman than the first,” she said.”
and
”His Grace looked deep into her eyes, and then went down on one knee, and raised her hand to his lips.
‘Little one,’ he said, very low, ‘since you will stoop to wed me, I pledge you my word that you shall not in the future have cause to regret it."
The secondary characters are great. There is Hugh Davenant, who plays the part of Justin's conscience. Justin's slightly flighty, but loving sister Fanny and her slightly stick-in-the-muddish husband, who come through when they are needed in France. Cousin Harriet, who played the part of instructor and chaperone, but in the end couldn't handle Leonie's unconventional personality. Justin's brother Rupert who is something of a comic foil, but also shows Justin's emotional growth thanks to Leonie. Lord and Lady Merivale, who have every reason to hate Justin, but again, are reconciled with him thanks to Leonie. Paris itself was another character, with the vividness of its world, from the streets to its glittering ballrooms to the colorful people who populated it.
There are a lot of people who find the age difference between Justin and Leonie (20 years) rather creepy, along with his seemingly patronizing attitude toward her. The age difference wasn't all that unusual for the time period, plus I felt that though Leonie was young in years, her soul was older thanks to the life she had lived. I also got the feeling that Justin's frequent use of "infant" and "my child" was his attempt to keep an emotional distance from her. It didn't work. I enjoyed seeing the reactions of each of their friends as they realized that Justin was in love with her.
Show More
conversations are laced with insults and sarcasm. But he is also good to his friends and family, though he hides it well behind snarky comments at the same time. In the opening scene, he impetuously saves a young urchin from the clutches of the boy's older brother and decides to make him a page. It's clear that Justin has a plan, but keeps it a closely guarded secret.Leon is young, innocent, but not naïve. He has seen a lot in his nineteen years and knows that he has gotten very lucky. His adoration of the duke is immediate and all-encompassing, and it seems that he will do anything that Justin asks of him. There is also a streak of rebelliousness, as shown by his tendency to question Justin's dictates when they don't suit him. He also has a volatile temper, which makes its appearance when anyone has the temerity to bad-mouth the duke.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the book, as Leon settled into his role as a page. We get a hint that Justin is using him as some sort of revenge against his long-time enemy St. Vire, and small pieces of the plot are slowly revealed. It was fascinating to see Justin's cool and calculating actions as he put his plans in place. It was fun to see the changes in Leon - as he gets more comfortable, he seems to enjoy tweaking Justin's cool exterior. I liked seeing Justin's surprise, and then amusement at Leon's temerity. There were plenty of amusing moments involving Leon's opinions on what he sees. I especially enjoyed the trip to Versailles. But not everything is as it seems, and Leon is keeping a rather big secret - or so he thinks. I loved the confrontation between Justin and his friend Hugh, as the truth about Leon comes out between the two. I liked Hugh's protectiveness, even though it wasn't really needed.
The second part of the book, after Justin reveals to her that he's known all along that Leon is really Leonie, was even more fun to read. Leonie's disgust at Justin's plans to turn her back into a girl was hilarious, as was her attempt to bargain her cooperation for lessons in swordplay. I thoroughly enjoyed his sister Fanny's amazement at Justin's plans. She was, as Leonie said, rather "silly" but she had a kind and generous heart, and I loved the way she took to Leonie. I ached a little for Leonie as Justin left her in the country with her chaperone. She was a little bit lost and lonely without her " Monseigneur," at least until Justin's younger brother Rupert showed up. The two of them were quite the pair with their teasing and arguing. Leonie liked nothing better than getting a rise out of him, and she was very good at it.
Justin's actions have begun to bear fruit, and the unexpected appearance of St. Vire in England portends trouble. Even though I've read the book before, I was still on the edge of my seat when he kidnapped Leonie and made off with her. Rupert was hilarious in his role of white knight. I was a bit disappointed in Justin's first reaction to their disappearance, but he made up for it quite well when he discovered the truth. The complexity of Justin's machinations continued once they arrive back in Paris. Leonie clearly enjoys all the hoopla, and I loved her reactions to the various people she met. It's pretty obvious that she compares them all to her " Monseigneur " and most of them do not fare well in the comparison. As always, I was captivated by the sheer audacity of Justin's plans. I ached for Leonie when she heard the rumors and confronted St. Vire. Her love for Justin was quite clear and drove her to take the actions she did. I could feel Justin's pain and anger, and the bone-deep need to bring St. Vire to justice. The confrontation was masterfully done, and I loved how Justin had everyone spellbound as he carried it out. I also loved how all of their friends had important parts to play.
The scene between Leonie and Justin when he went after her was heart-wrenching and romantic. Throughout the book, Justin gradually changed from the cold, selfish man he used to be, to one who could show the love he felt. But though he admitted his feelings, he insists that he is too old and too steeped in scandal for her. I loved that Leonie still refused to hear a word against him - even from himself. These words said it best:
"Léonie, you will do well to consider. You are not the first woman in my life."
She smiled through her tears. "Monseigneur, I would so much rather be the last woman than the first,” she said.”
and
”His Grace looked deep into her eyes, and then went down on one knee, and raised her hand to his lips.
‘Little one,’ he said, very low, ‘since you will stoop to wed me, I pledge you my word that you shall not in the future have cause to regret it."
The secondary characters are great. There is Hugh Davenant, who plays the part of Justin's conscience. Justin's slightly flighty, but loving sister Fanny and her slightly stick-in-the-muddish husband, who come through when they are needed in France. Cousin Harriet, who played the part of instructor and chaperone, but in the end couldn't handle Leonie's unconventional personality. Justin's brother Rupert who is something of a comic foil, but also shows Justin's emotional growth thanks to Leonie. Lord and Lady Merivale, who have every reason to hate Justin, but again, are reconciled with him thanks to Leonie. Paris itself was another character, with the vividness of its world, from the streets to its glittering ballrooms to the colorful people who populated it.
There are a lot of people who find the age difference between Justin and Leonie (20 years) rather creepy, along with his seemingly patronizing attitude toward her. The age difference wasn't all that unusual for the time period, plus I felt that though Leonie was young in years, her soul was older thanks to the life she had lived. I also got the feeling that Justin's frequent use of "infant" and "my child" was his attempt to keep an emotional distance from her. It didn't work. I enjoyed seeing the reactions of each of their friends as they realized that Justin was in love with her.
Show Less
LibraryThing member majkia
It’s a typical Parisian night as Satan walks down a dark and dirty street. Suddenly an urchin lurches out of an alleyway and plows into him. He thinks he’s a target for a robbery, but instead finds himself grasping a quite remarkable young man.
A plot forms in his head immediately and when the
Thus begins a tale of a rogue who plays the deep game and whose morals are non-existent. Or are they?
I do love a good rogue, and Alastair is definitely that!
Lots of fun and color and intrigue.
A plot forms in his head immediately and when the
Show More
urchin’s pursuer shows up, he buys the urchin. Thus begins a tale of a rogue who plays the deep game and whose morals are non-existent. Or are they?
I do love a good rogue, and Alastair is definitely that!
Lots of fun and color and intrigue.
Show Less
LibraryThing member thatotter
Rather plotty for a Heyer novel. Kinda twisted, but undeniably entertaining.
I see people all over the internet freakin' out about the depravity Justin "Satanas" Alistair, but to me he really didn't seem all that dastardly. I mean, the 1750s were crazy times. I think.
You know what was weird washow
I see people all over the internet freakin' out about the depravity Justin "Satanas" Alistair, but to me he really didn't seem all that dastardly. I mean, the 1750s were crazy times. I think.
You know what was weird was
Show More
the peasant-born, aristocrat-raised child had these deep innate longings to be a farmer, whereas his counterpart was somehow magically delicate and graceful and whatever. That was oddly convenient. Show Less
LibraryThing member exlibrisbitsy
I admit it, I have a bit of a kink when it comes to girls masquerading as guys and managing to pull it off. Especially during times when, historically, it was believed that women were incapable of even a fraction of what men were capable of. To shed the dress and don some breeches and go about the
I have loved all of Georgette Heyer's gender benders, The Corinthian, The Masqueraders and now I can add These Old Shades to the line up. Her historical novels are so filled with period detail you feel like you really are in the century she is portraying. While it may be a stretch to believe that such characters as the Duke and Leonie can manage to pull off their very scandalous story then just remember it is France from before the time of Napoleon. The dissatisfied lower classes had to become dissatisfied somehow and some of the upper crust's hi-jinks definitely contributed to that.
Speaking of class differences that was one of the only problems I had with this story. The classism displayed by the characters, while accurate for the time, in some ways I think went a bit too far. The Duke loves Leonie and at the same time expresses disgust and distaste for the people in the class she was raised in. There was some character development as well that made the characters themselves reflect the very traits that distinguish them as being a commoner or a noble even in situations where it would be far fetched to believe it. In the nature versus nurture argument These Old Shades falls firmly on the side of nature and I can't say any more or will risk spoiling it.
Georgette Heyer makes you fall in love with her characters even if they really don't deserve it. Whether it is a debauched rake who is addressed as Satan (and rightfully so) on a number of occasions, or a headstrong girl who thinks little of everyone save for her savior the Duke Heyer will make them lovable and you will care what happens to them even if you don't agree with them, their ideals, or their lifestyle choices. The romance turned out to be very sweet and left me wondering what will happen to them down the road. Thankfully I don't have to wonder long because this is the first in a trilogy. Next is Devil's Cub followed by An Infamous Army each taking place generations later. I look forward to it!
Show More
country side takes moxie and young Leon, er, Leonie has that in spades. Her story is wildly entertaining to read about and yet Georgette Heyer manages to kick it up another notch by adding in court intrigue, a debauched rake, and an ancient score that needs to be settled. Little Leonie finds herself in the middle of a whirlwind of scandal and only with the help of her savior, the Duke, does she have a chance to survive.I have loved all of Georgette Heyer's gender benders, The Corinthian, The Masqueraders and now I can add These Old Shades to the line up. Her historical novels are so filled with period detail you feel like you really are in the century she is portraying. While it may be a stretch to believe that such characters as the Duke and Leonie can manage to pull off their very scandalous story then just remember it is France from before the time of Napoleon. The dissatisfied lower classes had to become dissatisfied somehow and some of the upper crust's hi-jinks definitely contributed to that.
Speaking of class differences that was one of the only problems I had with this story. The classism displayed by the characters, while accurate for the time, in some ways I think went a bit too far. The Duke loves Leonie and at the same time expresses disgust and distaste for the people in the class she was raised in. There was some character development as well that made the characters themselves reflect the very traits that distinguish them as being a commoner or a noble even in situations where it would be far fetched to believe it. In the nature versus nurture argument These Old Shades falls firmly on the side of nature and I can't say any more or will risk spoiling it.
Georgette Heyer makes you fall in love with her characters even if they really don't deserve it. Whether it is a debauched rake who is addressed as Satan (and rightfully so) on a number of occasions, or a headstrong girl who thinks little of everyone save for her savior the Duke Heyer will make them lovable and you will care what happens to them even if you don't agree with them, their ideals, or their lifestyle choices. The romance turned out to be very sweet and left me wondering what will happen to them down the road. Thankfully I don't have to wonder long because this is the first in a trilogy. Next is Devil's Cub followed by An Infamous Army each taking place generations later. I look forward to it!
Show Less
LibraryThing member kathleen586
I got about half-way through this book before my digital library loan expired. I didn't mind very much, because this book is bizarre. I disliked all the main characters, and the beginning third of the book was very strange. It would have been fun to see how the Duke enacted his revenge on Leonie's
I still want to read some Georgette Heyer romances, so hopefully I can eventually acquire an Alameda County library card (they have a large selection of Heyer Kindle books).
Show More
real family, but I have better books to read right now. :PI still want to read some Georgette Heyer romances, so hopefully I can eventually acquire an Alameda County library card (they have a large selection of Heyer Kindle books).
Show Less
LibraryThing member francescadefreitas
My first Heyer, and I think I'm a fan. This was crazy melodramatic plot, with entertaining, likeable (and dislikeable) characters, all of the twists of Wilkie Collins with much more tongue in cheek.
LibraryThing member halo776
Over the past few years, I have begun a collection of Georgette Heyer's works. If you enjoy a good, clean Regency romance, she is your go-to source. You will not find the passion here as in Julia Quinn's works, but instead a more subtle courtship. I love her historical descriptions and well-drawn
This particular book, THESE OLD SHADES, is classic Heyer. It was an enjoyable read, and it held my interest until the very end. The reason for the 4-star rating? There is quite an age difference between the the hero and heroine (20+ years), and at times it seemed unbelievable to me that the worldly Duke of Avon could fall in love with the child he calls "infant." It seemed a bit awkward at times, but fortunately, by the end all was resolved in another satisfying conclusion. Very enjoyable Regency romance as always!
Show More
characters. This particular book, THESE OLD SHADES, is classic Heyer. It was an enjoyable read, and it held my interest until the very end. The reason for the 4-star rating? There is quite an age difference between the the hero and heroine (20+ years), and at times it seemed unbelievable to me that the worldly Duke of Avon could fall in love with the child he calls "infant." It seemed a bit awkward at times, but fortunately, by the end all was resolved in another satisfying conclusion. Very enjoyable Regency romance as always!
Show Less
LibraryThing member jmaloney17
So this one is fine. It mostly takes place in Paris. I don't really have much to say about it. Off to the next one. One good thing about Heyer ... there are plenty to choose from.
LibraryThing member Figgles
Classic Georgette Heyer, set slightly earlier than her beloved Regency period, but non the less delicious. A rather ridiculous plot is carried off by strong and likeable characters, in particular Leon/Leonie. The descriptions of Versailles are sumptuous. Read it as a romp! (I re-read it this time
Show More
as I was feeling unwell, and it did help me feel much better!). Show Less
LibraryThing member auntieknickers
I came very late to Georgette Heyer, having read my first of her books only a couple of years ago because it was on the Guardian's 1000 Novels You Must Read list. I'm working my way through, and found that one of the most recommended books, An Infamous Army, was listed as third in "the Alastair
Show More
trilogy." This is the first of those, and the first of her books I've read that is not set during the Regency period for which Heyer is best known. I believe the time period is about 1760, well before the French Revolution and Napoleon, so Justin Alastair, Duke of Avon, can readily travel between Paris and England. Justin is a typical Heyer hero -- arrogant, rich, handsome and apparently quite selfish. When a young boy cannons into him on the street, fleeing from a brutish relative, Justin has no qualms about buying the boy with a piece of jewelry. He already suspects that all is not as it seems, and that his new page may be the means of settling an old score. Surprises are in store for one and all, and not least for Justin himself. A very enjoyable read, and as well-researched as the Regency books as far as I could tell. Show Less
LibraryThing member JenneB
This book was strangely perverse, but I kind of enjoyed it anyway. Despite the AMAZINGLY IRRITATING main character.
LibraryThing member kaulsu
This, combined with its sequel, "Devil's Cub," is an absolute favorite. Set in Georgian times, but with none of the awkward (even tedious) dialog of "The Black Moth" (also related, I think to these two volumes).
However, this book seems to highlight Heyer's deplorable feelings of class distinction:
However, this book seems to highlight Heyer's deplorable feelings of class distinction:
Show More
that the "upper class" will be brighter, smarter, physically more appealing, etc., than the yeoman class, who will be coarse, rough, un-literary (if not illiterate), and physically unappealing. Of course, this is what moves the plot forward, but it is unfortunate, nonetheless. Show Less
LibraryThing member jjmcgaffey
Fun. Justin was quite unpleasant to read at the beginning, but he got better (I can see him sneering at the notion!). It's completely unlikely, of course - a nine-year-old being taken for a boy is possible, not a nineteen-year-old. But ignoring that, it's a lot of fun - escapades and mysteries and
Show More
abductions and old enmities being cured - or otherwise resolved. Yes, it's clearly linked to The Black Moth - and clearly not that story. Merivale isn't John, and never made a living (however casually) as a highwayman. I'd like to see this version, actually - see the differences. But the general events are clear, and not crucial to this story anyway. The romance is a very important thread, but it's well-buried in the adventure until nearly the end. I don't actually like Leonie - at least, in real life, I think she'd drive me nuts. She's cute in the story, though. A very enjoyable fluff read. More please. Show Less
LibraryThing member BooksOverTv
It was a good book with lot's of twist and turns. The ending was as expected. However, having figured that out about 25% into the book it was still a great read and kept my attention. The characters were all interesting and most played a huge part in making the story enjoyable.
LibraryThing member veracite
I really like the way Heyer doesn't fuss about trying to make the plot twists a surprise.
Subjects
Awards
AAR Top 100 Romances (63 — Most Recent Rank - 2000)
Original publication date
1926
Physical description
416 p.; 6.66 inches
ISBN
0373835590 / 9780373835591