BOOK BRIEF

These Old Shades (Alastair-Audley, #1)

Georgette Heyer
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These Old Shades (Alastair-Audley, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

Book Brief

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Georgette Heyer

These Old Shades (Alastair-Audley, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • 18th century

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

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Super Short Summary

These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer tells the story of a Duke who, in a twist of fate, rescues a young person from an abusive situation. The narrative unfolds with themes of identity, transformation, and romance set against the backdrop of 18th-century France and England.

Reviews & Readership

4.3

27,908 ratings

79%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer is largely praised for its engaging plot, vivid historical setting, and witty dialogue, capturing the period's essence with a charming romance. However, some readers feel character development is inconsistent and the pacing uneven. The novel remains a favorite for those appreciating historical romance with a touch of adventure.

Who should read this

Who Should Read These Old Shades (Alastair-Audley, #1)?

Fans of historical romance who delight in witty repartee, intricate plots, and richly detailed 18th-century settings will enjoy Georgette Heyer's These Old Shades. Readers who love Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or the works of Julia Quinn, especially The Duke and I, will find similar pleasure in Heyer's storytelling.

4.3

27,908 ratings

79%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

These Old Shades was published in 1926 and is often credited with laying the groundwork for the Regency romance subgenre, although it is set in the Georgian era.

The novel features a cross-dressing heroine, an unconventional choice that was quite innovative for its time and showcased Georgette Heyer's flair for creating strong, engaging female characters.

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Georgette Heyer fans often note that These Old Shades draws parallels with her earlier book, The Black Moth, as some characters in both stories share similar traits and backgrounds.

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Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • 18th century

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

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