Book Review: "The Farmer's Daughter A Romance Regency - The Hampshire Stories Series, Volume II" written and independently published by Joe Giampaolo (June 17, 2021).

So... what we have here is a wonderfully written follow-up to Mr. Giampaolo's first book in the Hampshire Stories Series: Hampshire Stories: A Collection Of Tales Set In 19th Century England, independently published on August 7, 2020, currently sporting 4.6 out of 5 in global ratings on Amazon.  This is a wonderful achievement for a first book in a series, a reader incentive to purchase a well-written book.

Hampshire Stories: A Collection Of Tales Set In 19th Century England written by Joe Giampaolo

Mr. Giampaolo is still enjoying great success with his first book in the series and I am pleased to report that he continues to have success with his follow-up book, The Farmer's Daughter, A Regency Romance.  I purchased this book via Amazon on pre-order in April of 2021.

Like the first book in the series, this second book boasts an exquisite cover rich in vivid color and imagery. It is a lovely cover, delicate in its illustration and does not stray from the first book in conveying a certain elegance that matches the contents written within the book. The lady pictured in historical garb is on point, setting the tone and drawing the reader into the 19th century even before delving into the first chapter.

The Farmer's Daughter, A Regency Romance written by Joe Giampaolo

Writing Style

Mr. Giampaolo's writing style flows with an elegance that keeps the reader hooked. His use of vivid imagery is prevalent throughout the book.   Mr. Giampaolo has a clear grasp of painting a story within your mind with his carefully curated words as illustrated in such lines as:

"On the ground, the familiar carpet of tawny and vermillion leaves softened the ground; up in the sky, the indigo clouds were adorned with painted strokes of orange and silver."

"They saw jolly little lads, dressed in tiny frocks and corduroy trousers, and little girls, in their pristine white caps and pinafores and grey frocks; their noses were pressed against the front window of Mr. Green’s toy shop, gazing in delight at the dolls, spin tops, and figurines of farm animals."

Mr. Giampaolo's skillful use of imagery draws the reader into the story, solidifying an intimate connection.  It is evident that he has  conducted a thorough investigation regarding historical content and implemented his acquired knowledge in stunning, authentic detail.  His writing conveys an old world charm... an uncontrived elegance wherein he is very much in control of the tone and style of his writing.

Plot And Character Development

Mr. Giampaolo's main characters in this book are fleshed out in that he breathes life into them so much so, you find yourself avidly rooting for their happy ending.  In fact, all his characters are vividly described in detail, from their facial expressions, inner thoughts, outer appearance and interactions.  He deftly humanizes them.  As you read the book, you realize it is no longer just a story... it is life emanating from the pages.  Mr. Giampaolo  skillfully paces the plot with timely character development. Chapter by chapter unravels like an orange being peeled. There is no rushing. No forced scenes. Every development within the story meticulously blends with one another in a seamless fashion.

In Conclusion

I fell in love with the book cover. I fell in love with the characters.  I fell in love with the writing style.  Quite simply... I fell in love with the entire sum of this book. The story transported to another era and I felt like I was there, walking those same streets and interacting with those same people. Overall, this regency romance novel is elegant, meticulously crafted and and an absolute joy to read.  I consider it a rare jewel in its genre.  Bravo, Mr. Giampaolo!

Special Notes

• You can acquire a copy of Joe Giampaolo's The Farmer's Daughter: A Regency Romance (The Hampshire Stories Series) via Amazon Canada by clicking HERE and Amazon USA by clicking HERE​

I was not requested to do this review. I did it of my own volition, volunteering my views in an effort to bring the author and potential reader together.

If you read a book, please remember to leave a review on any site of your choosing.  It acts as an incentive for other readers to purchase an author's book.  Writers are super appreciative of this kind act.

Book Review:  The Farmer's Daughter: A Regency Romance (The Hampshire Series) ​written by Joe Giampaolo

Book Blog Copyright (C) 2021  Mary-Lisa Russo 

Author

​​​You have stumbled into the writing world of Mary-Lisa Russo, an avid storyteller observing the universe around her and her humble place amongst the stars. “Excerpts From The Wandering Mind” is Mary-Lisa’s first collection of poems and she is currently working on her next book, a compilation of romantic poetry. She is a university graduate h​aving majored in English Literature and continues to nurture her ongoing writing education at a local college and other educational avenues. She is a member of the Ontario Poetry Society and various writers’ groups.  She enjoys reading and giving a voice to fellow authors.

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