After listening to an interview with Clare Ashton on The Lesbian Talk Show in which After Mrs. Hamilton was described as a romance book that broke all the rules and (by one reviewer) the worst lesfic romance novel ever written, I immediately bought it. My interest was certainly peaked. I love books that cause controversy and I’m always looking for something different. I raced through this novel and was not disappointed. I loved it. Not only was the plot captivating and the characters unique, but the writing was so lovely.
Here’s the premise-
Clo has spent the last ten(ish) years in romantic isolation as a high end escort for wealthy women after a traumatic encounter in her last relationship left her scarred. She’s near the point of breaking when a new client, Mrs. Hamilton, leaves an impression that cuts Clo open. Meanwhile, Clo’s friend, Laura, struggles with her marriage as there are too many undisclosed facts about her childhood to allow her to start a family of her own. She finds companionship in Susan, an American girl who is also searching for answers, and the two form an intimate relationship. As the story progresses, Clo, Laura, and Susan all find love and, eventually, answers.
The characters in this book are so detailed and interesting. I felt like I understood each one and they all really resonated with me. This book has two main story lines (Clo’s and Laura/Susan) that take place simultaneously and sometimes interweave. I like how in Ashton’s books there’s more than just one plot point occurring so the main focus isn’t on one couple’s impending relationship (we saw this in The Goodmans as well). The multiple lines interweaving and then connecting in the end kept me thoroughly engaged throughout.
I did take a peek at the reviews before reading which I greatly regretted because it spoiled one of the twists. I didn’t give away any spoilers and I suggest not trying to find them. I don’t know if I would have figured out the reveal if I didn’t see the warning, but I encourage readers to go into this one blind. However, if pushing the lines of what’s considered taboo is something that makes you uncomfortable, then maybe move along. I love stretching boundaries, especially when it’s done so beautifully, and enjoyed something a bit darker and a bit different.
The writing in this book is brilliant. Ashton really shows you the emotions of her characters so vividly and describes the settings in such a way that makes me feel familiar with an area in a country I’ve never been. If you’re looking for a powerful romance that doesn’t follow any of the formal patterns and is heavy with emotional depth, then you will enjoy After Mrs. Hamilton. https://www.amazon.com/After-Mrs-Hamilton
Follow Clare Ashton on Twitter: @RClareAshton