Assessment:

Plot/Idea: Barnes has written a highly charming tale about two hapless souls falling in love. Harkening back to the forbidden love of Romeo and Juliet, along with a serious commentary both on reputation in society and the frequently bigoted treatment disabled people experience, The Dishonored Viscount is as socially and politically poignant as it is romantic.

Prose: Barnes is skilled at worldbuilding, thrusting the reader into a frilly, music-filled, luxurious environment. She brings to life the scenes at hand, while effortlessly revealing the true feelings of her characters. Occasionally the dialogue can become confusing, especially when characters are referred to by different names, including their title, their first name, or their last name.

Originality: Barnes has found a strong niche. However, she manages successfully to breathe new life into the tried and true tropes of the genre, bringing in intriguing topics, such as nuanced depictions of disability and social isolation.

Character Development/Execution: The Dishonored Viscount is put together exactly how it intends to be in order to portray a romantic period piece. The book begins with a frilly title page, and ushers the reader into a well-formatted book that looks as pleasant as it is to read. The characters also come to life, freely expressing their feelings of awkwardness along with their love. 

Date Submitted: April 10, 2022