The Foreign Papers by javamomma0921

Isabella Swan, Ph.D., an antique documents expert, has been called from Forks by Edward Masen in Oxford, UK to consult on the deciphering of the Cullen family letters. These letters, written over a span of 300 years, center on the topic of vampire legend, and as Bella works, we come to realize that Edward may know more about their origin than he originally let’s on. For example:

“There are numerous dots and lines in this particular letter that suggest that this document, which is clearly from the 18th century, was written by a person taught to write in the late 16th century. It’s very strange.”

Strange, indeed…

Beyond their work, Edward and Bella’s attraction is instantaneous, evident through their first meeting over dinner:

“She felt the ripple of electricity as his fingers brushed against her thigh. She wondered if it was simply an accident caused by the close proximity, but no. His cold fingers sat splayed against her thigh much longer than if it had been an accident. As he pulled them away, she squeezed her thighs together in an effort to quell the desire raging through her blood at the moment.”

But something seems to be holding Edward back:

“You have no idea how long I’ve waited for you … how much I want you. But I can’t. Not yet.”

What’s he waiting for?

Bella, herself, aptly summarizes the key questions:

“What was Edward? And, a new question added itself to the mix: Just how long was forever to a being like him?”

Moreover, what is his connection to the Cullen family and these letters?

I love this story for several reasons, but I will focus on three in particular.

First, I adore Java’s characterization of an intelligent and inquisitive Bella. As a grad student, I love being able to relate to a Bella as a professional woman, competent in her field and not afraid to smack down some egos to preserve the integrity of her work. Bella certainly has the capacity to put the pieces together, but what will be her reaction when she does?

Second, this Edward is BEYOND sexy:

“His face was almost jarring in its perfection, smooth porcelain skin, long amber eyelashes, and warm eyes that were nearly hypnotizing in their intensity.”

It’s evident that Edward’s experienced much of the world, yet his singular devotion to Bella is the stuff dreams are made of:

“I love you beyond reason, Bella Swan, and I could never harm you.”

In addition, Edward prefers grad students, which automatically makes me love him in a BIG way!

Last, as a lemon-lover, I can’t do without gushing over the deliciousness Java dishes us in FP. Let me give you some examples:

“She drank him in, pulling his tongue into her mouth and pressing her mouth to his…His tongue was cool against hers and left her with a tingling sensation on her lips. She wanted more.”

And this is only Edward and Bella’s first kiss! But make no mistake, Edward exhibits the same desperate need:

“My fingers are not shaking because I have doubts,” he replied, his breath puffing against her overheated skin. “I believe they call this barely restrained desire, love. I can’t wait to taste you.”

Have you fainted yet?

I review and recommend FP with complete belief that once you start, you won’t be able to stop. Join me as I follow Java across Europe, trailing after Edward and Bella as the puzzles unfurl. See you in Oxford!

*fans self* I don’t know what I can add to FunmbiE’s excellent review except to say that I agree, wholeheartedly, with everything she said. The Foreign Papers will suck you in immediately and leave you begging for more (uh, hello chapter 10).

The characters are strong and the storyline is excellent. It’s hot and romantic and supernatural, and I can’t say enough about it. Check it out, you won’t be sorry!

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