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The Doves of New York #1
The Stranger I Wed
New to wealth and to London high society, American heiress Cora Dove discovers that with the right man, marriage might not be such an inconvenience after all. . . .
Cora Dove and her sisters’ questionable legitimacy has been the lifelong subject of New York’s gossipmongers and a continual stain on their father’s reputation. So when the girls each receive a generous, guilt-induced dowry from their dying grandmother, the sly Mr. Hathaway vows to release their funds only if Cora and her sisters can procure suitable husbands—far from New York. For Cora, England is a fresh start. She has no delusions of love, but a husband who will respect her independence? That’s an earl worth fighting for.
Enter: Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, a no-nonsense member of Parliament whose plan to pass a Public Health bill that would provide clean water to the working class requires the backing of a wealthy wife. He just never expected to crave Cora’s touch or yearn to hear her thoughts on his campaign—or to discover that his seemingly perfect bride protects so many secrets...
But secrets have a way of bubbling to the surface, and Devonworth has a few of his own. With their pasts laid bare and Cora’s budding passion for women’s rights taking a dangerous turn, they’ll learn the true cost of losing their heart to a stranger—and that love is worth any price.
Cora Dove and her sisters’ questionable legitimacy has been the lifelong subject of New York’s gossipmongers and a continual stain on their father’s reputation. So when the girls each receive a generous, guilt-induced dowry from their dying grandmother, the sly Mr. Hathaway vows to release their funds only if Cora and her sisters can procure suitable husbands—far from New York. For Cora, England is a fresh start. She has no delusions of love, but a husband who will respect her independence? That’s an earl worth fighting for.
Enter: Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, a no-nonsense member of Parliament whose plan to pass a Public Health bill that would provide clean water to the working class requires the backing of a wealthy wife. He just never expected to crave Cora’s touch or yearn to hear her thoughts on his campaign—or to discover that his seemingly perfect bride protects so many secrets...
But secrets have a way of bubbling to the surface, and Devonworth has a few of his own. With their pasts laid bare and Cora’s budding passion for women’s rights taking a dangerous turn, they’ll learn the true cost of losing their heart to a stranger—and that love is worth any price.
344 pages, Paperback
First published April 23, 2024
About the author
Harper St. George
44 books1,130 followersHarper St. George was raised in rural Alabama and along the tranquil coast of northwest Florida. It was a setting filled with stories of the old days that instilled in her a love of history, romance, and adventure. By high school, she had discovered the historical romance novel which combined all of those elements into one perfect package. She has been hooked ever since.
She lives in the Atlanta area with her husband and two children. When not writing, she can be found devouring her husband's amazing cooking and reading. She would love to hear from you. Please visit her website at harperstgeorge.com
She lives in the Atlanta area with her husband and two children. When not writing, she can be found devouring her husband's amazing cooking and reading. She would love to hear from you. Please visit her website at harperstgeorge.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 309 reviews
August 13, 2024
3.5 stars
This was, for the most part, a lukewarm romance for me. The storyline was good and the characters were fairly intriguing, but I never really connected to either main character. It started to get better around the 60/70% range and then a ton of stuff happened in the last 10%.
I really enjoyed the communication, though not at first 😅 They obviously start out hiding a couple things from the other in order to get the marriage solidified, but they slowly start to open up until they've both given up pretty big things about themselves and the other always took it with grace. And there wasn't really a third act breakup, which was so nice, but the final "conflict" was sort of overtaken by something else completely out of left field. Other than that, I like how the ending was handled.
I am starting to really like these regency era romances more and more, so I enjoyed that and the fight for women's rights that was taking place throughout. It really is rage inducing to see what these men, and women, say about women's rights. I know, I know. This is a book, but this shit really happened and I'm sure this all was said in some way or another by someone back in the day.
Overall would recommend for any regency era romance lovers. 💜
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
This was, for the most part, a lukewarm romance for me. The storyline was good and the characters were fairly intriguing, but I never really connected to either main character. It started to get better around the 60/70% range and then a ton of stuff happened in the last 10%.
I really enjoyed the communication, though not at first 😅 They obviously start out hiding a couple things from the other in order to get the marriage solidified, but they slowly start to open up until they've both given up pretty big things about themselves and the other always took it with grace. And there wasn't really a third act breakup, which was so nice, but the final "conflict" was sort of overtaken by something else completely out of left field. Other than that, I like how the ending was handled.
I am starting to really like these regency era romances more and more, so I enjoyed that and the fight for women's rights that was taking place throughout. It really is rage inducing to see what these men, and women, say about women's rights. I know, I know. This is a book, but this shit really happened and I'm sure this all was said in some way or another by someone back in the day.
Overall would recommend for any regency era romance lovers. 💜
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
April 27, 2024
A delightful marriage of convenience romance with a thoughtful, dedicated hero and a heroine determined to have control over her own life. I loved how they bonded over their shared passion for work: him an earl struggling to bring a clean-water act through Gilded Ages Parliament, her a committed devotee to the cause of equal rights for women, both of them admiring each others' work ethic. And boy does the slow-burn sizzle.
April 23, 2024
3 stars.
''Swoony and tender... all the wit, emotions and chemistry I love.'' If Evie Dunmore said this about this book, I'm going to read it. Simple as that.
''Swoony and tender... all the wit, emotions and chemistry I love.'' If Evie Dunmore said this about this book, I'm going to read it. Simple as that.
April 26, 2024
Harper St. George has been knocking it out of the park with this series! (Technically this is the first in a new series, but it's connected with her previous Gilded Age Heiresses series and what can I say, it feels like a continuation in the best way.) In this one, we get (surprise surprise) an American heiress determined to marry an impoverished lord ... but wait, there's more! They both have (not very awful) secrets in their pasts that may or may not come out; they are both well-spoken political progressives; and they both agree not to consummate the marriage, and that they will separate/divorce after 2 years of putting a good face on it.
This does mean that it's a pretty slow burn. Also an element of the slow burn? The MMC is demi (not described using that terminology in the book); and because of that, he really doesn't feel much of a need (or desire) to bed "the stranger [he] wed." But as all romance readers know, close proximity leads to friendship leads to "oh no, is this LOVE?"
Another element that makes this one a little different from her previous books is that neither the MMC nor the FMC come from affluent backgrounds. Yes, they both come from privileged backgrounds, but we're not talking about Gilded Age industrial giants or society debutantes.
And yeah, it's a slow burn, but when they get there? They GET THERE.
30-Word Summaries:
Meg: Since Devonworth can’t marry the woman he loves, he’s fine with a marriage of convenience. Inconveniently, the more he gets to know his wife, the more he really likes her.
Laine: A mutual marriage of convenience is ruined by mutually developing feelings! Is Leo the most progressive earl ever? Maybe, but he's willing to compromise his morals for his wife's reputation.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
This does mean that it's a pretty slow burn. Also an element of the slow burn? The MMC is demi (not described using that terminology in the book); and because of that, he really doesn't feel much of a need (or desire) to bed "the stranger [he] wed." But as all romance readers know, close proximity leads to friendship leads to "oh no, is this LOVE?"
Another element that makes this one a little different from her previous books is that neither the MMC nor the FMC come from affluent backgrounds. Yes, they both come from privileged backgrounds, but we're not talking about Gilded Age industrial giants or society debutantes.
And yeah, it's a slow burn, but when they get there? They GET THERE.
30-Word Summaries:
Meg: Since Devonworth can’t marry the woman he loves, he’s fine with a marriage of convenience. Inconveniently, the more he gets to know his wife, the more he really likes her.
Laine: A mutual marriage of convenience is ruined by mutually developing feelings! Is Leo the most progressive earl ever? Maybe, but he's willing to compromise his morals for his wife's reputation.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
March 25, 2024
3.5 stars! The Stranger I Wed is the first book in a new Gilded Age historical romance series by Harper St. George and it includes a marriage of convenience. If you loved her previous series, Gilded Age Princesses, then you will definitely enjoy this series and even enjoy appearances of those familiar characters too!
This has a super intriguing premise that grabbed my attention right from the start. Cora and her 2 sisters are the illegitimate daughters of a man from one of New York’s wealthiest and founding families. Fifth Avenue was her birthright, but her and her sisters were never invited in to the exclusive addresses on the streets. When her birth-grandmother (her father’s mother) passes away, she says she regrets the ways Cora and her sisters were treated and wants to do right by giving them all inheritances. Only stipulation is the inheritance will be held in a trust until each is married. So Cora sets off to husband-hunt, and more specifically title-hunt, in London with her mother and sisters in tow!
Her friend in London, Camille from The Duchess Takes a Husband, sets up a house party to meet eligible, titled gentleman for husband-prospects. But before the party, Cora ends up meeting Devonworth when he crashes into her near the football pitch. She realizes later he’s Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, and he’s intrigued with her too once he realizes she’s one of the Americans in town for the party he was invited to. He knows the ways of aristocracy are changing and that he needs money for his estate and an heir, so he proposes marriage and she tells him about her plans of a marriage in name only and to possibly separate or divorce later. They both know a marriage of convenience will work well for them and make an arrangement to appear to be living as husband and wife for two years. But if a divorce isn’t possible, then he needs an heir by five years married.
This one started off great, had an intriguing premise, but then it kind of just had a lot going on and dragged with the romance. I do now the author’s previous series got better as they went on for me, so I am still intrigued and know that this one was setting a lot up for the series and sisters we are following. I did like how she helped him with his Parliament speeches and it is sweet the way he remembers everything she likes and takes notice. All in all, solid start to a new series!
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own!
This has a super intriguing premise that grabbed my attention right from the start. Cora and her 2 sisters are the illegitimate daughters of a man from one of New York’s wealthiest and founding families. Fifth Avenue was her birthright, but her and her sisters were never invited in to the exclusive addresses on the streets. When her birth-grandmother (her father’s mother) passes away, she says she regrets the ways Cora and her sisters were treated and wants to do right by giving them all inheritances. Only stipulation is the inheritance will be held in a trust until each is married. So Cora sets off to husband-hunt, and more specifically title-hunt, in London with her mother and sisters in tow!
Her friend in London, Camille from The Duchess Takes a Husband, sets up a house party to meet eligible, titled gentleman for husband-prospects. But before the party, Cora ends up meeting Devonworth when he crashes into her near the football pitch. She realizes later he’s Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, and he’s intrigued with her too once he realizes she’s one of the Americans in town for the party he was invited to. He knows the ways of aristocracy are changing and that he needs money for his estate and an heir, so he proposes marriage and she tells him about her plans of a marriage in name only and to possibly separate or divorce later. They both know a marriage of convenience will work well for them and make an arrangement to appear to be living as husband and wife for two years. But if a divorce isn’t possible, then he needs an heir by five years married.
This one started off great, had an intriguing premise, but then it kind of just had a lot going on and dragged with the romance. I do now the author’s previous series got better as they went on for me, so I am still intrigued and know that this one was setting a lot up for the series and sisters we are following. I did like how she helped him with his Parliament speeches and it is sweet the way he remembers everything she likes and takes notice. All in all, solid start to a new series!
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own!
June 13, 2024
I'd been wanting to try this author for a bit and though I want to try more of hers, The Stranger I Wed was not the hit I'd hoped it would be. As I'm writing this review and it's focusing more on the negative, I want to stress that some parts were funny or cute and I didn't hate this. Other friends may connect with the main characters where I couldn't.
The story starts out strong, introducing Cora (h) as the illegitimate daughter of a wealthy man in New York, confronting that father and fighting for the inheritance that she and her sisters were left by her paternal grandmother. I felt moved by Cora's plight and intrigued by the spark that's driving her, she seemed like a fighter. The first couple of chapters where she's then in Britain and starting to get the husband hunting process going were also strong, esp her surprise first interaction with Leo (H). There's an instant chemistry and rapport between them that I was hopeful would make this a swoony marriage of convenience story. Unfortunately, once the two of them get married, the book just fell flat for me, even Cora.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama on page, but H's childhood friend turned former lover creates some drama while never appearing as H is afraid to love because of her, she's mentioned many times in his thoughts, and h ends up jealous of the ow from snippets she overhears (I don't remember if they ever hash it out about that ow honestly now that I'm thinking about it more, I think the angst over her just fizzles out). H is experienced and h is not.
The pacing, lack of communication, how much others' opinions affected their relationship, and Leo's hang-ups that dragged on from that prior love all contributed to me struggling a bit to finish this story. In spite of the frustrating aspects of the book, Cora and Leo do find moments of that initial rapport, with Cora helping Leo write his Parliament speech for example, since Cora and Leo are both driven to fight for their fellow humans so are politically active. A friend's review mentioned that Leo read as demisexual, though he's not labeled as such in the book, and I liked that about him too. He's intrigued by Cora as a person and those feelings are what eventually lead him to feel such a strong desire for her. A desire he was so in his own head about, though when he'd pursue it, it led to the couple of very good steamy scenes between them. Cora's initial interest in altering the terms of their relationship for physical intimacy only was a head scratcher for me. She could have also harnessed more of that initial adaptability and proactivity to change her marriage, instead she felt very passive but angsty, ok to stew in her concerns rather than air them out and do something.
The secondary characters, which featured prominently throughout, were also a bit of a disappointment for me. Cora's sisters were in the same boat as her, she'd negotiated for their sake, and neither seemed particularly grateful or want to truly help her. Cora's mother and father felt like they were just there to cause tension, as did Leo's mother and brother. His friends seemed to bring him to life with banter, but then they weren't particularly helpful either. These two main characters were floundering and longing for something more in this agreement they made with each other and that typical character that nudges them in the right direction was lacking. Maybe I'm forgetting an interaction, but this book could have benefited from one of those tough love friendships.
Eventually these two do start communicating more (though there's some third act drama due to some more unspoken words) and they do build a sweet and supportive true marriage. The conflict at the end felt a little out of place for me when coming so close to a personal misunderstanding between them, but both are resolved quickly. The epilogue is HEA of them on a honeymoon trip, being lovey and spicy before a lead-in to the next book. I don't feel inclined to continue the series personally.
The story starts out strong, introducing Cora (h) as the illegitimate daughter of a wealthy man in New York, confronting that father and fighting for the inheritance that she and her sisters were left by her paternal grandmother. I felt moved by Cora's plight and intrigued by the spark that's driving her, she seemed like a fighter. The first couple of chapters where she's then in Britain and starting to get the husband hunting process going were also strong, esp her surprise first interaction with Leo (H). There's an instant chemistry and rapport between them that I was hopeful would make this a swoony marriage of convenience story. Unfortunately, once the two of them get married, the book just fell flat for me, even Cora.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama on page, but H's childhood friend turned former lover creates some drama while never appearing as H is afraid to love because of her, she's mentioned many times in his thoughts, and h ends up jealous of the ow from snippets she overhears (I don't remember if they ever hash it out about that ow honestly now that I'm thinking about it more, I think the angst over her just fizzles out). H is experienced and h is not.
The pacing, lack of communication, how much others' opinions affected their relationship, and Leo's hang-ups that dragged on from that prior love all contributed to me struggling a bit to finish this story. In spite of the frustrating aspects of the book, Cora and Leo do find moments of that initial rapport, with Cora helping Leo write his Parliament speech for example, since Cora and Leo are both driven to fight for their fellow humans so are politically active. A friend's review mentioned that Leo read as demisexual, though he's not labeled as such in the book, and I liked that about him too. He's intrigued by Cora as a person and those feelings are what eventually lead him to feel such a strong desire for her. A desire he was so in his own head about, though when he'd pursue it, it led to the couple of very good steamy scenes between them. Cora's initial interest in altering the terms of their relationship for physical intimacy only was a head scratcher for me. She could have also harnessed more of that initial adaptability and proactivity to change her marriage, instead she felt very passive but angsty, ok to stew in her concerns rather than air them out and do something.
The secondary characters, which featured prominently throughout, were also a bit of a disappointment for me. Cora's sisters were in the same boat as her, she'd negotiated for their sake, and neither seemed particularly grateful or want to truly help her. Cora's mother and father felt like they were just there to cause tension, as did Leo's mother and brother. His friends seemed to bring him to life with banter, but then they weren't particularly helpful either. These two main characters were floundering and longing for something more in this agreement they made with each other and that typical character that nudges them in the right direction was lacking. Maybe I'm forgetting an interaction, but this book could have benefited from one of those tough love friendships.
Eventually these two do start communicating more (though there's some third act drama due to some more unspoken words) and they do build a sweet and supportive true marriage. The conflict at the end felt a little out of place for me when coming so close to a personal misunderstanding between them, but both are resolved quickly. The epilogue is HEA of them on a honeymoon trip, being lovey and spicy before a lead-in to the next book. I don't feel inclined to continue the series personally.
April 10, 2024
Illegitimate miss Cora Dove receives a windfall: the promise of a dowry from her dying grandmother. But her father will only release the funds if Cora and her sisters can find suitable husbands far, far from his family in New York. Earl of Devonworth, Leopold Brendon, needs the backing of a wealthy wife to advance his plans in Parliament. But Cora and Leo’s “loveless arrangement” isn’t what either expected.
This is the first book in the Doves of New York series, featuring Cora and her sisters: unlikely American heiresses seeking marriages in London. Cora begins her husband hunt with the assistance of Camille, Dowager Duchess of Hereford, from the book The Duchess Takes a Husband. I liked how the story began, with Cora scoping out potential grooms before a planned house party. She and Leo share a bit of a meet cute which sparks an attraction and convinces him to attend Camille's gathering.
This is a slow burn and, in my opinion, it had a bit of a pacing problem. While the pining and hot-cold emotions from the characters usually work in a marriage of convenience story, it just fell a little flat for me personally. I liked Cora and Leo's chemistry but I thought his commitment issues were a bit of a cop-out and detracted from the relationship rather than add a layer. Their common goals with Parliment and the Suffragette movement could have been a bigger unifier, but by the end I thought it just lost the momentum. I hope the next one brings back the spark I'm used to from St George's books.
Tropes: Class Differences, Marriage of Convenience, Delayed Consummation, Women’s Suffrage
Steam: 3
This is the first book in the Doves of New York series, featuring Cora and her sisters: unlikely American heiresses seeking marriages in London. Cora begins her husband hunt with the assistance of Camille, Dowager Duchess of Hereford, from the book The Duchess Takes a Husband. I liked how the story began, with Cora scoping out potential grooms before a planned house party. She and Leo share a bit of a meet cute which sparks an attraction and convinces him to attend Camille's gathering.
This is a slow burn and, in my opinion, it had a bit of a pacing problem. While the pining and hot-cold emotions from the characters usually work in a marriage of convenience story, it just fell a little flat for me personally. I liked Cora and Leo's chemistry but I thought his commitment issues were a bit of a cop-out and detracted from the relationship rather than add a layer. Their common goals with Parliment and the Suffragette movement could have been a bigger unifier, but by the end I thought it just lost the momentum. I hope the next one brings back the spark I'm used to from St George's books.
Tropes: Class Differences, Marriage of Convenience, Delayed Consummation, Women’s Suffrage
Steam: 3
April 30, 2024
Cora, Eliza, and Jenny are the Dove sisters, illegitimate daughters of Charles Hathaway. Their mother was his mistress and he promised to marry her, but jilted her for a society woman. As the story opens, Cora is asking her father to honor the will left by her grandmother, which provided dowries for the three girls. Hathaway tries to buy her off, but then promises the money if she and her sisters marry aristocrats.
We jump to England, where Camile Bridwell, the bride whose wedding the Crenshaws attended in the first book of Harper St. George's last series and whose story ended that series, pledges to help Cora and her sisters meet men at a house party. This is the period during which Dollar Princesses were coming to England to marry titles (Cash for Class is the phrase used in this book and some others). Cora finds her match and the wedding happens by about 30% into the book.
The rest of the book deals with Cora's past, her husband's baggage, adjusting to society life in England, and the budding romance between the main characters. There's a small reference to Cora's writing under a pen name back at home and how that impacts her husband's work. If I changed anything about this book, is that we'd see more of the backstory there, but this is the start of a series and there may be a series-long arc in the works. We shall see!
As with Harper St. George's other books, this is a fast, fun read.
November 7, 2023
LOVED IT!
Ok, does every book Harper St. George writes get better? There not too much to say other than do yourself a favor and read this book!
I really love the unique setting of the gilded age.
What I loved...
They both with do anything for their family.
They feel the attraction right away.
Slow burn but then it get HOT!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for letting me read an arc of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ok, does every book Harper St. George writes get better? There not too much to say other than do yourself a favor and read this book!
I really love the unique setting of the gilded age.
What I loved...
They both with do anything for their family.
They feel the attraction right away.
Slow burn but then it get HOT!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for letting me read an arc of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Shelved as 'dnf'
March 12, 2024i'm going to mark this as a DNF. I made it to just over the 50% mark and these two have barely spoken, let alone romanced. Sure she just caught him masturbating, and that was pretty hot, but i'm not drawn to continue at this time.
i ~might~ come back someday (it isn't bad, just not for me right now).
i ~might~ come back someday (it isn't bad, just not for me right now).
May 6, 2024
I am so disappointed.
I loved the Gilded Age Heiresses series. Love it! It's my jam. And when Harper St George announced a spin-off series, I was 100% invested. And then I read the book (well, I read the vast majority of it and even that felt like pulling teeth) and I was so let down, I had to lie down. 'The Stranger I Wed' is, ultimately, a rather dull, repetitive book that feels like it's been done before - even by this author! It feels like she's plagiarising herself, badly. Fundamental issues with pacing, with character and ultimately, with the plot itself prevent this book from being as strong as 'The Heiress Gets A Duke', the first book in the previous series.
Firstly - these two do not get close to fucking until about 3/4 of the way through the book. There's 1 brief moment, lots of thoughts of doing stuff (but no action) and not even any real chemistry. Even when they do sleep together, the chemistry remains absent. I think this is largely because the characters themselves have no real conflict or even a spark between them that makes us want to read about their relationship. Everything Cora does that's 'different' from what Englishwomen would do is happily accepted by Leo - there's no push back, no conflict. Leo himself is a bland, two dimensional figure that offers very little despite the author constantly telling us how significant he is in government and how passionate he is about his work. Similarly with Cora - after a very strong prologue, her entire personality crumbles into 'I think I've done everything wrong, please give me approval big strong man'. There is nothing preventing these two from getting to the inevitable conclusion than their own unmotivated reasons.
Speaking of lack of motivation: neither of them had any. Leo is built up as having been rejected by a girl he loves and now won't fuck his own wife, despite the fact that he clearly wants to. This is not a bad motivation by any means, but it's never utilised to its full potential. The author just tells us everything, shows us nothing and it makes for a painfully boring book. Give us the conflict! Why does it always have to be him going to her - why can't Cora go to him? These two just do not ever communicate and it ruins the entire book.
The pacing is not bad, but it needed to be used better. These two enter into a marriage of convenience and you would hope that them being pushed together would create these wonderful sparky moments of chemistry and it just...doesn't. The chapters are very repetitive - it feels like at least 100 pages of this were just filler because the author didn't know what to write - and it doesn't move the plot or characters along. Occasionally other people appear to set up further books, but no one leaves much of an impact.
I was bored, truthfully. This book dragged and dragged, it was dull and in another author's hands, I think this could have been a much better executed concept. Go read the previous series to this book - you'll be spoiled by August Crenshaw who is much better written.
I loved the Gilded Age Heiresses series. Love it! It's my jam. And when Harper St George announced a spin-off series, I was 100% invested. And then I read the book (well, I read the vast majority of it and even that felt like pulling teeth) and I was so let down, I had to lie down. 'The Stranger I Wed' is, ultimately, a rather dull, repetitive book that feels like it's been done before - even by this author! It feels like she's plagiarising herself, badly. Fundamental issues with pacing, with character and ultimately, with the plot itself prevent this book from being as strong as 'The Heiress Gets A Duke', the first book in the previous series.
Firstly - these two do not get close to fucking until about 3/4 of the way through the book. There's 1 brief moment, lots of thoughts of doing stuff (but no action) and not even any real chemistry. Even when they do sleep together, the chemistry remains absent. I think this is largely because the characters themselves have no real conflict or even a spark between them that makes us want to read about their relationship. Everything Cora does that's 'different' from what Englishwomen would do is happily accepted by Leo - there's no push back, no conflict. Leo himself is a bland, two dimensional figure that offers very little despite the author constantly telling us how significant he is in government and how passionate he is about his work. Similarly with Cora - after a very strong prologue, her entire personality crumbles into 'I think I've done everything wrong, please give me approval big strong man'. There is nothing preventing these two from getting to the inevitable conclusion than their own unmotivated reasons.
Speaking of lack of motivation: neither of them had any. Leo is built up as having been rejected by a girl he loves and now won't fuck his own wife, despite the fact that he clearly wants to. This is not a bad motivation by any means, but it's never utilised to its full potential. The author just tells us everything, shows us nothing and it makes for a painfully boring book. Give us the conflict! Why does it always have to be him going to her - why can't Cora go to him? These two just do not ever communicate and it ruins the entire book.
The pacing is not bad, but it needed to be used better. These two enter into a marriage of convenience and you would hope that them being pushed together would create these wonderful sparky moments of chemistry and it just...doesn't. The chapters are very repetitive - it feels like at least 100 pages of this were just filler because the author didn't know what to write - and it doesn't move the plot or characters along. Occasionally other people appear to set up further books, but no one leaves much of an impact.
I was bored, truthfully. This book dragged and dragged, it was dull and in another author's hands, I think this could have been a much better executed concept. Go read the previous series to this book - you'll be spoiled by August Crenshaw who is much better written.
April 22, 2024
I enjoy St. George and was delighted to begin The Stranger I Wed, the first novel in The Doves of New York featuring three sisters of questionable legitimacy. The girls and their mother have had a rough time of it and are discovered that their grandmother has reconsidered, leaving a sizable dowry to each. However, when they go to receive the funds, Mr. Hathaway refuses to release them until each is married. Cora doesn’t want to marry, but hatches a plan.
They travel to London where their host compiles a list of eligible bachelors and arranges a house party to meet them. The girls screen the men ahead of time and I adored the meet-cute between Cora and Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth. I laughed and soon found myself caught up in their romance, or should I say, arrangement. *winks*
The author weaves in public health issues, women’s suffrage and plenty of banter, chemistry and wit. Cora is headstrong, passionate, and clever. She has this brilliant plan until she isn’t at all sure what she wants and I loved the story that unfolds. Leopold’s passion is in parliament fighting for justices and in protecting his family and restoring the Devonworth estate. He possesses a forward-thinking nature, making him the perfect candidate to unravel Cora’s well-devised strategies.
The romance felt genuine with immediate chemistry and a slow-burn romance that heated delightfully. I loved the tension, discoveries, and outcome.
I cannot wait for the next sister’s story. If you’re a fan of historical romance and strong female characters, you won’t want to miss The Stranger I Wed.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
They travel to London where their host compiles a list of eligible bachelors and arranges a house party to meet them. The girls screen the men ahead of time and I adored the meet-cute between Cora and Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth. I laughed and soon found myself caught up in their romance, or should I say, arrangement. *winks*
The author weaves in public health issues, women’s suffrage and plenty of banter, chemistry and wit. Cora is headstrong, passionate, and clever. She has this brilliant plan until she isn’t at all sure what she wants and I loved the story that unfolds. Leopold’s passion is in parliament fighting for justices and in protecting his family and restoring the Devonworth estate. He possesses a forward-thinking nature, making him the perfect candidate to unravel Cora’s well-devised strategies.
The romance felt genuine with immediate chemistry and a slow-burn romance that heated delightfully. I loved the tension, discoveries, and outcome.
I cannot wait for the next sister’s story. If you’re a fan of historical romance and strong female characters, you won’t want to miss The Stranger I Wed.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 8, 2024
BOOK REVIEW: The Stranger I Wed by Harper St. George
Series: The Doves Of New York | Book 1
2024 Publication Date: April 23
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Historical Romance
T.I.M.E. Most Anticipated Books Of 2024
Pages: 364
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub-Genre: Gilded Age Romance | Steamy Romance
T.I.M.E. Jalapeno Rating:️ 🌶🌶🌶 (Hot Spicy)
Time Period: Gilded Age
Location: London (England)
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
--------------------
All my book reviews can be seen at This Is My Everybody | Simple Living | Denise Wilbanks at thisismyeverybody.com/blog/what-book-...
♡ Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.
// COME ON OVER & SAY HELLO!...
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Series: The Doves Of New York | Book 1
2024 Publication Date: April 23
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Historical Romance
T.I.M.E. Most Anticipated Books Of 2024
Pages: 364
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub-Genre: Gilded Age Romance | Steamy Romance
T.I.M.E. Jalapeno Rating:️ 🌶🌶🌶 (Hot Spicy)
Time Period: Gilded Age
Location: London (England)
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
--------------------
All my book reviews can be seen at This Is My Everybody | Simple Living | Denise Wilbanks at thisismyeverybody.com/blog/what-book-...
♡ Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.
// COME ON OVER & SAY HELLO!...
Website: https://thisismyeverybody.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisIsMyEver...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thisismyeve...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisismyeve...
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thisismyever...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisismyever...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/t_everybody
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisismyevery...
And let's be friends here on Goodreads too!... ✨😎✨
April 26, 2024
Cora Dove and her sisters’ inheritances are contingent on them finding husbands far away from New York, their birthplace, thanks to their jerk of a father. So they head off to England in search of husbands.
Leopold Brendon, The Earl of Devonworth, captures Cora’s attention right away when they literally crash into each other. He’s in need of a wife with money and she’s in need of a marriage with a title so they make their arrangement with an expiration date, at Cora’s request. Cora doesn’t want to be beholden to any man, her mother soured her on that, but Leo is a different man from her father.
Leo had his heart broken, so he’s wary of giving his heart to any woman, especially when Cora makes it clear that the marriage is for convenience only. However, they are attracted to each other and in time also come to respect each other. Can they get past their issues to let love in? I hoped so!
Both Cora and Leo had reasons to be wary of a romantic relationship. Cora’s father was something else! I’d love to see him sorry for how he behaved, but I won’t hold my breath. Cora’s mother wasn’t much better, in my opinion. The woman was a big detractor for her girls with her outrageous behavior.
I appreciated that both Cora and Leo were moved to advocate for others and bonded over their righting the injustices of their time.
I really enjoyed The Stranger I Wed. It was a slow burn romance; with multi-layered characters I could relate to and root for! It filled my heart with joy to see Cora find everything she was looking for and so much more with Leo! I’m hoping each of the Dove sisters find their HEA!
A copy was provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Leopold Brendon, The Earl of Devonworth, captures Cora’s attention right away when they literally crash into each other. He’s in need of a wife with money and she’s in need of a marriage with a title so they make their arrangement with an expiration date, at Cora’s request. Cora doesn’t want to be beholden to any man, her mother soured her on that, but Leo is a different man from her father.
Leo had his heart broken, so he’s wary of giving his heart to any woman, especially when Cora makes it clear that the marriage is for convenience only. However, they are attracted to each other and in time also come to respect each other. Can they get past their issues to let love in? I hoped so!
Both Cora and Leo had reasons to be wary of a romantic relationship. Cora’s father was something else! I’d love to see him sorry for how he behaved, but I won’t hold my breath. Cora’s mother wasn’t much better, in my opinion. The woman was a big detractor for her girls with her outrageous behavior.
I appreciated that both Cora and Leo were moved to advocate for others and bonded over their righting the injustices of their time.
I really enjoyed The Stranger I Wed. It was a slow burn romance; with multi-layered characters I could relate to and root for! It filled my heart with joy to see Cora find everything she was looking for and so much more with Leo! I’m hoping each of the Dove sisters find their HEA!
A copy was provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2024
Harper St. George never disappoints! It was wonderful being back in this world with a new set of Gilded Age Heiresses looking for their happily ever afters.
I loved Cora and Leo together. They had fantastic chemistry and a nice foundation of friendship that made their love story very enjoyable. There were some third act misunderstandings that I'm usually not fond of, but in this book, I didn't really mind them. They fit well into the story.
Overall, this was a great start to a new series, and I'm eagerly awaiting Eliza's story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I loved Cora and Leo together. They had fantastic chemistry and a nice foundation of friendship that made their love story very enjoyable. There were some third act misunderstandings that I'm usually not fond of, but in this book, I didn't really mind them. They fit well into the story.
Overall, this was a great start to a new series, and I'm eagerly awaiting Eliza's story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 24, 2024
I recently had the pleasure of meeting this author and she was so incredibly kind and friendly! I enjoy all her work, including this book. I adore American Gilded Age stories.
April 24, 2024
Oh I so love a good marriage of convenience, and this one was fantastic. They got married quite early on, and I was so happy to get a marriage on paper only because I so wanted a slow burn. Their relationship evolved quite nicely, from strangers to friends to lovers, and it was all very believable. Their attraction was pretty much there from the start but still, the sexual tension between the two got hotter and hotter as this story went on so it was a perfect slow buuuuuurn with a big fire.
Both characters were relatable and easy to love. Taking care of their family, doing what they thought was best and all. We had a first meeting that was quite "striking" and it was so entertaining. They were pretty resolved about their situation and honest with what they expected from this marriage from the start, which I appreciate. You could tell they truly cared about each other. It took them quite a while to accept the fact that they were a perfect match as they developed feelings. I did feel like shaking them a little at one point but they eventually managed on their own.
I always enjoy reading about historical romance when there is a bit of a clash between England and America's ways. Considering that Cora's family wasn't even part of the higher sphere of society it was even more of a clash and it was interesting to see. It was a well written story with characters that completed each other, a delight to read. I'll definitely have to get to The Gilded Age Heiresses series sitting on my TBR now!
P.s. Fun fact and totally unrelated to my enjoyment of the book but boy how I struggled with the MMC's name, hahaha. Why do I have so many things going on in my head with a simple name? I mean, if they called him Leopold, instantly I started signing that Les Cowboys Fringants song (go listen now, you'll thank me later), then if it was Leo, of course my cat was in my head... and finally, if they said Leonidas, Gerard Butler took over (that one I am definitely not complaining, but sadly it didn't stick).
Thanks to the author and Berkley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Both characters were relatable and easy to love. Taking care of their family, doing what they thought was best and all. We had a first meeting that was quite "striking" and it was so entertaining. They were pretty resolved about their situation and honest with what they expected from this marriage from the start, which I appreciate. You could tell they truly cared about each other. It took them quite a while to accept the fact that they were a perfect match as they developed feelings. I did feel like shaking them a little at one point but they eventually managed on their own.
I always enjoy reading about historical romance when there is a bit of a clash between England and America's ways. Considering that Cora's family wasn't even part of the higher sphere of society it was even more of a clash and it was interesting to see. It was a well written story with characters that completed each other, a delight to read. I'll definitely have to get to The Gilded Age Heiresses series sitting on my TBR now!
P.s. Fun fact and totally unrelated to my enjoyment of the book but boy how I struggled with the MMC's name, hahaha. Why do I have so many things going on in my head with a simple name? I mean, if they called him Leopold, instantly I started signing that Les Cowboys Fringants song (go listen now, you'll thank me later), then if it was Leo, of course my cat was in my head... and finally, if they said Leonidas, Gerard Butler took over (that one I am definitely not complaining, but sadly it didn't stick).
Thanks to the author and Berkley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
April 25, 2024
An American heiress challenges the aristocracy
The marriage of convenience trope takes on new insights here. Cora Dove and her sisters, illegitimate daughters of one of Fifth Avenue’s most prestigious families, have been left a large sum of money by their grandmother. Its conditional upon them marrying someone their father, Mr. Hathaway (who doesn’t acknowledge them) approves of, and they remove themselves from New York.
The girls and their mother sail to London (far enough away?) to join the stream of American heiresses marrying into the cash strapped aristocracy. (Approval guaranteed!)
Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, is a vocal member of parliament supporting a variety of forward thinking causes. He needs to marry an heiress. His brother Harry’s gambling habit is bringing the family coffers to its knees. Their ancestral home, Timberscombe Park, is falling down around his ears. (Why he puts up with Harry’s antics are a mystery to me).
Cora it seems is the answer. Only Cora, a staunch suffragette, makes an unusual request to which Leo agrees.
The path of their romance is somewhat rocky and steamy, but love eventually conquers all.
Interesting premise to the novel but at times becomes tad stilted and cliched.
A Berkeley Group ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
The marriage of convenience trope takes on new insights here. Cora Dove and her sisters, illegitimate daughters of one of Fifth Avenue’s most prestigious families, have been left a large sum of money by their grandmother. Its conditional upon them marrying someone their father, Mr. Hathaway (who doesn’t acknowledge them) approves of, and they remove themselves from New York.
The girls and their mother sail to London (far enough away?) to join the stream of American heiresses marrying into the cash strapped aristocracy. (Approval guaranteed!)
Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, is a vocal member of parliament supporting a variety of forward thinking causes. He needs to marry an heiress. His brother Harry’s gambling habit is bringing the family coffers to its knees. Their ancestral home, Timberscombe Park, is falling down around his ears. (Why he puts up with Harry’s antics are a mystery to me).
Cora it seems is the answer. Only Cora, a staunch suffragette, makes an unusual request to which Leo agrees.
The path of their romance is somewhat rocky and steamy, but love eventually conquers all.
Interesting premise to the novel but at times becomes tad stilted and cliched.
A Berkeley Group ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
May 25, 2024
After reading and loving the previous series, I was eager to get this sort-of spin off.
I liked Cora and Leo. They're both good people, settling into a marriage of convenience...and then had to wait a very long time for any sort of chemistry to show up. I liked the small portions shown of Cora's sisters, but this was firmly the story of Cora and Leo.
Plot wise, it was a bit boring. There's basically no conflict, there's a lot of telling instead of showing, and by the time these two figure their shit out, the book is over. It was a very slow meandering that felt repetitive at times.
Overall, it was good, but likely not memorable. I am definitely here for the next in the series and hopefully more of Cora and Leo's HEA.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Cora and Leo. They're both good people, settling into a marriage of convenience...and then had to wait a very long time for any sort of chemistry to show up. I liked the small portions shown of Cora's sisters, but this was firmly the story of Cora and Leo.
Plot wise, it was a bit boring. There's basically no conflict, there's a lot of telling instead of showing, and by the time these two figure their shit out, the book is over. It was a very slow meandering that felt repetitive at times.
Overall, it was good, but likely not memorable. I am definitely here for the next in the series and hopefully more of Cora and Leo's HEA.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
November 20, 2024
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
The Stranger I Wed was a delicious witty historical that led me through a various set of emotions and a powerful journey of our characters, Leo and Cora. This is a story that has the classical elegence blended so beautiful in a gradually built romance to leave your heart shuttering in delight and a sense of poignant longing. It takes a very common ground and blends in such beautiful emotional that tangles so wonderful with history and modernity that will work for all historical readers whether you prefer the modern sensibility or more authenticity to your historicals.
First Line
Fifth avenue was Cora's birthright, but that's only if one adhered to biology rather than social expectation.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Leopold Brendan, Earl of Devonworth
The Heroine: Cora Dove
Summary
Cora Dove, is determined to fight for her family no matter what it may cost her. After receiving a letter from her grandmother, informing her of an inheritance for herself and her sisters. Cora meets with her distant father who abandoned them when they were young as their mother was his mistress. Now he placed a stipulation on their inheritance, she must marry a man of societal caliber and commanding of respect but must not be someone in the America's. So Cora comes with an idea, of heading off to England to find a respectable husband that would pass her father's approval. Leo, the Earl of Devenoworth, is in need of funds. He has inherited an estate, with debts from his family and a desire to serve in politics and assist in passing a public health bill he is passionate about. He then meets lovely Cora, and they share common ground and interests of sort, and they form an attachment and determine to marry one another for convenience. But what starts as just a political logical match, turns into something deeper as their connection builds into friendship and even deeper and much more intimate.
What I Loved
The Stranger I Wed was a delicious tasty morsel of intimacy and a endearing love affair and I gobbled it with pleasure and wit. This is a very slow burn so might not work for all readers. I highly recommend the audio for this one if you can get a copy of it, because I can guarantee it will help get you through the slower moments. While the focus is the romance in this one, its definitely more slowly built but it honestly felt more resonating into what a marriage of convenience would actually feel like. I found this book to be poignant in the character growth that we see from Leo and Cora and the author really balanced our their journey's together. I loved the way in which we see them grow towards each other. They each have their own inner fears and secrets that they keep from each other but despite what is holding them back we also see their connection that just builds into a crescendo with each chapter.
I was most intrigued to see how modernistic this novel would turn out to be. You all know how much I struggle with the modernistic historical's and while there is some aspects of that, there are other aspects of the story that still felt authentic in some ways to the actual time frame and Harper St. George balanced out these elements just right that I feel like this author will work for both sets of readers, but you do need to be a bit open minded to it. I did appreciate that some of the secrets involved in the story wasn't dragged out until the end and that the heroine did come clean with the hero in some ways before it came to light. But I also don't think these secrets were super serious or something that would break their relationship. We also have a great foundation that is built, as they start with common allies, then quickly to friendship and that friendship is slowly woven into something more romantic and intimate.
What really tore me up throughout the whole story was seeing a heroine who is so pragmatic and not needing love at all until she comes to England. One of the couples (from the previous series) enter the story, as she stays with them for a time before she gets married, and there she sees them being so in love, affectionate and tender with each other. We see her crave someone to love and to be loved in return. Neither Leo or Cora have had that type of connection with anyone, and we see that yearning truly grow within each other. And as a reader looking into this story, it struck me so deeply and my heart just ached for these two to find what they both deserved.....someone to match them and fight for them as they both deserved.
What I Struggled With
The pacing is a bit slow at times, its more slow burn so the romance isn't as prominent as I would have liked, and some of the historical aspects was a bit off putting at times.
Narration
Brilliant!!!! I loved the way this narrator handled this story because the accents were softer and not as heavy which I found so refreshing in a historical romance.
Overall View
The Stranger I Wed was a beautiful blend of humor, intelligence, historical relevance and a true testament of the human heart.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Victorian Era
Character Types: Earl, Heiress, Politician
Themes: Pining Heroine, Heart/Emotional Touching, Slow Burn
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Julie Anne Long
Joanna Shupe
Laura Lee Guhrke
Song This Book Inspires
Better Place by Rachel Platten
Recommendation For Reading Order
Standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Saskia Maarleveld
Want to read
August 15, 2023Purple & gold woo!! Calabri-esque font is meh, but the purple and gold is giving "The Lady Tempts An Heir" blue & gold and that's my favourite book of hers (Helena & Max omigod😮💨😮💨😮💨), so perhaps that is a good sign!!
April 25, 2024
This was such a good start to the Doves of New York series. Cora and her sisters have basically been shunned by their father and his family their entire lives. But when their grandmother passes away, a reunion of sorts is set in motion, along with a plan to collect on an inheritance that comes with some contingencies. The sisters set off to England to find suitable husbands.
I enjoyed every aspect of this book. It was actually my first of Harper St. George’s, so I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I was not disappointed, and can’t wait to read more! I loved getting to know the characters, the wit, the spice, the time period and setting, the descriptive writing, and that the author quoted Elizabeth Cady Stanton because she is from my hometown! I’m looking forward to see what else is in store in this series.
I enjoyed every aspect of this book. It was actually my first of Harper St. George’s, so I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I was not disappointed, and can’t wait to read more! I loved getting to know the characters, the wit, the spice, the time period and setting, the descriptive writing, and that the author quoted Elizabeth Cady Stanton because she is from my hometown! I’m looking forward to see what else is in store in this series.
August 23, 2024
I am going to preface this review by saying Harper St. George is an automatic read for me. With that in mind, two things-1) I already knew this would be an enjoyable read for me 2) When we were offered the ARC I jumped on it!
I previously read Harper St. George’s historical romance series The Gilded Age Heiresses and really enjoyed them! This book is technically the first in her new series, The Doves of New York. We enter with our FMC Cora Dove, who is the illegitimate child of a noble. Upon the death of her grandmother Cora is left a large dowry that could change her life with the stipulation she must marry. Enter our MMC Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth. Lord Devonworth is in desperate need of funds to support his ambitions in parliament. When these two run into each other the perfect compromise marriage becomes their mutual solution with the agreement they will divorce after two years of marriage. What could possibly alter that plan?!?!?!!?
As expected, this was thoroughly enjoyable. Please add anything Harper St. George to your TBR. Thanks to Berkley for the advanced copy!
--Kendra
I previously read Harper St. George’s historical romance series The Gilded Age Heiresses and really enjoyed them! This book is technically the first in her new series, The Doves of New York. We enter with our FMC Cora Dove, who is the illegitimate child of a noble. Upon the death of her grandmother Cora is left a large dowry that could change her life with the stipulation she must marry. Enter our MMC Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth. Lord Devonworth is in desperate need of funds to support his ambitions in parliament. When these two run into each other the perfect compromise marriage becomes their mutual solution with the agreement they will divorce after two years of marriage. What could possibly alter that plan?!?!?!!?
As expected, this was thoroughly enjoyable. Please add anything Harper St. George to your TBR. Thanks to Berkley for the advanced copy!
--Kendra
May 28, 2024
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance, PRH Audio, and Netgalley for providing advanced copies of this! All thoughts and opinions are still my own.
I really enjoyed Harper St. George's debut series and was excited to check out this spinoff. Historical is definitely not my most read subgenere, but I loved interconnected series like this.
Unfortunately this one wasn't my favorite. However! I actually quite liked the romance aspect itself.
In this we are following a young woman who needs to marry someone with a title in order to get an inheritance from the father & family that never claimed her as their own. So she strikes up a deal with an Earl who needs the money she can bring to the marriage.
I love a good marriage of convenience romance. The forced proximity aspect just brings such good tension to the romance.
And I really enjoyed this couples chemistry together. I loved the stolen nights in her room, faking the consummation, tense carriage rides... all of it was top tier.
But this book had - quite literally - zero plot. There was nothing driving this story forward. Instead it was 300+ pages of these 2 characters getting to know each other.
They are together from the very beginning. No big drama, just a quick marriage of convenience. And from there it is sharing secrets, meeting the family, attending dinners, and long talks.
While I love a slow, character driven story, this needed something. Because at the end of this book I was left feeling like there was no point to this story. There was no end goal they were working towards. Nothing they needed to overcome. It was just... a play by play of the first few months of their marriage.
Not sure if I'll continue on with this series. Not because I think it's bad. But because it's a genre I reach for so infrequently, and I don't think this series will intrigue me enough to reach for in the future.
I really enjoyed Harper St. George's debut series and was excited to check out this spinoff. Historical is definitely not my most read subgenere, but I loved interconnected series like this.
Unfortunately this one wasn't my favorite. However! I actually quite liked the romance aspect itself.
In this we are following a young woman who needs to marry someone with a title in order to get an inheritance from the father & family that never claimed her as their own. So she strikes up a deal with an Earl who needs the money she can bring to the marriage.
I love a good marriage of convenience romance. The forced proximity aspect just brings such good tension to the romance.
And I really enjoyed this couples chemistry together. I loved the stolen nights in her room, faking the consummation, tense carriage rides... all of it was top tier.
But this book had - quite literally - zero plot. There was nothing driving this story forward. Instead it was 300+ pages of these 2 characters getting to know each other.
They are together from the very beginning. No big drama, just a quick marriage of convenience. And from there it is sharing secrets, meeting the family, attending dinners, and long talks.
While I love a slow, character driven story, this needed something. Because at the end of this book I was left feeling like there was no point to this story. There was no end goal they were working towards. Nothing they needed to overcome. It was just... a play by play of the first few months of their marriage.
Not sure if I'll continue on with this series. Not because I think it's bad. But because it's a genre I reach for so infrequently, and I don't think this series will intrigue me enough to reach for in the future.
May 16, 2024
"The Stranger I Wed" by Harper St. George is a delightful Regency romance that combines the allure of a marriage of convenience with the complexities of societal expectations and personal secrets. Set against the backdrop of New York and England, the novel follows the journey of Cora Dove, a woman burdened by the scandalous whispers surrounding her family's legitimacy, as she ventures across the Atlantic in pursuit of a new life and a husband who values her independence.
At the heart of the story is Cora's arrangement with Leopold Brendon, the Earl of Devonworth, a pragmatic politician with ambitions to enact social change through legislation. Their marriage is born out of necessity rather than affection, yet as they navigate the intricacies of their relationship, they find themselves drawn to each other in unexpected ways. St. George skillfully portrays their evolving dynamic, showcasing their initial wariness and giving way to genuine affection and mutual respect.
What sets "The Stranger I Wed" apart is its exploration of deeper themes beneath the surface of a traditional romance. Cora's passion for women's rights adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the challenges women face in a society governed by rigid patriarchal norms. As Cora and Devonworth confront their secrets and vulnerabilities, they are forced to confront the actual cost of love and the sacrifices necessary to pursue happiness.
St. George's prose is elegant and evocative, transporting readers to a bygone era filled with grand estates, elaborate balls, and whispered intrigues. The vividly depicted settings serve as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama, while the well-drawn characters breathe life into the pages of the novel.
At the heart of the story is Cora's arrangement with Leopold Brendon, the Earl of Devonworth, a pragmatic politician with ambitions to enact social change through legislation. Their marriage is born out of necessity rather than affection, yet as they navigate the intricacies of their relationship, they find themselves drawn to each other in unexpected ways. St. George skillfully portrays their evolving dynamic, showcasing their initial wariness and giving way to genuine affection and mutual respect.
What sets "The Stranger I Wed" apart is its exploration of deeper themes beneath the surface of a traditional romance. Cora's passion for women's rights adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the challenges women face in a society governed by rigid patriarchal norms. As Cora and Devonworth confront their secrets and vulnerabilities, they are forced to confront the actual cost of love and the sacrifices necessary to pursue happiness.
St. George's prose is elegant and evocative, transporting readers to a bygone era filled with grand estates, elaborate balls, and whispered intrigues. The vividly depicted settings serve as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama, while the well-drawn characters breathe life into the pages of the novel.
December 20, 2023
A marriage of convenience or something more? The eldest of three daughters of dubious origin, Cora and her sisters come into a fortune rather suddenly. The stipulation? They must marry Englishmen to unlock their inheritances. Never one for sentimentality, Cora makes a careful plan and travels from New York to London with a clear goal: find a husband and then convince him to divorce her so she can keep her independence. Enter Leo, the Earl of Devonworth and a respected liberal in Parliament whose estates are desperately in need of the money an heiress can provide. A marriage of convenience quickly ensues, but as time goes on, inconvenient feelings start to arise.
At its core, The Stranger I Wed centers around a relationship based on respect. Before they fall in love, Cora and Leo respect each other as individuals and as scholars. Cora helps Leo with his speeches, and he accepts her help and openly asks her opinion. It's easy for the historical romance genre to fall into the trap of all passion and no genuine connection, but the author expertly avoids such a trap, instead setting up a sizzling slowburn that is enthralling as well as romantic.
As a heroine, Cora felt true to period. While she valued women's suffrage and independence, her attitude and approach didn't feel like a modern woman thrown 150 years into the past (which is much appreciated by this reviewer who values attempts at historical accuracy almost as much as the romance). Her strength wasn't so obvious as to be annoying and her wit was never aimed at putting others down.
Leo was a swoon-worthy hero. He respected Cora as her own person and valued her companionship enough to be hesitant to further their relationship. The way he pined for her (guys, the pining in this book is off the charts) never felt demeaning, even though he was detailed in his appreciation. Respect and understanding were built into everything he did, so while he was certainly an honorable Victorian gentleman, his habits wouldn't offend modern sensibilities.
As a fan of Harper St. George's other Victorian romances, I must admit that this was one of my favorites. Cora and Leo are so sweet and believable and I loved that the tension was never forced or worsened by unnecessary miscommunication. Watching previous couples flit in and out of the story was amusing, as was the set-up for the next book. Fans of the Gilded Age Heiresses will not be disappointed!
An e-ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
At its core, The Stranger I Wed centers around a relationship based on respect. Before they fall in love, Cora and Leo respect each other as individuals and as scholars. Cora helps Leo with his speeches, and he accepts her help and openly asks her opinion. It's easy for the historical romance genre to fall into the trap of all passion and no genuine connection, but the author expertly avoids such a trap, instead setting up a sizzling slowburn that is enthralling as well as romantic.
As a heroine, Cora felt true to period. While she valued women's suffrage and independence, her attitude and approach didn't feel like a modern woman thrown 150 years into the past (which is much appreciated by this reviewer who values attempts at historical accuracy almost as much as the romance). Her strength wasn't so obvious as to be annoying and her wit was never aimed at putting others down.
Leo was a swoon-worthy hero. He respected Cora as her own person and valued her companionship enough to be hesitant to further their relationship. The way he pined for her (guys, the pining in this book is off the charts) never felt demeaning, even though he was detailed in his appreciation. Respect and understanding were built into everything he did, so while he was certainly an honorable Victorian gentleman, his habits wouldn't offend modern sensibilities.
As a fan of Harper St. George's other Victorian romances, I must admit that this was one of my favorites. Cora and Leo are so sweet and believable and I loved that the tension was never forced or worsened by unnecessary miscommunication. Watching previous couples flit in and out of the story was amusing, as was the set-up for the next book. Fans of the Gilded Age Heiresses will not be disappointed!
An e-ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
April 23, 2024
The author has written a stunning first book in a new series, The Doves of New York, that completely captivated me. Cora Dove, an American, marries a Brit aristocrat with a title and a grand reputation. Enter Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth, who needs her wealth to save his estate and to fund his efforts in Parliament to establish clean water for the working class. They marry for convenience, and I fell headlong into this slow-burn romance that made me swoon. Histficrom fans will adore this!
June 16, 2024
Not gonna lie, there were a few scenes that even had me blushing which does not happen often in a historical fiction romance.
I received an ecopy of this through netgalley; however all opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this through netgalley; however all opinions are my own.
February 4, 2024
Cora Dove has always lived on the outskirts of society. Being born out of wedlock, her father never truly claimed her or her sisters as his own. And yet, her dying grandmother has left Cora and her sisters an inheritance. There's only one catch - they have to marry in order to receive the inheritance. Cora sets her sights on England to find someone who will be suitable to marry her but also be willing to be married in name only. Cora wants a quiet life of her own - away from prying eyes. Will she be able to find such a match in London?
Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth isn't looking to get married, but he has his own reasons to marry. After considering Cora Dove - he decides to marry her. He hears her proposal for a marriage in name only and agrees. They will both benefit out of the agreement. But their forced proximity has both of them longing to make this an actual marriage - will they agree to their terms of try for something real?
The first part of The Stranger I Wed was so fun! I loved the "meet cute" between Devenworth and Cora. Their relationship was always upfront and honest and I appreciated that. But the slow burn was sooo slow and a good chunk of the middle part of this romance fizzled out for me. I found myself putting it down and not wanting to pick it back up again.
I'm looking forward to reading the stories about Cora's other sisters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
Leopold Brendon, Earl of Devonworth isn't looking to get married, but he has his own reasons to marry. After considering Cora Dove - he decides to marry her. He hears her proposal for a marriage in name only and agrees. They will both benefit out of the agreement. But their forced proximity has both of them longing to make this an actual marriage - will they agree to their terms of try for something real?
The first part of The Stranger I Wed was so fun! I loved the "meet cute" between Devenworth and Cora. Their relationship was always upfront and honest and I appreciated that. But the slow burn was sooo slow and a good chunk of the middle part of this romance fizzled out for me. I found myself putting it down and not wanting to pick it back up again.
I'm looking forward to reading the stories about Cora's other sisters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
February 26, 2024
4.5 stars!
Historical romance was my gateway to my love affair with the romance genre- I've been reading romance now for 30 of my 40 years on this planet. Harper St. George is one my favorite historical romance authors from those who write it currently.
The Stranger I Wed is a wonderful addition to Harper St. George's catalog of titles. There's something about reading about an age long gone, and learning something new, while also learning how much things are still the same.
The story is gripping from the very first page, where Cora gathers the nerve to confront someone with immense power to get what should have always been given. The intensity grows as Cora and Leo cross paths and then enter each other's lives. Watching two strangers grow to know each other and love each other while respecting each other's boundaries and feelings was so satisfying. I loved seeing characters from St. George's previous series, The Gilded Age Heiresses and am extremely eager to read more about the Dove sisters as they find their places in London and happiness.
Historical romance was my gateway to my love affair with the romance genre- I've been reading romance now for 30 of my 40 years on this planet. Harper St. George is one my favorite historical romance authors from those who write it currently.
The Stranger I Wed is a wonderful addition to Harper St. George's catalog of titles. There's something about reading about an age long gone, and learning something new, while also learning how much things are still the same.
The story is gripping from the very first page, where Cora gathers the nerve to confront someone with immense power to get what should have always been given. The intensity grows as Cora and Leo cross paths and then enter each other's lives. Watching two strangers grow to know each other and love each other while respecting each other's boundaries and feelings was so satisfying. I loved seeing characters from St. George's previous series, The Gilded Age Heiresses and am extremely eager to read more about the Dove sisters as they find their places in London and happiness.
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