An Unrivaled Match is a delightful Regency love story with feuding families, forbidden activities (as well as a forbidden romance), and an age-old famAn Unrivaled Match is a delightful Regency love story with feuding families, forbidden activities (as well as a forbidden romance), and an age-old family mystery to solve, lending it a Romeo and Juliet vibe.
Serafina is obsessed with horses and riding, and also deals with a childhood injury that plagues her. Headstrong, she is determined to do what she wants, no matter the cost. When a forbidden riding race ends in disaster, she’s rescued by James, a man whose family is feuding with hers and whom she is forbidden to have contact with. I can’t resist a story where these types of traditions are broken.
James has secrets of his own–he’s learning to become a doctor–and his solemn and cantankerous persona are so opposite of Sera’s, yet these two balance and interact with one another in such a pleasing way–ways full of wit, banter, and chemistry.
With an entire cast full of enjoyable characters, secret notes in the wall, blossoming romance, and sleuthing out the mystery of a signet ring, this is an amusing frolic through the pages.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
“Perhaps you might even one day admire me. As a friend, of course.” “Of course. As a friend.”
Lark and Henry completely stole my heart from the very fir“Perhaps you might even one day admire me. As a friend, of course.” “Of course. As a friend.”
Lark and Henry completely stole my heart from the very first page. As both are bird “observing” obsessed, I could easily relate to them and encountered a delightful story. My husband and son are equally fanatical about birding and I’ve been on many trips dedicated solely to finding new birds. I could visualize my son playing the role of Henry and hope he finds his Lark.
“Bird observing is far better when shared with others.”
Lark is restricted by the constraints of society, but manages to find a way around these rules to feed her passion and I loved her ingenuity and dedication to her true love, but it’s the witty teasing and banter between these two that solidified my love for this book. The first meet between this couple had me laughing so hard and their easy, flirtatious interactions are the best, especially when a competition results. Henry is such a wonderful, competitive, sweet man, and I loved all the nature adventures that painted the scene for this plot.
“Nothing helps a lost soul discover solace more than when spending time with Mother Nature.”
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
The banter, fun, and swoony antics run rampant in this sweet historical romance. Sebastian is desperate for a fortune and Selina has no desire to marrThe banter, fun, and swoony antics run rampant in this sweet historical romance. Sebastian is desperate for a fortune and Selina has no desire to marry a fortune hunter.
I couldn’t stop smiling and laughing as these two find themselves tangled time and time again in hilarious situations, allowing for all the wit to emerge, with added zips of chemistry. Pip just may have stolen the show a few times, and the clever way this marmoset was incorporated into the story made it that much more entertaining.
I loved watching these two creative souls and all their mischievous encounters that led to an ingenious conclusion. This author’s voice is a favorite of mine, no matter the genre, and this one is pure joy.
So much fun from start to finish! Many thanks to the author for the review copy.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and voluntarily given*...more
Lady Sarah Denham is such an invigorating character. Not only is she charming and lovely, she’s very straightforward and resourceful. She deals with lLady Sarah Denham is such an invigorating character. Not only is she charming and lovely, she’s very straightforward and resourceful. She deals with life matter-of-factly and exemplifies those traits to those around her.
An impromptu proposal to the new owner of her home, Christopher, delivers a delightful marriage of convenience with so many heartfelt scenes, growth, and beautiful moments. I loved the entire cast of characters and feel this story is one of this author’s best.
I enjoyed the way this story played out and loved the tender messages given within these pages. The romance is believable and inspiring, overcoming all types of obstacles.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given* ...more
As an avid Pride and Prejudice fan, this collection was perfect to deliver the stories of several secondary characters after their time at Pemberley.
IAs an avid Pride and Prejudice fan, this collection was perfect to deliver the stories of several secondary characters after their time at Pemberley.
In the first story, Playing Miss Bennet by Rebecca Anderson, Kitty is in London as a lady’s companion and finds herself both captivated and repulsed by Augustus, a flattering rake. Having been surrounded by so many sisters all of her life, Kitty really doesn’t know who she is and plays the part of each sister as she encounters Augustus. My heart went out to her as I watched her struggle to discover who SHE is. It was truly endearing to watch each of their masks drop as they learned some valuable lessons.
Sisters and Second Chances by Samantha Hastings is everything I hoped it would be. Younger Lydia was so impulsive and now that she’s a widow, she has a second chance to make a difference when she rescues a girl with a fate similar to her own. It was thrilling to see her all grown up, yet she still has that sparkle that makes her fun and lovable. Finding redemption by helping a persuadable young girl choose a path different from the one she walked filled my heart. The love and affirmations Lydia always seemed so desperate for was realized, and this whole story made me see Lydia as more than just a silly girl.
The final story gives us The Colonel's Conviction by Sarah L. McConkie. Darcy’s cousin, Colonel Benjamin Fitzwilliam, falls hard for Georgiana’s companion, Clara. I loved that we were treated to so many cameos of Georgiana and really got to know Benj. The meet-cute is so sweet and funny and there is a lot of fun banter in this story. I adored Benj and his delightful charm and watching Clara learn to open herself up again.
Each story is short and sweet, but fulfills a satisfaction in knowing more about these characters. This is perfect for any Jane Austen fan.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
“If I had to choose someone to be trapped at an abandoned inn in the midst of a torrential downpour with, I’d put you at the very top of my list, Dubh“If I had to choose someone to be trapped at an abandoned inn in the midst of a torrential downpour with, I’d put you at the very top of my list, Dubhan Seymour.”
The Huntresses are some of my favorite ladies and I loved learning more about Eve and her sister Nia. As their family is recently in some financial trouble, only one of them can enjoy a London season and it’s a secret that must be kept. Eve also harbors a secret love and talent that could taint her reputation. When Duke is asked to accompany the sisters to a Christmas house party, he finds himself once again forging the peace with his family in the most undesirable ways.
Honestly, I would be exhausted going to the lengths he goes for such childish family members. I feel beyond lucky to have the grandmothers I did because I would want to cross the vast ocean on a toothpick to escape Duke’s unfortunate relative if I could claim her as family.
I love Eve’s rosy view on life and her capability to ease those around her just as much as I adore Duke’s strength and commitment in swaying strong emotions and behavior. Full of secrets, unprecedented connections and attraction, the strong bonds of friendship, baking, forced proximity on an uncomfortable journey, and that first kiss, this story is sweet, tender, and full of all the sentimental happenings that a holiday spent with friends typically delivers. This whole cast of beloved characters is charming and feels like coming home.
Sarah M Eden is a favorite Regency writer because of her ability to engage my interest and entertain every fiber of my being. I’ll never quit wishing for another Huntresses or Pack tale.
⚠️toxic family members; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
What a beautiful ride it was into this Regency romance mostly set in Scotland. I was immediately drawn i“I fear I have made a bargain with the devil.”
What a beautiful ride it was into this Regency romance mostly set in Scotland. I was immediately drawn into this book and fell madly in love with these characters. Their journey to Graham's distant home is full of romantic tension and challenges, but the central traits of these two characters are firmly established and occurrences in their destination only solidified them.
The cozy routine and happenings in Scotland, especially with Graham’s niece and nephew, warmed my heart, but it was the magnetic pull between this duo that captured the magical essence of this story. There are moments of past trauma to deal with and connections with new friends that made me smile (can I just mention the governess dresses? ...more
“Every minute he spent with Olivia was another minute spent wishing he could have every minute after that.”
I have loved this series and was thrilled t“Every minute he spent with Olivia was another minute spent wishing he could have every minute after that.”
I have loved this series and was thrilled to get Olivia’s story. She has men lining up to marry her for her dowry, but all she wants is for someone to want her strictly for herself. It was so much fun watching her deter everyone, even going as far as refusing to dance at Almack’s! She’s a strong character with a tender heart.
Alex lives under his older brother’s thumb and knows what it means to cross him and his wishes. When said brother, a duke, sets his sights on Olivia and wants Alex to get him in with the Calloways, it’s a battle between family, heart, and self-respect. I was immediately charmed by Alex and admired him so much.
This slow-burn friendship-turned-romance swept me off my feet and a few sudden twists stole my breath. I love the way Dana LeCheminant captures the essence of this era and complex family dynamics that were most likely more normal than not.
“There. It was done. From this point forward, she would obey his rules of matrimony.”
The Matchmaking Mamas is one of my most favorite Regency romance “There. It was done. From this point forward, she would obey his rules of matrimony.”
The Matchmaking Mamas is one of my most favorite Regency romance series ever. From the very first intriguing and unique meet cute between Lord Grumpy (aka Ian) and Amie to the very last page, I was hooked and fascinated by what in the world could possibly happen next–especially as Amie is so unpredictable. This story is full of humor, heart, and happiness, with tinges of challenges and angst.
Ian is determined to stay true to his cause and not give in to feelings of love or family, yet…who can resist the charming and irresistible Amie? They enter a mutually beneficial arrangement of marriage that is more than either of them bargained for and they quickly discover the rules they set for themselves are easy to smudge. I was addicted to the romantic friction, every conversation, each situation, and all the fizzy build up of swoon that resulted in these two interacting. So many of my favorite tropes were present: grumpy sunshine, one bed, forced proximity, and more.
Anneka Walker does such a beautiful job of creating and telling this story. I may have highlighted tons of passages and they now live rent-free in my head.
All the heart-eyes and love for this installment of the series.
Content: mild romance; talk of infidelity
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
This is a delightful comedy of errors–Regency style. Sophronia decides to meddle in all the romantic situations when she writes an anonymous letter stThis is a delightful comedy of errors–Regency style. Sophronia decides to meddle in all the romantic situations when she writes an anonymous letter stating that a gentleman is about to marry the wrong woman. With everyone seeking her advice, she finds herself smack in the middle of so many comical and disastrous circumstances, which leads to such a fun and highly entertaining story.
I love the way this author writes and it was bewitching to watch everything unfold. The characters are captivating, the situations are magical and the plot is hilarious. I enjoyed listening to this one from start to finish.
“Use the magic inside of you, and this marriage will be a grand adventure.”
I was completely enchanted by this tale and couldn’t quite decide if the ma“Use the magic inside of you, and this marriage will be a grand adventure.”
I was completely enchanted by this tale and couldn’t quite decide if the magic was real or perceived, but why not? I’m going to believe because don’t we all have a bit of magic inside of us?
When a whimsical and mystical meeting happens in the woods between Bluebell and stranger Nathaniel, reputations are compromised and a marriage is forced. I was intrigued throughout this whole story, immersed in the whimsy, attraction, and characters who don’t quite know what to do with one another. Trying to make sense of a complicated situation and struggling to come to know each other was a process…and a grand adventure at times…but also an extremely fun journey.
I loved the fairy and bluebell aspects, as well as Godmother. This whole book is so dreamy and is such a unique twist on a Regency story.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
“Two such repelling opposites had no business being together.”
When Richard’s great-aunt makes conditions to him receiving his inheritance, he buckles “Two such repelling opposites had no business being together.”
When Richard’s great-aunt makes conditions to him receiving his inheritance, he buckles down to try and find a wife and who better to help than his younger sister’s best friend? Anneka Walker has written a hilarious and sweet Regency romcom and it’s utterly adorable.
Richard and Grace have such fun and witty banter, especially as they use riddles and barbs to rile one another up. The underlying electricity is so volatile and every interaction, particularly the scandalous ones, are a blast to read about. I adore the characters and the way this story develops.
This time period is so intriguing to me and I love reading about the traditions and every-day life surrounding the holidays. Rushing into a marriage with particular specifications forces a heart to make a choice rather quickly and the outcome is completely satisfying.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
This sweet and wholesome Regency romance was everything I expected it to be…and more. I didn’t bargain for the mystery that infiltrated Anna’s life, cThis sweet and wholesome Regency romance was everything I expected it to be…and more. I didn’t bargain for the mystery that infiltrated Anna’s life, causing her to go on an adventure in search of her brother.
The unlikely cast of characters meshed so well and the pacing was wonderful. As with any book I read, I lived for the gentle romantic interactions and fell for James and Anna’s budding relationship.
Karen Tuft does a beautiful job of crafting this delightful tale.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy and also paid for a copy to listen to. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
“Any man who will always give you the last bit of pie is the best sort.”
Colin and Mercy have such a fun marriage of convenience. They’ve known each ot“Any man who will always give you the last bit of pie is the best sort.”
Colin and Mercy have such a fun marriage of convenience. They’ve known each other forever and an inheritance ultimatum from a great-aunt, a mud splattering event, and a desperate desire to marry before all the younger sisters, spurs this couple to rush into the “I do’s” and it couldn’t be more fun as they each navigate their ways to their happily ever afters.
The ins and outs of meshing two similar, yet vastly different, lives together isn’t easy and I love the way Kasey Stockton blends these two. The give and take, push and pull is both highly entertaining and endearingly heartwarming. Watching the layers peel away, revealing two vulnerable humans beguiled me. Colin is very handsome and meticulous but meshed perfectly with Mercy’s kind, giving, and serving nature.
This is a series that has my heart and I loved every page of this one.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
“He was running to the unknown, to the things he could not paint, to the words he could not say–the chance to accomplish something of worth. He did no“He was running to the unknown, to the things he could not paint, to the words he could not say–the chance to accomplish something of worth. He did not know what. Nor where. But he would not cease searching until he did.”
When Simon chooses to forgo the life his father planned for him, an arranged marriage with Georgina is also rejected. His escape takes him to the unknowns of America, which results in a new family, riddled with tragedy.
I adored the characters. Georgina is so winsome and charismatic, yet she’s jaded from her match gone wrong. I desperately wanted her to find her happiness and my heart was so happy to see her interact with Simon’s sweet children, John and Mercy. Simon has to learn hard lessons, but conveys such persistence in pursuing justice and uncovering all the secrets.
This Regency romance is full of suspense and wisps of mystery, leading to many dangers, and this author does a tremendous job of creating characters worth rooting for and both desperate and tender situations. I was constantly guessing throughout. While there are many hardships and struggles, the strands of hope are present. I flew through these pages and loved them all.
The Matchmaking Mamas is one of my most favorite Regency series. Anneka Walker never fails to bring a charming and delightful story that has all the rThe Matchmaking Mamas is one of my most favorite Regency series. Anneka Walker never fails to bring a charming and delightful story that has all the romcom feels and laughs, along with the sweet and tender romance I’ve come to expect.
In this installment, independent Jemma decides to honor her grandmother’s last wish and try to get herself matched with a certain gentleman, but she has no idea how to win him over. She asks her dear friend, Miles, who is also a rector, for help, not knowing his deep and true feelings for her.
There are so many vulnerable moments, along with many laughs and adorable situations. I fell head-over-heels for these characters and couldn’t listen to this story fast enough. With dual narration, the narrators bring this book to life and are fantastic voices. I loved everything about this one!
Each book in this series holds a place in my heart and I can’t wait for more!
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary audio copy through Netgalley from Dreamscape Select. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
“She could not kiss a duke, but William…surely, she could allow herself to kiss William.”
Based on a true story? Yes, please! Right from the very start“She could not kiss a duke, but William…surely, she could allow herself to kiss William.”
Based on a true story? Yes, please! Right from the very start, I was hooked, as it starts with the newly appointed Duke, William, coming upon a man who is auctioning off his wife, Clara. Apparently, this was a thing among the lower class back in the Regency times and I can’t even imagine.
Clara has always been a maid and I love how capable and confident she is, yet those romantic nigglings just won’t let her be. She readily adapts to all the situations she’s placed in and battles a forbidden attraction, while maintaining professionalism and protecting confidences. William is such a gentleman and works hard to find acceptance in his new role, while still treating others with respect. I adore the way these two mesh and interact together, complementing each other’s stations in society, as well as personalities. I love the misadventures of this duo!
Martha Keyes always does such a great job in bringing to life a beautiful tale full of entertainment, swoon, knowledge, and satisfaction.
Content: mild romance; mild moments of blackmail/drunkenness/gambling; touch of suspense
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*...more
(3.5 Stars) I could relate to some of the characters in The Vagabond Vicar in one way or another and in this case, especially the vicar. I sometimes h(3.5 Stars) I could relate to some of the characters in The Vagabond Vicar in one way or another and in this case, especially the vicar. I sometimes have a plan of what I want to have happen in life and when it doesn't go my way, I try to make the best of it, but secretly long for more. That's just what the vicar, William, does. He dreams of spreading the good word to people in exotic places, where they are dying for the truth. Unfortunately, he finds himself stuck in England, and in a small town set it its ways. Despite his best efforts to be reassigned, he has to stick it out for awhile. Since he's not sticking around, he doesn't plan on love.
As in most small towns, there are some interesting characters. Mothers are lining up to make a match between the vicar and their daughters and he does a good job of evading them. The men try and reject him, until he makes it clear that he doesn't want to stay. The Barringtons are an interesting bunch, as is their maid, Amy, who also happens to be good friends with Cecilia.
Cecilia goes against the grain and doesn't give much thought to being a proper young woman. She is definitely unique, yet beautiful, and is easily distracted. She's determined not to fall for the young vicar, just as he's determined not to fall for her. There's a subtle humor to the story, as well as bits of mystery and intrigue that captures the reader's attention, but it is a gently flowing story.
The romance is sweet and the characters are entertaining. I especially enjoyed the interactions between William and Cecelia, because I never quite knew what I was going to get.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Merged review:
(3.5 Stars) I could relate to some of the characters in The Vagabond Vicar in one way or another and in this case, especially the vicar. I sometimes have a plan of what I want to have happen in life and when it doesn't go my way, I try to make the best of it, but secretly long for more. That's just what the vicar, William, does. He dreams of spreading the good word to people in exotic places, where they are dying for the truth. Unfortunately, he finds himself stuck in England, and in a small town set it its ways. Despite his best efforts to be reassigned, he has to stick it out for awhile. Since he's not sticking around, he doesn't plan on love.
As in most small towns, there are some interesting characters. Mothers are lining up to make a match between the vicar and their daughters and he does a good job of evading them. The men try and reject him, until he makes it clear that he doesn't want to stay. The Barringtons are an interesting bunch, as is their maid, Amy, who also happens to be good friends with Cecilia.
Cecilia goes against the grain and doesn't give much thought to being a proper young woman. She is definitely unique, yet beautiful, and is easily distracted. She's determined not to fall for the young vicar, just as he's determined not to fall for her. There's a subtle humor to the story, as well as bits of mystery and intrigue that captures the reader's attention, but it is a gently flowing story.
The romance is sweet and the characters are entertaining. I especially enjoyed the interactions between William and Cecelia, because I never quite knew what I was going to get.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*...more
Gretna Green has always been associated with scandal in my mind. Why did people truly take a jaunt across the Scottish border to wed? Did they usuallyGretna Green has always been associated with scandal in my mind. Why did people truly take a jaunt across the Scottish border to wed? Did they usually leave notes? Was it easy to make to make the journey? Was it really scandalous? Well, in this collection, there are a few different reasons and they're all quite delightful.
SAVING GRACE is a story of second chances and misunderstandings. It's refreshing to see characters who shun the Ton and are happy with their choices in life. Royston and Helen have a history together and it was fun to watch them reconnect in a race against time.
FOOLS RUSH IN had me smiling and laughing. Richard eavesdrops on Eliza and comes up with a plan to serve them both. I loved the way these characters kept the humor up with their spur-of-the-moment stories. Their chemistry is sweet and I loved the journey to Gretna Green.
A LADY OF SCANDAL was the frosting on the cake for me. Bridget has no desire to be married again, or even in a relationship, but when she constantly encounters Hugh, her deceased husband's cousin, she realizes that first impressions aren't always accurate. This story is truly delightful with its subtle chemistry and great characters.
Content: mild language; mild romance, with some vague mentions of scandals and mistresses
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and I was not compensated for them.*
Merged review:
Gretna Green has always been associated with scandal in my mind. Why did people truly take a jaunt across the Scottish border to wed? Did they usually leave notes? Was it easy to make to make the journey? Was it really scandalous? Well, in this collection, there are a few different reasons and they're all quite delightful.
SAVING GRACE is a story of second chances and misunderstandings. It's refreshing to see characters who shun the Ton and are happy with their choices in life. Royston and Helen have a history together and it was fun to watch them reconnect in a race against time.
FOOLS RUSH IN had me smiling and laughing. Richard eavesdrops on Eliza and comes up with a plan to serve them both. I loved the way these characters kept the humor up with their spur-of-the-moment stories. Their chemistry is sweet and I loved the journey to Gretna Green.
A LADY OF SCANDAL was the frosting on the cake for me. Bridget has no desire to be married again, or even in a relationship, but when she constantly encounters Hugh, her deceased husband's cousin, she realizes that first impressions aren't always accurate. This story is truly delightful with its subtle chemistry and great characters.
Content: mild language; mild romance, with some vague mentions of scandals and mistresses
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and I was not compensated for them.*...more
Trust is a difficult thing to regain once it has been lost and Amy is learning that lesson firsthand. Wronged by a man, she struggles to trust anyone Trust is a difficult thing to regain once it has been lost and Amy is learning that lesson firsthand. Wronged by a man, she struggles to trust anyone of that gender. Her life has been difficult lately, especially as she strives to find the balance between being a new mother and finding her place in society. Her newly rekindled friendship with Henry is a beautiful thing.
I liked Henry and the patience he shows towards a sometimes aggravating Amy. I love how their friendship slowly grows and really enjoyed watching them deal with the secrets that are unearthed as the story progresses.
There is some content that may be difficult for some readers to experience and it does cast a slight shadowy cloud over a good chunk of the story, but it's rewarding to watch the characters work through these hard issues. I enjoyed the story and know things like this must be talked about, but I relish the light and fluffy escapes best.
Content: mild romance (kissing); mild language used somewhat frequently; mild+ violence (vague talk of death, rape, etc)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Merged review:
Trust is a difficult thing to regain once it has been lost and Amy is learning that lesson firsthand. Wronged by a man, she struggles to trust anyone of that gender. Her life has been difficult lately, especially as she strives to find the balance between being a new mother and finding her place in society. Her newly rekindled friendship with Henry is a beautiful thing.
I liked Henry and the patience he shows towards a sometimes aggravating Amy. I love how their friendship slowly grows and really enjoyed watching them deal with the secrets that are unearthed as the story progresses.
There is some content that may be difficult for some readers to experience and it does cast a slight shadowy cloud over a good chunk of the story, but it's rewarding to watch the characters work through these hard issues. I enjoyed the story and know things like this must be talked about, but I relish the light and fluffy escapes best.
Content: mild romance (kissing); mild language used somewhat frequently; mild+ violence (vague talk of death, rape, etc)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more