I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I wDear Mrs. Thornell,
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I was pulled in and just wouldn’t—couldn’t—put it down. You have so masterfully packed a full and delightful story into very few pages. This tender book had me laughing and swooning and biting my nails (figuratively of course, as I am a most proper lady...most of the time) and rooting for my favorite characters.
Meg is such a sweet little character and I just adored her personality. She was really a gem and it was so fun to see her grow in her confidence and personal strength. And of course I love Nathan (excuse me, I mean Mr. Blake, naturally). I do believe he would make for very good drawing room conversation. Of course the silliest girls would giggle themselves sick, while the rest of us (for, of course, I am never silly) will merely swoon and blush from our necks to our hairlines. He really is quite dashing and so dedicated. One cannot help but notice and admire all his wonderful qualities, even if he doesn’t come with a title. But if we are being truly fair, a title is a mere trifle when compared to other important qualities (all of which Mr. Blake has in abundance).
The house party was a perfectly clever backdrop for this lovely story and the guest list was most convenient. You truly thought of everything. My dear Mrs. Thornell, you may consider yourself as having a devoted and loving admirer of your works. I shall sing your praises in every drawing room I enter for the rest of time and look forward most passionately for further offerings from your hands.
Yours ever, Jessica
P.S. I simply must gush with enthusiasm over the very good kissing scene. I could just read it over and over (I’m not blushing; you’re blushing). And the epilogue is what all epilogue dreams are made of!
Quotes I loved (quotes contain spoilers): “Losing continuously can also bring a man pride, you know. It is a mark of consistency.”
Numbers were a safe retreat from the pain she felt. They always made perfect sense. Her eyes grazed the page. Well. They generally made perfect sense.
“Admit it, you would be alarmed if I ever consistently arrived at your front step.” ... Meg retreated to Papa’s desk, standing in front of it, still struggling against her smile. “Alarmed? Unlikely. Relieved more like.” “Ha! You know you love the excitement I bring to your day.”
She spent far too much time gazing out windows these days. “Yes. I know they do it because they love me but...” “But you wish they loved you less?” She shot him a dry look. “No.” Then she sighed. “But maybe, yes.”
The dimple just to the left of her mouth never ceased to set his heart to pounding. He attempted a few surreptitious breaths to calm it. It didn’t work. Belligerent organ.
Nathan swallowed around the lump in his throat. “Of course. I would be delighted.” He would certainly not be delighted.
How could he managed to elevate their friendship when she was being courted by half a dozen men? She was perfect, utterly perfect, and it would not take long for those other men to realize it and wish to make her their own.
How could he ever allow her to marry another when she would be taking his heart with her? How could he watch as she married a man who would not strive to care for and protect her as he would?
Meg needed someone who would recognize her worth, it was true, but more than that, she needed someone who would put her first always, since she would never put her self ahead of anyone. She needed someone who would make her laugh when she was sad and listen when she needed to be heard. And he needed to be that man.
“Me, out of sorts? That of a state of feeling I do not believe in.”
“But you must let her make her own choices. You do not want her to choose you because you are her only choice—you want to be only choice she desires.”
“I think your hair looks perfect.” His voice was pitched low to avoid detection from the party members, and a strange warmth swept through Meg. She laughed it off, tucking her hands behind her back. “That is because I have already fixed it. Go on and join the party. I will follow in a moment.” He looked over his shoulder with a slight grimace. “No, thank you. I much prefer the present company.” She hit him on the arm with the back of her hand. “No, you foolish man. I meant to imply that we cannot enter together. What would everyone think?” “That we were enjoying a romantic repose in the darkened dining room, perhaps?”
“Oh, I assure you I would be just as terrible at loo. It seems I am not destined to be a successful card player in this lifetime. I hope you will forgive my faults.”
The viscount’s coat was far too close-fitting to climb through windows. Which everyone knew was the mark of a true man.
The sun broke through the canopy in occasional pillars of light, and there was that stillness that only nature could provide. It was glorious.
“A man who does not care for his parents is no man at all,” he stated. [Lord Hatfield]
“How did you know I would want to walk in the sun?” Meg said after a minute or two. She lifted her head to the sky, and he slowed his step to allow for her inattention. “Easy—I know you or perhaps it has something to do with you confessing your desire to feel the sun on your face hardly a week ago.”
“Nothing can be out of place, not a hair nor a character trait. She asked me not to inform the party of my illness, you know, or my talent with numbers.” Nathan blinked, then scoffed. “You must be joking. Why would she do that?” “I suppose because they are flaws, Nathan. I only ever saw them as part of me, much as I wish my sickness this last year was not. But I never saw them as flaws.” She shrugged, taking another step away and averting her eyes once more. “That is because they are not!” Nathan stride to her, and when she did not immediately look up, he put his hand under her chin and gently forced her gaze to meet his. She was surprised at the fire she saw there. “Meg, you are the least flawed person I know.
“Yes,” Meg murmured. “I was incredibly lucky he was there. Have you seen him since, Sarah?” Sarah’s lips twitched slyly, and she adjusted a curl that swept down over Meg’a shoulders. “Only about five times, miss. Though I’ve no clue how he got in each time since it wasn’t through the front door.” Meg laughed. That was Nathan all right.
With a small grin, Father leaned around him, unpacking the window. “...I understand this is your preferred way of entering and exciting homes, so perhaps you ought to make use of it and go win Miss Hall’s hands. If not for your sake, then for ours. Your mother and I cannot handle the mopping any longer. The signs are likely to instigate a windstorm at this rate.”
“You are welcome. Now go.” “Now?” Nathan asked, bewildered. Father aimed a snack at his head, but Nathan dodged. “Yes, now. What did I raise, a blockhead?”
“Mr. Blake, what a surprise to see you at the front door. Is everything all right?”
Oh dear. He was going to be so angry when she told him she had decided to marry the viscount. But he did not understand. As a woman, Meg was required to marry not for herself, but for her family. Ladies did not have the freedom to choose their partner based of love and affection as a man might.
Now she has every reason to believe that she could never care for Lord Hatfield in the way she wished to care for a husband. Because after the events of today, the events of the last few months if she were being honest, Meg was fairly certain her heart was already engaged. To Nathaniel Blake.
All at once, Meg’s heart lifted. The anxious energy that had coursed through her the last week and a half settled at je sight of Nathan’s cheeks creased in a smile, gray eyes twinkling, and dark hair falling over his brow as it was wont to do. She loved this man.
“I considered climbing up but did not think it would do to have two of us sporting broken legs.” Nathan laughed, leaning one arm against the windowsill. “While I would have paid good money to see you attempt such a feat, I would have to agree with you on your choice not to.”
“Can you manage the stairs?” Nathan scoffed, feigning annoyance. “Can I manage the stairs, she asks.” He huffed. “It is as if you do not realize what a fine, athletic specimen I am.” Meg laughed. “Oh, I am quite aware.”
Meg stopped in the doorway, not quite closing the door behind her. “You beat me.” “Fine, athletic specimen, remember?” He pointed at himself, smiling. She cocked her head, pretending to consider him, all while her heart beat madly in her chest. “I would guess you had a pair of footmen candy you down.” “If you must know, I employed a long-ago mastered skill of sliding down the main banister.”
“I promised myself I would not act so cowardly again, and so forgive me, as I am sure I am about to overstep a great many lines.” He took a deep breath, and the air between them filled with anticipation. Unconsciously, Meg took a small step closer. His gaze bore into her own; she could not look away. Nathan took a second, almost steadying breath. “I love you, Meg.”
And then, with a full grin gracing his face, he kissed her again until Mrs. Blake peeked her head into the dining room and informed them that they were all anxiously awaiting their news if they did not mind.
“This isn’t fair, you know,” she murmured against his lips. “I know.” He grinned, pulling back slightly. “But how can I help it when my wife is as irresistible as you?”
“Please do not fall whilst climbing up to the nursery window!” Her voice called after him. He laughed, yelling back, “I never fall!”
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Merged review:
Dear Mrs. Thornell,
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I was pulled in and just wouldn’t—couldn’t—put it down. You have so masterfully packed a full and delightful story into very few pages. This tender book had me laughing and swooning and biting my nails (figuratively of course, as I am a most proper lady...most of the time) and rooting for my favorite characters.
Meg is such a sweet little character and I just adored her personality. She was really a gem and it was so fun to see her grow in her confidence and personal strength. And of course I love Nathan (excuse me, I mean Mr. Blake, naturally). I do believe he would make for very good drawing room conversation. Of course the silliest girls would giggle themselves sick, while the rest of us (for, of course, I am never silly) will merely swoon and blush from our necks to our hairlines. He really is quite dashing and so dedicated. One cannot help but notice and admire all his wonderful qualities, even if he doesn’t come with a title. But if we are being truly fair, a title is a mere trifle when compared to other important qualities (all of which Mr. Blake has in abundance).
The house party was a perfectly clever backdrop for this lovely story and the guest list was most convenient. You truly thought of everything. My dear Mrs. Thornell, you may consider yourself as having a devoted and loving admirer of your works. I shall sing your praises in every drawing room I enter for the rest of time and look forward most passionately for further offerings from your hands.
Yours ever, Jessica
P.S. I simply must gush with enthusiasm over the very good kissing scene. I could just read it over and over (I’m not blushing; you’re blushing). And the epilogue is what all epilogue dreams are made of!
Quotes I loved (quotes contain spoilers): “Losing continuously can also bring a man pride, you know. It is a mark of consistency.”
Numbers were a safe retreat from the pain she felt. They always made perfect sense. Her eyes grazed the page. Well. They generally made perfect sense.
“Admit it, you would be alarmed if I ever consistently arrived at your front step.” ... Meg retreated to Papa’s desk, standing in front of it, still struggling against her smile. “Alarmed? Unlikely. Relieved more like.” “Ha! You know you love the excitement I bring to your day.”
She spent far too much time gazing out windows these days. “Yes. I know they do it because they love me but...” “But you wish they loved you less?” She shot him a dry look. “No.” Then she sighed. “But maybe, yes.”
The dimple just to the left of her mouth never ceased to set his heart to pounding. He attempted a few surreptitious breaths to calm it. It didn’t work. Belligerent organ.
Nathan swallowed around the lump in his throat. “Of course. I would be delighted.” He would certainly not be delighted.
How could he managed to elevate their friendship when she was being courted by half a dozen men? She was perfect, utterly perfect, and it would not take long for those other men to realize it and wish to make her their own.
How could he ever allow her to marry another when she would be taking his heart with her? How could he watch as she married a man who would not strive to care for and protect her as he would?
Meg needed someone who would recognize her worth, it was true, but more than that, she needed someone who would put her first always, since she would never put her self ahead of anyone. She needed someone who would make her laugh when she was sad and listen when she needed to be heard. And he needed to be that man.
“Me, out of sorts? That of a state of feeling I do not believe in.”
“But you must let her make her own choices. You do not want her to choose you because you are her only choice—you want to be only choice she desires.”
“I think your hair looks perfect.” His voice was pitched low to avoid detection from the party members, and a strange warmth swept through Meg. She laughed it off, tucking her hands behind her back. “That is because I have already fixed it. Go on and join the party. I will follow in a moment.” He looked over his shoulder with a slight grimace. “No, thank you. I much prefer the present company.” She hit him on the arm with the back of her hand. “No, you foolish man. I meant to imply that we cannot enter together. What would everyone think?” “That we were enjoying a romantic repose in the darkened dining room, perhaps?”
“Oh, I assure you I would be just as terrible at loo. It seems I am not destined to be a successful card player in this lifetime. I hope you will forgive my faults.”
The viscount’s coat was far too close-fitting to climb through windows. Which everyone knew was the mark of a true man.
The sun broke through the canopy in occasional pillars of light, and there was that stillness that only nature could provide. It was glorious.
“A man who does not care for his parents is no man at all,” he stated. [Lord Hatfield]
“How did you know I would want to walk in the sun?” Meg said after a minute or two. She lifted her head to the sky, and he slowed his step to allow for her inattention. “Easy—I know you or perhaps it has something to do with you confessing your desire to feel the sun on your face hardly a week ago.”
“Nothing can be out of place, not a hair nor a character trait. She asked me not to inform the party of my illness, you know, or my talent with numbers.” Nathan blinked, then scoffed. “You must be joking. Why would she do that?” “I suppose because they are flaws, Nathan. I only ever saw them as part of me, much as I wish my sickness this last year was not. But I never saw them as flaws.” She shrugged, taking another step away and averting her eyes once more. “That is because they are not!” Nathan stride to her, and when she did not immediately look up, he put his hand under her chin and gently forced her gaze to meet his. She was surprised at the fire she saw there. “Meg, you are the least flawed person I know.
“Yes,” Meg murmured. “I was incredibly lucky he was there. Have you seen him since, Sarah?” Sarah’s lips twitched slyly, and she adjusted a curl that swept down over Meg’a shoulders. “Only about five times, miss. Though I’ve no clue how he got in each time since it wasn’t through the front door.” Meg laughed. That was Nathan all right.
With a small grin, Father leaned around him, unpacking the window. “...I understand this is your preferred way of entering and exciting homes, so perhaps you ought to make use of it and go win Miss Hall’s hands. If not for your sake, then for ours. Your mother and I cannot handle the mopping any longer. The signs are likely to instigate a windstorm at this rate.”
“You are welcome. Now go.” “Now?” Nathan asked, bewildered. Father aimed a snack at his head, but Nathan dodged. “Yes, now. What did I raise, a blockhead?”
“Mr. Blake, what a surprise to see you at the front door. Is everything all right?”
Oh dear. He was going to be so angry when she told him she had decided to marry the viscount. But he did not understand. As a woman, Meg was required to marry not for herself, but for her family. Ladies did not have the freedom to choose their partner based of love and affection as a man might.
Now she has every reason to believe that she could never care for Lord Hatfield in the way she wished to care for a husband. Because after the events of today, the events of the last few months if she were being honest, Meg was fairly certain her heart was already engaged. To Nathaniel Blake.
All at once, Meg’s heart lifted. The anxious energy that had coursed through her the last week and a half settled at je sight of Nathan’s cheeks creased in a smile, gray eyes twinkling, and dark hair falling over his brow as it was wont to do. She loved this man.
“I considered climbing up but did not think it would do to have two of us sporting broken legs.” Nathan laughed, leaning one arm against the windowsill. “While I would have paid good money to see you attempt such a feat, I would have to agree with you on your choice not to.”
“Can you manage the stairs?” Nathan scoffed, feigning annoyance. “Can I manage the stairs, she asks.” He huffed. “It is as if you do not realize what a fine, athletic specimen I am.” Meg laughed. “Oh, I am quite aware.”
Meg stopped in the doorway, not quite closing the door behind her. “You beat me.” “Fine, athletic specimen, remember?” He pointed at himself, smiling. She cocked her head, pretending to consider him, all while her heart beat madly in her chest. “I would guess you had a pair of footmen candy you down.” “If you must know, I employed a long-ago mastered skill of sliding down the main banister.”
“I promised myself I would not act so cowardly again, and so forgive me, as I am sure I am about to overstep a great many lines.” He took a deep breath, and the air between them filled with anticipation. Unconsciously, Meg took a small step closer. His gaze bore into her own; she could not look away. Nathan took a second, almost steadying breath. “I love you, Meg.”
And then, with a full grin gracing his face, he kissed her again until Mrs. Blake peeked her head into the dining room and informed them that they were all anxiously awaiting their news if they did not mind.
“This isn’t fair, you know,” she murmured against his lips. “I know.” He grinned, pulling back slightly. “But how can I help it when my wife is as irresistible as you?”
“Please do not fall whilst climbing up to the nursery window!” Her voice called after him. He laughed, yelling back, “I never fall!”
Review: Ah, this story was simply delightful and charming. It made me smile. I finishAbsolutely delightful.
Title: A Match Gone Awry Author: Arlem Hawks
Review: Ah, this story was simply delightful and charming. It made me smile. I finished happy. It was a lovely bite of something sweet and I adored every single minute. I’ve long been a fan of Arlem Hawks’ ability to tell story, and it was fun to see how she chose to spin a sweet book, rather than a full-fledged wartime book. To say I was pleased, though not surprised, would describe my feelings perfectly. The setting came alive for me in this book, and though I rarely find myself interested in visiting big cities, I can’t deny I now have a keen interest in visiting Paris. Too bad I can’t visit Paris as it stood two hundred fifty years ago. I also very much want to try the pastries mentioned in this book from a French Patisserie. Anyone living in France want to hook me up? I think Harvey and Gabrielle were both so cute. I loved Gabrielle’s quirky personality and her outlandish plan to save herself from her overbearing and deplorable step-mother. Harvey’s need to rescue Gabrielle and his bumbling way of sometimes going about doing that was simply charming. They felt so real. They had problems, they quarreled, they struggled, they figured things out. And I loved so much that the ending didn’t magically come together with everyone getting what they originally dreamed of. Sometimes a new dream ends up being better overall, even if that wasn’t the original plan. Now we just need Harvey to open a pastry shop, and all will be right in this little world. Long story short: I loved this book so much and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a delightfully written, unique, quick book.
*many thanks to the author for the e-copy. All thoughts about this delightful book are my own....more
I am absolutely, wholly, completely in love. Your book has my heart. Like all of it. I keep thinking about this book, dreaming about it, Dear Deborah,
I am absolutely, wholly, completely in love. Your book has my heart. Like all of it. I keep thinking about this book, dreaming about it, loving it. I think I love it more the longer I think about it.
Winnie is kind of my favorite. I love her journey to figuring herself out, and coming to appreciate her differences from her family. I loved how she claimed things she knew were true about herself (I’m Winnie Freaking Knox!), and was (most of the time) mature enough to know when she didn’t know something and ask for help. Obviously no one is perfect (and she should have asked sooner), but I like her tenacity and desire to do well in the things she does. Her character arc was the best and I love her to pieces! I want to be her friend and go visit her in her grand English estate and watch her improved medieval festival. Pretty sure I need this in my life.
The enemies to lovers aspect of this one was perfect. Matthew’s hot and cold attitude was actually kind of funny. The fact that he was hopelessly attracted to Winnie, but endlessly bothered by her at the same time, made for some fantastic tension and I was here for it! Also, Matthew really is the best. Aside from his prickliness with Winnie, he’s basically perfect (in that imperfect way I love all my favorite heroes and which you write so beautifully). He can push my car out of the mud in his suit of armor anytime. Also, I want to see him joust.
The setting on this was absolute perfection. You had me right in England feeling the weather and moodiness of it, next to the sea, in a clearing, in a horse barn, in a medieval castle. I was completely immersed in the place and thought you did a fabulous job on that!
I loved the tension, and the problems they had, but that they also learned to work together and were humble enough to change. Oh! And I loved Matthew’s group of friends! I loved their friendship, and care for each other. I’ve always loved female friend groups in the books I read, but guy friend groups are sooo good too!
I just love this book. I’m obsessed. I need a reread. I cannot WAIT for book two! And I’m so happy you’re giving us some contemporaries in addition to historicals. You rock this genre!
Your friend, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for the e-copy. A positive review was not required; all thoughts are my own....more
I just adore Jennie’s books. I love her sweet stories, her writing style, her characters, her rich history. I feel that her books are the perfect bridI just adore Jennie’s books. I love her sweet stories, her writing style, her characters, her rich history. I feel that her books are the perfect bridge from Regency era writing and language to modern writing and storytelling. She writes so beautifully, not just in how she puts words together, but in her ability to take difficult situations and work things out for her characters in reasonable and believable ways. And this book did not disappoint. My heart was endeared to Miles from the get-go. I loved his desire for honesty, even if he didn’t always quite make the mark. His confidence in who he was a person, and ability to see goodness in others, and his observation skills were all qualities I adored about him. And yet, for all his goodness, he still had things he needed to work on, which I loved. I liked how Jennie wrote Dorothea’s character. Her desire for a “brilliant” match gave her character a lot of motivation for her actions, and a good chance for a brilliant character arc. I loved how everything worked out in the end, and look forward to the rest of the series. AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Stevie Zimmerman—I really liked this narrator. Her accents and voices were good, even for the male characters, and I appreciated her inflections and emotions. When a character’s voice cracked, or they were excited, you could hear that in the narration. I would listen to this narrator again and would recommend her to anyone who looks for audiobooks. ...more
This book is may be my favorite short story collection I’ve ever read. I love the nod to history, in composing “penny dreadfuls,” similar to what woulThis book is may be my favorite short story collection I’ve ever read. I love the nod to history, in composing “penny dreadfuls,” similar to what would have been written as serials during Victorian England and printed for the poorer classes. It’s quite fun to experience some forms of literature in ways they would have so long ago (though I am quite lucky to have the benefit of the entire story at one time). It’s also a strong nod to Sarah M. Eden’s talent, that she can write each dreadful as if from a different “voice,” and staying so accurate to the historical serials.
These “Penny Dreadfuls” come from Sarah M. Eden’s popular series, The Dread Penny Society, where in each book, two “Penny Dreadfuls” are written from the perspective of characters in the book. They are so well done and a really fun twist on those novels. This book contains many of those stories, as well as three original stories never before published. I genuinely love all of them—and this coming from someone who is not typically a big fan of paranormal.
It’s difficult to pinpoint a single favorite story in this collection. There are so many fun ones! But some I especially love include The Lady and the Highwayman, Higglebottom’s School for the Dead, The Queen and the Knave, Posie & Pru, and On a Sea of Glass.
This is the perfect spooky read for this time of year. I think we will read some of these spooky tales with my children, to get us in the mood for Halloween.
**Thanks to the publisher for the copy. I have provided this honest review of my own volition. ...more
Another winning installment in The House of Oak series that I absolutely devoured! With this book, I saw even fewer options for how things could be woAnother winning installment in The House of Oak series that I absolutely devoured! With this book, I saw even fewer options for how things could be worked out, and per usual, Nichole Van absolutely astounded me with how she resolved all the issues.
I thought Georgiana was such a delightful character. I appreciated her conundrum, and the feelings she had to work through in trying to decide what to do about her life. I loved how real she was. She was the kind of person you could enjoy watching a movie with, complete with oversized pajamas and popcorn, or attend a regency-themed soiree with. Her personality was so enjoyable. She was also so cute, how much of a romantic she was. While I would never find the same kind of thrill she did with mysteries and people skulking about, I loved that part of her personality.
Sebastian is such a sweetheart. I couldn't help but love him! I always love a male protagonist who is head over heels in love with the FMC, and will do anything, go to any lengths to try to help her see him as a potential love interest. He may have been a little rash with his marriage proposals, but I found it endearing rather than annoying. He's the cutest, and so perfect for Georgiana.
I did not foresee who was pulling all the strings and doing such dastardly things until right before the big reveal. And even then, I only guessed, and it was literally right before. Like a couple pages before. Nichole Van wrote that mystery so well that I was fully invested and clueless and it was so good.
The very end of this book made me so happy. I was so glad for the way things wrapped up here. And once again, I cannot wait to read the next in the series!
Audiobook Review: Narrated by Shiromi Arserio -- I've said it before, but I loved this narration! Shiromi is a fantastic narrator and suits this series so well! ...more
This book is absolutely delightful. I adore Jack and Ginny. I love the way their relationship shifts and changes throughout their experiences togetherThis book is absolutely delightful. I adore Jack and Ginny. I love the way their relationship shifts and changes throughout their experiences together. I love an independent woman taking matters into her own hands. I love the mystery, the suspense, the *romance*! This book is truly phenomenal. I’ve now read twice, and it is as much a pleasant experience the second time as it was the first. If you need a good regency romance, with a side of mystery and suspense, and a dashing hero perfectly matched with a feisty heroine, do yourself a favor and read this one. It’s a genuinely incredible book....more
This book was an absolute delight to read. It is chock full of witty banter and clever rejoinders. I could not help but love Gwendolyn and her quick tThis book was an absolute delight to read. It is chock full of witty banter and clever rejoinders. I could not help but love Gwendolyn and her quick thinking. This book is a delicious recipe made up of one cup women’s fiction, half a cup found-family, 8 Tbsp wit and humor, and frosted with a sweet romance. The romance is definitely more subtle, but it is the perfect compliment to the rest of this story. Poor Walter was not prepared for the force that was Miss Gwendolyn Brinley. Their interactions had be chuckling from the very beginning. Gwendolyn is so quick on her feet, she is always two steps ahead of Walter. Just when he thinks he’ll have her bested, she quips with something remarkably witty, and leaves him with the dust swirling as he struggles to figure out how he lost the upper hand. I laughed out loud more than once. And then seeing Gwendolyn interact with Walter’s children just made me smile. As the oldest of a bunch of siblings, I could relate to the desire to jump into a fractious situation concerning sibling rivalry and calm it. I’m pretty sure Gwendolyn is better at it than I am, though. Also, Gwendolyn’s set-down of her grandmother was applause-worthy. Bravo! I loved how naturally, and slowly, Walter and Gwendolyn’s relationship evolved. They both had a lot of preconceived ideas and stubbornly held beliefs they had to reconsider, and the way they did so was lovely. And it’s so different having a romance with children of one of the MCs playing such a big role in the story. I liked it a lot. 4.5 stars
**I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley. I also enjoyed listening to the book via audio, through an app I paid for using my own funds. These thoughts are my own....more
Oh, I adore this book. It spoke to me at a molecular level. I finished in near tears, because I *felt* this book in my bones, in my heart. Dear Kasey,
Oh, I adore this book. It spoke to me at a molecular level. I finished in near tears, because I *felt* this book in my bones, in my heart. The truth is, as an artist (with notes, not paint), it is incredibly difficult not to fall prey to the negative opinions of others. You captured the feelings of an artist so well (though an author is simply a different kind of artist, isn’t it?), and I was wholly engrossed, completely engaged. The words belonged to Charlotte Lucas, but feeling them in my soul, they could have been mine as well.
Okay, enough about me. Back to your book! Let’s talk about Liam. Oh. My. Swooooon! He is seriously good book boyfriend material and I was excited for every single scene in which he was present. From the blind date to the final tulip garden scene, I was a goner on that man. He is the whole bag of chips AND a jar of guacamole. I mean, that’s a terrible metaphor, but also, I have a very deep love for chips and guacamole, so maybe it makes sense. Sort of. Regardless, Liam is the best. Oh, and the chemistry between these two is sizzling! This is a perfect example to me of how a book can still stay clean but offer really good romance. It was crackling! Holy guacamole, I could go for a reread right this second just to drink in more of Liam through the words on the page.
Charlotte is really the cutest and I loved her character arc. I felt like she had become a sister (we’re soul sisters, at the very least) by the end of the book. I don’t think I can tell you how many passages I highlighted in this book. So so many. So many things Charlotte said or thought that made me chuckle, or resonated with me, or were exactly what I would have said. And a girl who is love with Pride and Prejudice? We’re destined to be BFFs. I just adore her! Did I think she was incredibly stupid at one point? Well, yes. But let’s be honest, I’ve thought my biological sister has done stupid things too, and I never stopped loving her. Charlotte completely redeemed herself, and beautifully so, and I love her all the more for it.
The entire storyline is so endearing and adorable and sweet and lovely, and I fell in love within the first couple of pages. Beth, Mariah, Vera, and Charlotte’s parents were all so fun and I cannot express how much I want more books with these people in them.
Seriously Kasey, my love for this book is bursting through my chest and filling me to the brim. I’ve fallen hard for your book. I want all the editions (paperback, hardback [can we make this happen, Covenant?], ebook, audiobook), all the character art, all the inspiration. It has my whole heart. We’ll be basically best buds in my head forever and ever now, partially thanks to this book. Thank you for creating my soul-book.
Ever your friend and devoted fan, Jessica
*Note: I received a gifted copy of this book. A positive review wasn’t required. These thoughts are purely my own....more
Once upon a time, I could not have fathomed reading again a book had already read once. I knew the ending. I knew the plOCTOBER 2023 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:
Once upon a time, I could not have fathomed reading again a book had already read once. I knew the ending. I knew the plot points. There were other books to read. Why read again? Now? Bring on all the rereads. I’m a major fan! It’s a cup of cocoa on a cold day, a fuzzy blanket to curl up with, comfort food on my plate. Rereading a favorite book is a beautiful, incredible experience, and I love it. ...more
This book is so much fun! I am a sucker for time travel. I am a sucker for amnesia tropes. Having both in the same book is a sure-fire way to guaranteThis book is so much fun! I am a sucker for time travel. I am a sucker for amnesia tropes. Having both in the same book is a sure-fire way to guarantee I will be sucked in and hooked from the beginning. And because this is Nichole Van, we also got immersive settings, fantastic character growth, answers to the problems I never could have predicted, and narration that drips with beautiful words.
Emme and James are the perfect couple for one another. I loved how much they needed each other, how they helped and strengthened one another by virtue of their own strengths. I loved the entire family dynamic between James, Andrew, and Georgiana. I loved how Emme assimilated into the Regency time period, feeling as though it was right but also not.
It was just so good. And I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
Audiobook Review: Narrated by Shiromi Arserio -- I LOVED this narration. Hers is a voice that does well with both slower and faster listening speeds, her accents are good, her voices for the characters are spot on and delightful to listen to. ...more
Dear Summer, We’re going to be first-name-basis-friends, okay? Because you’re Summer in my mind and I just can’t call you Mrs. Dowell. We good? I just hDear Summer, We’re going to be first-name-basis-friends, okay? Because you’re Summer in my mind and I just can’t call you Mrs. Dowell. We good? I just have to tell you how much I love Avery and Tyler. I love them! I love that Avery is a workaholic with a genuine love for what she does, driven by maybe a little of fear. I love that Tyler loves what he does. I loved all the wedding and photography talk. I loved the banter. I loved the way their romance developed, their enemies to friends to lovers story. So many things I loved about this one. Here are some more: -That Thanksgiving get together! I love big families in books and I cannot lie. And I loved that. -Olivia! I won’t say anything more because I don’t do spoilers but I love her. -ELVIS! Oh my heck. I’m not even an animal person but I want to snuggle Elvis and dress him in little sweaters. -The food. Gosh, it makes me happy when you authors write food into your books! Did I finish the book with a healthy craving for pecan pie bars? Yes. Did I satisfy that craving? Also yes. -Seeing Hope and Haley more. I just think they’re all so cute and I love the friendships between them! -The bride! She’s a doll and I kind of think she would fit in with the group friends. -The photo developing scene. Oh. My. Lanta. That was some goooood chemistry, right there (and I mean that in the swoony, romantic way, not the literal chemical reaction that develops photos sense).
I absolutely adored this book and this series and can’t wait to see what else you deliver in the future.
Your Elvis fan, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
I can't help it--I loved this book. The characters were so engaging and so well crafted that I fell in love with them. This being a WWII story, there I can't help it--I loved this book. The characters were so engaging and so well crafted that I fell in love with them. This being a WWII story, there are still moments of heartbreaking sadness, but it is also a story of hope and healing.
The narrative style is a little tricky to figure out with this one, as it contains two primary timelines, one historical and the other contemporary, with the historical varying between two different times during/after the war. There are also multiple points of view throughout, so be prepared to get to know multiple people at multiple times.
That said, I would 100% read this book again. Once I got used to the narrative style, I was completely riveted and could not put it down. It is a story that made me feel deeply, and left me believing in the goodness of others. The characters made the story come alive. The prose is beautifully written, and the story poignant, and I felt like I was almost a part of it.
I would recommend this to fans of historical and contemporary alike (while being aware that the multiple timelines and POVs does mean this takes a minute to get acclimated to). Particularly if you enjoy WWII fiction, you should give this one a try.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I also listened to the book on Audio, via an app I subscribe to with my own funds. ...more
This is it. This book has placed me firmly inside the “I love Nichole Van’s books” camp and I am not leaving. I shall camp here forevDearest Lady Van,
This is it. This book has placed me firmly inside the “I love Nichole Van’s books” camp and I am not leaving. I shall camp here forever and always, becoming a permanent squatter. The only time I shall venture out of these walls is to drag others into camp with me. The food is good, the company excellent, and we always sleep amazingly well, excepting when we stay up late to read another book. But who needs sleep when there are such beautiful words to be devoured?
The emotional tension in this book is phenomenal. Each character is suffering from their deep hurts and everything is complicated beyond belief. My heart broke for Sophie. My heart broke for Rafe. My hearted ached for the both of them throughout the story, and then healed slowly as you lovingly and tenderly pieced their hearts and relationship back together.
I loved how things slowly worked their way out. I admit I was getting a bit of anxiety, wondering how on earth any of their problems could end up solved and then bam! You solved them all. Just like that. Not that I doubted you, for I surely didn’t. But I was spending a bit of nail biting time as I waited.
Some other things I loved: -Bluestockings! I want to be called a bluestocking. -Biology and cats. Sophie is a hoot with all her cat analogies! -Sophie’s “dad” is amazing. Good man. -The Simple’s! -The whole scene with the river and climbing the tree and rescuing “half-drowned rakes.” Loved that! -The brotherhood! -Dealing with the dudes following them! -The memory loss of that one guy who shall remain unnamed because spoilers! -The entire time at the old castle! -Fighting for Sophie! -Finally finding a way to get back at Rafe’s deplorable Father! -The banter! ...more
You have utterly stolen my heart with this series. I am completely, wholly entranced. Despite the fact that I am listening to these bDearest Lady Van,
You have utterly stolen my heart with this series. I am completely, wholly entranced. Despite the fact that I am listening to these books, I find myself halting all other tasks to simply sit and listen (which, if you know me, is out of character for how I usually listen to audiobooks). Your prose is beautiful; your storytelling superb; your setting and historical detail flawless. Your heroes are swoony in all the best ways and your heroines are delightful, strong women, who will not let anyone, even these bossy Scots, push them around. I love it!
Ewan is the sweetest gentle giant there ever was. I love that his inner spirit just cannot handle doing what everyone thinks he must do simply because of his massive size. I love that you put a paintbrush in his hand and made him a master of the gentle art of painting. I truly adore him.
You seriously write the best heroines. Violet is absolutely no exception. I love her inner turmoil and how Ewan listens to her and helps her work out solutions. I like how she stands her ground with her father (that man ...more
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