A Foolish Proposal - Review

A Foolish Proposal (The Gentlemen's Gamble, # ?)

By: Kasey Stockton

Publication: February 5, 2026 by Golden Owl Press

256 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--One careless remark. One outrageous proposal. One Season to discover love where they least expect it.

Caroline Whitby needs a husband. Unfortunately, her charmingly infuriating neighbor Tristan Shepherd just ruined her best prospect—and then had the audacity to propose himself. If only she didn’t despise him and his insufferably flirtatious grin.

***The Gentlemen's Gamble is a series about seven men racing to the altar in order to avoid losing a wager. Starting January, the books will release in surprise order so as not to give away who the final bachelor and loser of the wager is.

Tristan and six of his friends (including his twin brother) are on the way home from their Grand Tour when their boat is caught in a storm that the friends think will result in their deaths. Spurred on by the seriousness of the situation, the friends make a gamble about which will be the last friend to get married. The last unwed bachelor ends up paying all of the others 100 pounds each. The friends returned safely, and the wager is forgotten, until one friend sends letters around to all of the others that he has successfully married and is expecting his winnings. Since then, two others have also gotten married.

Tristan needs to marry well to secure his future. His older brother is the heir to their family estate, so he can't depend on that for his income. So he's decided that it's about time to start looking. Only shortly into his search, he unintentionally ruins the marriage prospects of Caroline Whitby, who was a neighbor growing up. He knows her well and commented on her dislike of horses, which the man she was hoping would offer for her loves to the point of talking about them all the time. That man feels like he's been lied to and takes a step back from courting Caroline. Unfortunately, Caroline has to marry for money also. Their family has been economizing after her father made some bad investments. So, despite Tristan stepping up to try to fix the mistake he made by ruining her marriage prospect, he just doesn't fit the bill. Caroline does agree to allow Tristan to help her recover her lost suitor. And she will help Tristan look for a suitable wife. The only trouble is, Caroline's crush on Tristan from when they were kids isn't quite as vanquished as she hoped.

Favorite quotes:

-"When I am that lonely, do not allow me to find companionship by meddling, Caro. I am relying on you to keep me properly occupied."

-"I had not intended to renew a proposal so abhorrent to you."

A Jane Austen reference if ever I heard one.

-he rather wondered if she liked toads more than she had led him to believe.

-"Will you marry me, Caroline? Even though I am not a toad?"

-"My love is not transactional."

Tristan and Caroline's story hasn't been my favorite so far. That belongs to Tristan's twin brother, Charles & Marie. But I still blew through this book. I haven't read anything by Kasey Stockton yet, and as these series with multiple authors are designed to, I certainly will be seeking out more of her books in the future. A Foolish Proposal gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Foolish Proposal? What did you think? Let me know!

A Presumptuous Hope - Review

A Presumptuous Hope (Daughters of the Gentry, # 3)

By: Jennie Goutet

Publication: September 12, 2024 by Millefeuille Press

272 pages

Genre: Adult, Regency, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

Source: Listened to for free from the author's YouTube channel (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Who declared that every lady of a certain age must of a certainty wish for marriage? Who said a handsome man of fortune might command any woman he pleases for the role of wife?

In the quiet countryside of Lincolnshire, Christine Grey is perfectly content with her life of spinsterhood, finding solace in the companionship of her beloved animals. In the tranquil routine of her days, she spends time with her married friends and puts up with her brother who would try the patience of a saint. Content in her independence, she asks for nothing more.

Alexander Thorne arrives in Horncastle a newly minted knight and owner of the long-dormant Ashbourne—an estate, which borders the Greys'. His aspirations to prove his worthiness lead him to pursue the life and sport of a country gentleman, and through it a clash with his pretty neighbor. His arrival stirs whispers among the locals, and skepticism in Christine’s heart.

When circumstances force them into a compromising situation, they have no choice but to face the necessity to wed. To their surprise, the connection between them deepens even as doubts continue to linger. Christine wonders if her hopes for a happy marriage are too presumptuous, particularly for a woman of her station. Alexander must grapple with his own insecurities as he strives to be husband to a woman as worthy as Christine.

A Presumptuous Hope is a companion book in a series. I think it's probably 3rd in the series (Daughters of the Gentry), but Goodreads didn't list it as part of a series, so it was hard for me to determine it's exact location within the series. I am only using the relationship statuses from side characters that have their own books which take place prior to this book as a guide to determine the order. But I didn't know any of that before starting A Presumptuous Hope.

Christine lives with her brother. She handles his household business as if she is the mistress of the house. Yet she also enjoys getting her hands dirty with things like cleaning, gardening, etc. She also has a love for animals--specifically dogs. When she and her dogs are almost run over by a man gallopping through the woods, she's immediately put off by someone who would endanger her beloved dogs.

Alex is new to the area and has recently taken up residence in the neighboring estate to Christine and her brother. Alex and Christine have a handful of awkward and perhaps off-putting experiences. I found this to be a fun twist on enemies-to-lovers. They aren't enemies exactly, but there's definitely a level of dislike or at the very least awkwardness between them.

Alex and Christine find themselves in an abandoned hut one night when on the way to a country ball or event of some kind (I can't remember the details). They arrive seperately, but Christine nearly drowned in the process of escaping the rising floodwaters. Alex cannot abandon her. Unfortunately, they are compromised simply from being alone together. Circumstances push Alex to propose, yet Christine doesn't want to force anyone to marry her. I appreciated her stance, especially given their initial interactions. Yet I also liked the view of how even the friends and family of the two parties involved suffered the mistreatment of others as a result of her decision to refuse Alex's proposal.

I listened to A Presumptuous Hope on audio, so I don't have any quotes to share with you. This was a quick and fun story--exactly the type of book that I enjoy breaking up some heavier or longer books with a change in genre and tone. A Presumptuous Hope gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read (or listened to) A Presumptuous Hope? What did you think? Let me know!

Winterset - Review

Winterset

By: Tiffany Odekirk

Expected Publication: October 7, 2025 by Shadow Mountain

272 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--A hidden past. A house with secrets. And one chance for two wounded hearts to find love together.

Northern England, Late Fall, 1820

Katherine Lockwood is hiding for her life in the most unlikely of places: the forgotten priest holes in the abandoned Winterset Grange manor house. When Kate learns that Winterset’s long-absent owner, Mr. Oliver Jennings, is about to return, she is desperate to find a way to make him leave, even if it means “haunting” him from behind her protective walls.

After a grand tour of the Continent, Oliver returns home to England determined to make the most of his inheritance. But from the moment he arrives, nothing is as he expected. His manor is in disrepair, the steward hired to care for his estate is a thief, and to top it all off, Winterset is haunted. Undeterred, Oliver resolves to reclaim his life, piece by piece.

When Oliver discovers the hidden rooms, he’s shocked and pleased that his “ghost” is actually a beautiful young woman. Captivated by Kate and her story, he invites her to stay at Winterset under his protection.

Yet, danger persists as the man who threatens Kate’s safety learns of her ruse and attempts to exact his revenge. Kate and Oliver find themselves ensnared in a perilous game of cat and mouse against a powerful opponent while also trying to untangle their blossoming feelings in this enthralling gothic Regency romance.

I loved Summerhaven. And I have been looking for a new release from Tiffany Odekirk since. It's been over three years since Summerhaven. And I wasn't even sure if this would be connected to the previous book or not, but it is. Oliver was a front and center character in Summerhaven. He's finally decided to settle down and take care of the estate he's received through his inheritance. The only issue is that it's in disrepair. And he's been paying a man to be the steward over the estate for two years, only to find out that he's been swindled, and the man was simply taking his money and not fixing Winterset at all.

Katherine was a tenant of Winterset when her father passed away. She has reasons for hiding out at the estate, and the two remaining servants are determined to do whatever they can to protect her. She is determined that all she needs to do is convince Mr. Jennings that the estate is haunted, and that will scare him away. Then she can return to living in peace.

I thought I would like this part of the story more than I did. But I guess I kept getting frustrated with Katherine's antics, and I knew Oliver would be a gentleman with her. So I found myself frustrated more often than not in the beginning. I did appreciate seeing Damon, Hannah, and their family briefly towards the end.

Some pieces of Winterset felt too over the top to me, but those pieces are spoilers, considering much of this story is shrouded in mystery. I don't want to reveal too much.

The only sentence I highlighted had to do with my predictions of a piece of the mystery, so I won't reveal those.

I'm glad that Oliver finally got his story. And I'm looking forward to more from Tiffany Odekirk. I wouldn't mind a little less mystery, but that's a personal preference for me. Winterset gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read Winterset? What did you think? Let me know!

Splendor of the Land - Review

Splendor of the Land (The King's Men, # 3)

By: Connilyn Cossette

Publication: August 5, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

400 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Gavriel, a soldier in the elite company of Yonatan--son of King Saul--dreams of forging his destiny through crafting weapons with his own hands. Despite earning his place among Israel's finest, he is haunted by a dark past that no distraction can dispel. When his reckless behavior forces Yonatan to present him with an ultimatum, Gavriel is sent on a mission to persuade a distant tribe to sever their ties with the Amalekites.

Zahava, a gifted goldsmith hidden behind her father's legacy, lives in the shadows due to her physical affliction. Her talent, unmatched and unrecognized, is a closely guarded secret within her family. Disheartened by a love that seems unattainable, she resigns herself to a life of obscurity. However, when Gavriel arrives in her village, they're tangled together in a way no one could have imagined. As they navigate through unforeseen dangers and enemy threats, Gavriel must confront his past and either bend his knee to the One True King or lose his love forever.

Set against the backdrop of ancient Israel, bestselling author Connilyn Cossette breathes life into the Old Testament era with this exhilarating tale of redemption, courage, and sacrifice.

Gavriel is a character that I've struggled with in the previous books. Zevi and Gavriel didn't seem to care about Shalem being missing when Avidan brought them evidence that he might have survived when they thought him dead. But then Zevi also has an experience that lends more credibility to this. Yet Gavriel is so wrapped up in his own ambitions that he doesn't pursue Shalem. This is a running subplot that ties all of the books together. It isn't the right time for the boys to pursue Shalem, so they don't. But their reasoning doesn't leave me feeling good about any of it.

Gavriel has been a part of Yonathan's (Saul's son) unit, but he's turned to women and drink more and more. Yonathan is sick of it and sends Gavriel on a mission with his friend Emmet. It's "complete this mission well or you're done." The mission is to relocate a group of Kenites away from Amalekite territory before Saul comes in to destroy the Amalekites.

Zavah has been learning her father's metalworking craft as he's slowly going blind. It's a secret that a woman is working in this way. And he's also passing down family trade secrets on how to create red-gold pieces, mostly used in jewelry. Zavah thinks she wants to marry her father's apprentice Rahm as he's the only man she believes will allow her to continue working in this way. Of course, we know that Gavriel would be amenable to that since he, too, has a metalworking background. And we find out that Rahm is more interested in making money and growing his powerful connections than in Zavah.

Zavah and Gavriel are forced to marry, but I do love a marriage of convenience or forced marriage story. Even though neither party wanted this marriage, I love how they both adapted to it quickly to make the best of their situation. Gavriel immediately becomes protective of Zavah and assumes his role as the protector without hesitation. They don't jump into a physical relationship, but the two team up pretty quickly and steadily head in a promising direction.

Now I will say that Zavah makes a decision that causes conflict that must be overcome. The decision is one of self-sacrifice that I suppose is honorable even if it isn't well thought out. These actions frustrate me. I don't find them heroic. Mostly, I just think of how many other people will be put in jeopardy to save you from yourself. But I suppose it was necessary to advance the story.

Favorite quotes:

-For those who feel unseen: The One who lit the stars aflame is calling you by name.

-But sometimes, when I stared at the vastness of the starry host above and listened carefully, it was as if there was a knowing deep in my bones I could not explain. As if the reverberation of an ancient whisper still trembled there at the core of my being--a tune hummed so low only the most astute of ears could detect its melody.

-"Compassion cannot come at the expense of obedience. Yahweh is God above all others, able to discern the heart of each man and woman. He can see what we cannot--past, present, and future. So we must trust the Creator, even when it makes no earthly sense, or suffer the same consequences as those destined for destruction."

-"My father always says Yahweh doesn't give us what we actually deserve, or we'd have nothing but sorrow. He gives us just what we need, even if we don't understand his reasons at the time."

-"Our family legacy is not things we make with our hands. It's our faithfulness to Yahweh."

I didn't really see where the title fit the story. I felt like that was slapped on there at the end. However, I did love the redemptive journey that Gavriel went on. I appreciated how his perception of his stepfather's actions was so far off from what was real. I loved the relationship between Gavriel and Zavah and how quickly they became a team working toward a shared goal. Splendor of the Land gets 4 Stars. I can't wait to see what Shalem has really been up to in the next book. Have you read Splendor of the Land? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for Marrying the Matchmaker

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Marrying the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match, # 4)

By: Jody Hedlund

Expected Publication: February 3, 2026 by Bethany House Publishers

336 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--As the middle child of the Shanahan family, Zaira does her best to keep the peace. She doesn't share her dream of becoming a published author with her family to spare herself their disapproval. When she's caught in a scandal involving the local matchmaker, Bellamy McKenna, she must put her storytelling ability to good use and feign a match with him to avoid wagging tongues and her parents' anger.

Feeling the growing pressure to marry as a well-known, yet single matchmaker to St. Louis's Irish community, Bellamy reluctantly agrees to a temporary match with Zaira. But even though the matchmakers in his family might be able to find love for others, they have a history of disastrous relationships for themselves. When secrets and danger force Zaira and Bellamy to work together, is it finally the matchmaker's turn to be lucky in love?

Hedlund delivers another captivating romance with sizzling chemistry in this romantic conclusion to her beloved matchmaking series.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Can't Wait for The Forever Cowboy

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

The Forever Cowboy (Noble Ranch, # 1)

By: Jody Hedlund

Expected Publication: October 7, 2025 by Northern Lights Press

? pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--After running away from her wedding and hiding for months, Violet Berkley is back home in the high country of Colorado. Her father’s gambling debt has caught up to him, and he wants Violet and her sister to help him pay it off by working as dancing girls in a saloon. Rather than face such degradation, Violet seeks out the one man she hopes might be willing to help her.

Sterling Noble doesn’t want anything to do with Violet after being jilted at the altar by her. He doesn’t want to see her, be near her, or even speak to her. But when she shows up on his doorstep in desperate straits, he’s too kind—and maybe still too in love with her—to do anything but protect her.

Violet knows she doesn’t deserve another chance with Sterling, but she wants to prove she’s a new woman. But has she really changed, or are the insecurities still there? Sterling tries hard to resist his old feelings for Violet because his broken heart can’t take another beating. But as the danger closes in, he’s afraid he’ll lose her all over again.

Runaway bride, Jilted groom, Second chances, Stuck together, Pretend engagement, Enemies to more, Cowboy shoot-out. The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

A Wager with the Matchmaker - Review

A Wager with the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match, # 3)

By: Jody Hedlund

Publication: May 6, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--After her brother's entanglement with an Irish gang threatens their family's safety, Alannah Darragh flees St. Louis and her troubled past, seeking refuge as a maid for the affluent Shanahan family. Alannah's resolve to avoid romance is tested by the undeniable attraction she feels for Kiernan Shanahan. Determined to maintain her position and the safety it provides, she vows to resist the pull of her heart despite the growing bond between them and their undeniable chemistry.

In the wake of a devastating fire, Kiernan Shanahan sees a shrewd opportunity to invest in a clay mine and brickyard to aid the city's rebuilding. To secure his venture, he seeks a wealthy bride with a substantial dowry. However, the matchmaker he consults has different plans. As danger looms and Alannah fights to keep her brother safe, Kiernan's protective instincts draw them closer together, but a future with him seems too far out of reach. It will take a miracle--or a wager with the wily matchmaker--to bring the unlikely couple together.

Be swept away in a tale of love, danger, and destiny in this captivating historical romance from bestselling author Jody Hedlund.

So I've read 12 books by Jody Hedlund. After a while, you start to get a feel for an author. Some of her books I've rated 4 Stars and some 3 Stars. I don't think I've had a 5-star book from her yet, but she's been consistent. One of the things I like about her is that her books are clean, often Christian fiction, yet they don't deny physical attraction and longing. She can bring some yearning into her books. At the same time, the last three I've read by her (including this one), felt almost like a formula. They each felt either lacking in an area that I couldn't describe, or they felt rushed. I did miss the second book in the A Shanahan Match series. I hope to come back to read it eventually. 

Basically, Alannah is being sheltered at Kieran's sister's house as a maid. Her brother got entangled in an Irish gang upon arriving in St. Louis. Unfortunately, that means his loved ones are in danger from the backlash of his trying to get away from this gang. Kieran is attracted to Alannah and wants to see her settled and protected. Of course, he doesn't immediately consider himself as an option for protecting her, even though he takes on the responsibility of finding her suitable work. Sometimes I'm all about forbidden love stories, and other times I'm frustrated with the characters for making poor choices. I found that I was unhappy with the characters choosing to spend time together alone in what would have been a compromising position had they been discovered. Yet. I wanted to root for them at the same time. 

Favorite quotes:

-"The only sure thing about luck is that it will change."

-"You never miss the water till the well has run dry."

-"We cannot be blaming the problems we create on God."

-"God could turn His nose up at us for all the times we think we know best and go our own way. But He doesn't. Instead, He's there offering to help clean up our problems and walk with us through them."

-"Maybe you're expecting God to answer your prayers the way you think He should when He's actually answering the way He knows is best."

-"Doncha be prodding me along without telling me where you're pushing me."

All of that being said, A Wager with the Matchmaker was not my favorite Jody Hedlund book. They can't all be the best. I have been a little frustrated with the last three books that I've read by her, yet I still plan to read more because I've read enough of her books to know what she's capable of writing. A Wager with the Matchmaker gets 3 Stars. I'm looking forward to Bellamy & Zaira's story. Have you read A Wager with the Matchmaker? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for A Bachelor's Lessons in Love

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

A Bachelor's Lessons in Love

By: Sally Britton

Expected Publication: April 30, 2025 by Pink Citrus Books LLC

? pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--A reluctant guardian. A determined spinster. A battle of wits that might just end in love.

Former military officer Edward Halstead never imagined his quiet bachelor existence would be upended by the unexpected guardianship of a spirited young lady. When his late comrade’s daughter, Daphne Price, is placed in his care, Edward is faced with a challenge unlike any battlefield he has ever encountered, especially with her fiercely protective aunt, Felicity Price, staying in his home to ensure he doesn’t fail in his duty.

Felicity has dedicated her life to her beloved niece, and she has no intention of leaving Daphne in the hands of a gruff and emotionally distant bachelor. If Edward Halstead believes he can simply house, feed, and marry off her niece without regard for her well-being, he is sorely mistaken. Felicity will remain at Briarwood House as long as necessary to ensure Daphne’s future and to make certain Edward doesn’t ruin it. After all, she doesn't want her niece to end up a spinster...like Felicity.

With Felicity and Edward at odds over Daphne’s upbringing, propriety, and the girl’s future, tension sparks and tempers flare. Yet, beneath the clashes and differences of opinion, an undeniable attraction grows. As Daphne’s entrance into Society looms and Edward’s past resurfaces in unexpected ways, Felicity and Edward must decide if their partnership is merely one of convenience or if love has been the lesson they’ve both been waiting to learn.

Perfect for fans of witty banter, slow-burn romance, and fiercely independent heroines, A Bachelor's Lessons in Love is a Regency romance filled with heart, humor, and unexpected love. Part of the Bachelors of Blackstone's series, the books may be read and enjoyed in any order.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

A Yorkshire Carol - Review

A Yorkshire Carol (A Christmas Match, # 3)

By: Jennie Goutet

Publication: November 11, 2021 by Millefeuille Press

203 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christmas, Regency, Clean Romance

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--The heart is deceitful above all things. Who can understand it?

When Juliana Issot’s godmother invites her to spend the month of Christmas for a house party in Yorkshire, Juliana feels compelled by affection to accept. Never mind that she escaped Yorkshire at first chance to secure a more glittering match in London, and the only matrimonial prospect at home is her childhood playmate, Willelm.

Willelm Armitage is a born and bred Yorkshireman, and as far as he is concerned, Juliana belongs here, too—and at his side. However, the one time he tried to convince her of this, she speedily gave him the right-about, making him question whether she truly was the right choice for him. After all, if she cannot see how well they suit, he is not about to force her hand.

A Christmas house party with pudding, games, charades, riding, and carols turns out to be just the thing to remind Juliana of how much she loves Yorkshire. But when her nostalgia slips into love will she be able to admit that Willelm knew the longings of her heart better than she knew her own?

I listened to Yorkshire Carol on audio back in the fall of 2023. However, when it came time to write my review I couldn't remember enough about it. I kept putting off my review so long that I decided to re-listen to it since I knew I enjoyed it the first time and it's a short book so I knew it wouldn't take long. I am so thankful to Jennie Goutet for posting it to YouTube. 

The A Christmas Match series is written by several authors: Jennie Goutet, Sally Britton, Laura Rollins, Jen Geigle Johnson, and Laura Beers. I have only read listened to two of these books because they are available on YouTube audiobooks. The others aren't that I'm aware of. Each author has set her book during Christmas time and each book includes a matchmaker facilitating a match. 

Juliana comes from York but has been enamored with London and fashionable society. She desired to escape York and branch out into the world of sophistication. Her godmother has been after her to visit and circumstances occur that would make it rude for Juliana to turn down her invitation to spend Christmas with her godmother at her house party. Unknown to her, but her godmother is trying to play matchmaker. She hopes for Juliana to match with her old friend, Willelm. 

Willelm followed Juliana to London during her first season. He sought her out at dances and such only for her to tell him that she didn't come to London to dance with her playmates. Willelm was heartbroken because he had been hoping to make Juliana his wife. He sees this Christmas house party for what it is--his last chance to show Juliana that he is the right man for her.

Juliana is reminded of the things she loves about York (and Willelm). She never left because she hated the place, but she still loved London. The two don't have an entirely direct path to happiness. And I liked the way Jennie Goutet worked in the actual Christmas carol to fit the title. I also liked that Willelm explored all his options as Juliana wasn't reciprocating at first. He didn't want to force something that wasn't right for her. Jennie Goutet worked this angle well. Juliana was forced to face the idea that Willelm might not always be waiting on her. The old adage "you don't know what you've got until it's gone."

Yorkshire Carol was good enough to listen to twice. I originally rated it 4 Stars, and I stand by that rating after a second listen. I liked Juliana and Willelm. And I enjoyed seeing them each come to view each other as their match. I want to continue this series, but I don't know if I will considering the other books aren't on YouTube audio. Have you listened to (or read) Yorkshire Carol? What did you think? Let me know! 

A great choice to get you in the mood for the holiday season.

Lady Anna's Favor - Review

Lady Anna's Favor

By: Karen Tuft

Expected Publication: November 26, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

272 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--London, England, 1814

Lady Anna Clifton will stop at nothing to find her missing brother—even if it means working alongside the dashingly handsome but sometimes infuriating Mr. Jennings, who just might steal her heart.

Lady Anna Clifton has arrived in London with a purpose known only to a few. Her soldier brother has been reported wounded and missing in France, and if he is dead, his title and their family’s estate will go to a horrible distant cousin, and Lady Anna will be homeless. Desperate to find her brother alive, she contacts old family friends, the Bledsoes, who vow to help her in any way they can. However, Lord Bledsoe’s efforts come up empty, except from the Duke of Aylesham, who offers his yacht to carry her to France when Anna decides she must look for her brother there herself.

James cannot board the Duke of Aylesham’s yacht to take him to France fast enough. After his sister’s rushed marriage to the duke himself, James wants nothing more than to enjoy a relaxing journey back to Paris before rejoining England’s diplomatic war efforts against Napoleon. When he boards the ship, he cannot deny his instant attraction to the strikingly beautiful young woman who will be joining him across the sea. But when he receives only a cold reception from her, James dismisses her outright—until he learns the tragic reason she has set out on such a perilous journey. As infuriating as Lady Anna’s brash behavior and indifference to him is, her search seems much too dangerous for a young lady of the ton to undertake alone, so James reluctantly offers to assist her in her quest.

Together, they embark on a search that will take them across the sea and through France to uncover the truth all while trying to reconcile their differences and the preconceived notions they have about each other. With every step, they come closer to solving the mystery surrounding Lady Anna’s brother’s disappearance—but each step also pushes their hearts closer together.

First, I wish this book was listed as at least 3rd in a series. There could be even more prior books that I'm unaware of. But I've read The Duke Meets His Match and An Accidental Romance. These books all have connecting characters. James is the lead male character in this story. His sister Rebecca was the leading female in An Accidental Romance. And then James's sister Susan married the Duke of Aylesham in The Duke Meets His Match. I'd at least like to know all of the books that are connected to these stories. 

I've read multiple historical fiction books where a character had a family member or loved one lost during the war. But I can't say that I've ever read any Regency books where the lead female character actually left the country in search of their lost, potentially dead, sibling. I almost couldn't believe that Lady Anna actually went so far as to search for her brother in a foreign country physically. But I'm thankful that even with the help of two male companions (one a servant and one a good-hearted gentleman) the road was filled with challenges and complications. 

Anna is kind-hearted, but she puts her poor servants through it sticking to her mission to hunt down her brother who was injured or killed in the line of duty. Thankfully, James sees that Lady Anna is completely outside her abilities and will face many obstacles and potential danger if she pursues her mission. He can't let her go alone, especially because neither she nor her two servants speak any French. James takes on the mission to help her find her brother. 

There were a lot of mishaps and misfortunes along the way, and I wasn't sure if her brother would be there when they reached their final destination. Wondering if he would be there propelled me even more than wondering if Anna and James would ever acknowledge the tension between themselves. 

Favorite quote:

-"But the sight of the rising sun fills me with awe and reminds me of good days in the past and better days to come."

I can't say that Lady Anna's Favor was my favorite book. Not by far. I did enjoy it. But I probably won't remember the details in the coming days, unfortunately. Sometimes the plot can drive me more than the romance, but those don't seem to be the books I love or the ones that stick with me. Lady Anna's Favor gets 3 Stars. Have you read Lady Anna's Favor? What did you think? Let me know!

To Charm a Lady - Review

To Charm a Lady (The Cartwells, # 2)

By: Joanna Barker

Publication: June 6, 2024 by Rose Petal Press

294 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance, Regency

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Cora Atherton wants nothing more than to finally fall in love—real love, not the unrequited sort. When she is invited to attend a house party without her disapproving, overbearing mother, Cora leaps at the chance, desperate to make a match of her own. That is, until she finds that Oliver Cartwell is also attending the party. Oliver, the boy she has loved since she was a girl and the man she is determined to forget.

A house party in the country is just what Oliver needs to distract himself from the shadows of his past. When he discovers that Cora, his sister’s best friend, is in need of a little matchmaking, he resolves to help her in her search for a husband. He quickly learns that no man is good enough for her, least of all himself. Why, then, does he find himself fighting his attraction to gentle, beautiful Cora at every step?

As the two draw closer together, Cora is forced to confront the feelings that have tortured her for years. With her future on the line and a deadline fast approaching, can she trust that flirtatious Oliver has changed for the better—or will he leave her heart in pieces once again?

Cora and Oliver's story was setup in A Game of Hearts. Oliver was in a flirtatious relationship with Cora and Marigold's friend, Sylvia, until she chose not to support Marigold when her reputation suffered a small blow before she and Tristan got engaged. Sylvia never did choose to reconcile with Marigold. Thus Oliver and Cora both cut ties with her. Oliver has been a party boy, not taking life or his responsibilities too seriously. 

Cora has loved Oliver since she was about ten. But her mother is overbearing and refuses to say anything nice about Oliver. She doesn't view him as a serious young man and assumes he will make a terrible husband no matter who he marries. When Cora's mother injures her leg and cannot attend a house party as Cora's chaperone, Cora jumps at the chance for Lady Englefield to play chaperone for her. Cora wants so badly to find love from without the heavy burden of her mother's disapproval. 

I think what I liked most about this book was that there were few truly awful characters. Of course, there's Oliver's friend and the married lady continually hitting on Oliver, but other than that, all of the other characters just felt normal and human and mostly "good". Oliver's parents, although loving, still said something hurtful that he overheard, and has affected him deeply. Cora unintentionally leads on Lord Stanton. Lord Stanton and Oliver have a history from their school days, but even now, he seems to have matured and doesn't take offense to plenty of things he could have. Oliver has made poor choices in his youth but finally sees his need to change. Lady Englefield wasn't as attentive of a chaperone as she should have been, but her overall goodness shines through. Cora's mother is only tainted by her own experiences and hurts and mostly wants her daughter not to be hurt by an irresponsible rake. I could go on, but I think I've made my point. The characters were not perfect, but you could see goodness shining through most of the time.

The only quote I highlighted:

-"You are too easily deceived, Cora," Mother said. "You know so little of this world, of what people can truly be like." "Perhaps," I said. "But I do not think I will ever regret being generous with my good opinion. I would much rather be kind than indifferent."

I barely touched on Cora and Oliver's relationship or their journey to each other. I haven't even touched on what each must overcome. But I will tell you that it was worth the journey. It was enjoyable every step of the way. Most of us can relate to having unrequited feelings for someone else at some point. And that makes this story one that anyone can relate to. To Charm a Lady gets 4 Stars. I can't wait to see who gets a story next. Have you read To Charm a Lady? What did you think? Let me know!

A Game of Hearts - Review

A Game of Hearts (The Cartwells, # 1)

By: Joanna Barker

Publication: October 6, 2022 by Rose Petal Press

321 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance, Regency

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--If you can't join them, beat them.

Marigold Cartwell has only one to defeat her long-time rival on the archery field. She knows she can outshoot irritating, cynical Tristan Gates, but the local bowmen’s society—the one he belongs to—refuses to allow women to compete. Spurred on by their rejection, Marigold decides to start a new society. Naturally, it has only one no men.

Tristan Gates is used to Marigold Cartwell always getting her way, so he is far from surprised when she forms her own society. He knows how relentless she can be, something he learned firsthand facing her at the targets. But Tristan has enough worries of his own, what with his bachelor uncle falling in love with a fortune hunter. He has no time to entertain Marigold’s ambitions.

However, after a visit to the seashore ends in disaster—and scandal—Marigold and Tristan soon realize how little they know about each other. The strained tension between them quickly turns to simmering attraction, but an important archery competition looms ahead. Lines are drawn all around them, with Marigold and Tristan on opposite sides, and neither can afford to lose. Yet winning might be the very thing to tear them apart.

Joanna Barker is a sneaky author in that I often don't see much marketing for her books before they are released. Some I have found on NetGalley, but often not. Some of her books slip up on me even though I regularly check my repeat authors for upcoming books. A Game of Hearts snuck up on me. I would have loved to have read this one back when it was published, but here we are.

A Game of Hearts reminded me of Highcliffe House by Megan Walker. Marigold and Tristan have an antagonistic relationship. Marigold thinks Tristan thinks he's a better archer than her, but he generally annoys her. Tristan thinks Marigold is spoiled and used to getting what she wants. He thinks that no matter the rules of society or the situation, she will steamroll ahead until she gets whatever she wants. Often, enemies-to-lovers stories have hints of flirting, but the interactions between Marigold and Tristan weren't backed by romantic tension at first. That is until the trip to the seashore alluded to in the description.

But let's back up. Marigold is the 2nd child. She has a sizable dowry. Yet her parents were a love match, and she hopes for the same. She had one season in London and came back with an interested suitor who is likely to propose soon if given more time in her company. But most of all, Marigold has a passion for archery. And she's good. She practices constantly. Her goal has been to be accepted into a local archery club that only allows men since only clubs are allowed to compete in prize tournaments. When she sees that this isn't happening, she creates a women's club for archery and has a surprising turnout.

Tristan is the heir to his uncle's estate. His uncle is widowed, but he's young enough yet to remarry. Tristan has been living with his uncle since his parents passed away. And he's worried that his uncle is being led into a relationship with a potential fortune hunter. Tristan loves archery too, but he has more on his plate than archery at the same time. But that's easy to say when he's allowed into the club and the prize tournaments because he's male. Marigold is often an annoyance to him, but he finds himself trapped in a position of doing the honorable thing or not.

I liked that Marigold and Tristan didn't have a typical start. Both were opposed to marriage to each other at first. But circumstances pushed these two together, and I liked the work they had to put in to come out on the other side stronger. But hey, I'm a sucker for forced marriage storylines.

A Game of Hearts was a solid, enjoyable book. I liked that Tristan and Marigold mostly misunderstood each other, and were opposed to any relationship at first. I like to see what couples are forced to go through to make things go from nonexistent to allies to team to happily married. A Game of Hearts gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Game of Hearts? What did you think? Let me know!

Appointment in Bath - Review

Appointment in Bath (Somerset Stories, # 4)

By: Mimi Matthews

Publication: June 27, 2023

288 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--A chance meeting between the sheltered daughter and the forward-thinking son of rival Victorian families sparks a forbidden romance in USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews's fourth book in her acclaimed Somerset Stories series.

Shy and stammering Meg Burton-Smythe has spent the whole of her life living on the fringes of local society. She's more comfortable with her daydreams than she is with people. But when a dashing, golden-haired hero rides to her rescue one morning, she dares to hope that her dreams might finally come true. There's only one her handsome rescuer is the son of her father's sworn enemy.

Ivo Beresford doesn't believe in clinging to the past. Freshly returned from a lengthy grand tour, he's looking to the future, eager to spearhead the building of a new railway extension in Somersetshire. But an unexpected encounter with Meg Burton-Smythe, the isolated only daughter of his parents' oldest foe, sets the past and the future colliding.

Resolved to put ancient grudges to rest-at least where innocent young ladies are concerned-Ivo encourages lonely Meg to embark on a secret friendship. After all, what harm can a friendship do? It isn't as though there's any danger of the two of them falling in love...

I've been looking forward to Appointment in Bath since reading Return to Satterthwaite Court since Ivo and Meg's story overlaps with Kate & Charles's. Plus, Mimi Matthews is one of my auto-buy authors. Knowing the backstory between Maggie, Nicholas, and Fred, my immediate reaction to a relationship between a Beresford & a Smythe-Burton was that it could never work. So, of course, I needed to find out how Mimi Matthews would make this work.

Meg couldn't be more likable. She starts the book as meek and shy. But I love it when she discovers her backbone. She avoids the extreme of following in her father's footsteps of plain meanness or vindictive behavior. Meg is a strong female lead even when she doesn't seem that way. Her stammer and uncertainty about how others view her causes her to appear weak, but that's surface level. When the rubber meets the road, Meg stands up for herself against those closest to her and those she wants closest to her. She knows when she deserves to be treated better.

Ivo is almost singularly focused on progress. He's a visionary. He sees where improvements could be made all around him. And his two biggest visions are on moving forward and leaving the past between his parents and Meg in the past and planning a railroad expansion into their home village. Ivo's tunnel vision gets him in trouble when he doesn't notice the feelings of others that he's steamrolling right over.

Fred is probably the biggest curiosity. What will his reaction be to Meg having a relationship with a Beresford? Surely, he has to respond in some underhanded way, either regarding the relationship itself or Ivo's business venture. I won't give things away, but I liked how Mimi Matthews handled things in this area.

Favorite quotes:

-"It's because you'll have faced what you feared. Every time we do so, we emerge stronger for the experience. It's a proven fact."

-"The important things are often difficult to say."

-"He m-may not love me, but he doesn't strike me. He doesn't lock me away in the tower." "A low bar."

-"Is love not something you need?"

-"But he m-might say things. He m-might lose his t-temper." "So what if he does. His words can't harm me."

-"I must blame the mistletoe. Potent stuff, that."

-"You're more than your circumstances."

-"Humans have an infinite capacity for change. We've no need to fear it. To change is to survive."

As always, I enjoyed Appointment in Bath and read it in about two days. Mimi Matthews is one of my favorite authors. Her characters are always deep and multi-layered. Meg and Ivo were no different. And I enjoyed getting to see Fred in quite a sorry state. Our actions do have consequences after all. And now I can't wait for James and Hannah's story, coming soon. Appointment in Bath gets 4 Stars. Have you read Appointment in Bath? What did you think? Let me know!

A Mistletoe Mismatch - Review

A Mistletoe Mismatch (A Christmas Match, # 4)

By: Sally Britton

Expected Publication: November 23, 2021 by Pink Citrus Books, LLC

182 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance, Christmas

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--If Jessica and Ellis can put the past behind them to work together, it will be a Christmas miracle. Childhood enemies fight to end one relationship while trying not to fall into one of their own.

Christmas comes but once a year -- a relief for Jessica Nettle, because that means she need only see the horrid Mr. Webb when he visits his cousin. Jessica has been at war with Mr. Webb for as long as she can remember. What started as children playing pranks has grown to a competitive feud. This year promises to be the worst of all, especially when Jessica learns that her sister is falling in love with that cousin. A match between the two of them would be a disaster.

Ellis Webb spends every Christmas in the country with his cousin. The holiday is one of the highlights of his year, despite the prickly Miss Nettle's attempts to ruin it for him. This year, Ellis's cousin has a mind to marry, and he's looking with increasing interest at Miss Nettle's younger sister. Such a marriage, with such a family, will surely end in disappointment and broken hearts. When Miss Nettle proposes to Ellis that they join forces to keep the ill-fated couple apart, he swallows his distaste and agrees to her plan.

Amid the merriment of celebrations, Jessica and Ellis scheme to keep two hearts apart. But as the days pass and the magic of season works upon Jessica, she realizes she may have lost her clever game -- and her heart -- to her childhood enemy.

A Mistletoe Mismatch was the cutest story. Jessica's family has always been close with their neighbors. I can't remember their last name, but Franklin is the oldest of the neighbor's sons, and Ellis is his cousin. Ellis has been coming to spend the summer and Christmas with his cousins since his youth. Jessica developed a crush on Ellis, and when she was 14 or 15, he broke her heart. She has been pranking him ever since.

Jessica is a flawed character, it's true. She got hurt, and she's sought to hurt Ellis in return ever since. Normally, I'm against this behavior. But since we don't learn everything at once, I found their rivalry funny. The pranks she's pulled made me giggle. Of course, I would never condone someone behaving this way in real life. And Ellis was so patient with her, never retaliating in return. He doesn't have a clue why they went from childhood friends to rivals.

But the two make a truce in order to sort through the business of Franklin's pursuit of Jessica's sister. Again, I can't remember her name. And since I listened to the audiobook instead of reading this one, I can't just so look it up easily. Regardless, Jessica's dismissal of Frank's interest was a little annoying--perhaps the most annoying part of the book to me. But I guess she had some trauma she needed to unpack before she could wrap her head around it. Ellis wanted to ensure his cousin wouldn't change his feelings and damage a long-standing relationship between the two families.

I loved Aunt Temperance and her little dog. I liked how her meddling was helpful and impactful for one sister and painful for the other. Sometimes good intentions still cause pain.

When all is said and done, I enjoyed this enemies-to-lovers tale. Jessica grows in much-needed ways. Ellis also sees where he's been wrong in the past. Two happily-every afters. What's not to like? A Mistletoe Mismatch gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Mistletoe Mismatch? What did you think? Let me know!

A Duchess for the Duke - Review

A Duchess for the Duke (Claivoir Castle Romance, # 0.5)

By: Sally Britton

Expected Publication: April 1, 2023 by Pink Citrus Books

100 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--The Duke of Montfort takes a wife.

Gregory Dinard, a young duke caught unprepared for his role, needs a companion. When he meets Cecilia, he knows she has the grace and intelligence his duchess will need.

Lady Cecilia never expected more than a marriage of mutual benefit, but she's still surprised when the duke proposes an alliance between them.

Will love find a place in this practical arrangement?

This is the prequel novella for the Clairvoir Castle Romances series. Available on Amazon Spring 2023.

Gregory & Cecilia have been the sweetest parents to the main characters of the Claivoir Castle Romance series. They have been background or side characters that have led with strength, honor, and dignity. They have shaped the lives and character of their children and shown them a love that each child wants of their own. But how did these two characters' stories begin?

Because this is a novella, I don't have a ton to say about it, so this review will be short and sweet like this story.

Gregory's father has recently passed, and he is thrust into the role of Duke. He has been focused on all of his tasks and responsibilities required of him, but he is realizing that he does need to take a wife. His mother has come up with a list of women she thinks he should look into. And Gregory doesn't take long to zero in on Cecilia. Her personality and character show her an excellent option for a Duchess.

Cecilia has never been a social climber, so she never envisioned marrying a Duke. When Gregory approaches Cecilia, she thinks he's just appeasing his mother and can't be seriously interested in her as a partner and wife. When she realizes he's serious, she sees the advantages of marrying a Duke. She had no idea that her dreams of architecture would come in handy to restoring the ancestoral home of, nor did she realize that she would fall completely in love with her husband.

The Claivoir Castle series is a light-hearted and fun series. It isn't supposed to be heavy with drama or conflict, and sometimes I find that this is exactly what I need to be reading right now. And Gregory and Cecilia's romance was exactly the light and heart-warming experience I needed. Jessica Elisa Boyd does a wonderful job, as always, narrating this series. A Duchess for the Duke gets 4 Stars. Have you read (or listened to) A Duchess for the Duke? What did you think? Let me know!

A Fall from Grace - Review

A Fall from Grace (Clavering Chronicles, # 1)

By: Jennie Goutet

Publication: April 7, 2020

244 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--She needs a champion. He needs one less person to worry about.

Selena Lockhart comes with neither fortune nor connections, and she knows better than to expect Society to give her a welcome—especially after her father gambled away his fortune, precipitating the family’s sudden fall from grace and Selena’s betrothed to break off the engagement. It therefore comes as no surprise that her new neighbor, Sir Lucius, treats her with disdain. Why should he look beyond appearances when her own promises so little?

Sir Lucius Clavering is not married, but he may as well be, considering he is expected to escort his widowed mother to watering holes, round out the numbers at his married sister’s dinners, and come to the aid of his scapegrace younger siblings. It doesn’t help that single women and matchmaking mamas jostle each other for his face, fortune, and title so that he’s left without a moment’s peace.

When Selena shows up at Lucius’s doorstep looking for help, he is sure it’s another ploy aimed at cutting up his prized bachelor existence. Although his prejudice does not last long, Lucius fears his first reaction might have ruined his chances with her. How can he save her from Society’s teeth when she continues to hold him at arm’s length?

Nearly 3 months have passed since I finished this book. I've been utterly terrible about writing book reviews this year, and I'm sure you guys are tired of me saying this nearly every review. Unfortunately, I don't remember a ton of the details when it comes to this book. Here's what I do remember.

Selena's family has fallen out of the good graces of the ton. Her family is no longer wealthy enough to be part of higher society. She has gone to live with her aunt, I believe, to work as a companion. I can't remember if she was only to be a companion to her elderly aunt or also working as a governess/companion to her aunt's charge/ward. And, of course, I can't remember the girl's name. Regardless, she is nearly wanton. She throws herself at Sir Lucius Clavering every chance she gets, but he isn't the only one. Selena is run almost ragged trying to balance both tasks set before her. And her aunt holds her responsible for what her charge does even when Selena is at her aunt's side helping her. How she can be in two places at once is beyond me, but it seems to be expected of her.

Also living with them is the new duke/earl (sheesh, I can't remember). He inherited when Selena's uncle passed away. He's a man who lives above his means and gambles away whatever funds he has left. And if he's not careful, what happened to Selena's family is going to happen to his also.

Debutantes and their mothers have been trying to lock Sir Lucius into a marriage for years. He hasn't been interested, but Selena shows herself to be different from all those who are trying to ensnare him. She doesn't seem to want anything from him beyond friendship, and even that is not something she's actively pursuing, given the difference in their social standings now. But he can't help but be pulled towards her.

The side characters were rich and came off the page. Lucius's sister Miranda with her snobbery, Philippa with her easygoing and sincere nature, George who still needed to grow up a bit. I would say I look forward to their stories, but I've already listened to them and have reviews to come for them as well.

Overall, A Fall from Grace was such an enjoyable listen. I wanted to smack Lucius in the head a few times. I felt so bad for Selena having to face her old life and society in their brutality. Plus Selena's aunt had unattainable expectations of her. But of course, I loved their happy ending. I really enjoy the narrator, Stevie Zimmerman. A Fall from Grace gets 4 Stars. Have you read (or listened to) A Fall from Grace by Jennie Goutet? What did you think? Let me know!

An Amiable Foe - Review

An Amiable Foe (Castles and Courtship, # 1)

By: Jennie Goutet

Publication: March 24, 2023 by Millefeuille Press

322 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--She wants to be left alone with her family’s castle. He wants to show off the home he has just inherited. Neither of them can win.

Marianne Edgewood is perfectly capable of running Brindale Castle, if only the task would be left to her. A centuries-old house of stone is solid, unchanging, whereas people are not to be relied upon. It little matters that a stranger inherited the castle. She simply must find a way to stay.

At last, fate has been kind to Peregrine Osborne, and he has won the approval of his baron uncle, his London friends, and the deed to a castle in Kent. He certainly deserves his success after suffering a series of setbacks through no fault of his own. If only the castle’s pretty resident, Miss Edgewood, didn’t stand in the way of his urgent attempts to bring the castle to its proper glory.

When Perry embarks on a whirlwind renovation of Brindale, Marianne proves to be confoundingly resistant to his efforts. As Perry finds it increasingly difficult to force her to his will, he begins to question whether having his way at all costs is worth forcing Marianne from everything she has ever known. And Marianne must decide whether a cold pile of stones is truly a replacement for a warm, beating heart.

Jennie Goutet is a new author for me, and I have already added several of her books to my TBR list. The audiobook version is narrated by Stevie Zimmerman, who does a marvelous job and will be added to my list of favorite audio narrators.

The description covers a lot of the story. Marianne's parents passed away in short succession. Her uncle inherited Brindale Castle, but he has also passed away. Since her uncle's passing, Marianne has waited on pins and needles for the next inheritor to seek her out and kick her out of her home. Marianne is truly secluded. Her companion is no help at all and actually hinders her. She is only friends with the servants and one local family. I can't remember their last name, but the son's name is Robert. Marianne and Robert have grown up together. Robert does expect there to be a marital alliance between them eventually, but he hasn't done anything as of yet to try to work towards that goal.

Perry inherited Brindale Castle from his uncle, who already owns an estate. For Perry, Brindale Castle is a test from his uncle to see if he is worthy or ready to be his successor. Perry arrives at Brindale very cold and aloof, with all kinds of ideas on how to renovate. What he doesn't expect is an inhabitant that is tied to the castle. Thankfully, Marianne has inherited the cottage on the property from her uncle before he died, so it isn't like she has nowhere to go.

Perry is so excited to finally have an estate of his own that he invites 3 of his friends from London. He doesn't trust these friends, and to be honest, two of them aren't really friends so much as acquaintances, and acquaintances he isn't even sure he wants to keep up with after the house party is over.

Perry can't explain why he feels so protective over Marianne, but that feeling only grows into more overtime as he learns more about Marianne, her resilience, and her character. Marianne isn't used to relying on others. She hasn't been well taken care of and has had to look out for herself. I related to her search for a true friend. The mystery in this book wasn't a surprise for me at all. But I think Jennie Goutet handled it well enough.

An Amiable Foe was a wholesome, quick listen with a happy ending. I wasn't completely blown away by it or surprised by any twists or mysteries, but sometimes that is what I'm looking for in a book. I find I appreciate these types of stories in audiobook format even more. An Amiable Foe gets 3.5 Stars. I have already listened to another by Jennie Goutet and have added even more to my TBR list. Have you read (or listened to) An Amiable Foe? What did you think? Let me know!

Her Unsuitable Match - Review

Her Unsuitable Match (Supposed Scandal, # 1)

By: Sally Britton

Publication: October 25, 2021

268 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Lady Philippa must wed to gain her fortune and freedom. A former soldier wants only peace and seclusion. Marriage to each other is their best solution.

Lady Philippa Gillensford is three and twenty, an heiress, and sister to a penny-pinching earl. After rejecting every bachelor her mother approves of, Philippa is ready to take her future into her own hands. Though she doubts she’ll marry for love, she is more than willing to marry for freedom from her family’s influence.

Myles Cobbett has withdrawn from Society, content to remain alone after surviving the horrors of the Napoleonic wars. When a friend convinces Myles to attend a ball benefiting wounded veterans like himself, Myles meets the lively Lady Philippa. Shortly thereafter, to help Philippa avoid scandal, Myles rescues her from a complete cad.

Sensing a chance to escape her family’s control, Philippa convinces Myles he must marry her to save her reputation. In exchange for this favor, Philippa promises him the very thing he thought he always wanted: a quiet life, alone in the country.

While the two put on a show of marital happiness for their neighbors, both realize they want much more from this arrangement. Can they take a marriage of convenience and turn it into a love match?

Her Unsuitable Match is a sweet Regency romance and can be read as a stand-alone or as the sequel to Sally Britton's previous novel, His Unexpected Heiress.

It is also part of the upcoming Supposed Scandal series.

When I started listening to Her Unsuitable Match, I felt like the side characters were discussed in such a way that the reader is expected to be familiar with them. I figured there must be a book covering Elaine and Adam, but I was confused since Her Unsuitable Match was book 1 in a series. You'd think I'd never encountered a spin-off series before. HA! Anyway, it's true. Elaine & Adam's tale is told in His Unexpected Heiress which I went on to listen to later and will be reviewing soon. If you're reading this review before reading either book, I do suggest reading/listening to His Unexpected Heiress first. Although, I'm sure you'd manage just fine without doing so as I did.

Basically Phillipa is twenty-three years old. Her father's will left her an inheritance she was supposed to receive when she reached her majority, but her older brother is keeping it from her and trying to force her into a marriage of his choosing. Phillipa is having none of it. If anything, she'd prefer to remain unmarried. Mostly she just wants her freedom to move about and do as she sees fit. But she will take a marriage of convenience if only the gentleman will agree to let her have her freedom.

Myles is a gentleman, but he doesn't have a fortune or title to his name. After the war, he just wanted to settle down away from society. I didn't understand society's reaction to him. Indeed, he wasn't wealthy but I felt his family's position in society was enough to garner him more respect than he was offered. Maybe I don't understand society's standards enough to speak to this.

I always seem to love marriages of convenience. I've said this over and over and over. Something about teaming up with someone out for practicality's sake: each party benefits in one way or another, but then slowly builds towards becoming a team and a unit. Of course, the two can't stop there. They have to overcome obstacles that one or both face for the good of the whole. And ultimately, feelings develop and strengthen through the process.

Her Unsuitable Match was enjoyable from beginning to end. I liked Phillipa and Myles. And I couldn't help rooting for them from the start. Her Unsuitable Match gets 4 Stars. Have you read (or listened to) Her Unsuitable Match? What did you think? Let me know!

Mr. Gardiner and the Governess - Review

Mr. Gardiner and the Governess (Clairvoir Castle Romances, # 1)

By: Sally Britton

Publication: November 25th 2020 by Pink Citrus Books

228 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: YouTube Audiobooks

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--A duke’s governess, a gentleman entomologist, and a castle full of flowers is the perfect setting for a summer romance. As the new governess to the duke's family, Alice Sharpe must learn to control her impulsiveness. Employment in the duke’s household is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and could mean living in comfort the rest of her days. Unfortunately, her first encounter with the duke's houseguest, a handsome gentleman obsessed with insects, proves she may not be ready for the austere role of governess.

Rupert Gardiner has one goal: to have his work in entomology and botany published by the Royal Society. He is fortunate that the Duke of Montfort, believes in him and enlists Rupert to make a record of all the flora on the castle grounds. But Miss Sharpe’s spontaneity and continual appearance during his work is an annoying distraction. At least, that’s what he tells himself.

While Alice struggles to adapt to her new role, constantly striving to go unnoticed while still being herself, she cannot help but admire Rupert’s intelligence and focus. The more often they fall in together, the more her admiration deepens. But could a gentleman such as he ever fall in love with the governess?

As the first stand-alone novel in a new series by author Sally Britton, this story begins the Clairvoir Castle romances. This is a light-hearted series set in the Regency period.

Can you guys even imagine how stoked I was to find Sally Britton has full audiobooks on YouTube for FREE? I don't have a ton of time to listen to audiobooks, but you know what, sometimes you make time for free books. Another thing I wanted to mention before I really get into the review of this book is that Sally Britton had an author's note at the end that talked about how she struggled (like many of us) through the pandemic, and for her own mental well-being she created this, I believe she said, "light-hearted" book series. Clean, low-drama romance. And you know what? Sometimes that's exactly what I need. Sometimes I just don't need extra conflict or plot. Sometimes the difficulty to go from single to together is hard enough on its own. And sometimes I just need to read a book that's going to make me smile.

Alice is unwanted among her family members. She is too pretty and distracts potential suitors from the daughters of her relations. And for the most part, she has been cast from one relative to another for many years. Ultimately, she ends up being the governess to the children of the Duke and Duchess of Montfort. Upon taking the position, the Duchess and the Dowager Duchess discuss what's expected of her, and in no uncertain terms is she supposed to go about searching for or being involved in any romance. Alice is terrified of losing her position because where would she go now that her relations are so thoroughly tired of her imposing upon them. So she endeavors to toe the line exactly and not step one foot over.

Rupert Gardiner has been commissioned by the Duke to catalog all the plants and insects at Castle Clairvoir's grounds. He is also a personal friend of the Duke. Rupert stumbles upon Alice's artwork of the local plants and he determines that she must work with him on his project since he doesn't care as much about the plants as he does the insects. Having never grown up unwanted, or really particularly ever been unwanted, Rupert couldn't possibly understand why Alice wouldn't want to take part in his scientific research if it allows her to have her name listed in scientific journals alongside his. And, of course, he quickly comes to realize that there is much about Alice to draw him to her.

As I already said, there isn't much conflict or drama to overcome. Maybe some might look at this as a fluff piece. And maybe it is. But I actually enjoyed that there weren't terribly high circumstances to overcome for these two to find love. Of course, that doesn't mean that there's no conflict to overcome because that would be exceedingly boring.

I enjoyed Mr. Gardiner and the Governess. It was the perfect, happy book to listen to as I was doing the majority of the food prep, decorating, and last-minute cleaning for my son's birthday party. Alice and Rupert were both quite different from me, but I was happy to root for them, and I enjoyed their journey to happiness. Mr. Gardiner and the Governess gets 4 Stars. Have you read (or listened to) Mr. Gardiner and the Governess? What did you think? Let me know!

An Uncharted Devotion - Review

An Uncharted Devotion

By: Amanda Taylor

Expected Publication: June 5, 2023

216 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Lady Sarah Whitfield becomes the newest member of English nobility when her husband, Lord James Whitfield, inherits the family estate and title. It would seem her life is one of comfort and ease, but things are not always how they appear.

After a five-year post in the navy, James has returned from war a very different man: cold, stoic, and tortured by an unresolved past. How can he carry on with a life of wedded bliss when his oldest friend in the world is starving in a French prison?

Heartbroken by the changes in her husband, who seems to have lost both his love for life and for her, Sarah leaves for London. James, haunted by the war and the loss of his wife, cannot make sense of his pain and regret. He knows one thing, however: he cannot let the woman he loves slip through his fingers. But when he receives news of his friend, he is forced to decide whether he can face the horrors of his past to save his friend and reclaim a future with Sarah or whether he must sacrifice one for the other.

An Uncharted Devotion is unique among books. I haven't read many books where the relationship between the two main characters has already been established, and they are in love. And the books that I have read where this might be the case have ended up where the initial relationship breaks down, and one or both move on to other relationships that suit them better. That wasn't the case with An Uncharted Devotion, and I liked it all the more for the difference.

The book starts off at James and Sarah's wedding. The two are desperately in love with each other. James is in the Navy and has two weeks with Sarah before being shipped out. The story picks up five years later. Sarah lives with James's mother and sister-in-law, and his older brother Peter has just passed away. Alice is now a widow and deeply in the throws of grief. James has inherited his brother's title and has been commissioned to return home. Despite her best efforts, Sarah has never been able to form much of a friendship with Alice. She has found friends over the last five years, but she has been very lonely. She misses James. And even his letters have nearly stopped altogether by the time Peter has passed.

James fully intends to remain in the Navy for the next five to ten years. The navy, his war experiences, as well as his promotion to Captain have all worked to change him into a hardened and aloof man. In the span of a very short time, James's friend gets captured by the French, his brother dies, he inherits a title he never expected to have, and he loses his career in the navy. He isn't a happy man when he arrives back home.

Oh my heart ached for Sarah. She wants so badly to restore the relationship she once had with James. They used to be so in love and connected. But now that he is home, he is either indifferent or harsh with her. Most of the time he tries to avoid her altogether. She can't make heads or tails of his feelings. And he won't open up to her. Because my own marriage has been going through one of the more challenging times lately, I found myself near tears and even had a few tears roll down my cheeks a time or two during the first half of this book.

I loved all of the side characters. Alice with her heartbreak and even her aloofness. James's mother was exactly what she needed to be. Sarah's friends, the Wilkeses, and especially Lord and Lady Ramsay. Shoot, even Patrick who had such a small piece of the story was fleshed out enough to feel real. I would love a spin-off from any of these characters.

Favorite quotes:

-Eventually, Sarah stopped trying to participate in the conversation because every response he gave, or lack thereof, felt like another rejection, over and over.

-"When we marriage, he was kind and attentive. I felt adored by him." More tears slid down her cheeks. "It is a cruel form of torture remembering, living with this hollow version of the main I love--the man I once loved."

-"You have always loved with all of your heart. But I want you to know you can choose to love yourself also. Love is a choice."

-Somehow, I have come to represent a cage to you. You have been searching for an escape since the very moment you returned. I have no wish to impede you further. I release you from any perceived confinement where I am concerned.

-"Never forget, son, real strength is born out of admitting weakness, not suppressing it."

Of course, the relationship between Sarah and James doesn't end where I've stopped discussing it so far. The two have much to work towards to resolving their issues and returning to a healthy state of marriage. But I don't want to spoil the process for any potential readers.

I don't know what my expectations were before starting this book. I'd never read anything by Amanda Taylor before. (I think this might be her first book.) But I was surprised to find that I connected with this book and with Sarah on a personal level. Perhaps the timing of my own real-life struggles was just so perfect that I would enjoy and relate to this story exactly as I did. I have to rate An Uncharted Devotion 4.5 Stars because I shed actual tears during this book. Have you read An Uncharted Devotion? What did you think? Let me know!