A Love Most Daring - Review

A Love Most Daring (Bow Street, # 3)

By: Joanna Barker

Expected Publication: March 3, 2026 by Shadow Mountain

320 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--From best-selling author Joanna Barker: Proper romance meets page-turning mystery in this captivating tale of danger, redemption, and love worth fighting for.

After years of whispered gossip and quiet exile in the countryside, Beatrice Lacey arrives in London determined to reclaim her life. But her resolve is shaken when she witnesses a horrific attack tied to a chilling high-profile murder case gripping the city.

Thrust into sudden danger, Beatrice finds herself under the reluctant protection of Alexander Rawlings—a brooding Bow Street officer with a guarded heart and a fierce sense of duty. Though it's clear he’d rather be chasing the killer than shielding a scandal-stained Society miss, their forced closeness begins to unravel his defenses. In the unnerving moments between danger and discovery, every sharp exchange and lingering glance fans a slow-burning connection—one neither of them expected and neither can resist.

With danger closing in and old wounds resurfacing, trust may be their only refuge—and love their most daring risk of all.

A Love Most Daring should really be listed as the third in a series IMO. A Heart Worth Stealing would be book 1. Then So True a Love would be book 2. This book wasn't listed as third in the series at the time of writing this review, but strangely enough the previous two books I just mentioned weren't listed in a series either until I just looked and they are now listed in the Bow Street series. The first book being about Ginny & Jack. The second book is about Verity, Jack's sister, and Nathaniel. And now this book, A Love Most Daring is about Ginny's best friend, Beatrice, and a fellow Bow Street Runner, Alexander.

Beatrice is in London visiting Ginny & Jack. Ginny has been trying to matchmake her with a different Bow Street Runner, Mr. Drake. Yet Beatrice has been involved in a slight scandal in the past. She stumbled upon a lady of the ton in a compromising situation with a man, but instead of that lady's reputation being ruined, she spread rumors about Beatrice instead. She's spent two years at home, but she's been lonely, and she hopes the gossip will have died down. Unfortunately, once Rawlings realizes that Beatrice has her sights set on his friend Drake, he begins asking around about her, which doesn't give him a favorable opinion of her. He behaves rather rudely towards Beatrice and thwarts one of her and Ginny's attempts to spend time with Mr. Drake. Rawlings gets trapped into the outing instead.

During this outing, a criminal attempts to stab Rawlings for his part in investigating a murder. And Beatrice both saves his life and sees the attacker's face. Rawlings and Beatrice go into hiding while the other Bow Street Runners take over the murder investigation. Alexander and Beatrice end up going to his estate where his mother has been living. His mother has been trying to get him to end his Bow Street career and come home to run his estate--something Alexander hasn't been interested in at all. If Alexander was rough upon his first meeting Beatrice, his mother is doubly hard on her. I even teared up one time with all that Beatrice had upon her shoulders.

Beatrice and Alexander's slow-building relationship was so enjoyable and just the change in genre I needed to get away from some of the fantasy I've been reading lately.

I only highlighted twice.

-The man really should just smile and get it over with before his face cracked right down the middle from the stress of holding it back.

-There is little point in begging you not to be angry with me, so I shall only ask that you do not do anything foolish while angry. Such decisions are never well made.

A Love Most Daring was really enjoyable. And often, I find that books that have a romance and a mystery can be troublesome for me when the mystery takes over the romance. That didn't happen in A Love Most Daring at all. And I appreciate that. Joanna Barker has really become an auto-buy author for me. And I look forward to Mr. Drake potentially getting his happily-ever-after afterall. A Love Most Daring gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Love Most Daring? What did you think? Let me know!

Top Ten Most Anticipated Releases Q1/Q2 2026

Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This week's topic is Top Ten Most Anticipated Releases Q1/Q2 2026

1. Her Hidden Fire by Cliodhna O'Sullivan
2. First and Forever by Lynn Painter
3. The Last Page by Katie Holt
4. A Love Most Daring by Joanna Barker
5. Bloodsinger (The Fire That Binds, # 2) by Juliette Cross
6. A Novel Engagement (The Gentlemen's Gamble, # ?) by Anneka R Walker
7. A Fortunate Miscalculation (The Gentlemen's Gamble, # ?) by Karen Thornell
8. A Bewildered Bachelor (The Gentlemen's Gamble, # ?) by Holli Jo Monroe
9. A Foolish Porposal (The Gentlemen's Gamble, # ?) by Kasey Stockton
10. An Accidental Marriage (The Gentlemen's Gamble, # ?) by Deborah M Hathaway

Which books are you most anticiapting for the first half of 2026? Let me know!

Can't Wait for A Love Most Daring

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 Love Most Daring

By: Joanna Barker

Expected Publication: March 3, 2026 by Shadow Mountain

320 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--From best-selling author Joanna Barker: Proper romance meets page-turning mystery in this captivating tale of danger, redemption, and love worth fighting for.

After years of whispered gossip and quiet exile in the countryside, Beatrice Lacey arrives in London determined to reclaim her life. But her resolve is shaken when she witnesses a horrific attack tied to a chilling high-profile murder case gripping the city.

Thrust into sudden danger, Beatrice finds herself under the reluctant protection of Alexander Rawlings—a brooding Bow Street officer with a guarded heart and a fierce sense of duty. Though it's clear he’d rather be chasing the killer than shielding a scandal-stained Society miss, their forced closeness begins to unravel his defenses. In the unnerving moments between danger and discovery, every sharp exchange and lingering glance fans a slow-burning connection—one neither of them expected and neither can resist.

With danger closing in and old wounds resurfacing, trust may be their only refuge—and love their most daring risk of all.

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

So True a Love - Review

So True a Love

By: Joanna Barker

Publication: September 3, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

256 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--Danger and passion collide in a Regency backdrop when a plucky young woman becomes embroiled in a Bow Street investigation alongside a handsome officer.

London, 1803

As the daughter of a renowned actress, Verity Travers is a privileged lady of high society —and the last woman one would suspect of working as a private investigator. But after one case nearly costs her everything, she makes the hard decision to hang up her hat and live the uninspiring life of a gentlewoman. However, when she and her dearest friend become victims of a harrowing armed robbery, Verity finds herself swept back into the clandestine world of mystery and crime as she seeks to bring the thief to justice. There’s just one complication: the persistent and dashingly handsome Bow Street Runner Nathaniel Denning, who always seems to cross her path.

Verity is confident she could accomplish her work quickly if only Nathaniel would stay out of her way. While she appreciates his keen mind and quick wit on a case, his interference is muddling her progress—and her heart. Focusing on the task at hand becomes more and more difficult as she constantly bumps into Nathaniel, who is determined to keep her out of danger.

When the two rival investigators learn they are both pursuing the same cunning criminal, they must figure out how to navigate the delicate dance of cooperation amid a backdrop of increasing peril and an irresistible passion that sets their hearts ablaze.

Joanna Barker has come up with some original story ideas, and So True a Love is just one of them. Verity has dreams (or did at one time) of becoming a female Bow Street Runner. Her brother worked with Bow Street. (You can read his story in A Heart Worth Stealing.) Jack taught her everything he knew, and he often enlisted her help with cases. She has a good mind for detective work. After Jack married and settled, Verity thought she might try doing some cases personally. She was doing pretty well, but one case went a little off that scared her, and rightly so. Verity was with a friend's family when they were all robbed. But something is off with the thief. Verity takes after him and literally bumps into Bow Street Runner, Nathaniel. Verity is urged by her friend to take on this case personally as a note was in her friend's reticule that could ruin her.  

Nathaniel is immediately irritated and intrigued by Verity. She seems to be popping up everywhere he is, disrupting his investigation. He didn't want to take this case because it would be like finding a needle in a haystack, and it also doesn't pay well. But he doesn't have a choice. Nathaniel quickly realizes that keeping Verity away from this case isn't going to happen, and so the two team up. I couldn't have been more excited about this duo. Nathaniel doesn't take much longer than teaming up with her to realize that he might want more from a relationship with her. But Verity doesn't plan to marry. She's keeping a secret that she doesn't want to be exposed.

The mystery wasn't the driving force for me, which is actually a good thing in my opinion. I felt like the mystery was central enough to the plot that it does guide most of the story, but my drive to read wasn't from wanting to find out the "who done it," but to find out if Verity would let her guard down to let Nathaniel in.

Favorite quotes:

-The next morning, I set out, determined to put my plan into action. It was two-pronged, as any worthwhile plan was.

-"Trust is a valuable thing, Miss Travers," he responded. "One mustn't give it away too easily."

-"A girl must use all the skills at her disposal," I replied. "You would be surprised how often I am underestimated."

-"I do not drink while working," he said eventually, his voice almost too steady. As if he'd offered this explanation many times before. "I prefer to have my wits about me." "I see," I said, trying not to show how very intrigued I was. "Wits are rather hard to come by. Best not to frighten them off."

-"Oh, none of that formality," I said. "Please call me Patience."

-"There is, perhaps, no surer mark of folly," he went on, "than an attempt to correct the natural infirmities of those we love."

-"Always one step forward and two steps back," he said in a soft voice. "But I am undeterred."

-"I find it quite impossible to forget anything about you."

-"I've never known anyone like you," I said quietly. "You say what you feel, and you mean it. No guile or deception."

-I'd learned firsthand from my parents that love could be both selfish and caring.

-A young lady passed him, eyeing him with unmistakable interest. I could hardly blame her--the man certainly knew how to lean on a wall--but I still glared at her back.

-"That is why we work so well together," I replied with a saucy wink. "You plan; I improvise."

As you can see there are some real gems in the banter between Nathaniel and Verity. Their relationship was supportive, and they admired each other's talents and abilities. I loved their entire journey. And they might be one of my favorite couples that I've read this month. So True a Love gets 4.5 Stars. Have you read So True a Love? 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!

Can't Wait for So True a 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.

So True a Love

By: Joanna Barker

Expected Publication: September 3, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

256 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Danger and passion collide in a Regency backdrop when a plucky young woman becomes embroiled in a Bow Street investigation alongside a handsome officer.

London, 1803

As the daughter of a renowned actress, Verity Travers is a privileged lady of high society —and the last woman one would suspect of working as a private investigator. But after one case nearly costs her everything, she makes the hard decision to hang up her hat and live the uninspiring life of a gentlewoman. However, when she and her dearest friend become victims of a harrowing armed robbery, Verity finds herself swept back into the clandestine world of mystery and crime as she seeks to bring the thief to justice. There’s just one complication: the persistent and dashingly handsome Bow Street Runner Nathaniel Denning, who always seems to cross her path.

Verity is confident she could accomplish her work quickly if only Nathaniel would stay out of her way. While she appreciates his keen mind and quick wit on a case, his interference is muddling her progress—and her heart. Focusing on the task at hand becomes more and more difficult as she constantly bumps into Nathaniel, who is determined to keep her out of danger.

When the two rival investigators learn they are both pursuing the same cunning criminal, they must figure out how to navigate the delicate dance of cooperation amid a backdrop of increasing peril and an irresistible passion that sets their hearts ablaze.

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

A Heart Worth Stealing - Review

A Heart Worth Stealing

By: Joanna Barker

Expected Publication: May 2nd 2023 by Shadow Mountain

288 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian 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--Sowerby, England, 1802

Miss Genevieve Wilde—a magistrate’s daughter and independent heiress—is determined to meet life’s challenges all on her own, just as her late-father had taught her. So when her father’s pocket watch is stolen, she will do anything to get it back, especially when the local authorities prove incompetent.

Upon reading an advertisement in the paper, she takes a chance and contacts a thief-taker to find the watch. It’s a choice Ginny regrets when former Bow Street officer Jack Travers arrives on her doorstep. He is frustratingly flirtatious, irritatingly handsome, and entirely unpredictable, and Ginny wonders if she’ll be able to resist such a man.

But after Ginny discovers that the missing watch is just a small part of a larger, more frightening plot against her, she needs Jack’s help more than ever. To protect her home and her reputation, the two enter into a risky charade—pretending Jack is her cousin so he can begin his investigation, starting with the household staff. As they work together to unravel the mystery, Ginny finds herself falling fast for her charismatic thief-taker, leaving her heart in just as much danger as her life.

Joanna Barker has become an auto-read author for me in the historical fiction genre. I haven't read anything by her that I've been disappointed with. I tend to stalk NetGalley for any new releases by her, which is how I stumbled upon A Heart Worth Stealing.

Genevieve's father passed, leaving her his estate. He has an older daughter that is Genevieve's half-sister. Most people would have expected him to will his estate to his oldest daughter. Since she's married, her future is more secure than Genevieve's. However, Genevieve and her sister have a strained relationship. Genevieve feels like everyone is expecting her to fail. And it seems like someone out there might be going out of their way to ensure that she does.

I don't read too many mysteries. Certain authors seem to do it well enough that keep me guessing. But it frustrates me to figure out the "twists" before they are revealed. And unfortunately, I felt like the villain of A Heart Worth Stealing was pretty obvious. It wasn't until a small part at the end of the book that I even remotely questioned whether I was right.

I did enjoy learning more about the concept of a thief-taker. I love how historical fiction teaches history in a way that makes it entirely fascinating. Reading historical fiction has taught me so much. I would have never known these small pieces of fact or history without finding stories that discuss them. I don't know that they make a huge difference in my life, but I find it fascinating, nonetheless, and it helps me to see how learning history through literature is so much more enjoyable than the history text books forced upon our children in school.

As always, the love stories are what I read for. I might have found Jack and Ginny's story a little cheesy, but it wasn't too cheesy. I can't fault too much. I wasn't cringing or rolling my eyes.

A Heart Worth Stealing is one I blew through. I didn't want to put it down. During one of the busiest months of the year, I read this book in like two days, I think. I liked the relationship between Ginny and Jack, but I loved the side story of the relationship between Genevieve and her older sister. The mystery was too easy to figure out, but I wasn't reading this one for the mystery. A Heart Worth Stealing gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Hearth Worth Stealing? What did you think? Let me know!

Top Ten Books I Want Santa to Bring 2020

Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This week's topic is Top Ten Books I Want Santa to Bring 2020.

1. Forever Wild (Wild, # 2.5) by KA Tucker
2. Gentleman Jim by Mimi Matthews
3. Beholden (The Fairest Maidens, # 1) by Jody Hedlund
4. Romancing Her Rival by Joanna Barker
5. Layla by Colleen Hoover
6. A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash, # 2) by Jennifer L Armentrout
7. A Court of Silver Flames (A Court of Thorns and Roses, # 4) by Sarah J Maas
8. The Gentleman Spy (Serendipity & Secrets, # 2) by Erica Vetsch
9. Beauty and the Baron by Joanna Barker
10. Beguiled (Betwixt & Between, # 3) by Darynda Jones

Which books are you hoping Santa brings you? Let me know!

Miss Adeline's Match - Review

Miss Adeline's Match

By: Joanna Barker

Publication: April 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications

263 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: Personal Kindle Library (birthday present)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Miss Adeline Hayes is the perfect lady's companion: pleasant, conversational, and unceasingly proper. But when her closest friend, Charity Edgeworth, breaks off her arranged marriage without explanation, even Adeline's superior skills are put to the test. Charity's father banishes the two young women to the country, sending Adeline with a charge to find Charity a husband or suffer dire consequences.

As Adeline takes on the role of reluctant matchmaker, she discovers more than one obstacle in her path. Not only does Charity prefer escaping in books to socializing, but Adeline soon finds her own attentions distracted by the standoffish—and irritatingly handsome—Mr. Evan Whitfield. Amidst an eventful foxhunt and the unexpected arrival of Charity's former betrothed, Adeline simply doesn't have time for a battle of wits with Evan. But the two are continually drawn together until Adeline begins to question her tightly guarded convictions about love and marriage.

However, when secrets are revealed and truths made known, Adeline must face her most fearsome obstacle yet: herself.

Let's get past the cover, shall we? Adeline is a gentleman's daughter. But her father, a physician, has begun to suffer from what we can assume to be Alzheimer's disease which wasn't understood back then. Her mother left once her way of life could no longer be maintained, and Adeline and her older sister, Cordelia, have been struggling under the financial burden of medical expenses ever since. Thankfully, Adeline earns some money as a lady's companion for her best friend, Charity. But recently, Charity's life and Adeline's has gotten more complicated. Charity suddenly called off her engagement to George Henley and won't even tell Adeline why. Rumors are beginning to spread, and Charity's father sends the two women to his sister's house, Mrs. Beckett, for a country house party.

The twist comes in that Charity's father tells Adeline that she is in charge of seeing Charity successfully married or her family, already behind on their rent to him, will be evicted. Adeline knows that she won't steer Charity toward any man unworthy of her despite the risks to her own family, but she does embark on a journey of trying to help Charity move past her heartbreak and on with her life. If that means seeing her married to a worthy man then so be it. She begins plotting immediately upon their arrival. And there's really only one candidate despite there being two eligible men in the group.

Evan picks up on Adeline's manipulation immediately although he doesn't know her motivations, he writes her off as all of the other society girls from London that he's come to despise. His opinion of Adeline begins to change as he witnesses her help a starving young boy who tries to poach on the Beckett's property. Adeline doesn't turn him in, instead, she goes above and beyond to help young Peter. Evan begins to realize that he's likely judged her prematurely. And his admiration for her begins to grow.

A wrench is thrown into Adeline's matchmaking when George Henley shows up at the Beckett's house in an attempt to find out why Charity suddenly called off their engagement. His adamant refusal to give up and sulk away without fighting for Charity is telling about his true feelings. Ultimately, he agrees to be gone for good if Adeline will deliver a letter to Charity for him. Yet Adeline doesn't keep her promise.

When secrets come to light, Adeline must live with the decisions she's made in meddling with Charity's life, and Evan wonders if she is no better than the society women he despises after all.

Favorite quotes:

-“Happiness does not equal perfection,” Mrs. Beckett said softly. “And neither do you need to be perfect to achieve happiness. There will always be difficulties in life, and we will always make mistakes. But happiness is what makes life worthwhile, what makes it bearable. We must find joy in the everyday things.”

-I considered that for a long moment before sighing. “I wish I had your positivity.” “It is not something that comes naturally to me, I assure you,” she said with a wistful smile. “It is a decision I must make every day, though it is one I have never regretted making.”

Miss Adeline's Match was just what I needed. I was hooked on the characters and wanted good things for all of them. I read this in 24 hours which is always a bonus for me. Miss Adeline's Match gets 4 Stars. Have you read Miss Adeline's Match? What did you think? Let me know!

Secrets and Suitors - Review

Secrets and Suitors

By: Joanna Barker

Publication: October 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications, Inc.

256 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction

Source: Personal Kindle Library (birthday present)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

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

Goodreads description--Reluctantly returning to London for yet another Season, shy Nora Hamilton has nearly given up hope that she will ever find the love match she longs for. After all, the one man she does harbor feelings for—her closest friend, James—has made it perfectly clear he views her as just that: a friend. With James traveling half a world away and Nora's father pressuring her to marry for wealth and status, Nora is forced to set aside her desire for love and accept the future she has always dreaded. Until James returns unexpectedly and Nora's feelings once again rush unbearably close to the surface. Determined to save what is left of their friendship, Nora ignores her own heart and allows herself to be swept up in the London Season, soon finding herself the object of two very different gentlemen's affections. Though she should be thrilled, both men come with a glaring fault: neither is the one man who holds her heart.

But there is much more at stake than heartbreak. When long-kept secrets are laid bare, Nora must face the fears that have plagued her all her life and decide what true love is worth.

Secrets and Suitors starts off with Nora dealing with the emotions of hope being crushed. She's in love with her best friend. They had a moment but he pulled away and then left for his family's sugar plantation in Jamaica without even saying goodbye except a short note. She's trying to come to grips with her new belief that he doesn't in fact love her in the same way as she loves him. But she still hopes to marry for love. Even if she has to look elsewhere for it. The only problem is that her father wants her to accept the hand of a gentleman that is very stuffy and boring.

James returns and interrupts Nora's proposal. Of course, she's grateful because she doesn't want to marry anyone but James. Yet he continually does things or says things that confuse her. Sometimes he seems to specifically discourage her but other times he does the opposite. James keeps popping up where Nora is. It wasn't hard to tell his feelings as a reader, but Nora had a hard time reading him because she was afraid to read too much into his actions.

Beyond the love story between Nora and James, the biggest piece of the puzzle dealt with the secrets Nora's family has been keeping. They're not some nefarious secrets, but they are secrets that keep them from connecting with each other and being authentic.

I found myself getting frustrated with Nora. She was constantly telling herself to move on from James yet she actually took no real steps to do that. Obviously, the story is about them, but I find it really difficult to connect to characters who know they should do one thing and then do the opposite. Plus I don't think it is possible for two people of the opposite sex to remain friends when one or the other has feelings. It's just not possible. The person with feelings will constantly be reading into actions and remain hopeful. Or miserable. Or both. It just doesn't work. And I felt myself getting frustrated with these two more than I was rooting for them. I mean I knew they'd end up together in the end.

Secrets and Suitors was a fast read for me. I had a few issues with it that kept me from rating it higher. I ended up settling for a 3 Star rating. Have you read Secrets and Suitors? What did you think? Let me know!

Otherwise Engaged - Review

Otherwise Engaged

By: Joanna Barker

Expected Publication: October 12th 2020 by Covenant Communications

262 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

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Goodreads description--She’s never been afraid of breaking the rules—until she risks breaking her heart

Constantly stifled by the rules of Society, spirited Rebecca Rowley enjoys finding ways to quietly—or not so quietly—rebel. But riding bareback and avoiding nosy neighbors are nothing compared to the thrilling secret she is keeping from her family.

When Rebecca’s quick thinking saves the life of a young girl, she unwittingly attracts the attention of the child’s dashing brother, Lieutenant Nicholas Avery. As that attention turns flirtatious, Rebecca is forced to tell him the truth: she is secretly engaged—to the one man her family would never approve of. Fortunately, Lieutenant Avery is a navy man with no wish to marry, or so they both assume as they enter into a friendship.

Rebecca hopes to change her family’s mind about her betrothed, but the more she comes to know the handsome lieutenant, the more she wonders if she promised her hand too hastily.

After all her carefully laid plans are shattered during a family crisis, Rebecca must force her heart to decide. Should she stay true to the promise she made or fight for the future she’s only just begun to imagine?

I've been on a Joanna Barker kick since I got a couple of her books for my birthday. So when I saw Otherwise Engaged available for review, I requested it immediately. And it just so happened that I had the opportunity to keep reading once I got started on this one. And I'm glad that was the case because I did not want to put it down.

Rebecca has recently returned home from a trip to Brighton where she secretly accepted the proposal of a man who she's certain her family will not approve of due to some secret history between their two families. The two have a plan to uncover the falling out between their families so they can convince each family to forgive and forget and thus they will be able to move forward with marriage with the blessings of their families. But finding information isn't so easy

Meanwhile, Rebecca saves the new neighbor's sister from drowning in a lake. Her initial meeting with Lt. Avery is unconventional, to say the least. The two don't get off on the best foot, but Nicholas is intent on making amends for his harried and rude behavior at their meeting. The two feel safe with each other knowing that Rebecca has a beau and is therefore not interested in Nicholas. And Nicholas has plans to return to active duty in the Navy and isn't planning on marrying anyone. They take advantage of comfort with each other to share burdens, passions, secrets, and time. The build between them was mesmerizing, and I found myself holding my breath with anxiety over these two characters.

Olivia is Nicholas' half-sister that he's recently become responsible for since the death of Olivia's mother six months earlier. Olivia comes off like an angry child. She's surly and sassy. She's brutally honest. But she's also hurt and grieving. You can't help but feel for her and therefore fall in love with her. I would love to read her story one day.

The other side characters came off the page just as much. I loved Rebecca's relationship with her mother and her brother. Between the three, there is genuine love and affection. Even though they mourn the loss of Rebecca's father, it's easy to envy their family dynamic.

Favorite quotes:

-“Once I’ve set my aim, I never miss.”

-You challenge me. You understand me. You take me as I am and, yet, make me wish to be better.”

-“I never thought I would surrender myself so easily or so willingly. But you have captured me, Rebecca Rowley, and I have no desire to escape.”

Ah! Otherwise Engaged is all the good things. I don't always enjoy love triangles, but I do enjoy characters realizing that they've outgrown a relationship and someone else is a better fit for them. Nicholas and Rebecca have a wonderful journey. I loved how well they knew and understood each other. Nicholas particularly had a good read on Rebecca. I can see myself re-reading this one someday which says a lot about my feelings these days. Otherwise Engaged gets 4.5 Stars. Have you read Otherwise Engaged? What did you think? Let me know!

The Truth About Miss Ashbourne - Review

The Truth About Miss Ashbourne

By: Joanna Barker

Publication: November 1st 2018 by Covenant Communications, Inc.

272 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

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Goodreads description--Governess Juliana Ashbourne has dreams reaching far beyond the confines of her current position, hoping to someday establish her own school for girls. When she inherits a fortune from her late grandfather, she is shocked to learn that “someday” may soon be within reach. However, there is one condition: she must spend a month at the estate of Havenfield—with the very family who disowned her mother. Intent on securing the money she needs to start her school, Juliana accepts the invitation, vowing to guard her heart against those who shunned her all her life. But Havenfield is far from what she expects. She discovers a grandmother seeking forgiveness, a cold and disapproving aunt, and a painfully shy cousin. And then there is Mr. William Rowley. Though the heir to the estate is a merciless tease, Juliana finds in him a friend and confidant—and perhaps something more. As she struggles to make sense of her new place in the world, her stubborn independence clashes with a yearning to belong and the even more confusing desires of her heart.

I'm still relatively new to the historical fiction genre. I've read the occasional book throughout my life but it was never a genre I read frequently until the last year or so. I'm still finding authors that I'm enjoying in the genre, but I'm always wary of getting into books that might have too much "romance" if you know what I mean. The Truth About Miss Ashbourne was utterly clean and I'm so glad.

William was such a fun character. He teases and banters with Juliana from the very beginning of their acquaintance. He's strong, wise, kind, and everything you might look for in a leading male character. Juliana was so endearing. She meets William under the most unusual circumstances and she's constantly embarrassing herself. I think many people would be able to relate to her. The other characters of The Truth About Miss Ashbourne was all enjoyable too. Lady Rowley, Eliza, Rebecca, and Mrs. Rowley were all lovely characters--especially Eliza and Rebecca. Both of which I'd love to read more about.

Of course, there were plenty of unlikable characters which make the story well rounded and realistic.

I was plugging along and enjoying every single bit. I never wanted to put The Truth About Miss Ashbourne down. I was able to read it over the course of about two days. But then one of my biggest pet peeve when it comes to conflict occurred. I ended up being satisfied with the ending and how the resolution happened.

The Truth About Miss Ashbourne was really enjoyable. I read it very quickly and didn't want to put it down. I was excited about the possibility of William and Juliana from the very moment they first met without even knowing who the other was. I loved their back and forth bantering. The Truth About Miss Ashbourne gets 4 Stars. Have you read The Truth About Miss Ashbourne? What did you think? Let me know!