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For Letter or Worse
Every word in his letter spells mortification.
There was only one reason young Harrison Chase moved away from his idyllic country upbringing to the long dark hours of working in a London factory—he was bound and determined to make his fortune and deserve a chance to court Christine Stone. But as years passed and his dream of making a fortune came closer into view, he realized there were a lot more important things in life than young, unrequited love.
In the middle of his charge to reverse the Corn Laws, and make food affordable to workers struggling to feed their families, his housekeeper helpfully mails a letter she finds languishing amongst his things. Not just any letter—a six-year-old love letter to Christine. With no other choice, he rushes back to his childhood home on Christine’s family estate. If he can’t get his hands on that letter before she does, Christine will discover what a pitiful and pretentious fool he had been. Only, he hadn’t counted on the mail being delayed.
Now, Harrison must decide which is worse—waiting with Christine as he not-so-slowly falls back in love with her, or returning to London without the letter, knowing once she reads it, he will never be able to visit her or look her in the eye again.
This book was previously published as part of the Timeless Victorian Romance Collection A Note of Change, under the title "Waiting for the Post."
There was only one reason young Harrison Chase moved away from his idyllic country upbringing to the long dark hours of working in a London factory—he was bound and determined to make his fortune and deserve a chance to court Christine Stone. But as years passed and his dream of making a fortune came closer into view, he realized there were a lot more important things in life than young, unrequited love.
In the middle of his charge to reverse the Corn Laws, and make food affordable to workers struggling to feed their families, his housekeeper helpfully mails a letter she finds languishing amongst his things. Not just any letter—a six-year-old love letter to Christine. With no other choice, he rushes back to his childhood home on Christine’s family estate. If he can’t get his hands on that letter before she does, Christine will discover what a pitiful and pretentious fool he had been. Only, he hadn’t counted on the mail being delayed.
Now, Harrison must decide which is worse—waiting with Christine as he not-so-slowly falls back in love with her, or returning to London without the letter, knowing once she reads it, he will never be able to visit her or look her in the eye again.
This book was previously published as part of the Timeless Victorian Romance Collection A Note of Change, under the title "Waiting for the Post."
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
August 27, 2025
2 stars ⭐️ Clean Fiction - Regency
The concept of this short story had me excited because how doesn’t love accidentally mail confessions of love? Well, probably the writer who didn’t mean for it to get mailed, but pish posh, I enjoy it at least. Starting this book, I was hopeful that it would be told fully in his POV, but it ended up not being that way which was a bit of a bummer. They both had their assumptions that cause problems at the end (of course 🙄) and there was a bit too much noticing of his muscles on her part for my tastes.
I will say that I found the history in this one was fascinating because of the anti-corn law that Harrison was working against. I did research on the topic after finishing this book. I’m a nerd, I know, don’t say it. It’s only when botany or food laws appear….usually.
The plot of this one was overall cute, but it was too kissy for my personal tastes (especially for a book that was barely 100 pages), so I did lower my rating for it. Had there been less emotional kissing and sexual tension between the two of them (and a few less of the hell/devil comments that Harrison makes—those were uncomfortable to me), I would have given it a higher rating. I think the kissing is on par for the books I’ve read by this author, though. The main couple was cute, though, and I liked their friendship.
Main Content-
Harrison comment that he “sold [his] soul to the devil” for six years and has his own “personal hell” of choosing who to love when it comes to helping his employees; Harrison later thinks that he “would go to the devil” before something would happen; Christine touches Harrison’s arms in the “most devilish manner”; A couple mentions of luck.
No major language, instead some regency-era phrases like ‘where the devil’, ‘what the deuce’, ‘for heaven’s sake’, and ‘thank the heavens’; Also a couple mentions of Harrison cursing (but it’s not written).
Mentions of starving children & one dying in Harrison’s arms (which has affected him greatly); A few mentions of an abusive drunk (implied to hit his family); A couple mentions of gambling; A mention of a pipe.
1 lips-to-fingers touch,
3 hand/palm kisses,
1 nose kiss,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
1 moving kiss lasting 4-6 sentences (with ear nibbles and swollen lips mentioned later),
3 kisses lasting 5-8 sentences,
Wanting to kiss & Staring at lips (up to a few sentences); Christine wishes for Harrison to kiss her at her throat (which shocks her own self for thinking).
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth/Heat, Nearness, & Smelling (up to a few sentences); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to a few sentences); Noticing & Staring (including muscles and Christine finding it hard to focus on a conversation with Harrison when his shirt is wet, up to a few sentences).
Christine recalls seeing Harrison and her brother swim in the creek as children/teens (sometimes without a shirt); Christine’s brother teases that he would marry a merchant’s daughter or the merchant to save their family home.
A mention of a married couple sharing a kiss.
The concept of this short story had me excited because how doesn’t love accidentally mail confessions of love? Well, probably the writer who didn’t mean for it to get mailed, but pish posh, I enjoy it at least. Starting this book, I was hopeful that it would be told fully in his POV, but it ended up not being that way which was a bit of a bummer. They both had their assumptions that cause problems at the end (of course 🙄) and there was a bit too much noticing of his muscles on her part for my tastes.
I will say that I found the history in this one was fascinating because of the anti-corn law that Harrison was working against. I did research on the topic after finishing this book. I’m a nerd, I know, don’t say it. It’s only when botany or food laws appear….usually.
The plot of this one was overall cute, but it was too kissy for my personal tastes (especially for a book that was barely 100 pages), so I did lower my rating for it. Had there been less emotional kissing and sexual tension between the two of them (and a few less of the hell/devil comments that Harrison makes—those were uncomfortable to me), I would have given it a higher rating. I think the kissing is on par for the books I’ve read by this author, though. The main couple was cute, though, and I liked their friendship.
Main Content-
Harrison comment that he “sold [his] soul to the devil” for six years and has his own “personal hell” of choosing who to love when it comes to helping his employees; Harrison later thinks that he “would go to the devil” before something would happen; Christine touches Harrison’s arms in the “most devilish manner”; A couple mentions of luck.
No major language, instead some regency-era phrases like ‘where the devil’, ‘what the deuce’, ‘for heaven’s sake’, and ‘thank the heavens’; Also a couple mentions of Harrison cursing (but it’s not written).
Mentions of starving children & one dying in Harrison’s arms (which has affected him greatly); A few mentions of an abusive drunk (implied to hit his family); A couple mentions of gambling; A mention of a pipe.
1 lips-to-fingers touch,
3 hand/palm kisses,
1 nose kiss,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
1 moving kiss lasting 4-6 sentences (with ear nibbles and swollen lips mentioned later),
3 kisses lasting 5-8 sentences,
Wanting to kiss & Staring at lips (up to a few sentences); Christine wishes for Harrison to kiss her at her throat (which shocks her own self for thinking).
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth/Heat, Nearness, & Smelling (up to a few sentences); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to a few sentences); Noticing & Staring (including muscles and Christine finding it hard to focus on a conversation with Harrison when his shirt is wet, up to a few sentences).
Christine recalls seeing Harrison and her brother swim in the creek as children/teens (sometimes without a shirt); Christine’s brother teases that he would marry a merchant’s daughter or the merchant to save their family home.
A mention of a married couple sharing a kiss.
September 25, 2023
I loved Christine's friendly personality and it's easy to see why Harrison fell in love with her as a youth and did so again so quickly when they are reunited. He doesn't feel worthy of her as a self-made successful tradesman when she is of a higher class in society. Her family's estate is at risk so some complicated dynamics come into play. Her brother who is also Harrison's friend brings some humor to the dialogue and it was a pleasure to read as this meant-for-each-other match overcame the miscommunications and hesitations to find their happily ever after.
March 20, 2023
Another delightful, romantic read from Esther Hatch! This novella originally appeared in a Timeless Romance Anthology, but now gets a beautifully updated cover and some additional content. I enjoyed this cute story of childhood friends, second chance love, humorous situations, misunderstandings and more!
Harrison Chase has been in love with his childhood friend Christine Stone for years. As the son of her steward though, he didn’t feel worthy until he could make something of himself. When he left six years ago, he revealed his secret love for her in a letter which he never posted. Now a successful business man and about to run for a seat in Parliament, he’s put aside his past longings. That is until an overly dutiful housekeeper accidentally posts his letter. Harrison returns to his childhood home to try to intercept the letter before Christine sees it.
Christine’s estate is in trouble. Determined to help any way she can, she’s applied for a governess position, but she needs to intercept the possible acceptance letter before her brother sees it. When she sees Harrison again, her love for Harry which has never wavered returns full force and she begins to hope for perhaps a different future. But, Harry has changed. He’s much more serious and formal. Hoping to get him to smile more, she reminds him of some of the childhood antics they once enjoyed including skipping rocks. Harrison is charmed by Christine and all his love for her comes back, but what happens when the letters are delivered? And when Christine learns he’ll be fighting for the repeal of the Corn Laws that will destroy her family’s estate, is there any hope for a future together?
Christine and Harry were so darling! I loved the otter incident, getting caught in the rain, their banter, and skipping rocks. Christine is such a fun, sunny character and I enjoyed the way she brought Harry out of his seriousness. It’s a delightful, quick, clean Victorian era novella that can easily be read in a day. Highly recommend! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author, but also purchased a copy through KU. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Harrison Chase has been in love with his childhood friend Christine Stone for years. As the son of her steward though, he didn’t feel worthy until he could make something of himself. When he left six years ago, he revealed his secret love for her in a letter which he never posted. Now a successful business man and about to run for a seat in Parliament, he’s put aside his past longings. That is until an overly dutiful housekeeper accidentally posts his letter. Harrison returns to his childhood home to try to intercept the letter before Christine sees it.
Christine’s estate is in trouble. Determined to help any way she can, she’s applied for a governess position, but she needs to intercept the possible acceptance letter before her brother sees it. When she sees Harrison again, her love for Harry which has never wavered returns full force and she begins to hope for perhaps a different future. But, Harry has changed. He’s much more serious and formal. Hoping to get him to smile more, she reminds him of some of the childhood antics they once enjoyed including skipping rocks. Harrison is charmed by Christine and all his love for her comes back, but what happens when the letters are delivered? And when Christine learns he’ll be fighting for the repeal of the Corn Laws that will destroy her family’s estate, is there any hope for a future together?
Christine and Harry were so darling! I loved the otter incident, getting caught in the rain, their banter, and skipping rocks. Christine is such a fun, sunny character and I enjoyed the way she brought Harry out of his seriousness. It’s a delightful, quick, clean Victorian era novella that can easily be read in a day. Highly recommend! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author, but also purchased a copy through KU. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
March 22, 2023
Oh how I adore this novella!!! I read it when it was originally released in an anthology and jumped at the chance to read it again! I've always loved stories with a letter premise. Handwritten letters hold so many sweet and tender memories for me. And this novella is just so delightful that you can't help but adore it and the characters in it.
Christine and Harrison have known each other all their lives. He's been off making his fortune and trying to change the world for better. She's been home, getting older while helping her family and seeing to the needs of those around her. Harrison didn't think he'd see her again. It was time to leave his heart behind and work towards the good of those who don't have a voice. Except his wonderful housekeeper helps him out by mailing a letter. Hee Hee!!! Reading that scene made me giggle as I imagined what Harrison's reaction would have been. His face in total shock. And excitement mixed with mortification. A letter he never intended to send to Christine is now on its way to her. Of course he does what anyone would do, rushes to intercept it.
I loved their first interaction again after not seeing each other for 6 years. Talk about cute and funny and embarrassing. And Harrison's heart is doomed. How could he not still love Christine? But of course he'll try to fight it and she'll of course keep being her most charming and delightful self and him trying to protect his heart is a lost cause.
Seriously read this one! It's charming, laugh out loud witty, great dialogue, delightful banter, wonderfully sweet chemistry and so much more!!!
Content: Sweet kisses and nothing more.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Christine and Harrison have known each other all their lives. He's been off making his fortune and trying to change the world for better. She's been home, getting older while helping her family and seeing to the needs of those around her. Harrison didn't think he'd see her again. It was time to leave his heart behind and work towards the good of those who don't have a voice. Except his wonderful housekeeper helps him out by mailing a letter. Hee Hee!!! Reading that scene made me giggle as I imagined what Harrison's reaction would have been. His face in total shock. And excitement mixed with mortification. A letter he never intended to send to Christine is now on its way to her. Of course he does what anyone would do, rushes to intercept it.
I loved their first interaction again after not seeing each other for 6 years. Talk about cute and funny and embarrassing. And Harrison's heart is doomed. How could he not still love Christine? But of course he'll try to fight it and she'll of course keep being her most charming and delightful self and him trying to protect his heart is a lost cause.
Seriously read this one! It's charming, laugh out loud witty, great dialogue, delightful banter, wonderfully sweet chemistry and so much more!!!
Content: Sweet kisses and nothing more.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
April 3, 2023
Да се четат книгите на Esther Hatch само по себе си е удоволствие. В по - голямата си част е забавно приключение сред атмосферата на Стара Англия. For Letter Or Worse ми хареса най - много от всички, които съм прочела до сега! Едно забравено писмо, изпратено по невнимание, може да предизвика пълно разбъркване на плановете на Харисън Чейс. Друго писмо, очаквано като последен изход, може да не е толкова желано от Кристин Стоун. Но пък няколко писма успяват да съберат приятели от детството. И сред спомени, съжаления, закачки, шеги и увлечения годините ще покажат кои чувства са били най - силни.
March 17, 2023
Have you ever written a letter just to get your feelings out of your head, never intending to send the letter or give it to the person? Now imagine if someone mails that letter thinking that they're helping you. That's what happens in this sweet story by Esther Hatch.
When Harrison Chase finds that his housekeeper mailed a letter found in a desk rushes to try and intercept it before Christine receives it. It was a letter he wrote to her six years ago and never mailed--it wasn't supposed to be mailed. While waiting each day for the post to arrive Harrison spends time with Christine where he finds again the love he thought he'd lost.
This is such a wonderful story. Not only is Harrison waiting for a letter, Christine is waiting for one too. Letters that can change not only their futures, but those of the people they care about. I love how the author always has her female characters get in unladylike predicaments like falling in streams. It makes for wonderful scenes in the readers' mind.
I originally read this as part of A Note of Change (Timeless Victorian Collection)
When Harrison Chase finds that his housekeeper mailed a letter found in a desk rushes to try and intercept it before Christine receives it. It was a letter he wrote to her six years ago and never mailed--it wasn't supposed to be mailed. While waiting each day for the post to arrive Harrison spends time with Christine where he finds again the love he thought he'd lost.
This is such a wonderful story. Not only is Harrison waiting for a letter, Christine is waiting for one too. Letters that can change not only their futures, but those of the people they care about. I love how the author always has her female characters get in unladylike predicaments like falling in streams. It makes for wonderful scenes in the readers' mind.
I originally read this as part of A Note of Change (Timeless Victorian Collection)
March 15, 2023
Adorable! Absolutely adorable! This was a novella and yet I would have been perfectly happy to have another 10-20 chapters to have it a full novel.
First off…Harrison. I love that name and it’s not often I find an mc with that name. His love for Christine was amazing and Esther sure knows how to write a perfect love story! That ending..😍 Everything came together wonderfully and I was so happy the conflict was so quick you could focus more on the sweet love story without feeling too sad.
If you’re looking for a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or evening, this is it. Loved it and am so happy I got to read this!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
First off…Harrison. I love that name and it’s not often I find an mc with that name. His love for Christine was amazing and Esther sure knows how to write a perfect love story! That ending..😍 Everything came together wonderfully and I was so happy the conflict was so quick you could focus more on the sweet love story without feeling too sad.
If you’re looking for a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or evening, this is it. Loved it and am so happy I got to read this!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 12, 2023
a short and sweet read... perfect if you have an hour or two. :)
March 17, 2023
What I love most about novellas is how fast the book flows and we are entering a developed story. This story was practically perfect in that way. Christine was a treasure. She was so funny. The things that went through her head were delightfully funny. There were many times I laughed out loud.
The skipping rocks lesson was my favorite. The banter and tension between Harry and Christine was lovely. I loved their history. They were absolutely perfect for each other.
I kept highlighting my favorites lines from the book, quickly realizing I could have highlighted the whole thing!
The skipping rocks lesson was my favorite. The banter and tension between Harry and Christine was lovely. I loved their history. They were absolutely perfect for each other.
I kept highlighting my favorites lines from the book, quickly realizing I could have highlighted the whole thing!
May 8, 2023
This bite-size historical romance hit the spot for me on a weekend when I didn't have a lot of time to read but needed to read something to keep my stress levels down! I love Esther Hatch's ability to make me feel all the things.
March 20, 2023
(4.5 stars) - a Letter for better!
The premise of this 11 chapter novella isn't original, but it's Esther Hatch! - So of course it's worth it!
The fun was trying to figure out when & where the letter would show up & who was going to get to it first. It's a sweet little snack of a story for a quick, happy read!
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
The premise of this 11 chapter novella isn't original, but it's Esther Hatch! - So of course it's worth it!
The fun was trying to figure out when & where the letter would show up & who was going to get to it first. It's a sweet little snack of a story for a quick, happy read!
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
May 9, 2023
Why is it that novellas are just so dang good?!?!? I loved this!!
Harry has spent the last 6 years of his life working HARD and living a not so sheltered life. Watching others suffer has propelled him into action and that is his sole focus. But when his housekeeper sends a love letter that was never meant to be sent, he knows he has to go retrieve it from the one place and person he never wanted to face again.
Christine has lived a quiet life, and except for her brother and parents, has missed the one person who always made her feel whole. So when her dearest friend shows up out of the blue and starts making her feels things she isn’t sure he returns, will she go through with her plans?
Although this was a novella, I sure felt ALL the feels in this book! So many swooney moments, the river, rock skipping, THE cuteness in the study!! You will love this book!!!
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
Harry has spent the last 6 years of his life working HARD and living a not so sheltered life. Watching others suffer has propelled him into action and that is his sole focus. But when his housekeeper sends a love letter that was never meant to be sent, he knows he has to go retrieve it from the one place and person he never wanted to face again.
Christine has lived a quiet life, and except for her brother and parents, has missed the one person who always made her feel whole. So when her dearest friend shows up out of the blue and starts making her feels things she isn’t sure he returns, will she go through with her plans?
Although this was a novella, I sure felt ALL the feels in this book! So many swooney moments, the river, rock skipping, THE cuteness in the study!! You will love this book!!!
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
September 29, 2024
Six years ago, Harry left home determined to work his way up the ladder and earn the means to one day court his childhood friend, Christine. At the time, he wrote her a letter, confessing his love and his hopes for the future--a letter he purposely never mailed.
Since then, he has succeeded in business, only to learn that there are larger issues at stake in the world than his own personal desires. Harry now knows that he may never have the means to court Christine.
Then--in the midst of packing his belongings for a move--a kind assistant mails the letter.
Harry rushes home to intercept the post. And instead, he gets intercepted by the young woman he once loved, who promptly pulls him into stream and back into TROUBLE.
A 100-page novella, easily and pleasantly devoured in a day.
Since then, he has succeeded in business, only to learn that there are larger issues at stake in the world than his own personal desires. Harry now knows that he may never have the means to court Christine.
Then--in the midst of packing his belongings for a move--a kind assistant mails the letter.
Harry rushes home to intercept the post. And instead, he gets intercepted by the young woman he once loved, who promptly pulls him into stream and back into TROUBLE.
A 100-page novella, easily and pleasantly devoured in a day.
March 16, 2023
What a charming story!!! I enjoyed this friends to more romance! It was really sweet to see Christine and Harry reconnect after 6 years apart. They had great chemistry and their romance slowly grew from friendship to more. I enjoyed that their past gave them a foundation to build, which made their connection seem genuine and not rushed. When all the prices start to fall into place this story really becomes fun!!! I enjoyed this novella!
April 27, 2024
Content:
Language: None.
Violence: None.
Sexual: Higher Mild. While still being clean, this had more heat to it. There is kissing of necks, biting ears, and general passionate making out. Not what I'd call steamy, because it doesn't use erotic language, but there's heat to it definitely.
This novella is the trope of 'love letter that was not meant to be sent got sent', and first thing I thought was: 'I've actually got one of those in my closet that I think I need to find and destroy with prejudice.' Haha.
After that first thought though, I was amused at the antics in this story, and nodding approval at the pacing. It's hard to properly pace novels under 150 pages but this one was spot on for not feeling either rushed or too slow in the romance, the character development or the plot.
The one thing that threw me was the beginning where I assumed I was reading a regency novel, but then Harrison hops on a train and is talking about factories. That popped me up to Victorian era, which made my brain stutter for a bit.
Christine and Harry are adorable. The childhood friends thing is well portrayed as they have inside jokes, and understand one another's core character. I was smiling through most of it, and the romance was swoony. I didn't much care for when it got more heated though, but Esther Hatch tends to be on the line for me with her romances. Once the characters confess, she really enjoys writing a good make-out session that leaves my poor shy self a bit uncomfortable. I'm more the type that enjoys the intellectual/emotional connection in romance than the physical manifestation of those things. Hence why I'm cool with innocent cuddles, chaste kisses, and hand holding, but incredibly awkward with the more intense stuff like open mouth kissing and ear nibbles and such. Even typing that was hard.
But, super fun read except for making me slightly uncomfortable there at the end!
Language: None.
Violence: None.
Sexual: Higher Mild. While still being clean, this had more heat to it. There is kissing of necks, biting ears, and general passionate making out. Not what I'd call steamy, because it doesn't use erotic language, but there's heat to it definitely.
This novella is the trope of 'love letter that was not meant to be sent got sent', and first thing I thought was: 'I've actually got one of those in my closet that I think I need to find and destroy with prejudice.' Haha.
After that first thought though, I was amused at the antics in this story, and nodding approval at the pacing. It's hard to properly pace novels under 150 pages but this one was spot on for not feeling either rushed or too slow in the romance, the character development or the plot.
The one thing that threw me was the beginning where I assumed I was reading a regency novel, but then Harrison hops on a train and is talking about factories. That popped me up to Victorian era, which made my brain stutter for a bit.
Christine and Harry are adorable. The childhood friends thing is well portrayed as they have inside jokes, and understand one another's core character. I was smiling through most of it, and the romance was swoony. I didn't much care for when it got more heated though, but Esther Hatch tends to be on the line for me with her romances. Once the characters confess, she really enjoys writing a good make-out session that leaves my poor shy self a bit uncomfortable. I'm more the type that enjoys the intellectual/emotional connection in romance than the physical manifestation of those things. Hence why I'm cool with innocent cuddles, chaste kisses, and hand holding, but incredibly awkward with the more intense stuff like open mouth kissing and ear nibbles and such. Even typing that was hard.
But, super fun read except for making me slightly uncomfortable there at the end!
September 1, 2024
I have yet to read a book by Esther that I didn't love! For such a short story it was packed full of love, emotion, conflict and yet so much fun banter. I loved it!
Harrison has always loved his neighbor Christine but he never felt good enough for her. So he moves away without any explanation with a plan of going off making something of himself , so he can come back and have a chance with her. When he leaves he writes a love note sharing why he left and why he will come back for her. But he never sends it. Six years pass and then one day his housekeeper sends his letter. He still loves Christine , but the fortune he has made no longer is for wedding plans but for helping the poor. So he no longer was going to try to court her. But once he finds out his love letter is on his way to her, he returns home to intercept it. But his return brings all the feelings back... and this time Christine is catching the feelings too. But unfortunately timing is everything and while he is waiting to intercept the love letter, she is waiting on a letter from another man, that isn't Harrison! BOTH pieces of mail represent Christines future... but which will arrive first, and what will she choose?! 💌
Harrison has always loved his neighbor Christine but he never felt good enough for her. So he moves away without any explanation with a plan of going off making something of himself , so he can come back and have a chance with her. When he leaves he writes a love note sharing why he left and why he will come back for her. But he never sends it. Six years pass and then one day his housekeeper sends his letter. He still loves Christine , but the fortune he has made no longer is for wedding plans but for helping the poor. So he no longer was going to try to court her. But once he finds out his love letter is on his way to her, he returns home to intercept it. But his return brings all the feelings back... and this time Christine is catching the feelings too. But unfortunately timing is everything and while he is waiting to intercept the love letter, she is waiting on a letter from another man, that isn't Harrison! BOTH pieces of mail represent Christines future... but which will arrive first, and what will she choose?! 💌
March 14, 2023
Can a six year old letter change the future?
This is a fun sweet story that first appeared in A Note of Change, A Timeless Victorian Romance Anthology. I thoroughly enjoyed it when I read the Anthology and I equally enjoyed this second reading. Harrison, the son of a poor steward, leaves for London to make his fortune. But he writes a letter to Christine, the estate owner’s daughter, telling her of his love for her and never meaning to send it to her. For six years he has hidden that letter as he indeed moved up from factory worker to business owner. Now he has sold his business and moved into smaller quarters and the letter has gone missing. Inquiring of his housekeeper, he finds that she mailed the letter thinking that was what he wanted. Now he must intercept that letter before Christine can discover his folly of loving her. Racing back to the estate he grew up on, he waits trying to protect his secret but he is not the only one hiding things Christine and her brother are both trying to keep things secret. What will happen if their secrets come out? A fun quick read to enjoy. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
This is a fun sweet story that first appeared in A Note of Change, A Timeless Victorian Romance Anthology. I thoroughly enjoyed it when I read the Anthology and I equally enjoyed this second reading. Harrison, the son of a poor steward, leaves for London to make his fortune. But he writes a letter to Christine, the estate owner’s daughter, telling her of his love for her and never meaning to send it to her. For six years he has hidden that letter as he indeed moved up from factory worker to business owner. Now he has sold his business and moved into smaller quarters and the letter has gone missing. Inquiring of his housekeeper, he finds that she mailed the letter thinking that was what he wanted. Now he must intercept that letter before Christine can discover his folly of loving her. Racing back to the estate he grew up on, he waits trying to protect his secret but he is not the only one hiding things Christine and her brother are both trying to keep things secret. What will happen if their secrets come out? A fun quick read to enjoy. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
March 19, 2023
I have loved every book I've read by Esther Hatch so I jumped at the chance for an ARC for this novella, it has a new name but it was previously A Note of Change in a Timeless Victorian romance antholog. It is now available on its own as "For Letter or Worse" | love novellas when I want a quick read to pass an evening and loved Harry and Christine's story. Harry grew up the steward's son for Christine's family and as such spent his childhood playing with Christine and her older brother.
Somewhere along the way she no longer became his best friend's little sister or a childhood playmate but instead he grew to love her. Knowing he wasn't worthy to ask to marry Christine, Harry set off to make his own way in the world in hopes of one day deserving Christine. He even wrote her a letter explaining such and decided to send it when he finally felt worthy. 6 years later that day had still never come but after a move the letter had gone missing from his desk drawer.
This novella follows Harry's quest to recover the lost letter before it is too late. This book is a mix of friends to lovers/ best friends little sister/second chance romance and I would definitely recommend it.
Somewhere along the way she no longer became his best friend's little sister or a childhood playmate but instead he grew to love her. Knowing he wasn't worthy to ask to marry Christine, Harry set off to make his own way in the world in hopes of one day deserving Christine. He even wrote her a letter explaining such and decided to send it when he finally felt worthy. 6 years later that day had still never come but after a move the letter had gone missing from his desk drawer.
This novella follows Harry's quest to recover the lost letter before it is too late. This book is a mix of friends to lovers/ best friends little sister/second chance romance and I would definitely recommend it.
March 16, 2023
This is such sweet story. The fun characters of Charlotte and Harry worked really well together. Waiting for their letters could have been pure drudgery. But their fun banter and playfulness, made it enjoyable and endearing. I read this story as part of - A Note of Change collection. The author has rereleased it as - For Letter or Worse and it only got better the second time reading it. It is a short and entertaining afternoon read.
March 25, 2023
Delightful little gem!
This is a delightful novella! I first read it back in 2020 as part of a compilation project. On seeing this released on it’s own I was glad to rediscover it.
It starts off showing Harrison a serious young man determined to right the wrongs in society. A grave contrast of the first glimpse we see of Christine, a seemingly frivolous girl lost in a daydream of country life. But both Christine has more depth that she appears to have at first glance. Harrison has forgotten what it’s like to find joy in life from the simple things.
I love the friendly banter that appears when the two childhood friends meet for the first time in 6 years. Then I loves watching their friendly banter turn into flirting and then loving looks.
Great short distraction of a read that filled me with happiness!
Rating: G, clean, flirty and fun, triggers: social issues discussed but not shown on page of people, including children dying in from hunger.
This is a delightful novella! I first read it back in 2020 as part of a compilation project. On seeing this released on it’s own I was glad to rediscover it.
It starts off showing Harrison a serious young man determined to right the wrongs in society. A grave contrast of the first glimpse we see of Christine, a seemingly frivolous girl lost in a daydream of country life. But both Christine has more depth that she appears to have at first glance. Harrison has forgotten what it’s like to find joy in life from the simple things.
I love the friendly banter that appears when the two childhood friends meet for the first time in 6 years. Then I loves watching their friendly banter turn into flirting and then loving looks.
Great short distraction of a read that filled me with happiness!
Rating: G, clean, flirty and fun, triggers: social issues discussed but not shown on page of people, including children dying in from hunger.
March 15, 2023
Oh what fun!
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
While it must have been nerve wracking for the characters, the story was a fun read. Each is waiting for mail they don't want anyone else to see, spending time together while doing so.
They tease each other like only good friends or siblings can... but which of those does she consider him... Wait. No. It doesn't matter he's not good enough for her and he was important work to do in London... Right?
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
While it must have been nerve wracking for the characters, the story was a fun read. Each is waiting for mail they don't want anyone else to see, spending time together while doing so.
They tease each other like only good friends or siblings can... but which of those does she consider him... Wait. No. It doesn't matter he's not good enough for her and he was important work to do in London... Right?
Read
September 1, 2023Read in A Note of Change Collection
October 21, 2023
June
The story is cute and quick. It is told by Christine and Harrison. They are both waiting on letters to arrive, which results in a few mishaps and misunderstandings. It also leads to a new romance and a renewed friendship. The ending is sweet, but not quite what I had in mind. I am hoping for additional stories or novels in the future.
The story is cute and quick. It is told by Christine and Harrison. They are both waiting on letters to arrive, which results in a few mishaps and misunderstandings. It also leads to a new romance and a renewed friendship. The ending is sweet, but not quite what I had in mind. I am hoping for additional stories or novels in the future.
May 13, 2024
Sweet Regency Love Tale
A letter written 6 years prior is sent to a young lady by accident. The letter's Author rushes to Dorset to stop it's delivery and finds himself immeshed in his past. Lovely tale.
A letter written 6 years prior is sent to a young lady by accident. The letter's Author rushes to Dorset to stop it's delivery and finds himself immeshed in his past. Lovely tale.
March 15, 2023
Love this novella! The premise of the story is very fun with Harrison trying to keep Christine from receiving his letter written long ago. Harrison and Christine have such a cute "friends to more" relationship. This is definitely on my reread list.
March 22, 2023
Esther Hatch books are always a yes for me. This was no different. I loved the relationship between the two main characters, Harry and Christine. Christine was such a tease, always “pulling” him into unpleasant situations.
Harry was very vulnerable and sweet in his relationship with Christine, even though he tried to steel his heart. There was an element of misunderstanding in this plot, but it was central to it and not overly done, resulting in a perfect ending!
This is a sweet, clean romance novella. I heartily recommend it. I know you’ll enjoy it, as much as Christine enjoyed the rock skipping instruction!
Harry was very vulnerable and sweet in his relationship with Christine, even though he tried to steel his heart. There was an element of misunderstanding in this plot, but it was central to it and not overly done, resulting in a perfect ending!
This is a sweet, clean romance novella. I heartily recommend it. I know you’ll enjoy it, as much as Christine enjoyed the rock skipping instruction!
March 18, 2023
Such a lovely novella! Second chance/friends to lovers at its finest! Esther Hatch can write no wrong. I will read and devour anything she writes. This was short, sweet and complete for a novella. I love how Esther writes stories involving merchants and not just gentry. I love the struggles Harry went through to get to Christine. Makes it that much sweeter. Definitely recommend this one!
March 24, 2023
This was a cute, fun little story. You can never go wrong with Esther Hatch.
July 4, 2023
3.5 stars
July 31, 2023
Read it a while back and enjoyed it. Probably could re-read it again.
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