Courting Miss Lancaster

The Lancaster Family #2

by Sarah M. Eden

Harry Windower adores blonde, green-eyes Athena Lancaster, but alas, a penniless man like himself has no hope of winning a young noblewoman's hand. To add insult to injury, Athena's brother-in-law and guardian, the Duke of Kielder, has asked Harry to assist Athena in finding a gentleman of her dreams. But the lovesick Harry is cunning as well: as the weeks pass, he introduces Athena to suitors who are horrifically boring, alarmingly attached to their mothers, downright rude, astoundingly self-absorbed, and utterly ridiculous.

Athena can't comprehend why she is having so little success meeting eligible and acceptable gentlemen. Indeed, her circle of admirers couldn't be be less admirable - nothing like the loyal, gentle friend she's found in Harry. But how long can Harry's scheme be hidden before it is discovered? And what will Athena do when she uncovers Harry's deception?

Escape into a charming regency world in this delightfully romantic comedy of manners that will entertain you to the very last word.

Genres: Romance, Regency, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Historical, Clean Romance

205 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Maria Clara · Rating 3 out of 5]

EL PRIMER LIBRO DE ESTA SERIE ME ENCANTÓ! AHÍ LO DEJO...🤫

Vamos, fue ver que era un retelling de La bella y la Bestia, ambientado en la regencia, e ir directo a comprarlo! Es más, solo puedo decirte que me lo leí cómo si fuera una taza de chocolate con su cresta de nata☕!

Así que, como puedes imaginarte, corrí a por el segundo: "LA DAMA Y EL PLEBEYO".

¿Te estarás preguntando si me gusto esta historia, verdad? Bien, déjame preguntarte antes si el título te suena a cuento de hadas🍒

¿Verdad que sí?

Pues imagina a una dama en plena regencia, con su círculo cerrado de amistades, sus bailes... ¿Crees que dicha dama dejaría que un hombre sin fortuna se acercase a ella o que su familia lo permitiría?

Exacto!

Así que puedes imaginarte lo que me duró este libro y lo hice inmediatamente después de leerlo, ¿no?🍎

[Tandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This held up to a reread. Still 5 Harry and Athena stars. Very swoony! This was a totally clean read. I can’t believe how sexy Sarah Eden made hand holding!

********************
First of all, the cover is off putting. The woman isn't ugly, it's just weird and cheesy looking. Especially when compared to Eden's Friends and Foes. It shouldn't matter, but I suppose it does a little since I took this long to read Courting Miss Lancaster. Even the title is unexceptional.

The story is sweet and fun! Can you believe that a book can be fluffy and romantic, despite an uninspiring cover? I think there might be a saying about that...anyhoo, I digress.

Athena and her brood of matchy-named sibs live with their sister, Persephone, and her wealthy, cranky, Duke of a husband. Duke-bro has reluctantly agreed to give Athena a season. Due to his extreme aversion to society in general, he tasks his outgoing BFF Harry with rejecting duds and finding Athena a suitable husband. After all, he's like a brother, isn't he?

A feely-good read. Nothing unexpected in the plot, but I didn't mind at all.

[Kathy * Bookworm Nation · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy this one!

Poor Harry has fallen for someone completely out of his reach, the beautiful Athena Lancaster, the sister-in-law to his best friend the dreaded Duke of Kielder. Not only is Harry penniless and therefore unsuitable himself, he has be given the task to help the Duke sort out and find a suitable match for Athena. I loved the twist Harry takes in his matchmaking attempts, instead of introducing men Athena might like, he introduces men with questionable characteristics with the intent of showing Athena what she does not want in a potential husband. This leads to some very fun encounters, as well as some uncomfortable and upsetting ones as well. Athena will definitely learn what she doesn't want in a man!

Harry is just a likable character, I liked that we got to see behind his lightheartedness more in this novel. A part of me always wishes Adam would notice what Harry is going through, he's totally blind to the turmoil Harry is in. As his best friend, I wish he would have at least in the end noticed Harry's abrupt departure and showed some concern about why he suddenly left. Its obvious he cares for Harry, but comes across kind of self-centered in his obvious lack of concern for him at times. I love his loyalty and how he treats those he cares about. He's very likable and charming. I also liked Athena, I liked how in both books (this and Seeking Persephone) the point is made that our love story may not play out the way we always planned. Both books show different kinds of love and it's important to keep your options open and realize that you're happily ever after may come about in the most unexpected ways. I loved Eden’s take on marriage, which can sometimes be painting in a negative light in Regency novels, but Eden brings an honesty and love that was endearing and true.

This was my first Eden book, and have read all her published books multiple times. I loved the characters Athena and Harry, they were so cute with each other and as the story went on I just liked them more and more. I loved the supporting characters as well; the formidable Duke and loving sister Persephone. The plot was a lot of fun, especially the crazy guys Harry was introducing to Athena. I would definitely recommend this to everyone, especially those who love romance, regency and humor. Crossing my fingers for more books in the Lancaster series!

Content
Romance: Squeaky clean - kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: None

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[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courting Miss Lancaster made me smile and laugh which is hard to do for me in a novel, but with Harry Windover, I found it very easy. He has been appointed, so to speak by the Duke of Kielder to find a husband for his sister-in-law, Athena. The only problem is Harry is in love with Athena and well, Adam, the Duke of Kielder has specifically stated that Harry is to make sure that none of her suitors will be fortune hunters because Athena has a substantial dowry to bring to the marriage. Harry is as poor as they come, and so he makes sure all of the men he brings to Athena's attention are complete and utter bores. I really enjoyed this!

[Serena Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ha sido una lectura que me ha gustado bastante, al ser un clean romance se nota que le falta de esa pasión que a mi tanto me gusta, y no ha llegado a gustarme tanto como el primero... pero me ha hecho reir y ha sido una historia bonita. Harry y Athenea son perfectos el uno para el otro

[Kay’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Spoiler-Free Book Review✨
Courting Miss Lancaster
Sarah M. Eden
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is the second book in the Lancaster Family Regency Romance series, and I am happy to report it was just as delightful as book one!! 🤭

When I realized this story was following Harry, I genuinely squealed. He was my favorite side character in the first book, and getting his story felt like such a gift. If you love a cheeky, charming, golden-retriever hero, this one is for you. 🤩

This book also follows Athena, Persephone’s younger sister, as she enters her very first Season in London. Athena is optimistic and romantic in the sweetest way. She doesn’t have a checklist for what she wants in a husband, she simply believes that when she meets the right man, she’ll know. 😌

Now here’s where it gets fun.

Harry is best friends with Adam - Athena’s brother-in-law / guardian - and Adam (an influential Duke) absolutely despises London society. So he asks Harry to help “weed out” unsuitable suitors during Athena’s Season. The problem? Harry is secretly in love with her. 👀

And he is not considered an eligible match himself because of his lack of fortune and status, marrying Athena would make him appear to be a fortune hunter - something he refuses to risk. 😭 So instead, he does the most self-sacrificing, heartbreaking thing: he agrees to help her find someone else. 🥺

But in true Harry fashion, he introduces her to gentlemen with very obvious flaws - hoping she’ll discover what she doesn’t want in a husband. The parade of eccentric, ridiculous, and deeply unsuitable suitors makes this book laugh-out-loud funny. The social situations alone are worth reading it for. 😂🌲🌳

What makes this story so special, though, is that it’s deeply character-driven. Watching Athena slowly fall in love - without realizing she’s falling in love - is precious. This is not love at first sight. It’s tender, gradual, and built on friendship, care, and devotion. 💕

The way Harry cares for Athena is the definition of swoon-worthy. 😫

If you love:
• Regency ballroom settings
• Banter and humor
• Friends-to-lovers tension
• A self-sacrificing hero
• Interconnected family dynamics

…you will adore this book.🤭

I also loved that while this is Harry and Athena’s story, the characters from book one still play a significant role. Adam, especially, remains central, and I really recommend reading book one first so you fully understand the relationships and personalities at play. 👏

✝️ As for faith content, it’s light. There are small mentions of prayer and God that feel natural to the time period, but faith is not a central driving theme. It’s completely clean - no worldly content!

This book was everything I love about the genre: heartfelt, hilarious, tender, swoony, and full of charm. I cannot wait to continue on to book three. 🤩

Highly, highly recommend!!!! 💛
***
‼️⚠️Content Warnings⚠️‼️
Mild violence, kisses only, sexual assault (forced kiss)

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Regency Romance

Book 2 of the series, set in London in 1806, a year after book 1 began. I enjoyed this Regency Romance, but unfortunately what I liked most were the scenes that involved Adam, the Duke of Kielder, from book 1, Seeking Persephone. Adam plays a key role in this book, both alone and with his Duchess, Persephone. Adam has become legal guardian to his wife's four siblings, including her sister Athena (the heroine). So...as guardian, Adam must play the noble knight and ride to Athena's rescue, slaying the dragon who would besmirch her name. More than once, Adam shines in this role, while Athena's hero, Harry, is relegated to supportive sidekick status.

It had to go down that way, because Harry could not fight for Athena's honor -- Eden is a stickler for following Regency-era societal conventions -- but it created an imbalance in the story. Eden should have devised a different plot, one where Harry could be heroic without raising any brows (saving Athena from drowning, perhaps, or from a run-away carriage, a rabid dog...I dunno....somehow putting himself in harm's way for her).

Other flaws: I liked Harry more in book 1. In this book, he does a few things that cause me to question his character and his intelligence, as well as his devotion to Athena.

Found it hard to swallow the scene at Athena's ball, when the Duke (Adam) and the Price Regent engage in a little silent contest for alpha status. Seemed absurd.

And...Why is there no mention of the oh-so-important ducal heir, the catalyst for Adam and Persephone's marriage???

Best scenes: At Whites, when Adam and Harry confronted Sir Hubert Collington. Smashing good show! I also enjoyed the scene in the park, with the vicious Mrs. Handly. The sickroom scene was very sweet, where Harry brings violets to feverish Athena -- Adam calls them a bunch of weeds. Two scenes involve young Daphne and Adam. Sweet! Hope we see more of Daphne, in a sequel.

Recommended, especially for those who loved book 1. Adam and Persephone engage in various delightfully lovin' little scenes. Note, no sex in the series. Only hugs and kisses.

I loved the first book in this series, but the Kindle version is almost 3 times the cost of book 2. Maybe it will go on sale. See my 5-star review of Seeking Persephone: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

[Janette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll admit right off that I'm slightly biased about Sarah Eden's book because she is one of my favorite people. If you are ever lucky enough to be at a conference where she's teaching, go to her class. Trust me. She's a riot.

I've already read Sarah's book Seeking Persephone, so I was glad to see Adam and Harry again. This time Harry is the hero and the book switches pov between him and Athena.

I loved the humor between Adam and Harry. In fact, I have to say I was a lot more engrossed in their relationship than I was in Harry and Athena's. (Probably not what a romance writer wants to hear, but still, she did an excellent job of playing them off each other. I especially love Adam's reaction during the big reveal scene.)

People who love regency romances without all the bodice ripping will want to read this book.

[♥Milica♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly I'd like to thank all the people who were ahead of me and decided to skip so I could have this book sooner, you're the real MVPs. I didn't think I'd get it this year but I did!!

OK now, Harry is such a delightful character and by far the funniest in the series. I love his banter with Adam, Persephone and Athena. He's sweet, kind and only wants the best for Athena.

It was painful watching him as he suffered because he thought he couldn't be good enough for her based on his material status. You were always good enough Harry baby!!!!

I loved their interactions (when he wasn't introducing her to potential suitors), especially the hand holding (I'm screeching in the distance). I love that their relationship was built on friendship, and is much stronger as a result.

I also loved Adam's reaction to finding out about Harry's love for Athena, it was hilarious and simply perfect. And very Adam.

[Dab · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yaaaaawn this was boring…

I should’ve loved it, the premise sounded good and cinnamon roll heroes are my favorite, but 🥱. Harry and Athena had the chemistry of cardboard cutouts, and the ridiculous suitors were not funny at all. Especially the one that assaulted her. (Surprise!)

I gave this series another chance but that’s it, I’m ditching it.

TW: sexual assault

[Kathy Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

While chatting with some bookish friends recently, I realized that I have not read all of the books in the Lancaster/Jonquil series. So I thought, what better way to start off 2021 than to read the series in order. Needless to say, I'm a bit excited to read them all!

Harry! *dreamy sigh* I have loved Harry since I first met him in Seeking Persephone. He has got to be one of the best side characters ever. I couldn't wait to dive into his story. If anyone deserves a HEA, it is him!

Sadly, I had a hard time connecting with Athena at first. From Seeking Persephone, I envisioned her as a bit self centered from Artemis's letters. She was far too worried about her coming out than her family. If I'm being honest, it's always bugged me. It wasn't until she finally realized her feelings for Harry that I actually started connecting with her. I'm thinking it,s probably my mood because all my bookish friends absolutely adore this book.

I've come to the conclusion that I'm not a big fan of friends to lovers stories. Especially when the heroes in said stories are trying to hook the heroine up with someone else. Granted he was commanded to do it and he tried his best to sabotage Athena's chances with any and all suitors, but it left me feeling sad for Harry. I wished Adam would've woken up a bit and realized what his best friend was going through.

Now, don't get me wrong, I really did enjoy this book. I just wished that the ending would've happened sooner and that we could have seen more of the courting going on. But don't worry. These little things are not going to stop me from reading the book again.

I'm sure I'm just like everyone else when I say, Ms. Eden became an instant favorite of mine. Her books always capture me and give me that much needed break from reality. I'm looking forward to reading all her books that I haven't read yet.

And of course I can't forget my casting! I'm loving these two! What do you think?

[Océano de libros · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harry Windover está enamorado de Atenea Lancaster, pero sabe que él no es el candidato, puesto que no tiene dinero ni título, las posibilidades matrimoniales son nulas. Todo se complica cuando su amigo Adam Boyce, duque de Kielder le encomienda la tarea de buscar un futuro esposo para Atenea.

Atenea sueña con encontrar el verdadero amor, lo que no sabe es que Harry está boicoteando esa búsqueda.

Segunda novela de la serie “The Lancaster family” donde nuestro protagonista principal es Harry Windover, el único amigo del duque de Kielder, que conocimos en el primer libro.

Harry es un joven divertido e irónico, humilde, leal y el único capaz de lidiar con el difícil carácter de Adam.

Atenea Lancaster es una de las hermanas de Perséfone, la duquesa de Kielder. Gracias a la generosidad de su cuñado dispone de una buena dote y está lista para una temporada en Londres y encontrar a su futuro esposo. Es una jovencita ingenua, romántica y con poca experiencia en la sociedad, Harry se convierte en su apoyo, en el mejor amigo, solo que no todo es lo que parece.

Harry está enamorado de Atenea, pero sabe que él nunca podrá ser más que su amigo, él más que nadie sabe que no cuenta con dinero ni título que aportar, no es un cazafortunas y su fuerte lealtad hacia Adam le impide pensar... https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...

[Fiebre Lectora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harry está enamorado de Atenea desde que la conoció, pero ella es ahora la cuñada del duque de Kielder, y él no tiene ni título ni dinero, así que sabe que no puede aspirar a ella. Todo empeora cuando el duque le pide que ayude a Atenea durante la temporada para encontrar al caballero de sus sueños, y él decide presentarle a hombres... que no son los ideales. Ella, por su parte, no entiende por qué tiene tan poco éxito, ni por qué atrae a individuos tan poco deseables y aburridos. Harry es mucho más interesante que cualquiera de ellos...

¡Pero qué novela tan adictiva, graciosa y mona! Los personajes son absolutamente adorables, y el hecho de que Harry haya tenido que hacer de casamentero para la mujer de la que está enamorado es de lo más emocionante: cómo se van acercando y su relación se estrecha, a pesar de que Atenea no termina de darse cuenta de sus verdaderos sentimientos.

He disfrutado mucho de la lectura, es ligera y entretenida, pero también aparecen temas como el machismo, y todos los problemas a los que deben enfrentarse las jóvenes que buscan pareja, y cómo ellos no siempre son agradables. Lo he devorado del tirón, y ha sido estupendo.

Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/202...

[Lucía Cafeína · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 💕
Qué gracioso y tierno. Cómo tiene que hacer de celestino a pesar de estar enamoradísimo, y cómo ella no se da cuenta de sus verdaderos sentimientos; ha sido una monada y lo he devorado del tirón.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah M. Eden was put on this earth to be a writer. Yes. She. Was. I love her books. I just love them. They are clean, fun, witty and everything you need in a sweet romance. It's not just the fact that it all ends with a "happily ever after." It's the fact that the story is so well written along the way that you enjoy it up until there is the happily ever after.

I think the reason I loved this one so much was the fact that I adored Harry. I loved how sweet he was. I love the fact that he was kind and adoring. I think the reason that I loved their love story so much to was the fact that in a weird way it reminded me of mine. When I met my soul mate it wasn't love at first site. But it was a million little moments that showed me how perfect he was for me. He adores me, loves me, treats me like every day is my Birthday/anniversary/mother's day/valentines day all rolled into one. He is also my Best friend. That is what I saw when I read this. I saw a man who just adored a women and wanted to spend the rest of his life showing her how much he loved her. But was also her best friend.

Loved it.

[Camille · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not only was Courting Miss Lancaster super cute, it was so fun continuing the stories of the characters I came to love in Seeking Persephone, especially the friendly, charming, and cheerful Harry.

This novel had much more lightheartedness than its more gothic-feeling predecessor. Poor Harry finds himself tasked with helping the woman he loves— but which he’s considered ineligible to pursue— a husband. While his plight is already sympathetic, I loved the twist Harry takes in his matchmaking attempts of introducing Athena to men with questionable and unlikable characteristics with the intent of showing her what she doesn't want in a potential husband. Naturally, this leads both to fun and humorous encounters, as well as uncomfortable and upsetting ones. Along the way, Athena comes to realize that perhaps what she's been looking for in a husband may have been with her the entire time.

The romance between Harry and Athena was adorable; not only were they extremely cute together, but I loved how a solid friendship was the foundation of their relationship. I also really enjoyed seeing a continual of Adam and Persephone’s now developed married relationship, and, as always, Adam and Harry’s banter was amusing.

I was particularly touched by the novel's message that while our love stories may not play out the way we expect, our happily ever after can still come, even if it’s in an unexpected way.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Eden's Friends and Foes but I wasn't a big fan of this one and only finished it because I liked Harry. It just felt a little too unsophisticated and derivative for me (some of the characters and scenes felt right out of the A&E Pride and Prejudice -- I'm looking at you, Mrs. Handley/Langley* aka Lady Catherine) and I wasn't a fan of the Duke of Kielder and he is in it a great deal. I don't mind the acerbic wit and disdain for social niceties (plenty of swoon-worthy gents in fiction with those qualities), but I found it off-putting that so much humor in the book was bound up in people being terrified of him or the threats (or actual acts) of doing physical harm to those who transgressed him. It just wasn't amusing to me in the slightest. Fortunately, he is not the hero of this story, his friend Harry is -- and I quite liked Harry :-) He's your typical nice guy, almost too nice for his own good and I found his missteps here frustrating and ill-chosen but without malice. The resulting fall-out (I give nothing away as it is mentioned on the back cover!) and resolution is believable given the emotional maturity of the characters and I must say I quite liked the final chapter. I didn't have much interest in Athena, the titular Miss Lancaster. She felt fairly one-dimensional to me and so very young (I could see myself enjoying this one more when I was a teenager). it is her first Season (and a Little one at that) so she plans debut and be engaged in just a few months' time to a man she really loves and at first has few requirements in a suitor but then thinks deeper and discovers more and more "must have" qualities (after Harry continually throws her in the path of suitors with decidedly unappealing characteristics). Her dream is to meet her perfect man in the midst of a ball and just know they are meant to be together (I can hear "Some Enchanted Evening" in my mind as her theme song). Of course, Harry loves her all along and she might just do a little growing-up by the end when she realizes that sometimes love isn't an instant meeting of the eyes but a long-standing affection that grows deeper. Persephone, her elder sister and wife of the Duke of Kielder, was more interesting to me than Athena, but I don't like her enough to want to put up with an entire book with the Duke as our leading man, so I will skip her book which is #1 in this series. Athena has other sisters, who appear to take the lead in subsequent books. Daphne interested me somewhat in this one, but I imagine the Duke (her guardian) will be even more unbearable during her Season since she's his favorite sister-in-law so I may pass on that one, too. I will probably try another Eden at some time as they are pleasant enough to read and I did enjoy Friends & Foes more than this one.

*I hope that the major error in this book will be corrected in future editions. On page 67, Mr. Handley suddenly changes into Mr. Langley -- this continues for some time until he reverts to Mr. Handley again. (His mother, too, goes from Mrs. Handley to Mrs. Langley.)

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet Regency read was fun to listen to. I really enjoyed Seeking Persephone, so it was fun to see Adam and Persephone appear in this novel, as well.

I really felt for Harry and how he loved Athena, yet felt he could never offer for her because of his reduced means. Yet, he was such a support and constant in her life, being so much more to her than she even realized until it seemed it might be too late!

There were some humorous moments in the story, as well as some that were serious and tugged at my heart. I really liked the way the author wrapped everything up for their happily ever after. It was very sweet.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

¡Cómo me gusta esta familia! Y cuánto he disfrutado de esta historia; diría, incluso, que me ha gustado más que la primera porque si bien Adam es todo lo que está bien en el mundo y he amado verlo aquí, lo cierto es que, vista como un todo, siento que esta es más redonda. Por la complejidad de los protas (A Harry lo he amado con locura), el desarrollo de la trama, el equilibrado sentido del humor y el grado justo de drama; la comparsa de secundarios, a cuál más interesante; en fin, que lo he pasado bomba y me ha dado una pena tremenda terminarlo. Así que voy corriendo por el que sigue porque Daphne ♥

[Carmen Cayuela riquel]

La dama y el plebeyo es el segundo libro de la serie Lancaster, y nos cuenta la historia de Atenea, la hermana de Persefone, la protagonista del primer libro, y Harry, mejor amigo del duque y me ha encantado.
Harry es el mejor amigo que cualquiera podría tener y como futuro marido ya es increíble, maravilloso, súper antento.
De Atenea me esperaba más pero aun así me ha encantado su carácter.
De lo mejor del libro, tanto como del anterior, son las conversaciones entre Adam y Harry.
Os lo recomiendo muchísimo.

[Mira :)]

Might finish it later. I'm not in the mood for a low angst.

[Sotiris Karaiskos · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a lighter tone the second book in the series - but without moving significantly away - as we watch the wonderful characters of the first put forward the plan to marry the second daughter of the Lancaster family. Of course, this was not an easy task at the time as parents and guardians had to pay special attention to the type of grooms who approach the beautiful, charismatic and rich daughters, give advice and intervene vigorously when something goes catastrophically wrong. It all sounds like a transaction but somewhere there is love to complicate things, a love that may not have the intensity of romantic novels, may not need as much searching, may create sadness but in the end, is the only way to happiness.

The author presents these to us in a playful way at the beginning, but it slowly leads to deeper emotions, without particular surprises and upheavals, in these little things that connect people and make life worthwhile. So the reader is left with a smile to accompany happy thoughts and - why not - with a few tears in the corners of the eyes. You see, in the end, maybe it is more important for a book, to make you feel good, to take you a little from the petty reality to something better that may lurk in our lives as well. A beautiful and very enjoyable book.

Σε περισσότερο ελαφρύ τόνο το δεύτερο βιβλίο της σειράς - χωρίς όμως να απομακρυνόμαστε σημαντικά - καθώς παρακολουθούμε τους υπέροχους χαρακτήρες του πρώτου να βάζουν μπροστά το σχέδιο για να παντρέψουν τη δεύτερη κόρη της οικογένειας Λάνκαστερ. Φυσικά αυτό τότε δεν ήταν μία εύκολη υπόθεση καθώς έπρεπε οι γονείς και οι κηδεμόνες να δώσουν ιδιαίτερη προσοχή στο είδος των υποψηφίων γαμπρών που προσεγγίζουν τις όμορφες, χαρισματικές και πλούσιες κόρες, να δώσουν συμβουλές και να παρέμβουν δυναμικά όταν κάτι πηγαίνει καταστροφικά στραβά. Όλα αυτά μοιάζουν με συναλλαγή αλλά κάπου εκεί βρίσκεται ο έρωτας να κάνει περίπλοκα τα πράγματα, ένας έρωτας που μπορεί να μην έχει την ένταση των ρομαντικών μυθιστορημάτων, μπορεί να μη χρειάζεται τόση αναζήτηση, μπορεί να δημιουργεί στεναχώρια αλλά στο τέλος είναι ο μοναδικός τρόπος για την ευτυχία.

Αυτά μας τα παρουσιάζει η συγγραφέας με έναν παιχνιδιάρικο τρόπο στην αρχή που όμως οδηγεί σιγά-σιγά σε βαθύτερα συναισθήματα, χωρίς ιδιαίτερες εκπλήξεις και αναταράξεις, σε αυτά τα μικρά πράγματα που συνδέουν τους ανθρώπους και κάνουν τη ζωή να αξίζει τον κόπο. Έτσι ο αναγνώστης μένει με ένα χαμόγελο να συνοδεύει χαρούμενες σκέψεις και - γιατί όχι - με μερικά δάκρυα στις άκρες των ματιών. Βλέπετε, στο τέλος, ίσως έχει περισσότερη σημασία ένα βιβλίο να σε κάνει να νιώσεις καλά, να σε πάρει λίγο από την πεζή πραγματικότητα σε κάτι καλύτερο που ίσως όμως παραμονεύει και στις δικές μας ζωές. Ένα πανέμορφο και πολύ ευχάριστο βιβλίο.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Romancing Daphne I had to go back and read the other books in this series. I didn't like this one quite as much as Romancing Daphne but it is still a great book! Looking forward to reading the other one in this series.

Content: Clean

[Debbie DiFiore · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow but endearing

This is not a passionate romance at all. They don't even kiss until the end. They are friends to lovers basically and he has been tasked with finding her a suitable suitor. The problem is, he's in love with her and doesn't want her to find somebody else. He has no money or title so he thinks her guardian, his best friend, will dismiss him out of turn. She has a huge dowry and he doesn't want to be considered a fortune hunter. But he loves her. Hopelessly, or so he thinks. He introduces her to the worst lot of suitors you can find. It was very cute though and made me smile. There is an actual fortune hunter that tries to corner her but she distracted by Harry and her Guardian-brother in law. They are so good together. I loved their interactions almost more than the romance! Lol. Just a very cute and endearing romance. Slow and I almost lost interest but I am glad I finished it. No passionate scenes at all. Just fyi. I need to find the others in This series. I read it out of order I believe. But they sound interesting.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fifth star because I’ve never before read a novelist who could so effectively replace the first-sex-scene in modern romance novels with steamy handholding. Harry, in love with Athena but too poor to court her, offers to help screen her suitors for her misanthropic brother-in-law, but is certain he ought to persuade her to be pickier so introduces her to less than thrilling suitors. Much better than the third book. There is not enough interaction among the sisters, or really among any of the protagonists - I guess there is a drawback to “show don’t tell”. But still. Steamy handholding must be my kink.

[Babel · Rating 4 out of 5]

¿Quién se resiste a una comedia de enredos vestida de gala?

Siento que este segundo libro es la continuación indispensable de una historia que adoré en el primer libro. ¡Si Adam y Perséfone disfrutan de un protagonismo estelar! Confieso que me ha encantado poder regodearme en su dicha matrimonial. Son una pareja perfectamente avenida y adorable. Es una de las maravillosas ventajas de leer libros que se basan en las vivencias de una familia, en este caso, los Lancaster y sus parejas.

Esto es un vergel de romances porque le toca el turno a la hermana de Perséfone de buscar un pretendiente a su mano. Algo que se va a convertir en una auténtica cruzada por culpa del ambiguo sentido del deber de Harry, el gran amigo del duque. Es una premisa divertidísima y juguetona que funciona sin perder ritmo gracias a la narración ingeniosa, los personajes bien compenetrados y la esencia inocente del argumento.

La dinámica que montan Adam y Harry entre ellos es la monda. El fiero duque ruge como un dragón y su fiel amigo se burla de su falta de tacto social como el más sagaz de los bufones de la Corte. En esta segunda novela, de nuevo se plantea un plan estrambótico como conductor del argumento amoroso, nada menos que hallar al pretendiente idóneo para la debutante candorosa y bella, Atenea, la hermana de la duquesa.

Al bueno y humilde Harry se le ocurre la brillante estrategia de hacer desfilar a una troupe de caballeros que luzcan como pavos reales ante la damisela. ¿Tiene la esperanza de despertar su sentido crítico o quizás de favorecer su causa? ¡Aquí está la gracia de la estratagema! El muy pillín se debate entre su propio enamoramiento y su honor, que le aconseja desentenderse de una causa perdida. Si no hay nada más romántico que un hombre atormentado por un amor no correspondido...

El resultado de sus subterfugios es una feria de las vanidades rebosante de humor, ironía y cortejos que se van a pique para consternación de la ilusionada dama. Lo que me he divertido. Todo ello relatado con un lenguaje rico y vivaz que enmarca los escenarios de fiestas, bailes y cenas de temporada en la tan literaria ciudad de Londres de 1806.

Estos líos no están exentos de sus tropiezos, pero toda aventura en pos del amor debe tener su pequeña dosis de corazón roto y lecciones vitales. Me ha encantado la forma en que la autora saca a la luz el embrollo y aclara las confusas emociones que unen a Atenea y Harry. En especial, la reacción del duque ante el secreto. Eso ha sido magistral y muy enternecedor, si es que se puede considerar tierno al muy apabullante y temible duque.

Me lo he pasado muy bien con este romance imposible (muy dulce) y con las peripecias de los dos amigos (afines hasta como acosadores de los malos). Estoy contentísima con esta serie y espero que continúe hasta el final. ¡La próxima es Dafne! <3

[Samantha Carter]

Re-read as of 01/11/22
I actually loved this even more the second time around. The characters are all so charming, and I adore Harry and Athena and their relationship, it's so pure and sweet. I LOVE the humor, it felt exactly like a historical rom-com. And I loved seeing Adam and Persephone's moments as now a true married couple, they're just so adorable together. This book is pure serotonin, and while it's not as emotionally deep as Seeking Persephone, it's wonderful and entertaining all the same.
Full Review
CONTENT WARNINGS: There was a scene where Athena was about to be "compromised" for marriage, though it ended up only being a forceful kiss.

This book, as stated in my initial reaction, was lots of fun. I was so happy to see the sweet interactions between Persephone and Adam, whose relationship was established in the first book of the companion series, Seeking Persephone. Their moments were the cutest and always brought a smile to my face. The quips and dialogue and banter in here was lots of fun as well, and I liked seeing a bit more insight into Harry's character. But besides that, it wasn't too deep at all. In fact, with the masterpiece that was Seeking Persephone, this book was kind of a letdown.

I love Harry as a character, and as sweet and innocent as the romance was in this book, I was surprised to find that I didn't care very much for his romantic endeavors. He wasn't very romantic overall, and when he tried it came off kind of creepy. I respect his respect for Athena, but his character was not great in this book. Of course, his comedic relief always made me laugh, though.

I wasn't sold on Athena as a character. The goddess who she was named after is the goddess of wisdom and battle strategy in Greek mythology, but I found her to be quite featherheaded and not the smartest. She was sweet and kind, sure, but not very clever. I just didn't click with her.

And, as much as I hate to say this, Athena and Harry's relationship was sweet, but quite forgettable in the end. I don't hate this book by any any means (Sarah M. Eden is still my favorite romance author), but this just didn't hit the previous exemplary marks that Seeking Persephone and The Kiss of a Stranger hit right on target, for me. I do want to continue with this series, though, I love the Lancaster siblings and their stories! All are quite charming!

Initial Reaction
That was adorable 🥰🥰

But definitely not as great as the first

[Dora · Rating 2 out of 5]

How does one completely fail to write a romance with a character like Harry? Fucking how do you fail at that?
This was the definition of tepid, uninspiring, dull blob of words.

Athena has no character whatsoever, I literally cannot name one thing about her that makes her more than a random faceless background character... Her sister Daphne showed more character in half a page scene then she did in this ehole fuckin book. And I don't understand where did Harry's apparent love for Athena even come from..? Like it's just there... for no reason, no evidence in his interactions with her or anything akin to that...? They are literally the definition of platonic endearing siblings relationship, and even that is a strech considering Athena is a blank canvas. Gosh, I can't even begin to describe just how disappointed I feel, how CHEATED I feel! Harry deserves so much more than this... Fuckin waste of time ugh.

There are only three good things I can say about this story. One, Adam and Harry continuing to bromance the hell out of bromance (I swear, they have more chemistry than Athena could ever even dream of lol). Two, the fact Daphne is Adam's favourite and that they have their library bonding time every day at precisely 4 o'clock in the afternoon (Adam is so soft with her I can't!). Three, the scene where Adam literally confesses to Harry (I almlst teared up!):
“I am not a charity case, Adam,” Harry protested.
“I rather felt like the charity case myself,” Adam said quietly. “I had to pay to have a friend. And I wasn’t ever entirely sure you didn’t stick around for the protection or because you felt like you owed me something. That doesn’t say much for the value of my friendship, does it?”
“It was never like that."
“It still is not like that,” Adam corrected. “On my side, either. You are like family, Harry. I take care of my family—the ones who aren’t imbeciles, anyway." *screams, throws up, dies*

Yeah. that scene alone is worth the additional star. Extra kudos for the whole "Adam almost killed the Crown Prince and continues to call him Georgie in his face" thing. That was hilarious.

I still can't believe the author fucked up Harry's romance like this... Ugh.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh I love Eden's books! It is amazing how they hold me till I finish. She doesn't need lots of action and page turning suspense to get you through her books. They are just a well written love story that doesn't let you go till you know the ending. I really have had a harder time reading Austen novels as I've gotten older, because the language is hard to get threw, but I crave those English romances and I get it with Eden's books. I liked the characters in this novel they are what held me and kept me reading. I hope when all her novel's are re-released we get the whole family's story. I wish they would have been released in order, but I will take what I can get! These books are sweet enough and clean enough I can let my 13 year old read them, but so tension filled that they are so fun for adults too.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun Regency romance!! Athena's indimadating brother-in-law, who happens to be a duke, is in charge of launching her into society. Of course Adam has no interest in doing so, so he forces his best friend, Harry, to weed of the bad ones. Little does Adam know, but Harry is secretly in love with Athena, which makes his job.....not so fun.

The characters were pure fun!! Adam is such a tough, grumpy guy, with a secret tender heart; Persephone is so sweet; Harry is hilarious and fun; Athena is a delight as well. And the potential suitors? Great! I thought the author did a terrific job with the characters and the story!! I can't wait to read more of her works.