What do you think?
Rate this book
Once Upon a Time in Millsbury
He’s just come home to Millsbury. She is eager to outgrow it. But love just might have other plans. Lord Garrett Laurence, viscount and future earl, returns home to Millsbury jaded, world-weary, and decidedly unmarried. There are plenty of young ladies around, but no one catches his eye—no one, perhaps, except his younger sisters’ sweet, vivacious bosom friend. Raised all her life in one small town, Melodia Reese dreams of life beyond Millsbury every single day. When an unexpected chance to visit London comes along, she warms to the thrill and the dangers of Town. Yet she wonders if her heart ever did leave Millsbury at all. A heartfelt story of two neighbors discovering all they’ve ever wanted hidden in plain sight all along. A tale of family, dreams, discovery, forgiveness, and love.
222 pages, Paperback
Published May 10, 2023
34 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 8, 2023
A sweet, clean Regency romance. I enjoyed this book, though I couldn’t help but feel I’d missed a chapter somewhere…both Garrett and Melodia (delightful characters though they are) seemed to do mutual 180s, without explanation. What made a confirmed bachelor suddenly take interest in the family friend who’d always been his sisters’ best friend? What provoked a chaste and dutiful vicar’s daughter to break a pledge to her father? Perhaps more details from the village ‘school’ project would’ve made their blossoming romance more believable; nothing could help me understand that London dalliance. Perhaps a little less clumsiness and a bit more dissatisfaction for Melodia in Millsbury at first? Overall, another delightful HEA from Iris Lim. I am grateful for an advance copy of this book from the author, and was not required to post a review.
December 14, 2023
Lord Garrett Laurence a jaded, unmarried earl in waiting,feels nothing but ennui. He reluctantly returns homto Millsbury where are plenty of marriageable young ladies around who leave him cold except for his younger sisters’ vivacious bff, Melodia Reese.
She is itching to ditch her small,stifling life in Millsbury and dreams of wider horizons every single day. Then she has an unexpected chance to visit London and experience the thrill of it all. But maybe she does not reckon for her heart to remain left behind in tge place she least expected.
An engaging story of two people who find they have unwittingly been in love for a long time. They have their dreams and disappointments and experience acceptance and forgiveness on their road to a HEA.
She is itching to ditch her small,stifling life in Millsbury and dreams of wider horizons every single day. Then she has an unexpected chance to visit London and experience the thrill of it all. But maybe she does not reckon for her heart to remain left behind in tge place she least expected.
An engaging story of two people who find they have unwittingly been in love for a long time. They have their dreams and disappointments and experience acceptance and forgiveness on their road to a HEA.
November 14, 2023
ARC Review:
3/5 ⭐️
Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a quick short read if you are close to reaching your reading goal for the month/year. It’s labeled as a Regency Romance, but I’d personally label it historical fiction. The romance doesn’t show up until about the last 5 chapters or so of the book, and feels very rushed. It’s a friends to lovers trope, so there is minimal angst. There is some angst when, in true regency novel fashion, there is the threat of scandal to the FMCs reputation, but again it’s resolved in barely a page.
The two MCs go from friends to courting to enaged and beyond in less than 5 chapters. Throughout the book, the characters have very basic interactions that hardly lend themselves to romance. A lot of the book is the MMC trying to avoid his mother’s incessant attempts to set him up with a woman she approves of him potentially marrying, and the FMC is around a lot because she’s friends with the MMCs younger twin sisters.
I will also add that while this book is also lableled as Christian based, that aspect is very minimal. While the FMC is the daughter of the local parson, there’s no real mention of the religion or the beliefs themselves. I did like that the book was somewhat fast paced, and if you are looking for a quick clean read with minimal romance this book will fit the bill perfectly. I also would say this is a book that would be suitable for around 11-12 years old who are into historical fiction and/or need a clean romance.
3/5 ⭐️
Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a quick short read if you are close to reaching your reading goal for the month/year. It’s labeled as a Regency Romance, but I’d personally label it historical fiction. The romance doesn’t show up until about the last 5 chapters or so of the book, and feels very rushed. It’s a friends to lovers trope, so there is minimal angst. There is some angst when, in true regency novel fashion, there is the threat of scandal to the FMCs reputation, but again it’s resolved in barely a page.
The two MCs go from friends to courting to enaged and beyond in less than 5 chapters. Throughout the book, the characters have very basic interactions that hardly lend themselves to romance. A lot of the book is the MMC trying to avoid his mother’s incessant attempts to set him up with a woman she approves of him potentially marrying, and the FMC is around a lot because she’s friends with the MMCs younger twin sisters.
I will also add that while this book is also lableled as Christian based, that aspect is very minimal. While the FMC is the daughter of the local parson, there’s no real mention of the religion or the beliefs themselves. I did like that the book was somewhat fast paced, and if you are looking for a quick clean read with minimal romance this book will fit the bill perfectly. I also would say this is a book that would be suitable for around 11-12 years old who are into historical fiction and/or need a clean romance.
October 28, 2023
Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a heartwarming and enjoyable Regency romance that leaves readers with the joy of a happily ever after. The tenderness of the story is its most endearing quality. Coming in a close second is the message that bad decisions and actions have consequences – something we should always remember. Written by Iris Lim, this novel beautifully captures the charm of Regency England, transporting readers to a time of elegance and sweet love.
I would recommend this book to fans of historical romance who appreciate a well-crafted love story. If you're seeking a heartwarming read that immerses you in the world of Regency-era romance, this is a viable choice. Whether you're a dedicated lover of the genre or looking to explore the enchanting world of historical romance for the first time, Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a captivating and satisfying choice that will leave you with a smile and a touch of nostalgia.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book and this is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own. My review focuses on the book's content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
I would recommend this book to fans of historical romance who appreciate a well-crafted love story. If you're seeking a heartwarming read that immerses you in the world of Regency-era romance, this is a viable choice. Whether you're a dedicated lover of the genre or looking to explore the enchanting world of historical romance for the first time, Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a captivating and satisfying choice that will leave you with a smile and a touch of nostalgia.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book and this is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own. My review focuses on the book's content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
December 3, 2023
This is a very sweet story, with little angst aside from a tiny emotional bump experienced by the main female character. Anyone looking for a calm and sweet read, with an endearing ending, this is a good choice.
I am not sure the author did herself justice by placing this in regency era. The one glaring hole in the plot seemed far fetched. As the daughter of their highly esteemed reverend, invited particularly to spend the season in London, there is *no way* chaperonage would have been so lax as to afford her multiple times to sneak away for serious make out sessions. Not to mention, it paints her dear girl friends in such a selfish light, as they get to dance the night away at every ball, leaving the poor parsons daughter to stand by as a lonesome wallflower, primed to be plucked by a young, very immature, rakish wannabe.
I also found it to be slow going. I can't tell if it's because there was little drama, or if it was due to lack of depth in the characters. Probably a little of both. I kept wanting to skip ahead to get to the point of the story. I just could not invest in any of the characters, everyone was sweet and good, but we weren't really exposed to their thoughts or growth development - aside from the 2 MCs. I missed learning about their process of falling for that particular person, especially considering how polar they were, in age, consequence and personality.
One more thing that bugged me. The main female character slips up and confesses to her love, so he knows the score and won't think her perfect. When they come to an understanding, there is a will they-won't they kiss moment. Then the male character says something about waiting to kiss his till she is his wife (after she had confessed to him of her London 'affair'). Talk about kicking a dog when its down- Yikes! I have a feeling how it reads may not be what the author intended, but in that case, Dude rewrite that line! On the other hand it could be a metaphor in regards to christianity and it would definitely go right over my little orthodox Jewish head..
It is prettily written and a lovely gesture from the author as an ode to her real-life love story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am not sure the author did herself justice by placing this in regency era. The one glaring hole in the plot seemed far fetched. As the daughter of their highly esteemed reverend, invited particularly to spend the season in London, there is *no way* chaperonage would have been so lax as to afford her multiple times to sneak away for serious make out sessions. Not to mention, it paints her dear girl friends in such a selfish light, as they get to dance the night away at every ball, leaving the poor parsons daughter to stand by as a lonesome wallflower, primed to be plucked by a young, very immature, rakish wannabe.
I also found it to be slow going. I can't tell if it's because there was little drama, or if it was due to lack of depth in the characters. Probably a little of both. I kept wanting to skip ahead to get to the point of the story. I just could not invest in any of the characters, everyone was sweet and good, but we weren't really exposed to their thoughts or growth development - aside from the 2 MCs. I missed learning about their process of falling for that particular person, especially considering how polar they were, in age, consequence and personality.
One more thing that bugged me. The main female character slips up and confesses to her love, so he knows the score and won't think her perfect. When they come to an understanding, there is a will they-won't they kiss moment. Then the male character says something about waiting to kiss his till she is his wife (after she had confessed to him of her London 'affair'). Talk about kicking a dog when its down- Yikes! I have a feeling how it reads may not be what the author intended, but in that case, Dude rewrite that line! On the other hand it could be a metaphor in regards to christianity and it would definitely go right over my little orthodox Jewish head..
It is prettily written and a lovely gesture from the author as an ode to her real-life love story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 9, 2023
This book was a delightful coming-of-age story for the heroine, Melodia Reese. Best friends with Lord Garrett Laurence's twin sisters, Melodia enjoys her small quaint town of Millsbury, but dreams of leaving for London and experiencing the big city. Lord Garrett Laurence is returning from being away from home and is trying to settle back in while simultaneously thwarting the attempts of his mother and friends with their matchmaking schemes. When Melodia is allowed to accompany Bridget and Bella for a London season, the lessons learned will turn her heart back toward home and a love that awaits her there that she could not have imagined.
This romance developed slowly, but what I feel we get is Melodia discovering who she is and the kind of woman and wife she wants to be. Lord Garrett Laurence is on a journey as well, though more subtly woven than Melodia's. He's trying to discover what it is that would make his heart turn toward marriage and permanence. His conversations with his cousins are full of wit, fun, and introspection. As an introvert myself, I can see that Lord Laurence lives in his head. The side characters in the story add delightful banter and substance to the storyline. I give it a 4/5 stars. I generally prefer the romance to start a little sooner but the story held my interest throughout.
Read this story for:
❤️Sweet Regency romance
❤️Dual POV
❤️Friends to lovers
❤️Slow burn
❤️Age gap
❤️Themes of family, faith, and forgiveness
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This romance developed slowly, but what I feel we get is Melodia discovering who she is and the kind of woman and wife she wants to be. Lord Garrett Laurence is on a journey as well, though more subtly woven than Melodia's. He's trying to discover what it is that would make his heart turn toward marriage and permanence. His conversations with his cousins are full of wit, fun, and introspection. As an introvert myself, I can see that Lord Laurence lives in his head. The side characters in the story add delightful banter and substance to the storyline. I give it a 4/5 stars. I generally prefer the romance to start a little sooner but the story held my interest throughout.
Read this story for:
❤️Sweet Regency romance
❤️Dual POV
❤️Friends to lovers
❤️Slow burn
❤️Age gap
❤️Themes of family, faith, and forgiveness
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 25, 2024
Another beautiful story written by @booksbyirislim ! I loved every detail! I enjoyed reading about Melodia's optimism and kindness, as well as, the growth she goes through as she spreads her wings. Garrett's character grew on me as the story progressed and I came to appreciate his gentle kindness and humor. This story is a clean romance with elements of faith and God, forgiveness and happily ever afters. My favorite quote from the story is: "Be the right person, and the right person will come along."
"And what if the right person never does come along?" he found himself asking. "Ah." The minister sat back, propped his hands on his belly, and smiled. "Then you are already the right person."
Happy reading, friends!
Book description: Lord Garrett Laurence, viscount and future earl, returns home to Millsbury jaded, world-weary, and decidedly unmarried. There are plenty of young ladies around, but no one catches his eye—no one, perhaps, except his younger sisters’ sweet, vivacious bosom friend.
Raised all her life in one small town, Melodia Reese dreams of life beyond Millsbury every single day. When an unexpected chance to visit London comes along, she warms to the thrill and the dangers of Town. Yet she wonders if her heart ever did leave Millsbury at all.
A heartfelt story of two neighbors discovering all they’ve ever wanted hidden in plain sight all along. A tale of family, dreams, discovery, forgiveness, and love.
"And what if the right person never does come along?" he found himself asking. "Ah." The minister sat back, propped his hands on his belly, and smiled. "Then you are already the right person."
Happy reading, friends!
Book description: Lord Garrett Laurence, viscount and future earl, returns home to Millsbury jaded, world-weary, and decidedly unmarried. There are plenty of young ladies around, but no one catches his eye—no one, perhaps, except his younger sisters’ sweet, vivacious bosom friend.
Raised all her life in one small town, Melodia Reese dreams of life beyond Millsbury every single day. When an unexpected chance to visit London comes along, she warms to the thrill and the dangers of Town. Yet she wonders if her heart ever did leave Millsbury at all.
A heartfelt story of two neighbors discovering all they’ve ever wanted hidden in plain sight all along. A tale of family, dreams, discovery, forgiveness, and love.
December 2, 2023
I have previously read Ms Lim's Pride and Prejudice variations, Words Unspoken and Fathers Know Best. I especially enjoyed reading the former as it was such a charming and emotion eliciting tale of love. Having enjoyed her writing in those books, I was willing to try reading a non-Jane Austen variation Regency story for the first time.
Ms Lim's lovely writing style is shown again in Once Upon a Time in Millsbury. I was immediately transported to the town of Millsbury and immersed in the citizens' daily lives. The descriptions of the characters vividly paint who they are and the way they fit into the small community. After being such an integral part of this community, I easily empathized with the young heroine's confusion when transplanted into the foreign setting and daunting society of London. Although I cringed as Melodia made choices that were not aligned with her nature, I excused them due to her youth and innocence.
I enjoyed the dialogue and interaction between the Garrett and Melodia. However, I wish that their relationship , as well as their individual thoughts were fleshed out more after they came to realize their mutual affection.
While there was some angst, it was resolved in a way that empowered the heroine. It was a pleasure to read this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ms Lim's lovely writing style is shown again in Once Upon a Time in Millsbury. I was immediately transported to the town of Millsbury and immersed in the citizens' daily lives. The descriptions of the characters vividly paint who they are and the way they fit into the small community. After being such an integral part of this community, I easily empathized with the young heroine's confusion when transplanted into the foreign setting and daunting society of London. Although I cringed as Melodia made choices that were not aligned with her nature, I excused them due to her youth and innocence.
I enjoyed the dialogue and interaction between the Garrett and Melodia. However, I wish that their relationship , as well as their individual thoughts were fleshed out more after they came to realize their mutual affection.
While there was some angst, it was resolved in a way that empowered the heroine. It was a pleasure to read this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2023
This was an overall good book. I read a lot of Regency novels, and for me, this book didn't stand out enough from other similar books to make it a 5-star book.
While the plot of the story makes it clear early on where the story's going to go when it comes to romance, I never really felt like our two main characters liked each other until suddenly they really liked each other. I would have preferred more hints of these feelings earlier on. I had a hard time buying that they really felt anything for each other. Along with that, while I did like both characters, I'm not sure that I like them together. I wanted a better feel for why they were a good match for each other. Still, this was a fun, fairly quick read.
This book is clean. There's no swearing, violence, or sexual content. The most scandalous thing is that two of the characters engage in some kissing and touching, which would have been deemed improper during this time period.
I got an ARC for free from BookSirens, and I voluntarily wrote a review.
While the plot of the story makes it clear early on where the story's going to go when it comes to romance, I never really felt like our two main characters liked each other until suddenly they really liked each other. I would have preferred more hints of these feelings earlier on. I had a hard time buying that they really felt anything for each other. Along with that, while I did like both characters, I'm not sure that I like them together. I wanted a better feel for why they were a good match for each other. Still, this was a fun, fairly quick read.
This book is clean. There's no swearing, violence, or sexual content. The most scandalous thing is that two of the characters engage in some kissing and touching, which would have been deemed improper during this time period.
I got an ARC for free from BookSirens, and I voluntarily wrote a review.
December 15, 2023
This is a sweet, charming, and delightful book. It’s beautifully written and exquisitely paced. It’s a tale of boundaries crossed but not broken.
Melodia Reese, a preacher’s daughter, is the best friend of Lord Garrett Laurence’s twin sisters. She’s always at his house. It’s just the way things are. But she’s just a child to him, or is she?
Lord Laurence is thirty years old, and he has no intention of taking a wife. His mother has other ideas. She has no qualms about throwing him into the line of eligible young women. Garrett isn’t impressed with any of them.
This book is a story of true love coming from unexpected places, and about rogues who take advantage and then act the injured party.
Truly a lovely, enjoyable read. I highly recommend it.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author through Book Sirens. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Melodia Reese, a preacher’s daughter, is the best friend of Lord Garrett Laurence’s twin sisters. She’s always at his house. It’s just the way things are. But she’s just a child to him, or is she?
Lord Laurence is thirty years old, and he has no intention of taking a wife. His mother has other ideas. She has no qualms about throwing him into the line of eligible young women. Garrett isn’t impressed with any of them.
This book is a story of true love coming from unexpected places, and about rogues who take advantage and then act the injured party.
Truly a lovely, enjoyable read. I highly recommend it.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author through Book Sirens. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
February 11, 2024
I've read one other book by this author and very much enjoyed it, so I was excited for the opportunity to read this, and I was not disappointed. It is a clean and sweet Regency romance that left me with a nice warm and fuzzy feeling after I was done. Garrett is returning home to Millsbury after being away for a while, unwed and with no real plans to change his status. That is until he sees his younger sisters' best friend Melodia again. Something about her catches his eye and turns his heart toward a possibility of marriage. But Melodia longs to leave Millsbury and gets the opportunity to experience all that London has to offer. But despite all its thrills, her heart seems to be left behind in Millsbury, right where Garrett remains.
This was a heartwarming story of two friends finding themselves and eventually finding their way to each other. A short but lovely story with endearing characters that I am glad to have had the opportunity to read. My thanks to BookSirens for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest and voluntary review
This was a heartwarming story of two friends finding themselves and eventually finding their way to each other. A short but lovely story with endearing characters that I am glad to have had the opportunity to read. My thanks to BookSirens for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest and voluntary review
December 13, 2023
I'm a fan of Iris's P&P fanfics. This is the first original story of her that I had read and it won't be the last. And knowing that it's inspired in her own story mades it extra special.
This is a sweet clean regency romance with a HEA.
Garrett is back home, and fervently trying to avoid the plans of his matchmaking mother. Melodia dreams of going away from home and takes the opportunity when Garret's sisters (and her dear friends) invites her to London for the season. Her bad experience there made her reflect and appreciate what she already had at home. And meanwhile Garrett see what he had close by.
-Clean romance
-Dual POV
-Sister's best friend.
-Friends to lovers
-Slowburn
-HEA
It was slow paced at first and a bit rushed at the end, but very enjoyable. I just wish I could have read more of the development of their relationship.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a sweet clean regency romance with a HEA.
Garrett is back home, and fervently trying to avoid the plans of his matchmaking mother. Melodia dreams of going away from home and takes the opportunity when Garret's sisters (and her dear friends) invites her to London for the season. Her bad experience there made her reflect and appreciate what she already had at home. And meanwhile Garrett see what he had close by.
-Clean romance
-Dual POV
-Sister's best friend.
-Friends to lovers
-Slowburn
-HEA
It was slow paced at first and a bit rushed at the end, but very enjoyable. I just wish I could have read more of the development of their relationship.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 22, 2023
I picked up this book because it looked sweet and cute, and it was that. My main concern with historical fiction is usually the corset complaints, and those were refreshingly absent. (If there had been any mention of tightlacing I would've quit the book. This is the Regency period, specifically noted for how loose their stays are BECAUSE the Regency silloeutte doesn't emphasize the waist)
However, our male lead spends the entire book complaining about having to get married, which does grate on one's nerves. He's a wealthy landowner, and doesn't hold any romantic aspirations, he's not dreaming of true love, he just doesn't want to do it? This is very frustrating because the only thing this marriage would require of him is children, and he doesn't even have to give birth.
Beyond that, very sweet.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
However, our male lead spends the entire book complaining about having to get married, which does grate on one's nerves. He's a wealthy landowner, and doesn't hold any romantic aspirations, he's not dreaming of true love, he just doesn't want to do it? This is very frustrating because the only thing this marriage would require of him is children, and he doesn't even have to give birth.
Beyond that, very sweet.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 2, 2023
Viscount Garrett came home from his worldly travels without a future bride or fiancee. His mother was not happy with him not finding a women to start his family life with. He is to become the Earl when it is time to replace his father. His mother throughout the story was desperately playing matchmaker and he was as easily slipping away and onto his own plans.
Melodia, a best friend to his youngest sister caught his eye. She wanted to travel and in leaving the short time to London fell for a playboy of that time, Shane Limbergh. He came to find her and learn the truth about her engagement. Melodia had already told Garrett about her indiscretion with Shane before he told her of his desire to marry her. She was upfront and honest with him and he still loved her and wanted to marry her.
I received this as an ARC and am giving this review freely and voluntarily.
Melodia, a best friend to his youngest sister caught his eye. She wanted to travel and in leaving the short time to London fell for a playboy of that time, Shane Limbergh. He came to find her and learn the truth about her engagement. Melodia had already told Garrett about her indiscretion with Shane before he told her of his desire to marry her. She was upfront and honest with him and he still loved her and wanted to marry her.
I received this as an ARC and am giving this review freely and voluntarily.
December 6, 2023
Loved this story especially when the reader is despairing over the main female character’s behaviour when she travels to another location and is hoping that it will all be well… which it does in the end!
This historical romance was cheery, yet serious and alluded to spiritual aspects lightly… would’ve been better if there had been more though the moral standards were highlighted much in this story.
Loved Melodia and her family while enjoying Garrett’s love of books and need for quietness. Lovely story but felt the main romance was a bit late in the book. This reader really did not like Shane but that’s a good sign for the author!
Received this advanced review copy for free through BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This historical romance was cheery, yet serious and alluded to spiritual aspects lightly… would’ve been better if there had been more though the moral standards were highlighted much in this story.
Loved Melodia and her family while enjoying Garrett’s love of books and need for quietness. Lovely story but felt the main romance was a bit late in the book. This reader really did not like Shane but that’s a good sign for the author!
Received this advanced review copy for free through BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2023
Viscount Garett Laurence is determined to escape his mother's efforts to make a match for him with a suitable young lady and Melodia Reese is the local vicar’s daughter, with a sweet, kind nature. She also happens to be the best friend of Garrett’s twin younger sisters.
The story focuses quite a bit on Garrett’s whingeing at having to marry and start a family until he turns around and realises that Melodia is the perfect woman for him. I would have liked if Iris Lim had expounded a little more on their love story before they had their HEA.
A sweet romance that was quick to read. I received with thanks, an ARC from the author and BookSirens and submit my honest opinion.
The story focuses quite a bit on Garrett’s whingeing at having to marry and start a family until he turns around and realises that Melodia is the perfect woman for him. I would have liked if Iris Lim had expounded a little more on their love story before they had their HEA.
A sweet romance that was quick to read. I received with thanks, an ARC from the author and BookSirens and submit my honest opinion.
December 10, 2023
What a beautiful story! The fact that the author used her own love story as inspiration makes it even more special. This friends to lovers story is appropriate for all ages and I would strongly recommend it for Christian teens.
Melodia, the rector's daughter, had her time in London. She returned a changed person. She was able to more fully appreciate what she could have with Garrett. When Garrett began to declare his intentions, his heartfelt words made me tear up. From that point on, I could not stop reading because I just had to get to the happy ending. I was not disappointed!
I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
Melodia, the rector's daughter, had her time in London. She returned a changed person. She was able to more fully appreciate what she could have with Garrett. When Garrett began to declare his intentions, his heartfelt words made me tear up. From that point on, I could not stop reading because I just had to get to the happy ending. I was not disappointed!
I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
December 12, 2023
What happens when the mother of the man wants him to marry and produce an heir? She "throws" different ladies at him to try and encourage him into matrimony. But he realizes there is one lady he would like to marry. Will she accept him?
The female is a family friend; she spends time with his twin sisters. She is the rector's daughter. She wants adventure. Will she find what she wants before it is too late.
The two main characters have known each other for years. There will be a sweet happily ever after.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The female is a family friend; she spends time with his twin sisters. She is the rector's daughter. She wants adventure. Will she find what she wants before it is too late.
The two main characters have known each other for years. There will be a sweet happily ever after.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 10, 2023
This was a lovely read, just a bit loose on the Regency coded. It would work great in an early 1900's setting, I think. Overall a cute, fluffy and a short read.
January 17, 2024
Once Upon a Time in Millsbury by Iris Lim is a charming, witty and moving book. The autobiographical details (the story is based on how to author met her husband) made it even more moving to me. I can't remember the last time I cried in a book! Melodia and Garrett are such wonderful and complex characters and they touched me deeply. Melodia is sweet and vivacious and the introvert Garrett is a good and an honorable man. The book is a slow burn and it takes Melodia and Garrett some time to realize that they are in love with each other.
I receieved an ARC and voluntarily leave a review.
I receieved an ARC and voluntarily leave a review.
October 20, 2023
Coming of age in the small town of Milllsbury doesn’t allow escape from domineering mothers plotting and pressuring their children into marrying. Garrett as the heir to an Earldom insists on making his own choice despite his mother’s machinations and the flirty eyes from all the eligible gentlewomen looking his way. Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a sweet and clean romance from another time. I thank the author for an advance review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
October 21, 2023
This was such a nice book to read. The author did such a great job of transporting me to another time and place. The story flowed so nicely. Oh to live in the times of balls, courting and chaperoning! It was such a pleasant journey. If your looking for a cozy historical romantic story to cuddle up under a warm blanket and a glass of wine this is the one you want to settle with.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 12, 2023
Both a romance and a look in to the life entertwined of the aristocracy, church and tow. As a mother continues to marry off her son,. She starts at the top of the gentry ladder and gets pushing, only to have him push back. Meanwhile her 2 daughter's are twins and close in age with the rector's daughter. Their life's are meshed and almost family. I won't spoil the tale for you, but it is an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2023
The title was confusing starting with 'once upon a time'.I thought it was some fantasy story and took time to start reading .But when I started reading I could not stop until I completed it.Enjoyed reading each and every page .The story was simple sweet and endearing to see how a simple rector girl was temporarily affected by the glamour of London but realised the mistake before it was too late.Can be read by people of all ages.
November 13, 2023
Once Upon a Time in Millsbury is a sweet Regency Romance by Iris Lim. This is a wonderful romance with outstanding characters. I think that the author wrote a complete story and not just bam… love. Iris Lim unfolded the romance from beginning to the end perfectly. I found thus story to be a perfectly written romance. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 26, 2023
This is a sweet friend to lovers HEA. I enjoyed getting to know both characters individually as well as other supporting roles. I hope there is another book with another sweet story. I’d love to read the sisters’ stories. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
December 12, 2023
Melodia Reese dreams of life beyond Millsbury. When she is finally given a chance to travel to London with her best friends (twins) , she makes a promise to her father that there would be no romantic entanglements. Having lived a pure and Godly life, she assures her father (the vicar) that she's merely interested in observing life beyond their small town.
Her neighbor and best friends' brother, Lord Garrett Laurence, viscount and future earl, returns home to Millsbury determined to remain unmarried (much to his mother's disappointment). Once home, he battles the pressures of finding a wife, having an heir as well as the responsibility of holding his title.
Melodia and Garrett seemingly have nothing in common beyond their familial friendship, until one day feelings change. Can these two overcome secrets, propriety, and the overwhelming attempts of Garrett's mother to see him married?
Overall, I enjoyed this clean historical romance, except that the constant manipulative attempts of Garrett's mother became tiring. There were a few "gaps" of information in the story (such as Garrett's broken engagement). Additionally, courting and marriage seem to happen in a very quick and rushed manner. I would have preferred more details.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
Her neighbor and best friends' brother, Lord Garrett Laurence, viscount and future earl, returns home to Millsbury determined to remain unmarried (much to his mother's disappointment). Once home, he battles the pressures of finding a wife, having an heir as well as the responsibility of holding his title.
Melodia and Garrett seemingly have nothing in common beyond their familial friendship, until one day feelings change. Can these two overcome secrets, propriety, and the overwhelming attempts of Garrett's mother to see him married?
Overall, I enjoyed this clean historical romance, except that the constant manipulative attempts of Garrett's mother became tiring. There were a few "gaps" of information in the story (such as Garrett's broken engagement). Additionally, courting and marriage seem to happen in a very quick and rushed manner. I would have preferred more details.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
December 11, 2023
This story was a nice and easy read. It will do nicely if you want some holiday reading. What did remove a star for me was some actions from our main caracter. I would not believed Melodia to act in the way she did. And I find it very unlikely nobody noticed! I liked the Happy Ending!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review volantarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review volantarily.
December 14, 2023
Melodic Reese never dreamed that she’d fall for someone so close to her and from Millsbury, when all she’s ever wanted was to leave, but on an encounter with her friend’s brother no less…. Lord Garret is taken with the lovely Melodia Lovely romantic story
I read a free copy from booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
I read a free copy from booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
December 24, 2023
What a sweet, clean story! I really enjoyed the way the main characters dealt with the challenges that they encountered and reacted to each other. They both learned from their mistakes and matured as the story went on. Sometimes the descriptions and conversations went on a bit long, but they were also necessary to the plot. I would recommend this book to a friend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews