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The Gents #3
Fleur de Lis
"Full of romance, wit, endearing characters, and a little bit of extra Sarah Eden magic." - Goodreads review
"This book is perfection!" - Amazon review
Thirteen years ago, Henri Fortier left a tumultuous life in France to begin anew in England. His adopted country has become home, and his dearest friends, the Gents, are family. Unfortunately, ties to the past still plague him, and he’s forced to live in near destitution. Henri secretly publishes his poetry to supplement his meager income, but it is both insufficient and risky. A house party with the Gents promises a welcome distraction until he realizes that one of the guests is none other than Nicolette Beaulieu, the woman who stole—and broke—his heart years ago.
Nicolette has traveled to England for reasons far more pressing than a house party. As part of the Marquis de Lafayette’s secret network, she has been tasked with preparing for revolution. Though she has a pristine track record with the organization, her romantic history is far from perfect. This is particularly evident when she is reunited with Henri, the man who once declared his love for her. Drawn together through adventures the Gents have devised, the couple begins to tiptoe toward more tender feelings. But as sinister threats loom from all quarters, it may be too late for Henri and Nicolette’s second chance at love.
"This book is perfection!" - Amazon review
Thirteen years ago, Henri Fortier left a tumultuous life in France to begin anew in England. His adopted country has become home, and his dearest friends, the Gents, are family. Unfortunately, ties to the past still plague him, and he’s forced to live in near destitution. Henri secretly publishes his poetry to supplement his meager income, but it is both insufficient and risky. A house party with the Gents promises a welcome distraction until he realizes that one of the guests is none other than Nicolette Beaulieu, the woman who stole—and broke—his heart years ago.
Nicolette has traveled to England for reasons far more pressing than a house party. As part of the Marquis de Lafayette’s secret network, she has been tasked with preparing for revolution. Though she has a pristine track record with the organization, her romantic history is far from perfect. This is particularly evident when she is reunited with Henri, the man who once declared his love for her. Drawn together through adventures the Gents have devised, the couple begins to tiptoe toward more tender feelings. But as sinister threats loom from all quarters, it may be too late for Henri and Nicolette’s second chance at love.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
June 8, 2023
What a book, y'all.
Henri has been one of my favorite characters in the Gents series since the beginning, so I was super excited when this book was announced. And let me just tell you - it did not disappoint. Fleur-de-Lis is a wonderful addition to the series.
There are so many things I loved about this book - the touch of intrigue and suspense given Nicolette's work in helping to prepare for the French Revolution, Henri's poetry, the camaraderie of the Gents and the larks they come up with (cue the exclamations of "Digby, you traitorous coward!" 😂), the villains who deserve a kick to the shins, and most importantly, the sweetest second chance romance that deserves all the heart eyes. With all of that put together there's no way you can go wrong.
Many thanks to the author for the earlier copy; all thoughts are my own :)
Henri has been one of my favorite characters in the Gents series since the beginning, so I was super excited when this book was announced. And let me just tell you - it did not disappoint. Fleur-de-Lis is a wonderful addition to the series.
There are so many things I loved about this book - the touch of intrigue and suspense given Nicolette's work in helping to prepare for the French Revolution, Henri's poetry, the camaraderie of the Gents and the larks they come up with (cue the exclamations of "Digby, you traitorous coward!" 😂), the villains who deserve a kick to the shins, and most importantly, the sweetest second chance romance that deserves all the heart eyes. With all of that put together there's no way you can go wrong.
Many thanks to the author for the earlier copy; all thoughts are my own :)
June 23, 2023
I’ve said it once, and I will keep saying it, Sarah Eden truly is a gifted author. I enjoy every book she writes and this book is another treat. Henri, being my favorite of the The Gents, I was thrilled for his story. Henri and Nicolette are wonderful. I loved the circumstances that brought them together. Nicolette’s story especially was wonderfully entertaining and mysterious.
I received an ebook from the author. All views and opinions are my own.
I received an ebook from the author. All views and opinions are my own.
June 24, 2023
There are reasons why Sarah M. Eden has quickly become an absolute favorite author of mine since discovering the treasure that her books are in 2023. One is the humor in her stories that make me laugh every time. Two are the Lancasters/Jonquils and the universe Sarah has created with these characters and their friends. I love this literary world she has created! This latest installment was a lovely story where we get to know Henri better and see Lucas, Julia and all their friends and a few not so friends at a house party where secrets abound. I could not put this one down! Henri is a great character and it was so fun to see all the Gents again. Great read!
June 26, 2023
This book was perfection! Really, I mean it. I love this author and her books, and I truly love this series. I was so looking forward to Henri's story. He's been one of my favorite "Gents" for a while. This second chance romance bloomed in such a beautiful and sweet way. The chemistry was strong between Henri and Nicolette. Reading their romance does crazy things to your heart.
I also have to say how much it feels like coming home when all of The Gents gather. Sarah Eden has created such distinct and unique characters that you grow to love them easily. They are as close or closer than a family. They help each other through life's trials and stand up for each other. Here is a quote from the book that really explains this fun group of men and women,
{He nodded, “The Gents are the very best sort of people. They try very hard to be fair-minded. And they are deeply loyal. And they have good hearts.”}
I also love how Lady Jonquil called The Gents "An Endless Puzzle."
Here is where I say PLEASE read the previous books before this one. Yes, it could be enjoyed as a stand-alone but why do that to yourself? The experience is more rich and warm when you know the characters and a little about their pasts.
Things I loved in Fleur de Lis: Henri coming into his own by believing in and standing up for himself and others, Nicolette showing courage with the help of her new friends, and Aldric getting something he so rightly deserved.
I love this author's eloquent writing. There is something that Henri remembers their friend Stanley once said to him about forgiving ourselves. The powerful words hit me strongly and I'm grateful for Sarah Eden sharing these words at just the right moment for me to hear.
“We too often wrongly think forgiveness looks like absolution,” Stanley had once said. “But I think forgiveness is becoming the person the one who hurt us would have prevented us from being. Forgiveness is never about the one who inflicted the pain but rather is the gift we give ourselves: permission not to be the proof of their hateful prophecies.”
Fleur de Lis is a solid 5-star read for me.
I also have to say how much it feels like coming home when all of The Gents gather. Sarah Eden has created such distinct and unique characters that you grow to love them easily. They are as close or closer than a family. They help each other through life's trials and stand up for each other. Here is a quote from the book that really explains this fun group of men and women,
{He nodded, “The Gents are the very best sort of people. They try very hard to be fair-minded. And they are deeply loyal. And they have good hearts.”}
I also love how Lady Jonquil called The Gents "An Endless Puzzle."
Here is where I say PLEASE read the previous books before this one. Yes, it could be enjoyed as a stand-alone but why do that to yourself? The experience is more rich and warm when you know the characters and a little about their pasts.
Things I loved in Fleur de Lis: Henri coming into his own by believing in and standing up for himself and others, Nicolette showing courage with the help of her new friends, and Aldric getting something he so rightly deserved.
I love this author's eloquent writing. There is something that Henri remembers their friend Stanley once said to him about forgiving ourselves. The powerful words hit me strongly and I'm grateful for Sarah Eden sharing these words at just the right moment for me to hear.
“We too often wrongly think forgiveness looks like absolution,” Stanley had once said. “But I think forgiveness is becoming the person the one who hurt us would have prevented us from being. Forgiveness is never about the one who inflicted the pain but rather is the gift we give ourselves: permission not to be the proof of their hateful prophecies.”
Fleur de Lis is a solid 5-star read for me.
January 19, 2025
Henri Fortier has come to Cambridge to escape his horrible father and study English poetry. Yet it seems Henri left one bully behind in France only to encounter more in England. He is too French, too interested in poetry, too shabby and not British enough to please some fellow. Lucky for Henri, Stanley Cummings saw Henri as someone worth knowing and in Stanley and his friends, Henri has found a family for life. Now The Gents have gathered together for their annual visit and to welcome Henri's sister, without the late Stanley, at the home of the Duke of Hartley. Lord Aldric's father has sent his eldest son, Lord Mowbary, to host the house party which will now include not just Henri's sister but the woman who broke his heart three years ago! Nicolette Beaulieu is traveling to England with her brother and sister-in-law. She's eager to see her dear friend Céleste but has a more important something on her mind. Nicolette is part of a French spy ring and has been tasked by the Marquis de Lafayette (yes THAT Marquis de Lafayette, a little older and wiser) to find sympathetic French nationals in Britain to help smuggle Frenchmen and women into their homes should the need arise. A house on the coast would do nicely but there is only one French family in the area and Nicolette doesn't know them yet. She has little memory of meeting Henri and no idea of his feelings for her. When she discovers her family's matchmaking plans for her and the same plans for Céleste, Nicolette decides to pretend an attachment to Henri for the sake of thwarting her family. What Henri feels for Nicolette is very real and as she gets to know him better, she might feel the same but what can come of it? He has no money, no home and is a failure of a poet. When a nasty villain from Nicolette's past returns and threatens all Nicolette holds dear, she has to decide which is more important - her independence or wealth and society? Can true love find a way? The Gents and ladies to the rescue!
Gosh I just love this world Sarah M. Eden has created. Her stories are always heartwarming and funny too. This is not a standalone novel. You need to read The Jonquils first, some of the Lancasters or at least one story with Adam, Duke of Kielder and then The Gents series in order. I was eager to read Henri's story and find out more about his future wife but this one started off really slow. There was too much inside Henri's head as he brooded. Then it picked up in the middle when the villain arrived. I kept waiting for that and it took too long. The conclusion was not satisfactory and I want to know more about what happens to the villain and the secondary characters. I did like the plot about being seen. That's a common theme in period romances and made me sad because I've never experienced that in real life. The romance ends up very sweet as usual.
His father was abusive and didn't think Henri was worthwhile. As a younger son, Henri was superfluous to begin with but when Henri developed into a kind, caring individual with interest in poetry- ENGLISH poetry- his father decided Henri was not worthy of being his son. Henri's father bullied Henri so much that Henri has a lack of self-confidence and doesn't feel worthy of love. Yet he has his friends- his chosen family and they back him 1000%! They love him as he is. He's struggling to finish one last poem he needs to publish a second volume of poetry which will give him some much needed money but for some reason, he doesn't feel he can tell his friends. What? That doesn't make sense. They might tease just because that's how they express themselves but they wouldn't be mean about it. I think Stanley would come back and haunt them if they were! Heck Julia would give them all hell for it!
Henri is sensitive and caring. He loves his sister Céleste more than anyone else in the world (except Nicolette) and he is excited to get to know his little niece now. He's good with children -with Lucas Jonquil as a best friend how could he not be? and grows close with the children in the nursery. Henri's nickname "The Archbishop" comes from his inability to lie and his more somber demeanor yet he is not above playing games with The Gents (and ladies) and goofing off with his pals. He's just trying to recover from his father's abuse but now his brother has arrived and that trigger's all the old trauma Henri experienced. Henri's brother is shaping up to be much like his father. Henri's inheritance is being withheld as punishment for not dancing to his elders' tune and coming home to stay. Henri is happy in England, happier than he was in France but he needs money to live on. What to do?
Nicolette is a wonderful heroine. She's incredibly intelligent, observant and kind. Like Henri, she's good with the children in the nursery. Three years ago Nicolette was engaged and then her fiancé ran off and disappeared. She realizes now she would have been miserable with Pierre Léandre. He was self-serving and dismissive of her feelings and desires. He would have made her miserable. Now Nicolette doubts her judgement and can't tell if someone is of good character. She's suspicious of Henri at first and can't bring herself to admit she likes him until she can prove he's worthy of her interest.
She's been hiding herself behind a mask, the mask Parisians wear in Society. Nicolette was brought up to believe money and prestige were everything and she needed to maintain an impeccable reputation to marry well and take her place in Society. As she gets to know Henri and his friends, she sees that British gentlemen and ladies can let their hair down and have fun. She learns to be less of an ice princess and let in the warmth and kindness of her new friends. Henri sees Nicolette for who she truly is and includes her in the fun because he knows deep down inside, she's just as lost and lonely as he is. Nicolette and Julia are two of a kind and of course they quickly become friends. Nicolette likes Violet as well although Violet is less easy to get to know. I really liked Nicolette and admired her very much. I liked her growing relationship with Henri but it took too long to get to the point. Nicolette's brother Sébastien is kinder than Henri's brother but seems to have the same goals as Lord Mowbary.
Céleste Fortier, Nicolette's best friend and Henri's sister, is another strong female character who deserves her own story. She's very smart and sometimes sassy. She's a loving sister but wants to be treated like an adult and not a child. Céleste loves her brother but worries he doesn't love HER as much because he seldom comes to France. When she discovers the reason why, she's living. I cheered her on thinking "Go Céleste!" She's tough and will stand her ground to protect her brother and his interests.
Our Julia, a lady gent, Lucas Jonquil's beloved wife, is one of a kind. It's fun to watch Mater as a young woman very much in love with her husband. They're such a cute couple, always touching, kissing and spending time together. They're very devoted parents to baby Philip as well. Flip is just like his father with a heaping dose of Digby! Julia is also insanely smart and still enjoys learning complicated things I don't understand.
Um for some reason, the Marquis de Lafayette, is a minor character in this story. This guy. The foppish hero of the American Revolution!
Our foppish hero was actually a lot smarter and more progressive than Colonial Williamsburg portrays him. He doesn't come across as the brightest and best mind France had to offer but he truly believed in the cause of liberty and was sincere in wanting to help. Now, with our Revolution over, he's moved on to helping his fellow Frenchmen and fears a new Revolution will soon happen. While he doesn't predict the Rein of Terror, he does predict there will be a need for people to flee warfare and strife and need to do it in secret. Therefore, he's set up a spy ring that includes Nicolette, to try to stay ahead of the situation. Huh. Who knew? He didn't mention THAT when I met him over the summer during the Lafayette 200 tour and there isn't anything on the official websites but he also didn't bring up his American spy ring so maybe it was all a secret and only come out long after his death.
M. and Mme Beaumont, neighbors of the Duke of Hartley's minor country seat where the story takes place, seem like a nice couple. She's Parisian and misses home. Mme. Beaumont is eager to meet Nicolette and her family to discuss life in Paris and all the hot gossip. Yet she seems devoted to her French-English husband and new home. They become good friends to the young ladies who need older, more settled female friends.
The Gents are always so much fun. Yet it's sad to read Stanley living and speaking. I can't remember but this might be his first living on page appearance. Stanley was very wise and kind. I think it must run in the Cummings family. Julia as Mater did say Charlie was just like her brother. (Charlie is like Julia and Lucas.) Stanley was a very good friend and he saw Henri for who he really is and befriended Henri without looking back. Stanley kept them all going with his happy go lucky nature and words of advice. Lucas may have ADHD but he can focus when it comes to his family and friends. He's goofy, loves children and longs for a family to replace the siblings he lost in childhood. Lucas dreams of adventures with Philip, who is a baby still, around a year old. (Layton is on the way and arrives at the end of the book). I cried thinking of the adventures he never got to have with his sons, especially Charlie who is so much like Stanley. Lord Aldric is brooding too. He has an abusive father who thinks the sun rises and sets on his heir and Aldric is a lowly worm. Aldric wants to avoid an arranged marriage, one Niles is facing very soon, so he absents himself from the narrative to avoid his family. I think otherwise, he and Henri's sister would get along very well and make a nice couple.
We get to know Digby a little better. He's hiding behind a mask of lightheartedness and fashion but it sounds like he, too, comes from an abusive household with a cruel father. We also get a closer look at Niles. Puppy is grown up now and facing an arranged marriage he doesn't want. He's kind of quiet and introspective at times.
Roderick, the little lord who will one day be Duke of Hartley (mentioned in The Jonquils series), is a sweet, lonely little boy. He longs for attention from adults as he grows and is no longer a baby. He's learning French, the language of his grandmother, from his Uncle Aldric, the only one who pays any attention to him. I feel sorry for the lad. His father, Lord Mowbary, is arrogant and rude. He's dismissive of anyone he thinks beneath him and his son has no place in his adult world. Nor do games or anything fun his younger brother wants to do. Lord Mowbary willingly inflicts his father's cruelty onto Lord Aldric and enjoys friendships only in relation to what others can do for him. He thinks marriage between his little brother and a Frenchwoman would be just the thing to make him fashionable and popular. UGH.
This wasn't my favorite of the Gents series so far but I am eager to see what happens next. Yet I also dread it because I do know what happens to Lucas and his family.
Gosh I just love this world Sarah M. Eden has created. Her stories are always heartwarming and funny too. This is not a standalone novel. You need to read The Jonquils first, some of the Lancasters or at least one story with Adam, Duke of Kielder and then The Gents series in order. I was eager to read Henri's story and find out more about his future wife but this one started off really slow. There was too much inside Henri's head as he brooded. Then it picked up in the middle when the villain arrived. I kept waiting for that and it took too long. The conclusion was not satisfactory and I want to know more about what happens to the villain and the secondary characters. I did like the plot about being seen. That's a common theme in period romances and made me sad because I've never experienced that in real life. The romance ends up very sweet as usual.
His father was abusive and didn't think Henri was worthwhile. As a younger son, Henri was superfluous to begin with but when Henri developed into a kind, caring individual with interest in poetry- ENGLISH poetry- his father decided Henri was not worthy of being his son. Henri's father bullied Henri so much that Henri has a lack of self-confidence and doesn't feel worthy of love. Yet he has his friends- his chosen family and they back him 1000%! They love him as he is. He's struggling to finish one last poem he needs to publish a second volume of poetry which will give him some much needed money but for some reason, he doesn't feel he can tell his friends. What? That doesn't make sense. They might tease just because that's how they express themselves but they wouldn't be mean about it. I think Stanley would come back and haunt them if they were! Heck Julia would give them all hell for it!
Henri is sensitive and caring. He loves his sister Céleste more than anyone else in the world (except Nicolette) and he is excited to get to know his little niece now. He's good with children -with Lucas Jonquil as a best friend how could he not be? and grows close with the children in the nursery. Henri's nickname "The Archbishop" comes from his inability to lie and his more somber demeanor yet he is not above playing games with The Gents (and ladies) and goofing off with his pals. He's just trying to recover from his father's abuse but now his brother has arrived and that trigger's all the old trauma Henri experienced. Henri's brother is shaping up to be much like his father. Henri's inheritance is being withheld as punishment for not dancing to his elders' tune and coming home to stay. Henri is happy in England, happier than he was in France but he needs money to live on. What to do?
Nicolette is a wonderful heroine. She's incredibly intelligent, observant and kind. Like Henri, she's good with the children in the nursery. Three years ago Nicolette was engaged and then her fiancé ran off and disappeared. She realizes now she would have been miserable with Pierre Léandre. He was self-serving and dismissive of her feelings and desires. He would have made her miserable. Now Nicolette doubts her judgement and can't tell if someone is of good character. She's suspicious of Henri at first and can't bring herself to admit she likes him until she can prove he's worthy of her interest.
She's been hiding herself behind a mask, the mask Parisians wear in Society. Nicolette was brought up to believe money and prestige were everything and she needed to maintain an impeccable reputation to marry well and take her place in Society. As she gets to know Henri and his friends, she sees that British gentlemen and ladies can let their hair down and have fun. She learns to be less of an ice princess and let in the warmth and kindness of her new friends. Henri sees Nicolette for who she truly is and includes her in the fun because he knows deep down inside, she's just as lost and lonely as he is. Nicolette and Julia are two of a kind and of course they quickly become friends. Nicolette likes Violet as well although Violet is less easy to get to know. I really liked Nicolette and admired her very much. I liked her growing relationship with Henri but it took too long to get to the point. Nicolette's brother Sébastien is kinder than Henri's brother but seems to have the same goals as Lord Mowbary.
Céleste Fortier, Nicolette's best friend and Henri's sister, is another strong female character who deserves her own story. She's very smart and sometimes sassy. She's a loving sister but wants to be treated like an adult and not a child. Céleste loves her brother but worries he doesn't love HER as much because he seldom comes to France. When she discovers the reason why, she's living. I cheered her on thinking "Go Céleste!" She's tough and will stand her ground to protect her brother and his interests.
Our Julia, a lady gent, Lucas Jonquil's beloved wife, is one of a kind. It's fun to watch Mater as a young woman very much in love with her husband. They're such a cute couple, always touching, kissing and spending time together. They're very devoted parents to baby Philip as well. Flip is just like his father with a heaping dose of Digby! Julia is also insanely smart and still enjoys learning complicated things I don't understand.
Um for some reason, the Marquis de Lafayette, is a minor character in this story. This guy. The foppish hero of the American Revolution!
Our foppish hero was actually a lot smarter and more progressive than Colonial Williamsburg portrays him. He doesn't come across as the brightest and best mind France had to offer but he truly believed in the cause of liberty and was sincere in wanting to help. Now, with our Revolution over, he's moved on to helping his fellow Frenchmen and fears a new Revolution will soon happen. While he doesn't predict the Rein of Terror, he does predict there will be a need for people to flee warfare and strife and need to do it in secret. Therefore, he's set up a spy ring that includes Nicolette, to try to stay ahead of the situation. Huh. Who knew? He didn't mention THAT when I met him over the summer during the Lafayette 200 tour and there isn't anything on the official websites but he also didn't bring up his American spy ring so maybe it was all a secret and only come out long after his death.
M. and Mme Beaumont, neighbors of the Duke of Hartley's minor country seat where the story takes place, seem like a nice couple. She's Parisian and misses home. Mme. Beaumont is eager to meet Nicolette and her family to discuss life in Paris and all the hot gossip. Yet she seems devoted to her French-English husband and new home. They become good friends to the young ladies who need older, more settled female friends.
The Gents are always so much fun. Yet it's sad to read Stanley living and speaking. I can't remember but this might be his first living on page appearance. Stanley was very wise and kind. I think it must run in the Cummings family. Julia as Mater did say Charlie was just like her brother. (Charlie is like Julia and Lucas.) Stanley was a very good friend and he saw Henri for who he really is and befriended Henri without looking back. Stanley kept them all going with his happy go lucky nature and words of advice. Lucas may have ADHD but he can focus when it comes to his family and friends. He's goofy, loves children and longs for a family to replace the siblings he lost in childhood. Lucas dreams of adventures with Philip, who is a baby still, around a year old. (Layton is on the way and arrives at the end of the book). I cried thinking of the adventures he never got to have with his sons, especially Charlie who is so much like Stanley. Lord Aldric is brooding too. He has an abusive father who thinks the sun rises and sets on his heir and Aldric is a lowly worm. Aldric wants to avoid an arranged marriage, one Niles is facing very soon, so he absents himself from the narrative to avoid his family. I think otherwise, he and Henri's sister would get along very well and make a nice couple.
We get to know Digby a little better. He's hiding behind a mask of lightheartedness and fashion but it sounds like he, too, comes from an abusive household with a cruel father. We also get a closer look at Niles. Puppy is grown up now and facing an arranged marriage he doesn't want. He's kind of quiet and introspective at times.
Roderick, the little lord who will one day be Duke of Hartley (mentioned in The Jonquils series), is a sweet, lonely little boy. He longs for attention from adults as he grows and is no longer a baby. He's learning French, the language of his grandmother, from his Uncle Aldric, the only one who pays any attention to him. I feel sorry for the lad. His father, Lord Mowbary, is arrogant and rude. He's dismissive of anyone he thinks beneath him and his son has no place in his adult world. Nor do games or anything fun his younger brother wants to do. Lord Mowbary willingly inflicts his father's cruelty onto Lord Aldric and enjoys friendships only in relation to what others can do for him. He thinks marriage between his little brother and a Frenchwoman would be just the thing to make him fashionable and popular. UGH.
This wasn't my favorite of the Gents series so far but I am eager to see what happens next. Yet I also dread it because I do know what happens to Lucas and his family.
January 1, 2024
It's been fun learning more about the Gents! Henri is a sweetheart and Nicolette is very gracious. I enjoyed hearing all of the French accents with the audiobook!
October 1, 2023
Is there anything more satisfying than a second chance romance?
Henri is the Gent I’ve been the most interested in and I was thrilled to get his story. Fleeing his home country must have been difficult, but it was so heartwarming that this group took him right in. I love the teasing banter these friends have with one another, even though Henri is the quiet one.
I completely understand how Henri feels he must hide an important piece of himself–even from his chosen family (these friends). He’s quiet and sensitive, yet smart and dreamy, and it was so much fun to watch him at the house party.
Yes, there is a house party (I love those!) in this story and it was so entertaining to watch it unfold, especially as it didn’t quite go as planned. Nicolette and all her delicate secrets are invited and Henri wants to avoid her at all costs, but the interactions are unavoidable and the chemistry is undeniable.
Things I loved:
❣️second chance romance
❣️friends who are more like family
❣️intrigue, mystery, and suspense
❣️all the French
❣️the swoon
❣️THE SCAVENGER HUNT
Sarah Eden is a master storyteller, crossing over her series and connecting characters and families in brilliant and creative ways and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Content: mild moments of peril; mild romance
Henri is the Gent I’ve been the most interested in and I was thrilled to get his story. Fleeing his home country must have been difficult, but it was so heartwarming that this group took him right in. I love the teasing banter these friends have with one another, even though Henri is the quiet one.
I completely understand how Henri feels he must hide an important piece of himself–even from his chosen family (these friends). He’s quiet and sensitive, yet smart and dreamy, and it was so much fun to watch him at the house party.
Yes, there is a house party (I love those!) in this story and it was so entertaining to watch it unfold, especially as it didn’t quite go as planned. Nicolette and all her delicate secrets are invited and Henri wants to avoid her at all costs, but the interactions are unavoidable and the chemistry is undeniable.
Things I loved:
❣️second chance romance
❣️friends who are more like family
❣️intrigue, mystery, and suspense
❣️all the French
❣️the swoon
❣️THE SCAVENGER HUNT
Sarah Eden is a master storyteller, crossing over her series and connecting characters and families in brilliant and creative ways and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Content: mild moments of peril; mild romance
August 28, 2023
3.5 As has become the norm in Eden novels of late, characters seem to be either black or white. I liked it anyway. The friends are fun to be around and ridiculously supportive of one another, though I do think that the author could spend a bit less time pointing that out when she actually demonstrates it quite well. The final solution we arrived at felt a bit too easy considering the intensity demonstrated earlier in the book.
Finally, I find myself increasingly baffled that at the end of the previous series Julia's children did not know these Gents.
Finally, I find myself increasingly baffled that at the end of the previous series Julia's children did not know these Gents.
July 9, 2023
So far I haven't read a Sarah M. Eden book I didn't love and I doubt I will because she writes stories like no one else can. The characters are so well done the reader feels as if they know them so we're happy when they're happy and sad when they struggle. I felt all of Henri Fortier's struggles as I learned his story.
Henri's story had me feeling so many things. Upset at how his brother treated him, sad that he didn't have home of his own and how he hated relying on his friends, proud when he confronted his brother about his shrinking allowance and that he stayed true to himself when deciding his future.
Second-chance romances are one of my favorites so Henri's second chance with Nicolette added to my enjoyment of this book. I loved Nicolette! I thought she and Henri had wonderful chemistry and worked well together. One of my favorite parts were the games especially the scavenger hunt!!
Things I loved about this book:
⚜ Second chance romance
⚜ Found/chosen family
⚜ Shenanigans from The Gents
⚜ Scavenger Hunt
⚜ Element of suspense & mystery
⚜ Seeing all of the Gents, Violet, Julia & baby Philip
Each book in this series makes me love these men more and more. I can't wait for the next book in the series so I can get to know these wonderful men even better.
I received a complimentary digital copy. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Henri's story had me feeling so many things. Upset at how his brother treated him, sad that he didn't have home of his own and how he hated relying on his friends, proud when he confronted his brother about his shrinking allowance and that he stayed true to himself when deciding his future.
Second-chance romances are one of my favorites so Henri's second chance with Nicolette added to my enjoyment of this book. I loved Nicolette! I thought she and Henri had wonderful chemistry and worked well together. One of my favorite parts were the games especially the scavenger hunt!!
Things I loved about this book:
⚜ Second chance romance
⚜ Found/chosen family
⚜ Shenanigans from The Gents
⚜ Scavenger Hunt
⚜ Element of suspense & mystery
⚜ Seeing all of the Gents, Violet, Julia & baby Philip
Each book in this series makes me love these men more and more. I can't wait for the next book in the series so I can get to know these wonderful men even better.
I received a complimentary digital copy. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
July 8, 2023
I love The Gents and getting to know them better through their house parties and growing numbers. Little Phillip makes his debut, and we get to know our favorite Frenchman, Henri Fortier, on a much deeper level.
I also love getting to know Stanley Cummings so much better through the memories shared-he was such a force for good and the glue that keeps them strong even after his death.
I love seeing the women that join the ranks and how they connect so well and lovingly while also being their own strong forces for good.
As always, I also love the reference to flowers for each of these books, and look forward to what the future titles will be
I also love getting to know Stanley Cummings so much better through the memories shared-he was such a force for good and the glue that keeps them strong even after his death.
I love seeing the women that join the ranks and how they connect so well and lovingly while also being their own strong forces for good.
As always, I also love the reference to flowers for each of these books, and look forward to what the future titles will be
June 8, 2023
A slow burn romance set just between the American and French Revolutions, “Fleur De Lis” matches a pair of French aristocrats and leads them in a slow dance that pairs them neatly together and leaves the reader sighing in contentment.
Read full review in the 2023 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 18, 2024
Years ago, Henri lost his heart to a young woman in France named Nicolette. He declared himself, and she . . . declared her intentions to marry a man with property.
Under the financial thumb of his critical older brother, Henri finds his prospects shrinking rather than expanding. His yearly visits with the Gents, a group of close former school chums, usually provide him with solace, a sense of true family, and hope for the future.
But this year, the Gents' gathering includes several unanticipated guests. Among them a young woman from France named Nicolette.
I enjoyed this novel, particularly getting to know Henri better and seeing Nicolette strive to untangle her former life while growing as a human being within her present.
Under the financial thumb of his critical older brother, Henri finds his prospects shrinking rather than expanding. His yearly visits with the Gents, a group of close former school chums, usually provide him with solace, a sense of true family, and hope for the future.
But this year, the Gents' gathering includes several unanticipated guests. Among them a young woman from France named Nicolette.
I enjoyed this novel, particularly getting to know Henri better and seeing Nicolette strive to untangle her former life while growing as a human being within her present.
July 22, 2023
"Let me offer a bit of hard-earned wisdom," Lucas said. "When a remarkably
intelligent woman offers you a bit of very intelligent advice, you would do well
to take it."
I love it whenever I get to step back into this world that Sarah M. Eden has created! She has an amazing gift when it comes to creating worlds and characters that just draw you in and make you wish you could know them in real life. This is Henri’s story, and I loved getting to know him more. And I always love seeing Lucas and Julia. I just finished this book, and I’m already anxious for the next one in this series!
intelligent woman offers you a bit of very intelligent advice, you would do well
to take it."
I love it whenever I get to step back into this world that Sarah M. Eden has created! She has an amazing gift when it comes to creating worlds and characters that just draw you in and make you wish you could know them in real life. This is Henri’s story, and I loved getting to know him more. And I always love seeing Lucas and Julia. I just finished this book, and I’m already anxious for the next one in this series!
May 4, 2026
"We too often think forgiveness looks like absolution...But I think forgiveness is becoming the person the one who hurt us would have prevented us from being. Forgiveness is never about the one who inflicted the pain but rather is the gift we give ourselves: permission not to be the proof of their hateful prophecies."
As always, another delightful read from Sarah M. Eden. (Seeing little Philip and Layton was so precious--my heart). I didn't love this one as much as her others but the group dynamics were a solid five star, the story just didn't cling to me as much as others have. I am really excited to see where the other books in the series take the story. (None of the stories better include Lucas dying or I'm going to actually drown in my tears--100% will be on my autopsy report so I'm praying that will be studiously avoided in the future).
As always, another delightful read from Sarah M. Eden. (Seeing little Philip and Layton was so precious--my heart). I didn't love this one as much as her others but the group dynamics were a solid five star, the story just didn't cling to me as much as others have. I am really excited to see where the other books in the series take the story. (None of the stories better include Lucas dying or I'm going to actually drown in my tears--100% will be on my autopsy report so I'm praying that will be studiously avoided in the future).
July 7, 2023
Henri Fortier has spent thirteen years away from his homeland of France, claiming his friend group—‘The Gents’ as they are affectionately called—as his family in England. But when he is invited to a Gents’ house party and his estranged brother and younger sister are also there, as well as Nicolette, the woman who broke his heart three years ago, he is at a loss as to how to proceed. But as the house party progresses, his traitorous heart begins to fall for the lovely Nicolette again. Nicolette is in the midst of a mission for a secret group in France, however, and a looming scandal regarding a broken engagement. Can these two people find a way to overcome the defenses around their hearts and let love in?
Fleur de Lis is a gentle romance filled with French phrases and mannerisms, coupled with a proper British house party that features a streak of mischievousness. Nicolette and Henri are both complicated characters with the past holding onto their futures as they get reacquainted. Read the rest of my review on Meridian Magazine https://latterdaysaintmag.com/book-ch...
Fleur de Lis is a gentle romance filled with French phrases and mannerisms, coupled with a proper British house party that features a streak of mischievousness. Nicolette and Henri are both complicated characters with the past holding onto their futures as they get reacquainted. Read the rest of my review on Meridian Magazine https://latterdaysaintmag.com/book-ch...
February 10, 2024
This book was like reconnecting with a bunch of old friends! The characters that make up this series group of friends have such an easy banter and make you feel good. There were a few parts of the plot that were predictable and a few that surprised me. Overall not my favorite book by this author, but still a good book. Again the characters are my favorite part of this series!!!
August 19, 2024
I loved returning to the Gents. The addition of a spy element is intriguing. The love/hate relationship between the English and the French is palpable.
Bravo once again, Sarah
Bravo once again, Sarah
January 29, 2025
These books are everything
June 23, 2023
i absolutely love Sarah M Eden's books. This one is no exception. I adore her attention to details and all the little things that ties the characters in her world together. I love when I see characters from other books and the details just add so much to the story.
Fleur de Lis is such a beautiful story, Front and center is Henri who is looking for a home. He and Aldric are meant to be hosting the Gents gathering on the year, when Aldric's brother takes over. What ensues is a reunion with Henri's brother and his wife, his sister, and a woman he fell in love with long ago, Nicolette.
i adore these two, Nicolette and Henri are well matched and their chemistry is undeniable. Henri is facing money troubles and feels that he has lost his chance with her. Nicolette is trying what she can to create a network of safehouses under the guidance of the Marquis de Lafayette.
The story is well written, engaging and well paced with the relationships and with the conflict. As it is a Gents book, it is not without mischief. It is romantic in the best ways, Sarah Eden has outdone herself once again.
Fleur de Lis is such a beautiful story, Front and center is Henri who is looking for a home. He and Aldric are meant to be hosting the Gents gathering on the year, when Aldric's brother takes over. What ensues is a reunion with Henri's brother and his wife, his sister, and a woman he fell in love with long ago, Nicolette.
i adore these two, Nicolette and Henri are well matched and their chemistry is undeniable. Henri is facing money troubles and feels that he has lost his chance with her. Nicolette is trying what she can to create a network of safehouses under the guidance of the Marquis de Lafayette.
The story is well written, engaging and well paced with the relationships and with the conflict. As it is a Gents book, it is not without mischief. It is romantic in the best ways, Sarah Eden has outdone herself once again.
June 23, 2025
This was going to be a four star for a while, because it’s kind of overwhelming in my opinion. Not because of the length, but because in this book there are so many new people, families, and conflicts that are introduced and it’s just a little difficult to remember each one, so it got a bit overwhelming. 😅 But after I finished it, I realized, come on. It’s a Sarah M. Eden book. Obviously it’s a five star read. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the gents series with all of my heart.
September 8, 2023
I LOVE Sarah M Eden's books but this series may be too slow or it may just not have enough going on. I don't need tons of drama, but conspired to Lucas and Julia's book, the last too were a little too sedate in pace and plot. I cannot wait for Digby's book and hope that one will have a flair of drama we deserve.
May 24, 2023
Sarah Eden is one of my favorite local (to my area) authors. This is the third in her Gents (Georgian Era) series that focuses on a group of male friends who met at school. The Gents, as the group is known, try to gather together once a year for a house party. Two are married (first two books) and the rest single. There is a couple of storylines happening in this book but the main romance is for Henri Fortier. Henri is from France and came to England to study and has not returned home in three years. His father has died and his older brother is cutting his income hoping to force him to return to France. One of Gents is a second son of a Duke and they’ve gathered at his invitation at one of his fathers country homes. To everyones surprise the Duke invites two families who are prominent in Paris hoping to building alliances. Henri’s brother and younger sister are guests as is Nicolette Beaulieu who broke Henri's heart three years before. Nicolette has her own back story and has secret ties to Lafayette.
Eden writes clean books but knows how to convey passion between people. It can be though a kiss on the hand, eyes meeting across a room or a touch of the cheek or hair. I also like the complexity of her characters. There is clear background and motivation for both mains and important side characters. There is intricacy in having a large group of core friends. The author gives everyone lines and moments to show their personalities. I love that they enjoy silly games together like a scavenger hunt or Hide and Seek. One small annoyance is keeping track of all the names. Each man can be called by his first or last name or honorary title. And then each as a nickname as well. Henri is the Archbishop. Add in the French names in this book and it is a lot to keep straight.
I really enjoyed this story and it may be my favorite in the series so far. The bits of historical information on Lafayette, medicine and even contract law enhance the book. Now I will have to wait another year for the next adventure. Luckily for me I already have another book from Eden’s other series on my TBR pile. Thank you to Covenant Communications for the ARC via NetGalley and I am leaving a voluntary review. (4.5 Stars)
Eden writes clean books but knows how to convey passion between people. It can be though a kiss on the hand, eyes meeting across a room or a touch of the cheek or hair. I also like the complexity of her characters. There is clear background and motivation for both mains and important side characters. There is intricacy in having a large group of core friends. The author gives everyone lines and moments to show their personalities. I love that they enjoy silly games together like a scavenger hunt or Hide and Seek. One small annoyance is keeping track of all the names. Each man can be called by his first or last name or honorary title. And then each as a nickname as well. Henri is the Archbishop. Add in the French names in this book and it is a lot to keep straight.
I really enjoyed this story and it may be my favorite in the series so far. The bits of historical information on Lafayette, medicine and even contract law enhance the book. Now I will have to wait another year for the next adventure. Luckily for me I already have another book from Eden’s other series on my TBR pile. Thank you to Covenant Communications for the ARC via NetGalley and I am leaving a voluntary review. (4.5 Stars)
June 21, 2023
Sarah has done it again! Another amazingly written novel that kept me turning the pages. Besides, Lucas and Julia's book, this one might be a favorite from the Gent's series.
If you enjoy these things below, this might just be the book for you!
⚜️Georgian Era
⚜️Lucas and Digby shenanigans
⚜️A little mystery
⚜️Second chance romance
⚜️He falls first
I loved being able to dive back into the world of the Gents and read about Henri and Nicolette's story. They get a second chance to renew their friendship and have it develop into more. And in the process, they help each other out with their difficulties, along with the Gents support, to be able to make a life for themselves.
I love the brotherhood and the sense of family that you find in this series. All so accepting of each other. There is teasing and banter but they also support each other and are loyal to the end. Its a beautiful thing. Another favorite thing I enjoyed throughout this book was the little tidbits on what the other gents are going through in their lives. It was icing on the cake. Made me curious as well as excited to what will happen in their stories.
Thank you so much for letting me read and review this book Sarah. It was a joy to be on this launch team as well.
I was given a complimentary earc of this book for my honest review. These are my words.
If you enjoy these things below, this might just be the book for you!
⚜️Georgian Era
⚜️Lucas and Digby shenanigans
⚜️A little mystery
⚜️Second chance romance
⚜️He falls first
I loved being able to dive back into the world of the Gents and read about Henri and Nicolette's story. They get a second chance to renew their friendship and have it develop into more. And in the process, they help each other out with their difficulties, along with the Gents support, to be able to make a life for themselves.
I love the brotherhood and the sense of family that you find in this series. All so accepting of each other. There is teasing and banter but they also support each other and are loyal to the end. Its a beautiful thing. Another favorite thing I enjoyed throughout this book was the little tidbits on what the other gents are going through in their lives. It was icing on the cake. Made me curious as well as excited to what will happen in their stories.
Thank you so much for letting me read and review this book Sarah. It was a joy to be on this launch team as well.
I was given a complimentary earc of this book for my honest review. These are my words.
December 25, 2024
When Henri Fortier left France to go to Oxford in England 13 years before, he knew it would be a sacrifice, and a salvation. A sacrifice, because it removed him from his sister and others that he loved, but a salvation, because he was finally separated from his verbally abusive father. It also was where he met his lifelong friends, the Gents. But when they get together for their yearly house party, his excitement for arranging for his sister to visit is dampened when his estranged brother also attends. As well as Nicolette Beaulieu, the woman who unwittingly broke his heart three years earlier. But not only does she not even remember the incident, but she is harboring her own heartache, sorrows, and secrets.
A wonderful addition to the series, and I loved Henri's character. Sweet, clean and fun.
A wonderful addition to the series, and I loved Henri's character. Sweet, clean and fun.
June 14, 2023
The late eighteenth century is an era that has always intrigued me but one I have read little about in fiction, so it was exciting to visit that time in Fleur de Lis. I enjoyed getting to know the Gents even more and get a bit of set up for future stories. Plus, it’s always fun to see the young Jonquil brothers. I will admit that parts of the story started to feel a bit slow, as sometimes happens with books centered on a house party, but Henri and Nicolette were very sweet and endearing characters to follow. I’m excited for more in this series. 4/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 2, 2023
Henri's story is a bit heartbreaking between his past love and his finances and his home situation and his family. It was difficult to see how he would get a happy ending. His love of others saw him through as well as his chosen family. Nicolette also has secrets. She has a lot going on and so much could go wrong. Add in a few horrible brothers who want to control things and a big bad duke, and it's an amazing house party with the Gents. I loved Henri and how he took care of the children, especially when ill. Beautiful story, very fitting for a poet like Henri.
April 22, 2024
Sarah Eden is one of those authors that I know I’ll enjoy every story she writes. There were so many things that I loved about this book. Henri and Nicolette both had compelling backstories. Their romance was easy to root for, and they were both likeable characters.
I really enjoyed the way this set up for the French Revolution. It was intriguing to watch the beginning of this history unfold. I’m excited to see how this plays out in subsequent books.
As always, the friendships are some of the best. The side characters are loveable and bring humor to the story. I’m looking forward to more of their stories.
I did find the inner dialogue of both Henri and Nicolette to be repetitive, and I wished that it had not been so prominent. I still enjoyed the story, but found myself wanting to get past those parts. I wanted more of Nicolette and Henri together, more of the friends, and more mischief.
I listened to the audio, and I think it impacted my feelings negatively. Lately, it seems like the proper romance books are using the same narrator. I’ve gotten a bit tired of her. Her accents are well done but every book she narrates sounds the same. I suggest reading the physical copy.
This book contains no profanity and has kissing,
I really enjoyed the way this set up for the French Revolution. It was intriguing to watch the beginning of this history unfold. I’m excited to see how this plays out in subsequent books.
As always, the friendships are some of the best. The side characters are loveable and bring humor to the story. I’m looking forward to more of their stories.
I did find the inner dialogue of both Henri and Nicolette to be repetitive, and I wished that it had not been so prominent. I still enjoyed the story, but found myself wanting to get past those parts. I wanted more of Nicolette and Henri together, more of the friends, and more mischief.
I listened to the audio, and I think it impacted my feelings negatively. Lately, it seems like the proper romance books are using the same narrator. I’ve gotten a bit tired of her. Her accents are well done but every book she narrates sounds the same. I suggest reading the physical copy.
This book contains no profanity and has kissing,
October 29, 2026
Was this a bad book? No. Is my rating potentially because I was going through life changes that made it hard to focus? Potentially.
But overall, I wasn’t drawn to this book nearly as much. I wasn’t invested in either of the main characters. I have a feeling that it had to do with the extended family members who I just didn’t like or understand. I kept getting names mixed up which left me quite confused.
But overall, I wasn’t drawn to this book nearly as much. I wasn’t invested in either of the main characters. I have a feeling that it had to do with the extended family members who I just didn’t like or understand. I kept getting names mixed up which left me quite confused.
July 26, 2023
Sarah M. Eden weaves another fantastic tale. Having such diverse characters is something that only adds to the magic of her novels. The characters are complex and the Gents themselves are ridiculously delightful. Fleur-de-lis was no different and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it.
June 27, 2023
This is not exciting or intense and the ending was a little lacking but I just love the Gents and hence the 4 star rating. I did like both Henri and Nicolette’s characters. This is a slow but tender story that leaves a bit unresolved at the end but definitely worth reading.
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