Follow the Heart

The Great Exhibition #1

by Kaye Dacus

Kate Dearing’s life is turned upside down when her father loses everything in a railroad land speculation and she and her brother are shipped off to their mother’s brother, Sir Anthony, in England with one edict: marry money.

Though their uncle tries to ensure Kate finds matrimonial prospects only among the highest echelon of British society, her attentions stray to the one of the least eligible people at her uncle’s home—the garden designer.

Trying to push her feelings for the handsome—but not wealthy—man aside, Kate’s prospects brighten when a friend of Sir Anthony’s, a wealthy viscount, shows favorable interest in her. But will marrying for the financial security of her family be the right thing to do, when her heart is telling her she’s making a mistake?

Mandates . . . money . . . matrimony. Who will follow the heart?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Christian Historical Fiction, Christian

320 pages, Paperback

First published April 15, 2013

About the author

Kaye Dacus is a professional editor, author, and educator who has been writing fiction for more nearly forty years. Pursuing her passion for writing, she earned a Master of Arts in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. Kaye lives in Middle Tennessee, where she is a training documentation specialist in the IT industry and volunteers teaching writing in the community. She writes contemporary and historical romances; and while her contemporary romances are out of print, her historicals are available at most major retailers. To learn more about Kaye and her books, visit her website at kayedacus.com.

Reviews

[Kelli · Rating 2 out of 5]

The problem I have with this one wasn't so much the writing as the story line. Just toooo many POVs. I didn't love Kate and how she acted or her reasoning. Plus her being called an old maid or past her prime every 5 seconds when she was only twenty seven got really old fast. If it's said once, it doesn't need to be said by three different characters. The Great exhibition is a very good setting for a story, this just wasn't executed well and did not hold my attention.

[Caity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to follow.

[English · Rating 3 out of 5]

A few Americanisms, but an alright story although it was a bit predictable and cliched towards the end.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A highlight of the Victorian Era was the Great Exhibition, which was planned and organized by Prince Albert. I was delighted when I saw that Kaye Dacus had written a two-book series focusing on this milestone event. The first book focuses on a brother and sister from Philadelphia who journey to London in order to live with their British relatives long enough to marry rich spouses.

Christopher and Kate Dearing are disappointed when their father reveals that his bad choices have cost the family their fortune, and now they must be the ones to sacrifice in order to secure their own futures, as well as the wellbeing and comfort of their stepmother and stepsisters. Their uncle, Lord Anthony, is welcoming and willing to assist by introducing them to his social circle. Two of their cousins are also friendly and cheerful, but oldest cousin Edith sees Kate as a rival for her own matrimonial pursuits.

Kate has a hard time fighting against bitterness for her new circumstances. She wants to marry for love but now must put all her efforts into catching the eye of a wealthy suitor. Her real passion is plants and gardens, and her enjoyment of her uncle's grounds is enhanced by getting to know the landscape architect who has been hired to redesign the estate. Even knowing a future with Andrew is impossible, Kate feels a great attraction towards him.

Immediately upon their arrival Christopher's attention was caught by Nora, his youngest cousin's governess. While Christopher has more freedom that Kate because of his education and capacity to find employment, he still doesn't want to leave the whole burden of supporting their family on her shoulders. Pursuing his employment opportunities allows Christopher to spend some time in London before the Great Exhibition opens, getting an inside view of the building of the Crystal Palace.

This story was highly character driven, and it took me several weeks to read even though I enjoyed it. I would have appreciated more scenes actually set at the Great Exhibition, but maybe they will be included in the second book. I'd recommend this for readers who enjoy stories set in the Victorian Era.

This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com

[Abbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kate and her brother are sent to England to live with a relative and find a rich spouse to keep the family from being penniless due to a railroad deal gone bad. Kate is older and knows that her age and the fact she does not have a dowry is going to make it harder to find someone to marry. What she does not expect is to find a handsome garden designer who shares her love for plants. When a viscount shows interest in her as well she must choose her family or her heart.

This is the first in a new series that takes place in the mid 1800’s.

What I liked: The story was interesting and I liked the characters for the most part. Though I found the story about her brother and the governess more interesting at times then the main story. I also liked hearing about The Great Exhibition and the description of the glass building was quite impressive.

What I did not like: The story was slow at times and even though the story line was interesting it also felt a little weak. Maybe its just hard for me to understand needing to marry for money to keep the family happy. Her father made a bad choice and expecting his kids to bail him out seemed silly.

Over all it was an okay book. I really liked the ending and felt the last 25% of the book made up for the slow beginning. I am interested to see if the next book in the series has any ties to this book. If you like historical fiction you might like this book.

http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2013/0...

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loss, worry, fear, love, spiteful characters to overcome, faith, and beauty are only some of the many wonderful things found in Follow the Heart! :) This is a good read that has a GREAT message. I highly recommend reading it for that reason alone, but that isn't the only reason this is a good book! :) I loved the characters and the premise for the story, woven together by Kaye's elegant style. Humor entangled with difficult circumstances and choices are the basis for Kate and Christopher's stories. They strive to do the right thing even if it means sacrificing there heart's desire. Kaye Dacus weaves the message of learning how to pray and what prayer can truly mean beautifully! The only fault I found was that it was a little long for my liking. Seeming to drag on in areas, and pick up slightly towards the end. While I feel that there where some things that could have been cut a little shorter I really enjoyed some of the scenes, and because I love plants and gardens myself I really felt a connection to the story. I love the inspirations for Follow the Heart as mentioned in her Reader's Letter. And now I really wish I was able to see Prince Albert's Great Exhibition! :)

My songs for this book are: "Walzer-Bouquet No. 1" by Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, "Reitermarsch, Op. 428" by Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, "Vienna Blood, Op.354 - Waltz" by Johann Strauss, and "Trust and Obey" by Eric J. Littleton, M.D.

Jeremiah 29:11

~ASC

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Regency romances are some of my favorite stories to read, while Follow the Heart the first in a new series by Kaye Dacus is set during a later period, it still has that sweet, easy pace that I love regencies for. What really appealed to me about this book was the fact that there were not one but two romances that developed in the course of the story. I'm not usually fond of books that feature more than one romance in a single story but Ms. Dacus did a wonderful job of making it natural and in no way rushed. Often times one of the couple's gets the short end of the stick and I say to myself, "Well, that escalated quickly", but not so with Follow the Heart. The only teeny thing that disappointed me with this book was the lack of Great Exhibition scenes. Since it's part of a series called the Great Exhibition I guess I was expecting more to take place there. However, I did adore the final scene in the Crystal Palace *sigh*! Here's to hoping for even more romance and industry in book 2, An Honest Heart!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*

[Dana Kamstra · Rating 4 out of 5]

If one romance makes for a good book, then two must make it exceptional. Follow the Heart follows Kate and Christopher, two siblings who are sent to England to marry wealthy spouses. Of course as any book worth reading would do, Kate and Christopher develop affections for a gardener and a governess, not exactly wealthy prospects.

I enjoyed this book quite a bit. While it might not be a novel that stands out to me among others, I was entertained and wrapped up in the story. Both of the storylines are a bit different from each other but they are also intertwined. And amidst it all, is a lesson in trusting God.

The cast of characters was quite vibrant. The cousins, sour Edith, timid Dorcas, and inquisitive Florence, each add their own element to this story through their interactions with Kate and Christopher.

I do wish that a bit more of the story would have occurred around The Great Exhibition, as that is one of the reasons that this book drew me. The World's Fairs settings are always fascinating to me and they seem like excellent story fodder. While we do see a bit of the fair and Queen Victoria, there isn't much, but I'm hoping the next novel in the series has a bit more.

**I received a free copy of this book from B&H Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review**

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review:

I felt like the lead character Kate Dearing was in an awkward situation. She had no other gentlemen calling to court her. And the one that was, she could barely stand. Devlin, the one she thought she would eventually marry was handsome and fairly wealthy. Until he decides to open his mouth one day and the wrong things come spilling out. Finding out how one truly feels will sometimes change things for an individual and so it did for Kate. Kate and her brother Christopher are both in the market to be wed.

Kate and Christopher were sent to the train station to meet Kate's newest suitor that her Father arranged for her. When out of no where she is blindsided by the fact the the potential suitor sends someone in his stead. But when Kate and Andrew lay eyes on one another things develop between them rather quickly. Andrew was not actually the potential suitor. This book starts getting revved up rather fast and before long you feel like you are there in England yourself.

**Disclosure** I received this book free of charge for my honest review from CFBA.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Follow the Heart was another great book by Kaye Dacus. I've loved every single one of her books and this one is no different. It was the type of book that I wanted to read as fast as I could, yet at the same time, I wanted to take my time and savour every moment of it.

I felt as though I was transported back to Victorian England while reading this lovely and inspirational romance. The characters seemed to come to life and jumped out of the pages for me. I could feel their ups and downs, their struggles and triumphs and wondered how (and if) things would end the way I wished them to end.

I enjoyed every single second of this book and, needless to say, HIGHLY recommend it! Kaye Dacus has once again cemented herself on my favorite authors list and I can't wait to read more from her!

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another clean easy read

[Rachel Brand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Dearing is already a spinster in the eyes of Philadelphia society, and when her only suitor drops her upon hearing that her father has lost his entire fortune in a railroad speculation, her prospects seem bleaker than ever. Convinced that the only way to restore his family’s position is to marry money, Kate’s father sends her and her brother to England to visit their uncle, Sir Anthony. While Christopher hopes to use his experience as a lawyer to support their family, and thus avoid marrying someone he doesn’t love, Kate knows her only hope is to marry into money. But can she really settle for a marriage of convenience for the sake of restoring her family to their previous position in society?

Despite her annoyance at being used by her father to replace the money he lost, Kate entertains the attentions of the young men who frequent her uncle’s home, and manages to catch the eye of the eligible Lord Thynne. But it is not Lord Thynne who Kate truly longs to be with. Not long after arriving at her uncle’s home, Kate’s explorations of the family gardens brought her into contact with Andrew, a young landscape artist hired by her uncle. Their common interest in gardening, as well as their conflicting opinions on the subject, give them excuses to spend time together. Eventually, neither of them can deny their attraction for each other, even though they know it can never go anywhere. Kate is faced with a difficult choice—marry for love and leave her family destitute, or marry for money and be unhappy for the rest of her life. Can she trust God to guide her to the right man, or will she be forced to take matters into her own hands?

Although I’d heard of Kaye Dacus prior to reading this book, Follow the Heart is the first of her novels that I’ve had the pleasure of reading. What initially drew me to this series was the topic of the Great Exhibition, around which the plot is centred, and the Downton Abbey feel that the synopsis had. Although this novel is set nearly seventy years before the first episode of Downton Abbey, the upstairs/downstairs relationships and setting evoked a similar feeling, which will definitely appeal to those readers who are anxiously awaiting the fourth season.

Being able to see the luxurious lifestyle of Sir Anthony’s family through the eyes of a visiting American was certainly an interesting experience, since most British historical novels are told from the perspective of an insider. I was just as amused and perplexed as Kate was at some of the traditions and expectations of her uncle’s family, and I’m sure many readers will appreciate learning about the differences in British and American high society in the 1850s. And even if you’re not a history fan, the descriptions of Kate’s wonderful dresses are more than worth reading this novel for. I’m sure we’ll be in for a treat in the second book in the series, which focuses on Kate’s dressmaker.

I don’t believe I’ve ever come across a gardening hero before, and I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from Kate and Andrew’s shared hobby. Gardening isn’t something I’ve ever been terribly interested in, but their passion for the subject drew me in. Although I knew that Kate and Andrew would somehow get their happily ever after ending (after all, this is a romance novel, and we read these books because we want happy endings!) there were several times when I began to doubt myself and wonder if Kaye was going to spring a surprise twist on her readers. The conflict was strong enough to keep me guessing and wondering whether Kate and Andrew would really get together. I felt Kate’s need to support her parents and siblings so strongly that at times I wanted to yank her away from Andrew because I knew she couldn’t bring herself to abandon her family, but then I wanted to throw her back to Andrew because her happiness is surely more important than her family’s money.

Kate’s situation is one that I’m sure many women found themselves in at this time. Many American women were sent to Britain in the late nineteenth century, although more often or not they were married into noble families for their money, not their need of it (Cora in Downton Abbey, anyone?) But whether these women were marrying money or bringing cash to a bankrupt British family, the situation was hardly different. As much as I enjoy a good historical romance, I know that we often skim over the uncomfortable details of the period. Marriages of convenience are among my favourite types of romances, but I know that not all of them end happily—as Kate felt with her courtship to Lord Thynne. I didn’t envy Kate’s position, nor that of many of the other women in Follow the Heart. I appreciated that Kaye chose to show how difficult it was having to marry for duty, not love, and how many women from high society never had the opportunity to even contemplate falling in love.

Kate envies her youngest cousin’s governess, despite all the excitement and glitz that is lacking from Nora’s life. Like Christopher, Nora is able to earn a living and support herself without being forced to marry someone she doesn’t love. As interesting as I found the conversations between Kate and Nora, as well as the acknowledgement that they both had difficult lives despite their different social standings, I did find the secondary romance between Nora and Christopher to be too rushed for my liking. They seemed to fall in love almost at first sight, and although I was happy for them in the end, I did wish more of the book had focused on them falling in love with each other so that I could have really believed in the strength of their love for each other. Likewise, the ending to the novel felt a little too perfect, with everything wrapped up incredibly neatly. Considering the difficulties Kate and Christopher encountered throughout the novel, it just felt a little too perfect to be realistic.

Although I feel like I’ve said a lot about this novel, I can’t quite verbalise just how much I loved Follow the Heart. I thought this would be a fairly light, historical romance, but it ended up being so much deeper than that. I really felt for Kate and hurt alongside her as she struggled between doing what her family thought was right and trusting that God would find a way to bring them through their difficult times. The spiritual side of this book is relatively minimal, but the message of trusting in God is one that we all need reminded of from time to time.

It’s very easy to get wrapped up in the lives of the characters in Follow the Heart, and suddenly look up from your book and realise in shock that you’re not in a beautifully landscaped garden in England in 1851. I was sad to see this book end, but I have high hopes for the rest of The Great Exhibition series, and will most certainly be picking up An Honest Heart in October.

Review title provided by B&H.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives the reader an insight into mid-nineteenth century England and America. Two American siblings are forced to try to find marriages in England that will solve the financial problems their family faces in Philadelphia. Characters you will root for, Kate and Christopher, are interspersed with characters I did not like at all, Edith for example. The author makes some good points about listening for God's guidance, and the ending is somewhat satisfying. The reader will ponder what sacrifices they would be willing to make if the welfare of their family seemed to depend on it. I would have liked to read a little bit more about The Great Exhibition. Perhaps that comes later in the series.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story about two siblings who travel to England to find rich spouses after their father loses his fortune in Philadelphia.
I liked the hero Andrew who was a landscape architect and the fact that Kate loved gardens. She had a noble obligation to do what was best for her family but her heart had other ideas. Likewise, her brother Christopher, found love in an unexpected circumstance. They both sought God to resolve their problems and learned that they had to listen to God and not go off on their own way.
I l8ke to learn about historical events and this was a good peek into the exhibition instigated by Prince Albert in 1851.
* I purchased a copy of this book from a library sale. All opinions are my own.*

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

A father who gambled on the railroad, and lost. His wife had a brother a baron in England. With plans that his son 24 and a lawyer, as well as his daughter 27 would marry into wealth to save the family. A different life style and way of doing things. For Kate her love of gardens and flowers led her to meet Andrew. As for Christopher it was to be a maid Nora. The heart strings were strong then purse strings, of which they wanted. Enjoyable and a look at the time of The Great Expedition of 1852.

[Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Telling God what you want

Aren't we all guilty of setting our demands before God in prayer? What a journey of self-revelation Kaye Dacus takes us on, as this young woman goes from telling God what she wants to submitting herself and others around her to His good and holy will. A valuable lesson of the good and perfect gifts God has in store for us.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since Downton Abbey, I am officially a traditional regency fan! What does that mean? If you love historical romances set in the mid 1800's in London where social classes and marriage to a fine upstanding family are your cup of tea, then look no further than Follow The Heart by author Kaye Dacus in her Great Exhibition Series.

The story begins in Pennsylvania in 1850 where Katharine and Christopher Dearing's lives are to be turned upside down. Their father has lost the entire family fortune in a failed investment in the railroad. Katharine's opportunity of marriage to a wealthy family has been withdrawn when they learn she has no money for a dowry and her family's name is now tarnished in their social circles. Now forced to sell most of their family's belongings to keep their head above waters, their father sends Christopher and Katharine to live with their wealthy uncle in England in hopes that both of them may secure a marriage to keep the family from losing everything.

When they arrive at their uncle's estate in England, Katharine and Christopher are treated with the same respect that their cousins receive however, they are reminded by their cousin Edith that they are the poor relations from America and it would serve them well to remember their place. Now living at Wakesdown Manor in England, Katharine tries in vain to do all she can to find the most eligible man with not only a suitable title but the means to elevate her poor family back into a social standing again. Only it seems that no matter how hard she tries, she can't fight the feelings she has for Andrew Lawton, the landscape architect that works her uncle's estate. She knows she can't fall for Andrew because to do so would be beneath what her father and stepmother wanted for her but could cause their family to lose everything back in America. Her only hope is to find someone who can look back her age and background and save her family.

Her brother Christopher is hoping that he can find a way to save the family name and fortune by finding a contact in working with the local railroad companies now coming to take part in the Great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace. He doesn't want all the burden of saving their family to fall on Kate's shoulders even though she is far past the age of most women to marry and begin a family of their own. He hopes that using his expertise in railroad law he might find job that would allow Kate to find a man suitable for marriage that she truly loves instead of settling for money. Yet how can he hope for Kate finding true love among the lower class when he himself is falling in love with the governess Nora. Is it possible for Christopher and Katharine to find a way to save their family and still follow their heart?

I received Follow The Heart by Kaye Dacus compliments of B and H Publishing Group and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Tours for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. This novel reminds me of Cinderella meets Downton Abbey, only instead of the wicked step-sisters, poor Katharine and Christopher have to deal with the oldest cousin Edith who is competing with Kate to see just who can marry the richest man possible. For Edith it isn't about love but about the title and fortune that accompany her dream of marriage. She will do almost anything to remind Katharine of just where she comes from and to prevent her from finding true happiness. I encourage you traditional regency lovers to grab a cup of tea, sit by the fire and immerse yourself in this wonderful novel created just for you by Kaye Dacus. I loved this one and the only disappointment I faced was when I turned the final page. It was over too soon and I wanted more of these characters. Good thing that Kaye is adding to this series in her upcoming novel An Honest Heart this fall. I easily rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and will be adding this one to my personal library.

[Janka H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Young American siblings Kate and Christopher Dearing left native Philadelphia after their father went bankrupt with obligations to marry well to be able to financially support the rest of the family. They arrived to Great Britain in the exciting times - it is the year of 1851 and the Great Exhibition, the first world fair, is quickly approaching. The times are changing quickly as the technological progress is challenging the old feudal traditions and social statuses, but the wealth still lies with the aristocracy. Can they meet the true love when chasing money, and how do they decide if there is a need to choose between love and saving their family?

I have mixed feelings about the book. I so wanted to love it, but honestly, I can´t wholeheartedly.
I must say that Ms Dacus is a gifted writer. She can make you to get intertwined with the plot and characters, her descriptions are vivid and the gallery of heroes is quite colourful. She is also quite witty! I think the authoress can understand women well - some of the struggles descripted could be mine (like the suppressed anger Kate experiences when something is not according to her wishes or choices). But I have two main problems for which I can go only for three stars. first - i didn´t care for the romance a bit! To me the loveline is full of cliches: strong-willed woman, rude (at first meeting) man with oh-so-overused squared jaw, falling in the total love of their lives very, very soon (knowing each other for mere days)...And there is so much descriptions of Andrew´s jaw and muscular body, that I can´t helped to think the main part of the lovestory was just a physical attraction (sorry, just my honest opinion). And there is more to be said about the cliches (like poor and plain in the terms of beauty governess winning the Christopher´s heart in the same mere days). And I must say I liked lord Thynne much more than main hero - he was more mature than Andrew and fought for his goals. My second problems is more my "personal" - being an European, I cringed from time to time, knowing the European characters would never say that or behave like that (and this is not just given the times, the way of thinking is different). This is the problem the authors face when trying to describe cultures/nations/country foreign to them. I am not saying the authoress haven´t prepared well! But it is like I would try to write a book about the Wild West, I would just not catch the atmosphere like an author from the US (mainly from Wild West states like Texas).
What I liked was the last chapter speaking about importance of listening to God when praying. Very important reminder!

This was my first book by Ms Dacus, but not the last. But I admit I will go after ther modern series "Matchmakers", as I think I could appreciate her wit more in the modern setting.

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katherine Dearing has been sent from Philadelphia to England to find a rich husband who will be able to salvage her family’s financial situation. But at twenty-seven, is she too old to attract a rich husband? Or any husband? Accompanying her is her younger brother, Christopher, who has recently qualified as a solicitor specialising in railway law. He too is under pressure to marry well, although having a profession at least means he can support himself, but both of them find they are attracted to the wrong people.

The siblings are staying with their maternal uncle, Sir Anthony Buchanan, and their cousins, Edith, Dorcas and Florence. There Sir Anthony organises a house party where Kate and Christopher are introduced to many members of the aristocracy, including Viscount Thynne . They also meet Andrew Lawton, a garden designer currently working on the Wakesdown Manor gardens, and Honora Woodruff, governess to the youngest Buchanan.

I really liked the characters, even the ones I didn’t like (if that makes sense). Edith reminded me of Lady Mary from Downton Abbey—well written, but unpleasant and with too high an opinion of herself. Dorcas and Florence were much more likeable, even though they were only minor characters, so I hope we see more of them. A lot of the plot revolved around the gardens, as Kate is a keen gardener, albeit one with quite different ideas to Andrew.

I am always nervous when I see a novel set in England by an American writer, especially a historical. I have had too many ruined by insufficient research and an abundance of Americanisms, so I am relieved and pleased to say that Follow the Heart had no cultural cringes or historical anachronisms (and, in regards to factual errors, the subplot was heavily related to gardening, a subject I know little about, so I really can’t comment). I was also very pleased with the way the Christian aspects of the story were handled, particularly with Kate. My one issue is that the end of the novel felt a bit rushed—although that could be more about me reading too fast to find out how the problems are resolved.

This is the first novel in the new Great Exhibition series, set around Prince Albert’s Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace, London, in 1851. As Follow the Heart finished just after the beginning of the Exhibition, I look forward to seeing more of the Great Exhibition in future novels (hint, hint).

Thanks to B&H Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy a book written by Kaye Dacus. She has a mature writing voice that is crisp and clean. Her writing is rich in detail, full of imagination and subtle spiritual themes. In Follow the Heart, we get a glimpse into the excitement surrounding The Great Exhibition in 1851. Plus, it's a two-for-one romance! Kate and Andrew are the main couple, but Christopher and Nora play prominent rolls in the story, as well.

Kate Dearing sets sail to England with her brother, Christopher, under the assumption that she must marry someone wealthy in order to save her American family from financial ruin. Of course, she meets two gentlemen who desire her hand in marriage but only one can reign supreme. Will it be the viscount, Lord Thynne, who has charm and sophistication, and plenty of money? Or will it be Andrew Lawton, the landscape architect, redesigning the gardens at her uncle's home, that she's seen in a compromising position with, twice?

The love triangle in this book is fascinating and exciting without crossing the lines of propriety. I could have routed for either gentleman, and if truth be told, I almost wished she would have picked...oh wait. I can't tell. They're both worthy of Kate's love but only by following her heart will she find true happiness.

Christopher Dearing doesn't have any trouble following his heart! Almost as soon as he lays eyes on Nora, he is smitten. But, Nora is a governess and beneath his position as an attorney. Their budding relationship and subsequent secretive courtship is sweet and endearing.

Fans of Historical Fiction will appreciate this well written and captivating story. It kept me wishing that if time travel were possible, I would like to travel back and see the Great Exhibition. It would have been a sight to behold!

Thanks to B&H Publishing, through Netgalley, for my advance reader copy. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

If you look through my reviews, I have read a lot of Dacus' writing and obviously I quite enjoy it. Thus I was pleased to see a new release from her, this time set in 1851 England around the Great Exhibition. It follows siblings Kate and Christopher Dearing, poor relations from Philadelphia come to marry money and save the family's fortunes but both are quickly captured by someone entirely unsuitable. Will they follow their head or follow their heart? (Hint: look at the book's title.)

I am a big Kaye Dacus fan and I liked this title a lot although it is not my favorite (that is probably Stand-In Groom or A Case for Love). For me, I was less than enthused about the dual love stories for the siblings as I didn't really feel we got enough time with Christopher. I feel quite certain that I know Kate's heart, inside and out but Christopher is more enigmatic. Similarly his love interest gets less page time than hers.

But it is the message of this book that I really love. In essence, Kate (re)discovers God's great love and how he brought her to England to give her happiness. It's the reason why one (I) reads/read Inspirational fiction-for just such these moments of clarity and understanding. I really appreciated the message about waiting and listening to the Lord instead of trying to force him into your own will-patience is not my strong suit and that is a discipline in which I need to grow. I feel like this book came across my path at an excellent time, reminding me of some things I needed to remember.

Cover: I do not like that dress but Kate does tend to eschew bright fabrics for more staid clothing.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Kay Dacus and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will definitely be reading more of her work. I generally read more suspense than I do historical romance, because I enjoy the action and the stories’ quick movement. However, for me, this book was so well written that I didn’t want to put it down.

There’s quite a bit of history in this book, as it is set against the historical backdrop of The Great Exhibition of 1851 in London. This was also a time of railway expansion both in America and in Great Britain. I really like the way that the author brings so much of the effects of the Industrial Revolution into her story, along with current fashions. Together they give the reader a framework out of which the story is spun.

The social structure of the day in England plays quite a role in the story. That is all more evident due to the contrast between the American and English characters. I like the main characters, though Christopher is a bit of a challenge to understand. He is more immature than I would have expected, though quite genuinely charming. Christopher’s sister, Kate, is the real star of the cast. She is quite a lovely person, but has somewhat of a stubborn streak. Her willful stubbornness, along with her impatience are both counter-productive to her relationship with God. It is a relief to see her finally be able to open her heart to the best that God has planned for her.

I am a little disappointed in the ending. I wanted more. I see the potential for a couple additional stories from the cast of characters. I hope the author continues writing about them, as I’d like to see where their stories lead. If you enjoy historical fiction and romance, I recommend you give this book a try.

[Amanda Stephan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Americans Katharine and Christopher Dearing have a problem. Because their father has lost his fortune, they must, in essence, sell themselves to the highest bidder and marry money to save their family from financial ruin.

During a time when women of wealth were groomed only to marry money, a life of service for Katharine was out of the question. I must admit, living in the day and age in which we do, I find it repulsive that women and daughters were treated as possessions. Things to be bartered with by undisciplined and selfish fathers and brothers. This created a wave of sympathy and empathy for Katharine's plight. Although her brother wasn't totally unfeeling, he could find a way to be self-supportive and marry whom he chose. Yet, even that would leave the burden of their family's financial issues on Katharine.

Parents who make mistakes are normal, as I myself can attest to. But parents that make the mistakes and then expect their children to clean up the mess? Unfathomable and disturbing. I honestly did not see a way out for Katharine in this book. Her heart had found the man it could love. But poor and obscure Andrew wasn't the answer to her family's financial woes.

Ms. Dacus is a seasoned author and it shows. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Follow the Heart and will be reading more from her in the future. Scenic settings, great plot structure, and imperfect heroes and heroines? Yes please! I love how her characters were flawed. Self-sacrificing, yet flawed in such a way that made the reader care for them and wish they had a fighting chance.
Highly recommend.

[Caitlyn Santi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book by this author that I have read. I am not generally drawn to books with this type of storyline, but something about the description of this one intrigued me, I was not disappointed! I am not sure that I have ever read a book set in 1850s England, I found the setting and the fact that the Great Exhibition was a very big part of this story to be absolutely fascinating! I loved all the characters except Edith (But I think that you are probably intended to not like her very much!) This book held my interest throughout, it was never boring! Christopher is one of my all time favorite characters, he is just so awesome! :)
One thing I loved about this authors writing style is that while she does have her main characters notice their love interest's physical features, they don't for example, constantly think about the other's gorgeous eyes or attractive profile, I really don't like it when authors go a bit overboard with that, but such is not the case with this book, the author did it perfectly! 
This book is definitely a keeper, I definitely anticipate re reading it in the future! I highly recommend it, and I look forward to the next book in this series as well as reading some of the authors other books in the near future! :)



I recieved a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via CFBA in exchange for an honest review. The above is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate and her brother are sent to England to find wealthy spouses in order to save their father from financial ruin after his railroad investments failures . Two Americans related to a baronet being thrust into English society is bad enough, but then having to seek profitable marriages, rather than love, seemed untenable. Kate, who is older...pushing 27, wanting to marry someone she can respect and love, is being pursued by a man who can't compare to a man of a lower status who she could really see herself with.
I've read a number of books about daughters who are basically sold so her family can continue to live in the manner they'd always had. This one was done very well, and you can't help but feel for Kate and want her to find love. What I like about her is she's not perfect...she runs a gamut of emotions about the man who has set her sites on her. She inwardly feels annoyance about a variety of things she doesn't like about him, but still is quite civil, although bored. She gets frustrated with her brother at times, and at the gardener as well. No one is perfect and to have to read a whole book about perfect women who always keep calm is just so disappointing. I like her! She's real.
Good book, good characters and kept my interest. I'd recommend it!

[Holly (2 Kids and Tired) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the Ransome series and so when I saw a new book by Kaye Dacus, I was anxious to read it. Unfortunately, I didn't like it nearly as much as I did the Ransome series.

The book took awhile for me to get into and I finally had to force myself to finish it as I was frustrated more than enthralled with the story and its characters. I would like to read what happens in future stories because I hope to see Cousin Edith redeem herself, although I'm not sure it's possible and I don't think either of the next two books is about her. Kate and Christopher ultimately must decide what is more important, marrying for love or marrying for money because of familial obligation. I was surprised at how little The Great Exhibition actually figured into the story. I really liked the 4 main leads: Kate and Christopher and Andrew and Nora. I would have liked more detail about Christopher and Nora though. Perhaps all of them will make appearances in the future stories.

Overall, pleasant, but not one I would reread.

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book by Kaye Dacus I have a read and it was a cute,sweet read.The premise of the story is b Kate and her brother Christopher are going to England after their Father loses his fortune. Kate is 27 and already considered an old maid with no prospects in America, so in a last effort to save her family from poverty she and Christopher go visit their Mother's relatives.

Upon coming to England Kate meets handsome gardener of her Uncle's estate who shares the same passions,but can she disappoint her family and what will win out?

Overall I thought this book had well developed characters and I really liked the fact that Kate was a character you could relate to. Overall it was a good read.

[Lily Mulholland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from NetGalley and was filled with some trepidation before I read this story - some of the other NetGalley 'romance category' offings I've read have not been very good.

I am so pleased to say I really enjoyed this story! Well done Kaye Dacus in bringing together fascinating characters from across the Atlantic. The inner and outer conflict rings true through the entire novel as we follow Kate Dearing's tortured path to love.

This is the kind of romance novel I enjoy reading - and aspire to write.

Recommended for lovers of Little Women, Seven Little Australians and Downton Abbey.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book I picked up by Kaye Dacus. I enjoyed the characters and the time period. She has a style of writing all her own that sucks you in and makes her books a fast read. I loved meeting the "American cousins" and watching Kate try to find a husband with money and title to save her family.

Will she marry for money or marry for love is the real question? And are all Americans like Kate and her brother who want to marry for love or are we more like the "English Cousins" who are concerned with title and wealth above all else.

Great read and ready for the next by her.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read all of Ms. Dacus' books and have loved them all (I've wore out my first copies of Ransome's Honor and Ransome's Crossing). I was so looking forward to this one. I can normally read a book in about 3-4 hours but it took me a lot longer with this one. The beginning just dragged for me. It wasn't until I got about halfway that I couldn't put it down.

I really enjoyed the last half of the book and will be reading the next book cause I really want to see what happens with cousin Edith.