Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Heart of Warwickshire #1

Allerednic: A Regency Cinderella Tale--In Reverse

Rate this book
Lady Charlotte Eversley, heir of the Earl of Everston, has lived a charmed life. Wealthy, beautiful, and one day she will be a Countess in her own right. No mother has ever loved a daughter more. Her sisters admire and adore her, and of course, her father dotes on her. She is one of the most eligible ladies of the Season.

Mr. Jasper Seyton misses the country. Along with his trusted servant, Worley, he endures the delights of Town for one purpose. After three Seasons, he has little confidence in the so-called “Marriage Mart.”

They enjoy each other’s company, and her father approves. She knows he intends to propose. He knows that she will accept.

So where is she when he returns to Everston Hall, and why does she think there is no hope for happiness again?

286 pages, ebook

First published September 23, 2012

64 people are currently reading
396 people want to read

About the author

Chautona Havig

275 books1,833 followers
**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**

Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.

Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25

Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.

They’re for you.

When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.

Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.

And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”

Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.

But I do.

And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!

And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.

I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
103 (23%)
4 stars
118 (27%)
3 stars
132 (30%)
2 stars
59 (13%)
1 star
25 (5%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Kristen.
1,711 reviews47 followers
October 9, 2012
Most of this book I really, really liked. There were a few parts though, I thought were a little disjointed and did not flow smoothly. I loved the regency aspect to it. I felt like I was right there with the characters.

I think I would have enjoyed it better if it was not labeled a Cinderella tale in reverse. Being done with it now I see what the author was doing, but I think the title had me too focused on that aspect of it so I kept looking for the story within the story. I would have taken the side story of his valet out and put it in another book. I enjoyed it but it took too much time out of Charlotte & Jasper's story. While I agree with Ms. Havig's views of having Christianity be more than just a Sunday activity, I thought she just threw it in the story here and there, and it didn't flow with the book.

Overall though, I really did enjoy it. Take out some of the preaching, and a portion of the side story and it would have been a 5 star for me.

Moral Note: Squeaky clean
Profile Image for Emily Fauble.
147 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2013
2.5 stars. I think I gave this a lower rating mainly because I was really disappointed in it. I wasn't sure what to expect, but some sort of reverse Cinderella fairy-tale seemed promised. The book started out okay, placed in regency England and with a tone and feel not unlike that of Austen, but there the similarity ends.

While Austen's dialog is witty, the dialog here was rather boring. The characters were fine, but not nearly as full and rich as they could be. The comparison to Cinderella was weak and the conflict or crisis was sudden and unforeseen, but not in a clever twist way. It also presented itself too close to the end and was wrapped up too quickly and neatly to make for an interesting read. Most of the book was tedious thoughts and conversations of two young people trying to decide if the other had a perfect enough character to be a worthy marriage partner. This book could have been so much better, but instead fell flat.
Profile Image for Margaret Metz.
415 reviews9 followers
November 16, 2012
This had an authentic regency feel to it. The time spent describing fashion, colors, and that sort of thing reminded me of books written during the period.

I think the label "A Regency Cinderella Tale -- In Reverse" was distracting. You find yourself looking for those elements instead of just reading the book.

There wasn't a huge amount of conflict in the book - and her reaction to the one big bump in the road didn't seem to fit with the rest of her actions.

I still really enjoyed the book and the author's writing style.
Profile Image for Rosy Marr.
104 reviews4 followers
July 3, 2022
This book was so much fun! It seemed to go pretty slowly for a while, but I found myself really enjoying it nonetheless, especially the second half. Worley is definitely my favorite character! 
As for the "cinderella-ness of it", it was subtle enough that I completely forgot about it until I was about 80% through the book. I was glad it had originality, and not just your typical Cinderella story.
Also, that ending.. so sweet!!! ❤️
Profile Image for Paula Shreckhise.
1,531 reviews137 followers
May 14, 2023
Very clever Regency with a twist on the fairytale Cinderella. This time the damsel was destined to be a Countess. She did misplace her slipper-but I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. You will have to read it to find out why!
The hero was worthy. I liked the role reversal. Jasper could banter about Jane Austen and contemporary-to-the-time authors with Charlotte. I do love intellectual heroes!
With all the pomp of the Season and fabulous ball gowns, Almacks, ladies vying for wealthy and titled gentlemen, and country estates, this is an enjoyable story for Regency fans
*I purchased this Ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
868 reviews28 followers
January 9, 2019
It took me a long time to get into this story. I decided I'm really not interested in Regency romances! By the time I got about 75% of the way through, I was finally enjoying it, though, and I loved the ending. I liked the things Lady Charlotte learned about herself and God during the course of the story.
Profile Image for Jessica.
255 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2014
This is only the second of Havig's books that I've read. I thought it was a wonderfully sweet romance and I liked the few tie-ins that she paralleled with the original tale of Cinderella.

Allerednic, had sweet, clean romance, wonderful Jane Austen themes, and an interesting and backwards Cinderella story that had me intrigued - all things I was highly anticipating and love to read about.

The one and only complaint I have about it is just that there didn't seem to be much conflict. There was no evil step-mother (although there was a step-mother. But she wasn't evil and mean). And although there was one other contender for her heart, it seemed like he was pretty much written off right from the start. The only thing I could see that was awful about this second would be suitor was that he was a rich snob and treated the main female character like she was a child.

The story follows the main male and female characters. It's the typical falling in love regency romance. But they never really faced any road blocks until the last few chapters. Which was ridiculous. For so long, nothing major had happened. The romantic relationship progresses nicely with very few hiccups. Then, in a rush at the end, the main female character has this huge, pathetic moment of second guessing a man who is absolutely amazing, (another problem. Where were his supposed faults? He said he had some but never really shared any of them.) and then finding out this big secret about her past which wasn't even foreshadowed at all during the rest of the book. reading this moment in the book was like being on a calm sea and then all of a sudden being in the middle of a Gail. Hello, where did that come from? I still have whiplash weeks later. Basically, there was no conflict, and then so much all it once it was unnatural to the plotline and characters. And because there wasn't really any conflict during the rest of the book, it felt a bit dry.

I liked this book, it just didn't seem realistic. What kind of a courtship reaches almost engagement stage without any roadblocks? Unrealistic. And then, even more so, a book with very little conflict doesn't exactly keep you turning the page for more.

It was a nice book, but I wanted more. And the characters and their lives had potential to give me more. Which was why it was so disappointing. It all turns out the way you wanted in the end, but you had to travel through a desert of regency dances and etiquette and slow plotline/pacing before you reach the happily ever after.
Profile Image for Loraine.
3,450 reviews
July 21, 2016
SUMMARY: Lady Charlotte Eversley, heir of the Earl of Everston, has lived a charmed life. Wealthy, beautiful, and one day she will be a Countess in her own right. No mother has ever loved a daughter more. Her sisters admire and adore her, and of course, her father dotes on her. She is one of the most eligible ladies of the Season. Mr. Jasper Seyton misses the country. Along with his trusted servant, Worley, he endures the delights of Town for one purpose. After three Seasons, he has little confidence in the so-called “Marriage Mart.” They enjoy each other’s company, and her father approves. She knows he intends to propose. He knows that she will accept. So where is she when he returns to Everston Hall, and why does she think there is no hope for happiness again?

Allerednic: Cinderella–reversed.

REVIEW: This a charming Regency romance with a creative reversal of the Cinderalla story. It is a heart warming, adult fairy tale that captured me from start to finish. Havig makes the Regency period come to life with all its intricacies, subtleties, and proper requirements. The characters were all very likeable. I especially enjoyed Charlotte as she learns to lean on God and be more confident in her own wisdom rather than others. The relationship between her and Jasper developed nicely as each explored their feeling for the other. The subplot between Worley and Jane was delightful. Finally, Havig's delightful ending was perfect for a fairy tale!

FAVORITE QUOTES: "I have learned something about myself this morning. You are correct. It is both a good thing--when I truly defer to a wiser opinion--and a bad thing--when I use someone else's opinion to avoid seriously considering a topic."
Profile Image for Miriam.
398 reviews8 followers
October 3, 2012
I really enjoyed this backwards Cinderella story. Probably my favorite book by Ms. Havig to date. And to think this was written on a dare!
Profile Image for Emma.
79 reviews26 followers
October 31, 2012
I got this book free on Amazon. It's so amazing! It's clean, and it is so fun! I would absolutely recommend this book!
1,887 reviews
May 8, 2017
Chautona Havig has written another amazing story in this book. Lady Charlotte Eversley is a charming young lady who has been blessed with a wonderful father, loving stepmother and two charming younger stepsisters. She finds a charming man whom she thinks she would like to marry. There is a story within a story that looks at her maid and his servant. The descriptions of places, events and clothing kept my interest. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would love to read more about the characters in this story.
89 reviews
October 14, 2021
I agree that the story moves slowly but I like that far better than people rushing headlong into romance. They took the time to get to know each other, realizing that who the person is is far more important than what they look like, their status and their possessions. The characters were all a little too sweet and good and beautiful except for the vicar and his daughters which I found annoying. My favorite character was Jane and the example of how love can make the most plain person beautiful. I've seen it in real life. I would like more like that.

Profile Image for Marguerite Gray.
Author 24 books615 followers
April 21, 2021
I enjoyed sitting for a while with Charlotte's fairytale family and lifestyle. As with any fairytale, the road has its bumps and pitfalls. I wondered if Charlotte would survive unscathed or be forced to change her path?
Profile Image for Amy Meyers.
859 reviews27 followers
March 7, 2022
2.5 stars. There are issues with consistency, credibility, and a need for grammatical editing of incorrect word choices at times in this, but overall a fun fluff read. It felt like Lori Wick meets Jane Austen in writing style.
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,001 reviews
October 29, 2017
This was very creative with a sweet romance. Very enjoyable.
Profile Image for Rachel Bennett.
111 reviews
August 18, 2018
Fun twist on a classic

Chautona does a nice job in a new (for her) genre. Clean, fun, and well-written. Keep up the good work!
94 reviews
November 30, 2019
A Regency Cinderella Tale

Surprised me, at the end. Great easy read, some over the top repeats. Love the ending, and encouragement readings. Thank you
Profile Image for Sherry.
238 reviews7 followers
January 7, 2022
I truly enjoyed this story
The details were very vivid, and I found myself immersed and not wanting to leave
680 reviews
September 19, 2023
A tale to treasure

I love this kind of story. A handsome fellow and a confident lady. This romance was well written and had all the feels. I just really enjoy Chautona's writings.
2,339 reviews26 followers
February 9, 2024
Interesting story with good characters. I was rooting for Charlotte and Jasper throughout, and loved how they each interacted with their siblings. And I liked the secondary romance between servants very much. I thought that after Charlotte overheard a conversation between her godmother and father, that she should have talked about it with her father first instead of running away and not telling anyone where she was going. The ending was good.
132 reviews
May 5, 2014
Allerednic
By Chautona Havig
Jasper Seyton is engaged in his third Season in London. He is bored with the lack of conversational skills of the young ladies ye meets. So much so that he refuses to have his two sisters debut until he feels they can present themselves well in the art of conversation. Two and a half months into his third Season he meets Lady Charlotte Eversley at a ball. He is immediately attracted to her because she is so adept at conversation and logical thought.
Returning from the ball Charlotte and her step-mother Judith Eversley give Lord Everston a favorable report on the ball, ending with comments about the meeting of Mr. Jasper Seyton. Lord Everston remarks that he will investigate the young man, and if he meets the Earl’s approval he will be invited to dinner.
As the Season progresses, Jasper takes every opportunity to see Charlotte. She, in turn, makes every effort to make the best impression she can every time they meet. Both seek to maintain a proper equilibrium in their feelings and behavior. Each hoping the other returns their regard.
After the Season ends Jasper is asked to visit Everston Hall for a few weeks to hunt with Lord Everston, but also as a way for he and Lady Charlotte to get to know each other better.
As time progresses they get to know each other and find they have a true affection for each other. However, things happen that make it appear that their union is not to be.
This is a delightfully written tale of Regency England. It is a warm romance with enough trouble thrown in to keep it interesting. A well-plot and quite a cast of characters make it a joy to read.
14 reviews
July 26, 2013
I enjoy good regency romance. I was impressed with this author's well researched attempt to line her novel up with period pieces. Lady Charlotte enters the "season" in London like many characters in regency novels. She and the charming man she grows attached to seem to have an easy road paved towards marriage. But, separation physically from London, accented by minimal communication allow minds and hearts to wander and doubt, risking their relationship never seeing it's fruition. Both struggle with thoughts and doubts that could easily be cleared up with straightforward communication, but then it wouldn't be a regency novel. But, I love that this book has the added component of them both recognizing a need to mature in their spiritual grounding and their security in their person. Real conversation does happen which is refreshing. I just enjoyed the characters and wanted to see them through their journey.
Profile Image for Brenda.
2 reviews
October 27, 2012
I feel the author has a lovely writing style. At the start, I thought I was going to love the book. But, as others have mentioned, there truly was no action. It felt like an outline for a potentially entertaining read. There were characters that appeared to be set up as challenge to the main characters, but then nothing happened. Also, the first half of the book talked so often about the colors pink vs Prussian blue, that it actually grew quite annoying and made me wonder ...why?? After re-reading a few reviews I decided to change my expectations and except that is was going to be a calm, uneventful journey. With that in mind, I continued on to finish the book as the main characters were very likeable so I enjoyed spending a little time with them. I do wish she had taken the opportunities with the other characters and the potential situations that could have developed with them.
Profile Image for Rachel.
432 reviews4 followers
October 14, 2012
If you are looking for a book in which basically nothing happens, this is it. Generally a story has a conflict followed by resolution. This book began with the resolution and forgot to ever develop a conflict. There were two very minor misunderstanding that resulted in almost no problems other than a discussion inside the characters head. Don't get me wrong I love a story in which the characters misunrstand each other and it leads to all sorts of hijinx,, but this is not that. This is just dull.
oh, also, the Cinderella connection is way too contrived for me.
1,709 reviews
September 26, 2013
This was an enjoyable enough book but it seemed to me to be meant for younger readers, specifically teen girls. I love a good romance but the characters seemed to be especially superficial. They were likeable but so much emphasis on dances, balls, dresses, etc got a bit tiring. Also, Charlotte seemed very young in her thinking. If you like a quick read based in the regency period in England with happy endings, you will like this book. If you are looking for something more, you may be disappointed.
Profile Image for Sarah.
159 reviews4 followers
October 23, 2012
This was a good book. The story was very slow though. There really wasn't anything to keep your interest going until the last 20% of the book. It was nice and pleasant, there wasn't any drama or suspense. I even liked the servant's romance more than the main characters! I also didn't get the reverse Cinderella thing until the end of the book, even then I don't think calling it a reverse Cinderella story fits the story.
2,017 reviews57 followers
October 31, 2012
It started with great promise, which it ultimately failed to fulfill. I saw too many echoes of Austen - though maybe they were deliberate - and then a couple of places just threw me out completely as I wondered if that could ever really happen.

Like another reviewer, I think I would have enjoyed it more without the Cinderella reference up front; I spent too much time looking for the story within the story, and when it finally came it was so short I almost blinked and missed it.
520 reviews2 followers
October 10, 2012
I thought this was a more coherant story than the series I just finished by Chautona Havig. It was a very sweet story. A couple tiny complaints: I thought the ending was okay, but that the tone wasn't quite right. Also, being a Jane Austen fan, I'm pretty sure Jane Austen was not known by name in her lifetime. (Grade: "B-".)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.