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Brides of Redemption #1
Return of the Viscount
Her marriage of convenience seems far too convenient...
Desperation drove Cecilia Mallory to seek a union with a stranger—one who would wed her sight unseen and grant her full access to her inheritance with no expectations whatsoever. She anticipated, perhaps, an older, undesirable, equally desperate husband—never the young, vibrant, and devastatingly attractive man who answered her call. What could such a man really be after?
Unknown to Cecilia, Viscount Michael Blackthorne, a soldier and gentleman, owes a debt of honor to Lady Cecilia's father, and granting her unusual request to wed seemed a worthy way to repay it. But an unseen threat perilously close at hand is convincing Michael that his true responsibility is to protect the beautiful, warm-hearted lady he has married...the woman he is unexpectedly coming to love.
Desperation drove Cecilia Mallory to seek a union with a stranger—one who would wed her sight unseen and grant her full access to her inheritance with no expectations whatsoever. She anticipated, perhaps, an older, undesirable, equally desperate husband—never the young, vibrant, and devastatingly attractive man who answered her call. What could such a man really be after?
Unknown to Cecilia, Viscount Michael Blackthorne, a soldier and gentleman, owes a debt of honor to Lady Cecilia's father, and granting her unusual request to wed seemed a worthy way to repay it. But an unseen threat perilously close at hand is convincing Michael that his true responsibility is to protect the beautiful, warm-hearted lady he has married...the woman he is unexpectedly coming to love.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2012
93 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Gayle Callen
87 books521 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Gayle Callen writes historical romances for Avon Books. Her twenty-second novel, The Wrong Bride, was published in November 2015.
Gayle’s novels have won the Holt Medallion, the Laurel Wreath Award, the Booksellers’ Best Award, and finaled in the National Readers Choice Awards. She was a nominee for RT Book Reviews Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Award. Her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She also writes the contemporary romances as Emma Cane.
Gayle resides in central New York with her husband. Now that her three children are grown, she has time to read, sing, and delve too deeply into historical research. A past President of the Central New York Romance Writers, she is also a member of Romance Writers of America and Novelists Inc. Visit her website at http://www.gaylecallen.com
Gayle’s novels have won the Holt Medallion, the Laurel Wreath Award, the Booksellers’ Best Award, and finaled in the National Readers Choice Awards. She was a nominee for RT Book Reviews Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Award. Her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She also writes the contemporary romances as Emma Cane.
Gayle resides in central New York with her husband. Now that her three children are grown, she has time to read, sing, and delve too deeply into historical research. A past President of the Central New York Romance Writers, she is also a member of Romance Writers of America and Novelists Inc. Visit her website at http://www.gaylecallen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
July 10, 2012
Rating: C+ ... Heat: Warm
It all starts with a letter. Cecilia Mallory receives a letter from Sergeant Blackthorne with condolences on the loss of her father—who was Blackthorne's fellow comrade-at-arms and mentor. From there they spend nearly two years corresponding, sharing their lives with each other. Then, after a few months of no letters from Cecilia, Michael finally hears from her. That letter changes both of their lives.
Cecilia needs access to her inheritance, for the money itself and for the freedom from a guardian. She see's Michael as the solution. A marriage of convenience, performed by proxy, with a man she will never meet in person. And it may have played out that way, if Michael had not been injured and sent home to recover.
And Cecilia does not deal with his arrival very well. At all. Throughout the story, she is headstrong and stubborn in regards to anything that has to do with her husband. To an unreasonable degree. I can appreciate her independence and her strength in managing her family's estate...
But as the story progressed, Cecilia became continually less likable. Almost to the point of coldness or cruelty. I can understand guarding one's heart, but it really went on too long and to too great of lengths.
She nodded, hoping that making the offer would help her feel better about what she owed him and his family. And also, she almost hoped the whole conversation would put him in a bad mood.
Michael does nothing to deserve such thoughts. Such treatment. From the very first, he is protective and considerate with Cecilia. He gives her time and patience and space. Though he is guilt-ridden about her father, and decisions made or not made on the battlefield, even though he is injured and often in pain... He consistently put Cecilia first.
While Cecilia puts everyone but Michael first. Most notably her brother, who I can only classify as exasperating. He had his moments, but for the most part was simply immature and detached. Even once his issues were revealed, I couldn't be made sympathetic. I don't care that he felt guilt and remorse... It isn't a redeemable act.
I believe this is a strong case of simply not caring, at all, for the characters (except for Michael). By 60% in, I was at my limit with Cecilia and her brother. It took way too long for their characters to grow. Cecilia in particular didn't change till nearly the end of the book... and by the last few pages became nearly unrecognizable to the character portrayed most of the book.
I enjoyed Miz Callen's writing, the talent behind it, and her way with words. I enjoyed the first half quite a lot... but the second half left much to be desired and, unfortunately, dragged the book down.
Favorite Quote:
“It doesn’t mean you’ve decided anything about our marriage,” he continued. “But how will you know what we can share if you don’t try the occassional kiss?”
“Share?” She almost choked on a laugh.
“That sounds…too gentle for”—she gestured toward him with a fluttering hand—“that.”
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
It all starts with a letter. Cecilia Mallory receives a letter from Sergeant Blackthorne with condolences on the loss of her father—who was Blackthorne's fellow comrade-at-arms and mentor. From there they spend nearly two years corresponding, sharing their lives with each other. Then, after a few months of no letters from Cecilia, Michael finally hears from her. That letter changes both of their lives.
Cecilia needs access to her inheritance, for the money itself and for the freedom from a guardian. She see's Michael as the solution. A marriage of convenience, performed by proxy, with a man she will never meet in person. And it may have played out that way, if Michael had not been injured and sent home to recover.
And Cecilia does not deal with his arrival very well. At all. Throughout the story, she is headstrong and stubborn in regards to anything that has to do with her husband. To an unreasonable degree. I can appreciate her independence and her strength in managing her family's estate...
But as the story progressed, Cecilia became continually less likable. Almost to the point of coldness or cruelty. I can understand guarding one's heart, but it really went on too long and to too great of lengths.
She nodded, hoping that making the offer would help her feel better about what she owed him and his family. And also, she almost hoped the whole conversation would put him in a bad mood.
Michael does nothing to deserve such thoughts. Such treatment. From the very first, he is protective and considerate with Cecilia. He gives her time and patience and space. Though he is guilt-ridden about her father, and decisions made or not made on the battlefield, even though he is injured and often in pain... He consistently put Cecilia first.
While Cecilia puts everyone but Michael first. Most notably her brother, who I can only classify as exasperating. He had his moments, but for the most part was simply immature and detached. Even once his issues were revealed, I couldn't be made sympathetic. I don't care that he felt guilt and remorse... It isn't a redeemable act.
I believe this is a strong case of simply not caring, at all, for the characters (except for Michael). By 60% in, I was at my limit with Cecilia and her brother. It took way too long for their characters to grow. Cecilia in particular didn't change till nearly the end of the book... and by the last few pages became nearly unrecognizable to the character portrayed most of the book.
I enjoyed Miz Callen's writing, the talent behind it, and her way with words. I enjoyed the first half quite a lot... but the second half left much to be desired and, unfortunately, dragged the book down.
Favorite Quote:
“It doesn’t mean you’ve decided anything about our marriage,” he continued. “But how will you know what we can share if you don’t try the occassional kiss?”
“Share?” She almost choked on a laugh.
“That sounds…too gentle for”—she gestured toward him with a fluttering hand—“that.”
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
March 29, 2023
BOOK 13 of my 2023 Valentine reading rush where I read romance books with men on the cover and a color of the rainbow.
featured color: red
Way too late for Valentine's, but here am I.
Meh. Not bad, but not that good either. I love the first part where the hero and heroine are exchanging correspondence. One's a soldier in India, and the other one is a lady in England. Then the marriage of convenience comes in because it's the only way to secure the heroine's fortune. She's worried about the guardianship that his alcoholic brother provides, so he has to marry the man she knows through letters, who coincidentally, is her father's friend.
The heroine experiences several threats to her safety, and that's the main meat of the story. The hero, although limping in a cane, protects the heroine and tries to identify who's responsible for these attempts. And of course, with all the forced proximity, the stares, etc... you know what happens—they fall in love. It's just that the chemistry is weak between the leads, the dialogue's lame, and ultimately I don't understand why they would like each other aside from they're in the same house and work on the same case. I don't know, I just couldn't feel it.
featured color: red
Way too late for Valentine's, but here am I.
Meh. Not bad, but not that good either. I love the first part where the hero and heroine are exchanging correspondence. One's a soldier in India, and the other one is a lady in England. Then the marriage of convenience comes in because it's the only way to secure the heroine's fortune. She's worried about the guardianship that his alcoholic brother provides, so he has to marry the man she knows through letters, who coincidentally, is her father's friend.
The heroine experiences several threats to her safety, and that's the main meat of the story. The hero, although limping in a cane, protects the heroine and tries to identify who's responsible for these attempts. And of course, with all the forced proximity, the stares, etc... you know what happens—they fall in love. It's just that the chemistry is weak between the leads, the dialogue's lame, and ultimately I don't understand why they would like each other aside from they're in the same house and work on the same case. I don't know, I just couldn't feel it.
July 11, 2013
Way to spoil a decent story in the last chapter Miss Callen!
September 7, 2012
I liked the overall tone of this story, although I wasn't really convinced by the mystery sub-plot or its resolution. I thought the author had built up a wonderful relationship between Cecilia and Michael, based on an undercurrent of mutual trust and caring (despite the odd wobble!) - so that I didn't actually want to have to divert my attention from it. I could quite happily have read a story about how Michael - who was so beautifully sensitive to Cecilia's needs and moods - gradually and quietly pursued her and eventually won her because that - for me - is the most important thing in a romance novel, seeing the protagonists gradually fall for each other.
There were times when I got a bit angry with Cecilia and her constant refusal to see what she had right in front of her, and I did find her willingness to travel back to India rather a sudden turnabout, seeing she'd spent most of the novel insisting she would never return there.
I think there could have been a bit more made of the reform of the wastrel brother; I felt that we'd been a bit left hanging and had to hope that his admission of guilt would be enough to make him into a better man.
All in all though, I did enjoy the book. I thought the two principal characters were very well drawn and that the central romance worked very well.
There were times when I got a bit angry with Cecilia and her constant refusal to see what she had right in front of her, and I did find her willingness to travel back to India rather a sudden turnabout, seeing she'd spent most of the novel insisting she would never return there.
I think there could have been a bit more made of the reform of the wastrel brother; I felt that we'd been a bit left hanging and had to hope that his admission of guilt would be enough to make him into a better man.
All in all though, I did enjoy the book. I thought the two principal characters were very well drawn and that the central romance worked very well.
December 10, 2012
Lady Celia Mallory exchanged a few letters with Sergeant Michael Blackthorne after her father's battlefield death. When she needs her independence from her guardians, and access to her substantial inheritance, she asks him a great favor.
After all, he's an old sod like her da, and a career soldier, so it's not like he'll come claim his marital rights or anything. He even agrees to let her keep her money—no dowry or anything. What a deal, until…
Viscount Michael Blackthorne is decidedly NOT an old sod. And he does intend to claim his marital rights, tho he's darned civilized about it. Meanwhile, someone starts trying to kill Celia…
Good read. I saw the mystery's solution—and the twist—coming early on, but it played out well.
After all, he's an old sod like her da, and a career soldier, so it's not like he'll come claim his marital rights or anything. He even agrees to let her keep her money—no dowry or anything. What a deal, until…
Viscount Michael Blackthorne is decidedly NOT an old sod. And he does intend to claim his marital rights, tho he's darned civilized about it. Meanwhile, someone starts trying to kill Celia…
Good read. I saw the mystery's solution—and the twist—coming early on, but it played out well.
August 27, 2025
Return of the Viscount is one of those delightful stories where the hero has to convince his own wife to fall in love with him, and I absolutely loved it! My copie is actually a re-release (2/09/2025), and I’m so happy I had the chance to read it.
Michael is a soldier stationed in India, and Cecilia is the daughter of one of Michael’s commanders (if I remember correctly, my memory isn’t the best!). Their connection begins with a letter. Michael writes to inform Cecilia that her father has died. From there, the two start exchanging letters, and over time, Cecilia begins to trust him. Eventually, she asks Michael to marry her because she doesn’t want to remain under her guardian’s control.
Like any good soldier-hero, Michael agrees - who could possibly say no to a damsel in distress? After their marriage, Cecilia proves to be an independent and capable woman, helping her younger brother step into his role as Earl, while Michael continues his duties in India. Everything changes when Michael is injured and returns to England, finally deciding it’s time to visit his wife.
I have to admit, I’m a huge fan of the “it all started with a letter” trope, and this story delivered it beautifully. But beyond the romance, there’s also a gripping mystery, because someone is trying to kill Cecilia. Could it be Michael? Or is there something more sinister at play? I also really appreciated that the conclusion to the mystery wasn’t obvious at all, at least not for me, it surprised me, which made the story even more enjoyable.
This book gave me everything I wanted: romance, intrigue, and a dash of suspense. I highly recommend it, seriously! 😁
Michael is a soldier stationed in India, and Cecilia is the daughter of one of Michael’s commanders (if I remember correctly, my memory isn’t the best!). Their connection begins with a letter. Michael writes to inform Cecilia that her father has died. From there, the two start exchanging letters, and over time, Cecilia begins to trust him. Eventually, she asks Michael to marry her because she doesn’t want to remain under her guardian’s control.
Like any good soldier-hero, Michael agrees - who could possibly say no to a damsel in distress? After their marriage, Cecilia proves to be an independent and capable woman, helping her younger brother step into his role as Earl, while Michael continues his duties in India. Everything changes when Michael is injured and returns to England, finally deciding it’s time to visit his wife.
I have to admit, I’m a huge fan of the “it all started with a letter” trope, and this story delivered it beautifully. But beyond the romance, there’s also a gripping mystery, because someone is trying to kill Cecilia. Could it be Michael? Or is there something more sinister at play? I also really appreciated that the conclusion to the mystery wasn’t obvious at all, at least not for me, it surprised me, which made the story even more enjoyable.
This book gave me everything I wanted: romance, intrigue, and a dash of suspense. I highly recommend it, seriously! 😁
July 31, 2021
TW: death of family members (before events of book), death of a close friend (drowning), attempted sexual assault, excessive drinking, mention of rape, attempted murder
SPOILERS BELOW
For the first 340 pages I thought okay this is a 3 star read, not a lot of smut but okay whatever. Then we get to page 349 where we find out that Oliver had raped a girl when he was 17 and got her with child "She didn't want me from the beginning. I made certain she felt...she had no choice.". And although Cecilia is horrified by that fact at first, she still chooses to stand by him, hope he becomes a better person, and wants them all to go to talk to the person he raped. He got away with a slap on the wrist and everything because he "was seventeen and stupid." No. Just no.
After I read that, the rest of the book left a sour taste in my mouth. I just can't. I'm now worried about reading the second book in this series because I absolutely do not want to see Oliver again.
SPOILERS BELOW
For the first 340 pages I thought okay this is a 3 star read, not a lot of smut but okay whatever. Then we get to page 349 where we find out that Oliver had raped a girl when he was 17 and got her with child "She didn't want me from the beginning. I made certain she felt...she had no choice.". And although Cecilia is horrified by that fact at first, she still chooses to stand by him, hope he becomes a better person, and wants them all to go to talk to the person he raped. He got away with a slap on the wrist and everything because he "was seventeen and stupid." No. Just no.
After I read that, the rest of the book left a sour taste in my mouth. I just can't. I'm now worried about reading the second book in this series because I absolutely do not want to see Oliver again.
July 23, 2020
My thoughts are muddled. Mixed feelings about reading Britain’s colonial glories aside, I feel like I wasted my time reading this with false expectations. It was more in the vein of an Agatha Christie novel than a strict “romance”. Nothing was settled at the end and I’m not convinced they’d end up happily ever after. The conclusion just left me feeling a sense of dissatisfaction and disgust. And, the persistent theme of “boys will be boys” 🙄. I’m angry that I invested so much time.
The hero was competence and kindness personified; he deserved an equally amazing heroine.
The hero was competence and kindness personified; he deserved an equally amazing heroine.
January 31, 2022
A szerelmi szál nagyon gyenge, a nyomozósdi legalább érdekes volt, annak ellenére, hogy a merénylő személye számomra nem volt meglepő.
March 1, 2018
Ik heb de Nederlandstalige uitgave gelezen : Echtgenoot op bezoek - Candlelight Historische roman 1069
Dit verhaal is een soort van victoriaans misdaad verhaal . Wie probeert Cecilia te vermoorden en waarom ? Ik vond het spannend en het wie en waarom was voor mij echt een verrassing .
Dit verhaal is een soort van victoriaans misdaad verhaal . Wie probeert Cecilia te vermoorden en waarom ? Ik vond het spannend en het wie en waarom was voor mij echt een verrassing .
September 27, 2012
I was excited to read this book. The premise of being married in abstention appealed to me, then to have one's spouse show up at one's door seemed like a good setting for lots of romance set-up. However, there was just something about this book that just didn't get the job done for me. First, the hero that returns is a good egg. Callen could have made him come in and try to take over his wife's life, and be a real jerk. But he didn't. He was patient and kind, and really was good to his wife. I had problems with the heroine. She was wound so tight that I'm surprised she had the courage to get married at all. The hero's extended family made an appearance, but I was unsatisfied with how it played out. I would think that if a beloved son and brother returned from a long military engage, there would have been a bit more visiting and fan fare before the extended family took themselves off. Then there was a surprising lack of PTSD with the hero. While this theme hasn't been a big part of romance novels in the past, with all the new research and our own modern warriors coming back from the battlefield, we now know that this is a common part of soldiering. How it was overlooked was astounding.
The biggest problem with this book was the pacing. There was some action in the form of death threats, and while we didn't know who did it, the person that ended up being the culprit was not even a suspect. Heck, there were so many people walking around in the form of suspects, I didn't know who to think as a reader. The mystery, and the HEA came to light in about 7 pages. I was so disappointed with the conclusion of this book. It wrapped up too neatly and I wanted to throw it across the room.
The biggest problem with this book was the pacing. There was some action in the form of death threats, and while we didn't know who did it, the person that ended up being the culprit was not even a suspect. Heck, there were so many people walking around in the form of suspects, I didn't know who to think as a reader. The mystery, and the HEA came to light in about 7 pages. I was so disappointed with the conclusion of this book. It wrapped up too neatly and I wanted to throw it across the room.
January 23, 2013
As book blurbs go, the above one is just perfect in setting up this story of redemption, respect and love.
Ms. Callen gave a wonderful characterization of two very strong people who knew what they wanted out of life very early on in their lives. Both had carried much of the baggage passed on to them from their respective parents and were determined never to repeat the mistakes their parents made, and in doing so made sure to stay away from situations that would have them merry.
At eighteen, Lord Michael Blackthorne enlisted in the army and was shipped out to India because his father had insisted he marry for the wrong reasons. Going against the wishes of the man he had no respect for, young Michael vowed to advance himself not by purchasing his commission but by hard work and sheer determination to prove to his family that he is a man of honor. While there he meets our heroine’s father who takes him under his wing and teaches him to become that man.
Cecilia Mallory had a good childhood even though it was visited with some tragedy that had profoundly altered the course of her life. As a very impressionable girl, she was forced by her mother to do some things that made her ....for the rest of my review, I thank you so much for popping over to b2b.....
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
*Book provided by AVON through EDELWEISS.
Ms. Callen gave a wonderful characterization of two very strong people who knew what they wanted out of life very early on in their lives. Both had carried much of the baggage passed on to them from their respective parents and were determined never to repeat the mistakes their parents made, and in doing so made sure to stay away from situations that would have them merry.
At eighteen, Lord Michael Blackthorne enlisted in the army and was shipped out to India because his father had insisted he marry for the wrong reasons. Going against the wishes of the man he had no respect for, young Michael vowed to advance himself not by purchasing his commission but by hard work and sheer determination to prove to his family that he is a man of honor. While there he meets our heroine’s father who takes him under his wing and teaches him to become that man.
Cecilia Mallory had a good childhood even though it was visited with some tragedy that had profoundly altered the course of her life. As a very impressionable girl, she was forced by her mother to do some things that made her ....for the rest of my review, I thank you so much for popping over to b2b.....
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
*Book provided by AVON through EDELWEISS.
December 30, 2022
Cecilia and Michael became penpals and knew each other through Cecilia’s father, who died in a war. Cecilia requested that Michael marry her in order for her to be free of a guardian and have access to her funds. Michael accepted it to repay Cecilia’s father. One day, Michael arrived at her house without a notice, and contrary to Cecilia’s expectation, he was quite handsome. His superiors knew about his marriage and let him take a break since he had injured his leg. The two of them get to know each other as the days pass and investigate who is trying to kill Cecilia and how to make Appertan a proper lord.
I liked Michael’s personality since he is understanding and tries to help Cecilia without expecting reward. He doesn’t rush things and does his duty as a husband diligently. I say that they make a perfect couple. One is a soldier who can protect her, while the other knows how to manage things.
I liked Michael’s personality since he is understanding and tries to help Cecilia without expecting reward. He doesn’t rush things and does his duty as a husband diligently. I say that they make a perfect couple. One is a soldier who can protect her, while the other knows how to manage things.
January 23, 2013
Good story. Heroine marries father's sergeant by proxy, then he comes back from India & turns out to be a viscount. And younger than she thought. I did have a problem with this Lord joining the army as an enlisted man to make money to support his estate. Soldiers--even officers didn't make that much money. There were a couple of other things in the history that bothered me, but, I wasn't quite sure of the date of the story, or of the date of the change-- like when the British army switched to seniority for promotion from purchase, that sort of thing. If they had trains for shipping, I'm pretty positive they had gone to seniority... but that's minor. Overall, I enjoyed the story. Nice little mystery included. Rather complex conflicts. Good read.
May 7, 2025
2/2.5 Stars
This story had a bit of a dreary tone tbh, and took a bit for me to truly feel invested because of it.
I found the the thoughts of both the MCs frustrating for much of the story, but particularly the FMC Cecilia. While I understood her need to cling to what family she had left and her need for control due to her previous trauma and loss, I couldn't help but find her way of thinking annoying. I kept wondering when she'd finally see beyond her own little bubble, and while she eventually does and begins to understand what the MMC Michael had told her from his perspective. It didn't make it any less trying to like her.
And while I did like both MCs, I didn't love Cecilia. I did like Michael a lot, I loved how he viewed Cecilia and how he handled the tough situations life had thrown at him. He was certainly a very steady and decisive man, and I think Cecilia needed that sort presence in her life. Michael was patient, understanding and made it impossible for Cecilia to simply set him aside.
I didn't like Cecilia's brother Oliver. Yes, he still has some maturing to do but he didn't win me over at all. And then to learn what horrible act he did to a house maid when he was seventeen? Nope. I did not like how it was made out to be as if what he did was okay because he felt guilty about it and eventually made amends at the end of the book. Just absolutely not ok imo.
I also found the pacing entirely frustrating. From the moment Michael arrives and him and Cecilia meet officially it felt like everything was so slow. And I think by the end Michael had only been home for. a month at most? If it was longer than that I never got that feeling.
The mystery with who was out to harm Cecilia was a bit intriguing but I was almost entirely sure who was to blame about half way through and I was correct. More so their motives was what needed to be revealed. Ultimately it was an interesting turn but ultimately due to the "slow slow then fast quick hurry the story is ending!" pacing we wrapped up the mystery plot AND the unanswered questions and feelings between Michael and Cecilia in the final chapter. That was massively disappointing. There should have been a chapter dedicated for their discussion of the future alone and maybe an epilogue at least. It felt far too rushed.
This story had a bit of a dreary tone tbh, and took a bit for me to truly feel invested because of it.
I found the the thoughts of both the MCs frustrating for much of the story, but particularly the FMC Cecilia. While I understood her need to cling to what family she had left and her need for control due to her previous trauma and loss, I couldn't help but find her way of thinking annoying. I kept wondering when she'd finally see beyond her own little bubble, and while she eventually does and begins to understand what the MMC Michael had told her from his perspective. It didn't make it any less trying to like her.
And while I did like both MCs, I didn't love Cecilia. I did like Michael a lot, I loved how he viewed Cecilia and how he handled the tough situations life had thrown at him. He was certainly a very steady and decisive man, and I think Cecilia needed that sort presence in her life. Michael was patient, understanding and made it impossible for Cecilia to simply set him aside.
I didn't like Cecilia's brother Oliver. Yes, he still has some maturing to do but he didn't win me over at all. And then to learn what horrible act he did to a house maid when he was seventeen? Nope. I did not like how it was made out to be as if what he did was okay because he felt guilty about it and eventually made amends at the end of the book. Just absolutely not ok imo.
I also found the pacing entirely frustrating. From the moment Michael arrives and him and Cecilia meet officially it felt like everything was so slow. And I think by the end Michael had only been home for. a month at most? If it was longer than that I never got that feeling.
The mystery with who was out to harm Cecilia was a bit intriguing but I was almost entirely sure who was to blame about half way through and I was correct. More so their motives was what needed to be revealed. Ultimately it was an interesting turn but ultimately due to the "slow slow then fast quick hurry the story is ending!" pacing we wrapped up the mystery plot AND the unanswered questions and feelings between Michael and Cecilia in the final chapter. That was massively disappointing. There should have been a chapter dedicated for their discussion of the future alone and maybe an epilogue at least. It felt far too rushed.
September 2, 2025
This story combines a love story with a mystery: someone is trying to kill our heroine, but who can it be? Woven throughout the story, are the losses that all the families have endured, snd how various members have coped—or not!—with that loss. Therefore, grief gives depth to this story that could so easily have been just a superficial love story, wrapped around a mystery.
Our Hero, Michael, a Sargent in Her Majesty’s service in the 1830’s - 1840’s, is a “manly man”. He looks out for his men in India, his family back home in England, and the children of his greatly respected commander after that man’s untimely death. There is depth to this man, and the reader comes to respect him as his character is revealed.
Cecelia is the daughter of his beloved commander, with whom he begins a correspondence after the commander’s death. As the older sister, she has been tasked by her father to care for her younger brother who is nearing his majority, but acting much younger. She struggles with how to let him take charge of his earldom, while managing it herself. How can she extricate herself from this situation?
I found myself pulled into the story from the beginning, enjoying the letters back and forth between Michael and Cecelia, and the surprise that awaited each of them when they finally meet! It is at this point that the mysterious attempts on Cecelia begin. The author does a good job of presenting possible suspects. But I never saw it coming when the perpetrator is revealed!
This book leaves a few threads that can be picked up to create a few more stories, which I certainly intend to read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Our Hero, Michael, a Sargent in Her Majesty’s service in the 1830’s - 1840’s, is a “manly man”. He looks out for his men in India, his family back home in England, and the children of his greatly respected commander after that man’s untimely death. There is depth to this man, and the reader comes to respect him as his character is revealed.
Cecelia is the daughter of his beloved commander, with whom he begins a correspondence after the commander’s death. As the older sister, she has been tasked by her father to care for her younger brother who is nearing his majority, but acting much younger. She struggles with how to let him take charge of his earldom, while managing it herself. How can she extricate herself from this situation?
I found myself pulled into the story from the beginning, enjoying the letters back and forth between Michael and Cecelia, and the surprise that awaited each of them when they finally meet! It is at this point that the mysterious attempts on Cecelia begin. The author does a good job of presenting possible suspects. But I never saw it coming when the perpetrator is revealed!
This book leaves a few threads that can be picked up to create a few more stories, which I certainly intend to read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2025
Mail Order Groom
Lady Cecilia Mallory proposes a marriage by proxy through letters to Sergeant Michael Blackthorne, a calvary man stationed in Bombay, India. His commanding officer, now deceased, was Cecilia’s father. Her reasons for a sight unseen marriage are to secure her inheritance, to continue assisting her brother with estate matters, and to avoid being controlled by a typical husband of the ton. Planning on remaining in India, Michael agrees out of duty and guilt regarding her father’s demise.
An injury necessitates Michael’s return to London…to his new home with Cecilia, temporarily. Arriving unannounced, Michael is pleasantly surprised by his bride’s appearance, thinking that only a plain woman without suitors would propose via post. Cecilia is also surprised, but she was expecting a short marriage with a doddering older man, not a tall young muscular soldier.
Despite marriage this is a very slow burn romance. The biggest obstacle to their intimacy is Cecilia’s obstinacy, her need to control everything and avoiding her feeling towards Michael. Personally, I found her behavior tedious and her denial of someone trying to kill her, annoying. It will be up to Michael to uncover this mystery while protecting Cecilia, to woo his bride and to encourage her immature brother assume his neglected responsibilities. This is a well written novel with complex characters and an intriguing storyline. I’m looking forward to reading about Blackthorne’s friends who also returned from the war…the Earl of Knightsbridge and the Duke of Roth.
I have received an ARC from OHB and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
April 9, 2021
Picit csalódás volt ez a könyv, valahogy nem keltett bennem semmiféle komoly érzelmet pedig kedvelem Gayle Callen-t. Könnyed olvasmány volt. A romantika háttérbe szorult, inkább a nyomozás volt hangsúlyos és a rejtély (hogy ki és miért akarja eltenni lábalól hősnőnket). Jó volt, jó volt... de közben mégse. A sztori nagyon ígéretesnek hangzott, többet is ki lehetett volna hozni ebből, ráadásul nagyon hirtelen ért véget.
1843, Anglia. "A katona férjem úgy döntött, meglátogat… Megsérült, ezért hazaküldték. Ráadásul nekem is alaposabban el kellett volna olvasnom a házassági papírokat. Nem egyszerűen Blackthorne őrnagy hitvese vagyok, hanem Blackthorne vikomté... Hat hónappal korábban távházasságot kötött egy olyan emberrel, akiről azt hitte, sosem fogja látni, és úgy gondolta, bölcs döntést hozott. Nem akart ő igazi férjet."
"Gyakorlatilag üzletet kötöttek, ahol Lady Cecilia anyagi függetlenségre tett szert, az őrnagy pedig elnyerte a lady háláját és a tudatot, hogy néhai parancsnoka lányán segített. Azelőtt ezzel be is érte volna, amíg személyesen nem találkoztak... csak egy meglehetősen csúnyácska teremtés szorulhatott rá arra, hogy ilyen módon kössön házasságot. Ehelyett hibátlan szépséget látott maga előtt... Arról ábrándozott, hogy mellette ébred, de ő, aki éveken át spártai körülmények között edződött, ki tudta várni, míg ennek is eljön az ideje... Ha embert farag az öccséből, azzal saját helyzetén is javíthat. Talán sikerül elnyernie a bizalmát, és lehet igazi házasságuk."
3,5/5
August 30, 2025
In this engaging tale, Cecilia Mallory is a young woman eager to secure her inheritance. She proposes marriage by proxy to Viscount Michael Blackthorne, a soldier, gentleman, and trusted friend of her late father. Expecting an older man, Cecilia is stunned when Michael, young and dashing, arrives at her doorstep to recover from an injury.
Uncertain about her feelings toward her unexpected husband, Cecilia finds herself slowly drawn to Michael's kindness and unwavering support, especially as he steps in to protect her when threats to her life emerge. Their bond deepens as they navigate not only these dangers but also the challenges posed by her immature younger brother, the Earl, who shirks his responsibilities in favor of indulgent pursuits.
Michael and Cecilia’s partnership shines as they work together to guide her brother and uncover the identity of the person threatening her. The romance between Cecilia and Michael was a slow burn and at times, I wanted to throttle Cecilia, her refusal to face things and her resistance to Michael when he was so kind and supportive seemed ridiculous. The plot is filled with surprising twists, and the true villain is revealed in an unexpected turn of events.
Overall, I found this story enjoyable, it offers a compelling blend of slow-burn romance, mystery, family dynamics, and intrigue, leading to a conclusion that is both surprising and satisfying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Uncertain about her feelings toward her unexpected husband, Cecilia finds herself slowly drawn to Michael's kindness and unwavering support, especially as he steps in to protect her when threats to her life emerge. Their bond deepens as they navigate not only these dangers but also the challenges posed by her immature younger brother, the Earl, who shirks his responsibilities in favor of indulgent pursuits.
Michael and Cecilia’s partnership shines as they work together to guide her brother and uncover the identity of the person threatening her. The romance between Cecilia and Michael was a slow burn and at times, I wanted to throttle Cecilia, her refusal to face things and her resistance to Michael when he was so kind and supportive seemed ridiculous. The plot is filled with surprising twists, and the true villain is revealed in an unexpected turn of events.
Overall, I found this story enjoyable, it offers a compelling blend of slow-burn romance, mystery, family dynamics, and intrigue, leading to a conclusion that is both surprising and satisfying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2025
At their father’s death in India, Ceclia Mallory’s young brother became the Earl of Appertan. Oliver is immature and Cecelia worries about him and his ability to handle the estate. Cecelia would like to help him and help take care of the estate. To do so, she needs to gain her independence and access to her inheritance. That requires that she marry. She proposes a proxy marriage to Sergeant Michael Blackthorne, an “old” friend of her father, with whom she has been corresponding with. He agrees. When Michael returns to England to recuperate from a severe wound, he surprises his wife, not only with his arrival, but that he is not the older gentleman she thought he was. While he recovers, they will have a chance to get to know each other. It will be a very rocky road. Shortly after he arrives, they realize that someone wishes to harm Cecelia. The two of them work together to keep her safe and solve the mystery. Cecelia is a conscientious, caring person, but slow to trust, and to allow others to help her. Michael, Viscount Blackthorne, is wonderful, smart, patient, and caring. He wants to protect Cecelia. He wants to help guide her brother. This story’s plot includes family issues, a mystery, and a lovely slow-burn romance. Good read.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
September 9, 2025
I enjoyed the opening pages of this romance as Cecilia and the man she knows as Sergeant Blackthorne correspond with one another, sharing their day-to-day experiences and observations. When it becomes evident that Cecilia does not have the control she needs to continue running her brother's estate on his behalf, waiting for him to mature and finish sowing his wild oats, she resorts to asking the Sergeant to marry her by proxy. All seems to go well until Michael is wounded and ordered home to recuperate. Obviously, he needs to check up on his wife and ensure that she is well. All at once, Cecilia's iron-clad control starts to shift, and she finds herself having to acquiesce to the husband she had never met in person. There is more at stake than an unruly young adult who does not want the responsibility of taking the reins from his sister, and with his training and background, Michael recognises the threat to Cecilia's safety. At times, I did not like Cecilia, although I could understand why she needed to keep a firm control on her life, and felt sorry for the patient and caring Michael, as Cecilia kept blowing hot and cold. As events escalate, the truth emerges and attitudes change, bringing about a lovely conclusion to this novel. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Oliver Heber Books and BookSprout, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
August 26, 2025
We have Sergeant Michael Blackthorne aka Viscount Blackthorne married by proxy to Lady Cecilia Mallory now Lady Blackthorne!
This story starts out with Michael being injured and returning home from India to recover! He and Cecilia have exchanged several letters and he has the esteem of her father whom they both loved!
Now these two have to navigate the intricacies of marriage as well as the sudden accidents that plague Cecilia! They started after her husband comes home! Michael among others are suspects the accidents continue and now Michael himself was a victim of one!
Cecilia feels that she and her brother have suffered so much loss in India from her brother, mother and father for various reasons! Cecilia is even more protective of her brother and she sometimes smothers him!
Michael sees this and determines to let him grow up and also take the reins of the Earldom so he matures! But someone close to them is very deceptive in nature!
Michael and Cecilia have a chance at a HEA but only if they trust each other and the feelings growing between them! Bravo love a little mystery and the taste of the next book to come!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story starts out with Michael being injured and returning home from India to recover! He and Cecilia have exchanged several letters and he has the esteem of her father whom they both loved!
Now these two have to navigate the intricacies of marriage as well as the sudden accidents that plague Cecilia! They started after her husband comes home! Michael among others are suspects the accidents continue and now Michael himself was a victim of one!
Cecilia feels that she and her brother have suffered so much loss in India from her brother, mother and father for various reasons! Cecilia is even more protective of her brother and she sometimes smothers him!
Michael sees this and determines to let him grow up and also take the reins of the Earldom so he matures! But someone close to them is very deceptive in nature!
Michael and Cecilia have a chance at a HEA but only if they trust each other and the feelings growing between them! Bravo love a little mystery and the taste of the next book to come!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2025
Cecilia convinced her father's friend Michael to marry her by proxy. She assumed that he was an older man. She therefore couldn't believe it when her husband unexpectedly returned home from military duty in India and he turned out to be handsome and not so very old! Cecilia knew that a man like Michael couldn't possibly wish to stay in England married to her, so she needed to guard her heart. Besides, she was already very busy managing her irresponsible younger brother's estate.
Michael felt that he had a duty to make sure that the children of his late friend were doing okay. However, when he saw Cecilia, it was love at first sight. Unfortunately, she started having some accidents. Too many for it to be mere coincidence. Despite Cecilia's half-hearted protests, Micheal wouldn't leave unless he knew that she was safe. It also bought him more time to win her over and make her his wife in truth.
This was an exciting read. The romance develops slowly but the payoff is worth it. There is also an element of mystery which leads to some unexpected surprises at the end of the book. The story is the first of a series, but it does work fine on its own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael felt that he had a duty to make sure that the children of his late friend were doing okay. However, when he saw Cecilia, it was love at first sight. Unfortunately, she started having some accidents. Too many for it to be mere coincidence. Despite Cecilia's half-hearted protests, Micheal wouldn't leave unless he knew that she was safe. It also bought him more time to win her over and make her his wife in truth.
This was an exciting read. The romance develops slowly but the payoff is worth it. There is also an element of mystery which leads to some unexpected surprises at the end of the book. The story is the first of a series, but it does work fine on its own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2025
Ceclia Mallory needs help, not only to access her inheritance but also with her immature brother, the Earl. Only upon marriage will Cecilia gain access to her inheritance so it is imperative that she marry. She proposes a marriage by proxy to her father’s trusted friend, Viscount Michael Blackthorne, who is currently away in India and corresponds with him. When Michael arrives back in the UK, Cecilia is expecting he would be closer in age to her father. Imagine her surprise when a young, strapping man turns up at her door. Michael has sustained an injury and needs time to heal. This provides the perfect opportunity for the two of them to get better acquainted.
Michael is everything you wish a hero, kind, compassionate, supportive of his wife and an all-around nice chap. He was also willing to help Cecilia guide her brother. When threats are made against Cecilia, Michael collaborates with her to determine where they are coming from and to solve the mystery. This slow burn romance was lovely to read. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
Michael is everything you wish a hero, kind, compassionate, supportive of his wife and an all-around nice chap. He was also willing to help Cecilia guide her brother. When threats are made against Cecilia, Michael collaborates with her to determine where they are coming from and to solve the mystery. This slow burn romance was lovely to read. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
September 3, 2025
I enjoyed the majority of this book. Two people who have no real interest in marriage but are married by proxy so Cecelia can get her inheritance to run the estate her brother inherited but doesn't care for, and so Michael, Lord Blackstone can fulfill a promise to his superior who died while in the military.
Cecelia isn't really happy when Michael is sent home to Britain to recover from wounds suffered in India, but she allows him to move in with her since it would be awkward if she didn't.
OK...so far everything is great. Michael is a champ and is rapidly falling for Cecelia. She in turn is also falling...just not as quickly. What's not to like, right?
Then there are some 'accidents' that happen to Cecelia and when Michael finds out about them, he goes full protective mode. Then we find out why someone is trying to hurt Cecelia, and for me, the story took a turn for the worse. I'd be getting into spoiler territory if I go further, so I won't.
I did like the story, I liked the writing, and I really wanted a better ending. I hope book 2 of Brides of Redemption has a better ending and perhaps a bit more about Cecelia and Michael!
Cecelia isn't really happy when Michael is sent home to Britain to recover from wounds suffered in India, but she allows him to move in with her since it would be awkward if she didn't.
OK...so far everything is great. Michael is a champ and is rapidly falling for Cecelia. She in turn is also falling...just not as quickly. What's not to like, right?
Then there are some 'accidents' that happen to Cecelia and when Michael finds out about them, he goes full protective mode. Then we find out why someone is trying to hurt Cecelia, and for me, the story took a turn for the worse. I'd be getting into spoiler territory if I go further, so I won't.
I did like the story, I liked the writing, and I really wanted a better ending. I hope book 2 of Brides of Redemption has a better ending and perhaps a bit more about Cecelia and Michael!
December 2, 2017
I like a story that keeps me on edge, on my toes, makes me want to never stop turning the pages and devour in one sitting if that is possible. This story is none of that. I struggled very hard to finish this story and not fall asleep on it.
Michael is a soldier who got injured in his line of duty and had to come home to England to his wife who he married via proxy. Cecilia is an earl’s daughter who oversees her brother estates after her father died and who married Michael via proxy because he offered to assist her in gettting rid of her guardian so she can access her inheritance money. The two of them only conversed through letters until one day Michael ended up at her doorstep injured.
Then begins a game of cat and mouse. Cecilia is playing hard to get and does not want to give up control of her brother’w estate. Michael is like a third wheel who is staying in Cecilia’s brother house as an unwelcome guest.
This story is sorely lacking romance also. Only the last few pages of the book, then romance comes into play.
Michael is a soldier who got injured in his line of duty and had to come home to England to his wife who he married via proxy. Cecilia is an earl’s daughter who oversees her brother estates after her father died and who married Michael via proxy because he offered to assist her in gettting rid of her guardian so she can access her inheritance money. The two of them only conversed through letters until one day Michael ended up at her doorstep injured.
Then begins a game of cat and mouse. Cecilia is playing hard to get and does not want to give up control of her brother’w estate. Michael is like a third wheel who is staying in Cecilia’s brother house as an unwelcome guest.
This story is sorely lacking romance also. Only the last few pages of the book, then romance comes into play.
May 18, 2021
Cecilia never had any desire to get married but to get her hands on her inheritance, in order to save her family's estate, she needed to get married quick. A soldier that served with her father seemed to be the perfect husband, especially since their marriage was to be by proxy. But when Michael appears on her doorstep the elderly soldier she was expecting was not the husband before her. Michael always respected Cecilia's father and was honored to serve with him, even if he blames himself for his death. Michael hoped that the proxy marriage would be a good way to repay the debt he feels he owes but when he's injured and sent home from India to recover, his wife was so much more than he could imagine. As they adjust their marriage ideas and expectations Cecilia and Michael slowly learn to trust. But will it be enough to save Cecilia from someone who wants to harm her? A really great start to the Brides of Redemption series from new-to-me author Gayle Callen. Really excited to continue with the series!
September 5, 2025
They connected through letters, and married by proxy.
She expected an old man, and he an unsightly spinster.
You don’t always get what you want... sometimes you get so much more.
Cecilia & Michael
An earl’s daughter who’s lost her entire family except for a wayward younger brother, and is now effectively running her family’s estates. She’s a woman who firmly believes that being in control is the safest position to be, and so she proposes to her late father’s friend – no nuptial hassle and the freedom of his name.
A man who fled England and his father’s greedy machinations by joining the army and fighting for Queen and country in halfway across the world. A viscount who lives and breaths for his job, but when convalescence forces him to return home, he can’t help but being a little curious about his mysterious wife.
Two virtual strangers bound by marriage, an overindulged young lord, his airheaded fiancée, too many accidents and too many excuses – all of it set in the country – and you get an intriguing story.
I really liked disciplined, devoted Michael. Control freak Cecilia not so much.
They click at first sight, yet their romance is a slow burn. He wants a real marriage, she wants an annulment. He’s looking for partnership, she clings to status quo. I will admit to getting frustrated with this heroine’s muleheadedness and distrust. Her man is a born protector with the patience of a saint, treats her and her brother with more deference than they deserve, and all the while he’s in limbo. I guess there wouldn’t be a story without conflict, but I really would have liked to see her soften up a bit sooner.
The side plots about her brother and all the accidents were far more interesting – and while a little iffy, I did not see this one coming.
In short: this was my least favourite Gayle Callen book so far, but still a very captivating read.
She expected an old man, and he an unsightly spinster.
You don’t always get what you want... sometimes you get so much more.
Cecilia & Michael
An earl’s daughter who’s lost her entire family except for a wayward younger brother, and is now effectively running her family’s estates. She’s a woman who firmly believes that being in control is the safest position to be, and so she proposes to her late father’s friend – no nuptial hassle and the freedom of his name.
A man who fled England and his father’s greedy machinations by joining the army and fighting for Queen and country in halfway across the world. A viscount who lives and breaths for his job, but when convalescence forces him to return home, he can’t help but being a little curious about his mysterious wife.
Two virtual strangers bound by marriage, an overindulged young lord, his airheaded fiancée, too many accidents and too many excuses – all of it set in the country – and you get an intriguing story.
I really liked disciplined, devoted Michael. Control freak Cecilia not so much.
They click at first sight, yet their romance is a slow burn. He wants a real marriage, she wants an annulment. He’s looking for partnership, she clings to status quo. I will admit to getting frustrated with this heroine’s muleheadedness and distrust. Her man is a born protector with the patience of a saint, treats her and her brother with more deference than they deserve, and all the while he’s in limbo. I guess there wouldn’t be a story without conflict, but I really would have liked to see her soften up a bit sooner.
The side plots about her brother and all the accidents were far more interesting – and while a little iffy, I did not see this one coming.
In short: this was my least favourite Gayle Callen book so far, but still a very captivating read.
September 2, 2025
Oh, I do love a good escape into a book by Gayle Callen! Return of the Viscount was that and more: a true page-turner filled with mystery and intrigue, topped by a blossoming romance. Add to that a perfect cup of coffee and my comfy chair, and I was a happy reader indeed.
I found Cecelia and Michael's story a nice twist from "standard" romance novels. What started out as a marriage of convenience and, by proxy, no less, turned into a wonderful love story that grew as they worked to solve the mystery of who was trying to kill her!
I must admit, I figured out "whodunnit" quite quickly, but I had my doubts as the author deftly tossed in twists and turns. It was satisfying to know I was right, in the end, but the journey to get there kept my attention throughout.
I definitely recommend Return of the Viscount and look forward to the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found Cecelia and Michael's story a nice twist from "standard" romance novels. What started out as a marriage of convenience and, by proxy, no less, turned into a wonderful love story that grew as they worked to solve the mystery of who was trying to kill her!
I must admit, I figured out "whodunnit" quite quickly, but I had my doubts as the author deftly tossed in twists and turns. It was satisfying to know I was right, in the end, but the journey to get there kept my attention throughout.
I definitely recommend Return of the Viscount and look forward to the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 6, 2025
This delightful Regency romance takes the beloved "marriage of convenience" trope and adds a fresh twist with unexpected chemistry, hidden motives, and a slow-burn emotional payoff. Cecilia Mallory thinks she's found a loophole to secure her inheritance without entanglements—but what she gets is a young, noble war hero with secrets of his own.
Michael Blackthorne is everything Cecilia wasn’t expecting: honorable, protective, and increasingly hard to resist. Their growing affection is tender and believable, layered with mutual respect, suspicion, and undeniable attraction. Add in a lurking threat and a debt of honor, and you have a compelling blend of romance and intrigue.
With sparkling dialogue, emotional depth, and just enough mystery to keep the pages turning, this is a perfect read for fans of strong heroines, noble heroes, and love that slowly—and sweetly—upends every plan.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael Blackthorne is everything Cecilia wasn’t expecting: honorable, protective, and increasingly hard to resist. Their growing affection is tender and believable, layered with mutual respect, suspicion, and undeniable attraction. Add in a lurking threat and a debt of honor, and you have a compelling blend of romance and intrigue.
With sparkling dialogue, emotional depth, and just enough mystery to keep the pages turning, this is a perfect read for fans of strong heroines, noble heroes, and love that slowly—and sweetly—upends every plan.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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