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Miss Delacourt #4
Lord Haversham Takes Command
Lord Haversham feels as if he is always running, first from Lord and Lady Avery, his foolish parents, then from the consequences of a schoolboy prank gone awry. Now a secret service agent to the young Queen Victoria, he has run back to England from traitors who seek his life. Little does he know he is running into danger of a different kind; the perceptive, sapphire-blue gaze of his childhood love, Miranda Crenshaw. How is he to win her heart without giving away his secret and endangering the life of the Queen?
Mira's parents, Sir Anthony and Lady Crenshaw, had always assumed their daughter would wed her lifelong friend, Harry. However, when he returns to England after a long absence, gone is the boy they had known and loved. Instead he is Bertie, a silly fop exactly like his flibbertigibbet parents. As such, her parents feel obliged to wed her to George, the young Duke of Marcross, whom Mira despises. Instead, she dreams of the man Harry was meant to be. When she catches a glimpse of him beneath his silly facade, she must find a way to persuade her parents he is the man for her--before he once again runs out of her life.
Mira's parents, Sir Anthony and Lady Crenshaw, had always assumed their daughter would wed her lifelong friend, Harry. However, when he returns to England after a long absence, gone is the boy they had known and loved. Instead he is Bertie, a silly fop exactly like his flibbertigibbet parents. As such, her parents feel obliged to wed her to George, the young Duke of Marcross, whom Mira despises. Instead, she dreams of the man Harry was meant to be. When she catches a glimpse of him beneath his silly facade, she must find a way to persuade her parents he is the man for her--before he once again runs out of her life.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2013
310 people are currently reading
778 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Ashworth
19 books262 followersAward-winning, best-selling author Heidi Ashworth lives with her husband and three children in the San Francisco Bay Area. She writes sweet, traditional, Regency-era romance, romantic comedy, and mystery. She is the author of the Miss Delacourt series, published by Montlake Romance. The third book in The Lord Trevelin Mysteries releases October 2019.
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September 14, 2018Kindle freebie, Sept. 14, 2018. Regency romance with an espionage subplot.
April 8, 2019
kindle freebie at time of download
3.5 stars
Beautiful and intelligent Miranda Crenshaw is looking forward to her debutante season and all the beautiful dresses she will have (MUCH more fashionable than the ones worn by her mother in 1812). She has no intentions of choosing a husband, however, for her heart belongs to her childhood friend, Viscount Hubert Haversham. Harry was a playmate of her brothers and nearest neighbor until he finished Eton. He hasn't been home since. While his foolish parents may be a good reason to avoid England, what about Mira and her family? Aren't they family too? When Harry finally arrives home after years abroad, the Crenshaws are shocked and dismayed to see their friend become "Bertie" a fashionable fribble who mimics his grandfather's speech patterns and the awful hand clapping of his silly mother. "Bertie" is not considered a viable suitor for Mira's hand. She must marry her cousin George, the Duke of Marcoss. Mira despises George with every fiber of her being but her parents think because their relationship did not start off as friendship, Mira might grow to love George as much as her unfashionable parents love each other. Why has Harry suddenly started acting as silly as his parents and how can Mira make her parents see he is the one man for her? Harry Haversham has been abroad these last few years learning to be a man and pledging his life in service to the new young queen. "Bertie" is his cover. He should have known Mira would see right through him but how can he get close to her knowing she could die because of him?
This story had a lot of potential but petered out at the end. At the 90% mark I was left wondering how this would all turn out and whether there was a sequel I had missed. No, the ending is just sadly lacking. I would have liked to see more story development for Bertie and how he discovered the villain and why and what happens next! The ending is so rushed things don't really get resolved. I was hoping also for more spy activities for Bertie to participate in. I did appreciate how he told Mira the truth early on because I could not have born a whole book based on pretense. The relationship between Mira and Harry develops well until the very rushed ending.
Fashion lovers will rejoice in reading about the new fashions of the early Victorian era. I prefer the "dowdy" fashions of the Regency period. I think Mira and her friends look silly in their puffed sleeves and hoops.
It was great to catch up with Ginny, Anthony, Lucinda and Lord Avery again. Ginny has lost some of her spunk. I think she would have made an admirable Duchess in time. I miss outspoken, shrewish Ginny Delacourt who always had something to say. Anthony has grown a bit lazy and indifferent to the goings-on of his family. He is still in awe of his cousin as head of the family and feels duty bound to act as the heir. He still loves Ginny very much and I enjoyed the sweet moments between them, much to their children's' disgust. Lucinda is still as selfish and annoying as heck! All her actions are cringe-worthy and she's in danger of being cut dead by the society she craves. I can see why she only has the one child! Eustace knows how to appease Lucinda and soothe her nerves but he spends as much time as possible at his club away from his wife! I feel sorry for them both. Lucinda should have had her coming out and married an older, more authoritative man who could control her freakish behavior.
The next generation is not quite as appealing as the older. Mira seems a bit shallow. She's intelligent enough to know how to use a dictionary and spout big words but it seems like an affectation rather than a scholarly desire to sound intelligent. I like her brothers because they seem to take after Ginny and say whatever comes into their heads. The Crenshaws are a loving family and the boys look out for their little sister. Ginny and Anthony love their children and want what is best for them. They do intend to listen to Mira's wishes when it comes time to choosing a husband but they're a bit obtuse as to what is going on with Harry/Bertie. Harry is an admirable hero. He has a dark secret from his past that affects his present. It led him to be a bit reckless and join the secret service! His cover is a bit flimsy and he should have known returning home would blow that cover. I think Bertie is charming albeit a bit annoying. Harry is a kind, loyal, loving young man. I have no doubt of how much he loves Mira and how it hurts him to have to be Bertie.
George is a complicated character. In some ways he's the typical Ducal type. He wants to possess Mira because she's beautiful and because it's expected they would wed. He doesn't really know her or care about her as a person. I suspect he's rude to his servants and snobby towards those he considers "inferior." In other ways, George is a snivelling coward who values his own skin more than his country. I think this is a result of being spoiled his his mother. We don't see much of her and she doesn't play a large role in this story. Why hasn't she married again? Will she once she's no longer the Duchess but Dowager Duchess? I bet she will. Perhaps a foreign prince? I wanted more interaction between George and his mother because I was curious about how his story would play out. It doesn't and ends very abruptly. Is he smarter than he looks? Why was he at the Pagoda? Coincidence?
This book could use some fleshing out and a sequel. I enjoyed the series but this one has too many flaws to rate it as high as Miss Delacourt Speaks Her Mind.
3.5 stars
Beautiful and intelligent Miranda Crenshaw is looking forward to her debutante season and all the beautiful dresses she will have (MUCH more fashionable than the ones worn by her mother in 1812). She has no intentions of choosing a husband, however, for her heart belongs to her childhood friend, Viscount Hubert Haversham. Harry was a playmate of her brothers and nearest neighbor until he finished Eton. He hasn't been home since. While his foolish parents may be a good reason to avoid England, what about Mira and her family? Aren't they family too? When Harry finally arrives home after years abroad, the Crenshaws are shocked and dismayed to see their friend become "Bertie" a fashionable fribble who mimics his grandfather's speech patterns and the awful hand clapping of his silly mother. "Bertie" is not considered a viable suitor for Mira's hand. She must marry her cousin George, the Duke of Marcoss. Mira despises George with every fiber of her being but her parents think because their relationship did not start off as friendship, Mira might grow to love George as much as her unfashionable parents love each other. Why has Harry suddenly started acting as silly as his parents and how can Mira make her parents see he is the one man for her? Harry Haversham has been abroad these last few years learning to be a man and pledging his life in service to the new young queen. "Bertie" is his cover. He should have known Mira would see right through him but how can he get close to her knowing she could die because of him?
This story had a lot of potential but petered out at the end. At the 90% mark I was left wondering how this would all turn out and whether there was a sequel I had missed. No, the ending is just sadly lacking. I would have liked to see more story development for Bertie and how he discovered the villain and why and what happens next! The ending is so rushed things don't really get resolved. I was hoping also for more spy activities for Bertie to participate in. I did appreciate how he told Mira the truth early on because I could not have born a whole book based on pretense. The relationship between Mira and Harry develops well until the very rushed ending.
Fashion lovers will rejoice in reading about the new fashions of the early Victorian era. I prefer the "dowdy" fashions of the Regency period. I think Mira and her friends look silly in their puffed sleeves and hoops.
It was great to catch up with Ginny, Anthony, Lucinda and Lord Avery again. Ginny has lost some of her spunk. I think she would have made an admirable Duchess in time. I miss outspoken, shrewish Ginny Delacourt who always had something to say. Anthony has grown a bit lazy and indifferent to the goings-on of his family. He is still in awe of his cousin as head of the family and feels duty bound to act as the heir. He still loves Ginny very much and I enjoyed the sweet moments between them, much to their children's' disgust. Lucinda is still as selfish and annoying as heck! All her actions are cringe-worthy and she's in danger of being cut dead by the society she craves. I can see why she only has the one child! Eustace knows how to appease Lucinda and soothe her nerves but he spends as much time as possible at his club away from his wife! I feel sorry for them both. Lucinda should have had her coming out and married an older, more authoritative man who could control her freakish behavior.
The next generation is not quite as appealing as the older. Mira seems a bit shallow. She's intelligent enough to know how to use a dictionary and spout big words but it seems like an affectation rather than a scholarly desire to sound intelligent. I like her brothers because they seem to take after Ginny and say whatever comes into their heads. The Crenshaws are a loving family and the boys look out for their little sister. Ginny and Anthony love their children and want what is best for them. They do intend to listen to Mira's wishes when it comes time to choosing a husband but they're a bit obtuse as to what is going on with Harry/Bertie. Harry is an admirable hero. He has a dark secret from his past that affects his present. It led him to be a bit reckless and join the secret service! His cover is a bit flimsy and he should have known returning home would blow that cover. I think Bertie is charming albeit a bit annoying. Harry is a kind, loyal, loving young man. I have no doubt of how much he loves Mira and how it hurts him to have to be Bertie.
George is a complicated character. In some ways he's the typical Ducal type. He wants to possess Mira because she's beautiful and because it's expected they would wed. He doesn't really know her or care about her as a person. I suspect he's rude to his servants and snobby towards those he considers "inferior." In other ways, George is a snivelling coward who values his own skin more than his country. I think this is a result of being spoiled his his mother. We don't see much of her and she doesn't play a large role in this story. Why hasn't she married again? Will she once she's no longer the Duchess but Dowager Duchess? I bet she will. Perhaps a foreign prince? I wanted more interaction between George and his mother because I was curious about how his story would play out. It doesn't and ends very abruptly. Is he smarter than he looks? Why was he at the Pagoda? Coincidence?
This book could use some fleshing out and a sequel. I enjoyed the series but this one has too many flaws to rate it as high as Miss Delacourt Speaks Her Mind.
April 3, 2014
Heidi Ashworth always knows how to make me laugh! I have no idea why I waited so long to read this, but it was worth the wait! (Even if I still wish I would've read it earlier. ;))
It was nice to read about the same lovable characters from the rest of the series, but have new people thrown in to keep the series from becoming repetitive. (A series should have a limit of 2 books in which the same characters take center stage. In my opinion. ;)) I so enjoyed the first two books in this story about Ginny and Anthony- and now I've enjoyed their daughters story! Mira and Harry were wonderful leads and made an adorable couple! George was SO annoying and conceited. :P
The plot moved very quickly- almost too quickly at parts; at times it seemed there was insufficient information and I kind of got confused as to what exactly went on by the end...but thinking back over the story, it all made sense. Just a bit rushed. However, having the mystery move quickly left more time for conversation and comedy, so I was completely satisfied. ^_^ I loved Harry needing to have tea in order to think through his plans clearly! So British. ;)
I'm looking forward to reading the fifth book in the Delacourt series, and any future works of Heidi Ashworth. :)
It was nice to read about the same lovable characters from the rest of the series, but have new people thrown in to keep the series from becoming repetitive. (A series should have a limit of 2 books in which the same characters take center stage. In my opinion. ;)) I so enjoyed the first two books in this story about Ginny and Anthony- and now I've enjoyed their daughters story! Mira and Harry were wonderful leads and made an adorable couple! George was SO annoying and conceited. :P
The plot moved very quickly- almost too quickly at parts; at times it seemed there was insufficient information and I kind of got confused as to what exactly went on by the end...but thinking back over the story, it all made sense. Just a bit rushed. However, having the mystery move quickly left more time for conversation and comedy, so I was completely satisfied. ^_^ I loved Harry needing to have tea in order to think through his plans clearly! So British. ;)
I'm looking forward to reading the fifth book in the Delacourt series, and any future works of Heidi Ashworth. :)
July 7, 2013
Start with all that is proper and romantic,
Add an air of royalty,
Throw in a love triangle, espionage, and duty to queen and country,
And you have this wonderful, amazing tale!
Miranda has come of age and is ready to make her formal debut into society. She is especially excited since "her Harry" has come back.
But when Harry shows up in lace and wants to be called Bertie, Miranda's parents wonder if it would be better for her to marry George.
George has always felt that Miranda belonged to him, but does he love her or just the title she will give him?
Can Harry keep everyone safe while acting the fool, yet still try to keep the love of Miranda?
Follow Miranda as she has her coming out, but keep your eye on Harry and George, for you never know what might happen as "Lord Haversham takes command."
Oh and wait until you meet Harry's mother...
SO WONDERFULLY GOOD!
If you love Regency Romance from Sarah Eden and Julianne Donaldson you will LOVE this new book by Heidi Ashworth!
Add an air of royalty,
Throw in a love triangle, espionage, and duty to queen and country,
And you have this wonderful, amazing tale!
Miranda has come of age and is ready to make her formal debut into society. She is especially excited since "her Harry" has come back.
But when Harry shows up in lace and wants to be called Bertie, Miranda's parents wonder if it would be better for her to marry George.
George has always felt that Miranda belonged to him, but does he love her or just the title she will give him?
Can Harry keep everyone safe while acting the fool, yet still try to keep the love of Miranda?
Follow Miranda as she has her coming out, but keep your eye on Harry and George, for you never know what might happen as "Lord Haversham takes command."
Oh and wait until you meet Harry's mother...
SO WONDERFULLY GOOD!
If you love Regency Romance from Sarah Eden and Julianne Donaldson you will LOVE this new book by Heidi Ashworth!
August 20, 2013
I had a bit of time to do some reading in the past week and one of the favorites of the books I read was Heidi Ashworth's regency romance, Lord Haversham Takes Command.
Mira is about to have her debut into society when she gets the news that her brother's friend Harry, whom she has always loved, has come back from his Grand Tour abroad. It's been four years and she is ecstatic. Her feelings quickly turn to dismay, however, when Harry is now dressed in lace and acting like a "fribble" asking everyone to now call him Bertie. Her parents are aghast and while they had thought that Harry and Mira would make a love match, now they think Mira might best be suited to her cousin George, the Duke of Marcross. A man Mira definitely does not want. On her family's journey to London, however, she sees a glimpse of the Harry she once knew and loved and knows there is something else going on, especially when gunshots ring out.
Harry does his best to hide his secret life from her, while pining away, hoping she doesn't end up marrying George. He was such a great hero, though, and I felt for him. The double life isn't for the faint of heart, for sure. There are quite a few moments that made me laugh, especially when Harry's mother throws a party, but there's also some sigh-worthy romance thrown in and a good bit of suspense---the three best things to have in a novel I think. But best of all, the author gives us a really great ending. My only criticism was that sometimes it felt like we were hit over the head that Harry was a secret service agent and he couldn't tell anyone his secret but he really wanted to tell his secret, but well, then it wouldn't be secret anymore. And I know this is the fourth book in a series and I felt like I missed some inside jokes because I hadn't read the previous one where Sir Anthony meets his wife (which I want to read now because it sounds intriguing!) But other than those small things, it was a really great read for this regency romance fan.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
Mira is about to have her debut into society when she gets the news that her brother's friend Harry, whom she has always loved, has come back from his Grand Tour abroad. It's been four years and she is ecstatic. Her feelings quickly turn to dismay, however, when Harry is now dressed in lace and acting like a "fribble" asking everyone to now call him Bertie. Her parents are aghast and while they had thought that Harry and Mira would make a love match, now they think Mira might best be suited to her cousin George, the Duke of Marcross. A man Mira definitely does not want. On her family's journey to London, however, she sees a glimpse of the Harry she once knew and loved and knows there is something else going on, especially when gunshots ring out.
Harry does his best to hide his secret life from her, while pining away, hoping she doesn't end up marrying George. He was such a great hero, though, and I felt for him. The double life isn't for the faint of heart, for sure. There are quite a few moments that made me laugh, especially when Harry's mother throws a party, but there's also some sigh-worthy romance thrown in and a good bit of suspense---the three best things to have in a novel I think. But best of all, the author gives us a really great ending. My only criticism was that sometimes it felt like we were hit over the head that Harry was a secret service agent and he couldn't tell anyone his secret but he really wanted to tell his secret, but well, then it wouldn't be secret anymore. And I know this is the fourth book in a series and I felt like I missed some inside jokes because I hadn't read the previous one where Sir Anthony meets his wife (which I want to read now because it sounds intriguing!) But other than those small things, it was a really great read for this regency romance fan.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
July 21, 2013
"I received this book for review. All opinions are my own."
Lord Haversham Takes Command by Heidi Ashworth is the fourth book in the Miss Delacourt series. I have not read the previous books but it did not effect the reading of this one. I plan to read the other books in this series
When Mira Crenshaw learns of the arrival of Harry Haversham, who has been away for several years. She's nothing less than ecstatic. She has loved him always and cannot wait to see him but upon his arrival, it is apparent he has changed.
No longer going by the name of Harry, he quickly informs everyone that he is now Bertie. Mira, confused, cannot understand the change in him, why he is so different. She is coming of age and ready to be presented into society and she has also reached the age where marriage is being considered. Her parents are confused as to whom she should marry. They want their daughter to be happy and know her feelings for Harry, but with the drastic change in him they are no longer sure. They decide on George, a boy that Mira despises. George wants Mira for his own but his intentions are questionable. But for Harry there is more going on than meets the eye. He holds a secret. A secret that could change the course of everyone's life as well as destroy others. He plays the fool to try to hide his secret which raises even more questions. As we follow Mira and Harry, we begin to learn more and more about both of them as well George. Will her parents make the best decision for Mira or will secrets be revealed.
Some romance with a mix of mystery while adding some humor in the form of Harry's mother this is a must read. I can't wait for more from Heidi Ashworth.
Lord Haversham Takes Command by Heidi Ashworth is the fourth book in the Miss Delacourt series. I have not read the previous books but it did not effect the reading of this one. I plan to read the other books in this series
When Mira Crenshaw learns of the arrival of Harry Haversham, who has been away for several years. She's nothing less than ecstatic. She has loved him always and cannot wait to see him but upon his arrival, it is apparent he has changed.
No longer going by the name of Harry, he quickly informs everyone that he is now Bertie. Mira, confused, cannot understand the change in him, why he is so different. She is coming of age and ready to be presented into society and she has also reached the age where marriage is being considered. Her parents are confused as to whom she should marry. They want their daughter to be happy and know her feelings for Harry, but with the drastic change in him they are no longer sure. They decide on George, a boy that Mira despises. George wants Mira for his own but his intentions are questionable. But for Harry there is more going on than meets the eye. He holds a secret. A secret that could change the course of everyone's life as well as destroy others. He plays the fool to try to hide his secret which raises even more questions. As we follow Mira and Harry, we begin to learn more and more about both of them as well George. Will her parents make the best decision for Mira or will secrets be revealed.
Some romance with a mix of mystery while adding some humor in the form of Harry's mother this is a must read. I can't wait for more from Heidi Ashworth.
July 15, 2013
I was provided this book to review, however, my opinions are completely my own.
I read this book in just a few hours because I couldn't seem to put it down. It had adventure, romance, and espionage all throughout the book. I loved the story for the book, I felt that the characters were well developed and I was rooting for Harry to spill the beans to Mira and her family long before he did. My only wish is that it wouldn't have ended. I will be going back and purchasing the other 3 books in this series. For a more in depth review please visit my blog.
Literary Junkies Book Club Member
I read this book in just a few hours because I couldn't seem to put it down. It had adventure, romance, and espionage all throughout the book. I loved the story for the book, I felt that the characters were well developed and I was rooting for Harry to spill the beans to Mira and her family long before he did. My only wish is that it wouldn't have ended. I will be going back and purchasing the other 3 books in this series. For a more in depth review please visit my blog.
Literary Junkies Book Club Member
July 8, 2013
I enjoyed this. It was fun to read more about the characters I have already read and loved in three previous books and it was nice to see some many of them return, whether in a good way or a bad way! The new characters were also wonderful, especially Harry the hero! The story was fast flowing and very interesting as well as being full of humour. It was nice to read another Miss Delacourt adventure :)
July 22, 2013
My favorite type of book: clean, romantic, a bit of suspense, and a happy ending ending.
to-read-maybe
October 10, 2018Historically, this book is WAAAY mixed up. We have the characters dressing in clothing appropriate to French Revolution, communicating in dialogue full of Recency cant and allusions, along with the afore-mentioned late 1700s phrases--all set sometime after 1837 (the beginning of Victoria's reign).
In all my years of reading historical romances, I don't think I've ever come across one with such an idiotic lack of research.
And, I'm a clueless American with minimal knowledge of British history. This weird jumbled anachronistic craziness is driving me insane. I don't think I'll be able to force myself to finish.
Why would anyone decide to write a "historical" romance without first figuring out their time period first?!?
In all my years of reading historical romances, I don't think I've ever come across one with such an idiotic lack of research.
And, I'm a clueless American with minimal knowledge of British history. This weird jumbled anachronistic craziness is driving me insane. I don't think I'll be able to force myself to finish.
Why would anyone decide to write a "historical" romance without first figuring out their time period first?!?
February 27, 2018
Uncertainty and Love Deferred
A sweet romance buried in the messes of youth, insecurities, misguided decisions and life's trials with and without parental support. It was a good read that was deliberately a tad confusing in the telling? Love trumps all! Read and enjoy.
A sweet romance buried in the messes of youth, insecurities, misguided decisions and life's trials with and without parental support. It was a good read that was deliberately a tad confusing in the telling? Love trumps all! Read and enjoy.
January 31, 2020
Whizzed through this. Read in about 4 hours. It was o.k., a bit predictable. 3☆
July 20, 2013
Original review posted on Tressa's Wishful Endings.
Sometimes I need one of these nice romance books to settle down with after reading a very stressful dystopian or a book from another genre. This is one of those books, although there is a little suspense. I really loved Heidi's first book, Miss Delecourt Speaks Her Mind, and so when I saw a Facebook post from the author I was happy to accept a copy for review.
Miranda is the daughter of the couple in the first book. She is sweet, but also spirited, and is cherished by her family. She has come of age and is now on the marriage market. Her parents would like her to actually love whomever she ends up marrying. They thought that they knew who that would be, but things change when Harry comes back home after being away for several years and isn't quite the same young man he used to be. Miranda was unofficially promised to marry George, but Miranda can't stand him. Thus, the two men are pinned against each other for Miranda's hand.
Harry is the son of a couple from the first book. He is strong, intelligent, witty, and romantic. Fortunately, he hasn't turned out like his superfluous and dramatic parents. He does act like he did, though, because he is trying to throw those against him off his trail. He never realized how risky his position would be until he fears he will lose Miranda to another.
I really liked both Miranda and Harry. I liked the plot as well. I would have liked a few more things to have been worked out or explained, but it worked regardless. I liked the humorous parts, which helped to balance out the story. Then there are also the romantic scenes you would expect from a romance novel, but they weren't overly done or dramatic. Some of them even cracked me up. The ending is quite fun and sweet as well.
Overall if you enjoy historical romance and want to read something on the lighter side, then I would recommend picking this up.
Content: Clean
Source: Received copy for review from author, which did not affect the opinions shared in my review in any way.
Sometimes I need one of these nice romance books to settle down with after reading a very stressful dystopian or a book from another genre. This is one of those books, although there is a little suspense. I really loved Heidi's first book, Miss Delecourt Speaks Her Mind, and so when I saw a Facebook post from the author I was happy to accept a copy for review.
Miranda is the daughter of the couple in the first book. She is sweet, but also spirited, and is cherished by her family. She has come of age and is now on the marriage market. Her parents would like her to actually love whomever she ends up marrying. They thought that they knew who that would be, but things change when Harry comes back home after being away for several years and isn't quite the same young man he used to be. Miranda was unofficially promised to marry George, but Miranda can't stand him. Thus, the two men are pinned against each other for Miranda's hand.
Harry is the son of a couple from the first book. He is strong, intelligent, witty, and romantic. Fortunately, he hasn't turned out like his superfluous and dramatic parents. He does act like he did, though, because he is trying to throw those against him off his trail. He never realized how risky his position would be until he fears he will lose Miranda to another.
I really liked both Miranda and Harry. I liked the plot as well. I would have liked a few more things to have been worked out or explained, but it worked regardless. I liked the humorous parts, which helped to balance out the story. Then there are also the romantic scenes you would expect from a romance novel, but they weren't overly done or dramatic. Some of them even cracked me up. The ending is quite fun and sweet as well.
Overall if you enjoy historical romance and want to read something on the lighter side, then I would recommend picking this up.
Content: Clean
Source: Received copy for review from author, which did not affect the opinions shared in my review in any way.
July 20, 2013
I am definitely a fan of Heidi Ashworth’s writing style. If you like Pride & Prejudice, then you will love her (Miss Delacourt) books. There is a little bit of everything as far as intrigue, romance (the clean kind), and even humor.
This book is the 4th installment of her Miss Delacourt books, but if you have not read the previous books, in no way will you be lost (though I highly recommend them). This is a romantic story between Mira and Harry, children from the main characters from the previous Miss Delacourt books.
I laughed out loud at the character that Harry would portray (Bertie) in order to keep his status as a secret service agent under wraps. Everyone who knows him is confused and put out by his role as a dandy wearing too much lace. Even Mira, who hasn’t seen Harry in years is confused and disappointed. Harry is torn between the safety of those around him and loosing the good opinion of Mira and her parents for good. Mira, however, gets glimpses of the Harry she has always known and loved and has enough trust in him and his reasons for playing a dandy. Although there are times her trust is put to the test.
You can’t help but root for Harry and Mira to be together with the well described chemistry that they share. I won’t elaborate on the story anymore so as not to give anything away, however, there was a kissing scene that should go down in history for being the best kiss ever described in a book to make any woman's toes curl. I give mad props to Heidi Ashworth for her writing style and being able to describe a great kiss in the cleanest way.
This book will make you fall in love with the Regency Era and make you want to buy the previous Miss Delacourt books just to know the history of some of the key characters. Thank you Heidi for a very entertaining read! I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
This book is the 4th installment of her Miss Delacourt books, but if you have not read the previous books, in no way will you be lost (though I highly recommend them). This is a romantic story between Mira and Harry, children from the main characters from the previous Miss Delacourt books.
I laughed out loud at the character that Harry would portray (Bertie) in order to keep his status as a secret service agent under wraps. Everyone who knows him is confused and put out by his role as a dandy wearing too much lace. Even Mira, who hasn’t seen Harry in years is confused and disappointed. Harry is torn between the safety of those around him and loosing the good opinion of Mira and her parents for good. Mira, however, gets glimpses of the Harry she has always known and loved and has enough trust in him and his reasons for playing a dandy. Although there are times her trust is put to the test.
You can’t help but root for Harry and Mira to be together with the well described chemistry that they share. I won’t elaborate on the story anymore so as not to give anything away, however, there was a kissing scene that should go down in history for being the best kiss ever described in a book to make any woman's toes curl. I give mad props to Heidi Ashworth for her writing style and being able to describe a great kiss in the cleanest way.
This book will make you fall in love with the Regency Era and make you want to buy the previous Miss Delacourt books just to know the history of some of the key characters. Thank you Heidi for a very entertaining read! I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
July 29, 2013
This is a continuation to the Miss Delacourt books my friend Heidi writes. Its not the same characters, but the main characters children grown up and now falling in love. It was fast (I read it in one evening) and fun and sweet and just a good light read. Which is great because I've been reading Game of Thrones, and this was a much needed break from all that...ya know, death and incest and whatnot.
I have to say, although I liked Harry quite a bit, I don't think he's quite as swoon worthy as Sir Anthony. :) I also wasn't as in love with Mira as I was Ginny. Even so, it was fun to get to know them, and it was fun to see the old characters and laugh over the antics of Lady Avery again.
My biggest complaints would be that the beginning felt a little bit tedious and wordy, but it cleared up when things got going and then the ending. Heidi! I wanted MORE!! hahahaha It was short enough you could have added a chapter or two past that right?! ;) If this goes to another book, of course I'll read it but it wasn't such a cliffhanger to make me angry. I just like to know every last detail I possibly can. :) Thanks for the fun read once again!
I have to say, although I liked Harry quite a bit, I don't think he's quite as swoon worthy as Sir Anthony. :) I also wasn't as in love with Mira as I was Ginny. Even so, it was fun to get to know them, and it was fun to see the old characters and laugh over the antics of Lady Avery again.
My biggest complaints would be that the beginning felt a little bit tedious and wordy, but it cleared up when things got going and then the ending. Heidi! I wanted MORE!! hahahaha It was short enough you could have added a chapter or two past that right?! ;) If this goes to another book, of course I'll read it but it wasn't such a cliffhanger to make me angry. I just like to know every last detail I possibly can. :) Thanks for the fun read once again!
August 20, 2013
My MIL knows Heidi and gave me her first two books at christmastime. I loved the quick, just for fun read. I have a hard time getting into most "romance" books and toss the great majority aside - I'm looking for something light, not heaving and dirty, and something genuine and well written. I think Heidi really hit the mark here. These books are cute reads about falling in love and all the bumps along the way (though these lovers obstacles are hilariously larger than life). I loved it.
August 16, 2014
This book begins with an awkward and confusing barrage of historical colloquialisms. However, amusing wit and interesting characters quickly charm the reader.
Read full review in the 2013 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2013 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
January 12, 2017
Not worth your time
Several things were wrong with this book.
The formatting was terrible, there were various type fonts, spacing that varied from page to page.
But that is the least of it. I struggled to finish the book even at 80%. The characters were unusual, the story line unclear. It was just odd.
Several things were wrong with this book.
The formatting was terrible, there were various type fonts, spacing that varied from page to page.
But that is the least of it. I struggled to finish the book even at 80%. The characters were unusual, the story line unclear. It was just odd.
June 23, 2013
Good regency read!
July 3, 2013
I love Heidi Ashworth's regency novels, and this one doesn't disappoint. Lady Avery is a riot! Of course the romance between Harry and Mira is sweet and a lot of fun. Highly recommended!
December 12, 2016
Great story
Has many twist and turns in the story. Has happy ending. Want too see next chapter an twists in the story.
Has many twist and turns in the story. Has happy ending. Want too see next chapter an twists in the story.
January 13, 2017
Couldn't finish, I got really bored.
January 15, 2017
Nice Story
Good story, needs proofreading and proper typesetting. Reminiscent of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Characters are interesting and developed. Plot is unique.
Good story, needs proofreading and proper typesetting. Reminiscent of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Characters are interesting and developed. Plot is unique.
September 21, 2018
I'm only halfway through so far, but I had to stop and write this review. It's bad. Like, really bad. I'm forcing myself to finish it. The writing is juvenile, the characters are inane, the author contradicts herself on multiple plot-points and characterisms. It's painful to watch. Especially the dialogue. The dialogue is horrific and does nothing to move the story along. The author was trying to be witty and interesting but the dialogue just goes NOWHERE.
The premise is interesting, but the execution is severely lacking. Will update my review once I'm finished. Maybe the ending is worth it? Although, so far there is no reasons for the love story and really no backstory for why the male protagonist is even a spy in the first place. It's all very vague and wishy-washy.
EDIT: Ok, finished. It was horrible all the way through. I couldn't even read the last couple chapters all the way through--I had to scan them because at that point I was so ready to be done with this stupid book. Was the author HIGH when she wrote it?? Honestly, the plot made no sense and jumped around from one thing to another. The story had ZERO flow. The characters are caricatures of human beings. NO ONE behaves like these characters. They are all bipolar. There was no point to anything they did. And the historical inaccuracies and typos...I just can't....
The fact of the matter is that a good story is character-driven, not plot driven. And this story was especially bad because it was plot-driven in a way that made absolutely no sense whatsoever. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME READING THIS BOOK.
The premise is interesting, but the execution is severely lacking. Will update my review once I'm finished. Maybe the ending is worth it? Although, so far there is no reasons for the love story and really no backstory for why the male protagonist is even a spy in the first place. It's all very vague and wishy-washy.
EDIT: Ok, finished. It was horrible all the way through. I couldn't even read the last couple chapters all the way through--I had to scan them because at that point I was so ready to be done with this stupid book. Was the author HIGH when she wrote it?? Honestly, the plot made no sense and jumped around from one thing to another. The story had ZERO flow. The characters are caricatures of human beings. NO ONE behaves like these characters. They are all bipolar. There was no point to anything they did. And the historical inaccuracies and typos...I just can't....
The fact of the matter is that a good story is character-driven, not plot driven. And this story was especially bad because it was plot-driven in a way that made absolutely no sense whatsoever. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME READING THIS BOOK.
June 17, 2018
Lord Haversham has been in love with Mira Crenshaw for years, but when he returns from the continent, there are three insurmountable obstacles to their union. First, Lord Haversham is a secret agent sworn to protect the young Queen Victoria–how can he even think of courting Mira when the queen’s life is in danger? Second, Mira is being wooed by the odious Duke of Marcross, and her parents, albeit tepidly, seem to be supporting the match! And third, Lord Haversham’s mother, Lady Avery, continues to conduct herself in such an outrageous manner (dead fish floating in bowls on the dining table, a monkey loose at a house party, a wardrobe malfunction of mythological proportions) that it is unlikely Mira’s family will countenance the connection.
This book is a delightful look at the second generation of characters from the original Miss Delacourt novel. I especially enjoyed Mira’s protective older brothers, and Lord Haversham was an intrepid hero. The witty banter between Haversham and Marcross had me grinning from ear to ear, and the farcical situations only crescendoed throughout the story leading to a satisfying conclusion for all.
This book is a delightful look at the second generation of characters from the original Miss Delacourt novel. I especially enjoyed Mira’s protective older brothers, and Lord Haversham was an intrepid hero. The witty banter between Haversham and Marcross had me grinning from ear to ear, and the farcical situations only crescendoed throughout the story leading to a satisfying conclusion for all.
December 11, 2019
I don't why this book frustrated me ,
Is it the unconventional hero and heroine , the unconventional parents ,or the unconventional plot .
Hero in disguise and on a vague mission , with love and heartaches all over the book , heroine who knows nothing and believes nothing .
It was supposed to be mystery romantic , but it ended up by endless words and sentences to make a short story a book.
The author tried on thrilling moments but in my opinion didnt succeed , romance was weak ,plot was weak ,and actions were much weaker .
I felt am reading book for 14 years old .
Is it the unconventional hero and heroine , the unconventional parents ,or the unconventional plot .
Hero in disguise and on a vague mission , with love and heartaches all over the book , heroine who knows nothing and believes nothing .
It was supposed to be mystery romantic , but it ended up by endless words and sentences to make a short story a book.
The author tried on thrilling moments but in my opinion didnt succeed , romance was weak ,plot was weak ,and actions were much weaker .
I felt am reading book for 14 years old .
July 2, 2018
The summary intrigued me. I was hoping it would be more along the lines of the Scarlet Pimpernel, a classic. In that I was sadly wrong. The plot lacked any complexity. The main character spent more time agonizing over his role as a spy than actually being a spy. The end was thrown together rather haphazardly. And there was very little development of the main characters. Good idea, not well executed.
September 21, 2018
Kind of a re-do of the Scarlet Pimpernel plot -- hero acts like a silly fop while secretly working for the crown and heroine slowly figures it out and loves him just the same -- only NOT Regency since it's set in Victoria's reign. Interesting character development as both the lead male and lead female grow up and some of the minor characters are hoots. Clean with romance and some sexual tension but no graphic soft porn.
October 7, 2018
Unsatisfactory Conclusion
The convoluted story ended as though in the middle of the tale. No explanation of the hero's 'mission' . No explanation of the staff involvement. And no possible explanation for the bizarre behavior of the hero's mother. Perhaps had I read the previous three books in the series it would have made sense, but I don't believe this was enough to entice me to purchase the rest.
The convoluted story ended as though in the middle of the tale. No explanation of the hero's 'mission' . No explanation of the staff involvement. And no possible explanation for the bizarre behavior of the hero's mother. Perhaps had I read the previous three books in the series it would have made sense, but I don't believe this was enough to entice me to purchase the rest.
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