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Can life ever be the same again? The start of a fabulous new series set at Trenwith Estate from bestselling author Rosie Clarke Hampshire, 1913

Amidst the glitz and glamour of England’s High Society, Sarah Trenwith is more of a wallflower living in the shadow of her beautiful sister Marianne.

But as the war approaches Sarah will have to step out of the place society and her family have assigned her if she’s to do her part and claim the love she always dreamed of from afar.

As heir to Lord Pelham's estate, Troy is not expected to join the army, but he’s determined to do his part. Yet the war exacts a toll that he never anticipated and the future he once imagined with his one true love seems forever from his grasp.

After the trials and tribulations of war, can two star crossed lovers finally find each other and true happiness?

Previously published as A Gentleman’s Honour by Linda Sole

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2023

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Rosie Clarke

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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for StinaStaffymum.
1,467 reviews1 follower
December 6, 2023
Another foray into Rosie Clarke this time against the backdrop of WW1, one of my favourite eras. But then I always enjoy Rosie Clarke in whatever era she writes. Her gentle pace and easy style makes for an enjoyable read whatever the book.

We meet Sarah Trenwith after her spoilt sister Marianne jilts fiance Troy Pelham for refusing to confide or confess to her, whichever she believed. The Trenwiths are from a privileged background and were raised to be ladies by parents who were firmly set in the old Victorian ways, lead by whatever society dictates. Sarah however was lead by her heart. And her heart was with Troy Pelham.

After being thrown over by the fickle and spoilt Marianne, Troy was banished from the Trenwith's estate with a feeling of relief knowing he never really loved Marianne. Sarah had always loved Troy from afar. But he was her sister's beau so she never pursued him. Now he was free and she would love nothing more than to see him again. When she went to visit her cousin Lucy, she found herself face to face with Troy who was staying on a neighbouring estate. It wasn't long before the banter shared by the pair turned into mild flirting and Troy found himself seeing Sarah with fresh eyes, rather than the younger overshadowed sister of the spoilt Marianne, who was now preparing her wedding to his best friend Barney Hope.

But although Marianne jilted Troy, he was still not welcome by Trenwith and certainly not seen as a suitable husband for Sarah. But Sarah loved Troy and was determined to marry him should he ask her. And ask her he did. But the road ahead for the couple was not to be easy...what with Sarah's father and the looming war.

Another delightfully easy read from Rosie Clarke that has been carefully researched for historical significance and society's limitations with a captivating romance at its forefront. I always enjoy my time with Rosie as she brings together the classes and ditches societal niceties in the face of war.

The first in a trilogy, I can't wait to read the next two to see where they will take me.

I would like to thank #RosieClarke, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #SarahsChoice in exchange for an honest review.

This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
3,255 reviews34 followers
December 7, 2023
Sarah’s Choice by Rosie Clarke is a bit of a departure for the author. It is a Victorian novel rather than a war story, although there is an element of that, as well. Sarah is the youngest of three. Her mother’s favorite is her brother, and her father’s is her sister, Marianne. Sarah had fallen in love with Troy when he had carried her to her room after a fall that had injured her ankle. But, alas, he became betrothed to her sister, the jewel of the season and much more beautiful than her sister. Sarah was heartbroken but vowed to live her life anyway. At the same house party where the engagement was announced, a woman revealed that her necklace had been stolen. As nothing of that sort had never happened in their home, Sarah’s parents were distraught. They searched all the servant’s rooms to no avail causing ill will. Only Sarah had seen Troy leaving the woman’s bedroom. She knew he had stolen nothing, but her sister was not as constant and gave him back his ring. Troy was angry. He though his betrothed should have trusted him. He left in a rage, but not as much of a rage as Sarah’s father. Broken engagements were a scandal and he didn’t like scandal.

Sarah was twice the woman and more of her sister. Her love was pure, and later, at the home of her friend where she was staying, she and Troy fell in love. He came to speak to her father and was summarily refused. He left and went and enlisted for the coming war. He wrote to her but the letter was kept from her. Sarah went to stay with a cousin, a more conservative cousin, her mother thought, but ran into Troy there and renewed their relationship and became engaged. But, I am telling too much of the story. This story went from heart-breaking to jubilant, several times, in the blink of an eye. Sarah spent her time volunteering by working in cottage hospitals doing what she could. She worked in several; her nickname was Angel. This was an enthralling story with many ups and downs for all of the characters. Clarke has outdone herself. As always she sees the world through rose-colored glasses, but that is fine with me. I still learned plenty about the beginning of World War I.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Sarah’s Choice by Boldwood Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts an opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #RosieClarke #SarahsChoice
Profile Image for Julie.
2,654 reviews43 followers
January 2, 2024
Sarah’s Choice is the first book in a sweeping new wartime series by much-loved best-selling author Rosie Clarke.

Sarah Trenwith has spent most of her life in the shadow of her beautiful sister, Marianne. A wallflower who is frequently overlooked and ignored because of her sibling, Sarah has always been expected to do what she’s told – until one day when she realises that she cannot continue to be biddable and obedient and must unshackle herself from her family’s expectations and fight for her heart’s desire and the life she wants.

As the heir to Lord Pelham’s estate, Troy is not expected to join the army. But the life of the idle aristocrat is not what Troy wants and with the gathering clouds of war fast approaching, he realises that he must do his bit for the war effort and do everything within his power to defeat the enemy. However, Troy hadn’t anticipated the toll the war would take on him – nor had he ever imagined the possibility of ever losing his one true love whom he hoped to spend the rest of his life with…

With war wreaking maximum havoc and destruction, will two star-crossed lovers ever find their way back to each other? Or will their love be another casualty of this cruel war?

Rosie Clarke is a fantastic storyteller who writes immersive, atmospheric and emotional sagas that whisk readers back in time with élan and flair. Sarah’s Choice is a dramatic, heart-wrenching and captivating romantic saga set during the First World War that is so poignant and engrossing readers will find themselves completely beguiled by it.

Rosie Clarke never disappoints and Sarah’s Choice is another must-read saga that should not be missed.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Louise.
332 reviews4 followers
December 18, 2023
Read as part of a book tour. This isn’t my usual choice of book, and I went in with few expectations but came out very happy.

The first in the Trenwith trilogy this was a lovely easy read, that still manages its share of love, heartbreak and family drama.

I loved that Sarah knew her own mind and stuck to it, refusing to make decisions just to save face.
The horrors of WW1 and lasting impact on soldiers and their loved ones is written with emotion and empathy

I didn’t watch period dramas until I watched Bridgerton, and maybe this is the book that’s converted me to historical romance!

Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and the bold book club for this opportunity

The blurb…
Can life ever be the same again? The start of a fabulous new series set at Trenwith Estate from bestselling author Rosie Clarke

Previously published as A Gentleman’s Honour by Linda Sole

Author Bio –
Rosie Clarke is a #1 bestselling saga writer whose most recent books include The Mulberry Lane series. She has written over 100 novels under different pseudonyms and is a RNA Award winner. She lives in Cambridgeshire.
Profile Image for Liza .
207 reviews9 followers
October 9, 2023
Sarah's Choice" by Rosie Clarke is a historical romance novel set in Hampshire in 1913, against the backdrop of England's High Society and the impending First World War. The story revolves around Sarah Trenwith, a seemingly overlooked wallflower in her family, overshadowed by her beautiful sister Marianne. The narrative takes a turn as the war approaches, and Sarah must step out of the role assigned to her by society and her family in order to pursue the love she's always yearned for.

I was easily able to connect with Sarah and understand her determination to do whatever it takes for her beloved.

Rosie Clarke's "Sarah's Choice" appears to be a well-researched and engaging historical romance that transports readers to a time of societal constraints and wartime challenges. While it has a slow start and some narrative complexity, the book is a recommended read, especially for those interested in the historical context and the resilient character of Sarah.

I recieved a copy of this book free from Netgalley for an honest review.
4,147 reviews22 followers
December 20, 2023
This was a first time read for me by this author and I very much enjoyed it. The story is set against the backdrop of WWI. Troy was set to marry Sarah's sister, Marianne, until she jilted him at the altar. Troy was more relieved than anything since he really didn't love Marianne. Sarah had always admired Troy from afar, but of course kept her feelings hidden because of his relationship with her sister. But when Troy and Sarah meet again, they both enjoy each other's company and Troy begins to see Sarah in a new light. When their relationship became serious, thanks to her sister's actions, Troy was not welcome in her family. But Sarah would not be deterred. With war on the horizon and her family's unwillingness to accept Troy, their road to happiness would surely be a bumpy one.
A nicely paced, well-written story that was a delight to read. The characters were lovely and I enjoyed getting to know them. This is the first of what looks to be a trilogy, and I look forward to reading the next book.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Piper.
1,774 reviews22 followers
December 1, 2023
arah's Choice" by Rosie Clarke is a historical romance set in Hampshire in 1913, during the time of England's upper-class society and the approaching First World War. The story focuses on Sarah Trenwith, who is often overlooked and overshadowed by her stunning sister Marianne. As the war draws closer, Sarah realizes that she must break free from the expectations imposed on her by society and her family to pursue her heart's desire.

I found it easy to relate to Sarah's character and her unwavering determination to do what is necessary for the sake of her beloved.

"Sarah's Decision" is a meticulously researched and captivating historical romance that immerses readers in a time of societal limitations and wartime challenges. Although the book starts off slowly and has some intricacies in the narrative, I highly recommend it, especially for those interested in the historical backdrop and the resilient nature of Sarah.

#SarahsChoice #booktour
Profile Image for Jeanette Fallon.
788 reviews16 followers
December 4, 2023
It wasn't too long ago that I was introduced to Rosie Clarke. I lean towards historical novels and this was right up my alley.
Sarah came from a privileged background. Her parents were led by what others might think and let society dictate their decisions. Sarah led life by her heart. She loved Troy with all her being. She stood by him even when times were difficult.

A great love story. The story is based during WWI. Women were saying goodbye to their husbands and boyfriends without knowing if they will return or not. Some women buckled under pressure. Others like Sarah did what they must and became stronger with time.

I enjoyed the book. How could not love Troy and Sarah?

I received this from Boldwood Books to review.

#rararesources

#blogtour

#RosieClarke
598 reviews9 followers
December 10, 2023
What fabulous characters Sarah Trenwith and Troy Pelham are! I absolutely loved them and thought that Sarah was so brave and is portrayed as a strong but compassionate woman. Even though she has always lived in the shadow of her sister Marianne she never lets it stop her from knowing her place or causing a fuss. She has even hidden how she really feels about Troy Pelham who is determined to do his bit and join the army. Will he survive and be able to make a life with his one true love Sarah? This is an easy to read historical romance that explores not only the main characters relationship but also those around them. Rosie Clarke had very obviously done some research on many aspects of life in that time in history.
Profile Image for Diane.
950 reviews16 followers
December 20, 2023
I do enjoy Rosie’s books so I was pleased about this new series coming out. The first book tells the story of Sarah Trenwith who has always been second best to her sister Marianne with her parents. Troy Pelham is a good looking man and a great catch Marianne wants to marry him for the status but Sarah truly falls for him. Set just before World War One this causes problems for the families when Marianne calls off her engagement to Troy and Sarah finally gets to spend time with Troy who quickly realises that Sarah is the girl for him. This causes upset within the Trenwith family seeing Sarah estranged from her parents just as Troy is off to War. If you like historical sagas you will love following Sarah’s struggles through the War.
Profile Image for Leanne.
2,157 reviews43 followers
December 2, 2023
A historical fiction story featuring Sarah who is often overshadowed by her sister Marianne. Sarah is deeply in love with Troy but they will have many trials and tribulations to be together and who knows if they will be strong enough to overcome adversity. This story felt different from anything else that I have read by Rosie Clarke but it was just as good. The characters are endearing and I came to truly appreciate Sarah as a kind and strong independent individual. The beginning of the story drew me in and it develops well from there. I felt a lot of anger towards certain characters but I also felt love for others. The start of what is set to be a exciting series!
17 reviews
January 29, 2025
I went into reading Sarah's Choice by Rosie Clarke, I expected a sweet romance. It is a little bit more explicit than I expected. The bones of the story and characters were good, but I, personally, wanted more depth. That said, this is the first book in a series, so the characters may be more fleshed out in additional books. It was an easy, pretty standard historical fiction romance perfect for a beach, poolside, or short flight read.
Profile Image for Sue Wallace .
7,399 reviews140 followers
December 5, 2023
Sarah's choice by Rosie Clarke.
Book 1 of the trenwith Trilogy.
Can Sarah and Troy find love after the war. Sarah who lives in the shadow of her beautiful sister Marianne. This was a really good read. I did like Sarah straight away. Marianne I didn't like. Troy grew on me. I did like Rose and how she helped Sarah. Im looking forward to the next book. 4*.
Profile Image for Kim.
479 reviews4 followers
April 15, 2024
I love Rosie Clark's saga's and this book is another triumph.

It is set around World War I.
Easy to read, page after page. Set, in Hampshire in 1913 with high-society men and Ladies who lost and found love.
It is a gentle saga of how the aristocracy lived and their daily lives.
The characters are well described helping you to picture them.
Lovely story well written.
Profile Image for Rhona Connor.
326 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2024
A good read.

A reprint under a different name. Originally written by Linda Sole. A Gentleman's Honour. Enjoyed the book, was okay. Not as good as the Harpers series or Mulberry Lane series. Just okay. But if you like this sort of book, then go ahead. It does have a HEA.
Recommended.
71 reviews
January 24, 2024
Quite good

I enjoyed this book but found she repeated herself a lot also I'm not a prude but I think it quite unnecessary to be so graphic about their lovemaking.
It wasn't like that in the Mulberry lane series or BlackBerry farm. That part spoilt it for me I have to say.
492 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2024
I do love a nice Rosie Clarke book to read. This book had me held from the beginning till the end. Sarah is such a strong character and I simply loved the man she wanted Troy. A five star recommended read from me.
Profile Image for Teresa “Teri”.
155 reviews18 followers
March 6, 2024
Count on Rosie Clarke

…to take you away from all the craziness in the world right now and give you a lovely story with a happy ending. I wish the next book in this trilogy was ready to be released!
Profile Image for Kathaleen A. Gregorich.
55 reviews
January 25, 2025
Rosie Clarke does it again!

Author Rosie Clarke new series is a delight to read! Starting just prior to WWl , where things are changing from the Victorian age to the 20th century, we meet a delightful cast of characters! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
158 reviews
January 21, 2024
Excellent

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it, cannot wait until the next one comes out in the trilogy
3 reviews1 follower
April 9, 2024
Rosie Clarke excels again ,

Enjoyed this lots a good story, looking forward to second one , Sarah, such a great character you feel like you know her
Profile Image for Leona.
1,501 reviews
April 11, 2024
The first book in a new series by Rosie Clarke and one which I really enjoyed and look forward to reading more in the series .
Profile Image for Fi.
696 reviews
July 23, 2024
I enjoyed this so much, I read it in one sitting!
117 reviews
September 2, 2024
Started this but could not get into it it. I think over the yea red iv read nearly every ww1 And 2. Fiction book published and just needed something different. But over all a nice book
Profile Image for Tammy Jones.
60 reviews
November 22, 2025
Sweet Read!!

Sarah's Choice is a easy read. I didn't fell like it was one of her best books. But I did enjoy it. The story line is somewhat predictable. Over all a good read.
Profile Image for Karen.
584 reviews5 followers
January 7, 2024
If you've got a thing for love stories set in the trenches of war, Rosie Clarke's got the goods, and Sarah's Choice is no exception! Set in 1913, it's the tale of Sarah Trenwith, who's always felt like the second fiddle to her sister, Marianne. Finally, it's her turn to shine and find a man that ticks all her parents' boxes.

Enter Troy Pelham, who should be helping out with his father’s estate but instead decides to hop on the war wagon. Sadly, life's about to get tougher than a pair of army boots for him.

The characters are high society, but some are snobbier than others. My favourite is Sarah who is kind-hearted, humble, and always ready to forgive. So, grab your copy and let the wartime love story commence!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews

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