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Manors and Mysteries #1
Too Good to Be True
Heiress Daphne Ryan is uncertain about spending a week at the sprawling country estate of the family of her sister’s boyfriend. For starters, she doesn’t get along with her sister. Then there’s the fact his family is old, wealthy aristocracy, and Daphne’s from brash, new American money.
Mostly, it’s that everyone knows Duncroft House is haunted by the ghost of a 1920s film star who died there. Deemed an accident, for nearly a century, people are sure it was murder.
Daphne doesn’t like scary things, say…haunted houses. She likes it less when strange things start happening to her when she arrives.
But she finds she has a surprising ally.
Ian Alcott, the heir to the earldom, is rich, gorgeous and just as concerned about the frightening things that keep befalling Daphne at his ancestral family home. As he moves to protect her, Daphne finds he’s also funny, kind and sexy as hell.
Indeed, he just might be too good to be true.
Mostly, it’s that everyone knows Duncroft House is haunted by the ghost of a 1920s film star who died there. Deemed an accident, for nearly a century, people are sure it was murder.
Daphne doesn’t like scary things, say…haunted houses. She likes it less when strange things start happening to her when she arrives.
But she finds she has a surprising ally.
Ian Alcott, the heir to the earldom, is rich, gorgeous and just as concerned about the frightening things that keep befalling Daphne at his ancestral family home. As he moves to protect her, Daphne finds he’s also funny, kind and sexy as hell.
Indeed, he just might be too good to be true.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2023
530 people are currently reading
1083 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Ashley
136 books39.5k followersKristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
January 2, 2024
KA has done this genre before much earlier in her writing, I don't think this book is as good as those.
I really wanted to love it but I found it rambling.
First of all I appreciate reading is escapism but with finances tight for many, another billionaire romance, really.
The Hero is wealthy in his own right, having built up a business and worked hard and he is to inherit a title. But the heroine is also wealthy, her father built his wealth from scratch.
It's just very out of touch with the normal person but because the book is about British aristocracy you can let that go.
They got to stay at the Hero's family estate which is likened to Buckingham Palace so as KA is prone to do, we had pages and pages and pages of descriptions, deco, art work, outfits, as one has to dress for each meal. There were several wings to the house, named by themes, so drinks, birds or something, tbh I lost interest and skipped several pages.... yawn.
The heroine is divorced, the Hero has been pictured with many women and we are reminded a few times he's had a plethora of women but no details.
Sadly he did 'date' the heroine's sister, 2 dates, no sex. The sister then made a play for the Hero's brother.
There is some ex drama, and she is very bitchy but the Hero really puts her in her place.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine. Once they meet he is interested.
I was relieved we didn't have him have a change of heart mid way through and break it off, he has a massive issue with his father as his father constantly cheats so he's a bit scared he will end up like him.
Ghost mystery story, loads of family/house history which is very long and rambling.
It's based in Britain so is supposed be very British, this is based on the author having lived in Britain for a time in the past, some things are accurate, some things not so much, I suppose it depends which part you live and which part of society you mixed with.
I just didn’t feel she packed the emotional investment or punch she has in the past which is one of the reasons I love her old work.
HEA. Epilogue update on all the characters.
As a side note, I read this as a whole novel but the author released it initially on Kindle Vella, which is a chapter by chapter release. I'm not a fan, I couldn't keep invested reading it bit by bit.
I'm not sure if that option is still available after the release of the whole book.
I really wanted to love it but I found it rambling.
First of all I appreciate reading is escapism but with finances tight for many, another billionaire romance, really.
The Hero is wealthy in his own right, having built up a business and worked hard and he is to inherit a title. But the heroine is also wealthy, her father built his wealth from scratch.
It's just very out of touch with the normal person but because the book is about British aristocracy you can let that go.
They got to stay at the Hero's family estate which is likened to Buckingham Palace so as KA is prone to do, we had pages and pages and pages of descriptions, deco, art work, outfits, as one has to dress for each meal. There were several wings to the house, named by themes, so drinks, birds or something, tbh I lost interest and skipped several pages.... yawn.
The heroine is divorced, the Hero has been pictured with many women and we are reminded a few times he's had a plethora of women but no details.
Sadly he did 'date' the heroine's sister, 2 dates, no sex. The sister then made a play for the Hero's brother.
There is some ex drama, and she is very bitchy but the Hero really puts her in her place.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine. Once they meet he is interested.
I was relieved we didn't have him have a change of heart mid way through and break it off, he has a massive issue with his father as his father constantly cheats so he's a bit scared he will end up like him.
Ghost mystery story, loads of family/house history which is very long and rambling.
It's based in Britain so is supposed be very British, this is based on the author having lived in Britain for a time in the past, some things are accurate, some things not so much, I suppose it depends which part you live and which part of society you mixed with.
I just didn’t feel she packed the emotional investment or punch she has in the past which is one of the reasons I love her old work.
HEA. Epilogue update on all the characters.
As a side note, I read this as a whole novel but the author released it initially on Kindle Vella, which is a chapter by chapter release. I'm not a fan, I couldn't keep invested reading it bit by bit.
I'm not sure if that option is still available after the release of the whole book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2023
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building:💒💒
Heart & Feels💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter:😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨
First Impressions
Too Good To Be True on the surface is a contemporary romance with a blend of mystery and intrigue and has a atmospheric feeling of gothic vibes at times. Its a story that is set in England. I do think this book is ONLY for those that enjoy Ashley's modern style writing. If you are looking for something like her classic feel of stories, this unfortunately is NOT it. In fact, this book book was a hot mess. I am so baffled by the high ratings. This was NOT a good book. The mystery was solid and is the only motivator to keep up with the story. If you like a story that is preachy for politics than sure you will probably love it. Don't we all love to be lectured in a romance? Yep that isn't for me and it doesn't matter how much I have loved an author.
What I Loved
I did love their first interactions with each other in the very beginning. There was some sparks of the classic style but the more you get into the book, the less you receive of that. The mystery surrounding what is happening with the rest of Ian's family was really fascinating and the history behind the manor was so intriguing. This plot is what kept me interested in the story. So if you like a good mystery and don't mind her modernistic style, then you might enjoy it.
What I Struggled With
*Sigh* this book was a hard one to get through. I almost came close to DNF'ing this book. I wanted to love this one. I was told it was very similar to her classic novels. So I went into it expecting it to be like that but it was NOT. The beginning it actually had glimpses so I felt optimistic starting it out, but steadily those elements faded into the background and what became more prominent was worse. There was so much preaching type of elements of politics and feminism and men are bad in this book. The hero goes from maybe an alpha to a tame beta. There was this constantly feeling of cynicism in this book. It was almost like KA is telling readers how awful relationships and love are but yet here is a romance but not much promise for the future. This new modern style from her is just not my cup of tea. And I think from now on I will not be reading her. This book was just a mess and is the last straw for me. There was also this feeling of this author attacking women who live a traditional lifestyle. Yeah sorry I am just not going to enjoy that. And for those that think this is ANYTHING like her classic books, you really need to look at what you are reading because they are as different as fire and ice. I think the classic KA style of books are dead and she has lost something so precious and unique in her writing.
Overall View
A true disappointment. A story that had such promise but didn't deliver like I know this author is capable of. Its obvious she has lost her magic that won so many hearts.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Mystery
Character Types: Beta Hero, Billionaire, Socialite Heroine
Themes: Gothic vibes, House Party, Class Difference
Tropes: Slow Burn, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
1st Pov
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Mostly Plot Conflict
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
October 23, 2023
3.5 stars
An English manor home with secrets. A family history mired in murder and mayhem. And a steamy romance just waiting to erupt...
Concept:★★★★
Pacing/Plot:★★
Enjoyment:★★★ 1/2
Before I get into anything at all about this book, I'd like to state for the record that I'm still a Kristen Ashley mega fan. Not a single month goes by without me reading a new KA book or rereading an old favorite for comfort. So if this is the first review of mine/others that you're seeing for a book from this author, I encourage you to check out my other reviews. Just because this one didn't become a new 5-star favorite read of mine doesn't reflect on my very high ratings of her other books. Check those out, and try this one for yourself!
Daphne Ryan, American billionaire heiress to her retail tycoon father, is on her way to a remote English manor house with her stepmom, Lou. They're both not looking forward to their destination. But family duty calls....
Portia is Daphne's spoiled younger sister. The one who's a pain in the ass, pouts and acts out to get what she wants, and is constantly at odds with her sister because according to their late father's iron-clad will, it is Daphne and Lou who hold the strings to Portia's inheritance.
Portia's asked Daphne and Lou to come to Duncroft, the English estate of her new boyfriend and his family, to impress the parents and show off how well she's doing in life to get Daphne to loosen the noose on her money. They've been invited for an entire week. No distractions—just Portia, her family, and David's entire family. At Duncroft.
Mhmm, awkward yet?
Add into the mix: Ian Alcott. David's older, sexier brother. Ian hates his role in the aristocracy, he's had enough of David and Portia's bullshit, and he's been invited to stir up further trouble. And he's got his eyes on new prey... Daphne.
But Duncroft isn't just a silent setting for this complex family drama played out over one idyllic week. This manor house has secrets, and it goes bump in the night. And it has some unsolved mysteries that it wants solved.
Daphne and Ian are about to get a whole lot more than they bargained for in this week. And it's going to get steamy...
Too Good to Be True was an entertaining read. Kind of like spending a fun week with characters playing house in those stately estates featured in our favorite British TV shows and movies, I enjoyed the vibes of this story a lot. Who murdered the mistress off of the balcony? Was it the lord of the manor in the Turquoise Room? The younger brother in the Brandy Room? Etc. Etc. As a Clue, Pride and Prejudice, and Agatha Christie fan, I had a very fun time with these fun little details and the engaging mini-mysteries.
In terms of the actual plot and romance—sigh, okay, you've got me. I had a slightly harder time here.
I think it was the fact that this full-length novel was originally written as a Kindle Vella. The mini-episodic story structure—Vellas are produced in short segments, like old newspaper story installments, over time—was definitely still at play here in this longer novel. As a marathon/endurance reader who reads books in as few sessions as possible, this was a hard sell for me as I was very aware of that structure going in and it felt like it repeated its own structure ad nauseum in the middle of the narrative.
However, that being said, I think this a fun read for those who just want to rest their brain a while with these fun characters in a very classic setting. There's a dash of mystery, a dash of historical, a dash of family drama, and a dash of steamy romance. It is a very fun sampler platter of a lot of good tropes!
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
An English manor home with secrets. A family history mired in murder and mayhem. And a steamy romance just waiting to erupt...
Concept:★★★★
Pacing/Plot:★★
Enjoyment:★★★ 1/2
Before I get into anything at all about this book, I'd like to state for the record that I'm still a Kristen Ashley mega fan. Not a single month goes by without me reading a new KA book or rereading an old favorite for comfort. So if this is the first review of mine/others that you're seeing for a book from this author, I encourage you to check out my other reviews. Just because this one didn't become a new 5-star favorite read of mine doesn't reflect on my very high ratings of her other books. Check those out, and try this one for yourself!
Daphne Ryan, American billionaire heiress to her retail tycoon father, is on her way to a remote English manor house with her stepmom, Lou. They're both not looking forward to their destination. But family duty calls....
Portia is Daphne's spoiled younger sister. The one who's a pain in the ass, pouts and acts out to get what she wants, and is constantly at odds with her sister because according to their late father's iron-clad will, it is Daphne and Lou who hold the strings to Portia's inheritance.
Portia's asked Daphne and Lou to come to Duncroft, the English estate of her new boyfriend and his family, to impress the parents and show off how well she's doing in life to get Daphne to loosen the noose on her money. They've been invited for an entire week. No distractions—just Portia, her family, and David's entire family. At Duncroft.
Mhmm, awkward yet?
Add into the mix: Ian Alcott. David's older, sexier brother. Ian hates his role in the aristocracy, he's had enough of David and Portia's bullshit, and he's been invited to stir up further trouble. And he's got his eyes on new prey... Daphne.
But Duncroft isn't just a silent setting for this complex family drama played out over one idyllic week. This manor house has secrets, and it goes bump in the night. And it has some unsolved mysteries that it wants solved.
Daphne and Ian are about to get a whole lot more than they bargained for in this week. And it's going to get steamy...
Too Good to Be True was an entertaining read. Kind of like spending a fun week with characters playing house in those stately estates featured in our favorite British TV shows and movies, I enjoyed the vibes of this story a lot. Who murdered the mistress off of the balcony? Was it the lord of the manor in the Turquoise Room? The younger brother in the Brandy Room? Etc. Etc. As a Clue, Pride and Prejudice, and Agatha Christie fan, I had a very fun time with these fun little details and the engaging mini-mysteries.
In terms of the actual plot and romance—sigh, okay, you've got me. I had a slightly harder time here.
I think it was the fact that this full-length novel was originally written as a Kindle Vella. The mini-episodic story structure—Vellas are produced in short segments, like old newspaper story installments, over time—was definitely still at play here in this longer novel. As a marathon/endurance reader who reads books in as few sessions as possible, this was a hard sell for me as I was very aware of that structure going in and it felt like it repeated its own structure ad nauseum in the middle of the narrative.
However, that being said, I think this a fun read for those who just want to rest their brain a while with these fun characters in a very classic setting. There's a dash of mystery, a dash of historical, a dash of family drama, and a dash of steamy romance. It is a very fun sampler platter of a lot of good tropes!
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
November 1, 2023
Absolutely loved this one!! Could not put it down. It was exactly what I needed. I love reading romance but romance with some mystery and suspense.. that's just awesome.
September 22, 2024
6% in and she's already talking shoes. Okay, I googled them. Sophia Webster.
61% KA needs to apply Coco Chanel's advice, Before you leave the house, you should look in the mirror and remove one item. There are so many ghost couples, ghosts and suicides and I can't keep track! Is there a family ghost tree? KA needs to remove a ghost or two. David and Virginia. David and Joan. Another Joan and Thomas...and Cuthbert. And Dorothy. She added another couple after this point.
Review
Done, finally.
KA channels an old house party mystery that movie makers LOVED to make in the 60s and 70s. Oodles of atmosphere, way too many ghosts, and a love story with lots of nighties. Can't have a Gothic romance without a girl in a negligee. The evil-doer was a disappointment, and as always in dealing with Gothic horror one must ask why they don't just LEAVE!
All it needed was Roddy McDowell to walk by in a turtleneck and bangs.
61% KA needs to apply Coco Chanel's advice, Before you leave the house, you should look in the mirror and remove one item. There are so many ghost couples, ghosts and suicides and I can't keep track! Is there a family ghost tree? KA needs to remove a ghost or two. David and Virginia. David and Joan. Another Joan and Thomas...and Cuthbert. And Dorothy. She added another couple after this point.
Review
Done, finally.
KA channels an old house party mystery that movie makers LOVED to make in the 60s and 70s. Oodles of atmosphere, way too many ghosts, and a love story with lots of nighties. Can't have a Gothic romance without a girl in a negligee. The evil-doer was a disappointment, and as always in dealing with Gothic horror one must ask why they don't just LEAVE!
All it needed was Roddy McDowell to walk by in a turtleneck and bangs.
December 10, 2023
3.5 stars
November 1, 2023
Soooo good!
I have been a fan of Kristen Ashley's books for many years. She has created so many books that I LOVE, including this one. TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE grabbed me from the first page and didn't let me go for one second. It was filled with so much suspense, family drama, and HEAT.
Daphne Ryan has been requested at Duncroft House for a week to meet her sister, Portia's boyfriend. What ever happened to meeting the family over a nice dinner? Well, the Alcotts aren't your regular family, and Duncroft House isn't just a house...there are claims that it's a Haunted one, which is not something Daphne is a fan of. Scary isn't her thing. So when things start happening at the house while she's there, let's say it's not good.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTGTBT
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
I have been a fan of Kristen Ashley's books for many years. She has created so many books that I LOVE, including this one. TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE grabbed me from the first page and didn't let me go for one second. It was filled with so much suspense, family drama, and HEAT.
Daphne Ryan has been requested at Duncroft House for a week to meet her sister, Portia's boyfriend. What ever happened to meeting the family over a nice dinner? Well, the Alcotts aren't your regular family, and Duncroft House isn't just a house...there are claims that it's a Haunted one, which is not something Daphne is a fan of. Scary isn't her thing. So when things start happening at the house while she's there, let's say it's not good.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTGTBT
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
December 28, 2023
TPAM BR 12/4/23
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Interesting. Last 10% Let Me Down
4 Solid Stars
Up to about 85-90% I really enjoyed this story.
It could have been better if!
KA hadn't been bent on making sure there are no ghost involved yet supernatural elements continued to the last page.
AND
She would knock off the Soapbox Preaching.
It's been a while since I have read a 5 star story of hers. Almost everything has been 4 Stars.
There's a reason for that and those reasons are very evident in this story.
It could have been Five Star deliciousness. But it's a 4 star story by the end.
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Interesting. Last 10% Let Me Down
4 Solid Stars
Up to about 85-90% I really enjoyed this story.
It could have been better if!
KA hadn't been bent on making sure there are no ghost involved yet supernatural elements continued to the last page.
AND
She would knock off the Soapbox Preaching.
It's been a while since I have read a 5 star story of hers. Almost everything has been 4 Stars.
There's a reason for that and those reasons are very evident in this story.
It could have been Five Star deliciousness. But it's a 4 star story by the end.
October 12, 2023
It's been a minute since I've read an honest-to-goodness ROMANCE! Where the couple feels true and all-encompassing. There is a thread of mystery and edge that lends itself to the current season, (fall and Halloween) but the true romance... the gentle and thrilling build of tempo and longing. Sigh.... It's bookish perfection.
~Tanja
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~Tanja
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
November 7, 2023
This book is a hard one to categorize. It isn’t really a mystery, it isn’t scary and doesn’t have any paranormal aspects. It does have a very bland kinda romance… Yet, it still has the lovely flow that fans of Kristen love (and I’m one of them). So, while it bordered on boring at times, I still enjoyed the experience.
November 4, 2023
Quickish Review
I have been a longtime fan of KA’s Ghosts and Reincarnation series and I think this fits in well with it. The mystery doesn’t resolve too early and I enjoyed the romance. I read it pretty much in one night. There’s a lot of good moments, the drama and tension is there it’s just not among my fave KA couples, but to be fair that’s a really tall order. All in all, I enjoyed it.
I have been a longtime fan of KA’s Ghosts and Reincarnation series and I think this fits in well with it. The mystery doesn’t resolve too early and I enjoyed the romance. I read it pretty much in one night. There’s a lot of good moments, the drama and tension is there it’s just not among my fave KA couples, but to be fair that’s a really tall order. All in all, I enjoyed it.
May 6, 2024
This story could make a great Hallmark movie. Really.
December 21, 2023
*3 ARISTOCRATIC STARS*
I'm not sure if I didn't like this because I listened to this as an audiobook or if I just wasn't that impressed with the story.
I did manage to finish this rather quickly. (This is actually the first audiobook I managed to finish, proud of myself!)
I just didn't really feel a connection to any of the characters. This was a bit too much insta-love for me and we all know I prefer a slow burn. I also don't know if it was because of the narrator, but Ian actually made me cringe sometimes and Daphne felt very superficial even though she was supposed to be anything but. I also was less than impressed with the big reveal at the end and the way things came to a head. It was a bit of a letdown really.
I did rather enjoy the setting in the manor and the mysterious vibes, I just wasn't that impressed with what Kristen Ashley decided to do with it.
I'm not sure if I didn't like this because I listened to this as an audiobook or if I just wasn't that impressed with the story.
I did manage to finish this rather quickly. (This is actually the first audiobook I managed to finish, proud of myself!)
I just didn't really feel a connection to any of the characters. This was a bit too much insta-love for me and we all know I prefer a slow burn. I also don't know if it was because of the narrator, but Ian actually made me cringe sometimes and Daphne felt very superficial even though she was supposed to be anything but. I also was less than impressed with the big reveal at the end and the way things came to a head. It was a bit of a letdown really.
I did rather enjoy the setting in the manor and the mysterious vibes, I just wasn't that impressed with what Kristen Ashley decided to do with it.
November 1, 2023
I normally really like this author, but this one was boring for me. Maybe it was the fussiness of titled English culture, maybe it was because I didn't like the siblings, they were so clueless about life, it could also be due to the rampant adultery by the older generation that was spoken about like it was a normal think. It didn't help that for the start Daphne and Ian didn't really like each other, I didn't see their chemistry, so that made it hard for me to really get behind them as a couple. Then there was the slight paranormal aspect of things, which never got really flushed out. In the end, I was glad when the book was over.
November 9, 2023
3.5 stars 🌟
Started off slow but got better. I was also confused with keeping a track of all the historical stories.
Started off slow but got better. I was also confused with keeping a track of all the historical stories.
January 8, 2024
Alright. It’s been almost a week since I finished and although I started my review, I never finished it. And some of what I didn’t like about the book makes more sense now that I’ve stepped away from it. I think I was comparing this too much to KA’s Ghosts and Reincarnation books. It had that sort of feel, the house the money the mystery and maybe even a little bit of the ghosts. But this was not part of this series and what I kept forgetting was this was meant to be read as a mystery and I’ve read enough of those that I should have understood the tone better.
So, another thing. I totally forgot this was released as a serial. I wonder if that format would have worked better for me with this book? I didn’t want to read it like that when it started being released, I just didn’t think reading in installments would have been my thing but maybe, just maybe, this story would have been better for it. Not being able to read it on my Kindle was a deal breaker though. But I can see how this story maybe would have benefited from the wait, what is going to happen next sort of feel. The book took place over a week so getting each day or however it was broken up might have just made it a better read.
But I don’t know. The start was rocky, and the setup just didn’t make much sense. The first “fright” seemed out of character, and I never really understood why it happened. It was explained, yes, but it all just seemed odd.
It was definitely not the KA I am used to. I mean, there were moments, but the overall feel just felt different. Most especially Daphne. I never got a feel for her. We found things out about her throughout the story instead of being introduced upfront and it made her seem sort of vague or elusive or something. Actually, they were all sort of like that. It was probably done to add to the mystery, but it just made me a little frustrated. It’s hard to care when you don’t know. But, I do think it was all set up like this purposely, as mystery sort of books are, I just couldn’t really get into it. The house, the mystery, the history, all that worked but I never really got a true feel for Daphne, where she came from who she was.
But, again a but, if I think about this like a sort of Clue or Knives Out and focus more on that part of the story, I did enjoy it. I like that KA is trying her hand at different sub genres but honestly, I feel she sort of already has dipped her toes in them but just didn’t label them that was and maybe I’d like her to add more mystery but go back to her roots. I don’t know. These newer books all have an agenda that I don’t always jive with and some of the magic is missing.
She’s still the Queen and I can’t imagine a day I won’t at least give the book a try.
So, another thing. I totally forgot this was released as a serial. I wonder if that format would have worked better for me with this book? I didn’t want to read it like that when it started being released, I just didn’t think reading in installments would have been my thing but maybe, just maybe, this story would have been better for it. Not being able to read it on my Kindle was a deal breaker though. But I can see how this story maybe would have benefited from the wait, what is going to happen next sort of feel. The book took place over a week so getting each day or however it was broken up might have just made it a better read.
But I don’t know. The start was rocky, and the setup just didn’t make much sense. The first “fright” seemed out of character, and I never really understood why it happened. It was explained, yes, but it all just seemed odd.
It was definitely not the KA I am used to. I mean, there were moments, but the overall feel just felt different. Most especially Daphne. I never got a feel for her. We found things out about her throughout the story instead of being introduced upfront and it made her seem sort of vague or elusive or something. Actually, they were all sort of like that. It was probably done to add to the mystery, but it just made me a little frustrated. It’s hard to care when you don’t know. But, I do think it was all set up like this purposely, as mystery sort of books are, I just couldn’t really get into it. The house, the mystery, the history, all that worked but I never really got a true feel for Daphne, where she came from who she was.
But, again a but, if I think about this like a sort of Clue or Knives Out and focus more on that part of the story, I did enjoy it. I like that KA is trying her hand at different sub genres but honestly, I feel she sort of already has dipped her toes in them but just didn’t label them that was and maybe I’d like her to add more mystery but go back to her roots. I don’t know. These newer books all have an agenda that I don’t always jive with and some of the magic is missing.
She’s still the Queen and I can’t imagine a day I won’t at least give the book a try.
October 14, 2023
5 stars. I’m seeing some mixed reviews for this one, and I think that’s due, in part, to the fact that it was originally released via Kindle Vella… which is a different reading format. Too Good to be True is going to be made available for wide release on Halloween, and I think that readers who experience this book in the traditional format will appreciate it more.
Too Good to be True was a little slow to start. It jumps right into things, in the sense that Daphne just arrives at Duncroft to meet her sister’s boyfriend and his family. Things don’t really get going for me, however, until we meet Ian, who is Daphne’s love interest. And like I said, I takes a hot minute for that to happen. But once it does, the plot finally starts to take shape (Duncroft may or may not be haunted by the women who were killed there, and who appear to currently be targeting Daphne) and the romance developed. Ian is kind of a quintessential KA hero. He’s very alpha, very bossy, and very protective. And I loved it!!! He def felt like a vintage KA hero, complete with chin lifts (who knew I missed those so much!- iykyk). Honestly, I think this book is perfect for the season. The murder mystery aspect of it was compelling (and bonus because I totally didn’t figure things out), KA crafted such a perfectly gothic atmosphere, and I loved the romance. This is one of my favorite books from her recent publications. I’ve read a ton of KA’s backlist, but I haven’t read the ghosts of somerset books, but TGTBT has me thinking I should cycle back and read them. Like I said, it was a little slow to start, but once I got to about 20 or 25%, it became unputdownable. If you’re in the mood for a gothic romance that’s light on the spook (but does have some), you should absolutely check out TGTBT.
Thank you so much to Kristen and her team for sending me an ARC copy of this in exchange for my honest review.
Too Good to be True was a little slow to start. It jumps right into things, in the sense that Daphne just arrives at Duncroft to meet her sister’s boyfriend and his family. Things don’t really get going for me, however, until we meet Ian, who is Daphne’s love interest. And like I said, I takes a hot minute for that to happen. But once it does, the plot finally starts to take shape (Duncroft may or may not be haunted by the women who were killed there, and who appear to currently be targeting Daphne) and the romance developed. Ian is kind of a quintessential KA hero. He’s very alpha, very bossy, and very protective. And I loved it!!! He def felt like a vintage KA hero, complete with chin lifts (who knew I missed those so much!- iykyk). Honestly, I think this book is perfect for the season. The murder mystery aspect of it was compelling (and bonus because I totally didn’t figure things out), KA crafted such a perfectly gothic atmosphere, and I loved the romance. This is one of my favorite books from her recent publications. I’ve read a ton of KA’s backlist, but I haven’t read the ghosts of somerset books, but TGTBT has me thinking I should cycle back and read them. Like I said, it was a little slow to start, but once I got to about 20 or 25%, it became unputdownable. If you’re in the mood for a gothic romance that’s light on the spook (but does have some), you should absolutely check out TGTBT.
Thank you so much to Kristen and her team for sending me an ARC copy of this in exchange for my honest review.
November 3, 2023
I found the story to be repetitive and boring. I didn't care for the siblings and so much of the book was about them, along with Duncroft and it's previous inhabitant. I found the history of Duncroft interesting at first but it quickly grew tiresome and repetitive. The constant reference to the time of 3:03 was ridiculous. I found myself rolling my eyes every time it was mentioned. This book was clearly contemporary and the attempt to add a slightly paranormal aspect just didn't ring true.
I liked Ian and Daphne but I didn't care for the storyline. I think Daphne was too focused on the past history of the house. Her and Ian's romance was lacking. Too much of the story was focused on Duncroft, it's past inhabitants and Daniel and Portia.
I liked Ian and Daphne but I didn't care for the storyline. I think Daphne was too focused on the past history of the house. Her and Ian's romance was lacking. Too much of the story was focused on Duncroft, it's past inhabitants and Daniel and Portia.
November 15, 2023
I loved the pace of the book and the way the story interweaved past history with present . Great story & characters lived it
November 5, 2023
3.75/5
sometimes all you need is kristen ashley's ott male character, her strong female lead, good banter and a fun little (dramatic) mystery to get you through an exam season.
sometimes all you need is kristen ashley's ott male character, her strong female lead, good banter and a fun little (dramatic) mystery to get you through an exam season.
November 7, 2023
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK or decent reads.
========================
I swear I was waiting for Scoby Doo to appear at the end and Fred to unmask the culprit. LOL!
Another story where millionaires are signaling virtues and living very differently from what they preach. Another missed opportunity to condemn the fashion industry and the lack of sustainability and exploitation of labor.
I was more interested in the story full of intrigues, murders and dramas and tragedies of the ancestors than in the story of the heroes.
But at least I managed to get to the end of the book.
========================
I swear I was waiting for Scoby Doo to appear at the end and Fred to unmask the culprit. LOL!
Another story where millionaires are signaling virtues and living very differently from what they preach. Another missed opportunity to condemn the fashion industry and the lack of sustainability and exploitation of labor.
I was more interested in the story full of intrigues, murders and dramas and tragedies of the ancestors than in the story of the heroes.
But at least I managed to get to the end of the book.
December 3, 2023
It wanted to give the KA who wrote Penmort Castle or Lacybourne Manor, of the Ghosts and Reincarnation Series, written over a decade ago, but ...
The plot rambles in a cute, KA way, but not so cute in keeping my interest in the main characters, which were a bit too "caricature" of past KA characters in settings like the Ghosts and Reincarnation Series. The love interests depicted in the shrouded backstories of the hero's aristocrat family history were more intriguing and titillating than the love between the hero and heroine themselves (Ian and Daphne).
As I read/listened, I wondered if I would have been more satisfied with reading a continuing installment of the Ghosts and Reincarnation Series *which I loved* or even more satisfied if KA had chucked Too Good to be True and just wrote the full story of Ian's ancestor, Wolf, and his medieval epic love story with his Alice: straight historical romance! Because reading about the rich Ian and the well off Daphne falling in love while ensconced in an old English castle/mansion, wasting money away on pompous English nobility pomp and circumstance in these contemporary times ...these difficult modern times(?)... Was. Not. It!
If I had read about it and it was set in medieval times, then I could escape more and get into the story.
Happy Reading.
The plot rambles in a cute, KA way, but not so cute in keeping my interest in the main characters, which were a bit too "caricature" of past KA characters in settings like the Ghosts and Reincarnation Series. The love interests depicted in the shrouded backstories of the hero's aristocrat family history were more intriguing and titillating than the love between the hero and heroine themselves (Ian and Daphne).
As I read/listened, I wondered if I would have been more satisfied with reading a continuing installment of the Ghosts and Reincarnation Series *which I loved* or even more satisfied if KA had chucked Too Good to be True and just wrote the full story of Ian's ancestor, Wolf, and his medieval epic love story with his Alice: straight historical romance! Because reading about the rich Ian and the well off Daphne falling in love while ensconced in an old English castle/mansion, wasting money away on pompous English nobility pomp and circumstance in these contemporary times ...these difficult modern times(?)... Was. Not. It!
If I had read about it and it was set in medieval times, then I could escape more and get into the story.
Happy Reading.
April 9, 2024
Reread: So Avenging Angel was released on the 2nd April and I like to keep my new KA's for the weekends so I can savour them and nap between chapters and perhaps a glass of wine here and there but this weekend I had visitors so I didn't get to read my new KA but I had a taste for her so Too Good to be True reread it was.
I still really like this, it's fun and gives me feelings and kind of makes me want to read some historical romance or watch some Downton Abbey!
________________________
Am I allowed to call this old school KA?
It felt like old school KA and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
It gave hints of Ghosts and Reincarnation Complete Series which is a real favourite if mine!
This was originally one of those chapter per week thingies which I've no interest in to be honest but I kind of liked how the chapters ended within this when reading it whole. Some fun cliffhangers which made putting it down super hard. I'd read more of these chapter thingies once they are completed!
I still really like this, it's fun and gives me feelings and kind of makes me want to read some historical romance or watch some Downton Abbey!
________________________
Am I allowed to call this old school KA?
It felt like old school KA and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
It gave hints of Ghosts and Reincarnation Complete Series which is a real favourite if mine!
This was originally one of those chapter per week thingies which I've no interest in to be honest but I kind of liked how the chapters ended within this when reading it whole. Some fun cliffhangers which made putting it down super hard. I'd read more of these chapter thingies once they are completed!
November 16, 2023
Too Good To Be True by Kristen Ashley
Standalone romantic mystery.
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
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Kristen Ashley has been my favorite author for about 12 years now. I have read *almost* all of her books except the last two in the Ghosts & Reincarnation series. Why? because I am so not into the fancy, stuffy British estates. So please know my preconceived opinions for this review, because Too Good To Be True is all about a fancy, stuffy British estate.
Daphne Ryan is a billionaire heiress who, with her young stepmom, is going to an English manor house in the middle of nowhere for a week. Her spoiled sister Portia, with whom she is not very close, has insisted they come to Duncroft House to meet her boyfriend David’s family. Daphne is also her sister’s trustee, and Portia wants to get into her trust account.
Ian Alcott is David’s older brother who was also there for the week. Ian isn’t a fan of his role in the aristocracy and has made his own fortune, but he is the official owner of the estate. He wasn’t thrilled to be there until he laid eyes on their guest.
“I’m not a game player,” I warned.
“I know this about you.”
“Can I assume you’ve investigated me…us?”
“You’re a size eighteen and you have very good taste in underwear and very poor taste in men.”
Duncroft House has had lots of “accidental” deaths over the generations and was rumored to be haunted so when strange things started happening to Daphne, it sparked an investigation not only into the current happenings but the past ones as well. Too Good To Be True kind of felt like a game of Clue with multiple mysteries and a little romance thrown in.
Likes:
•I loved Daphne and her stepmom as well.
•Ian was sexy AF and I liked him as well.
•She was a size 18 and it wasn’t a major thing, she was still gorgeous and sexy.
•I loved the romance between Daphne and Ian.
Dislikes:
•I was bored. It’s a HUGE house and each room had its own theme and we got in-depth descriptions of each.
•We didn’t only have a current romance and mystery, but several more from years past and I had trouble keeping track of who was who in the past.
•So much house and family history!
•There were way more characters I didn’t like than ones I did.
The Down & Dirty:
Though I enjoyed the romance, Too Good To Be True by Kristen Ashley wasn’t really for me. I kind of knew that going in but I thought that about The Fantasyland Series and it turned out to be my favorite. No matter what I will read any book Kristen writes because I love her romances, but Too Good To Be True won’t be on my favorites list.
Rating: 3.5 Stars, 3 flames
Purchase Too Good To Be True by Kristen Ashley
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October 31, 2023
Too Good to Be True was an exceptional story that had me intrigued and pulled in right from the start. I loved the characters, the mystery, and the incredible build. The development was spot on and I was caught up in all the details. It was exciting to read and I was filled with anticipation, I felt consumed the entire time.
Daphne was fantastic. I liked her strength and curiosity and I felt for her and the position she was in with her family. Ian was charismatic and protective and had a powerful yet calming presence. I loved Daphne and Ian’s interactions and the chemistry between them. They had the best back-and-forth dialogue and wit. I loved the build to their relationship, it was sweet and honest. I could feel the emotion between them in the middle of this intense situation as they started to open up and become vulnerable. When they finally got to that moment when they truly connected, it was explosive perfection.
There is a mystery afoot at Duncroft House and it completely captivated me. My eyes flew across the page as details were revealed, things were pieced together, and questions arose. Duncroft House has a rich and complicated history and I loved the drama of it all. I loved learning about past family members, the hardships, and the trysts and twists. I loved learning about the current family in residence and the different dynamics between the siblings and Ian’s parents. I enjoyed watching different relationships grow and bonds form. There were so many things that transpired, hints along the way, and so many great scenes and it was thrilling as everything came to its conclusion and all the questions were answered. In true KA style, there was an amazing epilogue where more goodness is shared with happily ever after’s, and loose ends are tied up. It was like icing on the cake!
I loved the drama in the family, the drama of the past, the mystery, the entertaining moments, the beautiful romance, and the love stories. This was a truly stellar story that had me on the edge of my seat and falling in love with Ian and Daphne, and Duncroft. I loved it all!
Complimentary copy received from Rock Chick Press.
Daphne was fantastic. I liked her strength and curiosity and I felt for her and the position she was in with her family. Ian was charismatic and protective and had a powerful yet calming presence. I loved Daphne and Ian’s interactions and the chemistry between them. They had the best back-and-forth dialogue and wit. I loved the build to their relationship, it was sweet and honest. I could feel the emotion between them in the middle of this intense situation as they started to open up and become vulnerable. When they finally got to that moment when they truly connected, it was explosive perfection.
There is a mystery afoot at Duncroft House and it completely captivated me. My eyes flew across the page as details were revealed, things were pieced together, and questions arose. Duncroft House has a rich and complicated history and I loved the drama of it all. I loved learning about past family members, the hardships, and the trysts and twists. I loved learning about the current family in residence and the different dynamics between the siblings and Ian’s parents. I enjoyed watching different relationships grow and bonds form. There were so many things that transpired, hints along the way, and so many great scenes and it was thrilling as everything came to its conclusion and all the questions were answered. In true KA style, there was an amazing epilogue where more goodness is shared with happily ever after’s, and loose ends are tied up. It was like icing on the cake!
I loved the drama in the family, the drama of the past, the mystery, the entertaining moments, the beautiful romance, and the love stories. This was a truly stellar story that had me on the edge of my seat and falling in love with Ian and Daphne, and Duncroft. I loved it all!
Complimentary copy received from Rock Chick Press.
November 3, 2023
DNA , just couldn’t get into it , bored me , I’m usually big fan of KA too
March 21, 2024
3.5 stars.
I spent the first 70% of this book wondering if KA had hired a ghostwriter. It didn't quite read like her early series set in the UK, but it definitely did not read like anything I've read by her since. I wasn't going to pick it up, but then I read that it took place in England, and since Sommersgate House remains one of my go-to reads, I decided to give it a shot.
Guys. This actually reads a bit like a slow burn. The characters don't even hook up until about 70% in. I don't even think they kissed until over halfway through the book. Plus, we didn't have any caricatures of overenthusiastic insta-friends there to shout everyone into loving Daphne, the main character. There was a bit of a cozy mystery with several layers that she clearly spent some time on. No cars, homes, or other property blew up. There weren't even any plot moppets! I kept thinking, Who wrote this?! In fact, if it hadn't been for what felt like a bit of a slog through the last 30% of the book, this would have been 4 stars, easily.
Daphne admittedly reads like most of the KA heroines, where she is just too fabulous to be believed, but sometimes that's fun. She was self-assured, wealthy, successful, and I'm assuming, beautiful, but it wasn't harped on every five pages. And one of my biggest pet peeves about KA's heroes didn't really happen here -- Ian felt like he was meant for more than simply work and worshiping/rescuing the heroine. Even though it was clear they were both interested in each other from the start of the book, it didn't feel like he was instantly steamrolling her into relationship (of course, she was staying in his house so it might not have been necessary). The two spoke and got to know each other for a while before proceeding with a relationship. He didn't even declare it was a relationship before Daphne realized it was.
Again I ask, who wrote this?
It wasn't a perfect book and over the last 70% when it was like KA suddenly realized she was going to have to wrap up the mystery at some point, the book dragged a bit, but it didn't batter me with the same characters and plot lines I've read in every other KA book. There were certainly similarities, but I didn't feel like I did when reading the "Rock Chick" series (and really just about every book she's written since), like I was getting the exact same characters and plots recycled six or seven times. It was a refreshing change. I will definitely buy it at some point. She didn't win me back into her fold (I'm not sure that will ever happen after that last time I read Rock Chick Regret -- I still get ragey when I think about the implications there), but it was nice to see for the first time since The Promise ripped off my blinders, that KA can do more than write the same stories in different packaging. Will she? Not sure. But at least she can.
I spent the first 70% of this book wondering if KA had hired a ghostwriter. It didn't quite read like her early series set in the UK, but it definitely did not read like anything I've read by her since. I wasn't going to pick it up, but then I read that it took place in England, and since Sommersgate House remains one of my go-to reads, I decided to give it a shot.
Guys. This actually reads a bit like a slow burn. The characters don't even hook up until about 70% in. I don't even think they kissed until over halfway through the book. Plus, we didn't have any caricatures of overenthusiastic insta-friends there to shout everyone into loving Daphne, the main character. There was a bit of a cozy mystery with several layers that she clearly spent some time on. No cars, homes, or other property blew up. There weren't even any plot moppets! I kept thinking, Who wrote this?! In fact, if it hadn't been for what felt like a bit of a slog through the last 30% of the book, this would have been 4 stars, easily.
Daphne admittedly reads like most of the KA heroines, where she is just too fabulous to be believed, but sometimes that's fun. She was self-assured, wealthy, successful, and I'm assuming, beautiful, but it wasn't harped on every five pages. And one of my biggest pet peeves about KA's heroes didn't really happen here -- Ian felt like he was meant for more than simply work and worshiping/rescuing the heroine. Even though it was clear they were both interested in each other from the start of the book, it didn't feel like he was instantly steamrolling her into relationship (of course, she was staying in his house so it might not have been necessary). The two spoke and got to know each other for a while before proceeding with a relationship. He didn't even declare it was a relationship before Daphne realized it was.
Again I ask, who wrote this?
It wasn't a perfect book and over the last 70% when it was like KA suddenly realized she was going to have to wrap up the mystery at some point, the book dragged a bit, but it didn't batter me with the same characters and plot lines I've read in every other KA book. There were certainly similarities, but I didn't feel like I did when reading the "Rock Chick" series (and really just about every book she's written since), like I was getting the exact same characters and plots recycled six or seven times. It was a refreshing change. I will definitely buy it at some point. She didn't win me back into her fold (I'm not sure that will ever happen after that last time I read Rock Chick Regret -- I still get ragey when I think about the implications there), but it was nice to see for the first time since The Promise ripped off my blinders, that KA can do more than write the same stories in different packaging. Will she? Not sure. But at least she can.
October 19, 2023
"Dearie me, Lord Alcott,"-I fluttered my eyes-"are you suggesting something untoward?"
"By untoward, if you mean fucking you until you're exhausted, yes. That's what I'm suggesting."
Daphne is uncertain about spending a week at a historic country estate that's said to be haunted. Especially since not long after she arrives, things begin to happen to her. Being that it is Ian's ancestral family home, he is equally as concerned and determined to get to the bottom of it. Forcing them into some even closer proximity.
I enjoyed this one. The setting alone was such a great vibe. A little gothic. Historic. Adding in a murder mystery element from the past... made it so we got more than one love story. I will admit, I found it hard to keep up with all the names-the who's who from the past. But it was an interesting element nonetheless!
Daphne was such a strong heroine. She knows who she is and is confident in that. But she shows a more vulnerable side when things start to go awry at the mansion. But Ian is there to see her through. And gosh, Ian was what I loved most of this story. Very KA alpha hero. Complete with swoon, sex appeal and chin lifts. I was here for him and the splashes of dirty talk. Their connection is pretty insta, after a short stent of enemies banter. But the build up of chemistry is perfect. The way they communicated. And the way he is so protective of her... swoon. I loved him. They were really just a perfect fit for one another.
This story is a little slow to start for me. But once we meet Ian and things develop from there, I was captivated and turning the pages. There's an element of suspense that kept me guessing-and that I think works well for this time of year/season. Overall I enjoyed it and would recommend!
What You'll Find:
💕Contemporary Romance
💕Billionaire MC's
💕Murder Mystery Element
💕Forced Proximity
💕Suspense
💕Open Door Steam
💕Single POV
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and given freely.
"By untoward, if you mean fucking you until you're exhausted, yes. That's what I'm suggesting."
Daphne is uncertain about spending a week at a historic country estate that's said to be haunted. Especially since not long after she arrives, things begin to happen to her. Being that it is Ian's ancestral family home, he is equally as concerned and determined to get to the bottom of it. Forcing them into some even closer proximity.
I enjoyed this one. The setting alone was such a great vibe. A little gothic. Historic. Adding in a murder mystery element from the past... made it so we got more than one love story. I will admit, I found it hard to keep up with all the names-the who's who from the past. But it was an interesting element nonetheless!
Daphne was such a strong heroine. She knows who she is and is confident in that. But she shows a more vulnerable side when things start to go awry at the mansion. But Ian is there to see her through. And gosh, Ian was what I loved most of this story. Very KA alpha hero. Complete with swoon, sex appeal and chin lifts. I was here for him and the splashes of dirty talk. Their connection is pretty insta, after a short stent of enemies banter. But the build up of chemistry is perfect. The way they communicated. And the way he is so protective of her... swoon. I loved him. They were really just a perfect fit for one another.
This story is a little slow to start for me. But once we meet Ian and things develop from there, I was captivated and turning the pages. There's an element of suspense that kept me guessing-and that I think works well for this time of year/season. Overall I enjoyed it and would recommend!
What You'll Find:
💕Contemporary Romance
💕Billionaire MC's
💕Murder Mystery Element
💕Forced Proximity
💕Suspense
💕Open Door Steam
💕Single POV
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and given freely.
November 4, 2023
Once started, I couldn't put the book down and dreaded that I had to go to work in between. I'm a huge Kristen Ashley fan and have read a lot of her books. So far, Complicated was my favorite but I think this one is my new favorite. I loved the story and the little stories behind the story. I had tears in my eyes when Daphne read the last letter from Augustus to his late wife. Whenever I think Kristen cannot do anything better, she goes and proves me wrong. I will never tire of her books and hope that there are many more to come.
November 4, 2023
An English manor, an old murder mystery, and an Earl who fell in love with an American at a house party. This is a contemporary romance. I enjoyed the romance, the mystery, the messy plot, and the setting. I love the dynamic between the main characters and the side characters, specifically between Daphne (the heroine) and her stepmother who is her age. Ian really did grow to desire her, but once he committed, he was all in. It was a really good read.
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