What do you think?
Rate this book
Georgian Gentlemen #6
A Provincial Peer
Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. The heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. So when a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is intrigued.
Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, Caroline Granger and her young daughter, Meg, retreat to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.
Caroline is mortified when she learns of her error in addressing Lord Benning—or Benedict, as she called him during their growing-up years—as a farmhand. But shared childhood memories and a precocious four-year-old inevitably draw Benedict and Caroline together, and it’s not long before Caroline realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her—including her scars. With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for a chance at love.
Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, Caroline Granger and her young daughter, Meg, retreat to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.
Caroline is mortified when she learns of her error in addressing Lord Benning—or Benedict, as she called him during their growing-up years—as a farmhand. But shared childhood memories and a precocious four-year-old inevitably draw Benedict and Caroline together, and it’s not long before Caroline realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her—including her scars. With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for a chance at love.
248 pages, Paperback
First published May 7, 2024
30 people are currently reading
1761 people want to read
About the author
Sian Ann Bessey
39 books1,093 followersSian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, but grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the U.S., where she earned a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in English.
She began her writing career as a student, publishing several magazine articles while still in college. Since then she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children's books. She is a USA Today best selling author and a Whitney Award finalist.
Although Sian doesn't have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, she can still wrap her tongue around, "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch." She loves to travel and experience other cultures, but when she's home, her favorite activities are spending time with her family, cooking, and reading.
She began her writing career as a student, publishing several magazine articles while still in college. Since then she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children's books. She is a USA Today best selling author and a Whitney Award finalist.
Although Sian doesn't have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, she can still wrap her tongue around, "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch." She loves to travel and experience other cultures, but when she's home, her favorite activities are spending time with her family, cooking, and reading.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
April 24, 2024
A Provincial Peer is the sweetest way to end the Georgian Gentleman series.
Caroline returns home widowed and scarred with a young, precocious daughter and rekindles a childhood friendship with Benedict. This slow-burn, tender tale not only captures snippets of real life in rural 1790s England, but also delivers stunning character transformations.
The history is rich, the lessons are powerful, the terrors of disease are vivid, but it’s the joy, hope, love, and peace that all types of love reveal that fully planted this lovely story into my heart. From the cows to that beautiful first kiss, and everything in between, this is a story worth devouring.
Content: mild romance; mild effects of disease
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given*
Caroline returns home widowed and scarred with a young, precocious daughter and rekindles a childhood friendship with Benedict. This slow-burn, tender tale not only captures snippets of real life in rural 1790s England, but also delivers stunning character transformations.
The history is rich, the lessons are powerful, the terrors of disease are vivid, but it’s the joy, hope, love, and peace that all types of love reveal that fully planted this lovely story into my heart. From the cows to that beautiful first kiss, and everything in between, this is a story worth devouring.
Content: mild romance; mild effects of disease
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given*
April 21, 2024
Such a lovely, tender story! I've read the whole series and this is a great addition.
Caroline and Benedict are wonderful characters who grow from a rekindled childhood friendship into a slow-burn romance that's worth the wait. They have their own problems and shortcomings and they step up for each other.
I liked the gentle rural setting and little Meg stole the show numerous times.
I highly recommend this series!
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Caroline and Benedict are wonderful characters who grow from a rekindled childhood friendship into a slow-burn romance that's worth the wait. They have their own problems and shortcomings and they step up for each other.
I liked the gentle rural setting and little Meg stole the show numerous times.
I highly recommend this series!
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
July 5, 2024
"It is remarkable how God works within the confines of the most trying circumstances to help us improve ourselves."
This entire series has been filled with the most wholesome characters that make you want to be better and look out for those around you. Every book and every characters has been inspiring and left me feeling so much hope and goodness.
This is a single parent and friends to more mash-up that is done wonderfully by the author. I immediately fell in love with these characters! The writing is smooth, beautiful and flows so well. I had a hard time putting this book down. The characters were engaging, the plot was interesting and I felt completely transported throughout.
I have read and studied about Smallpox, but still managed to learn new things and was able to feel even more connected to these characters through the situations they went through.
The romance in this one is incredibly sweet. I loved that our main characters saw each others souls. It was beautiful to experience and I can't wait for more books from this author!!! I'll read anything she writes!
I have enjoyed this series thoroughly and think it's a wonderful book (and series) for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a Christian thread.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: Smallpox (illness, death, mild descriptions), friends to more, light Christian threads, single parent trope, romance-kisses only.
This entire series has been filled with the most wholesome characters that make you want to be better and look out for those around you. Every book and every characters has been inspiring and left me feeling so much hope and goodness.
This is a single parent and friends to more mash-up that is done wonderfully by the author. I immediately fell in love with these characters! The writing is smooth, beautiful and flows so well. I had a hard time putting this book down. The characters were engaging, the plot was interesting and I felt completely transported throughout.
I have read and studied about Smallpox, but still managed to learn new things and was able to feel even more connected to these characters through the situations they went through.
The romance in this one is incredibly sweet. I loved that our main characters saw each others souls. It was beautiful to experience and I can't wait for more books from this author!!! I'll read anything she writes!
I have enjoyed this series thoroughly and think it's a wonderful book (and series) for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a Christian thread.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: Smallpox (illness, death, mild descriptions), friends to more, light Christian threads, single parent trope, romance-kisses only.
April 25, 2024
I just adored this story! Lord Benning, Benedict, loves being part of the work on his farm including helping with the birth of calves. Caroline, is widowed after a smallpox outbreak that killed her husband and left her face scarred. She also is a mother to little Meg. She returns to her father’s home and reunites with her childhood friend, Benedict. She keeps her face covered to hide her scars. As Caroline and Meg spend time with Benedict, Caroline decides to take a risk and start showing her scars.
I really loved this story! I loved how caring and kind Benedict is, not only towards Caroline and Meg but with everyone in his care. He cares for the servants and the people in his village. He makes sure they get what they need. I loved his adorable Fatherly interactions with Meg. I loved watching Caroline learn to be brave and let people see her how she really is. And of course I loved the romantic relationship between Caroline and Benedict, so good! Overall, this was a wonderful historical romance and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I really loved this story! I loved how caring and kind Benedict is, not only towards Caroline and Meg but with everyone in his care. He cares for the servants and the people in his village. He makes sure they get what they need. I loved his adorable Fatherly interactions with Meg. I loved watching Caroline learn to be brave and let people see her how she really is. And of course I loved the romantic relationship between Caroline and Benedict, so good! Overall, this was a wonderful historical romance and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 27, 2024
What a way to end a wonderful series. I've loved all the books in the Georgian Gentlemen series and don't think I could pick a favorite, but I loved this gentle love story so much. Caroline's backstory will touch your heart and her precocious, 4 year old daughter Meg will bring a smile to your face. I loved how Caroline and Benedict reconnected because of little Meg and that she couldn't say Lord Benning's name correctly which led to various nicknames.
Caroline and Benedict are such likeable characters. I enjoyed watching them get reacquainted and appreciated how Benedict didn't push Caroline to remove her veil or gloves, which she used to hide her smallpox scars. I loved all his interactions with little Meg; they were so sweet. Benedict truly is the best of the best! We can see that he truly cared about his tenants and his animals.
This slow-burn romance was just the right pace for me and I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of angst. Dual POV is my favorite because I love knowing the male character's thoughts. I love how the author is able to put bits of history into her stories so I'm learning while being entertained with a lovely story. There's an author's note at the end regarding smallpox in the Georgian period I found very interesting.
Each of the Georgian Gentlemen books can be read as standalones and I highly recommend them all. I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Caroline and Benedict are such likeable characters. I enjoyed watching them get reacquainted and appreciated how Benedict didn't push Caroline to remove her veil or gloves, which she used to hide her smallpox scars. I loved all his interactions with little Meg; they were so sweet. Benedict truly is the best of the best! We can see that he truly cared about his tenants and his animals.
This slow-burn romance was just the right pace for me and I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of angst. Dual POV is my favorite because I love knowing the male character's thoughts. I love how the author is able to put bits of history into her stories so I'm learning while being entertained with a lovely story. There's an author's note at the end regarding smallpox in the Georgian period I found very interesting.
Each of the Georgian Gentlemen books can be read as standalones and I highly recommend them all. I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
May 15, 2024
This is the last of the series and my favorite. Each book deals with a topic important to the end of the 18th century and this one was the deadly smallpox infection. The characters were kind and enjoyable. The daughter of the heroine was especially endearing. The conflict resolution was a bit farfetched but I was glad for a happy ending. 😊
May 2, 2024
Beautiful story and fantastic writing! I was hooked just from reading the synopsis! And Sian Ann Bessey is a must read everything she writes author for me! I love her books. I am always pulled in right away and don't want them to end. And that's how I feel about this Georgian Gentleman series. This is the last book and I can't tell you how much I have adored this series. They are all beautiful, tender, sweet stories with some mystery and light suspense!
Caroline and Benedict melted my heart! And that first kiss...be still my heart and all the happy sighs! Clean and sweet romance lovers will be very happy with their whole love story. Add in Caroline's adorable 4 year old daughter Meg, and the cuteness factor is perfect! I love when I read this author's books, especially this series, there's no unnecessary drama between the main characters. They feel so real and are easily relatable to.
I loved the author's note at the end of the book in regards to smallpox. Wow! So interesting and I love how she wove it throughout the story. I highly recommend you pick this one up. It can be read as a standalone if you haven't read the previous books in this series. But I do recommend those books as well if you're looking for some fabulous reads!
Content: Clean. Some talk of smallpox and death and the feelings of loss. A couple of sweet kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Caroline and Benedict melted my heart! And that first kiss...be still my heart and all the happy sighs! Clean and sweet romance lovers will be very happy with their whole love story. Add in Caroline's adorable 4 year old daughter Meg, and the cuteness factor is perfect! I love when I read this author's books, especially this series, there's no unnecessary drama between the main characters. They feel so real and are easily relatable to.
I loved the author's note at the end of the book in regards to smallpox. Wow! So interesting and I love how she wove it throughout the story. I highly recommend you pick this one up. It can be read as a standalone if you haven't read the previous books in this series. But I do recommend those books as well if you're looking for some fabulous reads!
Content: Clean. Some talk of smallpox and death and the feelings of loss. A couple of sweet kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
June 6, 2024
The books in this series are so different than the usual storylines. I loved the characters, especially little Meg. I found the historical part of smallpox and cowpox interesting but the way is was woven in the story caused a little drag in the middle which kept me from giving the full five stars. Definitely a good book and well worth reading.
Read
April 5, 2025Boring and that kid was really anonying and it's voice so i decided to drop it.
June 4, 2024
I absolutely love this series by Sian! I love the balance between facts of the time and the romance of the story! I couldn't put it down!
May 28, 2024
Dearest Lady Bessey,
You have done it. This series is the only series in my memory for which I have written a letter review for every book. If I had a fancy engraved crystal award, I would send it to you (though I am fully aware it would mean little). But these books mean a great deal to me! Every one has touched my heart and filled me up with joy and happiness. I have found contentment and tranquility within their pages, my soul is at rest under the balm of your words. They are beautiful, and I am grateful to be able to read them.
As with the others in this series, I loved the historical tidbits and information in this book, balanced with the story. All the info about smallpox just made me so sad, and I loved that you were able to include the first vaccinations. It’s always fascinating to see strides in medical knowledge.
Also, the romance in this one was so good! Absolutely wonderful! Caroline and Benedict were fantastic. I loved Benedict’s care for people in his life, and how much he took to Meg, and subsequently Caroline. My heart just went out to Caroline so many times—I was near to tears at one point, learning her backstory! But her resilience and kind heart made her so wonderful, and I loved her. Meg was a delight! Her affinity for dandelions and mispronunciation of Lord Benning’s name was so sweet. You perfectly captured a young girl’s charm.
I just adore this series and this book. With my whole heart, I’m so glad I got to read all of these and especially glad that you wrote them! They are reread worthy books that I am thrilled to have in my library.
Your friend,
Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for the e-copy. My love for this book is genuine and from my heart.**
You have done it. This series is the only series in my memory for which I have written a letter review for every book. If I had a fancy engraved crystal award, I would send it to you (though I am fully aware it would mean little). But these books mean a great deal to me! Every one has touched my heart and filled me up with joy and happiness. I have found contentment and tranquility within their pages, my soul is at rest under the balm of your words. They are beautiful, and I am grateful to be able to read them.
As with the others in this series, I loved the historical tidbits and information in this book, balanced with the story. All the info about smallpox just made me so sad, and I loved that you were able to include the first vaccinations. It’s always fascinating to see strides in medical knowledge.
Also, the romance in this one was so good! Absolutely wonderful! Caroline and Benedict were fantastic. I loved Benedict’s care for people in his life, and how much he took to Meg, and subsequently Caroline. My heart just went out to Caroline so many times—I was near to tears at one point, learning her backstory! But her resilience and kind heart made her so wonderful, and I loved her. Meg was a delight! Her affinity for dandelions and mispronunciation of Lord Benning’s name was so sweet. You perfectly captured a young girl’s charm.
I just adore this series and this book. With my whole heart, I’m so glad I got to read all of these and especially glad that you wrote them! They are reread worthy books that I am thrilled to have in my library.
Your friend,
Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for the e-copy. My love for this book is genuine and from my heart.**
May 5, 2024
What a book, y'all.
I have loved every single one of the books in Sian Bessey's Georgian Gentleman series, and this was no exception. I'm fairly certain it has everything you could ever want in a story - a courageous heroine, a thoughtful, hard-working hero, an adorable four year old, boat races, the cleaning closet, mystery, plot twists, and the sweetest romance....seriously, what more could you want here?
Benedict and Caroline were the cutest couple. They were both such lovable characters, the kind you can't help but cheer for from the start. The two of them deserved all the happiness in the world and I loved watching their relationship grow as they went from friends to lovers.
Moral of the story here, friends, is that y'all need this book in your lives. And lucky for y'all, this book releases on Tuesday, so you don't even have to wait that long to get yourself a copy! 😉
Many thanks to the author and the publisher for the early copy; all thoughts are my own.
I have loved every single one of the books in Sian Bessey's Georgian Gentleman series, and this was no exception. I'm fairly certain it has everything you could ever want in a story - a courageous heroine, a thoughtful, hard-working hero, an adorable four year old, boat races, the cleaning closet, mystery, plot twists, and the sweetest romance....seriously, what more could you want here?
Benedict and Caroline were the cutest couple. They were both such lovable characters, the kind you can't help but cheer for from the start. The two of them deserved all the happiness in the world and I loved watching their relationship grow as they went from friends to lovers.
Moral of the story here, friends, is that y'all need this book in your lives. And lucky for y'all, this book releases on Tuesday, so you don't even have to wait that long to get yourself a copy! 😉
Many thanks to the author and the publisher for the early copy; all thoughts are my own.
January 6, 2025
I love a great historical book and the fact that I finished this in 4 hours into the small hours of the night can attest to that! And throw in the fact that it’s a Romance then I can tell you that this a great story. It is set during a time of history when many suffered from the effects of a horrible drought worsened by the arrival of the dreaded smallpox outbreak in England. The characters were wonderful and real, their interactions were amazing. The addition of a darling little girl didn’t hurt. This is a great historical romance.
December 26, 2024
The thing I really appreciate about Sian's books is that the characters feel real. I enjoyed learning about small pox and cow pox, including the start to vaccinations. Very interesting history to add to the story.
January 2, 2025
I enjoyed this conclusion to the series. I found the information about smallpox to be very intriguing and loved the historical context to the story. Meg was the sweetest little girl and I liked watching Caroline and Benedict’s romance grow.
May 18, 2024
Very cute healing wonderful book to an absolutely wonderful series
July 7, 2024
Loved it! Gripping! Unique!
May 26, 2024
Shep was circling something. Benedict stepped closer. There was an unfamiliar small child standing in his yard. "Is that your doggie?" She pointed at shep. "He likes to run around me." Meg will steal your heart! She's captured the heart of Benedict! Who she calls Mr. Bent Nicked!
Meg is the daughter of Caroline Granger. Lord Benning and Caroline grew up together. At their first meeting Caroline had her face covered with a veil to hide the scars left beind by smallpox. Benedict didn't recognize her. Caroline kept her eyes down and didn't recognize him. Eventually Benedict sees Caroline without her vail and is determined to get to know her better!
Sian Ann Bessey has created another wonderful story in the Georgian Gentleman Series! A touching story of a community coming together during the smallpox outbreak, and the Doctor who came up with the vaccine. How they all worked together to make sure everyone was fed and had the resources to make it through such a dier time.
Thank you Sian Ann Bessey for including Dr. Edward Jenner and his research for the vaccine against Smallpox. Very interesting!
I received a copy of this story from the publisher, the opinions in this review are my own!
Meg is the daughter of Caroline Granger. Lord Benning and Caroline grew up together. At their first meeting Caroline had her face covered with a veil to hide the scars left beind by smallpox. Benedict didn't recognize her. Caroline kept her eyes down and didn't recognize him. Eventually Benedict sees Caroline without her vail and is determined to get to know her better!
Sian Ann Bessey has created another wonderful story in the Georgian Gentleman Series! A touching story of a community coming together during the smallpox outbreak, and the Doctor who came up with the vaccine. How they all worked together to make sure everyone was fed and had the resources to make it through such a dier time.
Thank you Sian Ann Bessey for including Dr. Edward Jenner and his research for the vaccine against Smallpox. Very interesting!
I received a copy of this story from the publisher, the opinions in this review are my own!
June 8, 2024
“Everyone deserves kindness. It should be at the foundation of every act and every conversation.”
Oh my word. I don’t know whether to jump joyfully because this was one of the best books ever, or sob uncontrollably that this is the last book in Sian’s Greorgian Gentlemen series. My heart is both full and breaking, this book is simply incredible. Sian Ann Bessey is one of the absolute best historical romance authors you will ever come across. She brings history alive, sheds light on prevalent and significant issues of the time, and creates some of the most lovable, charming, and swoony characters.
Some of my favorite parts or elements of this story are:
• True acceptance
• Toy boat racing
• Cleaning closets
• Caring for and serving others
• Optimism in the face of hardship
• The love and support of friends
• Brilliant “medical quackery”
• Exceeding one’s meddling allotment
• Some of the sweetest and swooniest kisses
I just know I’m going to have the worst book hangover after this because this story was SO good! Benedict and Caroline were gems and I adored everything about their relationship. Their pasts have shaped them, their current circumstances govern their choices, and their potential futures give them hope. They are absolutely perfect for each other and truly help each other become stronger in every sense of the word. And of course, who could forget Meg? She’s absolutely adorable and provides both innocent anecdotes and comic relief.
Pretty much you do NOT want to miss this book if you’re a lover of historical fiction with the best kind of romance. While it can be read on its own, I highly recommend reading the series.
Oh my word. I don’t know whether to jump joyfully because this was one of the best books ever, or sob uncontrollably that this is the last book in Sian’s Greorgian Gentlemen series. My heart is both full and breaking, this book is simply incredible. Sian Ann Bessey is one of the absolute best historical romance authors you will ever come across. She brings history alive, sheds light on prevalent and significant issues of the time, and creates some of the most lovable, charming, and swoony characters.
Some of my favorite parts or elements of this story are:
• True acceptance
• Toy boat racing
• Cleaning closets
• Caring for and serving others
• Optimism in the face of hardship
• The love and support of friends
• Brilliant “medical quackery”
• Exceeding one’s meddling allotment
• Some of the sweetest and swooniest kisses
I just know I’m going to have the worst book hangover after this because this story was SO good! Benedict and Caroline were gems and I adored everything about their relationship. Their pasts have shaped them, their current circumstances govern their choices, and their potential futures give them hope. They are absolutely perfect for each other and truly help each other become stronger in every sense of the word. And of course, who could forget Meg? She’s absolutely adorable and provides both innocent anecdotes and comic relief.
Pretty much you do NOT want to miss this book if you’re a lover of historical fiction with the best kind of romance. While it can be read on its own, I highly recommend reading the series.
September 6, 2025
Loved it and the narration was great!
October 9, 2025
Audiobook
Noah Wall
Glaucoshire England 1796
Noah Wall
Glaucoshire England 1796
April 16, 2024
These Georgian Gentlemen are just the sweetest! Benedict is heir to an earldom but you can usually find him out helping the farmhands and his tenants. Caroline is a childhood friend who has come home to the vicarage with her young daughter after smallpox takes her husband and leaves her scarred. Benedict takes to young Meg right away and their relationship is precious while Benedict and Caroline have a sweet slow burn romance. I also really loved the relationship of the parents. Once again we learn more about something in history and also have a light mystery as conflict.
CW: kissing only, death by smallpox, emotional and physical scars, development of a vaccine
CW: kissing only, death by smallpox, emotional and physical scars, development of a vaccine
May 12, 2024
I have loved this series and this book is just as good as the others. The romance is super sweet and the characters lovable. I learned so much about smallpox and the effects of a wheat shortage. I liked reading Caroline’s journey of accepting and loving herself. Meg (a little four yo) definitely stole the show. I loved her and her personality.
SPOILERS and book notes:
May 1796
Benedict is a gentleman farmer. Milk Cow farmer. And orchard and wheat. And Caroline is a widow with an adorable 4yo daughter named Meg. Caroline is recovering from small pox. It leaves scars on her face. But she feels blessed bc many who had the plague lost their eyesight but she did not. They knew each other in childhood. I love that Benedict has a loud and beautiful singing voice in church. I love this: ““It has been my observation that those who find beauty and joy in their current circumstances will find it anywhere they may go; whereas those who always yen to be somewhere else will find those same feelings resurfacing no matter where they find themselves.” Oh my heck I love that she trusted him with her appearance. And that she told him all her troubles and didn’t hide anything! “Up until now, the circle of people I have trusted with my appearance has been limited to my father and Nora.” “I am honored to be included amongst them. And I would have you know that when you are with me, you may wear whatever brings you the most peace of mind, but as far as I am concerned, no matter how fine the hat, a wilted daisy chain will always be more elegant.”” I love the red and blue boat races in the river. The most adorable scene ever! I love how comfortable she is around Benedict. She feels emotionally and physically safe with him. Also he saved her daughter from drowning. So yeah. Oh Hector and hard working farmer Jim are simply adorable! They just had a baby! But then Jim got hurt in the fields! But even in his super injured state he was still worried if his wife had enough food and was recovering from her giving birth. AW I love them!!! It’s so sad to see a very hungry mom not be able to produce milk for her very hung try baby. And Benedict and Caroline will help them! Clean and wash dishes and get them food!! I think that cowpox (a sickness you get from cows so the milkmaids get it) is a far less severe form of small pox. And so it could be a cure for smallpox? If you are just exposed to cowpox then you won’t get smallpox? Hmmm I will be interested to see. I love this about outward appearance!: “But I recently met some rather wonderful people who have taught me that whether my skin is smooth or scarred is not truly important. After all, few of us have the luxury of choosing our outward appearance.” ““I daresay you were not born with gray hair, Mrs. Flockton. A friend who has not seen you since your youth, however, may be shocked at the change in you. “If she is wise enough to realize that the color of your hair does not define the person you are within, she will likely say nothing about it. If she takes the time to recognize that your gray hair signifies years of experiences, she will perhaps ask what you have learned since the change occurred. If, however, she is small-minded enough see your gray hair as something lesser than brown or blonde, she may choose to draw attention to it as a way of elevating herself or simply because she has nothing of more value to say.”” And then Benedict stood up for her too! ““Might I suggest that before you point out another’s flaws in so public and unkind a manner again, you take a moment to consider your own. They may not be so visible as a scarred face, but I assure you they are there.” Caroline’s former husband always put career and the sea before her and Meg. Benedict put Caroline above his own mother even!! And his earldom!! And this is THE best declaration of love freaking EVER: “You are Lord Benning. One day, you shall be an earl. I am the daughter of a country vicar—a scarred, virtually penniless widow with a child.” “How could I possibly dwell on the fading scars on your skin when your blue eyes and smile are so captivating?” His thumb had moved from her lips to wipe the moisture off her cheeks. “If you were anyone but the daughter of our local vicar, who enjoys being on the farm and racing boats on the river as much now as she did as a child, I would not have spent the most enjoyable days I’ve had in years these past weeks. If you were not recently widowed and the caring mother of one of the dearest children I know, you may never have developed the strength and selflessness you can now claim. Indeed, without those very aspects of your life, I likely would not have fallen so fully in love with you.” Caroline’s heart stuttered. “You . . . you have fallen in love with me?” “Irretrievably.”” And then OH MY HECK HE CLOSED THE CLEANING CLOSET DOOR AND KISSED HER. Sweetest sweetest kiss. I love this thought on kindness: ““Everyone deserves kindness. It should be at the foundation of every act and every conversation. I only wish that those who refuse to accept so simple a truth would understand that when all is said and done, thoughtless or cruel behavior ultimately causes more damage to the giver than the receiver.” Benedict showed his love to Caroline by getting the small pox vaccine. putting cowpox puss in a sore. Meg and Benedict relationship is so adorable I am dying. ““Thank you, Meg,” he said, sincerely touched. “I am honored that you believe me worthy of a kiss.” She nodded solemnly. “Mama told me a kiss is what you do when you love someone.” ““Lord Benting.” Meg’s voice was filled with wonder. “I think you must love my mama an awful lot. That was the biggest kiss of all.” So many interesting facts about small pox and the creation of the vaccine from cowpox: “It was not until Dr. Edward Jenner developed the first vaccination using cowpox material that eradication of the disease became a real possibility. Edward Jenner was born on May 17, 1749, in Berkeley, Gloucestershire. His experience in the medical field was extensive, and having grown up in the country, he was aware of the commonly held belief that dairymaids were somehow protected from smallpox.” “Interestingly, the word vaccination—which is still in use today—comes from the Latin word vaccinus, meaning “from cows,” and was coined by Dr. Jenner.” Now the world is declared free of smallpox.
SPOILERS and book notes:
May 1796
Benedict is a gentleman farmer. Milk Cow farmer. And orchard and wheat. And Caroline is a widow with an adorable 4yo daughter named Meg. Caroline is recovering from small pox. It leaves scars on her face. But she feels blessed bc many who had the plague lost their eyesight but she did not. They knew each other in childhood. I love that Benedict has a loud and beautiful singing voice in church. I love this: ““It has been my observation that those who find beauty and joy in their current circumstances will find it anywhere they may go; whereas those who always yen to be somewhere else will find those same feelings resurfacing no matter where they find themselves.” Oh my heck I love that she trusted him with her appearance. And that she told him all her troubles and didn’t hide anything! “Up until now, the circle of people I have trusted with my appearance has been limited to my father and Nora.” “I am honored to be included amongst them. And I would have you know that when you are with me, you may wear whatever brings you the most peace of mind, but as far as I am concerned, no matter how fine the hat, a wilted daisy chain will always be more elegant.”” I love the red and blue boat races in the river. The most adorable scene ever! I love how comfortable she is around Benedict. She feels emotionally and physically safe with him. Also he saved her daughter from drowning. So yeah. Oh Hector and hard working farmer Jim are simply adorable! They just had a baby! But then Jim got hurt in the fields! But even in his super injured state he was still worried if his wife had enough food and was recovering from her giving birth. AW I love them!!! It’s so sad to see a very hungry mom not be able to produce milk for her very hung try baby. And Benedict and Caroline will help them! Clean and wash dishes and get them food!! I think that cowpox (a sickness you get from cows so the milkmaids get it) is a far less severe form of small pox. And so it could be a cure for smallpox? If you are just exposed to cowpox then you won’t get smallpox? Hmmm I will be interested to see. I love this about outward appearance!: “But I recently met some rather wonderful people who have taught me that whether my skin is smooth or scarred is not truly important. After all, few of us have the luxury of choosing our outward appearance.” ““I daresay you were not born with gray hair, Mrs. Flockton. A friend who has not seen you since your youth, however, may be shocked at the change in you. “If she is wise enough to realize that the color of your hair does not define the person you are within, she will likely say nothing about it. If she takes the time to recognize that your gray hair signifies years of experiences, she will perhaps ask what you have learned since the change occurred. If, however, she is small-minded enough see your gray hair as something lesser than brown or blonde, she may choose to draw attention to it as a way of elevating herself or simply because she has nothing of more value to say.”” And then Benedict stood up for her too! ““Might I suggest that before you point out another’s flaws in so public and unkind a manner again, you take a moment to consider your own. They may not be so visible as a scarred face, but I assure you they are there.” Caroline’s former husband always put career and the sea before her and Meg. Benedict put Caroline above his own mother even!! And his earldom!! And this is THE best declaration of love freaking EVER: “You are Lord Benning. One day, you shall be an earl. I am the daughter of a country vicar—a scarred, virtually penniless widow with a child.” “How could I possibly dwell on the fading scars on your skin when your blue eyes and smile are so captivating?” His thumb had moved from her lips to wipe the moisture off her cheeks. “If you were anyone but the daughter of our local vicar, who enjoys being on the farm and racing boats on the river as much now as she did as a child, I would not have spent the most enjoyable days I’ve had in years these past weeks. If you were not recently widowed and the caring mother of one of the dearest children I know, you may never have developed the strength and selflessness you can now claim. Indeed, without those very aspects of your life, I likely would not have fallen so fully in love with you.” Caroline’s heart stuttered. “You . . . you have fallen in love with me?” “Irretrievably.”” And then OH MY HECK HE CLOSED THE CLEANING CLOSET DOOR AND KISSED HER. Sweetest sweetest kiss. I love this thought on kindness: ““Everyone deserves kindness. It should be at the foundation of every act and every conversation. I only wish that those who refuse to accept so simple a truth would understand that when all is said and done, thoughtless or cruel behavior ultimately causes more damage to the giver than the receiver.” Benedict showed his love to Caroline by getting the small pox vaccine. putting cowpox puss in a sore. Meg and Benedict relationship is so adorable I am dying. ““Thank you, Meg,” he said, sincerely touched. “I am honored that you believe me worthy of a kiss.” She nodded solemnly. “Mama told me a kiss is what you do when you love someone.” ““Lord Benting.” Meg’s voice was filled with wonder. “I think you must love my mama an awful lot. That was the biggest kiss of all.” So many interesting facts about small pox and the creation of the vaccine from cowpox: “It was not until Dr. Edward Jenner developed the first vaccination using cowpox material that eradication of the disease became a real possibility. Edward Jenner was born on May 17, 1749, in Berkeley, Gloucestershire. His experience in the medical field was extensive, and having grown up in the country, he was aware of the commonly held belief that dairymaids were somehow protected from smallpox.” “Interestingly, the word vaccination—which is still in use today—comes from the Latin word vaccinus, meaning “from cows,” and was coined by Dr. Jenner.” Now the world is declared free of smallpox.
May 3, 2025
An incredibly sweet historical romance.
As per usual, I love Sian's attention to historical detail and how she weaves historical events into her stories!
I also loved:
•the scarred heroine
•single mother trope
•cinnamon roll hero
•class differences
•slow-burn romance
•a dash of mystery
•the farm
•the sweetest kisses and the sweetest ending!
If you enjoy sweet historical romance, definitely check out this series/this book!
As per usual, I love Sian's attention to historical detail and how she weaves historical events into her stories!
I also loved:
•the scarred heroine
•single mother trope
•cinnamon roll hero
•class differences
•slow-burn romance
•a dash of mystery
•the farm
•the sweetest kisses and the sweetest ending!
If you enjoy sweet historical romance, definitely check out this series/this book!
March 5, 2024
A very moving story! I’ve really enjoyed this series.
September 5, 2024
I've had an up and down relationship with the Georgian Gentlemen series. Overall, my biggest complaint has been that the mysteries can take over the plot. But that wasn't the case with A Provincial Peer, and I'm so happy that the series ends with this book.
Benedict is the leading male in this story. He is the big brother to Henry who was the leading male character of the previous book, The Unassuming Curator. He is the heir to the estate and title of Lord Farwell. He likes being active on the estate with the cows and wheat. I liked that his father was an active character in the story. Often, the main male character is already the head of the estate and property, even though Benedict is very involved in the estate, his father is still the head of the house, property, and family. His father was needed for necessary estate business, but he was also a source of wisdom and advice for Benedict.
Caroline is the daughter of the local vicar. Her husband recently died of smallpox and Caroline suffered from the illness as well, but thankfully lived. Caroline and her young daughter Meg have moved back into the vicarage with her father. Caroline is still regaining her strength from her illness, but Meg is an active young girl and wanders onto the earl's property which reintroduces Caroline to Benedict. Of course, they've known each other since their youth. Caroline and Henry were close friends growing up.
I enjoyed the slow build between Caroline and Benedict. They had history, but not enough to have any hurdles to overcome with past traumas. Caroline was the sweetest character. She wanted only to help those around her and never seemed to think of herself too highly. She couldn't consider Benedict as even in the realm of possibility because of the differences in their station as well as her scarring from the illness. Benedict has no lack of humility. And he also is working hard to help all of the tenants and villagers.
The mystery in this book wasn't so much about some robbers or kidnappers. And the story was layered in a way that you could easily feel for all of the characters involved. That's all I'll say about that so I don't spoil anything.
Favorite quotes:
Side note, I appreciate how Meg wasn't dumbed down. Often times when an author isn't immediately around children of a specific age that they're writing, it can be easy to write a 4-year-old in a way that a 2-year-old might act. This is easy to understand the confusion, but as a parent of young children (my youngest is 3), it can be a pet peeve at the same time.
A Provincial Peer was such an encouraging story about a trying time in history. Smallpox was so deadly. Caroline and Benedict had a sweet journey. And I loved Meg and Benedict's relationship with her. The mystery was just enough for me that it didn't take over the rest of the plot, but it enhanced instead of taking away from the plot. A Provincial Peer gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Provincial Peer? What did you think? Let me know!
Benedict is the leading male in this story. He is the big brother to Henry who was the leading male character of the previous book, The Unassuming Curator. He is the heir to the estate and title of Lord Farwell. He likes being active on the estate with the cows and wheat. I liked that his father was an active character in the story. Often, the main male character is already the head of the estate and property, even though Benedict is very involved in the estate, his father is still the head of the house, property, and family. His father was needed for necessary estate business, but he was also a source of wisdom and advice for Benedict.
Caroline is the daughter of the local vicar. Her husband recently died of smallpox and Caroline suffered from the illness as well, but thankfully lived. Caroline and her young daughter Meg have moved back into the vicarage with her father. Caroline is still regaining her strength from her illness, but Meg is an active young girl and wanders onto the earl's property which reintroduces Caroline to Benedict. Of course, they've known each other since their youth. Caroline and Henry were close friends growing up.
I enjoyed the slow build between Caroline and Benedict. They had history, but not enough to have any hurdles to overcome with past traumas. Caroline was the sweetest character. She wanted only to help those around her and never seemed to think of herself too highly. She couldn't consider Benedict as even in the realm of possibility because of the differences in their station as well as her scarring from the illness. Benedict has no lack of humility. And he also is working hard to help all of the tenants and villagers.
The mystery in this book wasn't so much about some robbers or kidnappers. And the story was layered in a way that you could easily feel for all of the characters involved. That's all I'll say about that so I don't spoil anything.
Favorite quotes:
-"It has been my observation that those who find beauty and joy in their current circumstances will find it anywhere they may go; whereas those who always yen to be somewhere else will find those same feelings resurfacing no matter where they find themselves."
-"It is remarkable how God works within the confines of the most trying circumstances to help us improve ourselves. I would not wish the hardships you have experienced upon you or anyone else, but I see the strength and wisdom you have developed because of them."
-"Everyone deserves kindness. It should be at the foundation of every act and every conversation. I only wish that those who refuse to accept so simple a truth would understand that when all is said and done, thoughtless or cruel behavior ultimately causes more damage to the giver than the receiver."
-Frustration was a poor companion, and he knew full well that he would be better off without it, but that did not make relinquishing it easy.
-"But that is what it means to love completely and to live to its fullest, is it not? We willingly set aside our fears and take a step into the unknown--a leap of faith, if you will--so that we might experience true joy."
Side note, I appreciate how Meg wasn't dumbed down. Often times when an author isn't immediately around children of a specific age that they're writing, it can be easy to write a 4-year-old in a way that a 2-year-old might act. This is easy to understand the confusion, but as a parent of young children (my youngest is 3), it can be a pet peeve at the same time.
A Provincial Peer was such an encouraging story about a trying time in history. Smallpox was so deadly. Caroline and Benedict had a sweet journey. And I loved Meg and Benedict's relationship with her. The mystery was just enough for me that it didn't take over the rest of the plot, but it enhanced instead of taking away from the plot. A Provincial Peer gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Provincial Peer? What did you think? Let me know!
May 5, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sian Ann Bessey for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Provincial Peer coming out May 7, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. The heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. So when a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is intrigued.
Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, Caroline Granger and her young daughter, Meg, retreat to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.
Caroline is mortified when she learns of her error in addressing Lord Benning—or Benedict, as she called him during their growing-up years—as a farmhand. But shared childhood memories and a precocious four-year-old inevitably draw Benedict and Caroline together, and it’s not long before Caroline realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her—including her scars. With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for a chance at love.
I’ve read several books by this author. I love her writing! I think she does a lot of research and sticks to historical accuracy. Her stories are always a lot of fun. I tend to love her medieval stories more. I think this Georgian era setting was interesting. I loved Benedict’s character. He was very generous and kind. There was a little bit of an instalove. I know they grew up together, but he seemed to be into her from the start and it was hard to see why. Especially if he thought she was still married with a child. I would’ve liked to see a little more challenge. There wasn’t a ton of conflict either. I would’ve liked to see a bigger obstacle for them to overcome. But overall, I loved the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys sweet regency romances!
Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. The heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. So when a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is intrigued.
Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, Caroline Granger and her young daughter, Meg, retreat to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.
Caroline is mortified when she learns of her error in addressing Lord Benning—or Benedict, as she called him during their growing-up years—as a farmhand. But shared childhood memories and a precocious four-year-old inevitably draw Benedict and Caroline together, and it’s not long before Caroline realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her—including her scars. With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for a chance at love.
I’ve read several books by this author. I love her writing! I think she does a lot of research and sticks to historical accuracy. Her stories are always a lot of fun. I tend to love her medieval stories more. I think this Georgian era setting was interesting. I loved Benedict’s character. He was very generous and kind. There was a little bit of an instalove. I know they grew up together, but he seemed to be into her from the start and it was hard to see why. Especially if he thought she was still married with a child. I would’ve liked to see a little more challenge. There wasn’t a ton of conflict either. I would’ve liked to see a bigger obstacle for them to overcome. But overall, I loved the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys sweet regency romances!
May 7, 2024
All the stars for this charming, gentle romance! I’ve absolutely adored each book in the Georgian Gentlemen series and am sad to see it come to an end, but this book wraps things up in such a beautiful bow. I love second chance romances especially if they were childhood friends. This sweet story involves Caroline Granger who lost her husband to small pox and is recovering herself from the disease. Left scarred and weakened, she returns home to her father’s rectory with her darling four year old daughter Meg.
Though he’s an heir to an earldom, Lord Benning much prefers working on his farm. When Meg wanders onto his property, he’s immediately charmed by the cute little girl. When her mother comes searching for her and mistakes him for a farmhand, he’s intrigued by the veiled woman. When he discovers that it’s Caroline, his brother’s best childhood playmate and the girl he used to race boats with, he’s determined to get to know her again as adults.
I loved this tender romance! Caroline is always self conscience of her small pox scars that ravaged her body and health. I loved the way Lord Benning/Benedict could easily look past the scars, and love her. I also loved how Benedict and the women in her father’s parish help her have the courage to remove her veil. Caroline’s kind, compassionate nature completely won Benedict over and her darling daughter has “Mr. Bent” wrapped around her little finger as well. I loved the visits to the farm, boat races, rescues, the daisy crowns, that first kiss (sigh), and the natural progression from friendship to love.
I knew quite a bit about small pox going in to this story, but I loved the way the author incorporated the history in such a personal, thought provoking way. As with all of the books in the Georgian Gentlemen series, there’s a bit of a mystery involved and I enjoyed the twists that challenged my perceptions of what was going on.
Highest of recommendations for this amazing conclusion to a fabulous series! It can definitely be read as a standalone, but those who’ve read previous books will recognize mentions of familiar characters. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Though he’s an heir to an earldom, Lord Benning much prefers working on his farm. When Meg wanders onto his property, he’s immediately charmed by the cute little girl. When her mother comes searching for her and mistakes him for a farmhand, he’s intrigued by the veiled woman. When he discovers that it’s Caroline, his brother’s best childhood playmate and the girl he used to race boats with, he’s determined to get to know her again as adults.
I loved this tender romance! Caroline is always self conscience of her small pox scars that ravaged her body and health. I loved the way Lord Benning/Benedict could easily look past the scars, and love her. I also loved how Benedict and the women in her father’s parish help her have the courage to remove her veil. Caroline’s kind, compassionate nature completely won Benedict over and her darling daughter has “Mr. Bent” wrapped around her little finger as well. I loved the visits to the farm, boat races, rescues, the daisy crowns, that first kiss (sigh), and the natural progression from friendship to love.
I knew quite a bit about small pox going in to this story, but I loved the way the author incorporated the history in such a personal, thought provoking way. As with all of the books in the Georgian Gentlemen series, there’s a bit of a mystery involved and I enjoyed the twists that challenged my perceptions of what was going on.
Highest of recommendations for this amazing conclusion to a fabulous series! It can definitely be read as a standalone, but those who’ve read previous books will recognize mentions of familiar characters. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
May 6, 2024
“I know your heart, my dear. It is capable of deep emo-tion. Do not allow past experiences to stifle your ability to love or be loved.”
Kind and loyal Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. As the heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. When a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is rather intrigued.
Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, dear Caroline Granger and her delightful young daughter, Meg, return to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline bravely wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.
But shared childhood memories and a precocious four year old suddenly bring Benedict and Caroline together, and Caroline quickly realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her, including her scars.
With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must carefully decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for the chance at love…
@sian_bessey, this is a beautiful and heartwarming story, that delightfully captivates every emotion. Filled with such joy, and humor amidst the hard. This is such a dear story worth reading and loving!
“But that is what it means to love completely and to live life to its fullest, is it not? We willingly set aside our fears and take a step into the unknown—a leap of faith, if you will—so that we might experience true joy.”
#aprovincialpeer
#sianbessey
#worththeread
“Unlike cowpox, I have determined that thinking of you above anyone or anything else is an all-pervading condition from which I have no hope of recovering.”
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Kind and loyal Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. As the heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. When a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is rather intrigued.
Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, dear Caroline Granger and her delightful young daughter, Meg, return to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline bravely wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.
But shared childhood memories and a precocious four year old suddenly bring Benedict and Caroline together, and Caroline quickly realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her, including her scars.
With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must carefully decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for the chance at love…
@sian_bessey, this is a beautiful and heartwarming story, that delightfully captivates every emotion. Filled with such joy, and humor amidst the hard. This is such a dear story worth reading and loving!
“But that is what it means to love completely and to live life to its fullest, is it not? We willingly set aside our fears and take a step into the unknown—a leap of faith, if you will—so that we might experience true joy.”
#aprovincialpeer
#sianbessey
#worththeread
“Unlike cowpox, I have determined that thinking of you above anyone or anything else is an all-pervading condition from which I have no hope of recovering.”
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 7, 2024
When his younger brother's childhood playmate returns home widowed with a young daughter Meg, Benedict is happy to see her again, and soon finds himself wrapped around Meg's little finger. But Caroline is badly scarred after an attack of smallpox, caught while nursing her husband, and is finding going out into village society difficult. Benedict does what he can to coax Caroline out of her shell, but when her worst fear comes back to haunt her, will it be enough? And as he begins to realise more of the plight of the villagers after a hard year, it turns out that there's more going on than he realised. Can he solve the mystery or is not just the village but even his family in serious trouble?
I can only call this a happy-making story. I can't put my finger on what it is, but as I read this book, I just found it making me happy. It's not that there isn't hard stuff going on, or that everyone is wonderful - and though there's humour, I didn't spend the entire time laughing my head off. No, it was a quiet, deep satisfaction that went beyond words. The story itself is delightful, if in many ways nothing special - a somewhat predictable background problem, a couple enjoying spending time together, a four-year-old girl (who isn't perfect but is held to standards - refreshing), and some interesting secondary characters. But the way they're put together makes all the difference. I loved Benedict's care for and feeling of responsibility towards the villagers (not to mention Caroline's). I hated the neighbour's comments about Caroline's scars, but loved both her and Benedict's responses. And I appreciated that the bad guy had at least some positive reason for his bad actions. The mention of vaccinations was intriguing, too - it's something we tend to take for granted too often, but at one point it was new. All in all, a great read, and I'm really looking forward to the author's next book. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I can only call this a happy-making story. I can't put my finger on what it is, but as I read this book, I just found it making me happy. It's not that there isn't hard stuff going on, or that everyone is wonderful - and though there's humour, I didn't spend the entire time laughing my head off. No, it was a quiet, deep satisfaction that went beyond words. The story itself is delightful, if in many ways nothing special - a somewhat predictable background problem, a couple enjoying spending time together, a four-year-old girl (who isn't perfect but is held to standards - refreshing), and some interesting secondary characters. But the way they're put together makes all the difference. I loved Benedict's care for and feeling of responsibility towards the villagers (not to mention Caroline's). I hated the neighbour's comments about Caroline's scars, but loved both her and Benedict's responses. And I appreciated that the bad guy had at least some positive reason for his bad actions. The mention of vaccinations was intriguing, too - it's something we tend to take for granted too often, but at one point it was new. All in all, a great read, and I'm really looking forward to the author's next book. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews