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Cornwall Brides #3
Something Borrowed
Forsaking all others...
Gage Trembath is getting married. He is the only one who knows it, but the statement is true nonetheless. The woman he had once loved has been married elsewhere for a time, and he can put off his own marriage no longer. The woman he has chosen to marry, without love, is sensible, quiet, musical, and amenable, which should enable him to have a good marriage and a content life. That is all he wants now, and Honora Berkeley makes the most sense.
Honora cannot believe that a handsome and wealthy man like Gage has any interest at all in marrying her, even without love. She has certainly very little to recommend her, but escaping her life of criticism and abandonment is something she cannot resist. But what about the woman Gage had once loved? The one who was perfect for him and the one who made him determined to abandon love? Are his feelings for her truly gone? Will Honora ever have his affection along with his respect?
Gage Trembath is getting married. He is the only one who knows it, but the statement is true nonetheless. The woman he had once loved has been married elsewhere for a time, and he can put off his own marriage no longer. The woman he has chosen to marry, without love, is sensible, quiet, musical, and amenable, which should enable him to have a good marriage and a content life. That is all he wants now, and Honora Berkeley makes the most sense.
Honora cannot believe that a handsome and wealthy man like Gage has any interest at all in marrying her, even without love. She has certainly very little to recommend her, but escaping her life of criticism and abandonment is something she cannot resist. But what about the woman Gage had once loved? The one who was perfect for him and the one who made him determined to abandon love? Are his feelings for her truly gone? Will Honora ever have his affection along with his respect?
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2023
58 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
86 books1,232 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 11, 2024
I was so happy to see these two make a match, but disappointed that Gage went into the marriage with unresolved baggage from his previous experience. This is a bit of a marriage of convenience for Honoria since it gets her away from her abusive family, but her feelings naturally grow swiftly for such a considerate gentleman. Their individual hangups provide the conflict in their relationship- Gage thinking he will never love again, and Honoria completely insecure about his affections. I was glad they had the support of their friends and family- the characters from the previous books- that helped them along their bumpy road to happily-ever-after.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
January 10, 2024
I've loved Rebecca Connolly's historical romances since I first picked one up and I love this series. Gage Trembath has decided to stop "avoiding the noose of matrimony" since losing the love of his life to another man, and has decided to ask Honora Berkeley to be his wife. Her cousin Julia is one of Gage's lifelong friends and they've met a few times at social events but in no way could their interactions been misconstrued as courting.
Honora Berkeley's life at home with her parents is unbearable. They're either traveling without her or at home where they argue constantly. She knows they do not want her there and none of her siblings will let her live with them, even though she's offered herself as an unpaid governess to their children, her nieces and nephews. They won't even let her visit them on holidays. She leads a very lonely and mostly isolated life.
I loved how Gage treated Honora with respect and kindness, something she was never shown from those who should have loved her best. Because of her upbringing, Honora has many insecurities about herself except for her ability to sing. I absolutely loved watching their friendship develop and then become something so much more. One of my favorite parts is Gage telling Honora "You don't have to be anything for anyone other than yourself. And you are not responsible for anyone's expectations of you other than yourself."
Gage helped Honora come into her own but she also helped him by bringing light and music into his life. I loved seeing Honora come into her own and was so saddened when she thought Gage's previous love had come to claim him back. Miscommunications like that irk me so much--all she had to do was talk to him!! Thankfully everything get straightened out and these two wonderful people get their happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Content: mild bible swears, a miscarriage happens.
Honora Berkeley's life at home with her parents is unbearable. They're either traveling without her or at home where they argue constantly. She knows they do not want her there and none of her siblings will let her live with them, even though she's offered herself as an unpaid governess to their children, her nieces and nephews. They won't even let her visit them on holidays. She leads a very lonely and mostly isolated life.
I loved how Gage treated Honora with respect and kindness, something she was never shown from those who should have loved her best. Because of her upbringing, Honora has many insecurities about herself except for her ability to sing. I absolutely loved watching their friendship develop and then become something so much more. One of my favorite parts is Gage telling Honora "You don't have to be anything for anyone other than yourself. And you are not responsible for anyone's expectations of you other than yourself."
Gage helped Honora come into her own but she also helped him by bringing light and music into his life. I loved seeing Honora come into her own and was so saddened when she thought Gage's previous love had come to claim him back. Miscommunications like that irk me so much--all she had to do was talk to him!! Thankfully everything get straightened out and these two wonderful people get their happy ending.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Content: mild bible swears, a miscarriage happens.
December 2, 2023
I really liked this book. I don’t know of any other book by Rebecca Connolly where the heroine’s backstory is so oppressive except maybe for Moira in An Arrangemnent of Sorts. I was impressed by the development of Honora’s character, yet saddened by her insecurities. She and Gage have a fun relationship, going from acquaintances, to friends, to lovers. I wonder how I would have managed in that time period under a similar situation. Kudos to Rebecca Connolly for another great book.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
Growth and struggles in a marriage of convenience
This book had me smiling, laughing, cheering, and crying. It is a tale of growing as a person when placed in a relationship that encourages growth and how the shadows of the past can threaten that growth as well as the relationship. After having the woman, he planned to marry, accept another’s proposal, Gage is determined to marry for convenience. A sensible wife. A level headed, competent, charming woman. Honora was just such a woman and so he proposed marriage. But what Gage was soon to discover was that her background was significantly different than what he expected. Honora, the fourth child and third daughter, was seen as a failure from the day of her birth. She was ignored unless it was a reprimand and she carried hidden traumas from the encounters. As she agrees to the marriage to escape her parents, Gage is determined to encourage her growth but neither fully anticipated the struggles nor the triumphs they would face. An excellent read. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
This book had me smiling, laughing, cheering, and crying. It is a tale of growing as a person when placed in a relationship that encourages growth and how the shadows of the past can threaten that growth as well as the relationship. After having the woman, he planned to marry, accept another’s proposal, Gage is determined to marry for convenience. A sensible wife. A level headed, competent, charming woman. Honora was just such a woman and so he proposed marriage. But what Gage was soon to discover was that her background was significantly different than what he expected. Honora, the fourth child and third daughter, was seen as a failure from the day of her birth. She was ignored unless it was a reprimand and she carried hidden traumas from the encounters. As she agrees to the marriage to escape her parents, Gage is determined to encourage her growth but neither fully anticipated the struggles nor the triumphs they would face. An excellent read. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
November 27, 2023
This is a slow moving gentle romance. She is super unsure of herself and place in the world after being abused by her parents. He is a clueless man who thinks he'll never find love again. I missed a lot of the tension Connolly normally writes in her romances but this one felt different then all her others have. There was a depth here that I have not seen in her other romances. The end just tugged all the heart strings. This reminded me more of a Sarah Eden book. Love the added Irish elements. I hope that I got hints that this will be her next series with some of these single Irish cousins:}
This is an adult novel with themes of miscarriage and people healing from abuse and injuries. No religion. Clean
This is an adult novel with themes of miscarriage and people healing from abuse and injuries. No religion. Clean
December 13, 2023
A marriage of convenience story. I liked Gage and Honora, especially their place in society. While both from more exalted backgrounds, they were both very down to earth and kind to everyone.
The story had more details or reflecting back on the consummation of their marriage. I usually encourage my teen to read Rebecca Connolly’s books with me, but it was too much of a theme in this story for that.
I loved the sweetness of the romance, and cursed the stupidity of poor communication. This story was full of wit and character growth.
The story had more details or reflecting back on the consummation of their marriage. I usually encourage my teen to read Rebecca Connolly’s books with me, but it was too much of a theme in this story for that.
I loved the sweetness of the romance, and cursed the stupidity of poor communication. This story was full of wit and character growth.
December 14, 2023
This was a really sweet story - here are some of the things I loved...
- Cornwall is one of my favorite places in England. (Think Poldark if you've seen it!) I loved the traditions and culture that were described!
- I love that the characters seemed human - with struggles, happiness, sadness, miscommunications, mistakes, insecurities, etc.
- This was a great story with a marriage of convenience
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions!
- Cornwall is one of my favorite places in England. (Think Poldark if you've seen it!) I loved the traditions and culture that were described!
- I love that the characters seemed human - with struggles, happiness, sadness, miscommunications, mistakes, insecurities, etc.
- This was a great story with a marriage of convenience
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions!
December 13, 2023
Rebecca Connolly has been a favorite of ours for years, and reading one of her books feels like coming home.
I adore her characters. They are strong and broken at the same time. She’s so good at both breaking her characters and building them up and it’s a beautiful thing to read.
Her characters are witty, relatable and all together engaging. I loved Gage, admittedly most of my book boyfriend picks come from her books.
This story is full of emotion: both pain and laughter. The banter she’s so good at and the passion too.
The main characters in the book are married within the first few chapters,
so there is talk about intimacy in marriage but nothing on page.
Like always with Rebecca’s books it is done in a swoony but tasteful way. More openness in a respectful way between married people is needed. Not in a sordid or tawdry way, but in a sweet way, and she hits that balance so well.
I really loved this whole story. The tension, the ebb and flow and the uncertainties as they grew in their feelings had me captivated.
And Rebecca’s subtle cleverness always makes me smile. Please tell me you all loved the name of his estate as much as I did.
**Spoiler Alert because it’s necessary**
TW: There is a miscarriage in the book, and full disclosure, this can sometimes be a trigger for me, but it wasn’t this time. It was a beautiful way to show the personality and history of Honora. As well as the emotion behind such a loss regardless of how soon it happens was powerful and well written.
I adore her characters. They are strong and broken at the same time. She’s so good at both breaking her characters and building them up and it’s a beautiful thing to read.
Her characters are witty, relatable and all together engaging. I loved Gage, admittedly most of my book boyfriend picks come from her books.
This story is full of emotion: both pain and laughter. The banter she’s so good at and the passion too.
The main characters in the book are married within the first few chapters,
so there is talk about intimacy in marriage but nothing on page.
Like always with Rebecca’s books it is done in a swoony but tasteful way. More openness in a respectful way between married people is needed. Not in a sordid or tawdry way, but in a sweet way, and she hits that balance so well.
I really loved this whole story. The tension, the ebb and flow and the uncertainties as they grew in their feelings had me captivated.
And Rebecca’s subtle cleverness always makes me smile. Please tell me you all loved the name of his estate as much as I did.
**Spoiler Alert because it’s necessary**
TW: There is a miscarriage in the book, and full disclosure, this can sometimes be a trigger for me, but it wasn’t this time. It was a beautiful way to show the personality and history of Honora. As well as the emotion behind such a loss regardless of how soon it happens was powerful and well written.
December 5, 2023
3.5 stars. The cover of this book is stunning and the idea of this series makes me happy. I love the beginning of the story, with the introductions of Gage and Honora, excepting the unbelievably harsh behavior of Honora’s parents while in the company of a guest. Honora and Gage are fabulous characters and their tender relationship is filled with promise. Honora’s self-doubt, a result of verbal and emotional parental abuse, plagues her and is the basis for much of the story. She sees what she wants to see and struggles to believe the affections and loyalty of her husband.
One issue I have with this story is the amount of internal dialogue. During a conversation, a character might “think” to himself/herself for several paragraphs, creating, what is for me, a disconnect in the conversation (I have to go back a page to remember what the characters are talking about).
There is much discussion about marital intimacy. Honora’s parents’ make derogatory comments, Gage asks Julia to “have the talk” with Honora so she’s not “horrified”, the wedding night (Honora’s reminiscence goes on for paragraphs and Gage reminisces chapters later), a fade to black intimate scene, and Honora’s later conversation with Julia. It is too much for my taste in a sweet/clean romance.
I received a digital copy of this story. This is my opinion.
One issue I have with this story is the amount of internal dialogue. During a conversation, a character might “think” to himself/herself for several paragraphs, creating, what is for me, a disconnect in the conversation (I have to go back a page to remember what the characters are talking about).
There is much discussion about marital intimacy. Honora’s parents’ make derogatory comments, Gage asks Julia to “have the talk” with Honora so she’s not “horrified”, the wedding night (Honora’s reminiscence goes on for paragraphs and Gage reminisces chapters later), a fade to black intimate scene, and Honora’s later conversation with Julia. It is too much for my taste in a sweet/clean romance.
I received a digital copy of this story. This is my opinion.
November 13, 2024
So far in this series there is one theme that just makes you roll your eyes, the way these gentlemen goes about the whole marriage thing. Big sigh.
Of the three, I still have to say this went far better than the priviouse ones that was quite catastrophic for a long time. Something borrowed is a sweet story with two very likable but not confident persons when it came to love. He never thought about marrying for love, she never dared dream of it.
And we get to meet old friends, go down a mine and get to experience Cornwall again, of course. This will definatly be a new favorite on my bookshelf.
Of the three, I still have to say this went far better than the priviouse ones that was quite catastrophic for a long time. Something borrowed is a sweet story with two very likable but not confident persons when it came to love. He never thought about marrying for love, she never dared dream of it.
And we get to meet old friends, go down a mine and get to experience Cornwall again, of course. This will definatly be a new favorite on my bookshelf.
January 2, 2024
This was boring. Plot is very thin. Develops exactloy as expected.
January 24, 2025
I was so excited to see Gage finally get his story. Marriage of convenience turned into a relationship of great happiness. The description of Cornwall makes me want to go and explore it myself.
July 23, 2025
Rebecca Connolly is a hit or miss author for me. I have read some of hers that I liked a lot (The Rules of Matchmaking for one), but DNF others due problems that I could not overlook. So, I went into Something Borrowed with a skeptical mind, and somewhat low expectations.
I own an e-book version of this novel because when I read the premise it intrigued me. I downloaded a sample to my Kindle, and the first paragraph got me. However, I didn’t read it right away, but now that I have, I am glad I read it.
This is not to say that it didn’t have some predictability in it, but all romances do IMO. I saw certain things coming just because you need tension or conflict of some kind, and responses of characters were also not surprising. However, as far as romances go, it is a nice read, and I forgave the author how predictable it was because of the emotional sensitivity of the characters’ mindset. Honora’s, the heroine, pain was real, and the way she talked to herself was very relatable. Who doesn’t struggle with insecurities?
And Gage, the hero, had moments of swoon-worthy behavior, but also moments of carelessness that hurt his wife. One moment you love him, the next you wanted to smack him over the head. But what human isn’t like that?
My other complaint about this book is that some scenes would go on for too long. A better editor would (I hope) fixed some of that. If some of the scenes were shorter, it would have made more of an impact and leave the reader wanting more.
I give this 3***½* rounded up to 4**** because I did like the story and could really relate to the heroine, Honora. Highly recommend if you like emotional stories in the Regency Romance genre.
I own an e-book version of this novel because when I read the premise it intrigued me. I downloaded a sample to my Kindle, and the first paragraph got me. However, I didn’t read it right away, but now that I have, I am glad I read it.
This is not to say that it didn’t have some predictability in it, but all romances do IMO. I saw certain things coming just because you need tension or conflict of some kind, and responses of characters were also not surprising. However, as far as romances go, it is a nice read, and I forgave the author how predictable it was because of the emotional sensitivity of the characters’ mindset. Honora’s, the heroine, pain was real, and the way she talked to herself was very relatable. Who doesn’t struggle with insecurities?
And Gage, the hero, had moments of swoon-worthy behavior, but also moments of carelessness that hurt his wife. One moment you love him, the next you wanted to smack him over the head. But what human isn’t like that?
My other complaint about this book is that some scenes would go on for too long. A better editor would (I hope) fixed some of that. If some of the scenes were shorter, it would have made more of an impact and leave the reader wanting more.
I give this 3***½* rounded up to 4**** because I did like the story and could really relate to the heroine, Honora. Highly recommend if you like emotional stories in the Regency Romance genre.
December 11, 2023
I fell in love with Rebecca Connolly’s Cornwall Brides series reading the first two installments and the opportunity to continue delving into this Regency world was impossible to pass up! Marriages of convenience come in many forms and in this one, Gage and Honora start out as friendly acquaintances but knowing very little about each other. From the beginning, Gage is determined to treat his new wife with honour and respect, even if he believes he could never love her, having loved and lost before. Honora has been subjected to much criticism and verbal abuse in her family growing up and has never truly experienced love in her life. I really enjoyed Rebecca’s exploration of the meaning of family and how their previous experiences of family came out in how they related to friends and family around them. When Gage’s previous love interest returns to the area, having been widowed, things get more complicated, especially with a life-threatening situation to be overcome and unspoken assumptions threatening to derail fragile developing feelings. Yet through it all, Gage’s determination that Honora should become her own woman, as well as his many strong friendships with those in all levels of society, showed a depth of maturity and security often not found in heroes of this period. Learning their backgrounds enable me to see their characters grow and develop as the story progressed and I could not put this book down! I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance, and I cannot wait to see what happens next! I received a complimentary copy of this book by the author and all the opinions expressed in this review are my own and freely given.
December 6, 2023
Something Borrowed by Rebecca Connolly (5 stars)
This is a wonderful romance of a marriage of convenience that turns into a marriage of love.
Gage has been jilted by the only woman he has ever loved and has locked his heart away and thrown away the key. He decides to offer for the cousin of his friend, Julia. This cousin has visited Julia a few times and Gage has met her. He knows she has the most beautiful singing voice that he has ever heard, and is living in a horrid family situation. He decides that by choosing her, both their hearts will be safe.
Honora, Julia’s cousin, is shocked by this unexpected proposal from Gage Trembath. But she is eager to escape her parents who are cruel to her and to each other. She longs for love and acceptance, but she’ll settle for less just to escape her parents.
This begins a journey of discovery as this husband and wife build a friendship and then become lovers (all love scenes are behind closed doors).
Honora fits perfectly into Gage’s life and brings joy, light, music and family to him. Gage, in his turn, encourages Honora to become her true self; to try to silence the cruel voices of her parents and to find out who she really is and what she really wants.
This was a gripping story and full of romance, music and family. The good times are balanced by trials in this book and I liked that because it kept it feeling more real.
This is probably my favorite in the series so far!
This is a wonderful romance of a marriage of convenience that turns into a marriage of love.
Gage has been jilted by the only woman he has ever loved and has locked his heart away and thrown away the key. He decides to offer for the cousin of his friend, Julia. This cousin has visited Julia a few times and Gage has met her. He knows she has the most beautiful singing voice that he has ever heard, and is living in a horrid family situation. He decides that by choosing her, both their hearts will be safe.
Honora, Julia’s cousin, is shocked by this unexpected proposal from Gage Trembath. But she is eager to escape her parents who are cruel to her and to each other. She longs for love and acceptance, but she’ll settle for less just to escape her parents.
This begins a journey of discovery as this husband and wife build a friendship and then become lovers (all love scenes are behind closed doors).
Honora fits perfectly into Gage’s life and brings joy, light, music and family to him. Gage, in his turn, encourages Honora to become her true self; to try to silence the cruel voices of her parents and to find out who she really is and what she really wants.
This was a gripping story and full of romance, music and family. The good times are balanced by trials in this book and I liked that because it kept it feeling more real.
This is probably my favorite in the series so far!
December 31, 2023
Absolutely adored this story. Honora Berkeley had a hard home life raised by difficult parents with no hope of escape until an shocking proposal from a man she hardly knows gives her a chance at possibly a different life. She accepts a marriage of convenience hoping for the best and a chance to live nearer her cousin. Confused about her new husband's generosity, kindness, and willingness to let her be who she wants to be, Honora faces her future with brighter hope. Soon she finds herself growing and falling in love with her husband.
Gage Trembath sees a sensible Honora as a solution to marry and start his family hoping to prevent past mistakes. Slowly the opinions he had formed of her change when he sees her change and find herself among the insecurities her parents forced on her. She blossoms and fits into his world perfectly. Gage and Honora work to find love even through confusion and misunderstanding.
I loved this story I think because I could feel Honora and Gage's love story come to life on the pages. It was a story of a caterpillar blossoming into a butterfly so to speak. Gage was what she needed, but even he had his faults. I loved how they work through the heartache and cling to one another. To me this was a new favorite of this author. It was a clean romance with kisses and closed door marriage moments. I was given an ARC of this book. The opinion in this book is mine and mine alone.
Gage Trembath sees a sensible Honora as a solution to marry and start his family hoping to prevent past mistakes. Slowly the opinions he had formed of her change when he sees her change and find herself among the insecurities her parents forced on her. She blossoms and fits into his world perfectly. Gage and Honora work to find love even through confusion and misunderstanding.
I loved this story I think because I could feel Honora and Gage's love story come to life on the pages. It was a story of a caterpillar blossoming into a butterfly so to speak. Gage was what she needed, but even he had his faults. I loved how they work through the heartache and cling to one another. To me this was a new favorite of this author. It was a clean romance with kisses and closed door marriage moments. I was given an ARC of this book. The opinion in this book is mine and mine alone.
December 21, 2023
My rating: 4.5 stars rounded up
"Will ye not come back again?" He whispered against her hair. "Better loved ye cannot be. Will ye not come back again?"
This book ripped my heart out then put it back again. Then ripped it back out and put it back again and again.
I love a good marriage-of-convenience book, and Honora and Gage were the perfect couple for it. Their relationship was super fun from the very beginning, and I enjoyed watching the interplay between the two love interests.
Honora's backstory is so, so sad, and I will say that the emotional abuse from her parents and the lasting effects that had on her was devastating to see. Having experienced some level of that myself, this book was at times hard to read because of how raw and real the feelings are. That being said, it was a beautiful thing to watch Honora grow in confidence and self-esteem, and to watch her heal from the wounds of her past.
This is a romance with depth and strength and love. It is a beautiful tribute to the support that can be found in friends and the family you choose.
Heartbreakingly beautiful, full of hope and healing, Something Borrowed is a story that will stay with you long after you finish it.
Thank you, thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"Will ye not come back again?" He whispered against her hair. "Better loved ye cannot be. Will ye not come back again?"
This book ripped my heart out then put it back again. Then ripped it back out and put it back again and again.
I love a good marriage-of-convenience book, and Honora and Gage were the perfect couple for it. Their relationship was super fun from the very beginning, and I enjoyed watching the interplay between the two love interests.
Honora's backstory is so, so sad, and I will say that the emotional abuse from her parents and the lasting effects that had on her was devastating to see. Having experienced some level of that myself, this book was at times hard to read because of how raw and real the feelings are. That being said, it was a beautiful thing to watch Honora grow in confidence and self-esteem, and to watch her heal from the wounds of her past.
This is a romance with depth and strength and love. It is a beautiful tribute to the support that can be found in friends and the family you choose.
Heartbreakingly beautiful, full of hope and healing, Something Borrowed is a story that will stay with you long after you finish it.
Thank you, thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2023
A beautiful, and touching marriage of convenience to true love. Honora’s parents were disappointed when she was born they wanted a son, not another daughter. They belittled her, ignored her and basically shunned her. On a rare occasion, she was able to visit her cousin in Cornwall, which was the happiest time of her life. While there she made the acquaintance of her cousins friends, but was surprised when one showed up on her doorstep. She didn’t know Gage very well so to say she was stunned when he asked her to marry him, is an understatement. He offered a marriage of convenience not one of love. The fact that she hadn’t had any love at home and he seemed to be a gentle and caring person. She said yes. So many books share the story of courtship and falling in love, but rarely do we read about the falling in love with your spouse. Everything about this book is charming and sweet. I love how Gabe encouraged and supported Honora to become comfortable and her new life and build her self-esteem. He was forward thinking having her his partner in all things and giving her freedom to grow. I loved watching their love and affection grow and be tested and grow some more.. Wonderful, and delightful love story
December 5, 2023
From the beginning I found myself rooting for these two! Gage may well be the perfect man. Having been jilted in the past he is now looking to enter a marriage of convenience, confident that he will never love and be hurt like that again, but wanting to have a genuine relationship based on respect and friendship. Honora is so damaged from a lifetime of psychological abuse at the hands of her family that she has no idea of who she really is and is happy to feel the freedom that comes with her new marriage, even without the prospect of love. The two are absolutely lovely together. He is so understanding of her needs and so supportive in allowing her to find her self confidence. The connections that they make are so sweet, and the doubts and fears are so achingly real that as they make their way towards genuine happiness you find yourself completely invested in the outcome.
As the third book in the Cornwall Brides series, it was so nice to reconnect with some favorite characters. This clean, sweet story can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the series in order to get the most out of character development.
As the third book in the Cornwall Brides series, it was so nice to reconnect with some favorite characters. This clean, sweet story can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the series in order to get the most out of character development.
December 6, 2023
This book was unexpected. It starts off with a man, Gage, seeking a wife. But not just any woman, only Honora, whom he only had a passing acquaintance with in the past. She is in such a horrible situation with her parents that she welcomes the marriage proposal from a man she doesn’t really know but has respected from afar.
From there the book focuses on the journey of these two as their marriage goes from strangers to friends to the possibility of more between them. Because of her abusive family she has low self esteem and low expectations of how she should be treated. Gage is actually a really cool guy, super nice and considerate. He treats Honora with respect and kindness. But it’s an uphill battle getting her to see her value.
This is a slow burn romance but I would definitely put it more in the woman’s fiction category. The personal growth you see with Honora is what shines through in this book. It’s moving and touching. The couple goes through hard times together and come out stronger on the other side. There are unexpected twists to the story that make it all the more interesting. I really enjoyed this feel good book.
Rating: G, clean, closed door romance.
From there the book focuses on the journey of these two as their marriage goes from strangers to friends to the possibility of more between them. Because of her abusive family she has low self esteem and low expectations of how she should be treated. Gage is actually a really cool guy, super nice and considerate. He treats Honora with respect and kindness. But it’s an uphill battle getting her to see her value.
This is a slow burn romance but I would definitely put it more in the woman’s fiction category. The personal growth you see with Honora is what shines through in this book. It’s moving and touching. The couple goes through hard times together and come out stronger on the other side. There are unexpected twists to the story that make it all the more interesting. I really enjoyed this feel good book.
Rating: G, clean, closed door romance.
December 9, 2023
Emotional
I loved this book and at the same time hated it! I have never been abused, but I had very low self-esteem growing up and always felt inferior to those around me. It is better now that I’m an adult, but I can relate to wondering about your husband’s true feelings. I think it’s a struggle some people have with self-confidence. This level of emotional depth was so relatable to me with the characters that I was enthralled every step of the way! Honora’s insecurities were present throughout the entire book, as one reviewer mentioned, but I found it incredibly realistic. Some insecurities take years to get over, especially if that is all you have ever known previously, as in Honora’s case.
I won’t give out spoilers, but the event that happens at the end of the book happened to me as well, and I was in tears when I finished. If the writing hadn’t been so good, I probably wouldn’t have so involved in the lives of the characters.
I feel like this has been one of the most seamless, fluid books that Rebecca Connolly has written yet. I love each and every one of her books and look eagerly forward to reading more!
I loved this book and at the same time hated it! I have never been abused, but I had very low self-esteem growing up and always felt inferior to those around me. It is better now that I’m an adult, but I can relate to wondering about your husband’s true feelings. I think it’s a struggle some people have with self-confidence. This level of emotional depth was so relatable to me with the characters that I was enthralled every step of the way! Honora’s insecurities were present throughout the entire book, as one reviewer mentioned, but I found it incredibly realistic. Some insecurities take years to get over, especially if that is all you have ever known previously, as in Honora’s case.
I won’t give out spoilers, but the event that happens at the end of the book happened to me as well, and I was in tears when I finished. If the writing hadn’t been so good, I probably wouldn’t have so involved in the lives of the characters.
I feel like this has been one of the most seamless, fluid books that Rebecca Connolly has written yet. I love each and every one of her books and look eagerly forward to reading more!
December 10, 2023
Gage, a very tenderhearted man, was in the habit of rescuing animals. So, it only makes sense that he extends that type of compassion and offers to marry Honora and take her away from her truly terrible parents. They did not see her value and only wanted to be rid of her. I don’t think Gage thought he was rescuing her, but he truly did. It was a tender love story as Gage and Honora find that their marriage was more than just one of convenience. They both come to appreciate and love each other.
Favorite Gage quotes to Honora:
“You don’t have to be anything for anyone other than yourself.”
“You are my home, Nora."
While I loved reading about Honora and Gage’s developing relationship, I did feel the pacing was a bit too slow for me. It was the first book that I have read in the series, so I think I may have missed some background that would have made this feel more like a reunion of old friends and a continuation of the other books.
*verbal abuse, mild swearing
I received this book from AustenProse Book Tours. I was not expected to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Favorite Gage quotes to Honora:
“You don’t have to be anything for anyone other than yourself.”
“You are my home, Nora."
While I loved reading about Honora and Gage’s developing relationship, I did feel the pacing was a bit too slow for me. It was the first book that I have read in the series, so I think I may have missed some background that would have made this feel more like a reunion of old friends and a continuation of the other books.
*verbal abuse, mild swearing
I received this book from AustenProse Book Tours. I was not expected to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
December 5, 2023
4.5 stars
Let me just start with the fact that Honora's parents get the worst parents of the year award - every year of Honora's life. The worst. And because they are so horrible, Honora goes into this marriage of convenience with some real scars resulting in serious insecurity.
Gage is a good man and pretty forward thinking in terms of marriage being a partnership but he was also dense in some ways.
This whole story is two people in a marriage of convenience learning to love each other, and themselves. They are both likable characters but were slow to recognize their own feelings and even slower about sharing them. I felt like the angst of not knowing the other person's feelings went on a little too long and I began to yell at my kindle, "USE YOUR WORDS. Ask questions, share intimate thoughts, confess your true feelings..." But once they did finally confess, it was a sweet moment that pulled at my heart strings. As a couple, they have some sweet and swoony moments throughout their early marriage. It is a good story.
Potential triggers: parental abuse and neglect, miscarriage
Sex: implied marital, references
Language: a little
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Let me just start with the fact that Honora's parents get the worst parents of the year award - every year of Honora's life. The worst. And because they are so horrible, Honora goes into this marriage of convenience with some real scars resulting in serious insecurity.
Gage is a good man and pretty forward thinking in terms of marriage being a partnership but he was also dense in some ways.
This whole story is two people in a marriage of convenience learning to love each other, and themselves. They are both likable characters but were slow to recognize their own feelings and even slower about sharing them. I felt like the angst of not knowing the other person's feelings went on a little too long and I began to yell at my kindle, "USE YOUR WORDS. Ask questions, share intimate thoughts, confess your true feelings..." But once they did finally confess, it was a sweet moment that pulled at my heart strings. As a couple, they have some sweet and swoony moments throughout their early marriage. It is a good story.
Potential triggers: parental abuse and neglect, miscarriage
Sex: implied marital, references
Language: a little
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
December 1, 2023
Oh, it is lovely to be back in Cornwall with these friends! Gage's story is quite fun, full of ups and downs.
He has decided to never love again, yet Honora keeps coming to his mind as a wife. Honora has been raised in an unkind home, with selfish parents and siblings. The only love she has ever felt was from her cousin Julia. Gage decides to make her his wife and save her from that life.
As he allows her to grow and learn about herself, doubts and fears grow too. Can she find a way to overcome her fears and keep this man in her life.
The characters were great, there is a lot of Honora in all of us. Our fears, our insecurities, our lack of faith in ourselves, we can all relate and understand. Gage is a sweet guy, one of those one in a million kind, who wants the best for others, but is still blind to what is in front of him.
This was a fun read and a great companion to the other books in this series.
He has decided to never love again, yet Honora keeps coming to his mind as a wife. Honora has been raised in an unkind home, with selfish parents and siblings. The only love she has ever felt was from her cousin Julia. Gage decides to make her his wife and save her from that life.
As he allows her to grow and learn about herself, doubts and fears grow too. Can she find a way to overcome her fears and keep this man in her life.
The characters were great, there is a lot of Honora in all of us. Our fears, our insecurities, our lack of faith in ourselves, we can all relate and understand. Gage is a sweet guy, one of those one in a million kind, who wants the best for others, but is still blind to what is in front of him.
This was a fun read and a great companion to the other books in this series.
December 12, 2023
Something Borrowed by Rebecca Connolly is next in the Cornwall Brides Series. Gage Trembath is hands down my new favorite male hero. He is intelligent, gentle, mild, and a titled gentleman who is not afraid to get his hands dirty. His heart has been broken before, so he has carefully built walls to protect himself from that pain again. He does have to get married though, and he has decided to approach it sensibly. He chooses a sensible woman that meets all the criteria. Honora is an attractive, quiet mouse who has a beautiful voice. He enters her world and sees for himself why she is so quiet and tame. He marries her and gives her permission to be herself. Really and truly herself, with no expectations. He is patient while she discovers new things and along the way, strikes up a genuine friendship. Honora is plagued by insecurities and Gage is so patient with her. He just calmly coaxes her out of her shell and empowers her to enjoy her new situation. At first, I was thankful, then impressed, then just wrecked. Watching their tender love grow and blossom, despite the multiple storms, was so sweetly satisfying. I found myself so caught up in this story, I did not want it to end. I still cannot tell if this was because of Connolly’s writing, or because of so many emotions that were relatable. Either way, I highly recommend this one. It is a clean, romantic story that can be enjoyed even if you have not read other books in the series (although some characters may make a little more sense if you do).
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
December 28, 2023
This was a fun edition to Connolly's Cornwall Brides series and I loved seeing Gage and Honora get their happily ever after.
Honora's parents and family do not appreciate her, in fact they heavily mistreat her and put her down. When Gage determines to take a bride, he asks the unexpecting Honora who decides marriage to Gage has to be better than her current circumstances. I loved the way Gage treated Honora and how he allowed her to grow and see her worth. The romance was sweet and I loved the dual POV. Honora struggles regularly with her insecurities which made her really realistic. I like how Gage saw her worth though and helps her to see that she is loved for who she is. Overall, I enjoyed the book. 4.5 stars
Content warning: miscarriage and familial verbal abuse.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Honora's parents and family do not appreciate her, in fact they heavily mistreat her and put her down. When Gage determines to take a bride, he asks the unexpecting Honora who decides marriage to Gage has to be better than her current circumstances. I loved the way Gage treated Honora and how he allowed her to grow and see her worth. The romance was sweet and I loved the dual POV. Honora struggles regularly with her insecurities which made her really realistic. I like how Gage saw her worth though and helps her to see that she is loved for who she is. Overall, I enjoyed the book. 4.5 stars
Content warning: miscarriage and familial verbal abuse.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 17, 2023
clean romance
Five plus stars!
I really enjoyed this story and was sorry when I finished it. I wanted to keep reading about these characters and their experiences and journey together.
This author does a fantastic job of creating inviting worlds and great characters that seem to become real.
Both the hero and heroine are kind and have generous hearts, but both are equally broken in a sense. The hero’s heart was broken by a past relationship and has closed his heart completely off. The heroine has never known love due to the family she has.
I enjoyed how each rescued the other and the interaction between the two is sweet and touching.
I have enjoyed this author, the series and this story…and look forward to reading more from her.
Five plus stars!
I really enjoyed this story and was sorry when I finished it. I wanted to keep reading about these characters and their experiences and journey together.
This author does a fantastic job of creating inviting worlds and great characters that seem to become real.
Both the hero and heroine are kind and have generous hearts, but both are equally broken in a sense. The hero’s heart was broken by a past relationship and has closed his heart completely off. The heroine has never known love due to the family she has.
I enjoyed how each rescued the other and the interaction between the two is sweet and touching.
I have enjoyed this author, the series and this story…and look forward to reading more from her.
December 8, 2023
A slow-burning romance that starts with a marriage and follows the couple, Gage and Honora, as they fall in love. They start their marriage of convenience each facing their own personal challenges. Gage was jilted by his first love, and Honora grew up with abusive parents. Both of them lack confidence that they find through their growing love for each other.
I would have liked a faster pace and more tension and humor, but it was sweet and thoughtful. Thank you to @austenprose and the author for a complimentary copy of the book!
I would have liked a faster pace and more tension and humor, but it was sweet and thoughtful. Thank you to @austenprose and the author for a complimentary copy of the book!
December 9, 2023
Something Borrowed (Cornwall Brides) - a must read
Rebecca Connolly never disappoints. Each book leaves me eager for the next, and “Something Borrowed” is no exception. Honora’s story gives assurance that we can rise above what we leave behind. Gage might be a little more perfect than reality, but we can hope! Her characters are deeply defined and relatable. The storylines are never the same and always compelling. Regardless of the genre, Rebecca has a special way of transferring the story that’s in her heart to the page. Can’t wait for “Something Blue.”
Rebecca Connolly never disappoints. Each book leaves me eager for the next, and “Something Borrowed” is no exception. Honora’s story gives assurance that we can rise above what we leave behind. Gage might be a little more perfect than reality, but we can hope! Her characters are deeply defined and relatable. The storylines are never the same and always compelling. Regardless of the genre, Rebecca has a special way of transferring the story that’s in her heart to the page. Can’t wait for “Something Blue.”
December 22, 2023
Loved this book!
Marriage of convenience is a favorite of mine.
Gage and Nora had amazing chemistry from the start!
I loved how he was always watching her trying to make her happy and she did the same ( if not more for him).
Gage had some real swoon worthy moments but then some stupid moments to that I never understood and thought they would be explained later but they weren’t. ( Dance, ring…).
Loved the friendships, the funny moments and the sweet ending.
Hope we see more of them in the next book🥰
Marriage of convenience is a favorite of mine.
Gage and Nora had amazing chemistry from the start!
I loved how he was always watching her trying to make her happy and she did the same ( if not more for him).
Gage had some real swoon worthy moments but then some stupid moments to that I never understood and thought they would be explained later but they weren’t. ( Dance, ring…).
Loved the friendships, the funny moments and the sweet ending.
Hope we see more of them in the next book🥰
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