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The Huntresses #2
The Best of Friends
Daria Mullins just accomplished the seemingly impossible --she successfully convinced her parents to grant her one final London Season. Though their concession comes with certain expectations, Daria is determined to enjoy every moment alongside her dear friends, the Huntresses, as they make their annual foray into the Marriage Mart.
Toss Comstock has no interest in marriage. His only purpose in London is to enjoy his Bachelor Season before he’s forced to follow whatever path his elder brother deems best. But his plans are quickly turned upside down when he strikes a bargain with the lovely Miss Mullins at the Debenham Ball. The longtime acquaintances discover that they share the maddening affliction of familial pressures, leading them to hatch an outlandish plan: they will engage in a friendly competition. Whoever participates in the most activities their family would disapprove of will be crowned the winner. But amid the fun and games, Daria and Toss never imagined that true love would become the ultimate prize.
Toss Comstock has no interest in marriage. His only purpose in London is to enjoy his Bachelor Season before he’s forced to follow whatever path his elder brother deems best. But his plans are quickly turned upside down when he strikes a bargain with the lovely Miss Mullins at the Debenham Ball. The longtime acquaintances discover that they share the maddening affliction of familial pressures, leading them to hatch an outlandish plan: they will engage in a friendly competition. Whoever participates in the most activities their family would disapprove of will be crowned the winner. But amid the fun and games, Daria and Toss never imagined that true love would become the ultimate prize.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
March 30, 2024
Guuuuuyyyyysss 💙💙 let’s just take a moment to sigh over the book***************😍 ok, I think I can safely say this book was one of Sarah’s best. Now I realize that’s a high rating indeed, because I have some high Sarah standards. But this one, will just fill you in ways you didn’t even know you needed. Now the whole thing is so good, but trust me, the last 1/3 of the book is Where! It’s! At! 💙💙💙💙
Ok enough gushing… just kidding, there is more. I don’t wanna give any sort of spoilers, but this book has soooo many beloved characters from Sarah’s incredible world she has created, and it just literally felt like coming home. I wanted to just soak it all in, and never let it end. I was so sad when it came to an end, and I knew I had to wait to get a piece of this beautiful world again.
Our sweet Daria and Toss are our leading characters, and I loved them. They are so perfect for each other, and the love and support they show one another through their horrible challenges is sooo good. Their love is sweet, gradual and #goals!
This is the official 2nd book in the Huntresses series, but don’t forget Ellie and Artemis’s stories, so I count it as the 4th. It can be read as a standalone, but come on, you need to start at the beginning with our fierce Duke of Kielder!!
HUGE thank you to the author for an advance copy. All my gushing is clearly given freely and willingly 😉
Ok enough gushing… just kidding, there is more. I don’t wanna give any sort of spoilers, but this book has soooo many beloved characters from Sarah’s incredible world she has created, and it just literally felt like coming home. I wanted to just soak it all in, and never let it end. I was so sad when it came to an end, and I knew I had to wait to get a piece of this beautiful world again.
Our sweet Daria and Toss are our leading characters, and I loved them. They are so perfect for each other, and the love and support they show one another through their horrible challenges is sooo good. Their love is sweet, gradual and #goals!
This is the official 2nd book in the Huntresses series, but don’t forget Ellie and Artemis’s stories, so I count it as the 4th. It can be read as a standalone, but come on, you need to start at the beginning with our fierce Duke of Kielder!!
HUGE thank you to the author for an advance copy. All my gushing is clearly given freely and willingly 😉
July 5, 2024
"I would cross every county in this kingdom to spend even one fleeting moment with you..."
Toss is a charmer and Daria deserves every bit of charm he dishes out!
This book will tug at your heart strings with the overall extreme disregard and unkindness from these main character's family members. This is a book that proves the saying about family is who you choose. The Huntresses and their gentlemen friends are always a great example of standing up for and being a safe place to land for these friends no matter what.
This is a slow burn romance, friends-to-more romance and is super sweet. This author kept me wanting more and more to happen between these characters and when it does, it is oh so darling!
I'm always a fan where the Duke of Kielder shows up and represents, as well as Mater and every character readers have come to love through the Jonquil/Lancaster series! The cameos in this were everything!!!
If you like historical romances filled with longings for hope and relief, sweet romance, the best kind of friendships with a them of being brave and trusting in yourself you should absolutely read this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: extremely rude family characters, amazing friendships, friends to more, romance-kisses only
Toss is a charmer and Daria deserves every bit of charm he dishes out!
This book will tug at your heart strings with the overall extreme disregard and unkindness from these main character's family members. This is a book that proves the saying about family is who you choose. The Huntresses and their gentlemen friends are always a great example of standing up for and being a safe place to land for these friends no matter what.
This is a slow burn romance, friends-to-more romance and is super sweet. This author kept me wanting more and more to happen between these characters and when it does, it is oh so darling!
I'm always a fan where the Duke of Kielder shows up and represents, as well as Mater and every character readers have come to love through the Jonquil/Lancaster series! The cameos in this were everything!!!
If you like historical romances filled with longings for hope and relief, sweet romance, the best kind of friendships with a them of being brave and trusting in yourself you should absolutely read this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: extremely rude family characters, amazing friendships, friends to more, romance-kisses only
July 7, 2024
This one was just okay for me. I feel like the characters we’ve known a long time are sort of one dimensional at this point. There are a lot of references to them and whatever their dominant character trait is and it gets pretty tiresome. The main characters were okay, but again they just don’t seem that dynamic. Every time the story cuts to Daria, for example, she mentions how she’s not very smart. I understand that her perception of herself as stupid is one of her main obstacles to overcome, but it was just restated so many times. Anyway, it was an okay book. It fell flat for me much like Charming Artemis did. I like so many of Sarah Eden’s earlier books better.
February 24, 2025
I loved this book! Every time I read one of Sarah’s books, it becomes my new favorite! I loved learning more about Daria, and I loved that there were so many characters from other books on this one. This book made me laugh and cry and I can’t wait to read it again! It did leave me with a few questions, but I have a feeling they will be answered in the next book or two in this series.
August 20, 2026
Daria Mullins knows she's a disappointment to her parents. About to enter her fourth season, she's not too bright and not marriageable but she longs for London where she can see her special friends, "The Huntresses" who always make her feel welcome and appreciated. If she stays in the country as her parents plan, Daria may not see her friends again for a long, long time. Scheming with her brother Tobias, the siblings manage to convince their parents that Daria has to come to London to make introductions for her brother with the august members of the ton attached to her particular friend, Artemis (Lancaster) Jonquil. The Mullins parents agree Daria can come to London but once her brother is established, that's it for her. Daria is determined to make this Season last as long as possible. Toss Comstock was looking forward to finishing his education at Cambridge and continuing his musical education with a goal of entering the Royal Society one day. All his dreams are snatched away when his older brother refuses to provide the funds for Cambridge. Laurence allows Toss ONE carefree bachelor season to do what he wants -within reason. Unfortunately for Toss "within reason" means NO MUSIC! Toss chafes at the restrictions placed on him and turns to his friends for help. While visiting Charlie Jonquil, he becomes reacquainted with Miss Mullins, a young lady he has been thinking a lot about since the house party last year. When he discovers Daria is also being controlled by her parents, they enter into a friendly wager. Every act of defiance earns them a point and the one who has the most points at the end will be declared the winner. The loser will have to find a music patron for Toss if he wins or plan a house party for ALL The Huntresses and the unnamed group of young gentlemen friends. One last hurrah before Daria and Toss have to submit to someone else's wishes. As the Season progresses, the friends become closer until Toss has a difficult decision to make and Daria must learn to stand up for herself and her friends.
Meh. This plot has been done a bunch of time before. We already went through Charlie being forced to drop out of school and lose the profession he dreamed of. We already read about Linus and his musical ability, playing for the one he loves. There are countless horrible parents and siblings in this world. (Although none quite so RUDE as Daria's father). The story went on too long and I got bored in spite of the sweet swoony romance.
I like Daria. She has a learning difference of some kind, making reading out loud difficult. She's not a quick thinker or a witty conversationalist but some of that is in her head. Her father is constantly putting her down. She claims he's teasing but his remarks are incredibly unkind and most certainly show his low opinion of his daughter and not actually teasing. Daria has low self-esteem because of her parents' bullying and dismissal. She finds comfort and family in her friend group. Artemis seems to have attracted friends who are broken with horrible parents. She teaches Daria how to stand up for herself and those she cares about. Daria is very sweet. She loves her brother Tobias and they have a close relationship. Tobias loves his sister and tries to help prop her up and deal with her parents but he's still dependent on them and there's only so much he can do. He's charming, witty and a good brother. Daria wants to help him find his way in Society and get her London Season so it's a win-win situation.
Mr. and Mrs. Mullins are neglectful parents. They're selfish and cruel. They lavish a little more attention to Tobias but it seems like he's a means to an end for them. They're social climbing and his new friends will enhance their social status and that's all they care about. I wasn't terribly surprised by the bombshell at the end. I figured something like that was going on. There were clues. I'm guessing Mr. Mullins is insanely rude! I gasped and thought "Oh no he didn't!" at one point towards the end.
Toss is a sweetheart. Here's another hero who sees the heroine. He's patient, kind and supportive. Toss helps Daria when she is doubting her own abilities and he never judges her or makes her feel less than. She supports him too and enjoys his music. Toss is truly passionate about music. It's in his soul. He feels it and Daria does too. Toss loves everything about music - not just playing, but composing too. He's been composing since Eton which sounds impressive. Daria supports Toss even when they're supposed to be rivals. She doesn't want him to lose but she doesn't want to lose either. Toss's character remains rather flat throughout the novel. He's a good person, I see that. He doesn't grow or change, just realize he's in love. Daria, on the other hand, gains in confidence and grows as a result of her friendships and Toss's love. I really liked her a lot more at the end of the novel. In the beginning I thought she was lovely and sweet but timid and wasn't sure I wanted to read a whole book about her. Artemis has taught her Huntresses well and they make Daria feel like a better version of herself. I think they just bring out the best in her while her parents are constantly making her feel less than adequate.
Is Toss's family new money? We never learn their status but Laurence sure sounds like he's new money trying to rub elbows with the upper ten thousand. He keeps going on about manners, opulence, not embarrassing him/the family as if their name is on shaky grounds and Laurence needs to be good ton. He never will be. Laurence is rude too but more in a gauche way than Daria's father. Everyone should know by now that the Duke of Kielder only admits people he likes and wants to associate with and if he doesn't want to associate with you, he'll have you tossed out on your ear without even seeing you himself.
I do love Adam now. His character growth is excellent. He's still grumpy and eager to duel but he's been softened by Persephone. Persephone is so very loving and sweet. Adam is a doting dad. Little Lord Falstone is adorable. Oliver can already delivery a scathing retort at six years old. He was kind of rude to do that to an adult but given the adult deserved it and he's only 6, it was cute. Look cuter Oliver and Mama will forgive you! Sweet little Lady Hestia loves music and for that, the infamous Duke of Kielder will put up with Toss. Hestia, now 3, is shy and doesn't like to speak in front of strange adults. She apparently talks to her parents and her big brother. I wondered if she didn't talk because she couldn't hear but it seems she can, she's just shy. She seems to take after Daphne in that way. (Daphne is still quiet. She warrants a mention under her married title and I had forgotten who Lord and Lady Techney were, she's so quiet.)
Artemis is, of course, anything but quiet. She's still flamboyant but it's no longer a sham. Her heart is happy and she's healing from her childhood trauma thanks to Charlie and his family. Charlie is funny. The young couple are very much in love but it's still new and he hasn't quite figured out that other people might be falling in love and want a moment alone. He's obtuse. Chalk it up to not remembering much about his father and being away most of the time his brothers were making fools of themselves. Charlie is more lighthearted too and not afraid to be silly. He seems to have inherited Lucas's ADHD. Mater says he has much of his father and Uncle Stanley in him. I can see Lucas. I didn't get the impression Stanley Cummings was goofy though.
Rose, Artie's maid, is an honorary big sister/aunt to the Huntresses. I feel like I'm missing out on something. Her full backstory hasn't been revealed. All we know is she's from India and experiences racism a lot. She's on hand to deliver messages and add her own wise counsel, in addition to designing dresses. The other Huntresses don't get a lot of page time. Gillian has to leave London soon after arriving and Lisette is stuck in France. The O'Doyle sisters are hiding something and I am sure I know what it is. I infer they want to make sure Daria knows she's loved and supported and doesn't want to add anything else negative to Daria's worries.
Charlie's friends are an interesting lot. I didn't think I'd like Duke. I figured out who he was before it was revealed. It's not specifically spelled out but I guessed based on what was there. His name is an obvious clue. He wasn't what I expected. I unfairly judged him based on his surname. He's the quiet one. Duke is brilliant, thoughtful and would do anything to help a friend. Another new friend for the group is Colm. I won't reveal his surname but he's a connection to other characters as well. I was actually kind of surprised because like Duke, he's nothing like I expected. He's kind and takes an interest in Daria. Being a military man, Colm knows what he wants and goes after it, not in a creepy way, he's just decisive. He's gracious and never acts like "a dog in the manger" (jealous and competitive). Even Toss isn't immune to the green-eyed monster. Personally, I'd choose Colm but I'm not Daria. She needs Toss and not Colm.
The previous characters are mostly all here. I was super excited! Mater (Julia Jonquil) gets to show how wise she is and her hopeless romantic nature. She's very kind as always and one of the only characters who ever sees what's going on, really sees the characters. I think Mater is working behind the scenes to help all the younger generation connected with her family. She has an enormous amount of love to give and is always willing to help shelter, nurture and love whoever needs it.
The Gents are in London and assisting Lucas's boys and their friends! EEEE!!! I wanted MORE! Like what happened to them all since Lucas died? I need to know about Kes's lady specifically. Henri and Digby have the largest roles in this story. Henri and his lady are still very much in love even though they're in their 60s. They suffered and they lived on pennies and now they want to pay it forward and help other young couples in need of guidance and support. Henri is really the only one we get to see what happened to after 1780s. He's an accomplished poet, still seems like a Bishop but learned how to be lighthearted and silly from Lucas. Lucas and Stanley are long gone but never, ever forgotten. I wanted more of his wife. She intrigued me and she didn't get enough page time in her own story let alone now. Aldric shares a brief summary and I am DYING to read Love in a Mist but the library doesn't have the e-book yet. Pfft. He hints but doesn't spoiler. I know who he married so I know the suffering he alludes to but I need to read it. Dear Digby has lost his wife and we don't even know who she was! That doesn't stop him from being... himself. He's lighthearted and a loyal friend. Digby really helps out a lot. Fennel "Poppy" Kendrick has a cameo here too. He's glad he's the only son but he does have a bossy big sister! I can see conflicts happening when he's older.
I need a break from this series I guess. I have one more available but I'll wait and see if I like it better once my memory of the same plot over and over starts to fade.
Meh. This plot has been done a bunch of time before. We already went through Charlie being forced to drop out of school and lose the profession he dreamed of. We already read about Linus and his musical ability, playing for the one he loves. There are countless horrible parents and siblings in this world. (Although none quite so RUDE as Daria's father). The story went on too long and I got bored in spite of the sweet swoony romance.
I like Daria. She has a learning difference of some kind, making reading out loud difficult. She's not a quick thinker or a witty conversationalist but some of that is in her head. Her father is constantly putting her down. She claims he's teasing but his remarks are incredibly unkind and most certainly show his low opinion of his daughter and not actually teasing. Daria has low self-esteem because of her parents' bullying and dismissal. She finds comfort and family in her friend group. Artemis seems to have attracted friends who are broken with horrible parents. She teaches Daria how to stand up for herself and those she cares about. Daria is very sweet. She loves her brother Tobias and they have a close relationship. Tobias loves his sister and tries to help prop her up and deal with her parents but he's still dependent on them and there's only so much he can do. He's charming, witty and a good brother. Daria wants to help him find his way in Society and get her London Season so it's a win-win situation.
Mr. and Mrs. Mullins are neglectful parents. They're selfish and cruel. They lavish a little more attention to Tobias but it seems like he's a means to an end for them. They're social climbing and his new friends will enhance their social status and that's all they care about. I wasn't terribly surprised by the bombshell at the end. I figured something like that was going on. There were clues. I'm guessing Mr. Mullins is insanely rude! I gasped and thought "Oh no he didn't!" at one point towards the end.
Toss is a sweetheart. Here's another hero who sees the heroine. He's patient, kind and supportive. Toss helps Daria when she is doubting her own abilities and he never judges her or makes her feel less than. She supports him too and enjoys his music. Toss is truly passionate about music. It's in his soul. He feels it and Daria does too. Toss loves everything about music - not just playing, but composing too. He's been composing since Eton which sounds impressive. Daria supports Toss even when they're supposed to be rivals. She doesn't want him to lose but she doesn't want to lose either. Toss's character remains rather flat throughout the novel. He's a good person, I see that. He doesn't grow or change, just realize he's in love. Daria, on the other hand, gains in confidence and grows as a result of her friendships and Toss's love. I really liked her a lot more at the end of the novel. In the beginning I thought she was lovely and sweet but timid and wasn't sure I wanted to read a whole book about her. Artemis has taught her Huntresses well and they make Daria feel like a better version of herself. I think they just bring out the best in her while her parents are constantly making her feel less than adequate.
Is Toss's family new money? We never learn their status but Laurence sure sounds like he's new money trying to rub elbows with the upper ten thousand. He keeps going on about manners, opulence, not embarrassing him/the family as if their name is on shaky grounds and Laurence needs to be good ton. He never will be. Laurence is rude too but more in a gauche way than Daria's father. Everyone should know by now that the Duke of Kielder only admits people he likes and wants to associate with and if he doesn't want to associate with you, he'll have you tossed out on your ear without even seeing you himself.
I do love Adam now. His character growth is excellent. He's still grumpy and eager to duel but he's been softened by Persephone. Persephone is so very loving and sweet. Adam is a doting dad. Little Lord Falstone is adorable. Oliver can already delivery a scathing retort at six years old. He was kind of rude to do that to an adult but given the adult deserved it and he's only 6, it was cute. Look cuter Oliver and Mama will forgive you! Sweet little Lady Hestia loves music and for that, the infamous Duke of Kielder will put up with Toss. Hestia, now 3, is shy and doesn't like to speak in front of strange adults. She apparently talks to her parents and her big brother. I wondered if she didn't talk because she couldn't hear but it seems she can, she's just shy. She seems to take after Daphne in that way. (Daphne is still quiet. She warrants a mention under her married title and I had forgotten who Lord and Lady Techney were, she's so quiet.)
Artemis is, of course, anything but quiet. She's still flamboyant but it's no longer a sham. Her heart is happy and she's healing from her childhood trauma thanks to Charlie and his family. Charlie is funny. The young couple are very much in love but it's still new and he hasn't quite figured out that other people might be falling in love and want a moment alone. He's obtuse. Chalk it up to not remembering much about his father and being away most of the time his brothers were making fools of themselves. Charlie is more lighthearted too and not afraid to be silly. He seems to have inherited Lucas's ADHD. Mater says he has much of his father and Uncle Stanley in him. I can see Lucas. I didn't get the impression Stanley Cummings was goofy though.
Rose, Artie's maid, is an honorary big sister/aunt to the Huntresses. I feel like I'm missing out on something. Her full backstory hasn't been revealed. All we know is she's from India and experiences racism a lot. She's on hand to deliver messages and add her own wise counsel, in addition to designing dresses. The other Huntresses don't get a lot of page time. Gillian has to leave London soon after arriving and Lisette is stuck in France. The O'Doyle sisters are hiding something and I am sure I know what it is. I infer they want to make sure Daria knows she's loved and supported and doesn't want to add anything else negative to Daria's worries.
Charlie's friends are an interesting lot. I didn't think I'd like Duke. I figured out who he was before it was revealed. It's not specifically spelled out but I guessed based on what was there. His name is an obvious clue. He wasn't what I expected. I unfairly judged him based on his surname. He's the quiet one. Duke is brilliant, thoughtful and would do anything to help a friend. Another new friend for the group is Colm. I won't reveal his surname but he's a connection to other characters as well. I was actually kind of surprised because like Duke, he's nothing like I expected. He's kind and takes an interest in Daria. Being a military man, Colm knows what he wants and goes after it, not in a creepy way, he's just decisive. He's gracious and never acts like "a dog in the manger" (jealous and competitive). Even Toss isn't immune to the green-eyed monster. Personally, I'd choose Colm but I'm not Daria. She needs Toss and not Colm.
The previous characters are mostly all here. I was super excited! Mater (Julia Jonquil) gets to show how wise she is and her hopeless romantic nature. She's very kind as always and one of the only characters who ever sees what's going on, really sees the characters. I think Mater is working behind the scenes to help all the younger generation connected with her family. She has an enormous amount of love to give and is always willing to help shelter, nurture and love whoever needs it.
The Gents are in London and assisting Lucas's boys and their friends! EEEE!!! I wanted MORE! Like what happened to them all since Lucas died? I need to know about Kes's lady specifically. Henri and Digby have the largest roles in this story. Henri and his lady are still very much in love even though they're in their 60s. They suffered and they lived on pennies and now they want to pay it forward and help other young couples in need of guidance and support. Henri is really the only one we get to see what happened to after 1780s. He's an accomplished poet, still seems like a Bishop but learned how to be lighthearted and silly from Lucas. Lucas and Stanley are long gone but never, ever forgotten. I wanted more of his wife. She intrigued me and she didn't get enough page time in her own story let alone now. Aldric shares a brief summary and I am DYING to read Love in a Mist but the library doesn't have the e-book yet. Pfft. He hints but doesn't spoiler. I know who he married so I know the suffering he alludes to but I need to read it. Dear Digby has lost his wife and we don't even know who she was! That doesn't stop him from being... himself. He's lighthearted and a loyal friend. Digby really helps out a lot. Fennel "Poppy" Kendrick has a cameo here too. He's glad he's the only son but he does have a bossy big sister! I can see conflicts happening when he's older.
I need a break from this series I guess. I have one more available but I'll wait and see if I like it better once my memory of the same plot over and over starts to fade.
April 30, 2024
Review to come
April 16, 2024
I like Daria and Toss (although I dislike that nickname), but the story dragged a bit for me and the ending felt somewhat unrealistic.
April 20, 2024
This was more like 3.5 stars as there were some places that dragged a bit but overall I really enjoyed this book. Daria’s character was so heartbreakingly broken. I can’t even imagine what it would have been like to be raised by such terrible parents. I love that she found the Huntresses. I LOVE the Huntresses. I know what it is like to be around friends that love you and will do anything for you. Ones that know your weaknesses and still like you and do all they can to prevent you being hurt. This series has been great because of its portrayal of such friendships. I liked Toss too so that made for a really good read.
May 17, 2024
These books are fine. Sweet, but repetitive.
March 27, 2024
For clean and wholesome Regency Era romances Sarah M. Eden is a name I can trust. This book is part of the Huntresses series who are a group of friends of Artemis Lancaster. Eden has multiple series that are set in the same historical fiction world. So it isn’t surprising to see familiar family names from her other books. If you recognize the connections great, but the books can be read on their own.
In this story the main characters, Daria Mullins and Toss Comstock, are both being overlooked and controlled by their families. Daria’s parents want her to give up on London after three unsuccessful seasons. It is only by her brother saying she has connections through her Huntress friends and that will improve his chances to be successful that they allow her one more season. They are determined to retire her to the country to live with an aunt. Toss is a second son and has been told by his older brother that his education will no longer be funded. His prospects look dim to continue with his interest in music. There is a very fun competition between the two that allows them to often be in each other's company.
There is longing and tenderness between two characters that live at the whims of family members. And it is lovely to see their friend group rally to help them. Very enjoyable.
In this story the main characters, Daria Mullins and Toss Comstock, are both being overlooked and controlled by their families. Daria’s parents want her to give up on London after three unsuccessful seasons. It is only by her brother saying she has connections through her Huntress friends and that will improve his chances to be successful that they allow her one more season. They are determined to retire her to the country to live with an aunt. Toss is a second son and has been told by his older brother that his education will no longer be funded. His prospects look dim to continue with his interest in music. There is a very fun competition between the two that allows them to often be in each other's company.
There is longing and tenderness between two characters that live at the whims of family members. And it is lovely to see their friend group rally to help them. Very enjoyable.
April 1, 2024
What a book, y'all.
I have been loving the Huntresses series and The Best of Friends is no exception. It has everything I've come to love from Sarah's books - a swoony hero, a courageous leading lady, the sweetest romance, adventures galore, humor, banter, folks that deserve a good swift kick to the shins, appearances from all the characters of previous books that you just can't help but love....seriously, what is there not to love here?
Toss and Daria are one of the sweetest couples ever. I loved that they brought out the best in each other and gave each other the courage they needed to follow their dreams and claim the future that they wanted. Their romance deserves all the heart eyes 😍
If this book isn't on your TBR lists already, it needs to be. Trust me friends, you're going to want to read this asap.
Thanks to the publisher and author for the early copy; all thoughts are my own 🙂
I have been loving the Huntresses series and The Best of Friends is no exception. It has everything I've come to love from Sarah's books - a swoony hero, a courageous leading lady, the sweetest romance, adventures galore, humor, banter, folks that deserve a good swift kick to the shins, appearances from all the characters of previous books that you just can't help but love....seriously, what is there not to love here?
Toss and Daria are one of the sweetest couples ever. I loved that they brought out the best in each other and gave each other the courage they needed to follow their dreams and claim the future that they wanted. Their romance deserves all the heart eyes 😍
If this book isn't on your TBR lists already, it needs to be. Trust me friends, you're going to want to read this asap.
Thanks to the publisher and author for the early copy; all thoughts are my own 🙂
March 15, 2024
Squeal, giddy school girl laugh, happy dance, ALL the good things you feel and do when you finish a phenomenal book. A delightful treat for new and old Sarah M. Eden fans, you won’t be disappointed by Toss and Daria’s charming story. You are introduced to new characters and get to catch up with much-loved characters from past stories.
Each Sarah M. Eden book is so wonderfully unique and yet they weave together so beautifully with heartwarming themes and lessons. When you take that and add in the endearing characters in every single story you get truly special books and series that come to mean so much to each reader.
Both Toss and Daria have beautifully contagious optimism despite their unpleasant circumstances in life. Their friends to lovers romance was perfect in every way. Normally this isn’t my favorite trope, but this was done so well that I enjoyed every part of this story from start to finish. The way they support each other and help build confidence is simply terrific and admirable. They individually are strong and resilient through good and bad, and together they are unstoppable, especially with their incredible support system of friends and family.
I absolutely loved this book so much, I didn’t want to put it down and lost way too much sleep over it, but am I sorry? Not at all. Please do yourself the joyous favor of reading this book, it’s the ideal historical romance.
I received an ARC from the author. A positive review was not required but happily given. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Each Sarah M. Eden book is so wonderfully unique and yet they weave together so beautifully with heartwarming themes and lessons. When you take that and add in the endearing characters in every single story you get truly special books and series that come to mean so much to each reader.
Both Toss and Daria have beautifully contagious optimism despite their unpleasant circumstances in life. Their friends to lovers romance was perfect in every way. Normally this isn’t my favorite trope, but this was done so well that I enjoyed every part of this story from start to finish. The way they support each other and help build confidence is simply terrific and admirable. They individually are strong and resilient through good and bad, and together they are unstoppable, especially with their incredible support system of friends and family.
I absolutely loved this book so much, I didn’t want to put it down and lost way too much sleep over it, but am I sorry? Not at all. Please do yourself the joyous favor of reading this book, it’s the ideal historical romance.
I received an ARC from the author. A positive review was not required but happily given. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2025
This is charming. Took longer to get into, but Daria and Toss are just so cute. I also appreciate how the book shows how toxic or helpful the influences around us can be, and how those can translate to actual believed thought patterns. The way these thoughts were written felt a little one-dimensional, but I appreciated it all the same because I needed something light.
December 15, 2024
I adore the characters in this series and the other two series that this one is connected to, The Jonquil Brothers, and The Lancaster Family. I've yet to read The Gents series, but that one will probably be next. I especially enjoy the way Mater is featured in these books and the way she helps others.
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March 27, 2024
It is such a special thing to find a fictional world that feels so familiar and comforting, and Sarah M. Eden’s regency universe (I’ve started referring to it as the Jonquil-verse in my head) is definitely one of those for me. I cracked open my arc of this second installment in the Huntress series and it immediately felt like coming home. I absolutely adored this book!
From the moment we met Daria, she has had a special place in my heart, and finally getting to read her story only made me love her more. Her lack of confidence and tendency to overthink every social interaction is something I felt on a deeply personal level, and I loved seeing her come into her own with the love and support of her friends.
And Toss! Wow I love him! Such. Sweet soul that had to learn how to fight for himself as well. I thought he and Daria worked so well together, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning!
I had the funnest time reading this book that I have had in a long, long time, and a lot of that is because of how many old friends we got to see in this new story. We get to see characters we’ve known and loved for years, which made my heart so happy! Every time one of my favorite characters appeared, I was grinning and giggling and kicking my feet with giddiness!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Sarah is an absolute master at her craft, and this world that she has created is so rich and wonderful and I truly wish I could live there with these characters that mean so, so much to me!
Whether you’re a long-time Sarah M Eden fan or if you’re brand new to her stories, I think this is an excellent story and I cannot recommend it enough!
From the moment we met Daria, she has had a special place in my heart, and finally getting to read her story only made me love her more. Her lack of confidence and tendency to overthink every social interaction is something I felt on a deeply personal level, and I loved seeing her come into her own with the love and support of her friends.
And Toss! Wow I love him! Such. Sweet soul that had to learn how to fight for himself as well. I thought he and Daria worked so well together, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning!
I had the funnest time reading this book that I have had in a long, long time, and a lot of that is because of how many old friends we got to see in this new story. We get to see characters we’ve known and loved for years, which made my heart so happy! Every time one of my favorite characters appeared, I was grinning and giggling and kicking my feet with giddiness!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Sarah is an absolute master at her craft, and this world that she has created is so rich and wonderful and I truly wish I could live there with these characters that mean so, so much to me!
Whether you’re a long-time Sarah M Eden fan or if you’re brand new to her stories, I think this is an excellent story and I cannot recommend it enough!
April 30, 2024
Dear Lady Eden,
It is perhaps a cliché, but please allow me to tell you how ardently I love and admire your work. My soul didn’t know how much I needed this book. This book is truly marvelous, a beacon for all swoony friendship romances. I found myself captivated from the very first page, and wished to read faster, while simultaneously aching for the book to lengthen. It is stunning writing, a beautiful story, and delicious romance, and I loved every moment of it.
The friendship between Daria and Toss was delightful. I greatly enjoyed their ability to converse honestly with one another, and their genuine desire to make each other’s experience for the season a better one.
The premise was so much fun! I was grateful that there wasn’t anything scandalous in nature, but merely small actions to assert independence. Their point system was quite clever—and then to involve so many beloved characters from other books! My heart could hardly stand the joy at seeing the Gents and Mater so frequently. And including the Huntresses and Rose, as well as Charlie’s group of friends, was the icing on the cake. But then the Great Duke of Kielder made an appearance, and I could barely contain my excitement! I adored seeing so many well-loved friends from previous books. It was a joyful, delightful experience!
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how deeply I enjoyed the romantic tension between Toss and Daria. And the kissing! Oh my swoon, you could knock me over with a feather! I’m so grateful for Mater’s foresight, and Toss’s bravery. And to you, lovely author, for writing such fabulous romance!
Oh! Oh! And I absolutely love having a musician protagonist! I don’t think I’ve really seen that before in a Regency, especially a male protagonist. Being a musician myself, I adored seeing one in your book!
I could truly go on and on about my love for this book. It was a joy to read, and will be included in my rereads list of your books I adore most. It is wonderful.
Ever Yours,
Jessica
***
Thanks to the publisher for the e-copy. All thoughts are my own.
It is perhaps a cliché, but please allow me to tell you how ardently I love and admire your work. My soul didn’t know how much I needed this book. This book is truly marvelous, a beacon for all swoony friendship romances. I found myself captivated from the very first page, and wished to read faster, while simultaneously aching for the book to lengthen. It is stunning writing, a beautiful story, and delicious romance, and I loved every moment of it.
The friendship between Daria and Toss was delightful. I greatly enjoyed their ability to converse honestly with one another, and their genuine desire to make each other’s experience for the season a better one.
The premise was so much fun! I was grateful that there wasn’t anything scandalous in nature, but merely small actions to assert independence. Their point system was quite clever—and then to involve so many beloved characters from other books! My heart could hardly stand the joy at seeing the Gents and Mater so frequently. And including the Huntresses and Rose, as well as Charlie’s group of friends, was the icing on the cake. But then the Great Duke of Kielder made an appearance, and I could barely contain my excitement! I adored seeing so many well-loved friends from previous books. It was a joyful, delightful experience!
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how deeply I enjoyed the romantic tension between Toss and Daria. And the kissing! Oh my swoon, you could knock me over with a feather! I’m so grateful for Mater’s foresight, and Toss’s bravery. And to you, lovely author, for writing such fabulous romance!
Oh! Oh! And I absolutely love having a musician protagonist! I don’t think I’ve really seen that before in a Regency, especially a male protagonist. Being a musician myself, I adored seeing one in your book!
I could truly go on and on about my love for this book. It was a joy to read, and will be included in my rereads list of your books I adore most. It is wonderful.
Ever Yours,
Jessica
***
Thanks to the publisher for the e-copy. All thoughts are my own.
June 30, 2024
I loved this book so much!!
Daria is so sweet. I loved how Toss sees her and builds her up. She is such a sweet friend and I loved getting to know her and understand her background. I can't believe how horrible her parents are to her!! So glad she has her brother Tobias and the Huntresses to show her how special and talented she is.
Toss is a delight to get to know. Loved his talent and love of music. Seeing his composition process was a treat. Loved how Daria inspires him and how he is willing to do anything for her.
My favorite part of this book is all the cameo appearances from favorite characters in other books -- The Duke of Kielder and his family, Mater, all the Gents, Artemis and Charlie, and all the Huntresses. I love that all these stories are connected and intertwined. Seeing Henri and Mater and Mr Layton and Charlie and Artemis and the Duke and Persephone interact with Daria and Toss was so much fun.
Love this beautiful story and how love conquers all. Their love is so sweet and I love their happily ever after.
Daria is so sweet. I loved how Toss sees her and builds her up. She is such a sweet friend and I loved getting to know her and understand her background. I can't believe how horrible her parents are to her!! So glad she has her brother Tobias and the Huntresses to show her how special and talented she is.
Toss is a delight to get to know. Loved his talent and love of music. Seeing his composition process was a treat. Loved how Daria inspires him and how he is willing to do anything for her.
My favorite part of this book is all the cameo appearances from favorite characters in other books -- The Duke of Kielder and his family, Mater, all the Gents, Artemis and Charlie, and all the Huntresses. I love that all these stories are connected and intertwined. Seeing Henri and Mater and Mr Layton and Charlie and Artemis and the Duke and Persephone interact with Daria and Toss was so much fun.
Love this beautiful story and how love conquers all. Their love is so sweet and I love their happily ever after.
May 2, 2024
Daria Mullins and Toss Comstock find themselves entangled in a delightful little competition during what looks to be their last true London Season.
Determined to defy familial expectations, they embark on a friendly contest to see who could indulge in the most activities their families would disapprove of! As they navigate the highs and lows of their escapades, they discover that love may be the greatest prize of all.
Eden delivers a delightful story filled with wit, romance, and the joy of forging one’s own path amidst societal expectations.
Determined to defy familial expectations, they embark on a friendly contest to see who could indulge in the most activities their families would disapprove of! As they navigate the highs and lows of their escapades, they discover that love may be the greatest prize of all.
Eden delivers a delightful story filled with wit, romance, and the joy of forging one’s own path amidst societal expectations.
Read
February 17, 2026I began reading Sarah M. Eden's books for the romance, but I keep coming back for the charm and return of beloved characters.
June 4, 2024
I'm loving the Huntresses and seeing the earlier characters again. Makes my heart happy.
April 24, 2024
“That is a lovely thing, don’t you think? To have friends who make you feel like a better version of yourself?”
* It’s so interesting to see the difference in how Daria sees herself in her POV and how Toss sees her in his
* I love that we get to continue seeing so many of the characters we already know and love!
* Daria and Toss 😍
Sarah M Eden can do no wrong! And I just so love entering back into this world and getting more of the characters I’ve grown to love.
Daria is so unexpectedly funny! She’s such a sweetheart and I love her! And only the slightest bit of spoiler but I was SO PROUD of Daria for her standing up to Laurence! You go, girl!
Toss is so sweet and caring. He’s, of course, a member of The Pack and a bit of a troublemaker. But of the best sort. And I love how tender he is with Daria. Plus his love of music? Ugh.
Something I just love about this series, as well as The Gents books, is the theme of friendship. How good friends are so important and needed to lift one another up! Such an important message.
In conclusion, love love love. 💜
* It’s so interesting to see the difference in how Daria sees herself in her POV and how Toss sees her in his
* I love that we get to continue seeing so many of the characters we already know and love!
* Daria and Toss 😍
Sarah M Eden can do no wrong! And I just so love entering back into this world and getting more of the characters I’ve grown to love.
Daria is so unexpectedly funny! She’s such a sweetheart and I love her! And only the slightest bit of spoiler but I was SO PROUD of Daria for her standing up to Laurence! You go, girl!
Toss is so sweet and caring. He’s, of course, a member of The Pack and a bit of a troublemaker. But of the best sort. And I love how tender he is with Daria. Plus his love of music? Ugh.
Something I just love about this series, as well as The Gents books, is the theme of friendship. How good friends are so important and needed to lift one another up! Such an important message.
In conclusion, love love love. 💜
March 31, 2025
One of the things I loved most about this book was the inclusion of the Gents (and our Julia!), the Duke and Duchess of Kielder, and a cameo from a few of the Jonquil brothers. If you've read the Jonquil Brothers, Lancaster series, and the Gent series, you'll love that these characters are intertwined and heavily featured too!
The story of Toss and Daria truly did stem from them being friends first, which I thought was so sweet. The overarching message of care and support for each other under tough circumstances (asking among all the friends) was very heart-warming. Cannot wait to read Eve's story SOON!
The story of Toss and Daria truly did stem from them being friends first, which I thought was so sweet. The overarching message of care and support for each other under tough circumstances (asking among all the friends) was very heart-warming. Cannot wait to read Eve's story SOON!
November 2, 2024
Again, slightly disappointed with this one. 1/4 of the way in I was already so tired of hearing how dumb Daria thought herself - and how stupid her parents thought she was, I almost stopped reading. It gets so old. She is a weak character and Toss falling in love with her does not feel natural or believable. The most interesting part was the two pages near the end when the Duke of Kielder gets involved and gives her parents the punishment they deserve! There was simply way too much repetitive complaining.
January 11, 2025
Once again you are just pleasantly enjoying a Sarah M Eden story and then in steps Adam to steal the show! Every scene where Adam is present is my favorite scene! 😂 The book is the story of Daria who is used by her parents and Toss who wants to study music but is brother thinks that is a dumb idea. They met at a different house party which I think takes place in Book 1. This takes place the following season in London.
April 6, 2024
A good addition to the Huntress books
There is a lot about this book that I liked, though I will say it has a very similar feel and story to many other of Eden’s books. I had a hard time with Daria because she didn’t quite feel realistic but I did like Toss a bit more and as the story progressed I can say I enjoyed it more than other books I have read recently. I definitely liked it a lot more than the last book in the Huntress series.
There is a lot about this book that I liked, though I will say it has a very similar feel and story to many other of Eden’s books. I had a hard time with Daria because she didn’t quite feel realistic but I did like Toss a bit more and as the story progressed I can say I enjoyed it more than other books I have read recently. I definitely liked it a lot more than the last book in the Huntress series.
July 30, 2024
I liked how Daria struggled with articulating her thoughts--I found that very relatable! I wasn't convinced by the rigid personalities of Laurence and Daria's parents. They felt too one-dimensional to me to be realistic. But overall a fun, sweet proper romance. It's always fun to see the connection between characters from Eden's other books!
May 26, 2024
The main character in the beginning really got on my nerves. But all of the reoccurring characters feel too much like good friends to have given up on this book. The ending was much more fun and more matched with the authors typical writing. Overall not bad.
September 23, 2025
The way both families treated Daria and Toss was just heartbreaking/infuriating! I’d like to think it was exaggerated, but sadly there are people that treat their own family members this way. It was a joy to see them both change and grow throughout the book.
April 8, 2024
Perfection
Love the whole Huntress series, but this one was exceptionally wonderful! Love the tie-ins with the previous series. Just perfect.
Love the whole Huntress series, but this one was exceptionally wonderful! Love the tie-ins with the previous series. Just perfect.
April 20, 2024
I loved it. I love the crossover between some if the author's other series. There is a lot of foreshadowing in it. I had hard time stopping while reading.
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