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The Strongs of Shadowcrest #3
Falling for the Marquess
A war hero who returns to a title. A lady making her debut into Polite Society. Two people drawn together, yet others think them better apart . . .
Second son August Holt is serving as a captain in the Peninsular Wars when he is gravely injured. August loses an eye and also bears a hideous scar running from his brow to his cheek from a saber wound. He returns home in time to speak to his older brother, the Marquess of Edgethorne, on his deathbed. Peter makes August promise to attend the Season the following spring and find a bride.
Lady Georgina Strong is ready to make her debut in Polite Society with two of her sisters and two cousins. Yet one after another changes her mind, and at the beginning of the Season, Georgie is the only one left to make her come-out. She has witnessed her twin Pippa wed for love, and Georgie decides she will settle for nothing less—even if it takes more than one Season to find true love.
When August and Georgie meet, she is not repelled by his appearance in the least, seeing him for the man he is. The new marquess finds himself attracted to the kindhearted lady, but he views her as a bright star who would be dimmed if they became involved. Instead, he hopes his lofty title and wealth will persuade one of the ton’s wallflowers to agree to marry him. He will insist on separate lives and bury himself in the country, allowing his marchioness to raise their children.
Georgie enjoys her Season and the attention of many suitors, but she constantly thinks of Lord Edgethorne, who stirs feelings within her which she is unfamiliar with. She wants not only a man who will love her—but a man who is her partner—and will help raise their children in a loving home.
Will the marquess settle for a marriage of convenience, or will he realize marriage with Georgina could see love flourish between them?
Each book in The Strongs of Shadowcrest is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order. Also you can read free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Strongs of Shadowcrest
Book #1: The Duke’s Unexpected Love
Book #2: The Perks of Loving a Viscount
Book #3: Falling for the Marquess
Book #4: The Captain and the Duchess
Book #5: Courtship at Shadowcrest (Regency Duet – includes Tempted by the Earl and The Viscount’s Heart)
Book #6: The Marquess’ Quest for Love
Book #7: The Duke’s Guide to Winning a Lady
Second son August Holt is serving as a captain in the Peninsular Wars when he is gravely injured. August loses an eye and also bears a hideous scar running from his brow to his cheek from a saber wound. He returns home in time to speak to his older brother, the Marquess of Edgethorne, on his deathbed. Peter makes August promise to attend the Season the following spring and find a bride.
Lady Georgina Strong is ready to make her debut in Polite Society with two of her sisters and two cousins. Yet one after another changes her mind, and at the beginning of the Season, Georgie is the only one left to make her come-out. She has witnessed her twin Pippa wed for love, and Georgie decides she will settle for nothing less—even if it takes more than one Season to find true love.
When August and Georgie meet, she is not repelled by his appearance in the least, seeing him for the man he is. The new marquess finds himself attracted to the kindhearted lady, but he views her as a bright star who would be dimmed if they became involved. Instead, he hopes his lofty title and wealth will persuade one of the ton’s wallflowers to agree to marry him. He will insist on separate lives and bury himself in the country, allowing his marchioness to raise their children.
Georgie enjoys her Season and the attention of many suitors, but she constantly thinks of Lord Edgethorne, who stirs feelings within her which she is unfamiliar with. She wants not only a man who will love her—but a man who is her partner—and will help raise their children in a loving home.
Will the marquess settle for a marriage of convenience, or will he realize marriage with Georgina could see love flourish between them?
Each book in The Strongs of Shadowcrest is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order. Also you can read free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Strongs of Shadowcrest
Book #1: The Duke’s Unexpected Love
Book #2: The Perks of Loving a Viscount
Book #3: Falling for the Marquess
Book #4: The Captain and the Duchess
Book #5: Courtship at Shadowcrest (Regency Duet – includes Tempted by the Earl and The Viscount’s Heart)
Book #6: The Marquess’ Quest for Love
Book #7: The Duke’s Guide to Winning a Lady
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2024
444 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Aston
146 books481 followersAward-winning and USA Today bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family.
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
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Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 14, 2024
⁀➷ 3.25 ★ ´ˎ˗
i truly am so torn when it comes to this series and my feelings about it. this is the third of the series and after reading all three books, i feel like the same formula is copied and pasted into each book. each book feels like the same storyline, just with different members of the strong family. this book was the definition of a slow burn and i kept staring at the screen wondering when something ‘swoon-worthy’ would occur (spoiler alert: it doesn’t until you’re more than halfway done with the book). while i really like the characters that alexa aston has crafted and her writing, i feel like these books in general are underwhelming and frustrating.
the pacing is off, the conflict is trivial, and there aren’t enough sprinklings of romance and yearning. so when the two main characters in this book finally give in to their feelings, more so on the mmc’s side due to stubbornness, it feels like it goes from zero to a hundred quickly and leaves me with whiplash.
i desperately want to adore this series, so i’m going to keep reading anyway.
thank you to netgalley, dragonblade publishing, and alexa aston for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
i truly am so torn when it comes to this series and my feelings about it. this is the third of the series and after reading all three books, i feel like the same formula is copied and pasted into each book. each book feels like the same storyline, just with different members of the strong family. this book was the definition of a slow burn and i kept staring at the screen wondering when something ‘swoon-worthy’ would occur (spoiler alert: it doesn’t until you’re more than halfway done with the book). while i really like the characters that alexa aston has crafted and her writing, i feel like these books in general are underwhelming and frustrating.
the pacing is off, the conflict is trivial, and there aren’t enough sprinklings of romance and yearning. so when the two main characters in this book finally give in to their feelings, more so on the mmc’s side due to stubbornness, it feels like it goes from zero to a hundred quickly and leaves me with whiplash.
i desperately want to adore this series, so i’m going to keep reading anyway.
thank you to netgalley, dragonblade publishing, and alexa aston for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
May 3, 2024
This is my 46th book by Alexa Aston. I only started reading her in early 2021 and LOVE her books. She is such a great writer and great storyteller. She isn't super steamy but just enough and her writing is so good, I don't care. :) Definitely one of my favorite authors. Book 1 and 2 were so good.
What a great story. I loved August and Georgina. August was such a great war hero and seemed so humble. Georgina's character was so loving and understanding. She didn't see someone from the outside but the inside. They were a perfect match. Had a few tears in my eyes a few times which is rare for me to cry reading a book. I just loved it this story and their story. I decided to add to favorite reads for May list especially when a book gives you all the feels..it needs to be a favorite :)
What a great story. I loved August and Georgina. August was such a great war hero and seemed so humble. Georgina's character was so loving and understanding. She didn't see someone from the outside but the inside. They were a perfect match. Had a few tears in my eyes a few times which is rare for me to cry reading a book. I just loved it this story and their story. I decided to add to favorite reads for May list especially when a book gives you all the feels..it needs to be a favorite :)
April 26, 2024
This book is a scandalous season presenting a long lost duke and his working duchess, a scarred marquess and a diamond who’s anything but demure…
A wonderful romance with very strong beauty and the beast vibes!
In a matter of weeks August loses his father, his brother, his eye and three fingers, leaving him severely disfigured and slowly slipping into darkness. He promised his dying brother he would marry and have children, but how can he condemn his future family to life with a monster, albeit a wealthy titled monster? No, he will marry, do his duty and disappear… then why is he inexplicably drawn to the dazzling angel across the park?
Lively, smart and steadfast, Georgie is unlike any other debutante. She had expected to share her first season with het sisters and cousins, but suddenly finds herself facing an endless stream of suitors on her own, but there’s only one man who can hold her attention - a marquess new to his title. If only he could see beyond his scars and morose expectations of a marriage… because she won’t settle for anything but true love.
Their relationship is a cat-and-mouse game. They both know exactly who they want - their chemistry leaps of the page - but it proves a delicious, witty and sweet challenge to make it down the aisle. He may be the army man, but she’s the strategist. I love that Georgie isn’t the possessive kind, and that she’ll do just about anything to see August happy, even when he’s being a complete numbskull.
Gossip, good intentions and strong emotions, this story is a rollercoaster, and it was just great fun! The Strong family and their search for love is quickly becoming one of my new favourite series!
A wonderful romance with very strong beauty and the beast vibes!
In a matter of weeks August loses his father, his brother, his eye and three fingers, leaving him severely disfigured and slowly slipping into darkness. He promised his dying brother he would marry and have children, but how can he condemn his future family to life with a monster, albeit a wealthy titled monster? No, he will marry, do his duty and disappear… then why is he inexplicably drawn to the dazzling angel across the park?
Lively, smart and steadfast, Georgie is unlike any other debutante. She had expected to share her first season with het sisters and cousins, but suddenly finds herself facing an endless stream of suitors on her own, but there’s only one man who can hold her attention - a marquess new to his title. If only he could see beyond his scars and morose expectations of a marriage… because she won’t settle for anything but true love.
Their relationship is a cat-and-mouse game. They both know exactly who they want - their chemistry leaps of the page - but it proves a delicious, witty and sweet challenge to make it down the aisle. He may be the army man, but she’s the strategist. I love that Georgie isn’t the possessive kind, and that she’ll do just about anything to see August happy, even when he’s being a complete numbskull.
Gossip, good intentions and strong emotions, this story is a rollercoaster, and it was just great fun! The Strong family and their search for love is quickly becoming one of my new favourite series!
May 10, 2024
I love the idea of the Strong family but this series overall continues to be underwhelming. MMC August is struggling with wounds received in the war and then losing his father and brother in quick succession. But mostly with his scars. FMC Georgina is perpetual sunshine, close with her family (and not very many others) and seemingly one of the few people who sees August as simply a man versus a scarred man. I don't normally mind a low stakes romance, but this one was too low stakes even for me. Pretty much the only thing standing between the couple is August worrying about people judging him based on his scars. And while appearance related insecurities can be a lot, I just didn't feel like his concerns were anything more than vaguely superficial. Georgina had pretty much no problems at all, except for August not falling over her from the start. I feel like Aston tried to create drama over the fact that she ended up debuting alone, but that didn't exactly strum my sympathy strings.
I plan to keep trying this series, though - I like Aston as a writer and I know this series doesn't reflect her true capabilities. For this book, though, I give it 2 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade for a complimentary copy of this book. These opinions are my own.
I plan to keep trying this series, though - I like Aston as a writer and I know this series doesn't reflect her true capabilities. For this book, though, I give it 2 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade for a complimentary copy of this book. These opinions are my own.
April 25, 2024
Captain August Holt is gravely injured whilst fighting in the Peninsular Wars, he loses an eye and also bears a hideous scar running from his brow to his cheek from a sabre wound & also loses three fingers. He returns home in time to speak to his older brother, Peter the Marquis of Edgethorne, on his deathbed. Peter makes August promise to attend the Season the following spring and find a bride. Lady Georgina Strong was to make her debut in Polite Society with two of her sisters and two cousins but for one reason or another at the beginning of the Season, Georgie is the only one left to make her come-out. When August and Georgie meet, she is not repelled by his appearance in the least, seeing him for the man he is.
The third book in this brilliant series following the Strong family & they are a strong family, supportive, loving & caring. I loved both August & especially Georgie, he can not see past his wounds so has difficulty thinking anyone else can. From their first meeting Georgie doesn’t see his scars & the rest of her family also see the hero not the scars. I loved how she defended him on several occasions. I loved their journey to a HEA as August came to realise he wasn’t a monster. Another lovely, charming, delightful romance, which I devoured in two sittings, the characters have depth & are relatable, the pace is good & the epilogue was lovely
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in this brilliant series following the Strong family & they are a strong family, supportive, loving & caring. I loved both August & especially Georgie, he can not see past his wounds so has difficulty thinking anyone else can. From their first meeting Georgie doesn’t see his scars & the rest of her family also see the hero not the scars. I loved how she defended him on several occasions. I loved their journey to a HEA as August came to realise he wasn’t a monster. Another lovely, charming, delightful romance, which I devoured in two sittings, the characters have depth & are relatable, the pace is good & the epilogue was lovely
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 26, 2024
So good
Another amazing story in this story.
A diamond of the first water who sees beyond the scars of a bitter soldier turned marquess and sees him as her person. And he sees beyond her looks which is something she wants and loves about him the most.
A scarred bitter soldier turned marquess is wanting nothing more than a marriage of convenience until he meets this beautiful diamond of the first water who sees him for who he is and she's more than just beautiful, she's intelligent and she's passionate about her family.
This book is emotional, funny, and it has tons of happiness all in one.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series
Another amazing story in this story.
A diamond of the first water who sees beyond the scars of a bitter soldier turned marquess and sees him as her person. And he sees beyond her looks which is something she wants and loves about him the most.
A scarred bitter soldier turned marquess is wanting nothing more than a marriage of convenience until he meets this beautiful diamond of the first water who sees him for who he is and she's more than just beautiful, she's intelligent and she's passionate about her family.
This book is emotional, funny, and it has tons of happiness all in one.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series
May 15, 2024
Love Heals
I love stories where one of the characters has a physical and/or mental challenge. August was in the military at a time where doctors didn't recognize PTSD. Georgina was able to see underneath his wounds and love him. A beautiful story about love and redemption.
I love stories where one of the characters has a physical and/or mental challenge. August was in the military at a time where doctors didn't recognize PTSD. Georgina was able to see underneath his wounds and love him. A beautiful story about love and redemption.
May 31, 2024
Falling for the Marquess. My fellow readers. I am entranced with the Strong family. Georgie’s search for a husband has made reading this book the most exciting read for me. Georgie meeting the Captain was even better.
I absolutely loved their second meeting. I was for sure that August would agree to dinner. The writer did a terrible job of writing the two characters together. Their story together feels so romantic and beautiful. At least for me it reads that way.
Having the positive support of family and friends helps make the love match bloom even better. The humor and light heart moments helps pass up the time in between when the characters are lost in their thoughts. I do believe though that the story is drawn out in certain parts. More so in the middle of the book. I felt that the main characters could utilize these parts more.
The story is a great read. It’s very romantic. The happy ever after is continued. I give this book two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
I absolutely loved their second meeting. I was for sure that August would agree to dinner. The writer did a terrible job of writing the two characters together. Their story together feels so romantic and beautiful. At least for me it reads that way.
Having the positive support of family and friends helps make the love match bloom even better. The humor and light heart moments helps pass up the time in between when the characters are lost in their thoughts. I do believe though that the story is drawn out in certain parts. More so in the middle of the book. I felt that the main characters could utilize these parts more.
The story is a great read. It’s very romantic. The happy ever after is continued. I give this book two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
May 5, 2024
I do so love a wounded hero and August certainly is one, having lost an eye and scarred on his face during the war. Thinking himself a monster, he feels like his life is over and my heart so ached for him, having to hear the harsh gossip about him. When he meets Georgina, she sees past his scars and sees the man he is and it doesn't take long for them to fall in love but he doesn't feel worthy of her and tries to distance himself.
I found the story a bit different because most of it takes place in ballrooms during the ton's coming out season. It's Georgina's first season and she'd like to find a man to love and marry...when she meets August, she knows he's the one but now she needs to convince him of that!!
Well written and a great addition to the Strongs of Shadowcrest series!
I found the story a bit different because most of it takes place in ballrooms during the ton's coming out season. It's Georgina's first season and she'd like to find a man to love and marry...when she meets August, she knows he's the one but now she needs to convince him of that!!
Well written and a great addition to the Strongs of Shadowcrest series!
April 22, 2024
After fighting in Spain, Captain August Holt, wounded in body and spirit, returns to London and becomes the Marquess of Edgethorne. Lady Georgina Strong has never met a stranger and introduces herself to August in a bookstore. She doesn't see his physical scars, but the man beneath. Defending him becomes part of her introduction to society. The lady is not afraid to speak her mind. August doesn't see himself the way she does and refuses to think about pursuing their relationship. But those kisses tell another story. I greatly admire Georgina standing up for August, but he is one frustrating character. Mild descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
May 28, 2024
What a great couple: Georgina and August. What a great extended family. This is only the second book I've read of Alexa Aston, but I think she writes fantastic epilogues (in addition to the great main story!) When August was in the army, a surgeon named Dr Morrow saved his life. The heart felt epilogue had to do with Dr Morrow (not to give away too many spoilers). I was happy to see that the next book features Georgia's mother.
Thank you to netgalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to netgalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
June 13, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion...
This is book 3 of the Strongs of Shadowcrest and the story of Georgie's come out; it becomes a lonely endeavour after her twin marries suddenly, her cousins eschew a formal season after finding out their father and brother's criminal actions and the loss of their dowries and funds, and her sister becomes injured. But Georgie is determined to still enjoy her season and find love for herself, and hopefully her mother, who is chaperoning her, but will also join in the Marriage Mart to seek her own happiness. But because of her mother's own past, Georgie at least is not pressured to marry, but encouraged by her family to find love.
August Holt is a second son of the Marquess of Edgethorne, and never expected more from life than a military career. That comes to an end on the battlefield when he is trapped under a fallen horse and attacked with his own saber by a sadistic French soldier. Despite his terrible, debilitating injuries, he keeps his life, thanks to the actions of his fellow soldiers, though he has a long road to recovery. Despite his brave service, he is considered no longer able to lead after losing his eye and much of his hand and encouraged to sell his commission. His losses are further compounded when he discovers in a letter from the family solicitor that his father has died and he is encouraged to return post haste to England as his beloved elder brother is gravely ill and not expected to survive for long. He arrives in time to say goodbye at his brother's bedside, and have a promise to find a bride to continue the Edgethorne line wrested from him by his brother.
August is in a deep depression over his losses and unable to reconcile himself with that changes to himself, thinking he is a scarred beast unfit for Society, but to live up to his promise to his brother, he is determined take part in the Season to find a bride willing to bear him an heir, in return for his title, and a marriage of convenience, whereupon they can live apart. A cold, sad and lonely plan.
What he does not expect is that his neighbour, and the Diamond of the Season, Georgina Strong would be so taken with him, and determined to be in in his life and fight for him to have a place and respect in Society. She is the bright sunshine to his dark brooding grump, and she sees him for the man that he is behind the injuries and scars. Despite her feelings, August repels her affections, thinking that he is too much of a burden for her and she would eventually hate him, and that his and her goals in life are in opposition, because she is looking for love and a partnership in life, whereas he is looking merely to have an heir and then live in isolation as a recluse.
Generally a good historical grumpy-sunshine, beauty and the beast themed romance. But having read Aston's Second Sons of London series, this has super strong vibes of having of deja vu in relation to that series.
3.5 stars out of 5
This is book 3 of the Strongs of Shadowcrest and the story of Georgie's come out; it becomes a lonely endeavour after her twin marries suddenly, her cousins eschew a formal season after finding out their father and brother's criminal actions and the loss of their dowries and funds, and her sister becomes injured. But Georgie is determined to still enjoy her season and find love for herself, and hopefully her mother, who is chaperoning her, but will also join in the Marriage Mart to seek her own happiness. But because of her mother's own past, Georgie at least is not pressured to marry, but encouraged by her family to find love.
August Holt is a second son of the Marquess of Edgethorne, and never expected more from life than a military career. That comes to an end on the battlefield when he is trapped under a fallen horse and attacked with his own saber by a sadistic French soldier. Despite his terrible, debilitating injuries, he keeps his life, thanks to the actions of his fellow soldiers, though he has a long road to recovery. Despite his brave service, he is considered no longer able to lead after losing his eye and much of his hand and encouraged to sell his commission. His losses are further compounded when he discovers in a letter from the family solicitor that his father has died and he is encouraged to return post haste to England as his beloved elder brother is gravely ill and not expected to survive for long. He arrives in time to say goodbye at his brother's bedside, and have a promise to find a bride to continue the Edgethorne line wrested from him by his brother.
August is in a deep depression over his losses and unable to reconcile himself with that changes to himself, thinking he is a scarred beast unfit for Society, but to live up to his promise to his brother, he is determined take part in the Season to find a bride willing to bear him an heir, in return for his title, and a marriage of convenience, whereupon they can live apart. A cold, sad and lonely plan.
What he does not expect is that his neighbour, and the Diamond of the Season, Georgina Strong would be so taken with him, and determined to be in in his life and fight for him to have a place and respect in Society. She is the bright sunshine to his dark brooding grump, and she sees him for the man that he is behind the injuries and scars. Despite her feelings, August repels her affections, thinking that he is too much of a burden for her and she would eventually hate him, and that his and her goals in life are in opposition, because she is looking for love and a partnership in life, whereas he is looking merely to have an heir and then live in isolation as a recluse.
Generally a good historical grumpy-sunshine, beauty and the beast themed romance. But having read Aston's Second Sons of London series, this has super strong vibes of having of deja vu in relation to that series.
3.5 stars out of 5
April 30, 2024
Wonderful Characters
The book touched me emotionally more than I had expected. The story is good and I immediately fell in love with the Strong family. The way they interact with each other and the strong bond between them and their friends is really great to witness. Georgina's character is wonderful. She is open, direct and she sees the people behind their scars and masks, which makes her instantly endearing. August's suffering and trauma is palpable and the rejection of him by society was painful to witness.
Although the book has many references and explanations to the previous books in The Strongs of Shadowcrest series , I do not recommend reading this book on its own, but rather starting at the beginning of the series.
When Captain August Holt is seriously wounded in the war against Napoleon and loses an eye and a few fingers, he is forced to sell his commission and return to England. His father has recently passed away and his older brother is also dying. On his deathbed, August promises his brother that he will marry during the season and provide an heir. But this turns out to be more difficult than expected. Like himself, society sees him as a monster, except for Lady Georgina and her family, who welcome him with open arms and protect him against the attacks of the ton.
Lady Georgina Strong and her family come to London to make their debut in society. When she meets her neighbour by chance, she is immediately fascinated by him and wants to get to know him better. But while she is celebrated by society as the diamond of the season, August, despite being the new Marquess of Edgethorne and his wealth, is ostracised by society because of his looks and Georgina protects him against the malicious attacks from members of the ton.
Although his feelings towards Georgina grow stronger, August is firmly convinced that she is not the right woman for him and that he cannot condemn her to a life with a monster and a recluse...
An enjoyable read that I’m glad to recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book touched me emotionally more than I had expected. The story is good and I immediately fell in love with the Strong family. The way they interact with each other and the strong bond between them and their friends is really great to witness. Georgina's character is wonderful. She is open, direct and she sees the people behind their scars and masks, which makes her instantly endearing. August's suffering and trauma is palpable and the rejection of him by society was painful to witness.
Although the book has many references and explanations to the previous books in The Strongs of Shadowcrest series , I do not recommend reading this book on its own, but rather starting at the beginning of the series.
When Captain August Holt is seriously wounded in the war against Napoleon and loses an eye and a few fingers, he is forced to sell his commission and return to England. His father has recently passed away and his older brother is also dying. On his deathbed, August promises his brother that he will marry during the season and provide an heir. But this turns out to be more difficult than expected. Like himself, society sees him as a monster, except for Lady Georgina and her family, who welcome him with open arms and protect him against the attacks of the ton.
Lady Georgina Strong and her family come to London to make their debut in society. When she meets her neighbour by chance, she is immediately fascinated by him and wants to get to know him better. But while she is celebrated by society as the diamond of the season, August, despite being the new Marquess of Edgethorne and his wealth, is ostracised by society because of his looks and Georgina protects him against the malicious attacks from members of the ton.
Although his feelings towards Georgina grow stronger, August is firmly convinced that she is not the right woman for him and that he cannot condemn her to a life with a monster and a recluse...
An enjoyable read that I’m glad to recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 24, 2024
4 STARS, HISTORICAL ROMANCE DRAMA
4 STARS to Alexa Aston for Book 3 in her well written storyline in the Series: The Strings of Shadowcrest & provides a great BLURB. Interesting characters & with some from earlier books in the series.
Don't miss out on a relationship that from the beginning when they met & touched they both felt a connection between them of a strong electrical vibrating tingle from the point they touched to spread throughout their bodies. A man scarred during battle at war himself feeling horrified by his appearance yet gave his word to his dying brother he would attend the season & take a wife. A Duke's sister's first season who only sees how handsome he was & is along with the bravery he must have to have suffered such wounds & still recover. This is one you don't want to miss out on.
I left the 5th STAR off because of several things:The cousins who had lived with them their entire lives & are just at the 1st Season coming out stage in this era suddenly after being guided by the dowager Countess for ever just decide they knew better & overode what she & their cousin, the current Duke thought was best for them to do. Then, our wonderful debutante Georgie who is just being introduced to society gets up in front of a ballroom full of the Ton & gives a man welcome while hearing nasty comments. At other times she tells an elderly Lady of the Ton she owes same man an apology.
Oh the biggest problem is she introduces herself to everyone she chooses without having that 3rd party there to do so, which is a social death knell in the Ton, or the at least the threat of it. I felt I had to keep that last star off for all my authors who diligently pay strict attention to the details of the era.
I enjoyed reading this book & loved the H & H, especially since he was a disabled vet from a war still being fought. They both had to readjust their lives they were used to living & that is where the reader really benefits.
RECOMMEND
4 STARS to Alexa Aston for Book 3 in her well written storyline in the Series: The Strings of Shadowcrest & provides a great BLURB. Interesting characters & with some from earlier books in the series.
Don't miss out on a relationship that from the beginning when they met & touched they both felt a connection between them of a strong electrical vibrating tingle from the point they touched to spread throughout their bodies. A man scarred during battle at war himself feeling horrified by his appearance yet gave his word to his dying brother he would attend the season & take a wife. A Duke's sister's first season who only sees how handsome he was & is along with the bravery he must have to have suffered such wounds & still recover. This is one you don't want to miss out on.
I left the 5th STAR off because of several things:The cousins who had lived with them their entire lives & are just at the 1st Season coming out stage in this era suddenly after being guided by the dowager Countess for ever just decide they knew better & overode what she & their cousin, the current Duke thought was best for them to do. Then, our wonderful debutante Georgie who is just being introduced to society gets up in front of a ballroom full of the Ton & gives a man welcome while hearing nasty comments. At other times she tells an elderly Lady of the Ton she owes same man an apology.
Oh the biggest problem is she introduces herself to everyone she chooses without having that 3rd party there to do so, which is a social death knell in the Ton, or the at least the threat of it. I felt I had to keep that last star off for all my authors who diligently pay strict attention to the details of the era.
I enjoyed reading this book & loved the H & H, especially since he was a disabled vet from a war still being fought. They both had to readjust their lives they were used to living & that is where the reader really benefits.
RECOMMEND
April 21, 2024
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
If you've read my reviews of other books in this series you know that I have found these stories to be underwhelming. I'm not giving up on them though because I'm not giving up on this author. As with the previous books I found this to be completely lacking in anything all that interesting - at points I also found it kind of boring. I realize there's a fine line between too easy a story and an overly dramatic story, but this one just sits too far on the too easy side of that. There is really nothing keeping Georgina and August apart other than his low self-confidence in his appeal to women. Georgina's biggest problem in the book is that the man she likes doesn't immediately like her just as much (or at least isn't willing to admit/act on it). Yes, her sister and cousins leave her to tackle her first season alone but she still has her mother there and she doesn't seem to really miss any of them or have situations in which she would have needed them there. I understood where the cousins were coming from with their reluctance to go, but they come across kind of whiny about it. Even the first meeting between Georgina and August seems too contrived and too easy. I guess it's supposed to be a kind of "love at first sight" event but I just didn't buy it. I wish the author hadn't dropped Georgina's attempts to make friends with the wallflowers after just one chapter. This girl has no friends outside of her family, it would have been nice to know she was able to branch out a little. As with the first two books, even the separation of the two main characters is pretty easily and pretty quickly resolved.
If you've read my reviews of other books in this series you know that I have found these stories to be underwhelming. I'm not giving up on them though because I'm not giving up on this author. As with the previous books I found this to be completely lacking in anything all that interesting - at points I also found it kind of boring. I realize there's a fine line between too easy a story and an overly dramatic story, but this one just sits too far on the too easy side of that. There is really nothing keeping Georgina and August apart other than his low self-confidence in his appeal to women. Georgina's biggest problem in the book is that the man she likes doesn't immediately like her just as much (or at least isn't willing to admit/act on it). Yes, her sister and cousins leave her to tackle her first season alone but she still has her mother there and she doesn't seem to really miss any of them or have situations in which she would have needed them there. I understood where the cousins were coming from with their reluctance to go, but they come across kind of whiny about it. Even the first meeting between Georgina and August seems too contrived and too easy. I guess it's supposed to be a kind of "love at first sight" event but I just didn't buy it. I wish the author hadn't dropped Georgina's attempts to make friends with the wallflowers after just one chapter. This girl has no friends outside of her family, it would have been nice to know she was able to branch out a little. As with the first two books, even the separation of the two main characters is pretty easily and pretty quickly resolved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2024
Falling for the Marquess by Alexa Aston seems like a good book at first sight. And it mostly is. I read it in one sitting so I obviously didn't have a big issue with the book. I enjoyed the book, but my three main concerns didn't allow me to love it. The first and the biggest one is August's self-esteem. I tried to be patient with this man, but I honestly couldn't after a while. He was making one step forward and two back. If I were in his place, I would be worse, I know that, but it was the main and only conflict, so at the end of the day it just dragged the book. The second thing is that for a chapter maybe two, Georgie tried to make friends with some of the wallflowers and even introduced August to one of them but after the wallflowers served their purpose, they disappeared and there was no mention of them again. That was a subplot that led to nowhere and it felt like it should have had more room to develop. The third one will be remedied by the time the next book arrives because it involves mama Strong. It was mentioned time and again that much like her daughter, she is also searching for a match and it was a big plot of the book. So imagine my surprise when the book ended and we got no word of her happy ending. As it turns out, it was a set up for the 4rth book in the series which will feature mama Strong, but it still ended with my being a little disappointed. I don't want to end the review on a bad note, so I will add two things that I loved. The first one is the epilogue which was properly done and up to my standards and the second one is the cover. It matches the main characters almost perfectly! The male model is wearing an eye patch like our hero and the yellow dress is mentioned in the book! The only thing that isn't present is Georgie's blue eyes.
July 2, 2024
Falling for the Marquess is the third book in the Strongs of Shadowcrest. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I admit the family is fun to read about so at some point you might want to read the prior novels. Alexa Aston has created a family with a number of children and cousins, which means there is lots of material for more books going forward.
Georgiana is one of a set of twins. Her twin married earlier in the year and Georgiana is feeling a bit alone. This is her year to “come out” in society and her twin cousins and next sister was supposed to be with her. She is determined to only marry for love and not for any other reason.
August Holt as a second son is expected to join the military, after all he is the spare. Only life doesn’t always work out the way you think or plan. His father and brother both passed away and he is seriously wounded and scarred in the war. He was determined to marry for heirs and then remove himself so as not to damage his wife and children with his presence.
Georgiana and August seemingly connect. The Strong family embraced him wholeheartedly. Georgiana wants him, but he doesn’t think he deserves him. She is falling for the Marquess as the title suggests. Alexa Aston has written a fun historical romance with her new book Falling for the Marquess.
Georgiana is one of a set of twins. Her twin married earlier in the year and Georgiana is feeling a bit alone. This is her year to “come out” in society and her twin cousins and next sister was supposed to be with her. She is determined to only marry for love and not for any other reason.
August Holt as a second son is expected to join the military, after all he is the spare. Only life doesn’t always work out the way you think or plan. His father and brother both passed away and he is seriously wounded and scarred in the war. He was determined to marry for heirs and then remove himself so as not to damage his wife and children with his presence.
Georgiana and August seemingly connect. The Strong family embraced him wholeheartedly. Georgiana wants him, but he doesn’t think he deserves him. She is falling for the Marquess as the title suggests. Alexa Aston has written a fun historical romance with her new book Falling for the Marquess.
September 1, 2024
This is the third installment of The Strongs of Shadowcrest series. It has been a captivating series so far, and this latest addition also did not disappoint. With a beauty and the beast vibe, the story pulled me in right from the start and kept me engaged till the end. All in just a matter of weeks, August loses his father and brother and becomes severely disfigured. He made a promise to his brother before he died that he would marry and have children, but who would want to spend their life with someone who looked like a monster, albeit a wealthy war hero with a title? Georgina Strong is making her come-out this season and she vows to settle for nothing less than a love match. She has her share of endless suitors, but there is only one man that catches her eye and her heart. Georgina sees beyond August's scars, to the man he is inside and August finds himself captivated and truly taken by her. But he doesn't believe he is deserving of her. But in Geogina's eyes, August is the only man for her.
The vulnerability that August feels definitely pulled at my heartstrings and the pure love and sweetness portrayed by Georgina was heartwarming. This was a beautiful story that I very much enjoyed and I look forward to continuing the series.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The vulnerability that August feels definitely pulled at my heartstrings and the pure love and sweetness portrayed by Georgina was heartwarming. This was a beautiful story that I very much enjoyed and I look forward to continuing the series.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
April 19, 2024
We start with August’s story as he’s injured at war and sent home, finding that his father died and his brother is on his deathbed, and leaving him the newly inherited marquess. He’s pretty frightened of his own physical scars and his new responsibilities, but makes his brother a deathbed promise to marry next Season and sire an heir. Meanwhile, Georgina is the daughter and sister of a duke getting ready for her debut into society with her sister and two cousins and hoping to hold out for a love match, like she’s seen her twin sister and older brother achieve. She has a chance meeting with August in a bookstore and instantly feels a connection to him and boldly introduces herself and invites him to tea with her family. She’s even more glad to find out that he’s their neighbor and that their two homes share a garden. He’s hesitant at the attention, believing himself to look like a monster, but she’s certainly charming and assertive. We find that the Strongs are a supportive family and show their approval of August quite publicly. He’s just got to get over his own insecurity if he wants to build a life with Georgina.
May 6, 2024
Nice addition to the series, with interesting main and secondary characters. This should be a long series with so many characters. It is a standalone story, but since crossover characters you'll want to see how it all began.
The h was forward in how she acted with the H. He is severely wounded from the war and people treat him awful. He has damaged to his hand and no mention was made if he had a hard time with anything.
The H hears all the nasty talk about how ugly he is now, and my heart ached for him.
Another part that I felt was dropped, was the interaction of the Wallflowers, especially with the H. What happened to the one he paid attention too? Did men see her differently since she danced with s Marquess? Plus, the Diamond of the season, talked to her
Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 3+ out of 5. Love does happen slowly with some lack of communication that caused ripples in their journey to HEA.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, sweet epilogue 5 years in the future and a tad of spice. Ended at the 96% on my e-reader. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)
The h was forward in how she acted with the H. He is severely wounded from the war and people treat him awful. He has damaged to his hand and no mention was made if he had a hard time with anything.
The H hears all the nasty talk about how ugly he is now, and my heart ached for him.
Another part that I felt was dropped, was the interaction of the Wallflowers, especially with the H. What happened to the one he paid attention too? Did men see her differently since she danced with s Marquess? Plus, the Diamond of the season, talked to her
Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 3+ out of 5. Love does happen slowly with some lack of communication that caused ripples in their journey to HEA.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, sweet epilogue 5 years in the future and a tad of spice. Ended at the 96% on my e-reader. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)
August 17, 2024
You can’t fight love…..
This was my kind of love story. There was no villain to conquer. The only demons they had to deal with were internal feelings of worth. August thought his life would never be the same after being scarred after injuries from the war. All he really needed was someone in his life that saw things in him that he couldn’t anymore. Georgina and her family were just what he needed to make him feel whole again.
I loved all the characters in this story. The Strong Family is the exception to the stuffy aristocratic families in the ton, except the Dowager who is occasionally stuck on the “rules” of the ton. The love and acceptance that the Strong Family showed one another was so endearing. This story contained good characters with depth and heart and great relationships that showed strong bonds. It had humor as well as serious emotional topics. There were kisses and one steamy scene, but nothing too descriptive. This was a good love story that kept the focus on romance and the couple falling in love without people interfering or one person being antagonistic. A good read!
This was my kind of love story. There was no villain to conquer. The only demons they had to deal with were internal feelings of worth. August thought his life would never be the same after being scarred after injuries from the war. All he really needed was someone in his life that saw things in him that he couldn’t anymore. Georgina and her family were just what he needed to make him feel whole again.
I loved all the characters in this story. The Strong Family is the exception to the stuffy aristocratic families in the ton, except the Dowager who is occasionally stuck on the “rules” of the ton. The love and acceptance that the Strong Family showed one another was so endearing. This story contained good characters with depth and heart and great relationships that showed strong bonds. It had humor as well as serious emotional topics. There were kisses and one steamy scene, but nothing too descriptive. This was a good love story that kept the focus on romance and the couple falling in love without people interfering or one person being antagonistic. A good read!
April 28, 2024
I have enjoyed reading about the unusual Storm family, especially as they defied convention in every way when hardship and scandal came their way. If anyone could weather a storm it is Lady Georgina and her siblings. Forced to resign his commission and return to the country he almost died fighting for, the Marquess of Edgethorne faces ridicule and insults as a result of his injuries. There is one person who sees behind the mask and Lady Georgina refuses to let August be disparaged in society, standing up for him when no one else will. Unfortunately, August's insecurities get in the way of him truly falling in love, until it finally dawns on him that he is already in love with her and all her actions have proven her feelings for him. August almost misses his opportunity to win the wonderful woman who has stood by him but good sense prevails and the novel concludes on a lovely note, bringing the Storms and those they love, together. I received a copy of this warmhearted romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 22, 2024
A briliant story . August Holt is a Captain in the Peninsular Wars when he gets injured . He loses his three fingers from his left hand , his left eye and gains scars in his face . When he returns in England he learns that his father the Marquess is dead and his brother is dying . His brother before he dies makes him promise that he will marry . When he meets Lady Georgina Strong he discovers that she sees the man and not the scars like all the others . Georgie is looking to find a husband who will love him and love her back and want to raise their children together . At first he insist that all he want is to marry a woman have an heir and then live alone in his estate in Scotland . Spenting time with the Strong family will make him realise that he is not a beast and that his scars can't define him . Will Georgie make him realise what she is the woman that he needs ?
I received this book from netgalley and the publicer as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .
I received this book from netgalley and the publicer as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .
May 3, 2024
Delightful, sweet and swoony HR read! This is so sweet with just a little bit of angst and just so much feels. I so loved the family dynamics and friendships portrayed in this book. It is very healthy, and I just loved how the FMC's family accepted and really loved the MMC as well.
Of course the romance! Oh my, this book made me giddy and smile, I felt butterflies in my stomach. I loved the meet cute! I also adored how they think of each other. The hero was a bit coward and silly at first in trying to push the heroine away because he really cared about his looks but eventually he got over constantly worrying about his looks. The chemistry and their scens together are so good. I also loved the pacing of this book, this is quite fast-paced and I liked that.
I so loved the how it ended, I was left feeling satisfied after everything. Good thing I found this book as I am going through a hard time in my life, this lightened things up a bit for me. Might reread in the future.
Of course the romance! Oh my, this book made me giddy and smile, I felt butterflies in my stomach. I loved the meet cute! I also adored how they think of each other. The hero was a bit coward and silly at first in trying to push the heroine away because he really cared about his looks but eventually he got over constantly worrying about his looks. The chemistry and their scens together are so good. I also loved the pacing of this book, this is quite fast-paced and I liked that.
I so loved the how it ended, I was left feeling satisfied after everything. Good thing I found this book as I am going through a hard time in my life, this lightened things up a bit for me. Might reread in the future.
May 7, 2024
4 stars
I quite liked the story. There were no external protaganists just August self loathing for his loss of looks.
Georgie looks around to see if there are any other candidates for her hand and then plumbs for him. I thought the heavy petting in a park over looked by their houses seemed a bit risky and a bit out of sync with the August's character. There were a few historical bits that made me reach for google. such as when were hyperdermic needles used. Although Morphine was available apparently it wasn't admistered much until the needle was used...much later than this story was set in 1810. We meet again the Strong family and learn that Sophie and Pippa are pregnany. The epilogue was useful and I assume Mama is up next?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I quite liked the story. There were no external protaganists just August self loathing for his loss of looks.
Georgie looks around to see if there are any other candidates for her hand and then plumbs for him. I thought the heavy petting in a park over looked by their houses seemed a bit risky and a bit out of sync with the August's character. There were a few historical bits that made me reach for google. such as when were hyperdermic needles used. Although Morphine was available apparently it wasn't admistered much until the needle was used...much later than this story was set in 1810. We meet again the Strong family and learn that Sophie and Pippa are pregnany. The epilogue was useful and I assume Mama is up next?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2024
This is a fun, entertaining read. August and Georgina are interesting, complex, wounded, intriguing, entertaining, relatable characters. Their romance with its twists and turns is entertaining to read. I love that Georgie is a strong, independent woman and stands up for what she believes in. I would have loved to have seen the wallflower part of the story be more. I loved the epilogue and how we get to see the couple enjoying their HEA. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. I love that the couple from the first story in the series was so prominent. The story is easy to read and get into.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2024
A Request, A Promise, A Romance:
A tragic beginning has August facing an uncertain life after being terribly wounded during the war. He not only has physical scars but emotional ones that takes him awhile to conquer and let love into his life.
Unexpectedly meeting a sparkling highly spirited Georgina in a bookstore brought two wonderful characters together for a most exciting and frustrating romance story that I enjoyed tremendously.
Several ups and downs with some heartfelt discussions along with simmering passionate romance that finally develops into a love that brings this romance story to a very rewarding ending...
💋Book 3 of a wonderful series
👀I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
A tragic beginning has August facing an uncertain life after being terribly wounded during the war. He not only has physical scars but emotional ones that takes him awhile to conquer and let love into his life.
Unexpectedly meeting a sparkling highly spirited Georgina in a bookstore brought two wonderful characters together for a most exciting and frustrating romance story that I enjoyed tremendously.
Several ups and downs with some heartfelt discussions along with simmering passionate romance that finally develops into a love that brings this romance story to a very rewarding ending...
💋Book 3 of a wonderful series
👀I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
April 27, 2024
A wounded veteran home from the war, a second son who inherits, a new marquess who promises his brother that he’ll marry and continue the family line. The debutante he feels he doesn’t deserve.
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Based on the synopsis, I really hoped to adore this story but unfortunately, I found this… underwhelming. The stakes were so low, and I wasn’t able to find a connection to it, or either of the main characters. Though well written, it was very slow and I didn’t find much that caught my interest until about 45% of the way in.
Although this specific story wasn’t for me, I’m rating it up to 3 stars because it is well written, and I will check out more of this series.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC
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Based on the synopsis, I really hoped to adore this story but unfortunately, I found this… underwhelming. The stakes were so low, and I wasn’t able to find a connection to it, or either of the main characters. Though well written, it was very slow and I didn’t find much that caught my interest until about 45% of the way in.
Although this specific story wasn’t for me, I’m rating it up to 3 stars because it is well written, and I will check out more of this series.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC
May 1, 2024
This was the story of a man with physical and emotional scars who refused to believe that he had actually found his soulmate. It is part of a series and probably best if read in order. I read it as a freestanding book and I was constantly bombarded by the names of countless off-page characters. That being said, I was still able to enjoy the story.
Georgina was a level-headed young lady who was able to see beyond August's scars. The fact that she was able to do this enabled August to begin living his life more fully. Things came to a happy conclusion as soon as August realized that Georgina was the only woman for him. The book was character-focused and relatively low-steam. I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Georgina was a level-headed young lady who was able to see beyond August's scars. The fact that she was able to do this enabled August to begin living his life more fully. Things came to a happy conclusion as soon as August realized that Georgina was the only woman for him. The book was character-focused and relatively low-steam. I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest review.
May 9, 2024
Looking beyond appearance and getting to know someone for who they truly are is so important in life. Georgiana Strong was a perfect example of that and her relationship with August. Poor August had lost his eye in battle in France and really struggled being out in society thinking how hideous he looked.
I liked that another Strong sibling found love. Georgiana and August had to learn to stick up for eachother and get of what others thought. This romance was heartwarming with a couple kind and likeable characters.
I am looking forward to the sibling that gets to find love next. The Strongs are an eclectic bunch.
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
I liked that another Strong sibling found love. Georgiana and August had to learn to stick up for eachother and get of what others thought. This romance was heartwarming with a couple kind and likeable characters.
I am looking forward to the sibling that gets to find love next. The Strongs are an eclectic bunch.
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
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