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A Heart full of Hope
Is love an illusion? A heartwarming historical saga set against the background of two very different worlds in Edwardian London
When Charity Browne arrives at The Fitzroy Hotel on her way to a country house party, she knows there’s more to the invitation than a weekend of revelry. She’s old enough to be married and her family are hoping for a good match.
Sparks fly when she collides with dashing Jack Carter, the hotel housekeeper’s disreputable brother.
A visit to a home for waifs and strays makes Charity question her values. Her attempt to help a small, mute boy she sees there leads her to attractive and worthy Dr Adam Radcliffe. Together they uncover a web of deceit, betrayal and lies surrounding the boy’s family.
Fate unites Jack and Charity in a quest to save the boy from unimaginable evil.
Will Charity fall for Jack’s mesmerising charm, or will Adam’s selfless compassion capture her heart?
Packed with compelling twists and turns A Heart full of Hope is a perfect read for fans of Downton Abbey and Upstairs Downstairs.
When Charity Browne arrives at The Fitzroy Hotel on her way to a country house party, she knows there’s more to the invitation than a weekend of revelry. She’s old enough to be married and her family are hoping for a good match.
Sparks fly when she collides with dashing Jack Carter, the hotel housekeeper’s disreputable brother.
A visit to a home for waifs and strays makes Charity question her values. Her attempt to help a small, mute boy she sees there leads her to attractive and worthy Dr Adam Radcliffe. Together they uncover a web of deceit, betrayal and lies surrounding the boy’s family.
Fate unites Jack and Charity in a quest to save the boy from unimaginable evil.
Will Charity fall for Jack’s mesmerising charm, or will Adam’s selfless compassion capture her heart?
Packed with compelling twists and turns A Heart full of Hope is a perfect read for fans of Downton Abbey and Upstairs Downstairs.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2024
39 people are currently reading
4 people want to read
About the author
Kay Seeley
26 books22 followersKay Seeley is a talented storyteller and bestselling author. Her short stories have been published in women’s magazines and short-listed in competitions. Her novels had been finalists in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. She lives in London and loves its history. Her stories are well researched, beautifully written with compelling characters where love triumphs over adversity. Kay writes stories that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Often heart-wrenching but always satisfyingly uplifting, her books are perfect for fans of Anna Jacobs, Lesley Pearse and Josephine Cox. All her novels are available for Kindle, in paperback, audio and in Large Print.s.
She is a member of The Alliance of Independent Authors and The Society of Women Writers and Journalists.
Visit her website www.kayseeleyauthor.com
She is a member of The Alliance of Independent Authors and The Society of Women Writers and Journalists.
Visit her website www.kayseeleyauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
June 5, 2024
I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.
A Heart Full of Hope by Kay Seeley is a historical romance about following your heart and understanding what it means to have long-lasting love rather than love based on infatuation alone. Charity Browne is a young, rambunctious woman who is strongly encouraged to find a match by her aunt and mother. She runs into a man named Jack Carter, and it’s love at first sight. She finds herself smitten, only to fall harder when she realizes the heart of gold behind his roguish charm. Things are further complicated when another suitor, the local doctor, Adam Radcliffe gently nudges Charity’s heart in other directions, a genuine gentleman who will do everything he can to ensure her happiness.
I enjoy the dynamic between Charity, Adam, and Jack. It’s not as high stakes as some of the other romances I’ve read, and the characters can look beyond themselves and their love interests. I adored how much Jack bonded with Billy and Sara, and even though he clearly cares for Charity, he can let her go and give her the life she deserves, all the while pursuing his dreams. Personally, Charity’s free to choose who she wants to be with (she can be single if she wants to, though I doubt her mother would be happy about that), but I feel she could do more good with Adam than Jack. I talk about this from personal experience; to be in a helping profession, especially as a teacher or therapist, you need to know the resources in the community. And while Charity can definitely help Jack entertain the masses, her real passion lies in helping the people in front of her. I can definitely see her as a case worker of some kind in Adam’s practice, or a coordinator for the boy’s home to ensure that people who have experienced abuse have a haven to go to.
Moreover, I enjoyed how Daisy stood up for Elise, despite all the shit that girl put her through. She reminded me of a girl who flew too close to the sun, impulsively acting on her heart’s desires without thinking of the consequences. Still, Daisy was able to mend some of the bridges Elise burnt. This reflects something worthwhile; like Charity, Daisy looked out for people who weren’t as privileged as her, especially women in the workplace. She gave them a place to belong and a financial way to fight back, albeit very subtle. It asks what she’d think of the feminist revolutions we’re experiencing now.
Seeley values providing a voice to the oppressed. Charity and Daisy are reflections of England’s changing standards of living. The more improved those standards are, the more likely seeing someone vulnerable, like children or women, being impoverished, reflects a moral failing in the culture. It’s probably the reason these women got involved. While women were chained by gender norms, the women in Seeley’s story are much more empowered. Their voices actually matter. Maybe that’s why the book is called A Heart Full of Hope. Love plays an important part in these women’s lives, but they don’t allow love to dictate their lives and instead use it to power their actions and figure out what’s next. And honestly, it’s very wholesome.
I absolutely loved this book. I can see readers fatigued by the dark romance trend take comfort in this lighthearted story. As such, I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars.
A Heart Full of Hope by Kay Seeley is a historical romance about following your heart and understanding what it means to have long-lasting love rather than love based on infatuation alone. Charity Browne is a young, rambunctious woman who is strongly encouraged to find a match by her aunt and mother. She runs into a man named Jack Carter, and it’s love at first sight. She finds herself smitten, only to fall harder when she realizes the heart of gold behind his roguish charm. Things are further complicated when another suitor, the local doctor, Adam Radcliffe gently nudges Charity’s heart in other directions, a genuine gentleman who will do everything he can to ensure her happiness.
I enjoy the dynamic between Charity, Adam, and Jack. It’s not as high stakes as some of the other romances I’ve read, and the characters can look beyond themselves and their love interests. I adored how much Jack bonded with Billy and Sara, and even though he clearly cares for Charity, he can let her go and give her the life she deserves, all the while pursuing his dreams. Personally, Charity’s free to choose who she wants to be with (she can be single if she wants to, though I doubt her mother would be happy about that), but I feel she could do more good with Adam than Jack. I talk about this from personal experience; to be in a helping profession, especially as a teacher or therapist, you need to know the resources in the community. And while Charity can definitely help Jack entertain the masses, her real passion lies in helping the people in front of her. I can definitely see her as a case worker of some kind in Adam’s practice, or a coordinator for the boy’s home to ensure that people who have experienced abuse have a haven to go to.
Moreover, I enjoyed how Daisy stood up for Elise, despite all the shit that girl put her through. She reminded me of a girl who flew too close to the sun, impulsively acting on her heart’s desires without thinking of the consequences. Still, Daisy was able to mend some of the bridges Elise burnt. This reflects something worthwhile; like Charity, Daisy looked out for people who weren’t as privileged as her, especially women in the workplace. She gave them a place to belong and a financial way to fight back, albeit very subtle. It asks what she’d think of the feminist revolutions we’re experiencing now.
Seeley values providing a voice to the oppressed. Charity and Daisy are reflections of England’s changing standards of living. The more improved those standards are, the more likely seeing someone vulnerable, like children or women, being impoverished, reflects a moral failing in the culture. It’s probably the reason these women got involved. While women were chained by gender norms, the women in Seeley’s story are much more empowered. Their voices actually matter. Maybe that’s why the book is called A Heart Full of Hope. Love plays an important part in these women’s lives, but they don’t allow love to dictate their lives and instead use it to power their actions and figure out what’s next. And honestly, it’s very wholesome.
I absolutely loved this book. I can see readers fatigued by the dark romance trend take comfort in this lighthearted story. As such, I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars.
July 15, 2024
An Edwardian saga full of atmosphere, drama and intrigue, A Heart Full of Hope by Kay Seeley is a terrific yarn readers will be wholly swept up in.
Charity Browne is well aware of the fact that she is at that age where her family are expecting her to make a suitable match. On her way to a house party, she stops at the Fitzroy Hotel and collides with the charming Jack Carter, the hotel housekeeper’s wayward brother whose disreputable reputation precedes him. Sparks immediately begin to fly between the two of them, however, Charity is about to find out that there will be even more surprises in store for her at the Fitzroy Hotel…
On her visit to a home for waifs and strays, Charity begins to question her beliefs and her values especially when she is confronted by the harsh realities of those less fortunate than her. As she tries helping a young deaf boy, she crosses paths with Dr Adam Radcliffe and together they unravel a web of lies and deceit about the boy’s family. As she begins to work closely with Adam, Charity’s heart is torn in two, but who will she choose? Disreputable Jack or kind-hearted Adam? Will she make the right decision? Or is she about to make a huge mistake she will regret for the rest of her life?
Kay Seeley’s vivid, colourful and emotive writing is sure to delight readers as they find themselves completely immersed in this entertaining and captivating saga of love, courage and hope full of wonderfully observed characters, tender romance and beguiling drama. A Heart full of Hope is a wonderful tale ideal for losing oneself into that will delight fans of Margaret Dickinson and Anna Jacobs.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Charity Browne is well aware of the fact that she is at that age where her family are expecting her to make a suitable match. On her way to a house party, she stops at the Fitzroy Hotel and collides with the charming Jack Carter, the hotel housekeeper’s wayward brother whose disreputable reputation precedes him. Sparks immediately begin to fly between the two of them, however, Charity is about to find out that there will be even more surprises in store for her at the Fitzroy Hotel…
On her visit to a home for waifs and strays, Charity begins to question her beliefs and her values especially when she is confronted by the harsh realities of those less fortunate than her. As she tries helping a young deaf boy, she crosses paths with Dr Adam Radcliffe and together they unravel a web of lies and deceit about the boy’s family. As she begins to work closely with Adam, Charity’s heart is torn in two, but who will she choose? Disreputable Jack or kind-hearted Adam? Will she make the right decision? Or is she about to make a huge mistake she will regret for the rest of her life?
Kay Seeley’s vivid, colourful and emotive writing is sure to delight readers as they find themselves completely immersed in this entertaining and captivating saga of love, courage and hope full of wonderfully observed characters, tender romance and beguiling drama. A Heart full of Hope is a wonderful tale ideal for losing oneself into that will delight fans of Margaret Dickinson and Anna Jacobs.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 7, 2024
I received an advanced review copy of this book, to review for a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
This historical saga is part of the Fitzroy Hotel series. It's set in London, during the early 1900s.
When I read a book like this, I always hope for an atmosphere, and to feel as though I'm escaping into the book's setting. I felt the author created that atmosphere straight away, the writing had a sort of charm about it, and I formed images in my mind of what Edwardian London was like.
The protagonist, Charity, was a character who came to life easily for me, from the author's description. I considered her first name, because it struck me as pretty and quite unusual. I wondered if her name might reflect her personality in some way, as I felt it should be most associated with a kindly nature. I knew that to find out what kind of character she was, I had to carry on reading.
The author brought Hotel Fitzroy to life, and it seemed a warm, pleasant location for the events of the story to take place. I warmed not only to Charity, but to some of the other characters too. In the latter part of the story, there were some moments that tugged at my heartstrings, when I began to question some of Charity's choices.
I found this a very easy, pleasant read, and it was quite heartwarming too. If you like historical sagas, consider giving this a try.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This historical saga is part of the Fitzroy Hotel series. It's set in London, during the early 1900s.
When I read a book like this, I always hope for an atmosphere, and to feel as though I'm escaping into the book's setting. I felt the author created that atmosphere straight away, the writing had a sort of charm about it, and I formed images in my mind of what Edwardian London was like.
The protagonist, Charity, was a character who came to life easily for me, from the author's description. I considered her first name, because it struck me as pretty and quite unusual. I wondered if her name might reflect her personality in some way, as I felt it should be most associated with a kindly nature. I knew that to find out what kind of character she was, I had to carry on reading.
The author brought Hotel Fitzroy to life, and it seemed a warm, pleasant location for the events of the story to take place. I warmed not only to Charity, but to some of the other characters too. In the latter part of the story, there were some moments that tugged at my heartstrings, when I began to question some of Charity's choices.
I found this a very easy, pleasant read, and it was quite heartwarming too. If you like historical sagas, consider giving this a try.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
May 31, 2024
Charity Browne arrives in London with her aunt and stays in the prestigious Fitzroy Hotel. There she bumps into the charismatic Jack Carter who is a guest of the hotel and also the brother of the hotel's housekeeper. There is a spark of attraction between Charity and Jack but with their social classes so very different there can be no hope of a romance. Charity is meant to make an altogether more affluent match but that doesn't stop her hoping for something very different.
Set at the turn of the twentieth century and with the Edwardian era very much settled, Charity has a little more freedom than her Victorian counterparts and yet she is still restrained by what society expects of her. The story shows two very different sides of the social divide, the wealthy with their sojourns in luxury hotels and their affluent country houses, whilst the poor are subject to danger, abuse and unrelenting poverty. The author shows these differences well and yet also shows that kindness and compassion can also be found in unexpected places.
A Heart Full of Hope is a charming historical romance which continues the Fitzroy Hotel series of historical novels set in Edwardian London. Whilst there is some overlap of characters, it is perfectly possible to read each book as an enjoyable standalone story.
Set at the turn of the twentieth century and with the Edwardian era very much settled, Charity has a little more freedom than her Victorian counterparts and yet she is still restrained by what society expects of her. The story shows two very different sides of the social divide, the wealthy with their sojourns in luxury hotels and their affluent country houses, whilst the poor are subject to danger, abuse and unrelenting poverty. The author shows these differences well and yet also shows that kindness and compassion can also be found in unexpected places.
A Heart Full of Hope is a charming historical romance which continues the Fitzroy Hotel series of historical novels set in Edwardian London. Whilst there is some overlap of characters, it is perfectly possible to read each book as an enjoyable standalone story.
June 3, 2024
This book is part of The Fitzroy Hotel series, but it's the first one I have read and reads well as a standalone. The setting in a respected London Hotel is evocatively written and has an upstairs-downstairs vibe. Charity is visiting the hotel with her aunt, hoping to make a good marriage. Jack is part of a travelling show and is known as a chancer. Returned to England, he visits his sister Daisy, the housekeeper at the Fitzroy Hotel. Charity and Jack are attracted to each other, but their differences in class, expectations, and situations make any romantic relationship unlikely. Charity is invited to a weekend house party by her mother's friend and meets her son Ralf and his friend Adam, a doctor. Adam and Charity bond over a missing child, she is drawn to his kindness. I like Charity's romantic dilemma, socially acceptable Adam versus exciting Jack. The socio-political details are well-researched, and the young children's plight invests you in the characters. There are also several mysteries to solve. I like the historical detail, the exploration of class and gender differences in terms of expectations and the engaging setting of this story.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
June 2, 2024
I found this to be a promising start to a series, with the Fitzroy Hotel providing a great setting, full of potential for future stories. There are plenty of period details. The working life of the staff in the hotel is glimpsed as events evolve. You are also shown how the lives of young women were centred around the need to make a suitable marriage and the class system dictated their choices. The lives of the less well off had fewer choices and little control.
The story also looks at the plight of young orphans who are so at risk. The Church’s involvement in providing a level of care is described, with good and bad motives illustrated. The romance at the centre of the story is slow burning and Charity finds that she has a difficult choice to make. I am hoping for more in the series. There is a certain pathos in knowing what will happen to the world in just a few short years.
In short: social issues, romance and plenty of period detail.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
The story also looks at the plight of young orphans who are so at risk. The Church’s involvement in providing a level of care is described, with good and bad motives illustrated. The romance at the centre of the story is slow burning and Charity finds that she has a difficult choice to make. I am hoping for more in the series. There is a certain pathos in knowing what will happen to the world in just a few short years.
In short: social issues, romance and plenty of period detail.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
June 2, 2024
My thoughts:
A Heart full of Hope is a historical story that takes place in London at the Fitzroy Hotel.
Main character, Charity, has been brought to London to find a “suitable” husband. As time goes by, Charity finds herself torn as to what she should do.
There is some clean romance in the story.
The story gives us insight into how very different the classes of people are accepted.
I have not read the previous books in the series. I feel this can be read as a standalone with no issues.
Overall, a heartwarming and heartfelt read.
@shortbookthyme
#shortbookthyme
A Heart full of Hope is a historical story that takes place in London at the Fitzroy Hotel.
Main character, Charity, has been brought to London to find a “suitable” husband. As time goes by, Charity finds herself torn as to what she should do.
There is some clean romance in the story.
The story gives us insight into how very different the classes of people are accepted.
I have not read the previous books in the series. I feel this can be read as a standalone with no issues.
Overall, a heartwarming and heartfelt read.
@shortbookthyme
#shortbookthyme
May 30, 2024
Charity arrives at the Fitzroy Hotel. She knows that her parents are hoping she will find a husband while there. Can she decide between Jack Carter or the Dr?
I did think the book starts out slow but gradually picks up speed. Charity gets tangled up in two missing children. It’s a nice clean romance
I did think the book starts out slow but gradually picks up speed. Charity gets tangled up in two missing children. It’s a nice clean romance
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July 5, 2024Great ending to a nice series.
July 8, 2024
This book is the second book in The Fitzroy hotel series I rated the first book a 5 I really enjoyed it but this book didn’t quite live up to mark for me , but I still enjoyed the book anyway .
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews