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Grounds for Impropriety
How could a lady - so enamored by the elegance of the Elizabethan era - be falling for the poster boy of irritating irreverence and impropriety?
Avi Hawthorne is living proof that beauty and kindness don’t always equate to brimming confidence. With a traumatic past that has stolen her voice, smile, and adventurous spirit, Avi’s hindered present does not bode well for a bright and happy future. The only silver lining in her lackluster existence is her failing bookstore. There, through a seemingly infinite number of pages, Avi makes her daily escape to different worlds and times – far better suited for her timid, old soul than the ones she was born into. But all that is about to change…
With the help of her siblings and grandmother's will, Avi begins the adventure of a lifetime, bringing her favorite novels to life by purchasing Hawthorne Hall – a 17th century English estate – and turning it into an all-immersive, Regency-themed retreat for the quirkiest lineup of paying customers. It’s just too bad the most annoyingly handsome guest seems determined to sabotage the experience, make a mockery of everything she enjoys...and audaciously conquer her guarded heart.
Grounds for Impropriety is an opposites-attract, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, slow-burn, closed-door, contemporary, regency, seemingly difficult-to-label, romantic comedy.
This book contains zero swear words, light Christian aspects, and memories of traumatic events.
Avi Hawthorne is living proof that beauty and kindness don’t always equate to brimming confidence. With a traumatic past that has stolen her voice, smile, and adventurous spirit, Avi’s hindered present does not bode well for a bright and happy future. The only silver lining in her lackluster existence is her failing bookstore. There, through a seemingly infinite number of pages, Avi makes her daily escape to different worlds and times – far better suited for her timid, old soul than the ones she was born into. But all that is about to change…
With the help of her siblings and grandmother's will, Avi begins the adventure of a lifetime, bringing her favorite novels to life by purchasing Hawthorne Hall – a 17th century English estate – and turning it into an all-immersive, Regency-themed retreat for the quirkiest lineup of paying customers. It’s just too bad the most annoyingly handsome guest seems determined to sabotage the experience, make a mockery of everything she enjoys...and audaciously conquer her guarded heart.
Grounds for Impropriety is an opposites-attract, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, slow-burn, closed-door, contemporary, regency, seemingly difficult-to-label, romantic comedy.
This book contains zero swear words, light Christian aspects, and memories of traumatic events.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2024
96 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 26, 2024
Such a fantastic debut novel!
First, I love that you really don't know who the MMC is going to be right away! I thought it would bug me not knowing. But I loved wondering if it was going to be the Hollywood Actor, the quirky Millionaire, the broody Scottish guy, or the outgoing Relator.
I loved that all the characters from the main ones to the side ones have their own personalities! But two of my favorites outside the FMC and MMC are best guy friends who banter like Shawn and Gus from Pysch. They had me laughing all the time with their antics.
I love that the FMC is unknowingly on the autism spectrum. Who truly is okay spending her life hiding in her bookstore. But then her grandmother passes away and gives her a way to go on an adventure by leaving her some things in the will.
I love that the FMC has an amazingly supportive family who all have experienced trauma but have bonded through it. He gave Avi an amazing brother who is her advocate and would do anything for her. He's a man who I wished my own brother would have become.
Finally Parker just weaves the perfect slow burn romance full of light higher banter, deep heartfelt moments and of course the perfect sweet kisses!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2
Zero Swearing
First, I love that you really don't know who the MMC is going to be right away! I thought it would bug me not knowing. But I loved wondering if it was going to be the Hollywood Actor, the quirky Millionaire, the broody Scottish guy, or the outgoing Relator.
I loved that all the characters from the main ones to the side ones have their own personalities! But two of my favorites outside the FMC and MMC are best guy friends who banter like Shawn and Gus from Pysch. They had me laughing all the time with their antics.
I love that the FMC is unknowingly on the autism spectrum. Who truly is okay spending her life hiding in her bookstore. But then her grandmother passes away and gives her a way to go on an adventure by leaving her some things in the will.
I love that the FMC has an amazingly supportive family who all have experienced trauma but have bonded through it. He gave Avi an amazing brother who is her advocate and would do anything for her. He's a man who I wished my own brother would have become.
Finally Parker just weaves the perfect slow burn romance full of light higher banter, deep heartfelt moments and of course the perfect sweet kisses!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2
Zero Swearing
May 8, 2024
I enjoyed reading every page of this book! I was pleasantly surprised at how good the writing of this book was, and I LOVED the use of dialect. I could tell each of the characters were well thought out and planned, and their personalities showed so well through the pages. By the end of the book, I felt like I was friends with every one of the characters of this book.
I related so well with Avi with preferring the company of books and fictional worlds to people and real life. I loved how her struggles to have a real adventure instead of simply reading them made her grow in the story.
I won't spoil who the love interest was, but I will say that he was super sweet and kind! I'll admit that I didn't love him at first (like Avi), but it didn't take too long before I fell in love with his thoughtfulness and caring heart.
I was absolutely blown away by how sweet and well-written this book was! I can hardly wait for more books from this author!
I related so well with Avi with preferring the company of books and fictional worlds to people and real life. I loved how her struggles to have a real adventure instead of simply reading them made her grow in the story.
I won't spoil who the love interest was, but I will say that he was super sweet and kind! I'll admit that I didn't love him at first (like Avi), but it didn't take too long before I fell in love with his thoughtfulness and caring heart.
I was absolutely blown away by how sweet and well-written this book was! I can hardly wait for more books from this author!
May 4, 2024
This was a super sweet read. I was really excited when I found out this was going to be regency inspired, closed-door, and included some Christian themes (you never see that in romance novels so I was SO stoked). Although it was good, the first half was a little slow for me, and it wasn’t until the last half that I really wanted to keep reading; thus my 4 stars.
But Roberts is an exceptional writer in that his words, quite literally, felt like poetry. Even the bits that were supposed to be funny, I loved how he worded them. How he worded everything for that matter. It made the book that much more “regency-esque.” Incredibly Jane Austen, which you won’t miss out on in this read.
All in all, this was an extremely well written closed door romance, that tells a story of newfound personal growth and unexpected hope. 📚🇬🇧❤️🔥
But Roberts is an exceptional writer in that his words, quite literally, felt like poetry. Even the bits that were supposed to be funny, I loved how he worded them. How he worded everything for that matter. It made the book that much more “regency-esque.” Incredibly Jane Austen, which you won’t miss out on in this read.
All in all, this was an extremely well written closed door romance, that tells a story of newfound personal growth and unexpected hope. 📚🇬🇧❤️🔥
April 9, 2025
Good try
This novel was written by a husband who loves his wife and I give you 2 stars for that. But…it also reads like something written by a husband…for fun…for his wife, who said “oh yeah, include this! I love this trope, I love main characters who love books. What if Austenland had a twist? What if we added in this, etc etc” I’m not sure he’s read many actual romance novels lol
Case in point, sentences like this: “So, she surrenderingly sat and looked anywhere she could other than into the rarity of his turquoise irises.” LOL
And the male character spoke like this the whole time, which made it more difficult to read:
“Ye git a name?” Nothing. “Tis a'right, ah git it. Mibbie ah will juist call ye... Bogle…”
Fell short for me but maybe other readers will love it. I hope so because I feel bad but I just can’t.
This novel was written by a husband who loves his wife and I give you 2 stars for that. But…it also reads like something written by a husband…for fun…for his wife, who said “oh yeah, include this! I love this trope, I love main characters who love books. What if Austenland had a twist? What if we added in this, etc etc” I’m not sure he’s read many actual romance novels lol
Case in point, sentences like this: “So, she surrenderingly sat and looked anywhere she could other than into the rarity of his turquoise irises.” LOL
And the male character spoke like this the whole time, which made it more difficult to read:
“Ye git a name?” Nothing. “Tis a'right, ah git it. Mibbie ah will juist call ye... Bogle…”
Fell short for me but maybe other readers will love it. I hope so because I feel bad but I just can’t.
August 31, 2025
Very hard to follow, wording was off, and draaaagged hard core. Several places where important information is just thrown out there as known knowledge within the book and it hasn’t actually been previously discussed. Made for a very confusing read.
May 20, 2024
Cute Contemporary Clean Romance
Love that I was able to hear all the accents! This was a fun read from Parker Roberts and I’m interested to see if he expands this world
Love that I was able to hear all the accents! This was a fun read from Parker Roberts and I’m interested to see if he expands this world
May 4, 2024
Great wit from beginning to end.
So clever.
The storyline is a nod to Austenland but not an impostor.
The descriptions of some of the situations made me laugh out loud.
The characters are well defined and believable.
It's a really fun read and I can't wait for the next one.
So clever.
The storyline is a nod to Austenland but not an impostor.
The descriptions of some of the situations made me laugh out loud.
The characters are well defined and believable.
It's a really fun read and I can't wait for the next one.
May 9, 2024
“Stretch yourself! See the world! Take some risks! Throw caution to the wind! You need this, Avi Haw-thorne.”
📚Book blurb: With the help of her loving siblings and dear grandmother’s will, Avi begins the adventure of a lifetime, bringing her favorite novels to life by purchasing Hawthorne Hall – a lovely 17th century English estate – and turning it into an all-immersive, Regency-themed retreat for the quirkiest lineup of paying customers. However, it’s just too bad the most annoyingly handsome guest seems very determined to completely sabotage the whole experience, and make a real mockery of everything she enjoys...and audaciously conquer her guarded heart…
📚✅What’s to love:
-enemies to lovers
-forced proximity
-regency retreat
-opposites attract
-unique and original characters
-hidden rooms
-one horse
-puzzles
-travel
-archery
-humor
-detainment
-self discovery
“Learn to expect love in the most unexpected places.”
Grounds for Impropriety is told through third person multiple pov and is a story full of love, charm, and banter. @parkerrobertsauthor this is an unexpected , and pleasant clean romcom with a regency twist. The slow burn romance, deep heartfelt moments, and of course some swoony sweet kisses had my full attention. I loved that dear Avi took great courage to reach for her dreams with the support of her wonderful family! What a difference this made for Avi to bloom along the way. This is a great debute story worth the read and I do look forward to more stories in this series to come!
“When you truly love somebody you’re willing to do what’s best for them even if it’s not the easiest or most enjoyable thing.”
#groundsforimproperity
#parkerroberts
“Well. if she’s running, ah’m chasing.”
•All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
📚Book blurb: With the help of her loving siblings and dear grandmother’s will, Avi begins the adventure of a lifetime, bringing her favorite novels to life by purchasing Hawthorne Hall – a lovely 17th century English estate – and turning it into an all-immersive, Regency-themed retreat for the quirkiest lineup of paying customers. However, it’s just too bad the most annoyingly handsome guest seems very determined to completely sabotage the whole experience, and make a real mockery of everything she enjoys...and audaciously conquer her guarded heart…
📚✅What’s to love:
-enemies to lovers
-forced proximity
-regency retreat
-opposites attract
-unique and original characters
-hidden rooms
-one horse
-puzzles
-travel
-archery
-humor
-detainment
-self discovery
“Learn to expect love in the most unexpected places.”
Grounds for Impropriety is told through third person multiple pov and is a story full of love, charm, and banter. @parkerrobertsauthor this is an unexpected , and pleasant clean romcom with a regency twist. The slow burn romance, deep heartfelt moments, and of course some swoony sweet kisses had my full attention. I loved that dear Avi took great courage to reach for her dreams with the support of her wonderful family! What a difference this made for Avi to bloom along the way. This is a great debute story worth the read and I do look forward to more stories in this series to come!
“When you truly love somebody you’re willing to do what’s best for them even if it’s not the easiest or most enjoyable thing.”
#groundsforimproperity
#parkerroberts
“Well. if she’s running, ah’m chasing.”
•All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 3, 2024
Great Read!
That was such a fun book! Loved the story and flow and that it moved along well. Great happy endings all around. I hope you’ll tackle writing another book.
That was such a fun book! Loved the story and flow and that it moved along well. Great happy endings all around. I hope you’ll tackle writing another book.
August 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5) CLOSED-DOOR Contemporary Rom-com
🗓️ available NOW
📖 1st in the Hawthorne Hall series by Parker Roberts
📝 MY REVIEW: I really enjoyed Mr. Roberts’ take on romance! One of my favorite parts was watching Avi come into herself, step outside of her comfort zone, make new friends, and we’ll, fall in love! The siblings were written perfectly, and the growing bromance was hilarious (Josh is such a younger brother.) All in all… by the end, the sweet romance had me swooning.
The reason why I took .5 stars off my rating:
The book started a little slow for me, and there was one conversation about how they knew the gender of the deer that I did not appreciate.
🚨CONTENT:
* kissing only
* a few innuendos
* conversation about gender of a deer
* death and grief
🗓️ available NOW
📖 1st in the Hawthorne Hall series by Parker Roberts
📝 MY REVIEW: I really enjoyed Mr. Roberts’ take on romance! One of my favorite parts was watching Avi come into herself, step outside of her comfort zone, make new friends, and we’ll, fall in love! The siblings were written perfectly, and the growing bromance was hilarious (Josh is such a younger brother.) All in all… by the end, the sweet romance had me swooning.
The reason why I took .5 stars off my rating:
The book started a little slow for me, and there was one conversation about how they knew the gender of the deer that I did not appreciate.
🚨CONTENT:
* kissing only
* a few innuendos
* conversation about gender of a deer
* death and grief
January 8, 2025
I loved this book!! I was drawn in from the very beginning. Grounds of Impropriety is in my Top 5 Favorite books I’ve read this year! Each character had their own unique personality, which made me love each one. Some of the character’s dialogue had me laughing out loud. The cast felt so real to me.
Who was the MMC? I will not spoil it. You have to read this amazing book first. Was it the Millionaire, Hollywood Actor, good looking Realtor, or the Scottish guy?
Oh my word! Jack and Thomas were quite the duo. Their antics had me laughing so hard! Their different conversations, rants, and raves were hysterical!
“What was that barbarian doing; sleeping shirtless on a public couch like that…where was is decency? Ridiculous lack of etiquette and propriety.”
I loved Avi, the FMC. Growing up, she was quiet and remained that way. Always with her nose in a book and keeping to herself. It was refreshing to see her come out of her shell and really experience this adventure to the fullest. After all the trouble and embarrassments the MMC had put her through made her furious. But Avi was beginning to like him and find some redemption toward him. It didn’t take long for Avi to start falling for him.
The unwavering love and support Avi received from her family showed how much they truly cared about her. They helped her blossom along the journey. I felt like this was a large part of the story. How I adored Avi’s brother, Josh. He protected her to no end and was so patient with her.
I loved the relationship between Avi and the MMC. There was definitely some push and pull, but they got it figured out. The sweet couple together helped bring out the best in each other. She became feisty and he became more of a gentleman. As their relationship grew, they were able to open up about anything, one being the secrets they each carried (that was fun). I loved watching their romance grow.
This story was such a delightful and charming story. There was loved poured in, banter, humor, heartfelt moments, sweet kisses, and swoony romance.
Who was the MMC? I will not spoil it. You have to read this amazing book first. Was it the Millionaire, Hollywood Actor, good looking Realtor, or the Scottish guy?
Oh my word! Jack and Thomas were quite the duo. Their antics had me laughing so hard! Their different conversations, rants, and raves were hysterical!
“What was that barbarian doing; sleeping shirtless on a public couch like that…where was is decency? Ridiculous lack of etiquette and propriety.”
I loved Avi, the FMC. Growing up, she was quiet and remained that way. Always with her nose in a book and keeping to herself. It was refreshing to see her come out of her shell and really experience this adventure to the fullest. After all the trouble and embarrassments the MMC had put her through made her furious. But Avi was beginning to like him and find some redemption toward him. It didn’t take long for Avi to start falling for him.
The unwavering love and support Avi received from her family showed how much they truly cared about her. They helped her blossom along the journey. I felt like this was a large part of the story. How I adored Avi’s brother, Josh. He protected her to no end and was so patient with her.
I loved the relationship between Avi and the MMC. There was definitely some push and pull, but they got it figured out. The sweet couple together helped bring out the best in each other. She became feisty and he became more of a gentleman. As their relationship grew, they were able to open up about anything, one being the secrets they each carried (that was fun). I loved watching their romance grow.
This story was such a delightful and charming story. There was loved poured in, banter, humor, heartfelt moments, sweet kisses, and swoony romance.
January 13, 2025
A whimsical modern Austenian romance, that will make you blush--but nothing more.
I have followed the author, and his wife on Instagram for some time, and was especially interested in reading the book for two reasons; 1, the Roberts' seem like genuinely good people and I wanted to show support, and 2, because it is a "closed door romance", and like I said above, you will blush, but nothing more. In other terms, I would feel comfortable reading this in a church building.
But please don't misunderstand, this book still has the angst of misunderstandings so often shown in romance novels, but without the overt sexual tension.
This is the author's first novel if I'm not mistaken, and I am very impressed. You can tell great care was put into every part of this story; which makes sense when you learn that the author wrote this specifically with his wife in mind.
I gave this book a 4/5 stars. It was a very fun read, and the romance was cute, and a little silly; but I was still able to suspend my disbelief for the sake of enjoyment. It's very much a "niche" read; which is to say that it panders to a specific audience of readers. (Not that I'm complaining, as I am one of those readers.) The prose was very impressive. It took me a little while to get used to all the big words, frankly; but if you're well-versed in other books of this genre, or if you enjoy reading books from another era (ie, Jane Austen's works) then you probably won't mind the fancy language. I did get used to it after a couple chapters, though. An immense strength this book has is it's depiction of scottish accents. I'm no expert, but it sure seemed believable! I thought the falling in love of the two main leads was expertly done. The author set it up in such a way that you didn't see it coming at first, as it seemed like there were other potential male leads.
There were a couple moments that felt a little forced, like when the protagonist talks to God--I just kind of felt like it came a little out of left field; it was perhaps a bit too dramatic for me. I also thought the sudden death was a bit much. And while I did come to enjoy the poetic language, I did feel a little disconnected at times because I had to think a little harder than I usually do when reading lighthearted romance.
A note on plot:
The book moved at a pace you would expect of a lighthearted romantic comedy; that is, you could probably read it in a few sittings. It was satisfying, and it felt like most of the plot was fleshed out There were moments that tugged at your heartstrings, and the author did a good job with the major reveals (which I will not spoil) involving the protagonists family, specifically her parents.
All in all, I would defintely recommend this book, especially if you are one in the "clean regency romance" fan club.
Happy reading!
I have followed the author, and his wife on Instagram for some time, and was especially interested in reading the book for two reasons; 1, the Roberts' seem like genuinely good people and I wanted to show support, and 2, because it is a "closed door romance", and like I said above, you will blush, but nothing more. In other terms, I would feel comfortable reading this in a church building.
But please don't misunderstand, this book still has the angst of misunderstandings so often shown in romance novels, but without the overt sexual tension.
This is the author's first novel if I'm not mistaken, and I am very impressed. You can tell great care was put into every part of this story; which makes sense when you learn that the author wrote this specifically with his wife in mind.
I gave this book a 4/5 stars. It was a very fun read, and the romance was cute, and a little silly; but I was still able to suspend my disbelief for the sake of enjoyment. It's very much a "niche" read; which is to say that it panders to a specific audience of readers. (Not that I'm complaining, as I am one of those readers.) The prose was very impressive. It took me a little while to get used to all the big words, frankly; but if you're well-versed in other books of this genre, or if you enjoy reading books from another era (ie, Jane Austen's works) then you probably won't mind the fancy language. I did get used to it after a couple chapters, though. An immense strength this book has is it's depiction of scottish accents. I'm no expert, but it sure seemed believable! I thought the falling in love of the two main leads was expertly done. The author set it up in such a way that you didn't see it coming at first, as it seemed like there were other potential male leads.
There were a couple moments that felt a little forced, like when the protagonist talks to God--I just kind of felt like it came a little out of left field; it was perhaps a bit too dramatic for me. I also thought the sudden death was a bit much. And while I did come to enjoy the poetic language, I did feel a little disconnected at times because I had to think a little harder than I usually do when reading lighthearted romance.
A note on plot:
The book moved at a pace you would expect of a lighthearted romantic comedy; that is, you could probably read it in a few sittings. It was satisfying, and it felt like most of the plot was fleshed out There were moments that tugged at your heartstrings, and the author did a good job with the major reveals (which I will not spoil) involving the protagonists family, specifically her parents.
All in all, I would defintely recommend this book, especially if you are one in the "clean regency romance" fan club.
Happy reading!
May 7, 2024
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is the author's debut novel and I would like to read more from them and the Hawthorne Hall Book Series. The book's blurb gives you an idea of what to expect, though you'll still be delightfully surprised even if you read the blurb to find out what the story is about. Grounds for Impropriety is told though third person multiple pov and is a story full of love, charm, & wit.
CW: loss
Spice: sweet non-descriptive kisses
Whenever there's more than two povs in a book, it can feel like too many voices but I didn't have those feelings as I was reading this book. Part of the reason why is because I actually did like all the characters so I liked getting their thoughts. The other reason is because of the author's writing style, which I can't quite find the word to describe it but it was refreshing. I really enjoyed how the story was full of humor, that is the natural kind and not forced, and witty lines. It was an entertaining story that kept me interested from start to end.
As for the characters, I don't want to spoil who the MMC is but I will say how I loved seeing his attitude change as he spent more time with Avi, the FMC, and the guests at Hawthorne Hall. He brought out a fiery side of Avi and gave her a small push that she needed. She was used to playing things safe and I liked how she grew to take chances and follow her dreams thanks to the support of her family members. They were so supportive of her and I loved the bond that they had.
Romance wise, I enjoy the enemies to lovers trope, and when it's one sided, so I liked seeing Avi's feelings towards the MMC change once she put aside her notions about him. I liked how they were able to open up to each other and be vulnerable about their lives, including their thoughts about their faith.
Overall, I had a good time getting to know all the characters and wondering where their stories would good. This was a promising debut and a good start to the series, which I can't wait to continue reading.
CW: loss
Spice: sweet non-descriptive kisses
Whenever there's more than two povs in a book, it can feel like too many voices but I didn't have those feelings as I was reading this book. Part of the reason why is because I actually did like all the characters so I liked getting their thoughts. The other reason is because of the author's writing style, which I can't quite find the word to describe it but it was refreshing. I really enjoyed how the story was full of humor, that is the natural kind and not forced, and witty lines. It was an entertaining story that kept me interested from start to end.
As for the characters, I don't want to spoil who the MMC is but I will say how I loved seeing his attitude change as he spent more time with Avi, the FMC, and the guests at Hawthorne Hall. He brought out a fiery side of Avi and gave her a small push that she needed. She was used to playing things safe and I liked how she grew to take chances and follow her dreams thanks to the support of her family members. They were so supportive of her and I loved the bond that they had.
Romance wise, I enjoy the enemies to lovers trope, and when it's one sided, so I liked seeing Avi's feelings towards the MMC change once she put aside her notions about him. I liked how they were able to open up to each other and be vulnerable about their lives, including their thoughts about their faith.
Overall, I had a good time getting to know all the characters and wondering where their stories would good. This was a promising debut and a good start to the series, which I can't wait to continue reading.
June 20, 2024
The author, Parker Roberts, wrote this book for his wife. It’s filled with her favorite tropes. How sweet is that?
And that’s what drew me to this book the most, so I decided to pick it up. And I’m glad that I did, because I enjoyed it and think that Parker is a good writer.
There were a few things that kept me from truly loving this, however. The setup for the romance isn’t one of my favorites as one of the characters ends a 2+ year relationship and then immediately starts something with a new person. That is never my favorite beginning to read or watch. I also wasn’t really sure why the main character, Avi, liked Dane either. There wasn’t much of a buildup.
The other main drawback was the use of a Scottish brogue in writing. All dialogue from two Scottish characters was written with the accent and this slowed me down. A few lines here or there, reference to the accent, and it would have worked better for me. It was done really well, it just isn’t my favorite way to read.
I did like getting so many perspectives and seeing a bigger picture in some of the scenes as we switched between different characters.
I don’t know if he plans to release more books, but I think that the author shows promise and I would definitely pick up another book by him.
And that’s what drew me to this book the most, so I decided to pick it up. And I’m glad that I did, because I enjoyed it and think that Parker is a good writer.
There were a few things that kept me from truly loving this, however. The setup for the romance isn’t one of my favorites as one of the characters ends a 2+ year relationship and then immediately starts something with a new person. That is never my favorite beginning to read or watch. I also wasn’t really sure why the main character, Avi, liked Dane either. There wasn’t much of a buildup.
The other main drawback was the use of a Scottish brogue in writing. All dialogue from two Scottish characters was written with the accent and this slowed me down. A few lines here or there, reference to the accent, and it would have worked better for me. It was done really well, it just isn’t my favorite way to read.
I did like getting so many perspectives and seeing a bigger picture in some of the scenes as we switched between different characters.
I don’t know if he plans to release more books, but I think that the author shows promise and I would definitely pick up another book by him.
January 16, 2025
Did I find myself, like Avi’s brother, using a Scottish accent for the 5 days I took to melt through this? Aye. Aye did, din eye?
One thing I loved was the Christian themes so rare to find in these books. His writing style is detailed without being boring, and the whole cast for the book were apropos. I liked that it was written in the contemporary world. What regency-era fan wouldn’t want an immersive experience AND modern conveniences afterwards? The author gets regency stuff- he must have done his research, because I learned a few new things myself.
I didn’t notice until I read a few reviews that Avi is slightly on the autism spectrum, tending to spend time alone or on puzzles, (a puzzle piece being a sort of symbol for those with autism).
Avi’s has a strong, supportive family and helps the narrative smoothly. I liked that I didn’t know who the love interest was going to be from the onset, and it made me love the journey even more.
Faithful, not lustful, slow burn, sweet moments, multiple viewpoints, real-world while having a spark of fictionality, strong family
Possible triggers: talking about a parent having passed away, accidental animal harm, elderly person passing away.
Please write more, Mr. Roberts.
One thing I loved was the Christian themes so rare to find in these books. His writing style is detailed without being boring, and the whole cast for the book were apropos. I liked that it was written in the contemporary world. What regency-era fan wouldn’t want an immersive experience AND modern conveniences afterwards? The author gets regency stuff- he must have done his research, because I learned a few new things myself.
I didn’t notice until I read a few reviews that Avi is slightly on the autism spectrum, tending to spend time alone or on puzzles, (a puzzle piece being a sort of symbol for those with autism).
Avi’s has a strong, supportive family and helps the narrative smoothly. I liked that I didn’t know who the love interest was going to be from the onset, and it made me love the journey even more.
Faithful, not lustful, slow burn, sweet moments, multiple viewpoints, real-world while having a spark of fictionality, strong family
Possible triggers: talking about a parent having passed away, accidental animal harm, elderly person passing away.
Please write more, Mr. Roberts.
February 14, 2025
DNF 25%.
I think it’s really sweet that the author wrote this because his wife loves sweet romances. What an amazing thing to do! This was his first novel and so I’m sure he will get better.
I didn’t hate the first few chapters, Avi’s family were so fun and kind. I was liking the plot at the beginning, but once they got to England I knew I wasn’t going to like this.
When the guests arrived, it was too much info all at once, I think the guests could have been more slowly introduced. This felt more like an older mystery novel than a romcom. There was no finesse about it.
Then Avi did nothing the first night /day the guests were there except work on her puzzle and hide in the secret room. All her siblings were working their butts off, for her business, and she was doing a puzzle. This girl did nothing!
This wasn’t even her dream, and she didn’t like to be around strangers, so this seemed like a terrible business idea from the get go.
The biggest crime was that the FMC and MMC don’t meet until 25%. You don’t even know who the MMC is until then. This is when I gave up reading. How was I supposed to like him when he just dumped a girlfriend of 2 years on a vacation?!
I think it’s really sweet that the author wrote this because his wife loves sweet romances. What an amazing thing to do! This was his first novel and so I’m sure he will get better.
I didn’t hate the first few chapters, Avi’s family were so fun and kind. I was liking the plot at the beginning, but once they got to England I knew I wasn’t going to like this.
When the guests arrived, it was too much info all at once, I think the guests could have been more slowly introduced. This felt more like an older mystery novel than a romcom. There was no finesse about it.
Then Avi did nothing the first night /day the guests were there except work on her puzzle and hide in the secret room. All her siblings were working their butts off, for her business, and she was doing a puzzle. This girl did nothing!
This wasn’t even her dream, and she didn’t like to be around strangers, so this seemed like a terrible business idea from the get go.
The biggest crime was that the FMC and MMC don’t meet until 25%. You don’t even know who the MMC is until then. This is when I gave up reading. How was I supposed to like him when he just dumped a girlfriend of 2 years on a vacation?!
June 24, 2024
This was such a cute, faith-based, squeaky clean, romance. It wasn’t heavy handed on the Christian things, but definitely there. Some of the things that were supposed to be funny just didn’t land with me, but I also can be a bit cynical 🤨. I was like- of course a guy would think this is funny 🤣🤣🙈(apologies to the male author).
I’m writing a romcom myself and somedays my jokes land and some days I eye roll the same jokes and think- did I actually think that was funny?. Tough crowd here.
I found this to be a slow build. For the first 70% I enjoyed the book but I wasn’t hooked. Once I hit 70% I was a goner. I needed them to shut up and kiss already. I needed Ava to get her Scott and live happily ever after.
Also, I LOVED the little chapel. I could feel the solemnity and beauty of such a place. And as a horse person, naming a horse Gluestick was so wrong yet also hilarious. I mean obviously the mare was well-loved and would not ever be an actual gluestick so I was there for it.
I’m writing a romcom myself and somedays my jokes land and some days I eye roll the same jokes and think- did I actually think that was funny?. Tough crowd here.
I found this to be a slow build. For the first 70% I enjoyed the book but I wasn’t hooked. Once I hit 70% I was a goner. I needed them to shut up and kiss already. I needed Ava to get her Scott and live happily ever after.
Also, I LOVED the little chapel. I could feel the solemnity and beauty of such a place. And as a horse person, naming a horse Gluestick was so wrong yet also hilarious. I mean obviously the mare was well-loved and would not ever be an actual gluestick so I was there for it.
Read
December 17, 2024This is a kisses only contemporary romcom from a debut author. I'd seen this on Instagram and knew that the author wrote the story for his wife. I was eager to read it. I purchased my digital copy and waited until I had some time to read for myself.
I've thought about this review for a few days since finishing the book. I didn't read the blurb and so I wasn't really sure what the book was going to be about. After reading for a few days and getting to the 60 percent mark, I finally had to read the blurb. I honestly wasn't sure that I was going to be able to finish.
There were parts of this book that I really liked and then there were a couple of things that I wasn't super fond of. I don't want to give any spoilers. I am glad that I stuck with it and finished. But I just don't know how to give it a star rating. So I won't be leaving one here. I'll think about it before deciding to review on places that require stars.
I've thought about this review for a few days since finishing the book. I didn't read the blurb and so I wasn't really sure what the book was going to be about. After reading for a few days and getting to the 60 percent mark, I finally had to read the blurb. I honestly wasn't sure that I was going to be able to finish.
There were parts of this book that I really liked and then there were a couple of things that I wasn't super fond of. I don't want to give any spoilers. I am glad that I stuck with it and finished. But I just don't know how to give it a star rating. So I won't be leaving one here. I'll think about it before deciding to review on places that require stars.
May 9, 2024
I loved this book! Roberts had me captivated from the first line to the last. It was beautifully written, with multiple POVs. Don't let that put you off; they were easy to keep track of and didn't detract from the story, as can often happen.
Avi, the FMC, reminded me of a shy bookworm, but she was so much more. With a supportive cast of family members and an unexpected blessing, she comes out of her shell. Needing to guess the MMC was a fun twist, too. The slow burn and the eventual sweet kisses were the best. And, I laughed out loud so many times, especially at the antics of the two guy best friends.
Knowing that Roberts wrote this book for his wife makes it all that much more special. I'm so glad I have my paperback so I can read it again and again.
Highly recommended! I can't wait for the next one. There will be another, right, Mr. Roberts??
Avi, the FMC, reminded me of a shy bookworm, but she was so much more. With a supportive cast of family members and an unexpected blessing, she comes out of her shell. Needing to guess the MMC was a fun twist, too. The slow burn and the eventual sweet kisses were the best. And, I laughed out loud so many times, especially at the antics of the two guy best friends.
Knowing that Roberts wrote this book for his wife makes it all that much more special. I'm so glad I have my paperback so I can read it again and again.
Highly recommended! I can't wait for the next one. There will be another, right, Mr. Roberts??
May 13, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed 'Grounds for Impropriety' by Parker Roberts! The story is a blend of modern elements and Regency charm, with a cast of lovable characters that will capture your heart.
Avi, the FMC, is a standout character with a unique blend of vulnerability and sass. Her struggles to find her place and pursue her dreams are relatable and inspiring, and her immediate family's unwavering support is a wonderful aspect of the story.
Dane, the MMC, is charming with a warm and sensitive nature. His Scottish accent made him even more endearing.
This is a whimsical and romantic story is full of enjoyable elements, including amusing side characters, humorous Pride and Prejudice references, and thrilling obstacles to overcome. I'm eager to see what's next for the characters at Hawthorne Hall!
Avi, the FMC, is a standout character with a unique blend of vulnerability and sass. Her struggles to find her place and pursue her dreams are relatable and inspiring, and her immediate family's unwavering support is a wonderful aspect of the story.
Dane, the MMC, is charming with a warm and sensitive nature. His Scottish accent made him even more endearing.
This is a whimsical and romantic story is full of enjoyable elements, including amusing side characters, humorous Pride and Prejudice references, and thrilling obstacles to overcome. I'm eager to see what's next for the characters at Hawthorne Hall!
June 5, 2024
I loved this sweet, witty, humorous, and at times poignant romance! A traumatic past has left shy, introverted Avi Hawthorne with little self confidence and a strong preference for books, puzzles, and earlier times—specifically, the Regency era. With the help of Avi's quirky siblings and grandmother's will, Avi is able to live out her dream—by purchasing an English estate and creating an immersive Regency experience for paying customers. Her new venture is off to a rousing start until an annoyingly handsome guest disrupts Avi's carefully scripted experience, makes a mockery of everything Avi holds dear, and manages to charm his way past every one of her defenses. An opposites-attract, forced proximity, one horse, slow-burn, just-kisses romance. Disability rep (autism spectrum). Highly recommended!
June 6, 2024
A solid rom com with a beautiful heart
This was a fun read with a likeable cast of characters, and a good balance of humor and heart. Avi needs to come out of her shell and experience life, take chances, and embrace the real world outside of books. What better way to do than than spend her inheritance on a mansion in England and create a Victorian era-inspired resort for people to come pretend to be something they're not! This concept was fun, and I love how Roberts created unique and animated characters to populate Avi's house and allow her to see herself through their eyes. The romance starts rough, but what can you expect from such a meeting? And then it takes off, giving you a wonderful sense of the misunderstood Mr. McKinnon. I'd recommend this book to adults who enjoy romcoms, Victorian era manners and a humorous look at why then isn't really better than now.
This was a fun read with a likeable cast of characters, and a good balance of humor and heart. Avi needs to come out of her shell and experience life, take chances, and embrace the real world outside of books. What better way to do than than spend her inheritance on a mansion in England and create a Victorian era-inspired resort for people to come pretend to be something they're not! This concept was fun, and I love how Roberts created unique and animated characters to populate Avi's house and allow her to see herself through their eyes. The romance starts rough, but what can you expect from such a meeting? And then it takes off, giving you a wonderful sense of the misunderstood Mr. McKinnon. I'd recommend this book to adults who enjoy romcoms, Victorian era manners and a humorous look at why then isn't really better than now.
September 16, 2024
What a debut
I wish we could give half stars bcuz I’d give this book 4.5 ⭐️.
I started this book with more than mild surprise. Roberts’ colorful characters, especially the supporting cast, were detailed and vivid, as were the surroundings in any given scene, thus making it easy to become engrossed in the scenes and the story.
Some of the characters I really liked and a couple of them, I didn’t care for. Thomas and Jack I found annoying…I don’t care for sniveling, bawling men, especially over Jane Austen even though I ADORE Austen.
Avi, as much as I loved her, I also wanted to smack her for being so ridiculous sometimes. As for Dane, uh, yes please! What a charmer!
I do wish there was more of the romance in the story and a little less of the rest of the characters. But I still thoroughly enjoyed this excellent debut story from Roberts and look forward to seeing what else he writes in the future.
I wish we could give half stars bcuz I’d give this book 4.5 ⭐️.
I started this book with more than mild surprise. Roberts’ colorful characters, especially the supporting cast, were detailed and vivid, as were the surroundings in any given scene, thus making it easy to become engrossed in the scenes and the story.
Some of the characters I really liked and a couple of them, I didn’t care for. Thomas and Jack I found annoying…I don’t care for sniveling, bawling men, especially over Jane Austen even though I ADORE Austen.
Avi, as much as I loved her, I also wanted to smack her for being so ridiculous sometimes. As for Dane, uh, yes please! What a charmer!
I do wish there was more of the romance in the story and a little less of the rest of the characters. But I still thoroughly enjoyed this excellent debut story from Roberts and look forward to seeing what else he writes in the future.
February 8, 2025
man, I really wanted to like this book! unfortunately, this debut mostly fell flat for me. I found myself disliking the FMC more and more as the book went on. The plot felt very rushed, and the “rivals-to-lovers” romance had very little build-up, it just seemed like there was a sudden flip of a switch and boom, they were “in love”. I also had a hard time with the accented dialogue in this book. there were two characters that had Scottish accents and they were written in phonetic spelling, which distracted me and pulled me out of the story. I will say the setting was beautiful, and I liked the description of their surroundings! I know that this is the author’s first book, and writing can only go up from here! even though this book wasn’t my favorite, I am intrigued by the premise of his second book, and will be giving that one a chance!
June 6, 2024
Such a fun story!
Favorite parts:
- The guest arrivals
- The last puzzle piece
- Reading Pride and Prejudice
- Under the beech tree
- Walking by the creek
- Thomas and Jack (they had me laughing in every scene they were in!)
This was such a fun story! I loved that this book is written from a third person perspective and that we get multiple points of view. Because of that, and not having read the blurb first, I wasn't quite sure who the male love interest would be. It took a bit to get there, but after it did I loved it!
I love all of the side characters. I love the contemporary mixed with the regency period. I love the enemies to lovers between Avi and Dane, I especially love the transition from enemies to lovers!
Favorite parts:
- The guest arrivals
- The last puzzle piece
- Reading Pride and Prejudice
- Under the beech tree
- Walking by the creek
- Thomas and Jack (they had me laughing in every scene they were in!)
This was such a fun story! I loved that this book is written from a third person perspective and that we get multiple points of view. Because of that, and not having read the blurb first, I wasn't quite sure who the male love interest would be. It took a bit to get there, but after it did I loved it!
I love all of the side characters. I love the contemporary mixed with the regency period. I love the enemies to lovers between Avi and Dane, I especially love the transition from enemies to lovers!
July 8, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: kisses only
Language: clean
Absolutely loved this book! I definitely want get this for my own shelf. It was not what I expect when I picked it up but I honestly just put it on my TBR list just thinking it would be in pride and prejudice time period and not in todays time. I loved how I didn’t know who the MMC was. I loved the playful banter between all the characters. This was just such a cute sweet story that kept me smiling and laughing to myself throughout! I highly recommend this is you want a sweet story with Jane Austen vibes. Loved watching Avi’s character growth through out the book!
Spice: kisses only
Language: clean
Absolutely loved this book! I definitely want get this for my own shelf. It was not what I expect when I picked it up but I honestly just put it on my TBR list just thinking it would be in pride and prejudice time period and not in todays time. I loved how I didn’t know who the MMC was. I loved the playful banter between all the characters. This was just such a cute sweet story that kept me smiling and laughing to myself throughout! I highly recommend this is you want a sweet story with Jane Austen vibes. Loved watching Avi’s character growth through out the book!
dnf
January 20, 2025DNF at 60%
The biggest reason I didn't finish this book is because the MMC speaks in dialect and it was so hard for me to read it. I knew he was Scottish, but in my head it just kept sounding uneducated (clearly that is a problem with me and my inability to imagine the Scottish accent well) but this changed the character for me as I couldn't imagine it the way I assume the author intended. I also didn't love how fresh off another long term relationship he was when falling for the FMC and how little they seemed to interact before their dislike turned to love. But both of those are personal preferences so someone else might enjoy this book more than I did.
The biggest reason I didn't finish this book is because the MMC speaks in dialect and it was so hard for me to read it. I knew he was Scottish, but in my head it just kept sounding uneducated (clearly that is a problem with me and my inability to imagine the Scottish accent well) but this changed the character for me as I couldn't imagine it the way I assume the author intended. I also didn't love how fresh off another long term relationship he was when falling for the FMC and how little they seemed to interact before their dislike turned to love. But both of those are personal preferences so someone else might enjoy this book more than I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2025
DNF: 37%
I feel like I’ve been reading this book forever and I’m only 37% of the way through.
This book did not hit like I thought it would. I feel like everything is so unnecessarily dramatic in her mind. There’s hardly any dialogue, the women are all man hating feminists, it seems.
The MFC Is just rude to one of her guest. I don’t think she realizes that in order to run a business, you’re not going to like all your customers, that doesn’t give you the right treat them rudely.
I couldn’t finish it. I wanted to, but it’s taken me 7 days to get through 37% and I just can’t do it anymore.
I feel like I’ve been reading this book forever and I’m only 37% of the way through.
This book did not hit like I thought it would. I feel like everything is so unnecessarily dramatic in her mind. There’s hardly any dialogue, the women are all man hating feminists, it seems.
The MFC Is just rude to one of her guest. I don’t think she realizes that in order to run a business, you’re not going to like all your customers, that doesn’t give you the right treat them rudely.
I couldn’t finish it. I wanted to, but it’s taken me 7 days to get through 37% and I just can’t do it anymore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2025
This book was such a fun read and had me kicking my feet on more than one occasion!
I love the female main character and the support she has from her family as she embarks on a new adventure. The male main character is not who I expected which makes me love him even more. On paper the two do not seem to have anything in common, but neither wants to change each other, which makes their relationship even better.
The story was fun with unique characters and plot points (the puzzle piece, the buck, Irene Idessleigh, onions, Urias Alrest, a meddling Officer, Jane Austen, and so many more). I thoroughly enjoyed this read and look forward more from author Parker Roberts
I love the female main character and the support she has from her family as she embarks on a new adventure. The male main character is not who I expected which makes me love him even more. On paper the two do not seem to have anything in common, but neither wants to change each other, which makes their relationship even better.
The story was fun with unique characters and plot points (the puzzle piece, the buck, Irene Idessleigh, onions, Urias Alrest, a meddling Officer, Jane Austen, and so many more). I thoroughly enjoyed this read and look forward more from author Parker Roberts
May 13, 2024
First of all, I love how Parker wrote this book for his wife Rachel (@closeddoorromance) encompassing her favourite romance elements, I mean major husband points! And what a brilliant debut!
Parker definitely has skills in the writing department, I love his style. This is a really fun story, a slow-burn closed door romance, with the added regency glamour. Avi is such a loveable character, I love her! I was rooting for her so much and loved the family element of this book.
If you love enemies to lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract and a bit of regency thrown in, you will love this!
Parker definitely has skills in the writing department, I love his style. This is a really fun story, a slow-burn closed door romance, with the added regency glamour. Avi is such a loveable character, I love her! I was rooting for her so much and loved the family element of this book.
If you love enemies to lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract and a bit of regency thrown in, you will love this!
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