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Eton Cottage #2
Secrecy and Swooning
Book Two in the Eton Cottage Series focuses on Albert Berry and Lily Calderwood's love story.
*Reading Book One, Hostility and Heartstrings, as book two does contain spoilers for book one's ending.
Our story begins in England during the early 1800s, or as it is more commonly known,
the Regency era.
Marriage is common amongst the residents of England—love is a rarity.
Lily Calderwood was fortunate to find love during her first season. Lord Calderwood was
a kind and caring man who showered her with affection. Sadly, his health took an unexpected
turn, stealing his life a mere five years after their wedding. Since befriending her young neighbor
and, in later years, chaperoning her into London society, Lily is reunited with an old friend.
Albert Berry knew the moment he met Lily Calderwood that she was exquisite. He
searched the world, hoping to find a woman who compared to her. Unable to do so, Albert
returned to London with little hope left for finding a love match. Until one fortuitous night when
he was reunited with the woman he has never been able to forget.
Their years of friendship have evolved into a passionate devotion, with their hearts
knowing long before their minds. With no doubt of how strongly they feel for one another, the
struggle to integrate this united devotion with their individual lives has forced them to keep their
love a secret.
Will they allow others to dictate the rest of their lives or will they finally choose each
other above all else?
*Reading Book One, Hostility and Heartstrings, as book two does contain spoilers for book one's ending.
Our story begins in England during the early 1800s, or as it is more commonly known,
the Regency era.
Marriage is common amongst the residents of England—love is a rarity.
Lily Calderwood was fortunate to find love during her first season. Lord Calderwood was
a kind and caring man who showered her with affection. Sadly, his health took an unexpected
turn, stealing his life a mere five years after their wedding. Since befriending her young neighbor
and, in later years, chaperoning her into London society, Lily is reunited with an old friend.
Albert Berry knew the moment he met Lily Calderwood that she was exquisite. He
searched the world, hoping to find a woman who compared to her. Unable to do so, Albert
returned to London with little hope left for finding a love match. Until one fortuitous night when
he was reunited with the woman he has never been able to forget.
Their years of friendship have evolved into a passionate devotion, with their hearts
knowing long before their minds. With no doubt of how strongly they feel for one another, the
struggle to integrate this united devotion with their individual lives has forced them to keep their
love a secret.
Will they allow others to dictate the rest of their lives or will they finally choose each
other above all else?
- GenresHistorical
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2025
6 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
E.G. Verot
6 books29 followersE.G. Verot spends her days in the world of education but spends her nights reading, writing, and loving books of all flavors and spices. She has a TBR list longer than she cares to admit. She has been longing to share the characters from her daydreams with you for many years. She lives in the Northeast and looks forward to the winter weather all year. When she is not reading, she can be found spending time with her pets, crocheting, and enjoying her life with loved ones.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 6, 2025
A historical romance that will have you swooning! This book had me fanning myself, squealing in excitement, cheering for the MCs, booing at those who stood in the way of their love - I was that invested in the story! The MMC was a dream, and the FMC was relatable. They were perfectly matched! I particularly loved the forbidden romance aspect and the two having to be sneaky 😏 There were also love letters involved that made me wish that aspect of romancing a lady was used more nowadays. I loved this book even more than the first in the series (they each can be read as standalone), and I can't wait for the next swoon-worthy story!
I received an eARC of this book, and above is my honest review.
I received an eARC of this book, and above is my honest review.
March 1, 2025
Overall 3.25⭐️
I have to say I much enjoyed the first book more than I did this story. The plot felt very repetitive for much of the book as if it was merely these characters thoughts, opinion, and perspectives on events that had already transpired in the previous book. It didn't feel like their story but rather an extended epilogue of the first book. Or something that perhaps should've only been a novella instead of a full length novel. While this book wasn't for me it might be for you. Nevertheless, I am still looking forward to seeing what the future holds for other characters in the series someday.
I have to say I much enjoyed the first book more than I did this story. The plot felt very repetitive for much of the book as if it was merely these characters thoughts, opinion, and perspectives on events that had already transpired in the previous book. It didn't feel like their story but rather an extended epilogue of the first book. Or something that perhaps should've only been a novella instead of a full length novel. While this book wasn't for me it might be for you. Nevertheless, I am still looking forward to seeing what the future holds for other characters in the series someday.
February 28, 2025
Another hit by E.G. Verot!! This second installment of the Eton Cottage series follows the love story of Lily and Albert! The trials and longing that they endure, and the family obstacles are written so well! You will not regret reading this regency love story! Can’t wait for the next installment!!
February 18, 2025
Author E.G. Verot does it again! She wrote one of the best second chance romances that I have ever read! She brings us right back to Eton Cottage in the 2nd book of the Eton Cottage series! But this time around it is about Lady Lily and Albert! And let me tell you this couple stole the show! Lily and Albert’s love story is one of the greatest second chance romances I’ve read in a long time! Their love for each other could move mountains! They don’t let nobody or anything pull them away from each other! And I absolutely love that!
Albert is one of my ultimate favorite book boyfriends! He is protective, loving and oh my he is 🥵!
I also loved the fact we got to see more about Margo and Edward in this one! Author E.G. Verot did an exceptional job giving us different aspects of Margo and Edward! I absolutely loved the interconnection from Book 1 Hostility And Heartstrings to Book 2 Secrecy And Swooning!
Not only does Author E.G Verot write the most exceptional Main Characters her side characters are always so amazing!
Author E.G. Verot did not disappoint with the steamy scenes at all! They were 100% top notch perfection and OMG ALBERT 🔥 🥵
I honestly can’t wait to read more from Author E.G. Verot in the future! And can’t wait for Book 3 in the Eton Cottage Series!
I highly recommend this one if you love Lady Agatha Danbury and Lady Violet Bridgerton from Bridgerton then you will absolutely Love Lady Lily!!
Albert is one of my ultimate favorite book boyfriends! He is protective, loving and oh my he is 🥵!
I also loved the fact we got to see more about Margo and Edward in this one! Author E.G. Verot did an exceptional job giving us different aspects of Margo and Edward! I absolutely loved the interconnection from Book 1 Hostility And Heartstrings to Book 2 Secrecy And Swooning!
Not only does Author E.G Verot write the most exceptional Main Characters her side characters are always so amazing!
Author E.G. Verot did not disappoint with the steamy scenes at all! They were 100% top notch perfection and OMG ALBERT 🔥 🥵
I honestly can’t wait to read more from Author E.G. Verot in the future! And can’t wait for Book 3 in the Eton Cottage Series!
I highly recommend this one if you love Lady Agatha Danbury and Lady Violet Bridgerton from Bridgerton then you will absolutely Love Lady Lily!!
March 4, 2025
I’ve been dying to get my hands on Albert and Lily’s story since book one. The way they helped Margo and Eddie was wonderful and showcased how strongly they believed in love.
How could they be anything other than passionate and loyal to each other?
Their situation made even more difficult by the fact that Lily is a widow and her mother in law isn’t ready to let anyone move on form her sons death. They exchange letters and have secret meetings, that are no less romantic but much less often than either would like.
I want my man to talk to me like Albert talks to Lily. He’s so romantic and so sure of his love for her he takes risks just to catch a glimpse of her face.
And Lily! I can’t imagine mourning a man you truly loved and trying to allow yourself the grace to love again. Especially when society acts as if you shouldn’t. It’s not proper.
Fuck that.
They deserve each other and I really and truly could not stop the tears from falling. Their story is just so beautiful. The longing in itself was enough to make me sigh and swoon.
This series has hands down been one of the most romantic I have ever read in my life. Historical is not normally for me but there’s something about these characters that just continuously pull me in.
That and absolutely fantastic writing and world building. 💕
How could they be anything other than passionate and loyal to each other?
Their situation made even more difficult by the fact that Lily is a widow and her mother in law isn’t ready to let anyone move on form her sons death. They exchange letters and have secret meetings, that are no less romantic but much less often than either would like.
I want my man to talk to me like Albert talks to Lily. He’s so romantic and so sure of his love for her he takes risks just to catch a glimpse of her face.
And Lily! I can’t imagine mourning a man you truly loved and trying to allow yourself the grace to love again. Especially when society acts as if you shouldn’t. It’s not proper.
Fuck that.
They deserve each other and I really and truly could not stop the tears from falling. Their story is just so beautiful. The longing in itself was enough to make me sigh and swoon.
This series has hands down been one of the most romantic I have ever read in my life. Historical is not normally for me but there’s something about these characters that just continuously pull me in.
That and absolutely fantastic writing and world building. 💕
February 28, 2025
📕BOOK REVIEW📕
This is book 2 in the series but my first book of reading the series. Albert and Lily met at her wedding, when Albert was a young man. Now a widow, we find out that Lily and Albert have a secret relationship.
I’ve not really read many historical/ regency romances but this was a really lovely, sweet yet spicy read. If you’re looking for super spicy scenes, this book doesn’t have that but the way the author creates their attraction and need for each other, was just absolutely delicious and I was literally obsessed with Albert and Lily.
I haven’t read book 1 (and I will) but my understanding is that there are some crossovers and I enjoyed reading about the other characters and how Lily and Albert helped them. I found Lily incredibly kind and caring but also trying to fit into her role as a ‘women’ in that era, when really, all she wanted to do was be with Albert.
Albert was perfection. I found him incredibly supportive of Lily and showed her that it’s ‘always been her.’
I hope there’s another book in the series as I’m intrigued but also, since this is my second book written by the author (The Director Dilemma is just as excellent), I’ve come to love her writing style and how actually sometimes, you don’t need detailed spicy scenes to create hot romance.
🌶️🌶️/5
This is book 2 in the series but my first book of reading the series. Albert and Lily met at her wedding, when Albert was a young man. Now a widow, we find out that Lily and Albert have a secret relationship.
I’ve not really read many historical/ regency romances but this was a really lovely, sweet yet spicy read. If you’re looking for super spicy scenes, this book doesn’t have that but the way the author creates their attraction and need for each other, was just absolutely delicious and I was literally obsessed with Albert and Lily.
I haven’t read book 1 (and I will) but my understanding is that there are some crossovers and I enjoyed reading about the other characters and how Lily and Albert helped them. I found Lily incredibly kind and caring but also trying to fit into her role as a ‘women’ in that era, when really, all she wanted to do was be with Albert.
Albert was perfection. I found him incredibly supportive of Lily and showed her that it’s ‘always been her.’
I hope there’s another book in the series as I’m intrigued but also, since this is my second book written by the author (The Director Dilemma is just as excellent), I’ve come to love her writing style and how actually sometimes, you don’t need detailed spicy scenes to create hot romance.
🌶️🌶️/5
March 1, 2025
Book 2 in the Eton Cottage series (and it's spicier than the first).
.
I'm also going to let everyone know that the first part of this book revisits some scenes from the end of the previous book, but from Albert and Lillie's POV. So, if you wanted to go straight to this book you could, and you'd get essentially caught up on what happened previously. But if you want to read both books, this one will be spoilery so do read in order!
.
This book is so aptly named. There was so much secrecy and swooning happening in these pages. And so many love letters!!!! Eeep! I loved them.
.
I loved Albert and Lillie's story. Also, Albert Berry is probably one of the most green flag characters out there. He's so patient and kind and the way he takes care of Lillie is so 🥵🥵🥵
.
The journey Lillie goes on is also beautiful. From a grieving widow to a woman that understands she still deserves to be happy despite what her bitter mother-in-law would have her believe.
.
I'm just going to leave the book's dedication right here:
" To those who have felt an obligation to put the happiness of others before your own. There is nothing wrong with being considerate, but do not let it be at a cost to you. We have one chance at this life, do not forget to live it. "
.
I'm also going to let everyone know that the first part of this book revisits some scenes from the end of the previous book, but from Albert and Lillie's POV. So, if you wanted to go straight to this book you could, and you'd get essentially caught up on what happened previously. But if you want to read both books, this one will be spoilery so do read in order!
.
This book is so aptly named. There was so much secrecy and swooning happening in these pages. And so many love letters!!!! Eeep! I loved them.
.
I loved Albert and Lillie's story. Also, Albert Berry is probably one of the most green flag characters out there. He's so patient and kind and the way he takes care of Lillie is so 🥵🥵🥵
.
The journey Lillie goes on is also beautiful. From a grieving widow to a woman that understands she still deserves to be happy despite what her bitter mother-in-law would have her believe.
.
I'm just going to leave the book's dedication right here:
" To those who have felt an obligation to put the happiness of others before your own. There is nothing wrong with being considerate, but do not let it be at a cost to you. We have one chance at this life, do not forget to live it. "
February 22, 2025
I was given the opportunity to ARC read Secrecy and Swooning by E.G. Verot. This was the first Regency Era romance book that I have read and I absolutely loved it! It was amazing to see Albert and Lily's love story, and all the trials and tribulations that come with it, play out. I especially enjoyed all of the emotions I felt while reading. A book that draws me in and keeps me wanting to know the whole story is an absolute must-read to me! Highly recommend!
March 7, 2025
Albert's story is well worth the wait. This is the second book in the series.
There's more spice in this book, and I'm there for it. Albert is head over heels for Lily, and while it has to be out of sight of polite society, he doesn't hold back his feelings.
If you are a Bridgerton fan, this will be right up your street. Love, tension, spice and plenty of side characters with depth and charm.
I can't wait for the third installment to see what happens next.
There's more spice in this book, and I'm there for it. Albert is head over heels for Lily, and while it has to be out of sight of polite society, he doesn't hold back his feelings.
If you are a Bridgerton fan, this will be right up your street. Love, tension, spice and plenty of side characters with depth and charm.
I can't wait for the third installment to see what happens next.
February 16, 2025
Another great book from E. G Verot! I loved all of it. The suspense at the beginning had me hooked. Will he find him? Will she have to marry him? Wait, is this turning into a substitute groom story? I was into every minute of it.
If you love second-chance romance and forbidden love, plus a couple who won’t let anything pull them apart, this book is for you!
If you love second-chance romance and forbidden love, plus a couple who won’t let anything pull them apart, this book is for you!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews