Her pride, his prejudice, and the scandal that brought them together.
Melior means superior—at least that is what Miss Melior Kendall, niece of the Duke of Bedford, has been taught to believe. Perfection is her goal in all things, including her connections. But when she is caught alone with her brother’s best friend, a lowly baronet, instead of the wealthy marquess she’d hoped, she finds herself forced into a marriage to save her reputation. Now she must decide whether Melior means superior or to improve and be better. Especially if she wants to achieve her secret desire of having a loving union.
Sir Nathaniel Stanford fell in love with his best friend’s sister at seventeen, but since then, she’s become a cold, calculating, shell of perfection he despises. Even so, when a renowned rake traps Melior alone at a ball, he does not hesitate to run to her defense. Caught alone by several of London’s worst gossips, Nathaniel knows what he must do, but will marrying Melior be his greatest torture or fulfill his wildest fantasies?
Just when Melior and Nathaniel begin to find hope for their marriage, new information surfaces that suggests Melior’s ruin was no accident, but uncovering the person responsible may also expose secrets she would rather keep hidden. Can their budding love survive her pride, his prejudice, and a malefactor determined to remove anyone who gets in the way?
Oh my goodness! I absolutely LOVED this story! It’s so good! This a forced/arranged marriage story but with a little bit of a twist. Melior has been coached by her mother to be perfect! She can be nothing less. And must find the perfect match! Nathaniel fell in love with Melior, his friend’s sister, when they were young but she has changed and not for the good. When he finds her trapped in a room with a rotten rake trying to take advantage, Nathaniel comes to her aid. But then Melior and Nathaniel are caught together, so they are forced to wed. Things don’t start off well, will they be able to work it out and find love in the process. And what will happen when Nathaniel finds out what Melior has been keeping from him? I just adored this story! Melior is such a great character! I love how she goes from being the way her mother wants her to be back to her true self. And she isn’t the only one to grow and learn from their mistakes Nathaniel does too. Melior and Nathaniel’s romance is so beautiful and touching. I just loved it so much! I definitely recommend! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the depth of the characters, their flaws and character development. Their love story was sweet and believable. Would recommend.
This was my second book by Teah Kemp Weight. Just like Secrets a Captain Keeps (which is one of my favorite books of all time), Rescued from Betrayal became an instant favorite after just a few pages. There are many things to love about this author’s writing. The thing that stands out the most to me is how her stories give you a feeling of comfort. When reading a book by Teah Kemp Weight, you will be transported into a world that makes you laugh, smile, and just feel so comforted while reading. So much so, you won’t want the book to ever end because you won’t want to say goodbye to the story.
First, let’s talk about Melior. At first, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like her character. But as the story went on, I realized how misunderstood she was. I went from being uncertain about her to loving her character. It broke my heart how she was treated by her parents and friends. Reading how her story progressed and how she was able to find who she truly was after being told another way her whole life was touching to read.
Marriage of convenience is my favorite trope. Teah Kemp Weight outdid herself with this one! I loved reading how Melior and Nathaniel went from enemies (even though he had loved her for years) to friends to more. Their story was well-written, and I loved reading how Nathaniel helped Melior realize how wonderful of a person she truly was.
Beautiful. Comforting. Phenomenal. Outstanding. I can think of a million words to describe this comfort read. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
“There are no buts. We all make mistakes” —his lips quirked— “yours just happens to be my favorite.”
She snorted. “How can any mistake be anyone’s favorite?”
His voice grew very quiet. “Because it brought me you.”
This new series starts with an absolute bang! The new cast of characters are as diverse and as they are entertaining. I cannot wait for the rest of this series!!
One of my favorite things is how this book is witty and delightful, yet has meat for days. The characters have depth, face true challenges, and keep you coming back to see how their story ends!
Melior is the niece of a Duke; a Duke with no heir. As it stands, she must live up to her name and be superior regardless of the people, place, and time. Everything goes according to plan. Until it doesn’t.
Nate has loved his friend’s sister from afar for as long as he can remember. As he watched her turn into a creature of the ton, he couldn’t help the attraction that sizzled.
When given the chance to save her from a despicable gentleman, he acted without hesitation. Will they continue the dance with in her pride and his prejudice, or will they give love a chance?
Read this book if you like: 👓 Doting Dukes 👓 Gifted Jewels 👓 Social Schemes 👓 Living Up to One’s Name 👓 Marriage Mart 👓 Serving Others 👓 Painting Poses 👓 Saving the Unsuspecting 👓 Learning to Love
Content: strict/exacting parents, unloving home, terminal illness of a loved one, romance- kisses only.
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a delight! I laughed. I cried. I absolutely loved this book. With real and lovable characters, heartwarming romance, nuggets of wisdom, humor, and plenty of delicious drama and tension, Rescued from Betrayal was such a cozy, engrossing read that I could hardly put it down. Like it was a read-on-my-kindle-while-I’m-cooking situation, I couldn’t get enough. Though unlikable at first, I came to adore Melior and her character arc. I felt sincerely proud of her and her growth. The dynamic with Melior and her emotionally abusive parents was fascinating and heartbreaking. Nathaniel’s growth was touching as well, and together are such an example of the power of forgiveness, humility, and loyalty in a healthy relationship. And the importance of clear communication. Miscommunication tropes can be hit or miss for me (just have a conversation already!) but this did not feel that way at all. It made sense in the context. And the romance! It was so well written, the sexual tension as thick as butter. I was swooning! Teah Kemp Weight always does sweet closed door romance so well. Melior and Nathaniel are a couple I know I will think about often. This book will certainly stay with me for a while. An easy 5 stars!
I don’t know how Teah Kemp Weight does it, but even when she writes a FMC that is not very likable at the start, I somehow find myself enjoying the journey of her character even more.
Melior had been raised to be above it all, and that all also included others her mother deemed unworthy of the time and attention of a niece of a Duke of the Realm. This persona her mother drilled into her swiftly became her own personal burden and shield from the reality around her. Only allowing herself to be true once her door was closed at the end of the day, Melior was careful to not let anyone see her wearing her bluestocking spectacles or reading the books her Uncle, the Duke, had gifted her.
When her Uncle announces his intentions to remarry, the chinks in her armor start to show and her mother threatens her into a scheme that will change everything…just not as she had intended.
For Sir Nathaniel, it was a matter of unrequited love that he had been battling for sometime that brought him such joy layered with a sting he couldn’t quite get over. But when that very lady’s cries for help reach his ears at a ball, Nathaniel rushes in to sacrifice all he has to save the reputation of Melior.
Married out of necessity at first; neither Melior nor Nathaniel care to give each other grace and they fumble around their feelings and each other in order to discover that maybe this incident was an act of…fate.
—
Beautifully visual, and charmingly witty characters are delivered in droves in this newly released novel. I was highly captivated and impressed by the development of each storyline and the interwoven narrative that told of a realistic regency love. It was so good. I just cannot wait for book 2!
Rescued from betrayal by Teah Kemp Weight is the first in a new series titled ‘Harrowed hearts’. This book follows Melior Kendall who has been trained to be all that is ‘superior’ (as her name implies) by an uncaring mother but it all comes crashing down when she is rescued from a compromising situation which leads to a scandal and necessitates a marriage. Nathanial (Nate) her ‘rescuer’ has secretly admired Melior from a distance, having known each other for years, but neither really understands who the other is now they are grown. Navigating a forced marriage proves difficult at first, both misunderstanding the actions of the other, but as time goes on, they slowly begin to see each other for who they are beneath the surface. Both characters begin with flaws, but I loved the way Teah writes her characters so well and develops them so beautifully that their true selves shine through and you find yourself drawn in to their story.
Forced marriage is not usually my favourite trope but with this book, I quickly found myself enjoying the story despite the rocky beginnings of romance and the plot was full of surprising twists and turns that are often missing in this type of story as they tried to unravel the betrayal that led to the initial scandal. It was a real page turner by the end to see how things would transpire! The secondary characters were also essential to the story arc and the insight into them makes me excited to read about their stories in future books. I love a good series about friendships and this looks set to tick all the boxes of enjoyment!!
Title : “Rescued from Betrayal” Author: #TeahKempWeight September 3, 2024
Rescued from Betrayal by Teah Kemp Weight is a Regency romance that had me hooked from the first scandalous moment to the last sigh-worthy kiss. Melior Kendall, the Duke of Bedford’s niece, thinks she’s perfection personified—until she’s caught alone with her brother’s best friend, Sir Nathaniel Stanford, instead of the rich marquess she was aiming for. Cue the gasp-worthy marriage of convenience! But hold on to your bonnets, because this story isn’t just about saving face; it’s about whether Melior can save her heart and figure out that being superior might mean learning to be better (and a little less insufferable).
At first, I wanted to reach into the book and give Melior a good shake—maybe with a side of “get over yourself”—but as the pages turned, I found myself cheering for her as she traded arrogance for vulnerability. Nathaniel, bless his heart, goes from grudging duty to smoldering love in a way that made me grin like a fool. The banter, the scandal, and the sizzling tension kept me glued to the pages. With a twisty plot that throws in some unexpected secrets and plenty of laughs along the way, this book is a total delight. I devoured it in one sitting and now I’m officially in a book hangover. If you love a good enemies-to-lovers tale with a side of scandal, grab this one. 5 stars!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. #HistoricalFiction #HistoricalRomance #Romance #Regency #RegencyRomance
Melior's mother has brought her up to believe herself superior to practically everyone, and required to make the most advantageous marriage. When the family's expectations take a dive, she's pushed into endeavouring to trap a young marquess. But things go badly awry and she instead finds herself married to one of her brother's friends, a mere baronet - and long-time enemy. Nathaniel has cared for Melior for years, but she's increasingly turned into a perfect doll, with pride to match. When he's forced to marry her, will it turn out all he could ever have feared, or better than he ever dreamed?
A delightful enemies-to-lovers story with characters I soon came to care for and a satisfying ending. They've each got reasons for how they act to each other, but it takes a long time (and sometimes some outside meddling) for them to communicate enough to come to understand the other's point of view. Her mother is a real piece of work, who I could well do without (except that she's a very necessary part of Melior's background) - but her uncle is great, and as for Eddie, well, I hope he'll get his own HEA sometime. The culprit in Melior's cloakroom disaster was fairly easy to guess, but I still enjoyed seeing them all work together to unmask her. All in all, a great read with some interesting secondary characters I'm hoping get their own stories - because I'd like to see more of all of them. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I adored this. Childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers starring two flawed people just doing their best. And angst. Lots of angst and melodrama. I love it.
There are three things that disappointed: 1) Melior cries, like, every other page. Nothing wrong with crying, but it got rather repetitive. 2) The villainess is described as having "no beauty to speak of" and her appearance is emphasized often, and in a bad light, when it really isn't relevant. It's always strange to me when protagonists insist the evil woman in the story is ugly. I think it discounts the impact. She's a horrible person because of her attitude and her harmful actions, not because of her appearance, so why does the latter matter? 3) The woman bad guy is revealed and suffers for what she did, but the main characters never seem to bother with ensuring the male bad guy gets his comeuppance. Historically accurate, yes, but less than satisfying. We are left to imagine he goes about his life same as before. It's almost like the message is that marriage-minded ladies trying to trap men as a means of survival are more of a menace to society than rakes who assault women in coat closets. Again, probably a historically accurate perspective, but not ideal for this modern reader.
But overall, this is entertaining and the characters endearing. I love the friend group, the humor, the sweetness, and the complex characterizations. I'll definitely read the next books in the series when they come out!
"Rescued from Betrayal" is a beautiful and original book from author Teah Kemp Weight! The historical setting is described with clarity and detail that bring the characters and events of the story alive. I felt as if I were there! I love Melior and Nathan. They feel three-dimensional and like real people along with personalities, emotions, flaws, and personal/familial difficulties of their own. It was beautiful to see them slowly realize how wrong they've been about each other. I enjoyed seeing them slowly get to know each other's true selves and seeing them grow and change as people. The character development in this book is wonderful. The emotional depth and romantic tension is perfect, too! The speed of the plot is just right, the author's writing style feels smooth, polished, and is sparkling with beauty, wit, and emotion. The romance is sweet, swoony, and absolute perfection. This book is a book to be read slowly and savored. I didn't want this story to end and I didn't want to leave Melior and Nathan's world. I cannot recommend it highly enough! 5 stars! This author always impresses me with the high quality of her work and the beauty and emotion that is found in her stories. Love it so much!
Thank you very much to the author for the wonderful opportunity of being a part of her launch team again and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ **A Powerful Tapestry of Love, Humility, and Forgiveness**
*Rescued from Betrayal* is an exquisitely written story that reaches deep into the human heart. From the very first page, it’s clear that this is not just a tale of hardship and pain, but one of redemption, vulnerability, and the quiet strength that love can bring.
What makes this book truly stand out is how effortlessly it explores the transformative power of humility and forgiveness. The characters are layered and achingly real, carrying their wounds with raw honesty. As their emotional walls slowly begin to fall, we witness not just their growth, but the beauty that can emerge when hearts choose grace over bitterness.
The author doesn’t shy away from portraying the depth of emotion—the ache of betrayal, the fear of trust, and the fragile hope that blooms in its wake. Watching love take root in such broken ground is profoundly moving. It’s not a rushed or superficial romance; it’s a journey of two souls learning to see, understand, and accept one another completely.
It reminds us that love is strongest when it’s tested, that humility has the power to heal, and that forgiveness, though difficult, can set hearts free.
This is the first book in a new series by Teah Kemp Weight. I just loved her previous series and was very much looking forward to reading this one.
She did another fantastic job with creating characters and a world that draw you in. Melior was not a very likable character in the beginning. She was selfish, although as the story progresses the reader comes to understand more about her personality and why she is the way she is. She has a growth of character for sure. I just have a hard time if I don't connect with the main characters at the beginning of a story. And I wasn't sure how to pronounce her name. I don't like that either. LOL
But Nathaniel is a dear! I loved him. I felt he deserved much better than Melior, but he loved her and has to be respected for that.
Honestly, my issues with the book are actually a testament to the author's ability to write diverse characters. I enjoyed the plot of this book and look forward to reading more in this series.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
[4.5 stars] This is a good book, a regency romance with a focus on character growth. I struggled to like Melior’s character and felt her growth could have occurred at a faster pace, but the author does a good job of putting us in her head and explaining how she got there. Nathanial was a good character who seemed like he DIDN’T need growth so much, but it turns out he did. Kind of an inverse pride and prejudice if you will 🤓
The book is a little slow at times (as is often the case with heavy introspection), but it still held my attention. There are great secondary characters that are clearly being set up for future books in the series, and I look forward to reading their stories.
Content: There is no foul language. One punch is thrown but there is no other violence. A secondary character exchanges sexual favors with a man, but it is only mentioned and in no way described. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kissing. God is mentioned a few times, but in no real depth.
Trigger warnings: - Sickness and death of secondary characters - An emotionally manipulative and abusive mother - A scheming and heartless villain who works to destroy the reputation of several ladies
"People are like the ocean. Some days they are clear and blue. It is easy to see what lies below the surface on those good days. But other days they are murky, hiding their treasures...and their dangers. Usually it happens because they have some sort of disturbance in their life that you and I cannot see. So remember to look deeper."
This is book one of the Harrowed Hearts series and I am hooked! I love Teah Kemp Weight's writing style and depth of storytelling. She writes with humor, heart and so much wit! Her characters are flawed and relatable and they face dilemmas and challenges which they actually work through. The character growth is masterfully written.
Nathaniel is a gem. It is so easy to root for him throughout the book. However, the author's ability to weave Melior's story in such a way that she transforms from utterly unlikable to the true heroine of the story is remarkable.
I am intrigued by the glimpses we get of the group of friends this series revolves around. They are diverse and engaging characters and I can't wait to delve into each of their stories!
What a wonderful beginning to a series! Full of prejudices and pride and misunderstanding based on own insecurities and societal expectations, Melos and Nathaniel find themselves in a marriage of convenience that takes down their walls, reshapes their views, and blesses them with a chance at abiding love. The plot is fantastic, and the MCs are extremely relatable. Set in Regency, with the Ton watching, they fight emotions, expectations, own pride, and all kinds of secrets, past and present, but mostly, Melior and Nate discover a gift of forgiveness and hope that they can freely extend and receive. If you’re like me, you will enjoy seeing their love bloom.
I was given an advanced copy but was not required to leave a positive review. My opinion is all of my own, and I’m looking forward to the HEAs of the other characters introduced here.
First in a new series! What a kickoff! I absolutely LOVE this group of friends!
Nathaniel and Melior have known each other for years and well, they don’t exactly get along. But when an unfortunate event occurs resulting in Nathaniel saving Melior from ruin, they are forced to marry to ride out the scandal. Secrets. Attraction. Betrayal. Friendships. There are so many themes woven into this book! I loved the pacing, the plot, and especially the ending! Seeing Nathaniel and Melior grow as individuals and together as friends (and more) was so sweet. I really enjoyed every one of the characters in this book and am so excited to come back for more stories!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lovely story of redemption, love, and forgiveness! I love seeing broken hearts healed and happiness following. Melior and Nathaniel, attracted to each other as youths, both go down different paths and despise each other. Melior feels Nathaniel is far beneath her, but when her foolish actions, encouraged by her mother, cause her to be ruined, he steps in to save her. Melior, betrayed by those closest to her, is filled with remorse and guilt. A forced marriage leaves them on shaky ground, and it takes some time to discover each others true heart, but that path to discovery is a joy to read. I love books that tug on my heartstrings and this did exactly that! I received a complimentary ARC of this book but was not required to give a positive review.
What a wonderful story of twists and turns, betrayal and romance! Reading Regency is always like returning to an old friend, and this story was fabulous. It has one of my favorite tropes, compromise/forced marriage, but amplified with secret longing.
Melior (isn't that the BEST name?!) has always been taught that she is superior to everyone. She must be perfect, and she deserves a perfect husband with the perfect connections and the perfect title. But when future advancement is threatened with the remarriage of her uncle (a Duke!), Melior's mother talks her into a plot that goes awry and finds Melior married to her childhood friend, Sir Nathaniel.
Melior is frustrated and angered, but Nathaniel has been secretly pining after her for years. *sigh* He is a good guy, the best even, but Melior can't see it. But his goodness compared to all the other betrayals happening in her life might just make her change her mind.
This story had a lot of surprises as we worked to find the "Benedict Arnold," and Melior is able to find new friendships that she may not have without her humbling situation. This is ultimately a story of second chances and redemption in unexpected ways. It's beautiful and emotional, and I'm here for it!
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
I love this spin on a Regency romance. Forced proximity and marriage early on, was a refreshing twist to your typical romance. Which made me curious how the storyline would play out. It did not disappoint. There was drama, mystery, conniving, but also sweet friendship and romance. It definitely held my attention throughout the story. I also enjoyed the characters. Melior was always trying to be good and perfect for her mother but she kept getting knocked down (metaphorically of course). Nathaniel was the perfect gentleman that continued to get overlooked. I thought they were well written and defined. I appreciate authors that write clean wholesome romance and no cursing. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author and this series
Rescued from Betrayal is Teah Kemp Weight‘s best book yet! Melior and Nathaniel’s story is the so very sweet and so very deep all at once. There are so many gems of wisdom about what love is and how it is nurtured(my favorite quote is going in the comments!). Both come into their forced marriage with things to work through and plenty of moments of awkward (and relatable!) miscommunication, but each learns to embrace better parts of themselves and to work together to become their best selves. The side characters are just fabulous too - Melior’s brother Eddie and her uncle the Duke in particular!
Highly recommend this regency romance! Thank you to Teah Weight for the copy. All opinions are my own.
This is my favorite book that I've read from Teah Kemp Weight! This is a story about a lady who was fed lies that she HAS to be perfect. A gentleman just trying to do the right thing, however misguided his actions are. And the scandal that forces them together. There were parts of this book that had me laughing out loud. And there were parts where I wanted to shake the main characters and yell "just communicate!" But I really loved a theme in the story, that people are shaped by their environment. If Melinor hadn't been raised the way she was she wouldn't have treated people the way she did. It reiterated how you can never guess what's going on below the surface. If you love a good arranged/forced marriage trope I would HIGHLY recommend this one!
Teah never disappoints when it comes to good tension, and this book was no different! Melior is ruined when she's caught in a compromising position with a man she considers an enemy. A marriage of convenience might just sort the two of them out...so long as they can move past their differences and refrain from insulting one another. Nathaniel is sweet, and once he lets go of his presumptions about his wife, the two of them can't help but fall. I really enjoyed the growth both of these MCs experienced, and it was a great intro to a cast of new characters for the series. If you want a story with great character growth, this one is definitely for you!
This fabulous, historical, regency romance was so engaging with angst, betrayal of the worst kind and journeys of self discovery for both main characters.
The characters were well rounded, with serious and humorous scenes keeping the pace going while a mystery is finally solved and a happy conclusion is found in the epilogue!
I hope the author writes about some of the other side characters in future novels for they were endearing and fun to get to know!
Highly recommend this clean, forced to marry story and will look forward to reading more by this new to me author!
This was an Advanced Reader Copy given by the author and this is my own opinion given voluntarily.
This is the second of Teah Kemp Weight's books I've read, and she is a natural storyteller. I savored it over a few days and I loved her character arcs and redemptive moments. I'm not really a trope girl, but if I were, marriage of convenience would be at the top of my list. Plus, I'm learning I have a soft spot for characters named Nathaniel--does it seem like they're always responsible and considerate, or is it just me??
This book was so relatable to me! After reading the acknowledgements at the end and seeing the author Teah pulled from her own trauma I felt even more connected through this book! The trauma of Melior’s upbringing is so familiar to me. I was intrigued from the beginning and couldn’t put the book down. Nathaniel and Melior’s relationship was so precious to watch as they both battled their own sins and opened themselves up to each other. I hope this is not the last we see of this family!
This is an absolutely delightful and well written love story. There is so much drama, intrigue, maliciousness, gossip, a terrible childhood, ruined lives, a forced marriage ams so much more excitement and emotional issues, and plot twists that kept me entertained and engaged. The characters were complex and interesting, and some were good-hearted and others bad. I enjoyed how an accidental circumstance led to a romance that became a beautiful love. I highly recommend reading!
Oh, the intrigue of the TON and conniving women make for a good story. However, I found the grammatical errors distracting and hope the author will use a better editor in the future. Authors are to be examples of correct grammar in their writing, not using conversational English filled with errors in mistaken use of subject pronouns after a preposition instead of object pronouns.
Okay, first of all, my name is on the first page of this book, so that was already a good sign. But then...Melior really bothered me at the beginning. She had much to learn. Including that she didn't have to be the woman she was told she must be. And Nathaniel was perfect for her. I'm looking forward to seeing what ends up happening with all of their friends! *I received an ARC of this book, which in no way impacted my review*
The humbling journey these two take individually and together is beautiful. So much to overcome within themselves.
Melior has been filled with notions of superiority all her life by her mother and father. I truly felt sorry for her that she was only seen something to be used that could further their standing and not as a person to be loved just because she was their daughter.
Nathaniel has been in love with Melior since they were teenagers, but he fears she’s no longer the sweet girl she once was. He sees the pride in her every word and action.
When Nathaniel saves Melior from certain scandal, they’re forced to marry. And oh their struggles lead to the most beautifully rewarding love.
There were so many emotional moments. The layers, the depth. I was teary eyed over broken glasses. Melior and Nathaniel must overcome their pride and prejudice. As time goes on, Nathaniel begins to see the girl he loves and he begins to have hope for their marriage.
I adore Uncle Percy and his tender heart towards Melior. Such a strong and loving connection.
Along with being a brother’s best friend marriage of convenience, there is mystery and betrayal that keeps you turning the pages.
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required.