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Darnalay Castle #1
Roses in Red Wax
1820 Scotland. Amidst the smoke-choked alleys of Glasgow and the untamed beauty of the Highlands, a spellbinding tale of love and rebellion unfolds.
Jane Stuart has lost everything. Her betrothed, her ancestral castle, and her cherished orchard—her life’s work—have all been ripped away. Now, exiled and adrift in the cold fog of Glasgow, she's numb to the weight of her grief, resigned to a desolate future shrouded in loneliness and grey.
But fate has a different plan.
Percy Sommerbell is a musician, a free spirit who holds nothing but disdain for his industrialist father. But when familial duty forces Percy to travel to Scotland, he’s confronted with a painful truth—a truth that threatens to unravel the very fabric of his carefree existence. His family’s money, the fortune that funds his hedonistic enjoyment of all life’s pleasures, is generated by the suffering of children in his father's mills.
In the midst of Glasgow's smoke and shadows, Percy encounters Jane, a mysterious Highland beauty whose sad eyes and luscious curves promise both distraction from his guilt and inspiration for his music. Against all reason, Jane falls under Percy's spell. But when the mills become the first spark in a violent radical insurgency, their budding connection faces a perilous trial beyond any they could have imagined.
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First published February 28, 2023
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About the author
Louise Mayberry
7 books37 followersLouise Mayberry writes gritty, emotional historical romance that’s just as interested in the lives (and loves) of laborers and street waifs as it is earls and heiresses. She’s known for her impeccable research; immersive settings; layered, emotionally complex characters; and un-putdownable plots.
Louise lives with her family in the Upper Midwest, where she savors the summers and survives the winters. When not writing, she can be found wandering in her garden, attempting to talk her kids into eating healthy food, or curled up in a pool of sunshine with a cup of tea and a good book.
Louise lives with her family in the Upper Midwest, where she savors the summers and survives the winters. When not writing, she can be found wandering in her garden, attempting to talk her kids into eating healthy food, or curled up in a pool of sunshine with a cup of tea and a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 17, 2023
This book was yet another one to scratch my historical fiction itch. The historical fiction part was not so bad, but the romance? Kill me now. I would rant about it but since it’s a debut novel I’ll try to be civil.
Jane lives in Glasgow with her brother Cameron, a medical student. They are poor and very secretive about their background. When visiting friends Jane meets Percy, an heir to the Fulton Company that owns cotton mills in Glasgow.
What I liked about this book was the historical setting, even though I wish it had been explored more. Percy was an entitled and ignorant prick who lived off his father’s money without knowing where it was coming from. When visiting one of the mills he had an aha moment. From then on improving the working conditions was sort of on his mind but he was too passive about it for my taste and I didn’t get the closure I was hoping for when it comes to that topic.
The problem is, he was not thinking about the mills much because he was lusting after Jane… Can you imagine I was bothered by a romance plot in a book? I may have pulled a muscle rolling my eyes, it was so bad. I wanted them to come up with solutions for the mill workers, do something useful together, connect over something important - none of that, they just wanted to bang.
These two could not tell the difference between love and lust. It was almost sad how much they were mistaken. They really did not spend enough time together to even tell whether they liked each other or not, let alone love. On top of that Percy’s behavior when they first met was so incredibly inappropriate and predatory that I really can’t imagine how any woman would ever want to see him again after that. Later on he calmed down, switched to emotional blackmail and proceeded to push her until she all of a sudden realized that she loved him. Uhm WHAT? I guess if a guy is hot and rich it’s easier to love him…
The spice was okay but there are no butterflies if you’re not exactly rooting for the couple 🤷🏻♀️
All in all quite a disappointment. I’m on the fence between two and three stars but I’m afraid I have to go for 2.5 rounded down.
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jane lives in Glasgow with her brother Cameron, a medical student. They are poor and very secretive about their background. When visiting friends Jane meets Percy, an heir to the Fulton Company that owns cotton mills in Glasgow.
What I liked about this book was the historical setting, even though I wish it had been explored more. Percy was an entitled and ignorant prick who lived off his father’s money without knowing where it was coming from. When visiting one of the mills he had an aha moment. From then on improving the working conditions was sort of on his mind but he was too passive about it for my taste and I didn’t get the closure I was hoping for when it comes to that topic.
The problem is, he was not thinking about the mills much because he was lusting after Jane… Can you imagine I was bothered by a romance plot in a book? I may have pulled a muscle rolling my eyes, it was so bad. I wanted them to come up with solutions for the mill workers, do something useful together, connect over something important - none of that, they just wanted to bang.
These two could not tell the difference between love and lust. It was almost sad how much they were mistaken. They really did not spend enough time together to even tell whether they liked each other or not, let alone love. On top of that Percy’s behavior when they first met was so incredibly inappropriate and predatory that I really can’t imagine how any woman would ever want to see him again after that. Later on he calmed down, switched to emotional blackmail and proceeded to push her until she all of a sudden realized that she loved him. Uhm WHAT? I guess if a guy is hot and rich it’s easier to love him…
The spice was okay but there are no butterflies if you’re not exactly rooting for the couple 🤷🏻♀️
All in all quite a disappointment. I’m on the fence between two and three stars but I’m afraid I have to go for 2.5 rounded down.
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2023
Roses in Red Wax is set against the backdrop of the Scottish ‘Radical War’ of 1820 and the ongoing Highland Clearances and showcases the radicals and romantics alongside the capitalists and aristocrats. It’s book one in the Darnalay castle series and both a fantastic historical romance and a surprisingly good debut offering!
It’s not often that a pleasure-read echoes what I’m teaching during my day, but in this case, my entire day was spent discussing or reading about the Industrial Revolution. While my students were discussing the Child Labour Laws and learning about the inventions/inventors by day, I was reading about the oppression of the factories by night!
While I didn’t feel comfortable with the open door romance (4 full sex scenes) nor the steam level of this book, I did appreciate the historical setting. I enjoyed the historic paragraphs where the Factory Acts, the reasons behind the farmers relocating to the cities, and the steps taken to shut down the factories were discussed. The theme of grief, distrust, and greed was well explored and I loved the infusion of botany, a dungeon rescue and a title that made me think.. With the blustery chill today, I was glad to be transported to the orchards at Darnalay Castle and imagined myself picnicking on the grounds in the sunshine.
The characters were uniquely crafted! It was wonderful to have an intelligent botanist heroine and a guitar playing hero who both balanced the evil cousin and his claims to the Earldom. The characters deliberated some very real issues and their emotional angst at being caught between a rock and a hard place felt authentic. For those who love a free spirited rakehell, Percy Sommerbell will ride in on a black beauty and make you swoon. For those of us who don’t, his antics and inner thoughts will make your eyes roll and have you laughing. Regardless, he has lots on his mind and, as he works through it, his inner character is revealed. Will Jane fall for his charms? Can he crack through her hard heart and ease her sense of loss?
“I’ll never be your lover, Mr. Sommerbell, and I have no interest in being your dependent.”
I enjoyed reading to discover if Jane and Percy could put their past with all the fear and guilt behind them and move forward with a commitment to love, trust and work together.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
It’s not often that a pleasure-read echoes what I’m teaching during my day, but in this case, my entire day was spent discussing or reading about the Industrial Revolution. While my students were discussing the Child Labour Laws and learning about the inventions/inventors by day, I was reading about the oppression of the factories by night!
While I didn’t feel comfortable with the open door romance (4 full sex scenes) nor the steam level of this book, I did appreciate the historical setting. I enjoyed the historic paragraphs where the Factory Acts, the reasons behind the farmers relocating to the cities, and the steps taken to shut down the factories were discussed. The theme of grief, distrust, and greed was well explored and I loved the infusion of botany, a dungeon rescue and a title that made me think.. With the blustery chill today, I was glad to be transported to the orchards at Darnalay Castle and imagined myself picnicking on the grounds in the sunshine.
The characters were uniquely crafted! It was wonderful to have an intelligent botanist heroine and a guitar playing hero who both balanced the evil cousin and his claims to the Earldom. The characters deliberated some very real issues and their emotional angst at being caught between a rock and a hard place felt authentic. For those who love a free spirited rakehell, Percy Sommerbell will ride in on a black beauty and make you swoon. For those of us who don’t, his antics and inner thoughts will make your eyes roll and have you laughing. Regardless, he has lots on his mind and, as he works through it, his inner character is revealed. Will Jane fall for his charms? Can he crack through her hard heart and ease her sense of loss?
“I’ll never be your lover, Mr. Sommerbell, and I have no interest in being your dependent.”
I enjoyed reading to discover if Jane and Percy could put their past with all the fear and guilt behind them and move forward with a commitment to love, trust and work together.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 20, 2023
Tropes:
- A botanist heroine with a profligate rake/guitarist hero
- Young couple (in their early 20s)
- Highland settings
- North and South feel with the industrial revolution
- Class differences (hero is a cit, the heroine is the illegitimate issue of an earl)
What I liked:
- Lovely writing
- Unusual setting
- Liked the contrast between the parents. Jane, even though a bastard, grew up with loving parents. The hero, while legitimate, grew up with a loving mother but a distant father.
Things I did not quite like:
- Slow to start
- I wonder if this is historically accurate. Jane's parents married maybe around a week before their untimely demise. According to the author, under Scottish law, Jane's brother, Cameron, can be the heir to the earldom even though the parents marry after Cameron's birth.
Did I like it? Yes, I do believe the author has potential. I'd recommend this book to novice historical romance readers.
Steam factor: Mid. The love scenes are short and not explicit.
I received an eARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
- A botanist heroine with a profligate rake/guitarist hero
- Young couple (in their early 20s)
- Highland settings
- North and South feel with the industrial revolution
- Class differences (hero is a cit, the heroine is the illegitimate issue of an earl)
What I liked:
- Lovely writing
- Unusual setting
- Liked the contrast between the parents. Jane, even though a bastard, grew up with loving parents. The hero, while legitimate, grew up with a loving mother but a distant father.
Things I did not quite like:
- Slow to start
- I wonder if this is historically accurate. Jane's parents married maybe around a week before their untimely demise. According to the author, under Scottish law, Jane's brother, Cameron, can be the heir to the earldom even though the parents marry after Cameron's birth.
Did I like it? Yes, I do believe the author has potential. I'd recommend this book to novice historical romance readers.
Steam factor: Mid. The love scenes are short and not explicit.
I received an eARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 20, 2023
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 (there’s a mix of scenes but a few are on the shorter side)
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and the heroine.
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This is Louise Mayberry’s debut! Hooray!
Basic plot:
Jane has been dealt a cruel hand in life and when Percy comes in and makes her feel, she does her best to protect her heart from more pain.
Give this a try if you want:
- Scotland 1820s
- Musically inclined hero
- Botanist heroine
- epistolary – there’s a lovely section of letters written between the mains
- Heroine rescues hero
- opposites attract – our heroine is a bit closed off and reserved while the hero is a roaming free spirit
- Emotionally strong hero (hero cries)
- mix of romance, intrigue, and suspense
- well researched events and conditions of the setting/time period
- LGBT positive – a brief mention of friends that are gay
My thoughts:
What an absolutely delightful, unique, and emotional debut from Louise Mayberry!
I really fell in love with this novel. When I read the synopsis I was wondering if it would be a read that most of the focus was on the politics of the time including the mills and child labor laws and lacking on the romance. I didn’t find that AT ALL. It was the best of all the worlds – a blending of beautiful prose, heartbreaking research that created a rich back drop, and a couple that wrapped their story into my heart.
Percy is such a romantic at heart and I just adored him. His musician spirit was so special and I love how well he saw Jane’s heart from the beginning. He does suffer from the “I will never marry bug” but it’s done in a way that didn’t feel overused and I loved his head over heels tumble for Jane.
Jane is more of a prickly character with some mystery to her past at first. But I fell for Jane too and her sadness had me longing for her happily ever after so badly. I may have teared up at a part near the end when she is able to release herself from guilt that has held her heart captive and that is quite a compliment for my heart made of stone.
Some authors just make me pause and reread passages because I love the writing so much and I found this with Mayberry’s writing. So very happy to have found this new voice in the world of historical romance and can’t wait for more!
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 (there’s a mix of scenes but a few are on the shorter side)
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and the heroine.
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This is Louise Mayberry’s debut! Hooray!
Basic plot:
Jane has been dealt a cruel hand in life and when Percy comes in and makes her feel, she does her best to protect her heart from more pain.
Give this a try if you want:
- Scotland 1820s
- Musically inclined hero
- Botanist heroine
- epistolary – there’s a lovely section of letters written between the mains
- Heroine rescues hero
- opposites attract – our heroine is a bit closed off and reserved while the hero is a roaming free spirit
- Emotionally strong hero (hero cries)
- mix of romance, intrigue, and suspense
- well researched events and conditions of the setting/time period
- LGBT positive – a brief mention of friends that are gay
My thoughts:
What an absolutely delightful, unique, and emotional debut from Louise Mayberry!
I really fell in love with this novel. When I read the synopsis I was wondering if it would be a read that most of the focus was on the politics of the time including the mills and child labor laws and lacking on the romance. I didn’t find that AT ALL. It was the best of all the worlds – a blending of beautiful prose, heartbreaking research that created a rich back drop, and a couple that wrapped their story into my heart.
Percy is such a romantic at heart and I just adored him. His musician spirit was so special and I love how well he saw Jane’s heart from the beginning. He does suffer from the “I will never marry bug” but it’s done in a way that didn’t feel overused and I loved his head over heels tumble for Jane.
Jane is more of a prickly character with some mystery to her past at first. But I fell for Jane too and her sadness had me longing for her happily ever after so badly. I may have teared up at a part near the end when she is able to release herself from guilt that has held her heart captive and that is quite a compliment for my heart made of stone.
Some authors just make me pause and reread passages because I love the writing so much and I found this with Mayberry’s writing. So very happy to have found this new voice in the world of historical romance and can’t wait for more!
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
February 18, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️,5/5
This is a debut novel.
I will repeat: this is a debut novel.
My mind is blown. What a gem. This is so well researched and the complexities and depth of the characters is amazing. The setting of Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands in the 1820s is described in such detail that it feels like you are actually there.
The beginning of the book is quite slow but it introduces the setting and the world. I adored the meetcute between Percy and Jane.
As the reader we don’t know all the secrets that Jane has, but you can feel her anxiety. It keeps you guessing as what happened in the 2 years between the prologue and the start of the first chapter.
When we first meet Percy he is the embodiment of the classic historical romance (capital r) Rake.
In typical rake fashion he wants Jane and devises a plan, but that plan goes south very very fast. And in stead of doubling down, he acknowledges his behavior and they *gasp* communicate!
Both the MC’s get a lot of shitty cards dealt to them, but somehow they try to live with them and try to do better.
They quickly get to know each other and I think my favorite part of the book might be the letters they write to each other. The book flies off from there and I just had to finish it.
Read if you like:
Flawed characters that feel real
Political background settings
Lots of adventure
Characters that actually communicate and dare to share their feelings
Family intrigue
Free spirited, music loving MMC
Botanist widow FMC
Epistolary
For readers that love books by:
Courtney Milan
Mary Balogh
Evie Dunmore
One tiny tidbit:
I am only not sure about the history of sepsis and when it was discovered that people can contract it with only a small pinprick of a wound. Also if it was actually described as such in the 1820s. Although I do have to say that I don’t mind small historical inaccuracies, I mean, it’s fiction after all.
Thank you so much Louise Mayberry for contacting me to see if I was interested in reading this book as an ARC. What a way to start your writing journey and I can’t wait for Cameron’s book!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️,5/5
This is a debut novel.
I will repeat: this is a debut novel.
My mind is blown. What a gem. This is so well researched and the complexities and depth of the characters is amazing. The setting of Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands in the 1820s is described in such detail that it feels like you are actually there.
The beginning of the book is quite slow but it introduces the setting and the world. I adored the meetcute between Percy and Jane.
As the reader we don’t know all the secrets that Jane has, but you can feel her anxiety. It keeps you guessing as what happened in the 2 years between the prologue and the start of the first chapter.
When we first meet Percy he is the embodiment of the classic historical romance (capital r) Rake.
In typical rake fashion he wants Jane and devises a plan, but that plan goes south very very fast. And in stead of doubling down, he acknowledges his behavior and they *gasp* communicate!
Both the MC’s get a lot of shitty cards dealt to them, but somehow they try to live with them and try to do better.
They quickly get to know each other and I think my favorite part of the book might be the letters they write to each other. The book flies off from there and I just had to finish it.
Read if you like:
Flawed characters that feel real
Political background settings
Lots of adventure
Characters that actually communicate and dare to share their feelings
Family intrigue
Free spirited, music loving MMC
Botanist widow FMC
Epistolary
For readers that love books by:
Courtney Milan
Mary Balogh
Evie Dunmore
One tiny tidbit:
I am only not sure about the history of sepsis and when it was discovered that people can contract it with only a small pinprick of a wound. Also if it was actually described as such in the 1820s. Although I do have to say that I don’t mind small historical inaccuracies, I mean, it’s fiction after all.
Thank you so much Louise Mayberry for contacting me to see if I was interested in reading this book as an ARC. What a way to start your writing journey and I can’t wait for Cameron’s book!
May 22, 2023
Beautifully Written Historical Romance
It’s hard to believe that this is the debut novel for Louise Mayberry who has penned an achingly beautiful romance set against the backdrop of 1820 Scotland. Her lush and emotional prose evokes a tender and passionate story of two characters who avoid both love and marriage because of their personal histories. Jane Stuart’s betrothed, whom she’s loved since childhood, dies two years before the start of the main plot, and Percy Sommerbell is cautious after watching the consequences of his sister’s disastrous marriage. Jane is the illegitimate daughter of a Scottish Earl, and Percy is the son and heir to a wealthy industrialist who owns manufacturing mills in Scotland.
I grew to love both characters. Their personal growth and their coming to terms with their developing feelings are so richly rendered that I felt an ache reading the story. Despite Percy’s reservations about marriage, he begins to fall hard for Jane: “Just as soon as he thought he’d learned her, she surprised him with her devious humor, her beautiful science, her deep, secret pain”. The third-person perspective, alternating between Percy and Jane’s point-of-view, allows us to see both what they’re truly feeling, and how they each forge a path to a happy ending. I admired the skill and attention Mayberry gives to her rendering of each character. Percy, an amateur musician and composer, thinks in terms of musical elements, while Jane, an amateur botanist, thinks in terms of trees and nature. This attention to detail makes the characters unique and wholly original. Watching their passions come together is beautiful (and steamy).
While most of the story is set in Glasgow, there are some detours to the English countryside where Percy’s family lives, and to Darnalay Castle, Jane’s childhood home. Enhancing the main romantic storyline is the glimpse into the social conditions of 1820 Scotland. Percy’s father’s mills are rife with horrid working conditions, including child labourers. His coming to terms with how his family’s wealth has been acquired adds to his character development and to the story overall. Jane’s brother, Cameron, a training physician, adds another layer to our understanding of the societal difficulties for the working poor. These elements do not drag the plot down at all and truly enhance the main storyline and developing romantic relationship. This balance between the difficult theme of privilege and exploitation and the theme of romantic love is skillfully maintained and adds great depth to the novel. As a reader, I felt like I was in the hands of a talented storyteller who wasn’t going to let me drop out of the magical tapestry of the story.
The plot twists along the way, both original and compelling, lead us to an epic and wonderful conclusion. I found myself both racing and trying to slow down as the novel neared the end: I both wanted to know what was going to happen next and to savour what time remained in this wonderful, fictional world.
Roses in Red Wax is the first book of a new series. Cameron’s story comes out in March 2023, and I can’t wait to read it! Louise Mayberry is definitely a writer to watch, and I’m really looking forward to her next books!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s hard to believe that this is the debut novel for Louise Mayberry who has penned an achingly beautiful romance set against the backdrop of 1820 Scotland. Her lush and emotional prose evokes a tender and passionate story of two characters who avoid both love and marriage because of their personal histories. Jane Stuart’s betrothed, whom she’s loved since childhood, dies two years before the start of the main plot, and Percy Sommerbell is cautious after watching the consequences of his sister’s disastrous marriage. Jane is the illegitimate daughter of a Scottish Earl, and Percy is the son and heir to a wealthy industrialist who owns manufacturing mills in Scotland.
I grew to love both characters. Their personal growth and their coming to terms with their developing feelings are so richly rendered that I felt an ache reading the story. Despite Percy’s reservations about marriage, he begins to fall hard for Jane: “Just as soon as he thought he’d learned her, she surprised him with her devious humor, her beautiful science, her deep, secret pain”. The third-person perspective, alternating between Percy and Jane’s point-of-view, allows us to see both what they’re truly feeling, and how they each forge a path to a happy ending. I admired the skill and attention Mayberry gives to her rendering of each character. Percy, an amateur musician and composer, thinks in terms of musical elements, while Jane, an amateur botanist, thinks in terms of trees and nature. This attention to detail makes the characters unique and wholly original. Watching their passions come together is beautiful (and steamy).
While most of the story is set in Glasgow, there are some detours to the English countryside where Percy’s family lives, and to Darnalay Castle, Jane’s childhood home. Enhancing the main romantic storyline is the glimpse into the social conditions of 1820 Scotland. Percy’s father’s mills are rife with horrid working conditions, including child labourers. His coming to terms with how his family’s wealth has been acquired adds to his character development and to the story overall. Jane’s brother, Cameron, a training physician, adds another layer to our understanding of the societal difficulties for the working poor. These elements do not drag the plot down at all and truly enhance the main storyline and developing romantic relationship. This balance between the difficult theme of privilege and exploitation and the theme of romantic love is skillfully maintained and adds great depth to the novel. As a reader, I felt like I was in the hands of a talented storyteller who wasn’t going to let me drop out of the magical tapestry of the story.
The plot twists along the way, both original and compelling, lead us to an epic and wonderful conclusion. I found myself both racing and trying to slow down as the novel neared the end: I both wanted to know what was going to happen next and to savour what time remained in this wonderful, fictional world.
Roses in Red Wax is the first book of a new series. Cameron’s story comes out in March 2023, and I can’t wait to read it! Louise Mayberry is definitely a writer to watch, and I’m really looking forward to her next books!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 10, 2023
This is one of those reads where I look at the reviews and wonder if we read the same book. There was something predatory in Percy’s behavior toward Jane. And then it slowly gives “she doesn’t like it…until she starts to like it” vibes.
Shudder.
It’s all the worse because Jane is riddled with grief and anxiety and is in a vulnerable place.
Aside from that, there is too much telling and no showing. There’s an epistolary section that furthers their relationship so we NEVER see them do the hard work. And there’s no lead up to the change in Jane and her brother’s circumstances. The POV changed to a third act villain for a whole chapter so we got more of an info dump. Plot points and convenient solutions were thrown out at random and it just went off the rails.
Plenty of insta-lust if that’s your thing.
I received an arc from NetGalley
Shudder.
It’s all the worse because Jane is riddled with grief and anxiety and is in a vulnerable place.
Aside from that, there is too much telling and no showing. There’s an epistolary section that furthers their relationship so we NEVER see them do the hard work. And there’s no lead up to the change in Jane and her brother’s circumstances. The POV changed to a third act villain for a whole chapter so we got more of an info dump. Plot points and convenient solutions were thrown out at random and it just went off the rails.
Plenty of insta-lust if that’s your thing.
I received an arc from NetGalley
April 28, 2023
Oh my goodness, this book was everything I never knew I needed.
I can’t explain to you how refreshing it was to read Roses in Red Wax! This delightful historical romance deserves to be high up on your TBR. It’s definitely a binge read and was such a great break from the heavy fantasy I normally read. I absolutely loved the FMC Jane. In a society where gender dictated so much of what women could and could not do, Jane still managed to foster and refine her botany talents and sought out new knowledge about her science. And I just loved that quiet determination and rebellion…
I also really enjoyed/appreciated watching Jane process through her grief. When we meet her, she’s a shadow of the woman that she used to be because of a few tragic circumstances. But with the help of our free spirited MMC Percy, Jane slowly begins to shed the shell of grief and indifference and starts to blossom into a woman who can yes still acknowledge her loss, but who also learns to find joy and happiness without the guilt of feeling like she’s dishonoring the memory of all she’s lost.
The romance was also quite lovely and steamy 👀 and I enjoyed it of course, but I do think what I enjoyed most of the journey both characters went on to finally arrive at the end point together and happy.
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I can’t explain to you how refreshing it was to read Roses in Red Wax! This delightful historical romance deserves to be high up on your TBR. It’s definitely a binge read and was such a great break from the heavy fantasy I normally read. I absolutely loved the FMC Jane. In a society where gender dictated so much of what women could and could not do, Jane still managed to foster and refine her botany talents and sought out new knowledge about her science. And I just loved that quiet determination and rebellion…
I also really enjoyed/appreciated watching Jane process through her grief. When we meet her, she’s a shadow of the woman that she used to be because of a few tragic circumstances. But with the help of our free spirited MMC Percy, Jane slowly begins to shed the shell of grief and indifference and starts to blossom into a woman who can yes still acknowledge her loss, but who also learns to find joy and happiness without the guilt of feeling like she’s dishonoring the memory of all she’s lost.
The romance was also quite lovely and steamy 👀 and I enjoyed it of course, but I do think what I enjoyed most of the journey both characters went on to finally arrive at the end point together and happy.
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 30, 2023
This is the first book in an adult historical romance series, a touching tale that will stay with you long after you’ve finished ❤️
The story is set in Glasgow, which gave me all the nostalgic feelings of my time spent in Scotland. We follow the story of Jane, who after losing her betrothed and everything else she had, has become a walking shell of the person who she once was. That is, until she meets a flirtatious musician, Percy.
After his father’s terrible accident, Percy travels to Glasgow to oversee his father’s business: the mills. However Percy has no interest in such things, he much rather wander and enjoy the pleasantries of the world instead of doing business . I was pleasantly surprised by the inclusion of the different classes of this time period, specially the representation of the poverty of the working class in the mills. We had a clear visual of the hardships of the workers.
Their romance is refreshing, their dialogues so entertaining to read! I had a huge smile on my face while reading their interactions. With a beautiful & compelling writing style, this romance between a young widow and a musician made my heart flutter!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
The story is set in Glasgow, which gave me all the nostalgic feelings of my time spent in Scotland. We follow the story of Jane, who after losing her betrothed and everything else she had, has become a walking shell of the person who she once was. That is, until she meets a flirtatious musician, Percy.
After his father’s terrible accident, Percy travels to Glasgow to oversee his father’s business: the mills. However Percy has no interest in such things, he much rather wander and enjoy the pleasantries of the world instead of doing business . I was pleasantly surprised by the inclusion of the different classes of this time period, specially the representation of the poverty of the working class in the mills. We had a clear visual of the hardships of the workers.
Their romance is refreshing, their dialogues so entertaining to read! I had a huge smile on my face while reading their interactions. With a beautiful & compelling writing style, this romance between a young widow and a musician made my heart flutter!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
February 27, 2025
Roses in Red Wax (Darnalay Castle #1) by Louise Mayberry is a historical romance that I pretty quickly realized wasn't for me. The historical element was fine and Jane was a decent character, but as for the romance I wasn't rooting for either Jane or Percy at all. Percy was an extremely irritating character and I didn't get at all why Jane became interested in him. But then again I guess that's the instalust for you. Even more irritating was the part where the story switched to the villain's POV - and there really wasn't a villain so much up until then (unless you count Percy's behavior). Finally, I want to mention that the back of the book says it's "inspired by actual events". I couldn't figure out what that would be unless you're factoring in some of the background stuff going on in 1820 when it's set, so I read the historical notes at the end and discovered that it was Percy and Jane's story is very loosely based on Percy Bysshe Shelley and Mary Shelley. Now, I feel like I should have just read a nonfiction book about them and wouldn't have come out so annoyed.
April 17, 2023
This book was a little bit of a mixed bag for me, but as this is the author's debut novel, I hope to provide some constructive points from which she can grow and learn. So let's focus on the positive first.
I enjoyed this novel for the most part. I found Jane and Cameron engaging as a bonded brother and sister pair, living a less than fulfilling life in the city of Glasgow (portrayed a bit like the slums of east London), having been run off their family estate of Darnalay by their "evil" titled cousin, Michael Dunn. The pair are well-developed, and I found them easy to like. Introduce Percy - as the male romantic lead for Jane - and I wasn't quite sure of him initially (he seemed to be a cad, oily and hard to trust in the beginning). But he grows and shows a truer side of himself as the story progresses, such that by the end, I thought Jane and Percy deserved their Happily Ever After. I also enjoyed the secondary characters that Jane and Cameron knew from their childhood at Darnalay Castle - Tavish, Mrs, Brodie, Mr. MacKinnon and even the ghost of Kendric.
The story is fairly well written, and I liked her use of metaphors, but occasionally the novel had a little bit of purple prose that could have been tightened up or eliminated. Additionally, there were internal monologues that at times seemed to express the same thoughts and reservations repeatedly - am I good enough for him/her? Will he/she still want me when they see what their future can be?. etc. I noticed this more in the early sections of the novel with Jane and then later with Percy. I would encourage the author to continue to develop her own authentic writing voice because it will become stronger the more she writes.
Now - here was my absolute biggest problem with this novel - the spelling of the word whisky. The novel is set in Scotland, so I think it is safe to assume that the characters are drinking Scottish whisky. And this is a HUGE failing of the editor of this novel. The Scots are particular about their whisky (as they should be), and the amber-colored spirit that is distilled in Scotland and Canada is spelled WHISKY!!!!!! NO E. Throughout all of this novel, it is misspelled, and it irked the heck out of me, by making the novel less authentic and less well researched. Whiskey distilled in Ireland and the US is spelled with the "E". Whisky distilled in SCOTLAND and CANADA is spelled without the "E". This fact is easily found on Google and Wikipedia - so I blame her editor for not being tuned in to this difference.
I also had some difficulty with the villain in this story. It's hard to believe that he would be as dastardly as he is, that he would drive his cousins from the only home they'd ever known and want to evict the tenants from the land, but then stop when it came to possibly forcing himself on Jane. For me, he was a little soft when we actually meet him, although he had been portrayed as a harsh, unsympathetic man since the beginning of the novel, and even at the end there seems to be some question of whether he is redeemable as their last living family member.
All in all, I liked this story, and I get where the title comes from but agree it doesn't seem to relate closely to the heart of this novel. The cover is eye-catching, and I love that Percy's guitar is there at his side. It is a good first outing for this author, and I am interested to read the next story in the series, about Cameron as the new Lord Banton. Do I think it could be tighter with less flowery language? - yes. Do I think the author needs to have a serious chat with her editor about spelling in her novel? - why, yes, I do because Scottish whisky is spelled without the "E". Do I want to see what Louise Mayberry brings next to the table - yes, yes, I do.
A very solid 3.5 stars, but I have to round down to 3 stars for the misspelling of whisky.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with this free ARC. My review above represents my honest opinion of the novel, and all thoughts are my own.
I enjoyed this novel for the most part. I found Jane and Cameron engaging as a bonded brother and sister pair, living a less than fulfilling life in the city of Glasgow (portrayed a bit like the slums of east London), having been run off their family estate of Darnalay by their "evil" titled cousin, Michael Dunn. The pair are well-developed, and I found them easy to like. Introduce Percy - as the male romantic lead for Jane - and I wasn't quite sure of him initially (he seemed to be a cad, oily and hard to trust in the beginning). But he grows and shows a truer side of himself as the story progresses, such that by the end, I thought Jane and Percy deserved their Happily Ever After. I also enjoyed the secondary characters that Jane and Cameron knew from their childhood at Darnalay Castle - Tavish, Mrs, Brodie, Mr. MacKinnon and even the ghost of Kendric.
The story is fairly well written, and I liked her use of metaphors, but occasionally the novel had a little bit of purple prose that could have been tightened up or eliminated. Additionally, there were internal monologues that at times seemed to express the same thoughts and reservations repeatedly - am I good enough for him/her? Will he/she still want me when they see what their future can be?. etc. I noticed this more in the early sections of the novel with Jane and then later with Percy. I would encourage the author to continue to develop her own authentic writing voice because it will become stronger the more she writes.
Now - here was my absolute biggest problem with this novel - the spelling of the word whisky. The novel is set in Scotland, so I think it is safe to assume that the characters are drinking Scottish whisky. And this is a HUGE failing of the editor of this novel. The Scots are particular about their whisky (as they should be), and the amber-colored spirit that is distilled in Scotland and Canada is spelled WHISKY!!!!!! NO E. Throughout all of this novel, it is misspelled, and it irked the heck out of me, by making the novel less authentic and less well researched. Whiskey distilled in Ireland and the US is spelled with the "E". Whisky distilled in SCOTLAND and CANADA is spelled without the "E". This fact is easily found on Google and Wikipedia - so I blame her editor for not being tuned in to this difference.
I also had some difficulty with the villain in this story. It's hard to believe that he would be as dastardly as he is, that he would drive his cousins from the only home they'd ever known and want to evict the tenants from the land, but then stop when it came to possibly forcing himself on Jane. For me, he was a little soft when we actually meet him, although he had been portrayed as a harsh, unsympathetic man since the beginning of the novel, and even at the end there seems to be some question of whether he is redeemable as their last living family member.
All in all, I liked this story, and I get where the title comes from but agree it doesn't seem to relate closely to the heart of this novel. The cover is eye-catching, and I love that Percy's guitar is there at his side. It is a good first outing for this author, and I am interested to read the next story in the series, about Cameron as the new Lord Banton. Do I think it could be tighter with less flowery language? - yes. Do I think the author needs to have a serious chat with her editor about spelling in her novel? - why, yes, I do because Scottish whisky is spelled without the "E". Do I want to see what Louise Mayberry brings next to the table - yes, yes, I do.
A very solid 3.5 stars, but I have to round down to 3 stars for the misspelling of whisky.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with this free ARC. My review above represents my honest opinion of the novel, and all thoughts are my own.
February 14, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
🔥🔥/5
This was such a good 👏 debut 👏 novel 👏 There are themes of betrayal, family drama, acceptance of love and self, and of course a capture/daring escape scene- and what more could you want from a historical romance? "Roses in Red Wax" also brushes on the mistreatment of the workers in cotton mills, specifically the exploitation of child labor, as well as the forced exodus of the Scottish from their homes to make way for "improvements".
Jane Stuart is unsure if she can accept Percy's love after she has lost everything, her love, her home, and her apple trees that she worked so hard on. When Percy Sommerbell, a rake who unwillingly inherits his father's industrialist empire, wants a temporary dalliance with Jane to distract him from the horrible truth about his source of income, Jane finds herself reluctantly drawn to his charms. But how can Jane let herself love and be loved in return, when it feels like a betrayal of who she was? Percy wants a distraction from what weighs heavy on his mind and heart, nothing serious, but Jane has a way about her that makes him think things are not going to be as fleeting as he first planned.
Things I liked:
▪︎Jane's special interest in apples and botany
▪︎Musical vocab
▪︎The scene where Jane confronts her feelings for Percy and has that moment w/ her deceased husband and accepts that she can love again/be loved and everything is going to be okay I sobbed like a baby I was a mess 😭😭💕
▪︎Literally bought her a house- like she deserves!!
▪︎Percy actually doing something with his position of power to provide better working conditions and getting kids out of the mills
▪︎Percy's entire character arc
▪︎Kingcup yellow
As I mentioned before, this was an excellent debut novel. The pace is great, I fell in love with the characters, and ended up wanting more when I finished the book. I will obvi be rereading and finding more things that I enjoy highlighting and underlining. Thank you to the author for an eARC, all opinions are my own! You can find this book on March 3 :)
🔥🔥/5
This was such a good 👏 debut 👏 novel 👏 There are themes of betrayal, family drama, acceptance of love and self, and of course a capture/daring escape scene- and what more could you want from a historical romance? "Roses in Red Wax" also brushes on the mistreatment of the workers in cotton mills, specifically the exploitation of child labor, as well as the forced exodus of the Scottish from their homes to make way for "improvements".
Jane Stuart is unsure if she can accept Percy's love after she has lost everything, her love, her home, and her apple trees that she worked so hard on. When Percy Sommerbell, a rake who unwillingly inherits his father's industrialist empire, wants a temporary dalliance with Jane to distract him from the horrible truth about his source of income, Jane finds herself reluctantly drawn to his charms. But how can Jane let herself love and be loved in return, when it feels like a betrayal of who she was? Percy wants a distraction from what weighs heavy on his mind and heart, nothing serious, but Jane has a way about her that makes him think things are not going to be as fleeting as he first planned.
Things I liked:
▪︎Jane's special interest in apples and botany
▪︎Musical vocab
▪︎The scene where Jane confronts her feelings for Percy and has that moment w/ her deceased husband and accepts that she can love again/be loved and everything is going to be okay I sobbed like a baby I was a mess 😭😭💕
▪︎Literally bought her a house- like she deserves!!
▪︎Percy actually doing something with his position of power to provide better working conditions and getting kids out of the mills
▪︎Percy's entire character arc
▪︎Kingcup yellow
As I mentioned before, this was an excellent debut novel. The pace is great, I fell in love with the characters, and ended up wanting more when I finished the book. I will obvi be rereading and finding more things that I enjoy highlighting and underlining. Thank you to the author for an eARC, all opinions are my own! You can find this book on March 3 :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2023
Louise Mayberry’s debut Roses in Red Wax is a soft and sweet love story between the hero and heroine. Mayberry’s writing is well developed and pieces together tragedy and healing with care and time. The overall tone for the novel eases from a gentle melancholy into a place of understanding. This novel starts off a little on a slower paced side for me but really fleshes out and flows when we get to the mid point and onward. I am always interested in discovering new authors and Mayberry is definitely one I will be looking out for as she continues to grow and develop her writing style.
This romance starts in a place of instalove and poor wooing techniques from our hero as he tries to traverse the heroine’s high walls. The heroine has had a love of recent tragedies that cause her to believe she should not live her life fully and find love and comfort again. I found Mayberry’s development of the hero and heroine to be built with care and consideration to their backgrounds and she really takes the time for them to develop a true understanding of each other before their physical relationship develops. A lot of the plotting and intrigue happens in the later half of the novel, which really helped to ramp up the pacing. I also really enjoy that Mayberry takes the time for our heroine to put her past at rest before she fully embraces a new relationship with the hero, this way their feelings truly take on a lovely gravity and realness. The heroine is also able to really take matters into her own hands while not only rescuing herself but the hero.
Overall, I do believe that Louise Mayberry is an author to watch out for. If you are looking for a debut author to discover, Mayberry is a wonderful option. I am definitely looking forward to watching her writing and voice grow.
Thank you so much to Louise Mayberry for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This romance starts in a place of instalove and poor wooing techniques from our hero as he tries to traverse the heroine’s high walls. The heroine has had a love of recent tragedies that cause her to believe she should not live her life fully and find love and comfort again. I found Mayberry’s development of the hero and heroine to be built with care and consideration to their backgrounds and she really takes the time for them to develop a true understanding of each other before their physical relationship develops. A lot of the plotting and intrigue happens in the later half of the novel, which really helped to ramp up the pacing. I also really enjoy that Mayberry takes the time for our heroine to put her past at rest before she fully embraces a new relationship with the hero, this way their feelings truly take on a lovely gravity and realness. The heroine is also able to really take matters into her own hands while not only rescuing herself but the hero.
Overall, I do believe that Louise Mayberry is an author to watch out for. If you are looking for a debut author to discover, Mayberry is a wonderful option. I am definitely looking forward to watching her writing and voice grow.
Thank you so much to Louise Mayberry for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 6, 2024
In the words of Homer Simpson “BORING”
Omg I was so bored I skimmed most of the book. Musician dude has to take over Earldom after his father kicks it, something about workhouses and bad conditions and strikes. Homegirl was widowed before she was married and is a spinster living with her brother. She likes plants. They meet he wants her and she hates him. All of a sudden she’s hot for him. He becomes a prisoner when trying to get her cousin to give up his laird to her brother. Something something apples the end. Major plotlines were just rushed with stupid endings but yeah let’s focus on seed breeding and guitars. Did they even have guitars back then? I wont be reading the rest of the series.
Omg I was so bored I skimmed most of the book. Musician dude has to take over Earldom after his father kicks it, something about workhouses and bad conditions and strikes. Homegirl was widowed before she was married and is a spinster living with her brother. She likes plants. They meet he wants her and she hates him. All of a sudden she’s hot for him. He becomes a prisoner when trying to get her cousin to give up his laird to her brother. Something something apples the end. Major plotlines were just rushed with stupid endings but yeah let’s focus on seed breeding and guitars. Did they even have guitars back then? I wont be reading the rest of the series.
February 20, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I like historical fiction, so I was interested in this. At the start, it struck me as a sweet and romantic story with an unhappy protagonist, but I had a feeling it wouldn't stay that way.
The two main characters were described in a manner that made them seem attractive and alluring, and it entertained and amused me to see the chemistry building. I think a lot of readers would enjoy the anticipation of that.
It was a nicely written historical romance, with some spicy moments.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.
I like historical fiction, so I was interested in this. At the start, it struck me as a sweet and romantic story with an unhappy protagonist, but I had a feeling it wouldn't stay that way.
The two main characters were described in a manner that made them seem attractive and alluring, and it entertained and amused me to see the chemistry building. I think a lot of readers would enjoy the anticipation of that.
It was a nicely written historical romance, with some spicy moments.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.
May 24, 2025
So much pining and angst 😭
The writing is so damn beautiful and the audiobook was perfection! I loved the actual music that played anytime Percy (MMC) played his guitar..and the dialogue in duet format, while still having the main narrator with a distinct voice of their own.
But what really got me were the letters. One of my favorite micro tropes in historical romance..proclamations of love through hand written letters. 🥹 Something about the yearning in love letters just screams romance in its purest form..it had me crying like a baby.
If you’re a historical romance reader and have yet to pick this one up, I highly recommend taking the immersive reading route for the best experience!
The writing is so damn beautiful and the audiobook was perfection! I loved the actual music that played anytime Percy (MMC) played his guitar..and the dialogue in duet format, while still having the main narrator with a distinct voice of their own.
But what really got me were the letters. One of my favorite micro tropes in historical romance..proclamations of love through hand written letters. 🥹 Something about the yearning in love letters just screams romance in its purest form..it had me crying like a baby.
If you’re a historical romance reader and have yet to pick this one up, I highly recommend taking the immersive reading route for the best experience!
March 7, 2023
Historical romance at its best
The Roses in Red Wax is perfect for those who enjoy novels outside the regency ballroom. The Glasgow setting brings gravitas to the romance of Percy and Jane. The chemistry between these complex characters is palpable and thrilling. As a history lover, I enjoyed how the author seamlessly wove facts about the industrial revolution into the story—thoroughly recommended for historical fiction and romance fans.
The Roses in Red Wax is perfect for those who enjoy novels outside the regency ballroom. The Glasgow setting brings gravitas to the romance of Percy and Jane. The chemistry between these complex characters is palpable and thrilling. As a history lover, I enjoyed how the author seamlessly wove facts about the industrial revolution into the story—thoroughly recommended for historical fiction and romance fans.
October 8, 2024
This was a nice easy read to get me back into the swing of things . I thought it would have more of an historical element but that side of things was lacking . However I really liked this love story between Percy and Jane . The plot was a tad slow at times and a bit predictable ( although the trapdoor capture of Percy did catch me off guard but i loved it ) I’m glad they got together in the end and he seems genuinely in love with her , he was a likeable male lead . I liked Jane and her confidence and that she had her own hobbies and interest without being insufferable in her independence and need to be alone due to past relationships. Spice wise it was average nothing stand out to be honest . Overall though a nice little love story where I was routing for them to get together. Just wish the plot was a bit thicker with more of a historical homage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2024
I enjoyed the book. The book was a smashing good read. The writing was phenomenal. The characters were great. The storyline was exciting and engaging. I thought that the storyline was entertaining. The book moved at a pace that was comprehensive for the reader to understand what’s happening in the story. The writer did an outstanding job.
February 24, 2023
My favorite genre has always been historical romance and I'm so pleased I was able to read this debut ARC!
Set in 1820s Scotland, this romance has all the feels of a period time piece. Percy, the rake, and Jane, raised as a proper lady. Except there's more to them than just this stereotypical portrayal. She is not afraid to speak her mind, there is no miscommunication 👏🏼, the characters are open and honest about their feelings and Jane....well let's just say she's not the damsel in distress and takes matters into her own hands, and I had to scream a "Yeah, get him girl" in the middle of the night 😂. I enjoyed the mystery of her background, and it built into the suspense very well.
I received this an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set in 1820s Scotland, this romance has all the feels of a period time piece. Percy, the rake, and Jane, raised as a proper lady. Except there's more to them than just this stereotypical portrayal. She is not afraid to speak her mind, there is no miscommunication 👏🏼, the characters are open and honest about their feelings and Jane....well let's just say she's not the damsel in distress and takes matters into her own hands, and I had to scream a "Yeah, get him girl" in the middle of the night 😂. I enjoyed the mystery of her background, and it built into the suspense very well.
I received this an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2023
This was a refreshing and unique historical romance. I will say that I wish Jane and Percy had more time to get to know each other while they were together instead of through letters. I still enjoyed the story, and I was excited to see that Percy wasn't an alpha male. I love that he could be vulnerable and alpha when the situation called for it. I like that the author showed Jane as an independent woman, but not someone who was an alpha female. Roses in Red Wax is a book I would recommend.
February 27, 2023
*****5 stars!
“𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦.”
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so very much to Louise Mayberry for this opportunity!
I was very excited to start reading this book, it hooked me from the very start! This is such a beautifully written story with such a unique setting and theme. It was very easy to become engrossed with this story and each chapter left you wanting more! What first caught my attention was the setting of the story, I was delighted to find it took place in Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands, the culture really added to not only the story but the characters as well. The detail in this story was so well done, I felt instantly transported into the places this book was based on. The descriptions were so vibrant and elegant, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the writing style of this book.
The characters were all down to earth and quite relatable and real feeling. The chemistry and building tension between the characters was so perfectly written--you could practically feel the yearning between the two of them as their relationship began to bloom. Each moment they were in a scene together I found myself waiting with bated breath to see how they were going to react to one another. This story was definitely quite swoon worthy!
Jane was a character that really stood out to me in this book; I felt as if I could feel her emotions as the story went on. The way her anxiety and sorrow is written is so vivid and expressive. Her character development throughout the entirety of the story was very well done, it was so interesting to see her grow as a person from where she first started in the book. I also enjoyed her passionate nature and her charming wit.
Percy was such a tender and romantic hero in this story, at first I didn’t quite know what to make of him but I quickly fell in love with his character as he opened himself up more and displayed more of his personality and charm. I enjoyed how he expressed his emotions through his music, I felt that only added to his genuine charm as a character.
I did not expect the many wonderful twists and turns in this story, they always seemed to take me by surprise and keep me on the edge of my seat. This was a story that always kept me guessing until the very end!
This book was such an absolute delight to read and one I would highly recommend if you’re craving a swoon worthy and passionate historical romance filled with romantic tension and unexpected twists and turns! I am very much looking forward to reading the sequel to this beautiful story!
“𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦.”
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so very much to Louise Mayberry for this opportunity!
I was very excited to start reading this book, it hooked me from the very start! This is such a beautifully written story with such a unique setting and theme. It was very easy to become engrossed with this story and each chapter left you wanting more! What first caught my attention was the setting of the story, I was delighted to find it took place in Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands, the culture really added to not only the story but the characters as well. The detail in this story was so well done, I felt instantly transported into the places this book was based on. The descriptions were so vibrant and elegant, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the writing style of this book.
The characters were all down to earth and quite relatable and real feeling. The chemistry and building tension between the characters was so perfectly written--you could practically feel the yearning between the two of them as their relationship began to bloom. Each moment they were in a scene together I found myself waiting with bated breath to see how they were going to react to one another. This story was definitely quite swoon worthy!
Jane was a character that really stood out to me in this book; I felt as if I could feel her emotions as the story went on. The way her anxiety and sorrow is written is so vivid and expressive. Her character development throughout the entirety of the story was very well done, it was so interesting to see her grow as a person from where she first started in the book. I also enjoyed her passionate nature and her charming wit.
Percy was such a tender and romantic hero in this story, at first I didn’t quite know what to make of him but I quickly fell in love with his character as he opened himself up more and displayed more of his personality and charm. I enjoyed how he expressed his emotions through his music, I felt that only added to his genuine charm as a character.
I did not expect the many wonderful twists and turns in this story, they always seemed to take me by surprise and keep me on the edge of my seat. This was a story that always kept me guessing until the very end!
This book was such an absolute delight to read and one I would highly recommend if you’re craving a swoon worthy and passionate historical romance filled with romantic tension and unexpected twists and turns! I am very much looking forward to reading the sequel to this beautiful story!
March 4, 2023
Happy Release Day and #coverlustfriday
Review and Book Description is found below. ❤️ 🧜🏼♀️ ❤️
An unmarried widow. A rake seeking a muse.
Jane Stuart has lost everything, her betrothed, her ancestral castle in the Highlands, and her life’s work—the orchard where she ran her apple tree crossbreeding trials. But after a year of exile in smoke-filled Glasgow, she’s gone numb to the loss, indifferent to her lonely, grey future.
Then he comes along.
Percy Sommerbell is a musician, a free spirit who holds nothing but disdain for his industrialist father. But when familial duty forces Percy to travel to Scotland to inspect his father’s holdings, he’s confronted with an uncomfortable truth. His fortune—the money that funds his aimless wandering through all life’s pleasures—is generated by the exploitation of people, children, in his father’s spinning mills.
There’s something else in Glasgow, a mysterious Highland beauty whose sad eyes and luscious curves promise temporary distraction from his growing sense of guilt, and inspiration for his music. Against her better judgement, Jane finds herself falling for this man’s charms. But when the mills become the first spark in a violent radical insurgency, everything changes. Jane and Percy’s connection might not be as fleeting as either of them imagined.
Roses in Red Wax by Louise Mayberry
Setting:
Glasgow, Scotland 1820
Characters:
Jane
Percy
Cameron
Tropes:
Widow Heroine
Second Chance Romance
Reverse Grumpy Sunshine
Historical Romance
Goodreads:
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Spice:
🌶 🌶
Review:
Thank you so much for supplying me with this ARC. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS NOVEL. My favorite trope is widow/second chance romance. I really loved the angst between Percy and Jane. They had so much tension, and longing for one another. I devoured the book in one sitting. An aspect I enjoyed was the slight Gothic context the author employed to help the reader understand the moodiness of the characters and their relationship. I can't wait to read the next work by this debut author.
Content Warnings:
Death of loved ones
Child labor
Review and Book Description is found below. ❤️ 🧜🏼♀️ ❤️
An unmarried widow. A rake seeking a muse.
Jane Stuart has lost everything, her betrothed, her ancestral castle in the Highlands, and her life’s work—the orchard where she ran her apple tree crossbreeding trials. But after a year of exile in smoke-filled Glasgow, she’s gone numb to the loss, indifferent to her lonely, grey future.
Then he comes along.
Percy Sommerbell is a musician, a free spirit who holds nothing but disdain for his industrialist father. But when familial duty forces Percy to travel to Scotland to inspect his father’s holdings, he’s confronted with an uncomfortable truth. His fortune—the money that funds his aimless wandering through all life’s pleasures—is generated by the exploitation of people, children, in his father’s spinning mills.
There’s something else in Glasgow, a mysterious Highland beauty whose sad eyes and luscious curves promise temporary distraction from his growing sense of guilt, and inspiration for his music. Against her better judgement, Jane finds herself falling for this man’s charms. But when the mills become the first spark in a violent radical insurgency, everything changes. Jane and Percy’s connection might not be as fleeting as either of them imagined.
Roses in Red Wax by Louise Mayberry
Setting:
Glasgow, Scotland 1820
Characters:
Jane
Percy
Cameron
Tropes:
Widow Heroine
Second Chance Romance
Reverse Grumpy Sunshine
Historical Romance
Goodreads:
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Spice:
🌶 🌶
Review:
Thank you so much for supplying me with this ARC. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS NOVEL. My favorite trope is widow/second chance romance. I really loved the angst between Percy and Jane. They had so much tension, and longing for one another. I devoured the book in one sitting. An aspect I enjoyed was the slight Gothic context the author employed to help the reader understand the moodiness of the characters and their relationship. I can't wait to read the next work by this debut author.
Content Warnings:
Death of loved ones
Child labor
April 14, 2023
[Less of a review and more of verbal processing. Probably light spoilers?] So I binged the end of this at 3 am. Because it took a TURN. 🤩
God, I flipping loved this book. Loveable twat Percy rolls into Glasgow hoping to get some family obligations out of the way and falls flat on his face for Jane, who is trying very hard to punish herself with obscurity forever (because that's grief for you). Both characters are richly complex with skills and interests and fleshed out pasts that impact the story and move it forward. My favorite part of the first third is when Percy tours his father's factory and has to face where all his money for raking comes from. Louise Mayberry doesn't flinch away from the trauma and violence of inhumane labor practices of the era and Percy has to transform himself lest he remain a heinous hypocrite.
There are sort of three main arcs in this book that all give an homage to the historical period. The first gives me serious North and South vibes, with the factory and labor unrest and the grey industrial city. The second is only a chapter or two, but it's epistolary and the language in the letters nods to Regency era sensibility writing in the best way. The third is a vibey gothic castle plot that goes full banana in the Best Way.
For me, it was so refreshing to read about people who live in the past like it's normal. The book is well grounded in research and culture and is consistent with that throughout. I especially appreciated the attention to garments. There's bonnets and linen chemises and a perfectly logical reason to forego stays (they're called stays too, so bonus points for that!!) -- I am delighted by the rare novel that doesn't pull me out of a steamy scene with outrageously inaccurate underwear.
So, if you like:
- a grounded historical setting that doesn't shy away from the unglamorous inequality of capitalism (and a heroine who actually wears a bonnet)
- a cocky egotist humbled by coming face to face with his privilege (and actually doing something to level the playing field)
- thigh-clenching steam that makes you seriously question your decision to read on the bus
... than you should read Roses in Red Wax.
God, I flipping loved this book. Loveable twat Percy rolls into Glasgow hoping to get some family obligations out of the way and falls flat on his face for Jane, who is trying very hard to punish herself with obscurity forever (because that's grief for you). Both characters are richly complex with skills and interests and fleshed out pasts that impact the story and move it forward. My favorite part of the first third is when Percy tours his father's factory and has to face where all his money for raking comes from. Louise Mayberry doesn't flinch away from the trauma and violence of inhumane labor practices of the era and Percy has to transform himself lest he remain a heinous hypocrite.
There are sort of three main arcs in this book that all give an homage to the historical period. The first gives me serious North and South vibes, with the factory and labor unrest and the grey industrial city. The second is only a chapter or two, but it's epistolary and the language in the letters nods to Regency era sensibility writing in the best way. The third is a vibey gothic castle plot that goes full banana in the Best Way.
For me, it was so refreshing to read about people who live in the past like it's normal. The book is well grounded in research and culture and is consistent with that throughout. I especially appreciated the attention to garments. There's bonnets and linen chemises and a perfectly logical reason to forego stays (they're called stays too, so bonus points for that!!) -- I am delighted by the rare novel that doesn't pull me out of a steamy scene with outrageously inaccurate underwear.
So, if you like:
- a grounded historical setting that doesn't shy away from the unglamorous inequality of capitalism (and a heroine who actually wears a bonnet)
- a cocky egotist humbled by coming face to face with his privilege (and actually doing something to level the playing field)
- thigh-clenching steam that makes you seriously question your decision to read on the bus
... than you should read Roses in Red Wax.
February 19, 2023
Roses in Red Wax is a wonderful read.
The story begins with Jane and Cameron Stuart living in exile in Glasgow, Scotland.
Jane meets Percy, a rogue musician/socialite, and develops an immediate distaste for him. Percy, on the other hand develops an immediate attraction to Jane. Percy battles personal demons, but winning the affections of Jane becomes his primary goal in life, or at least his life in this story.
Jane and Cameron discover that their exile may have been the result of a fraudulent claim made by a scoundrel cousin. Jane, Cameron, Percy and a small cast of characters struggle to reclaim the lost inheritance.
Three aspects of this novel stand out as evidence the author understands and has strong affection for the period.
- First, the language and dialog are spot on.
- Second, the scenery and setting are developed in a way that guides the reader to envisage, smell,
and feel nineteenth century Scotland as if it waits to greet them outside the front door.
- Third, the author wove the story into a very turbulent period of Scottish history--not heavy-
handed yet authentic. Nicely done.
Adding to the conflict and tension and building a robust storyline, Jane has an affection for botany. Percy inherits factories which traffic in child labor. He struggles to right this wrong. These side pursuits add to the character development and don't distract from the main thrust of the story, after all, this is a romance novel.
Parts of the story are slow, but are effective to set the stage for the steamier pages. Those pages are indeed steamy, but not overdone or distasteful. The pace is not full on action, and I don't remember a single special effects explosion. I do remember the emotional roller coaster ride that begins and ends on the level, but pushes through a couple loop-de-loops in between.
In the end, Roses in Red Wax is a thoroughly enjoyable read and well worth the investment of time and treasure.
The story begins with Jane and Cameron Stuart living in exile in Glasgow, Scotland.
Jane meets Percy, a rogue musician/socialite, and develops an immediate distaste for him. Percy, on the other hand develops an immediate attraction to Jane. Percy battles personal demons, but winning the affections of Jane becomes his primary goal in life, or at least his life in this story.
Jane and Cameron discover that their exile may have been the result of a fraudulent claim made by a scoundrel cousin. Jane, Cameron, Percy and a small cast of characters struggle to reclaim the lost inheritance.
Three aspects of this novel stand out as evidence the author understands and has strong affection for the period.
- First, the language and dialog are spot on.
- Second, the scenery and setting are developed in a way that guides the reader to envisage, smell,
and feel nineteenth century Scotland as if it waits to greet them outside the front door.
- Third, the author wove the story into a very turbulent period of Scottish history--not heavy-
handed yet authentic. Nicely done.
Adding to the conflict and tension and building a robust storyline, Jane has an affection for botany. Percy inherits factories which traffic in child labor. He struggles to right this wrong. These side pursuits add to the character development and don't distract from the main thrust of the story, after all, this is a romance novel.
Parts of the story are slow, but are effective to set the stage for the steamier pages. Those pages are indeed steamy, but not overdone or distasteful. The pace is not full on action, and I don't remember a single special effects explosion. I do remember the emotional roller coaster ride that begins and ends on the level, but pushes through a couple loop-de-loops in between.
In the end, Roses in Red Wax is a thoroughly enjoyable read and well worth the investment of time and treasure.
February 24, 2023
Roses in Red Wax is at once deeply romantic and deeply historical, and, in this sense, fully delivers on the promise of the historical romance genre. The articulation between the tumultuous era in which the story unfolds and the emotional landscape of the main characters, Jane and Percy, sets this book apart.
This is a love story about two people jarred from their respective emotional stasis. Jane is satisfied to grieve over her lost fiancé; Percy is satisfied at the prospect of a hedonistic Mediterranean existence. They meet one another, and uncertainty arises about what they know of themselves. The society in which they live likewise finds itself uncertain about itself in the wake of economic upheaval brought on by modern industrialization. What does it mean to work? To be a laborer? Farmer? Child? Manufacturer? What are the basic rights of a human being?
These are heavy questions a romance author might shy away from. Mayberry does not. She traces the ways society addresses its uncertainties just as she presents how her characters address theirs.
Unusual for me in this book is how much I liked the main characters from the onset. So much so, that as I was reading and expecting character arcs and personal development, I was also kinda hoping they wouldn’t change all that much. I just wanted them to be happy and with one another forever. Fortunately, this is a romance.
I love so many things about the writing. Two of them I’ll mention. First, the passages of description are really page-turning. And I pretty much never say that about description. Second, I love how the main character, Jane, switches speech registers, her manner of speaking, when she is speaking to her brother and when she is speaking to Percy. That device tells us so much about Jane and about the world in which she lives.
This book is not a Kit Kat, it’s an exquisite truffle from the hands of a master chocolatier. Decadent, nuanced, surprising, and unforgettable.
This is a love story about two people jarred from their respective emotional stasis. Jane is satisfied to grieve over her lost fiancé; Percy is satisfied at the prospect of a hedonistic Mediterranean existence. They meet one another, and uncertainty arises about what they know of themselves. The society in which they live likewise finds itself uncertain about itself in the wake of economic upheaval brought on by modern industrialization. What does it mean to work? To be a laborer? Farmer? Child? Manufacturer? What are the basic rights of a human being?
These are heavy questions a romance author might shy away from. Mayberry does not. She traces the ways society addresses its uncertainties just as she presents how her characters address theirs.
Unusual for me in this book is how much I liked the main characters from the onset. So much so, that as I was reading and expecting character arcs and personal development, I was also kinda hoping they wouldn’t change all that much. I just wanted them to be happy and with one another forever. Fortunately, this is a romance.
I love so many things about the writing. Two of them I’ll mention. First, the passages of description are really page-turning. And I pretty much never say that about description. Second, I love how the main character, Jane, switches speech registers, her manner of speaking, when she is speaking to her brother and when she is speaking to Percy. That device tells us so much about Jane and about the world in which she lives.
This book is not a Kit Kat, it’s an exquisite truffle from the hands of a master chocolatier. Decadent, nuanced, surprising, and unforgettable.
March 3, 2023
So beautifully written piece of work!
This is a debut novel for Louise Mayberry and she swept us away for a beautiful romance set of 1820 Scotland. She evokes a tender and passionate story of two characters who avoid both love and marriage because of their personal histories. Jane Stuart’s betrothed, whom she’s loved since childhood, dies two years ago and Percy Sommerbell is cautious after watching the consequences of his sister’s disastrous marriage. Jane is the illegitimate daughter of a Scottish Earl, and Percy is the son and heir to a wealthy industrialist who owns manufacturing mills in Scotland.
I started to love Percy. Despite his ideas about marriage, he begins to fall hard for Jane. The third-person perspective allows us to see what Jane and Percy truly feels about each other. I admired the skill and attention Mayberry gives to each character. Percy, an amateur musician and composer, Jane, an amateur botanist. This details makes the characters unique and wholly original.
While most of the story is set in Glasgow, there are some detours to the English countryside where Percy’s family lives, and to Darnalay Castle, Jane’s childhood home. Percy’s father’s mills are rife with horrid working conditions, including child labourers. His coming to terms with how his family’s wealth has been acquired adds to his character development and to the story overall. Jane’s brother, Cameron, a training physician, adds another layer to our understanding of the difficulties on that era.
The plot twists along the way, both original and compelling, lead us to an epic and wonderful conclusion. Thank you Louise Mayberry for the advance reading copy.
This is a debut novel for Louise Mayberry and she swept us away for a beautiful romance set of 1820 Scotland. She evokes a tender and passionate story of two characters who avoid both love and marriage because of their personal histories. Jane Stuart’s betrothed, whom she’s loved since childhood, dies two years ago and Percy Sommerbell is cautious after watching the consequences of his sister’s disastrous marriage. Jane is the illegitimate daughter of a Scottish Earl, and Percy is the son and heir to a wealthy industrialist who owns manufacturing mills in Scotland.
I started to love Percy. Despite his ideas about marriage, he begins to fall hard for Jane. The third-person perspective allows us to see what Jane and Percy truly feels about each other. I admired the skill and attention Mayberry gives to each character. Percy, an amateur musician and composer, Jane, an amateur botanist. This details makes the characters unique and wholly original.
While most of the story is set in Glasgow, there are some detours to the English countryside where Percy’s family lives, and to Darnalay Castle, Jane’s childhood home. Percy’s father’s mills are rife with horrid working conditions, including child labourers. His coming to terms with how his family’s wealth has been acquired adds to his character development and to the story overall. Jane’s brother, Cameron, a training physician, adds another layer to our understanding of the difficulties on that era.
The plot twists along the way, both original and compelling, lead us to an epic and wonderful conclusion. Thank you Louise Mayberry for the advance reading copy.
April 28, 2023
ROSES IN RED WAX was such a fun read! The antagonistic banter between the protagonists had me devouring pages, making this the perfect book to read if you’re in the mood for something quick, entertaining and romantic in the historical romance genre.
The story is set in 1800s Scotland, and the author did a great job evoking the atmosphere of the time through dialogues and the descriptions of Scotland’s natural beauty, but also the horrors of industrialism. It was literally heartbreaking to read about the realities of the mills, especially the mutilations the children suffered, and I was very happy to see Percy’s inner turmoil on the matter and his willingness to work on change.
My favorite part of the book, however, was definitely the characters and the romance! I adored Percy and Jane, both as individuals and together! Percy is a hurricane of flirtation and rakish appeal, while Jane is the sweetest of girls who has known too much pain too soon. His immediate interest in her and her refusal to submit to his charms created such a fun dynamic, and I was grinning like a fool at their fun banter. I do think I would have liked a little bit of a slower burn to see some scenes where the two really got to know one another before falling in love, but I appreciated the relationship regardless of this. The spice was also excellent! (I’d say it’s a 2/5 on the spice meter).
The sequel is going to follow Cam, Jane’s brother, who was a favorite for me among the secondary characters! I cannot wait to see what the author has in store for him.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
The story is set in 1800s Scotland, and the author did a great job evoking the atmosphere of the time through dialogues and the descriptions of Scotland’s natural beauty, but also the horrors of industrialism. It was literally heartbreaking to read about the realities of the mills, especially the mutilations the children suffered, and I was very happy to see Percy’s inner turmoil on the matter and his willingness to work on change.
My favorite part of the book, however, was definitely the characters and the romance! I adored Percy and Jane, both as individuals and together! Percy is a hurricane of flirtation and rakish appeal, while Jane is the sweetest of girls who has known too much pain too soon. His immediate interest in her and her refusal to submit to his charms created such a fun dynamic, and I was grinning like a fool at their fun banter. I do think I would have liked a little bit of a slower burn to see some scenes where the two really got to know one another before falling in love, but I appreciated the relationship regardless of this. The spice was also excellent! (I’d say it’s a 2/5 on the spice meter).
The sequel is going to follow Cam, Jane’s brother, who was a favorite for me among the secondary characters! I cannot wait to see what the author has in store for him.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
March 9, 2023
I believe this to be the author’s first published work. It has definitely sparked my enthusiasm for more. It had the right elements of informing me of both main characters’ dilemmas, persuading me to keep reading, and entertained me with the beauty of Scotland. The small amount of steamy scenes were tasteful and necessary.
Both Jane and Percy suffer from loss. Jane has lost her parents to a tragic accident and tries to continue on looking out for her brother Cameron who is studying to become a doctor. Jane has had a long-time love of botany and hates having had to leave their castle where she has tended to the apple orchards there. While visiting her friends, the Sommersbys, Jane is attracted to their nephew, Percy. It is mutual, however, Jane feels guilt about the death of her fiancé.
Percy is the son of an industrialist and is happy to travel and play his guitar. Soon the intrigue begins with his disappearance.
The way the author weaves music into the book is fascinating. Jane becomes Percy’s muse. His guitar playing moves her and she shares her secrets with him.
“Listen to the music I play tonight. Know that I play only for you.”
Ms Mayberry skillfully includes one of the horror of the times—-industrial mills and the terrible work conditions. Percy is able to recognize that he might be able to change these tragic health and safety concerns.
I thoroughly enjoyed Roses in Red Wax and anxiously anticipating Book 2.
I received a free copy of the book in advance and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Both Jane and Percy suffer from loss. Jane has lost her parents to a tragic accident and tries to continue on looking out for her brother Cameron who is studying to become a doctor. Jane has had a long-time love of botany and hates having had to leave their castle where she has tended to the apple orchards there. While visiting her friends, the Sommersbys, Jane is attracted to their nephew, Percy. It is mutual, however, Jane feels guilt about the death of her fiancé.
Percy is the son of an industrialist and is happy to travel and play his guitar. Soon the intrigue begins with his disappearance.
The way the author weaves music into the book is fascinating. Jane becomes Percy’s muse. His guitar playing moves her and she shares her secrets with him.
“Listen to the music I play tonight. Know that I play only for you.”
Ms Mayberry skillfully includes one of the horror of the times—-industrial mills and the terrible work conditions. Percy is able to recognize that he might be able to change these tragic health and safety concerns.
I thoroughly enjoyed Roses in Red Wax and anxiously anticipating Book 2.
I received a free copy of the book in advance and am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 8, 2023
🌹 Roses in Red Wax🌹by Louise Mayberry.
*Thank you to the author for the e-ARC, all opinions are my own.*
Jane Stuart has lost everything, her ancestral home in the Scottish Highlands and the man she'd loved since he was a boy. Though she and her brother Cameron were high born, they were born "on the wrong side of the blanket". After hardship fell upon them, they escaped to the city of Glasgow.
Percy Sommerbell is a free spirited musician who was supposed to be en route to sunny Greece. When familial duty calls, he's forced to travel to Glasgow to inspect his industrialist father's holdings. On a visit with his aunt, he meets Jane Stuart and is immediately smitten with her but she wants nothing to do with the irresponsible rake.
Percy has to face some damning truths. All the wealth and privilege he's grown accustomed to has all been gained on the backs of exploited workers at his fathers' mills. He can no longer ignore the ugly truths while at the same time reaping its benefits.
.
.
This was an enjoyable and unique read. I liked that this book shed light on dark moments in Britain's history - exploitation of factory workers, child labour and the Irish & Scottish being left poor and evicted from their ancestral homes. We don't see these topics addressed a whole lot in historical romances so I appreciated that.
I loved Jane's deep passion for botany and Percy's love for music! I enjoyed the journey these characters went on with Jane finding herself again and Percy working to bring about reform in his father's mills, in the end finding love and trust together.
"His kiss was like being dropped in the middle of a vast wilderness of mountains and trees, rivers and lochs, and knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that you could never, ever escape."
*Thank you to the author for the e-ARC, all opinions are my own.*
Jane Stuart has lost everything, her ancestral home in the Scottish Highlands and the man she'd loved since he was a boy. Though she and her brother Cameron were high born, they were born "on the wrong side of the blanket". After hardship fell upon them, they escaped to the city of Glasgow.
Percy Sommerbell is a free spirited musician who was supposed to be en route to sunny Greece. When familial duty calls, he's forced to travel to Glasgow to inspect his industrialist father's holdings. On a visit with his aunt, he meets Jane Stuart and is immediately smitten with her but she wants nothing to do with the irresponsible rake.
Percy has to face some damning truths. All the wealth and privilege he's grown accustomed to has all been gained on the backs of exploited workers at his fathers' mills. He can no longer ignore the ugly truths while at the same time reaping its benefits.
.
.
This was an enjoyable and unique read. I liked that this book shed light on dark moments in Britain's history - exploitation of factory workers, child labour and the Irish & Scottish being left poor and evicted from their ancestral homes. We don't see these topics addressed a whole lot in historical romances so I appreciated that.
I loved Jane's deep passion for botany and Percy's love for music! I enjoyed the journey these characters went on with Jane finding herself again and Percy working to bring about reform in his father's mills, in the end finding love and trust together.
"His kiss was like being dropped in the middle of a vast wilderness of mountains and trees, rivers and lochs, and knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that you could never, ever escape."
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